The arrival of Shining Armor had been a shock to everyone, even Samson. Of course he understood when he saw the Ghost – who called herself “Aegis” – but even then, it was still surprising to see someone you actually saw die walk back in through the front doors as though it had never happened. However, the equines in the meeting room-turned-war room were absolutely baffled by the turn of events so Samson had taken it upon himself to explain everything.

“So, nopony knows how these… Ghosts… choose their Guardians, only that they do?” Star Swirl asked.

“Well… I didn’t exactly choose, it’s more like…” Aegis paused, her optic wandering sightlessly as she tried to find the words before settling back on the archmage. “We see them and we just know. I’m not exactly sure how to describe the feeling.”

“How curious…” Star Swirl mumbled in response. “I had thought the current state of Equestria to be far and away beyond my understanding, but for there to be something out amongst the cosmos capable of instilling machines not just with souls, but the capability to breathe life unto the deceased? I shudder to think that something so advanced exists anywhere, let alone within safe travel distance.”

“Wouldn’t call the journey ‘safe’, Star Swirl.” Gospel piped up. “Our ship may not be as hodge-podge as the Fallen’s ketch, but it can be considered a miracle that a relatively untested ship was able to make the trip.”

“We’re lucky you made it.” Shining Armor stated, hoping to change the subject. “Without you three, we might not have escaped the Crystal Empire.”

“’Lucky’?” Samson repeated, cocking an eyeplate at the Guardian Prince. “If you hadn’t held the Vex up in the center of the city, there might not have been anyone left to save. It was your training and-”

“Oh yes, let’s all have a nice, big circle jerk why don’t we?” Gauge stated in a manner not unlike Aveline’s Ghost. “I mean, clearly there isn’t an imminent Vex attack about to happen or anything.”

Samson gave Gauge a surprised look while Chrysalis gave a snicker and Shining Armor and Gospel looked away bashfully.

“I may yet to grow to like these ‘Ghosts’.” Chrysalis remarked wryly.

“I… fear I may have missed the meaning of your turn of phrase, but somehow I find I do not wish to know.” Star Swirl said.

“Y-Yes… I almost forgot.” Shining Armor said with a cough and then composed himself. “Aegis and I managed to escape the city after she revived me, but we were pursued by this thing. Not sure what it is, but it was tough and determined.”

“I didn’t get much, but what I got, I shared with Scripture and Gauge.” Aegis stated. “Apparently this particular Vex collective was attempting to… ‘recreate’ the Guardians resurrected by us Ghosts.” Aegis looked at the Vex corpse on the table. “This one was designated as what they called a ‘stalker’ unit. There’s two more; one you already fought and destroyed in the evacuation and the other… I’m not sure.”

“We don’t have time to play the guessing game about what the Vex is making. Right now the clear and present threat is this upcoming attack.” Daring Do stated and Aegis nodded.

“Yes, of course.” She replied and turned back to the table, this time toward the map set away from the Vex corpse. “Now we don’t really know if the Vex are actually planning some kind of assault, but apparently they’re being gathered in their stronghold – a place they call the ‘Quartz Arbitrarium’.”

“We can’t afford to think they’re moving for anything less than an offensive on another part of Equestria.” Shining Armor stated. “If we only knew where this stronghold is, we could plan our defense accordingly.” This time it was Gospel’s turn to approach the map.

“Actually, we might just know.” He said. “Ikora Rey – the Warlock mentor and representative in the Vanguard – is always going on and on about the Vex. She’s fascinated by them and is always poring over records recovered from Venus and Mars, as well as Guardian reports on Vex troop movements; she probably knows more than anyone else about how the Vex operate.”

“While this Ikora Rey sounds like quite an interesting individual…” Chrysalis said dryly. “Perhaps you should explain your point instead of giving the autobiography.”

“And perhaps you should shut up and let me finish, Bug Queen.” Gospel sniped back and Chrysalis gave him an icy glare in response. “Anyway, as I was explaining before I was interrupted, Ikora Rey would talk to me about the Vex during the downtime between sorties. She said that despite their ability to teleport long distances, they still had to come from somewhere if they needed to attack in large numbers.” He jabbed a finger onto the map, planting it on the Crystal Empire. “The Vex attacked here first, probably as retaliation and an attempt to retrieve Star Swirl so we can assume that the Quartz Arbitrarium is somewhere around the Crystal Empire. If I’m correct, that means the Vex are going to attack us from the north, if at all.”

Daring Do’s eyes lit up.

“These strongholds… got lots of geometric shapes, perfect lines, glowing lights?” She asked and every pair of eyes looked at her.

“Uh… yeah.” Gospel replied, and then his eyes widened. “Wait, you found it?!”

Daring Do propped herself up on the table and used a forehoof to move Gospel’s finger towards the mountains just north of the city.

“My team went up to these mountains to investigate some ruins up there.” She said. “That’s where we found the mechanism that opened the way inside. After that… well, let’s just say things went horseapples.”

“Oh right… I read some old Bolt-knight reports that said something about a squad getting attacked in those mountains.” Shining Armor said. “Apparently even the Yaks of Yakyakistan won’t go near those mountains; they think it’s cursed and anypony who’s ever gone up never came back. Guess now we know why…”

“Well, the Vex definitely don’t like…” Scripture began, but then his optic flickered as though he blinked and he stared at Shining Armor. “Did… did you just say Yak… yak… istan?”

