Warhammer: Chaos in Equestria

Chapter 7

Mekrail had walked in silence for a long time. His imposing, dark presence in the halls cowing all the palace staff and guards to the sides as he marched past. Blueblood followed behind, his lack of fear off-putting to the ponies he passed as they turned a few times through twisting corridors. After some time, they reached the massive, ornately crafted doors to the throne room. The Captain paused, taking a calming, steadying breath; and then he opened the door and stepped inside. Both of them glanced about, seeing that much of the destruction had been cleaned to the best of the staff's abilities; all that was left was the downed Thunderhawk that sat in the same crater from earlier.

"When did this happen exactly Mekrail?" Blueblood asked.

"Long story. I'll explain later."Mekrail grumbled, remembering the slight soreness from halting the massive craft before finally taking notice of the two sisters and Princess Luna. His expression didn't show anger as he eyed Celestia, for even he could take notice of the tell-tale uniform that his old friend Jackson required of his higher ranking officers. He knew she was of no threat to him or his brothers, and so instead he smiled faintly as he approached them. Bowing courteously to the three, He spoke up after rising again. "Greetings sisters of Jackson's realm, Princess Luna."

Blueblood remained silent, his expression slightly sheepish as he eyed the three in front of him. He didn't wish to ruin whatever his close friend had come to speak with them about, after all he never exactly maintained a good relationship with his aunts as Mekrail continued. "Princess, I wish to speak with you privately once your business is taken care of." Nodding to the two sisters before seeing the tired look in Luna's eyes. "It will be brief I assure you, and then you can take a deserved rest Princess."

The two sisters looked to Luna and nodded to her before Celestia spoke up. "We know what to do sister of this realm, do not worry for us. Go and speak with our friend Mekrail and then please do rest." Celestia frowned slightly as though she felt personally responsible somehow for the state of Luna. "You need it so much, and we've been resting for far too long and it's time we stepped up again to take the weight of responsibility." Her words were stern, but compassionate as the two both made their cloaks disperse into shadows and their normal royal attire take its place.

Both moved to their thrones and took respective seats before nodding faintly to the Princess. "Go and speak with him and rest our twin, we shalt rule in thy stead until such time as thy war is passed and peace restored." Luna said, her smile turning slightly sad before they looked to Mekrail as he waited for the Princess's response.

Luna motioned Mekrail to follow her as she walked to her bedroom, the Captain and Prince did as she meant to enter her room as she began to remove her royal garments.

"Princess!" Blueblood said momentarily shocked by this.

"You can't expect thee to wear these in battle do you?" Luna replied with a devilish smile as she used her magic and revealed new armor that had small boxes on either side of her barrel.

"Impressive." the Captain replied as he looked upon the armor with an amused expression.

"I need say no more than Tempest felt that I needed better equipment." Luna said as she laughed.

"Seems likely." Mekrail replied as she put on her new armor and the two rectangular boxes lit up with a narrow blue tip at the end.

"You mean to tell me that you are planning on fighting, what if you die, who will lead us?" Blueblood practically yelled.

Luna merely smiled as she put her new helmet on and a semi circle visor dropped down from just below her horn to cover her eyes, it to lit up blue. The armor itself was blue with a black under suit and Luna's ciutiemark upon its flank, her long sword sheathed on her back between her wings and the two plasma based weapons securely mounted to her sides. She looked to Blueblood though no one could tell if she were smiling since her face was completely sealed as the rest of her body was before she spoke with her voice having a slight electronic tone to it.

"Do not fret, Tempest's design has few flaws that the enemy could exploit." she said as she looked to Mekrail for his opinion now thta he could see the armor in its full glory.

Mekrail's expression was intense, his brows knit in concentration and a tactical eye studying every last detail of Luna's new armor. He walked about her, gleaning every inch about the armor's security and like she'd promised next to no flaws. However, there was but one flaw that he did take to noticing; it was perhaps the only one and could be rectified thanks to something the Captain always carried in remembrance. Walking back to her front, Mekrail crouched down to her level and withdrew from a pouch at his waist a small orb-like construct that faintly gave off an aura and was intricately carved with the Aquila and several small scriptures in High Gothic.

"This is a Rosarius Princess. It is an ancient relic of great power, entrusted to only those of the highest honor and greatest faith to serve within my Chapter. The Chaplain. The bearer of purity, installer of justice and faith, and the great mantle of morale in any Company. This ancient device took the deeply rooted faith of he who wears it and converts it into an impenetrable field of psychic energy of the Emperor's own blessing." Mekrail's expression seemed slightly pained as he recalled a long faded memory, but he smiled as he remembered the heroics that had saved his company that day. "Our Chaplain, Drakeun. He was the most faithful man I've ever known, and this relic protected him from all harm until he bestowed it unto me before his ultimate sacrifice for our survival. It shall serve you well, as long as your faith remains strong no matter what happens. And I know it shall, for you are unshakable and unwavering in your duty."

Mekrail reached out, gently setting the Rosarius in the center of her breastplate where it glowed brighter for a moment as it integrated with her armor before it shone bright enough that Mekrail ahd to shield his eyes. "Another just like old Drakeun hm?" He whispered, drawing back with a smile. "Now, you are perfect and prepared Princess."

Luna's visor rose slowly, back to its original position and her smile was seen as she eyed the Captain. "Thank you Mekrail, I shall cherish your gift unto me and use it well in your Chaplain's name in the battles to come."

"I know you shall Princess, otherwise I wouldn't entrust you with it should I not believe you worthy of it." Mekrail replied, turning slightly to Blueblood who now was shaking his head before huffing in defeat.

"So what was it that you wished to speak with Auntie Luna about anyways Mekrail?" He asked.

Mekrail's expression turned slightly grave, his eyes taking a distant look as he turned back to Luna. "Ah, yes." He said. "What I wished to speak to you about...It is of the war...the future ending...I wish to know should you desire we simply crush both Sombra and your sister...or do we take them alive?" His question was blunt, sharp and uncaring as he didn't mind either option. Though, he recalled; for the sake of his brother Rekriel he felt for some reason that keeping them both alive may be the best decision.

Luna was taken aback. Hearing such a question from someone she considered a friend about her sister and potentially murdering her at her command made her feel slightly sick. She shook her head slightly in response. "No...If we are to win this war...I wish my sister to be alive and well...And if Sombra has done something irreversible and she cannot be taken from him then he must live as well."

"Very well...Thank you Princess for answering that." Mekrail said, catching a glimpse of surprise from Blueblood at what his savior and close friend was prepared to do. Before Luna could ask why he'd wanted to know her answer; he waved her off and shook his head. "My reasons are best unknown Princess. I rather desire to return to the throne room and see how Jackson's sister's fare."

Blueblood nodded to his aunt, desiring to be rid of the past conversation for now and focus on something less depressing and shocking. "Let's go see them, perhaps they'd desire to see your armor auntie."