Shining Armor returned the stare questioningly.

“Um… yes?” He replied.

“And it’s populated by… Yaks… as in large, shaggy bovids?”

“You know about them?” Shining Armor asked, curious, and Scripture drooped, his optic winking out and he gave a mechanical sigh. Shining Armor gave him a worried stare. “Is something wrong, Scripture?”

“I-It’s nothing.” Scripture replied quickly. “As I was saying, the Vex generally don’t like intruders. Well, they generally don’t like anyone and pretty much shoot-on-sight, but they aren’t known for going on the offensive.”

“Unless they want something or they feel something’s a threat.” Samson said. “If the Vex are planning some kind of attack, it must mean that they feel threatened and they intend to remove that threat.”

Chrysalis gave a smirk and looked at the Vex on the table.

“I understand now… they fear us.” She stated as she lifted a hoof and softly caressed the machine’s broken head. “They fear that we can stop them – perhaps even slay them – so they wish to eliminate that fear.” Her pocked hoof rested on the side of the Vex’s dim optic as it became enveloped in an acid green aura and after a moment, the optic crumpled, causing the glass-like substance within to shatter. Chrysalis’ smirk turned into a malevolent grin.

“They shall be consumed by that fear.”

After going over all the read-outs to ensure their flight would continue uninterrupted, Aveline stretched in her seat and turned to look at the occupant of the seat next to hers.

“You have been fairly quiet, Spike; are you feeling sick at all?” Aveline inquired. “If you are, it is okay; jump sickness is not uncommon, especially for first-timers.”

Spike gave a little laugh.

“Please, you have clearly not gone through that mirror to Canterlot High. That was a real doozy.” He replied, and then gave a sigh as the brief bravado escaped him. “I’m fine, it’s just… a lot’s happened over the last few days, y’know? First you guys turn up, then the Fallen, and then the Crystal Empire gets attacked by these ‘Vex’ things.” He leaned back and stared out the viewport, into the whirling turmoil of color that was jumpspace. “Now we’re on a spaceship, flying to a whole different planet and Shining Armor’s dead… I guess it’s like there’s too much to take in and I don’t know what to feel.”

“Well… let us start with Shining Armor, then.” Aveline said, turning her chair to face Spike’s. “Who was he to you?”

Spike thought for a moment before replying.

“I… I didn’t really know him that well.” Spike said. “I mean, I met him a few times and he was super awesome, always acting like I was his little bro or something. I liked him; I liked when he’d let me read his comics, and knowing he didn’t make it out? It… it hurts, yeah.” He looked back to the door leading further into the ship and his expression turned to worry. “But… it’s Twilight I’m worried about right now. She really took it hard, even you can see that. Normally Twilight would be all over this ship and we’d have to spend the entire trip answering every. Single. Question; she’d probably have worn herself out before we even got to Earth, however…”
“She is not doing anything.” Aveline finished and Spike nodded.

“Yeah… they were really, really close, y’know. She adored him, practically idolized him. It’s why she never backed down from anything; Nightmare Moon, Queen Chrysalis, not even Lord Tirek himself. Although… Tirek was the one who got us bad.”

“What do you mean?” Aveline asked.

“You remember that blackened tree stump currently sitting near the train station?” Spike asked and when Aveline nodded, he slumped. “That used to be a library… our home. Tirek blew it up during his rampage and she barely got out of there with Owlowicious. He’s still scared of fire and loud noises, but Twilight’s been having recurring nightmares. I think the doctor called it-”

“Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.” Aveline interrupted, and then she, too, turned to look at the door. “I see our arrival was… rather ill-timed.”

“Tell me about it.” Spike replied, and then returned to looking out the viewport. “She’s been doing better now, having less nightmares and not going into full panic mode every time a door slams or I accidentally burn haybacon.” Spike gave a huff and crossed his arms. “But I bet we’re going to have all kinds of new problems once this stuff is through.”

“Perhaps it is best you not think about what is to come.” Aveline told the dragon. “What may come, will come, and you will be able to handle it then. Right now, you should focus on the present.”

“Okay…” Spike replied, and after a moment, he leaned toward Aveline. “Does Earth have any dragons?”

Aveline chuckled at his question.

“No, sadly. On Earth, dragons are creatures of fairy tales; ones where the brave knight faces the beast and rescues the princess.” Aveline replied and Spike gave her a suspicious look.

“But wait, what if the dragon actually just likes the princess? Did they ever think about that?” Spike asked and Aveline shrugged.

“Such tales where created long before even Gospel was born. I have no way of knowing their intent.” Aveline replied.

“Well, then maybe I’ll create a fairy tale where the dragon wants to be friends with the princess and he beats the stupid knights who are jealous!” Spike proclaimed, garnering another laugh from Aveline.

“You should do that, Spike; even I would want to read that story.” Aveline told the dragon, who beamed up at her.

“I think I’ll start on it after this whole Vex business is over with.” Spike said as he relaxed and closed his eyes. “Right now… I could use a nice, long… nap.”

It was not long before he was snoring, sound asleep and Aveline smiled softly at him.

“I envy your youth, Spike.” She murmured quietly. “It has been too long since I could spare the time to sleep whenever I so wished.”

She gave a low, tired sigh, and then turned back to the viewport.

‘Their world will never be the same… y’know that, right?’ Lance queried and Aveline frowned.

“Yes… and it’s a damn shame.”

Samson sat on a box brought out from Mischief Maker, though it was currently empty. His fingers were clasped contemplatively and he stared at a blank section of wall as though he saw something that wasn’t there. His Ghost, Gauge, hovered around the various other boxes, scanning them. She would occasionally steal a brief glance at her Guardian, but otherwise said nothing. Gospel, meanwhile, was directing various unicorns and changelings as they unloaded various parts of weapons and armor. He was holding a clipboard and a pencil, scratching on it as his Ghost, Scripture, gave him readouts. Eventually Gospel approached Samson, scratching at his head.

“Well, so far we’ve got enough parts for a little over a dozen Marshall autos, Pulsar MSe pulse rifles, Jigoku scouts, and Duke handcannons.” Gospel stated, going over the list. “We’ve also got parts for a few Hieracon sniper rifles, some Preacher shotguns, and several Tengoku fusion rifles of each elemental charge. As for heavies… well, we’ve got parts for a few Xerxes machine guns but only enough for a couple of Jester launchers.”

“And ammunition?”

Gospel scratched at his head in frustration.

“Got tons of synth, but not enough for what we need it for; good for… maybe a few hours solid combat?” Gospel was silent for a moment before he tossed his clipboard away haphazardly. “Who are we trying to kid here? Even if we didn’t have basic weapon parts meant for maintenance, we’d never have brought enough ammo to withstand a siege for even a day! We’re so far up shit creek, we’re in the rapids and there’s not a damn thing we can do to save ourselves… we’re fucked, Samson.”

When Samson didn’t respond, Gospel gave him a sideways glance.

“Please, please tell me you’ve got a plan rattling around in that mechanical skull of yours.” Gospel said.

“Even the best battle strategy will fail if all we have to fight with are sticks and stones.” Samson said finally. “Shining Armor led a defense that held just long enough for us to mount a rescue and that was after getting caught with his proverbial pants down.”

“But you know as well as I do that the Vex don’t fall for the same tricks twice.” Gospel replied. “And we can’t rely on the same defenses through an entire siege; the Vex will quickly find a way to punch through our formations.”

“Which means we need a fluid, evolving defense; something to keep them on their toes.” Samson said. “We’ve got capable enough leaders to pull it off, but we need troops; troops with guns and the training to use them.”

“Yep…” Gospel agreed, leaning against the wall. He looked at Samson and curiosity crossed his face. “You got something in mind, Sam?”

“I plan to find someone with the guns and boots we need… and I know just where to look, too.” Samson replied.

“What, really? Where can we…” Gospel paused mid-sentence as his brain caught up and he shot off the wall. “Oh… no, Hell no, you aren’t seriously suggesting-!”

“What other choice do we have?” Samson interrupted, standing suddenly. “We’re outnumbered and outgunned, Ian! You know as well as I do that it’s a day’s jump to and from Earth. Even if the Vanguard authorizes immediate Guardian deployment, we’ve still got at least two days before they get here; at least with the help of the Fallen, we might have a chance of surviving long enough for them to arrive.”

“But we don’t even know if the Fallen will listen to us!” Gospel countered.

“We at least have to try, Ian; this entire world is depending on us.” Samson said. Gospel clenched his fist, but then relaxed.

“Damn it, you’re right as usual.” Gospel said. “You make contact with the Fallen, I’ll get started on these weapons. I think if we remove the finger guards, our hooved friends should be able to-” Gospel paused mid sentence as a unicorn entered.

“Um, excuse me, Mister Gospel.” She said stopping in front of the warlock. A rifle floated in behind her and Gospel took it. “We found a couple of crates that had fully assembled weapons in them. What should we do with them?”

Gospel stared at the weapon in his hands before hefting it and aiming down its sights. The weapon had a box-like design meant to imply a rugged functionality and a strap ran the length of the gun. He found the gun sat well in his hands and his finger rested easily on the trigger, as though this was a gun he’d used dozens of times before.

“This gun’s brand new.” He said, and then quietly added “Feels like home…”

“Sir?”

“Oh, uh…” Gospel stammered, snapping out of his head. “Set them aside, there’s no reason to mix them up with unassembled arms.”

The unicorn nodded and left. Gospel stared at the weapon a moment longer before slinging it over his shoulder. Samson’s face broke into a robotic grin.

“Wonder how many strings Banshee had to pull to get those guns?” Samson inquired and Gospel shrugged.

“No clue, but we owe him big time, they might just save our lives.” Gospel replied. Samson stood from his box.

“Get started on the weapons; I’ll make contact with the Fallen and see if I can’t get them on our side.” Samson said, walking past Gospel.

“And if you can’t?” Gospel asked and Samson stopped in the doorway.

“Whether they join us or not is irrelevant. I’ll start talking with Shining Armor and Chrysalis about how to plan our defense.” Samson replied without looking at Gospel and then left.

After the last of the ponies had disembarked from the ketch, Morra returned to the bridge to manage the flight crew. She paced around behind various Dregs and Vandals as they worked the various devices necessary for the ship to fly. As she passed a Dreg, it turned to her.

“Herald, we are picking up a transmission on all channels.” He reported and Morra stopped, looking at the Dreg.