Nitronus kept his distance from the Blood Raven as the guards approached him. Turning to look upon them he noted that the lead guard had removed her helm to reveal her silver coat and red mane that practically fell out of her helmet.

"Is everyone okay?" the mare asked with worry in her red eyes.

Nitronus closed his eyes as he remembered what he had done earlier to Blueblood, it was foolish and wrong and he could no longer stand to shrug it off since Mekrail, a marine that he had shared blood with in battle, refused to acknowledge him. "Nothing too serious soldier."

"Good to know." the mare replied before turning to her guards, "Set up a perimeter and ensure that this doesn't happen again!" she yelled.

"Yes ma'am, Applebits ma'am!" the guards all replied in unison before running different directions to relay the orders.

Nitronus once again looked towards Quicksilver and Karlous before giving a sigh and walking back into the former battlefield to retrieve his sword and shield. Applebits decided to follow the marine and was astonished to see him remove his helm and give the sky a look of great sadness as the mighty warrior sighed once more.

"Something troubles you?" Applebits asked while holding her helm in red magic from her horn.

"What could be right, I am helping xenos fight chaos, but I am also expected to take orders from them?" the warrior asked gazing at the sun.

"Nopony said that you needed to take orders from us, in fact I imagine that we would much rather just have your help." Applebits replied giving him a soft look before looking at the many scars across his face.

"I must make amends with the Dark Angel Captain, no good will come of us fighting each other." Nitronus said as he picked up his sword and shield before walking back over to Quicksilver and Karlous, the latter now stirring.

Karlous had been laying out for a great deal of time. He knew it, for every second of his forced sleep he'd been counting and trying to force himself to wake for Quicksilver. He remembered every word she'd said, the feelings they'd shared and how much he wanted to be there for her; but instead he'd been knocked out and was unable to do so. Now, as he groggily shook himself from the dark clutches of his forced slumber he could barely make out and feel the warm body of the one he cared so deeply for wrapped around him. She still had tears in her eyes and running down her cheeks, but now she was smiling so deeply it might have been mistaken as a grimace by others as she hugged him tighter. With a groan, acknowledging the dull ache of his wounds; the Blood Raven shook away any last remnants of his grogginess and returned her embrace somewhat weakly.

Before he could speak, she silenced him with a deep kiss that surprised the Sergeant. However, but only for a moment. He returned her affection just as fiercely, and the two had a passionate duel of tongues that was only broken sadly by need for oxygen. A string of saliva still connecting them before breaking, they stared lovingly into each other's eyes and Karlous gently wiped away her tears as she whispered in a hurt voice. "I didn't know when you'd wake up....And every time I thought you'd never come back to me it felt like I was dying inside."

"Well...I'm here now Quicksilver, and I'm never leaving. Come hell, come high water, let the Chaos Gods rain down upon me; I shall never leave you." The Blood Raven whispered back in response, prompting another loving kiss from Quicksilver that they both again enjoyed immensely and were sad to break away from.

Finally, both remembered where they were and the audience that had borne witness to their affections. Both Quicksilver and the Sergeant's cheeks were burning as they glanced around at the guards, Applebits and Nitronus. Despite this, both were smiling happily as they looked into each other's eyes again and she helped him to sit up fully. Within moments, he was to his feet; although quite unsteadily and Quicksilver was on her hind legs helping to keep him upright. Her hugging about his body lessened the pain, and looking into her eyes helped even more as he kept an arm wrapped gently around her as well.

Finally, the Sergeant's eyes shifted away to Applebits whom he regarded already highly of as he sensed the great leadership and honor radiating off of her. "Thank you for coming to our aid Captain Applebits." He laughed hoarsely, coughing a bit of blood before shaking his head as Quicksilver looked up at him worriedly. "Even though it is a bit late, the fight was totally unforeseen. Even with all the Great Father's psychic skills at my disposal, I could not sense them in time; so please, accept my thanks."

"I was going to say that we have done nothing. you two held your own and killed these things, not us." Applebits said, smiling somewhat.
"But now you are much more wary, and you are prepared now to do as we did and prevent these attacks now. That is what a good leader aspires to do, to stop the battle before it begins." The Sergeant said, recalling his wisdom preached by his Company Librarian previously before the great betrayal of Chapter Master Kyras and subsequent death of his Company.

Applebits took the compliment, to hear it of this great warrior calling her a good leader; it meant a lot as she nodded slightly in respect. "Thank you..." She gave a slightly embarrassed look as she added, "I'm sorry, I didn't get your names."

"I am Sergeant Karlous of the Blood Ravens First Company. This is my..." Karlous searched for a word, but Quicksilver spoke up for him in a loving voice. "I am his marefriend, Private Quicksilver of the Celestial Guard."

"Thanks Quicksilver." Karlous whispered, blushing slightly again as he kissed her cheek before continuing as he glanced worriedly at his fellow brother. "This is Nitronus of the Blood Raptors."

"Well, thank you for the compliments Sergeant Karlous. And thank you for defending the palace from attack by these things. You have all our most sincere gratitude." Applebits said.

"We only do our duty, nothing more." Karlous replied, watching Applebits nod before giving them a respectful salute and rushing off to her soldiers to ensure her orders were carried out.

Finally, Karlous turned to Nitronus with his worry shown clearly. "You and I know just how difficult regaining the favor of Captain Mekrail shall be. Dark Angels are stubborn, more so to the point of dying for their beliefs if necessary. they have a strict code of honor, and you have broken that code in his eyes; now he no longer trusts you nor believes you a man of honor. Honor is everything to them, and now he and all his Dark Angels under his command shall have nothing to do with you; lest somehow you should be able to regain that honor by proving it to him. And proof, well that depends on what you did to anger him and break their code."

Karlous finally turned away, his extensive knowledge of the Dark Angels spent as he leaned slightly on Quicksilver for support; insisting he would be fine walking as long as she was there and they went slowly. His intention, to return to the throne room; and the Sergeant despite his pain enjoyed every step that he took as he and Quicksilver held each other lovingly the whole way.

Maximus had sat down next to Scootaloo while they both watched Dashing and Rainbow Dash fly away from Ponyville and to the latter's home.

"So, want to get something to eat?" Derpy said coming out from behind them.

Maximus turned around and stared her in the face with his daemon face.

"Max, that you?" Derpy asked with a cocked head.

Maximus nodded before putting his helmet back on and standing up.

"Where are you going?" Scootaloo asked as she stood up and followed the chaplain.

Maximus pointed inside the house without stopping.

"You arn't gonna cook are you?" Derpy asked.

Maximus walked through the door before they heard the fridge opened.

"Yeah, I'd say he's cooking." Scootaloo said wide eye'd.

A few hours past and Maximus walked out of a warp that materialized next to Scootaloo and Derpy as smoke billowed out of the forge kitchen. In his hands he held three small boxes and six small sticks, he gave us each one box and two of the sticks before he sat his down and walked back into the house. He procured a small red cylinder and began blasting white foam out of a nozzle, dowsing the flames in the kitchen, before tossing it back into the warp. He came back and sat down next to the two mares before taking off his helmet and opening the little box.