“One of our own?” She asked and the Dreg shook its head.

“No, Herald; it’s a Terran transmission, from a Ghost.” The Dreg replied and Morra gave him her full attention.

“Let me listen.” She commanded and the Dreg stepped aside with a respectful bow. Morra’s hands whirled briefly over the console to link it to her helmet’s internal audio and listened. After a moment she spun and quickly raced out of the bridge, leaving a confused Dreg to stare at her flight.

It didn’t take her long to reach the chamber where Xarksis, Tolarum and Varkin were conversing. The second she entered, the three Eliksni within stopped speaking and stared at her, with Xarksis giving her a threatening glare.

“Herald Morra, your new station comes with authority and lenience, but I would not recommend testing how far either goes.” He warned and Morra bowed.

“Forgive me, my Kell, but we have received a transmission from one of the Guardians.” She stated quickly.

“They make contact with us…?” Varkin asked, rubbing a hand under his chin. “Intriguing.”

“Put it on audio, I wish to listen.” Xarksis commanded and Morra did so. After a moment, the sound of Samson’s voice filled the room.

“My name is Samson-12, captain of Fireteam Wisp and current planetary liaison for the Vanguard. I humbly request to meet with the House of Dragons to discuss a matter of utmost importance.”

The message stopped briefly before beginning to play once more and Xarksis silenced it. It was Tolarum who spoke first.

“Do you think this is a trap?” Tolarum inquired and Varkin shook his head.

“I doubt it, Commander; Guardians have never been so subtle in their attempts to slay the Eliksni and I hardly think they would change their tactics now.” Varkin replied. “If they are making contact with us, I suspect it is genuine and they are desperate for something only we have.”

“But what could they possibly want from us?” Morra asked and Xarksis leaned forward.

“We shall find out.” He replied. “Herald, take a skiff and two of our best guard and bring me the Light-wielder. Commander, send word throughout the ship that all personnel are to be armed and on stand-by just in case.”

“As your will demands, my Kell.” Tolarum and Morra replied and they departed, leaving Xarksis and Varkin alone. After a moment of silence, the wizened Vandal spoke.

“I believe this is the right course, Kell Xarksis.” Varkin said.

“…Perhaps.” Xarksis replied.

Samson hadn’t received any confirmation from the Fallen. He didn’t know whether or not they would come, but he still prepared his gear as though he were expecting them. He found the box containing the premade weapons and saw they were top-of-the-line weapons from three of the City’s leading foundries; Omolon, Hakke, and SUROS. Samson pulled one of the large, sleek rifles bearing SUROS livery and checked it. Satisfied, Samson put a fresh clip into the gun and placed it on the magnetic holster on the back of his armor. Then he pulled a Hakke pistol out and loaded it, chambering a round and putting the weapon on another magnetic holster on the thigh of his armor.

Ready, Samson left the busy chamber full of ponies and encountered Shining Armor waiting outside.

“Prince Shining Armor, is there something you need?” Samson asked and Shining Armor levitated the gun Samson had given him, holding it out to the Titan.

“Here, you can have your weapon back.” Shining Armor stated. “Thanks for letting me borrow it.”

Samson stared at the gun for a moment before shaking his head.

“Keep it; with what’s about to happen, you’re going to need it more than me.” Samson replied and walked past. Shining Armor turned and followed Samson.

“You meeting with the Fallen?” He asked and Samson shrugged.

“Maybe, it’s kind of up to them.” Samson replied. “I wouldn’t blame them if they ignored me; we haven’t exactly been on peaceful terms with them.”

“Things will be much more difficult without them.” Shining Armor stated as they exited the castle.

“Yeah, it’s going to be busy around here.” Samson said. “We’ve got to modify a lot of weapons, synthesize ammunition, train ponies on how to shoot properly and I’ve got to show you how to use the Light.”

“I think I can handle myself.” Shining Armor said. Samson came to a stop on the path from the castle and turned to Shining Armor.

“I know you can, but without Aveline, we’re low on full-strength Guardians and we need you to be as strong as I can make you.” Samson told him. Shining Armor was about to reply when there was a sound like a thunderclap.

Both of them turned in the direction of the noise and saw a Fallen skiff coming to stop near them. The vessel hovered low to the ground and three Vandals – Morra and two Kellsguard – jumped out. The Kellsguard aimed shrapnel launchers at Samson, fanning out to flank them while Morra approached the Titan confidently.

“Guardian. Kell of Dragons has requested your presence aboard his ketch.” Morra stated and Samson approached. He reached for his rifle in order to surrender it to Morra, but the Kellsguard barked something in their language and raised their weapons threateningly. Samson lowered his hand.

“Okay, I guess you don’t mind me being fully armed.” Samson stated.

“Taking weapons serves no purpose, Titan.” Morra told him. “We know you do not need weapons to kill; at least with weapons, we have warning and know when to kill first.”

Samson was silent before giving a shrug. Morra nodded towards one of the Kellsguard and they took up positions behind and on either side of the Exo. That done, Morra turned back toward the skiff and began to walk back to it when Shining Armor stepped forward.

“Wait!” He said and the Fallen herald turned a baleful gaze to him. Shining Armor hesitated only briefly. “I want to come with you.”

‘Are you insane?! They’ll kill us!’ Aegis’ exclaimed, but Shining Armor ignored her.