Rekriel and Elizabeth both had been walking for hours through the snowstorm. The blizzard all around them whipping and lashing, snow banks along each side a few paces away building up beyond even the Techmarine's stature. The harshness of the storm even at points was affecting Rekriel's flame held within his palm, forcing it to flicker and began to smolder before it would flare up again and deny the frozen wastes an opportunity to freeze them solid. All the while, it was peaceful silence from any battle. Silence, that in turn allowed both to stew in thoughts previously forgotten.

For Rekriel, it was simple. He was wondering about his Assassin friend, whom he had no doubt was tracking them right now; especially since he'd ensured a fairly easy path to follow up to their current location. As for the Battle sister behind him, he couldn't quite tell yet what she was pondering on. Perhaps something similar, or perhaps something different altogether; like that of her own brethren's fates. Whatever it might be, the Techmarine felt that though he should focus on the task at hand, he should lighten things up somewhat.

"No doubt by now you have guessed I am not a true Dark Angel." He said, not even glancing back as he forged ahead.

"That is evident Techmarine, you do not resemble your fellow Dark Angel brethren in the least." Elizabeth replied.

"Indeed." Rekriel stated. "That is because my heritage is to be traced back to that of the mighty Vulkan himself. I was never to be a Dark Angel...Rather my destiny was that of a Forge-Master for my long-lost brethren on our homeworld of Nocturne." Rekriel smiled somewhat though, as he glanced back at Elizabeth. "I do not pity my loss of my home, but I gained a new one amongst my brothers here; and once before in this very world in another universe I had a chance to settle and live the life I may have lived back on Nocturne."

Rekriel turned back, awaiting a response that would never come as he heard off in the distance ahead of him a shout. This shout was so filled with hatred, yet it sang with righteousness through the howling of the storm as puffs of fire came from two individuals off in the whiteness. "Hold the line Initiate! In the name of Dorn and the Emperor we shall not falter!"

"Yes Champion! Suffer not the Unclean to live!" The other voice rang out as more fire burst from the second speaker's direction.
It was then Rekriel noticed the fire billowing between the two shadows in the storm, one that like his own nullified the storm temporarily. Without caring, Rekriel merely glanced back and nodded before dousing his flame hand and charging into the storm to aid these unknown Space Marines.

Upon entering the are where the blizzard was kept back, Rekriel caught sight of them. Two towering marines, one clad in simple Mk. Seven Aquila power armor; the other wearing exquisitely crafted artificer armor that was adorned with purity seals and scrolls of faith, intricate words carved into its shoulder guards and greaves. They both bore heraldry of the Black Templars, and despite his initial agitation at meeting those his brethren had crossed several times before he forced it down as he saw the artificer one dueling and cutting apart hordes of Daemons with a black blade. The simpler marine was peppering crowds and tearing apart their ranks with volleys from a Heavy Bolter. They were cut off by a burning Valkyrie, which surprised him if only for a moment before he leapt into action and joined the blade-wielder in combat.

"By Dorn's holy name!" The marine shouted, turning for a split second to acknowledge this new fighter before returning to dueling with a Beserker whom he quickly disemboweled and hurled back into the horde. "What's a Dark Angel doing here?" He howled above the storm as Elizabeth joined alongside the simple marine and was battling with both her chainswords against those that dared brave too close.
"No time Champion!" Rekriel said coolly, ducking a chain-axe before slicing the wielder's hand off with his servo-saw and kicking him savagely away. "We must deal with the foul warp spawn and traitors, then we may talk!" His plasma cutters melted those that approached, his servo-saws hacking away at Daemons and Chaos Marines alike; his power axe held within a steely grip that ripped apart enemies, this left him slathered in blood and his lust for it was calling as he felt that innate darker side begin to take over.

the Initiate was still gunning down the hordes, his heavy bolter burning hot from the sheer amount of volleys he had blasted. A lake of blood pooling at his feet, he just continued to chant mantras to the Emperor to see him through and aid his destruction of the unholy creatures before he finally glanced at the Battle sister. "So he has answered our prayers..." He murmured, his weapon lowering before his voice rose to a shout of defiance. "You hear that you Unclean scourge! The Emperor's own are here to put you six feet under!" With this, he continued to feed round after round into them, not stopping until finally the last on his side fell from a bolt to the head or a chainsword in its throat.

When the battle was finally over, the marine lowered his weapon and was panting with uncontrolled rage as he stomped the prone body of a wounded Beserker that had fallen before him. "Abhor Chaos! Destroy Chaos!" He bellowed, crushing the traitor's skull with ease through his helm before turning his sight on Elizabeth.

His weapon instantly aimed at her just as the Champion Templar slipped around the Valkyrie wreck with Rekriel beside him. His gaze was stern as he barked, "Cease and desist Initiate! These two have aided us as loyal Servants of the Imperium." The Champion glanced to Rekriel, who nodded as he wiped the blood form his eyes. "There is nothing more we could pray for from him this day, so lower you weapon."
The Initiate immediately complied, although he shook his helmeted head as he ventured back into the downed craft for more ammo. "My apologies about my Sternguard Initiate Stanton, Battle Sister, Dark Angel. He only just completed his trials and is still well set in our teachings." A rumbling laugh escaped the Champion's throat before he turned to Rekriel. "What beith thy name of our saviors?"

"I am Techmarine Rekriel of the Dark Angels Third Company, and this is Battle Sister Elizabeth of the Blood Raptors." Rekriel said, rather evasively at the mentioning of Elizabeth.

"Blood Raptors...I've heard the name before...." The Champion thought aloud. "Must be your order, where are your other sisters and your Company, then fellow servants of Man by the way?"

"Lost...We were besieged by Chaos and cast into the warp and now we are scattered likely upon this world." Rekriel answered, just as Initiate Stanton emerged with a fresh stocked ammo pack for his heavy bolter.

"Ah, in the same boat as us then...." The Champion muttered before shaking his head as Stanton stood idly by with his weapon ready against more enemies that may come.

Rekriel eyed the Champion with slight confusion before turning to Elizabeth as he saw she was about to ask a question.

The trail had been easy to find. Working its way through the thick forest, trampled brush and snapped limbs of trees; the ground bearing witness to the passage of his Brother and that Battle Sister with deep prints in the soggy earth. It normally would seem too easy, almost like a trap to Telios; such clues left so carelessly. However, Telios knew that only Rekriel would have left prints with the Adeptus Mechanicus symbol in the tread; so this is how he knew he wasn't being duped as he followed along the treeline. Sticking to the shadows, using the available cover to keep hidden; he was able to make impressive time as he trekked alongside the path beat through the forest. with no enemies to face, he finally found himself hours later at the edge of the forest. This was where the tracks ended, although he could tell there was something drug over the edge as he studied the ground. Looking over the cliff, he saw what awaited as his visor scanned deep into the depths of the storm.

"I'm on my way brother Rekriel...Elizabeth." He whispered, the last part seemingly warming and steeling him for what was coming as he gracefully leapt from his crouched position and went over the edge.

As he fell, all he could think of was the frigid cold before he tucked and rolled just before the ground came up. Rolling with the impact lessened the pain, but only just as he grunted and felt a few bones fracture in his legs. When he came to a stop, he forced himself to rise and set off after seeing a recently melted path that was lower to the ground than the snow around it. "May the Emperor guide me to you both, and may he have kept you safe through this terrible storm." The last part more pointed to Elizabeth yet again as he set off at a fast pace through the cut snow path, his eyes dead set forward on his objective as he drew his Exitus Pistol and held it tightly in preparation of engaging an enemy should they be in trouble.

Reginald removed his helmet, but without the servitors he could not even think of removing the rest of his armor, that is, without help. He looked to the form of Discord before clearing his throat, "Perhaps you could lend me assistance spirit?" he asked looking down upon the mismatched draconian.

Discord raised his claw and snapped them as Reginald's armor flashed white and materialized in the corner of the room neatly away, "Will that do?" he snickered.

Reginald raised a brow, but merely shrugged before sitting down on the second couch adjacent to the one Discord was laying on, "Thank you Discord, though I would have taken that as heretical if not for how we met." the old chapter master replied with a small smile.

"Ah, think nothing of it Reggie, ever since I was reformed I have done nothing but help ponies, though I do have a few, harmless, mischievous spouts every now and then." the spirit of chaos replied looking straight towards the aged marine.

Reginald didn't respond, though he did maintain his smile as Braeburn walked back in with biscuits and milk.

"Now ah suppose ya'll are hungry?" the western pony asked.

"Oh, I'm famished, how about you CM?" Discord asked as he took one of the biscuits and took a small bite.

"The biscuits do look well baked, and it has been forty two Terran hours since I last consumed nourishment." he replied as he took a biscuit and eyed it with care.

"Ah think you'll like it, its an ol family recipe!" Braeburn said, looking upon the mass of man before him wearing nothing but black shorts.

Reginald took a bite and closed his eyes, when he opened them again after he had swallowed he gave the pony in front of him a grinned, "Thou has done thy ancestors proud pony, I hereby proclaim this the greatest biscuit I, in my long life, have ever tasted."

Braeburn smiled and tipped his hat before hoofing Reginald a glass of milk, which the marine took with his free hand, before he did the same for Discord and sat down with his own food. The three sat inside eating biscuits and drinking milk without speaking for a long time, that was at least till they heard screaming outside.

"Discord, can you put my armor back on?" Reginald asked as he stood and began for the door.

Discord snapped his claw once more and the armor with weapons covered the giant marine.

"My thanks friend." Reginald said before opening the door to be greeted with a Knights of Blood chaos marine staring at him, "Die heretic!" Reginald yelled before cutting the traitor in half with his lance.

Observing what was surrounding him he counted ten more marines, roughly fifty bloodletters, and ten flesh hounds. behind his helmet the chapter master was grinning before he raised his assault cannon and let loose a fury that would make even the strongest of marines think twice of crossing him in battle. He cut five of the marines down before they took cover behind the buildings that housed the ponies as the bloodletters surrounded him. Waving his lance to and fro, he cut the daemons down easily, though his killing spree was interrupted by a flesh hound throwing itself upon him.

"Begone mangy mut!" Reginald bellowed as he grabbed the lesser daemon and flung him into the remaining bloodletters before the five marines began firing upon him with their bolters.

Discord appeared above them wearing a white toga and holding a rather cartoony lightning bolt before he threw it down upon them, vaporizing them all into dust. Then he turned to the nine flesh hounds that were now making their way towards the downed chapter master.

"Sit!" he commanded, though the hounds ignored him and continued their sprint to Reginald who was now back on his feet.

Reginald shoved his assault cannon down the lead hounds throat before he slammed his boot into the second one, crushing it skull with a wet crack.

"Okay, we can do this the fun way." Discord growled darkly as the remaining seven hounds floated into the sky and were each struck by bolts of rainbow colored lightning.

"Effective Discord, you fight well." Reginald stated as he stood to his full height and looked at the carnage.

Many mutilated bodies of ponies lay about the little town, many innocent had died. Reginald frowned before he acquired his spear and stuck it into the ground. Though he was by no means a chaplain, it was still proper to pray for the fallen of this gruesome assault.

"We do not know what our chances of survival are, so we fight as if they were zero. We do not know what we are facing, so we fight as if it was the dark gods themselves. No one will remember us now and we may never be buried beneath Titan, so we will build our own memorial here. The Chapter might lose us and the Imperium might never know we existed, but the Enemy - the Enemy will know. The Enemy will remember. We will hurt it so badly that it will never forget us until the stars burn out and the Emperor vanquishes it at the end of time. When Chaos is dying, its last thought will be of us. That is our memorial - carved into the heart of Chaos. We cannot lose, Grey Knights. We have already won."

Reginald sang to the fallen ponies, some of whom were wounded beyond revival-able conditions, but still smiled to hear that they would be avenged by such a grand warrior and his compatriots, as they too passed at the end of his speech.

"That was, touching." Discord said sympathetically as he rested his claw upon Reginalds left pauldron and looked upon the dead with a frown, "Even when I had brought chaos to this world with my magic, I never harmed anypony, if anything I made many laugh."

"May they find peace in whomsoever's grasp they now lay, be it the Emperor's, or another deity." Reginald said as he stood once more, and looked to the sky.

The moment Princess Luna had exited the throne room with Mekrail and Blueblood, the two sisters had set to work. Luna had called up her twins's guards and immediately ordered them to spread word to all nobility that until further notice their authority in the government was to be revoked and all power returned to the Princesses. This royal decree was cemented when the Nobles that instantly showed up to rebut the decision were shouted down by Celestia's powerful voice alone. All of them were escorted out by Luna's guards, more so dragged out at the sheer strength of her command voice had paralyzed them with fear. In rapid succession, they had reclaimed all of Equestria's power to where they believed it should be; and with the nobility and other councils of which indecision was high disbanded they called upon their powers bestowed by Jackson to bring in sharp replacements.

These replacements came straight from Jackson's Death Corps, and they were of his highest ranking officers besides that of Field Marshal Rommel. Five soldiers, three Colonels and two Brigadier Generals; all standing at attention in their dress-blues before saluting sharply. "At-ease gentlemen." Celestia said, having them relax somewhat as they eyed both her and Luna.

"We trust thy five understand why thee was summoned?" Luna asked.

"Yes Lieutenant General Luna." They all answered in perfect sync.

"Good." Celestia stated. "Then I need not state the importance of your missions. However, you all must be informed of what we require."