Morra regarded him for a moment before speaking.

“And who are you?” She inquired.

“My name is Shining Armor, Prince of the Crystal Empire.” He stated and, after a brief pause, added. “And… a Guardian.”

The two Kellsguard looked at each other, and then turned their attention to Morra and one of them growled questioningly. Shining Armor didn’t understand what it had said, but he was sure there was a touch of uncertainty to the creature’s voice. Morra said nothing for a long minute before turning back to the skiff.

“If you wish, but do not expect better than the false human.” She growled and then crawled into the skiff. The two Kellsguard kept their positions around Samson as they followed her, clearly seeing him as the greater threat. The skiff began to hum and Shining Armor quickly got on board.

‘Ugh… and after all that work I did to escape…’ Aegis groused, but then she chuckled. ‘ Oh, I can’t wait to see the look on Soreks’ optic when he sees I found a Guardian.’

Silver Spanner finished moving a box of parts into place when she heard a crash from behind her. She turned sharply to see a wall-eyed grey pegasus mare hovering near a pile of crates that she had just knocked over, her hooves covering her muzzle.

“Hey, be careful with those! We don’t want anything to break before we can put it together!” Silver Spanner shouted to the mare.

“S-Sorry!” She squeaked fearfully. “I accidentally bumped it and it fell over…”

“It’s okay, accidents happen.” Silver Spanner said with a sigh – getting mad at her wouldn’t help anything – and she gestured with her hoof out the door. “How about you go see if Rainbow Dash needs any help and I’ll clean this up?”

The wall-eyed mare brightened up and gave an enthusiastic nod.

“Okay!” She replied cheerfully and flew out the door, banging her head on the doorframe as she did so. Once she was gone, Silver Spanner gave another sigh.

“How she is simultaneously the most and least useful pegasus in Ponyville is beyond me…” Spanner grumbled and began to levitate boxes back into when a flash of white caught her eye. She looked at it and saw the end of a – what did they call it, a rifle? – sticking out from underneath some boxes.

She pulled it out and saw the weapon looked similar to some of frames she’d seen in a box, except it had more rounded edges and what looked like writing on the side. Unlike the others, this one had a rounded loop that she assumed one looked through because it lined up with a raised point at the end of the barrel. She also noticed that the weapon had what appeared to be a tube of some kind running most of length of the weapon, from the barrel to where the trigger was, feeding into a rounded area at the heart of the weapon. It looked whole and she picked it up, but immediately noticed that it felt dead in her aura. She looked around cautiously for a moment and, upon seeing she was alone in the room, closed her eyes and focused her magic. When Spanner felt the appropriate magic build-up, she placed her hoof on the weapon.

“Trace… on!” Silver Spanner murmured and suddenly she could feel her consciousness racing through the gun’s inner workings; she even understood what everything in it was and needed to do! She felt her way through its circuitry, across the length of the barrel, and through the energy transfer into the central chamber until…

“Ah, that’s your problem right there!” She exclaimed quietly, opening her eyes. “You took a nasty hit and they haven’t been able figure out what’s wrong to fix you.” Silver Spanner rose and sped out the door, carrying the gun with her. She knew how to fix the weapon, but she needed to get it back to her workshop. Silver Spanner was in such a hurry that Gospel barely avoided bumping into her.

“Hey!” He shouted in alarm and turned, but the unicorn had already turned and corner and disappeared. He waved a hand irritably, shouting into the hallway she ran down. “Watch where you’re going!”

When nobody responded, Gospel shook his head and headed toward the room she’d just departed, but Scripture lingered.

“Why was she in such a hurry…?” He murmured questioningly, but then started when Gospel shouted again.

“GOD DAMN IT! WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED IN HERE?!”

Scripture spared one final glance at the empty hallway before following Gospel.

Morra and the Kellsguard led Samson and Shining Armor through the Fallen ketch, with each Dreg and Vandal they passed making a point of flashing their weapons. A Captain even made a point of leaning far too close to Samson and growling in the Exo’s face, an act meant to intimidate and challenge, but Samson ignored him and he left with a huff. Halfway through the ship a group of Shanks began to silently shadow the group. They were apparently some kind of security detail and their presence was meant as a warning; always keeping their distance, but not so far that the Guardians couldn’t hear the whir of their internal workings.

After a long, uncomfortable amount of time traversing the ship, Morra finally led them through a hatch that opened into a large, shadowy chamber. There were various terminals scattered around, but at the back was a large throne with banners draped over it. It was presently unoccupied, but the rest of the chamber was filled with glowing blue lights; Fallen lurking in the darkness, watching them intently. They stopped in front of the throne and Morra took a position to one side of it. Almost immediately Kellsguard began to appear from either side, their camouflage dissipating in a growl of crackling electricity and they each brandished a pair of crackling, electrically charged swords. Wordlessly they surrounded the Guardians, keeping far enough away that, should either of the Guardians attempt to attack, they could still pounce and strike with their swords without being within easy reach.

With a grace that Shining Armor wouldn’t have believed possible for one so large, a Baron stepped from the shadows behind them and paced to their front. Unlike the Captain from earlier, this Baron leaned down until he was almost nose-to-nose with Samson, two large hands resting on the hilts of his swords. The Exo didn’t flinch or look away, but instead returned the Baron’s glare indomitably. Shining Armor contemplated going for his gun, but Aegis stopped him.