"Thy missions, beith to train and mobilize an Army capable of crushing our enemies; and thee ist expected to efficiently supervise all Equestrian Government and see to the needs of our ponies here and abroad." Luna ordered, once more getting a sharp salute from the five before she effectively ended the meeting. "Dismissed. Now see to it that our country is taken care of and defended."

"Yes Lieutenant General." They responded before each one was escorted by two of Luna's guards that were called in and informed of their new orders to assist the Officers.

After they left, Luna eased back into her throne and was smiling somewhat as she saw the last of their Officers disperse to different areas of the castle to assume their new posts accordingly. The three Colonels to oversee the raising of the new Army and the re-training of the remaining one of Luna's troops. The two Brigadier Generals were off to take control of Equestria's government and oversee the distribution of resources to all affected and unaffected areas by the war.

Celestia was grinning as well. She and her sister were enjoying being able to exercise their power and very much so were ecstatic that the Lunar Guard was accepting their new orders. "This is the most fun I've had in a while. Is it not for you as well Sister?"

"Indeed it is. We art most thrilled to be commanding again, even if it beith on for a short while." Luna answered.

Before either could talk further, they were interrupted by the sound of a door opening above them. Both looked up in response, and seeing the large golden doors that heralded a small balcony open they were for the moment surprised at seeing a sleek black Alicorn standing there. He was large, his wings stretching as he looked around with a yawn and slightly droopy, light blue eyes. His mane was short, somewhat ragged; a mix of silver and white, as was his tail as he finally turned his eyes down. They lit up instantly at the sight of the two, but more so towards Luna as she gave him a slightly confused tilt of her head. Leaping down, he landed before her on the steps and was smiling. "Ah, it hast been too long since we last spoke my dearest Princess." He whispered sweetly in her ear.

"Wha...." Was all she managed to say before he was pressing his lips to hers. Taken completely by surprise, all she could do was stare at him with wide eyes as he closed his and leaned further into the kiss.

Celestia was nearly beside herself with shock that this Alicorn; albeit he was a handsome one, was kissing her sister. When he finally broke away from her, he was looking into her eyes happily and noticed she was blushing; but he also took in the fact she was still giving him a shocked look. "What beith wrong my love?" He asked.

This seemed to snap her out of her trance, and in an instant her expression turned to one of anger and disgust as she furiously was smacking him back and forth on the ground and shouting so loud the castle was shaking slightly. "THOU DARE TO STEAL A SMOOCH OF OUR LIPS WITHOUT PERMISSION! THOU SHALT BE PUNISHED FOR THY FOOLISH ENDEAVOR!"

Celestia could do nothing, knowing to interfere would mean she as well would be subjected to injury. Even though they both had great strength, improved even more by Jackson's generous grant of power for joining his order; she knew to attempt to save him would only make it worse as she watched sadly from the throne as the poor Alicorn was slammed again and again into the ground. Blood was flowing when she finally stopped, and he was left in the pool of blood as she stepped away and snarled at him.
"Wha...." He whispered, "Why love?"

"We art most certainly not thy love, nor would we ever be after such a heinous act upon us." Luna said harshly, retaking her seat upon the throne just as she realized that her twin had been watching.

Mekrail was shaking his head and sighing as he eyed the battered Alicorn, while Blueblood was looking surprised as they'd all seen everything that had transpired. "So is this your lover Princess?" He asked, walking into the throne room just as Quicksilver and Karlous arrived.

"Oh my...By Galaxia and Chronos what happened?' She asked, still hugging to Karlous as he surveyed the scene with a grim expression.
Mekrail was kneeling beside the Alicorn now, checking his pulse and finding a weak one. "What's your name son?" He asked, ignoring the Princess who came up beside him.

There was a lot of blood coughing before the Alicorn answered in a whisper. "Eclipse."

"Well then Eclipse, this is going to hurt me a lot more than it's going to hurt you." He whispered in response before he once more called upon his darker powers and began to slowly absorb the injuries back into himself. Deep gashes running all across his body; Bones snapping and breaking, he merely knit his brows and continued until naught an injury remained except for those on himself. "Now get up, I didn't heal you so you could wallow."

Helping him to his hooves, Mekrail wiped away blood that dribbled down his face before turning to the two sisters. "I trust thy had good reason to injure Eclipse, yes?" He asked.

Celestia answered back, more pointedly to Princess Luna. "My sister. She hasn't ever considered love before with anypony, believing her duties outweighed such concerns. Such as this, she never has experienced such affections unlike myself with Lord-Commander Jackson's Field Marshal, Rommel. Him kissing her oversteps her boundaries, and she has always reacted rather angrily to any mention of courtship or such things and this sadly is what results."

"Hm, very well Stewardesses. Thank you for the information." Mekrail answered, shaking his head before going to the downed Thunderhawk and collapsing against it as he tried to focus his advanced body to heal his new injuries.

"Bless you Captain, for healing my love." Luna said, nuzzling Eclipse lightly before turning with a sad look at her twin. "I can understand your reaction...But such violence would've been unnecessary."

Eclipse was still just looking at the two twins like he was crazy, also looking at Mekrail and the others the same way before shaking his head. "If I caused thee any issue dear Luna, I most sincerely apologize for my actions." He bowed slightly, making the twin give him a tiny smile as though he'd already started to redeem himself in her eyes.

"We art sorrowful as well for our actions Eclipse, but thee understands our predicament." She stated, nodding to him somewhat.

"Okay." Karlous said, annoyed slightly before coughing some blood. "so now that this fiasco is out of the way, perhaps all of you would like to explain to my marefriend and I what all we've missed?"

Nitronus found himself at first concerned, but then amused by what had transpired before him. Chuckling quietly to himself he walked past Karlous and looked at the dazed Alicorn, "By the looks of it..." he started to say before he stopped himself midway, "Do you feel that?"

"Feel what?" Karlous replied, before being thrown across the room by an invisible force.

"Sirrus!" Nitronus yelled as he charged the invisible intruder who impaled the old Champion through the chest and out of his backpack with a possessed power sword.

"Brother Nitronus, I see my former chapter has lowered the requirements for their champions." the Chaos marine laughed.

Bringing his head up Nitronus watched as two other chaos marines of similar color, these two with red painted across their black and gold armor unlike Sirrus who had blue, marched past the two foes.

"Don't mind us, we just need to remove the powers that be Luna and Celestia from the alternate universe, you see they are not part of my plan." Sirrus snickered.

"In the name of my Primarch Corax I shall allow no harm to come of these ponies!" Nitronus bellowed before ramming the traitor and making for one of the Korhn Berserkers as he ripped out the power sword and drew his force sword.

"Kill the loyalist scum brothers!" Sirrus commanded before drawing his plasma gun to fire upon Mekrail who had drawn his blade to battle him.

Nitronus dashed past the lesser of the two marines, as he cut off his legs, and turned to find Princess Luna battling, and losing, against the other.

"Thou art not welcome here!" she cried as she was hit by two chain axes.

"Hehe, I'm going to enjoy this, Blood for the Blood God!!!" the familiar voice of Franklin, the former Blood Raptor First Company Captain cried out.

"Franklin, stop playing with the natives and fight someone your own size!" the champion screamed, half in pain half in anger, as he charged his foe.

The traitor champion swung both of his axes outwards to have them lock with the loyalist's blades as they wrestled for dominance. Nitronus' backpack however was shutting down, forcing him to rely upon his muscles alone, which left his bionic immobile. Unable to swing his stolen sword he used all of his might in pushing off the other chain ax.

"You seem to be having trouble Nitronus, I shall enjoy painting these halls for Korhn with your blood and that of these pathetic xenos that you protect." the traitor grinned, his fangs showing.

"FOR CORAX, FOR THE EMPEROR!!!" Nitronus bellowed before punching the chaos champion in the head and sending him into a wall, in which he was embedded into.

The champion was effectively knocked out of the fight as Nitronus fell to the ground, landing on one knee.

"Thank you Nitronus, we owe you our lives." Princess Luna said as she motioned to two badly injured guards from the battle.

"It is my duty to serve those who the Emperor decrees a friend, and as such my actions earlier were not justified." Nitronus paused as he gathered more breath, "For earlier events I have repented, while no chaplain was present, Fluttershy made due."

"Your actions are forgiven, for you have not only repented, but have saved the lives of four of my little ponies and my own." Luna replied with a smile before turning back to where Mekrail and Sirrus now clashed with their fists.

Both marines seemed evenly matched, though Sirrus seemingly knew Mekrails next attack before it was coming. With effort Nitronus stood once more and drew his bolt pistol, carefully aiming it at the traitorous Blood Raptor, he fired three bolts into his chest and head, the latter only grazing his skull. Disoriented from being shot, Sirrus then dropped his guard for a second, in that second Mekrail capitalized and put the marine on the ground.

"Foul traitorous filth, I swear on my oath to the Lion I shall end you next time we meet." Mekrail muttered as he fell back away from Sirrus.
Without the strength to keep the two contained, nor kill them as of yet; he had to allow them to leave as he was helping Karlous and Quicksilver up. "We'll be back soon, to prove you wrong Dark Angel." Sirrus said, rising before swiftly helping his Champion before cutting a hole in the warp and leaping through it.

The portal closed quickly, and left nothing but a dead Chaos Marine and his blood decorating the masonry as Nitronus was limping on his one good leg with the other dragging behind him towards the others. His right arm was hanging at his side, due to his backpack's power failure he was only using his natural strength as he paused before the Sergeant and his love. Karlous was busy at the moment tending to Quicksilver, who had a small gash on her forehead that he was healing. His eyes locked to Mekrail's, whom wasn't smiling at all at him but did nod slightly in respect. "Perfect timing...But this doesn't change anything between us honorless fool." Mekrail then walked away after making sure Eclipse and Princess Luna was alright. He took his place back against the Thunderhawk and closed his eyes as he sighed in annoyance.

Karlous meanwhile, shared another loving kiss with Quicksilver after healing her injury and with her help rose to his feet. Stagger-walking to Nitronus, he weakly patted his shoulder guard before shaking his head as he gestured to Mekrail. "See what I told you, it shall take much more to convince him." He whispered, moving around his back and looking over his power pack. "I have something in my Thunderhawk brother Nitronus, you can take my powerpack for now."

Quickly removing the Champion's backpack, he set it on the ground before replacing it with his own with Quicksilver's help. "There. Now you won't be dragging about any longer." He gave Nitronus a smile before walking slowly with Quicksilver around to the side door of the Thunderhawk and stepping inside.

Nitronus tested his limbs before nodding as he retreated away from the Thunderhawk, and the Dark Angel, as to not be, intrusive towards him.

Jackson nodded faintly in response, a smile finally curling his lips as a single tear ran from his normal eye. "Thank you..." He whispered, addressing Tempest and seemingly another as he rose slowly from his chair.

Turning slightly, his eyes set across the room as though waiting. Tempest could see past him, see what he saw; and Joshua was watching intently as well from his seat. Eyes to the exact same place as though drawn to the same area in front of the massive bed like his friend. Within minutes, a nearly blinding white light split the very air, making the Inquisitor cringe slightly by the pure feelings of holiness that erupted; but Jackson remained intensely focused on the light as he began to take tiny steps towards it. By the time the light had dimmed to manageable levels and look upon what spawned it, one could see a towering swirling portal flanked by intricately carved columns and topped by a small roof that bore the symbol of twin Angels crossing swords. A slight breeze emerged, chilling the Inquisitor through his armor but not phasing Jackson in the slightest as he drew closer to it. At last, whatever created this swirling portal emerged; and both she and Jackson were breaking into a run towards each other.

"Dashie!" Jackson called.

"Jackson!" Dash responded before the two collided; clinging into one being, indivisible.

She laid atop him, kissing him deeply while hugging tight to his chest; her hoof band clinking against the stone floor. He in response embraced her back, pressing his lips further into hers and closing his eyes as she did. At that moment, one could see the small ring that resembled her hoof band as his robes slid down his arms; and one could notice the glowing halo as the portal disappeared as mysteriously as it came. Her wings; spread wide, were much larger now and a deep, fluffy white as she drew back and looked into his eyes happily.

"Oh Jackson..." She whispered, "I've been waiting for this day for thirty-three years and it's everything I've dreamed and more."

"Me too my lovely Dashie..." Before she could respond, he silenced her with another kiss as Joshua shook his head and smiled for them. "Oh it feels so good to be in your hooves again my love..." He said softly.

Joshua finally glanced to Tempest, wondering just what the old General was thinking as he called upon his Empathic powers; and yet this proved impossible as his mind was bombarded by the sheer love emanating off of Jackson and Dash. His head was hurting so much from it that he felt like he'd pass out as he stopped using his limited abilities and instead returned to watching the two as they rose hesitantly from the ground. Both still hugging tightly to each other and sharing loving kisses, forgetting the rest of the world around them as Joshua looked to Tempest again to gauge the General's response to this.

Joshua nodded faintly in response, looking to the set on the table before him before his eyes settled back on Dash and Jackson. "I do not mean to interrupt your long awaited reunion my friends, but perhaps you Miss Dash might desire a spot of tea to refresh yourself from the journey."

Tempest watched as a angelic Rainbow Dash lovingly kissed Jackson, part of him was distraught, but his more reasonable side reasoned that this was his realms Dash and that he had no competition for his marefriend. Sighing Tempest stood up and walked slowly toward the two lovers before standing silently before them. Glancing at Joshua, who was still smiling, Tempest darted his eyes to the tea and the happy couple.

Dash finally broke her eyes away from Jackson, looking confused at the Lord-Inquisitor before realizing what he had asked. She blushed lightly in response as she felt her throat and how dry it was. "Yeah, I could sure use something for my throat. It's as dry as a bone, I was just wanting to get back to my love so badly that I forgot about my own needs." She glanced back to Jackson, who nodded in understanding before releasing her from his embrace and she doing the same.