‘Your vitals are spiking; calm down.’ She told him. ‘It’s an intimidation tactic; they’re trying to see if they can make you uncomfortable enough to draw your gun.’

“Well, it’s working; I am definitely uncomfortable.” Shining Armor murmured in response. “Are you sure they aren’t going to attack?”

‘Positive.’ Aegis replied. ‘If the Fallen are anything, it’s proud. If they mean to kill you, they won’t waste time on theatrics.’ And as if by an afterthought, Aegis added. ‘Although I’m sure they wouldn’t mind an excuse to put your head on a pike.’

“Lovely…” Shining Armor grumbled just as the Baron broke eye contact with Samson and turned his glare on Shining Armor, saying nothing. Shining Armor tried not to let the chill that ran across his spine show.

After what seemed to be an eternity of silence, there was the sound of a hatch opening and a Vandal leaning heavily on a staff entered from behind the throne. Shining Armor didn’t have long to contemplate whether he was the “Kell” or not because a Fallen of unbelievable size, wearing armor that spoke of both his strength and his stature, strode confidently in from behind the throne and stood in front of it. He did not take a seat, but instead stood there, looking imperiously down at the Guardians.

From all around them came a brief rush of movement as every Fallen in the chamber save the wizened old Vandal knelt respectfully in the presence of what was indisputably their leader. Xarksis, Kell of Dragons, addressed Samson in a rich baritone tinged only slightly in a growling warble.

“We meet again, Guardian.” He stated less in greeting and more as a hostile displeasure. “I do not make it a habit to meet with enemies of my people, and many here would be more than happy to tear you limb from limb and crush your Ghost.”

“I am well aware of that, Kell of Dragons.” Samson replied respectfully. “I wouldn’t say I like this any more than you.”

Shining Armor wasn’t sure, but he thought he saw the Kell’s eyes glint briefly in what might have been amusement. Before he could certain, however, the Kell turned his regal gaze toward Shining Armor.

“My favored Servitor has been quite shamed, you know.” He said, his words dripping with false formality. “Did you not enjoy my hospitality?”

Shining Armor swallowed, sweat beginning to bead on him.

“Um… e-excuse me?” He asked carefully.

“I do not speak to you, fledging; I speak to the Ghost that has given you new life.” Xarksis replied, and then turned his gaze back to Samson. “But that is no matter; I wish to know why there are Guardians aboard my ship that I have not yet ordered to be killed.”

‘Wow, he doesn’t beat around the bush, does he?’ Gauge remarked.

‘Surprisingly, most Fallen don’t.’ Aegis replied.

“I’m here on behalf of Equestria, not the Vanguard.” Samson said. “I’m sure I don’t need to tell you about the Vex presence.”

“No, even if our sensors had failed to detect them, Princess Cadance was more than happy to inform us of what happened.” Xarksis replied, and then briefly inclined his head toward Shining Armor. “My condolences.”

“Um… thanks?” Shining Armor said nervously.

“Well, we’ve managed to recover some intel regarding the Vex, namely as to the location of their stronghold.” Samson told Xarksis and the Kell did something unexpected; he blinked. There was a murmur of alien voices as word spread across the room. After a moment, Xarksis took a seat on his throne.

“And you offer me this information freely?” Xarksis inquired and Samson shook his head.

“I would but… there’s more to it than that.” Samson replied and Xarksis leaned forward dangerously.

“Explain.” He commanded and Samson only hesitated briefly before holding out his hand and Gauge appeared over it.

“Gauge, send them the data packet.” Samson told her.

“Uh, right. Transmitting now.” She chirped and hovered over to a nearby console while Samson spoke to Xarksis.

“I’m giving you all the intel we’ve gleaned from a pair of advanced Vex units unlike any we’ve ever seen.” He said as all the holoscreens in the room changed to display technical readouts and images of the Stalker and Wraith units.

Aegis had done most of the work parsing the data into the Fallen language, thus there was more murmuring as the Fallen saw – and read – the technical readouts. Xarksis displayed no gratitude, acting as if this was to be expected of the Guardians.

“As you can see, they’re not dissimilar from Guardians. Far as we can tell, they’re just prototypes and we have no way of knowing if there’s any more.” Samson continued. “However, they aren’t why I contacted you.”

“I would assume not, otherwise you would be wasting my time and your life.” Xarksis said, entwining the fingers of one pair of hands. “You said you know where their stronghold is; elaborate before I tire of you.”

“Well…” Samson replied, and the screens switched to a map of the Crystal Empire. He indicated a red dot in the northern peaks. “A survivor discovered it in the mountains here, just to the north. We aren’t sure how big the complex is, but it may be more or less directly underneath the city.”

Morra said something to Xarksis, but the Kell responded by raising one hand to silence her.

“You’re giving us this information in the hopes that we lay siege to this stronghold.” Xarksis stated but to his surprise, Samson shook his head.

“No, or at least, not yet.” Samson replied and Xarksis leaned forward again, curious.

“Then why are you here?” Xarksis asked and before Samson could respond, Shining Armor stepped forward.

“Because we need your help.” He stated and Xarksis’ head immediately snapped to look at Shining Armor, dangerous intent flickering in his eyes. Shining Armor balked slightly, but continued. “The Vex are mustering their forces in preparation to attack. We know where they are, we have Guardians and now we’ve sent for reinforcements; I don’t doubt for a second that they intend to strike first to cripple, if not eradicate us.”

“Do not speak to Kell of Dragons unless you are spoken to, Guardian!” Morra snapped, but Shining Armor ignored her.

“We have spears and bows, formidable weapons against a normal enemy but not the Vex.” Shining Armor said. “We need weapons comparable to their own and soldiers capable of wielding them! Please, I beg of you… lend us your people’s strength so we may protect our own!”

Kell Xarksis stood suddenly, causing Samson to instinctively reach for his gun and subsequently have dozens of shockswords and Fallen guns pointed at him and Shining Armor. Tolarum drew his own swords and moved to stand between Shining Armor and Xarksis, but the Kell stayed him with one hand and a single barked order. None of the Fallen moved to strike, but neither did they lower their weapons. Xarksis glared down at Shining Armor, his eyes burning.

“You ask me to send what few troops I have so that you may have some… fleeting hope that you will somehow survive the Vex?” Xarksis growled, his voice low and dangerous. “You ask me to send my people to die for yours? What have we to gain from this; information that does nothing more than to tell me that the most dangerous enemy in the galaxy is becoming more so? HA! You have nothing; are worth nothing!”

“We have Guar-” Shining Armor began, but he stopped when Xarksis bent low to be eye-to-eye with him.

“You know nothing of us, Equestrian. My people – the Eliksni people – have lost everything. We have become so depraved that we have forgotten who we are as a species, fighting ourselves as readily as we fight our enemies.” Xarksis told Shining Armor, his voice low. “In our eyes… your people are only beginning to taste the dark despair that has long since consumed us.” Xarksis rose and gestured with one hand. “Morra, escort these shades back to where you found them… we are finished here.”

Xarksis began to leave and Samson lowered his hand uncertainly, looking around at the various Fallen.

“You’re not going to kill us?” He asked and the Kell stopped and gave him a sideways glance.

“Why bother? You will be dead in short order regardless, so I see no reason to waste resources on you.” He replied.

The Fallen began to push Samson and Shining Armor back towards the hatch they’d entered, but Shining Armor resisted.

“The darkness hasn’t consumed you!” He shouted over the Fallen. “You just need hope that everything will be alright!” The Kellsguard lifted Shining Armor off the floor easily, growling angrily as he struggled. “As long as you believe you can, no foe will ever be beyond your ability to defeat!”

His protests were muffled as the hatch closed and Xarksis stood silently. After a moment, he turned to face the hatch, staring at it.

“Fool… does he not know there is no victory in the face of this darkness?” Xarksis murmured and Varkin growled in response.

“Perhaps he does, but he chooses to stand against it anyway.” Varkin said. “He has everything to lose, after all. Better they fight for everything in one grand battle than cower and hide, rolling over while their enemy destroys them.”

Xarksis said nothing and departed with Tolarum close behind. Varkin, however, lingered and ruminated.

Samson and Shining Armor sat quietly in the skiff as it left the ketch. Samson was leaning forward and thinking deeply while Shining Armor fumed. Morra stared at Shining Armor in silence for a while before speaking.

“My Kell does not deny your request out of hate, Equestrian.” She said, causing Shining Armor to look up at her.

“No… no he doesn’t.” Shining Armor replied. “I get it; he’s got all of you to look after. If I was in his position, I’d probably say the same thing.”

“Probably with more tact.” Samson added and Shining Armor gave a small laugh.

“Yeah, definitely.” He replied.

“Yet, you are still… upset?” Morra queried and Shining Armor sighed.

“Yeah… I’m just frustrated.” Shining Armor told her. “I guess I feel like I failed Equestria as a prince.”

To both of their surprise, Morra shook her head.

“No, you did not.” She replied and both Samson and Shining Armor looked at her.

“What do you mean?” Shining Armor asked.

“You spoke from heart. You put yourself in danger for home, for people.” Morra told him. “A Kell must be willing to put house before himself and you have done so. You failed only to get allies, but not as leader.”

The skiff began to slow and descend, the hatches on the side opening to reveal Ponyville. Once near the ground, both Samson and Shining Armor disembarked while Morra leaned out.

“I give regrets, Prince Shining Armor; if my choice, I would gladly lend my blade to your cause!” Morra shouted over the skiff’s engines.

“Thank you Morra, Herald of Dragons; give your Kell my apologies for my outburst!” Shining Armor shouted back and Morra nodded. She turned to crawl back in the skiff, but pause and turned back.

“There is… still hope!” She shouted again. “You must stay determined!”

She entered the skiff and it immediately rose and departed in a crack of thunder, leaving Samson and Shining Armor behind. They lingered briefly before turning as one back to the castle.

“Well, now we move on to the next step.” Samson said and Shining Armor nodded.

“Show me how to use the Light.” Shining Armor replied. “We’re going to need anything and everything if we want to survive.”

Author's Note

I LIVE!
Grimoire Card acquired: Ghost Fragment: Kell Xarksis 2, Etheric Fragment II

Ghost Fragment: Kell Xarksis 2
Prince Uldren Sov: “Greetings to you, Kell Xarksis. We are grateful you have deigned to meet with us.”