"It's alright love, I've waited thirty-three years, I can wait a few minutes more." He whispered to her before pecking her cheek lightly and gesturing her to go to the table.

Just as she was heading to acquire said tea from Joshua, whom had poured her a cup; the sounds of shouting besides that of Luna and Celestia earlier was heard. Weapons clashing and firing echoed, reaching the ears of everyone in the room as Joshua was already on his feet and moving to the door. Jackson gave a slightly confused look, but judging from the emotions he could sense of his Stewardesses there was trouble as he looked to Dash. "Guess we'll pick up where we left off in a bit love, let's go." He said, hugging her close before his glowing red eye flashed and they dispersed into the shadows.

Tempest silently moved alongside Joshua as they left the chamber with its two ghost guards in close pursuit. Tempest paying no mind towards the inquisitor as they rushed through the secret halls that lined the interior of the mountain.

Upon arrival, all that Jackson and Dash saw from the shadows was the carnage wreaked from the fight as he surveyed the throne room. His expression was cold, and Dash was looking over the others with a slight frown before shaking her head at the thought that such things happened here as well. "Jackson. Dash. That you my old friends?" Mekrail asked, looking to the shadows where they'd emerged.

"Yes Mekrail." Jackson replied, watching as the ancient marine moved slowly from the Thunderhawk to him before fist-bumping him.

"It's been a while since we last saw each other...wasn't that a few years ago on..." Mekrail scratched his head as though trying to conjure a fuzzy memory; but alas could not as he shook his head and looked to Dash.

"It's awesome to see you again bud." Dash said, hovering up into the air and getting a bro-hoof from him.

"Likewise." Mekrail responded before turning to a door behind the thrones where Joshua emerged and was studying everyone with his combat knife gripped at his side.

"Missed the fun, did I?" He sighed, moving past the two sisters and stopping at the bottom of the stairs near his brethren and friends. "Nitronus, what happened here?" He asked, studying the Champion closely as somehow he sensed that he knew more about this than the others.

Tempest looked down upon the Champion before turning his attention to the dead body of a chaos marine, "Seems as though Luna's fears are now justified."

"Fears of the forces of Chaos general?" Joshua replied as he looked to his new friend.

"Indeed." Tempest quietly replied as he walked up to the shattered remains of the dead marine, "Champion, who is this?"

"That is a traitor belonging to the Blood Raptor Warband that severed itself from my adopted chapter shortly after they became lost in a warp storm." Nitronus replied, earning a glare from Mekrail.

"Your chapter had a heresy?" Joshua asked, mostly just to confirm.

"Yes, before I joined them, these traitors plague us wherever we go, using the warp to throw xenos and even other warbands upon us." Nitronus replied as he slowly turned to face his allies.

Tempest nodded to Luna and Eclipse before walking into a spot of shadows and vanishing from the throne room.

Trayclian was a very patient man. Time. Many, many millennia had taught him this most important of virtues as he waited on the steps of the grand entrance to the castle. Here, he was waiting for the arrival of his brothers and friends still in town; waiting before he would leave off for anywhere without them. Sitting at his side, he knew still was Twilight. The mare had proven to be an amiable companion, as always she was inquisitive like he was; asking questions even still to him about his Universe. He'd smile and answer them, passing the time as he patiently waited. His Hammer still held in one arm, he was carefully examining the psychic damage that had devastated the once beautiful weapon's entire being. The long, flowing cracks pulsated with a darkness so familiar, and so nearly free as he sighed and returned his attention once more to Twilight.

"May I ask you where you came from, specifically Mr. Trayclian?" She asked, watching him intently as he rose.

"I suppose I could share such knowledge." He replied, "But perhaps over a walk through town hm? I'd like to see where my friends are."

"Sounds good to me." She responded, joining him to her hooves before he set off at a leisurely pace.

"I hail from the planet of Holy Terra." He said, "The birthplace of all mankind and the Emperor himself, Terra. It was a magnificent, grand place; at least after the Emperor came and united us all." He paused as they came to an intersection, of which he smiled at a few groups of ponies and bid them good day before going down the way to his right. "I personally hailed from Terra's capital city, a place of industry and smog and harsh conditions. But the people who lived there were good men and women, hardy and strong and kind. They raised me up, even though I lived on the streets most of my childhood and teen years; and when I was a young man the word came of the Great Crusade and the need of able men to answer the call. I did, and I was initiated into what became known as the First Legion of the Adeptus Astartes."

At last, Trayclian ceased speaking; as his eyes caught on to Maximus ahead. He was between Derpy and Scootaloo, which made him smile slightly as he continued walking towards them with a friendly wave to get their attention.

Seeing the Librarian wave them down, Maximus tore himself from watching Scootaloo's latest piece of technology and quickened his pace towards his fellow marine. The Chaplain held out his hand and shared an arm lock with his brother before gesturing back at the two ponies with him. Scoots machine whistling uncontrollably before puffing out a little smoke and settling down in a robotic arm that came off the top of her right shoulder.

"Well it wasn't supposed to do that..." she remarked as she looked it over for damage.

"I'm not even sure what it is Scootaloo..." Derpy replied, as she smiled up towards Trayclian.

Trayclian chuckled quietly at witnessing the small machine and how it had acted upon activation. "Nopony ever gets it right the first time young one." He said, patting her head before gesturing to the machine. "May I?"

Scootaloo seemed unsure, to which the Librarian reassured her with a smile. "I would like to study it a bit closer for a moment, if you'd allow me."

"Alright....I guess no harm done since it is a bit damaged." She replied, raising he mechanical arm to the Librarian's level.

He took the small device, itself dwarfed in his enormous gauntlet as his eyes scanned over the device intensely. For several minutes, he did this in complete silence; nothing disturbed him as he turned and worked over the small device's every surface and even disassembled it once before putting it back together. "Interesting." Was all he said before passing it back to Scootaloo.

Looking to Maximus, a flare of the Warp seemed to spike him as he glanced to his left and slashed a rift into the Warp with ease. Once more, he reached through it, grumbling a few times as he gripped his hammer tighter in his free hand. It pulsed darker and the cracks spread wider for a moment before returning to their original positions as he withdrew with a larger, motorized skull that floated above his gauntlet. The skull seemed to be looking hauntingly, both with its hollow eye socket and the glowering bionic one over its right temple. Upon its forehead, it bore an archaically painted Dark Angels insignia. A small claw for grasping items of import jutted from beneath its teeth, and a few anti-gravity stabilizers kept it aloft as it scanned about before stopping upon Trayclian. The Librarian was smiling, although he was slightly tired for reasons that would remain unknown to the others before him as he glanced to Scootaloo. "Your machine just reminded me of my old Servo-Skull young one. Very similar indeed, although yours I'd say needs a little work and a much stronger base than any metal could give you."