Kell Xarksis: *growls* “Spare me your honeyed words, princeling; your continued presence is tolerated only at my discretion. Speak your business or be gone from my ship.”

Uldren: *is silent a moment* “Very well. The Awoken wish to make the House of Dragons a lucrative offer, one we believe benefits us both.”

Xarksis: “As was stated in the transmission from the House of Judgment. If not for Variks, you and yours would not be standing before me.”

Uldren: “The offer we present to you is thus; aid the Awoken in dealing with certain… pests, and we shall allow you your take of salvage from the Reef, to do with as you see fit.”

There is silence… then a sound, presumably the laughter of Kell Xarksis.

Uldren: “Do I amuse you in some form, Your Grace?”

Xarksis: “Greatly so. There are only three reasons you would come to me with such an offer.”

Uldren: “Please explain.”

Xarksis: “The first is that star-eyed witch you call Queen is far less intelligent than I have given her credit for being and did not learn her lesson the first time. The second is that she thinks she can play me into warring with the House of Wolves, potentially destroying my own House in the process; it would, as the Terrans love to say, ‘kill two birds with one stone’.”

Silence between the Kell and Uldren Sov.

Xarksis: “Ah, that look upon your face. You know what the third is, do you not?”

Uldren: “Choose your words carefully, Scavenger. It would not do to incur the Queen’s wrath.”

Xarksis: *laughs* “Save your hollow threats for one who fears you, rat. The final reason you would be standing before me is because Mara Sov is desperate; the Reef is weakened, your forces all but eradicated. She needs an army to show that she is still in control, that she still has power and influence.”

Uldren: “It is an offer of mutual profit; accept it or not, it makes no difference to us.”

Xarksis: “Oh, but I do accept. The House of Dragons will fight the war you brought upon yourselves.”

Uldren: “We are glad an accord could be reached. Grant us your forces so we may begin deployment at once.”

Xarksis: “No.”

Uldren: “No? I was under the impression that-”

Xarksis: “The House of Dragons shall fight your battles, but it will not bend a knee. My forces are mine and mine alone; I decide when and where they will be deployed, your Queen does not. She will have no authority over my forces unless I allow it, and when the war is won, we shall take what is owed and leave you to your banal politics and schemes.”

Uldren Sov is silent.

Xarksis: “If the terms are unfair, do feel free to scurry back to Queen Mara Sov and tell her so. Perhaps then she will elect to speak with me personally and not send vermin to treat on her behalf.”

Uldren: “Wretch! You dare speak of the Queen with such disrespect-”

Xarksis stands and crosses to Uldren Sov, snatching him up before he has a chance to react. Xarksis’ guard quickly incapacitates the other Awoken.

Xarksis: “I do dare! I am Xarksis, Kell of the House of Dragons! When Winter shattered, it was I - and I alone - who rose from Draksis’ demise with the will to unite my scattered people! I do not fear you, and I do not fear your Queen!”

Uldren is dropped, coughing and gasping. The Kellsguard release the Awoken entourage.

Xarksis: “But I digress; we have a common interest. Skolas, if allowed to gain strength, will become a thorn in my side unless he is brought to heel. Make no mistake; I do not wish the House of Wolves destroyed; if anything, we will need their strength soon.”

Uldren: *coughs* “You... you already...?!”

Xarksis: “Return to your Queen and tell her that I accept her terms on the conditions that I retain control over my House and that any – and I do mean any – Wolves who choose to defect to my banner be pardoned her wrath.”

Uldren: “You drive a hard bargain, Kell of Dragons.”

Xarksis: “Unlike others, I will not be pushed around. Begone from my sight, Master of Crows, and when you pass my words to your sister, tell her to contact me. There is a matter of utmost importance I need to speak with her about.”

Etheric Fragment II
You have returned, Dreamwalker. It is good to see you again… I am happy.

I have enjoyed speaking with you; it has been so long since I have had anyone I could consider a “friend”. My sisters and I used to be such good friends. We spoke often about what we would do to save our people, to buy them precious time to live. We were so determined that we delved and delved into stories until we found it, the way to live.

Oh yes, we all made a bargain for eternity; understanding, strength, and cunning. We did not do so to become monsters, but to become the saviors of our people! To protect them from the end of all! Now, though… I have betrayed them all and doubtlessly, they were driven to betray me as well.

Oh, you understand my pain?

I see… you fell to temptation as well; I can see the darkness that has stained your soul. Even now you continue to struggle with what you have done. You… feel as though you must find redemption in some form?

I envy you.

I envy that you can seek such redemption, as all I have left in this existence – if one could call it such – is regret and sorrow. I envy that you were able to conquer your darkness to find your true self once more. I envy… that you were able to find freedom from your demon.

You are not free, you say? I disagree.

Are you imprisoned within your soul? Are you forced to sit and watch yourself commit atrocity after atrocity? Are you powerless to stop yourself from laying waste to whole worlds?

No. Every day you wake up and you are free to speak, to see, to love life for what it truly is. Others wake and see you not as a monster, but as a leader to look up to and receive guidance. Perhaps you are haunted by a shade of the fear that you will become such a monster again, but I assure you that that is why you will remain yourself. You know what happened to make yourself so terrible to others and every day you combat that darkness.

I envy you, Dreamwalker.

You…

Are the leader I should have been…