The Servo-Skull seemed to sputter and spew mechanical chatter and screech in incomprehensible tones before settling down in its Master's hand. "Yes, yes Angelus I hear you my friend. Activate protocol 23" He patted it gently before sending it over to Scootaloo, where it whirled around her at a fast speed before stopping in front of her face. Its bionic eye emitted a large grid that scanned over her entire being before flashing a green light and nodding slightly.

"Angelus says he consents to being studied for the time being, and that he would like to study both you and Derpy." Trayclian said, smiling as he glanced to Derpy and pulled the steaming muffin he'd also brought through the rift out and tossed it to her.

And speaking of the rift, it was taking all his strength to keep it safe now that the hammer had ceased lending its strength. He quickly forced it to close before Daemons managed to enter into his private tunnel in the Immaterium.

"Hmm, well aren't you interesting bub?" Scoots said as she looked over Angelus.

The skull sputtered a few times, which made the young engineer smile before opening up her creation. All the while Maximus looked at the ancient hammer, though he just shrugged at Trayclian when he looked his way. Instead the Chaplain pulled the wagon that had been hidden behind his form closer to the group and began sorting its contents.

"What have ye there brother chaplain?" Traclian asked, peering down at the many different items within the confines of the wagon.

Maximus picked up an object that resembled a weapon, a melta gun to be precise, and set it down gently to his left and next to a weapon sharing many traits with a plasma gun.

"So young Scootaloo seems to have a knack for constructing things similar to what we have." Trayclian stated, glancing at the orange mare.

Maximus nodded, but seemed to be in an almost trance like state when he uncovered something unlike anything else in the pile. Picking up the suite of armor he gave it an intense look over before setting it upon its hooves. From its elegantly crafted contour lines and leaf patterns the suite shined with its blue steel finish gleaming in the sun.

"Impressive." Derpy said from behind them, as she shot a look over to Scootaloo who had just closed her project after tinkering with it alongside the servo skull.

"Want to see how all this stuff works?" Scoots asked as her servo bot flew into the air and began scanning everything with a series of beeps and boops.

She gently picked up the melta gun and set it upon a four legged brace before aiming it at a steel target. Placing a charge into it she stepped back and pulled on the cord connected to the trigger, causing the experimental gun to fire a stream of hot metal clean through the the steel target before the gun exploded.

"Scoots!" Derpy yelled as Maximus ripped out his bolters and obliterated the weapon.

Despite being caught completely off guard at the sudden explosion; and with the smoke still clouding the air from the weapon's demise, Trayclian's eyes snapped straight to the site of ground zero. His advanced sight cut straight through the smoke; and upon the grisly sight that laid on the ground, blood pooling round her ruined body was Scootaloo. Fragments of the weapon and its hostler remained embedded in her broken body, her flanks and hind legs were completely gone along with most of her left side, as he caught the faint scent of blood over the hot metal and powder in the air. It was like a snap, what happened next; and Twilight watched on in fear for her young friend's life as the Librarian's right eye became a solid black. Dark cracks spread out from it, but halted a few inches out from their origin across his face as the hammer pulsated dangerously.

Even his voice was different, more malevolent and commanding, ancient and yet still retaining a shell of its former lightness and human qualities as he kneeled before her ruined body. "Now is not your day." He rasped, his gauntlet placed just above her before the same dark energy began to radiate down towards her.

It encased her wounded areas, not healing them but stopping the injuries progression and the bleeding as he slammed his hammer into the ground and looked to his Servo-Skull. "Find a life-sustaining piece of equipment now Angelus!" He bellowed, and the Skull obeyed immediately as it began scanning everything that Maximus had brought along.

Quickly, it returned before pointing with its claw towards the suit of armor. All it received was a grunt of acknowledgement and a nod before the Librarian raised his free hand and captured it within a light aura of the same darkness. It hovered over to him, pausing next to his hammer before he released it and forced it to open. Without hesitation, he lifted Scootaloo into position before gently guiding her into the suit; ensuring a good fit before he closed it back around her. With its systems activating, he finally released his power's grip on her completely and forced the injuries to seal as they were and heal.

Finally, he withdrew from her side, clutching at his dark eye and letting out an annoyed huff as he took up his hammer again in one hand. Turning quickly, he fled from them all while doing his best to conceal his eye with his psychic hood from the ponies around him that he passed. all the while, Twilight was glancing between Scootaloo and the Librarian down the road; trying to decide whether or not to stay with them or go after him. She looked especially to Scootaloo, waiting for an answer before she would go anywhere. The Skull also hovered beside her, checking her vitals via deep scan and ensuring she was okay before spouting a few bits f mechanical chatter as though asking a question of whether or not it could go to its Master.

Maximus turned his attention to Scootaloo and just waved off Twilight and the Servo Skull before he picked the wounded mare up and cradled her to his chest.

"But!" Twilight stammered as the Skull began flying off towards its master.

Maximus merely shot her a look as he stood up slowly and walked away, Derpy payed the princess no mind as she gathered up Scoot's belongings and chased after Maximus. Twilight then spread her wings and took off towards where the librarian had gone off to, following his massive foot prints in the dirt.

The trekking through the immense, snowy tundra thus far had been an easy one; the icy wind and pelting of snow shrugged off with ease by the Assassin. Telios had been through far, far worse; and then he had endured and made his kill before slipping away undetected. The trail had been so very effortless to follow; but knowing his brother it had been purposefully set to show him the way as he crunched the fresh snow under his boots, shuffling quickly along as the snow continued to pile up around his sides.

Before long, there were the wisps of fire that could be seen far ahead in the blizzard. Fire, that undoubtedly was unnatural as it should've been stamped out by the harsh conditions. Without hesitation, Telios took off for it as fast as he could; although now his steps were more measured and silent as he approached. His vision more clear, the objects in question around these fires now seen through his scope; he realized that this was where his friend and brother Rekriel had stopped. Seeing the two others, Black Templars, was a bit off-putting to him; but he put that aside as he noticed Elizabeth standing off to the side. His attention, his full attention was on her for the moment as a faint smile came and remained on the Assassin's face.

At last, he rose; and with his rifle strapped to his side he marched forth in the snow until he was just in sight of those that waited at the foot of the wreckage. "Another Heretic to purge!" Initiate Stanton proclaimed, raising his heavy bolter to fire upon Telios.

Moving swiftly, the Champion had drawn his blade and was preparing to charge the intruder; but before Stanton could unleash his fury Rekriel was detaining him with a quick slam of his servo-arm against the weapon and then to the Initiate's chest he was floored. The Champion had not the time to react to the lesser of two evils, and so was almost prepared to slice the Assassin's head from his shoulders when he deflected the blade deftly. "Heretic Assassin! I will destroy you for all you did to my Chapter!" Before he could say more, a paralyzing strike; Telios first hauled the Champion up with a blow to his helm, before putting him to his knees with a hit to his gut; and lastly, he ended it all with a smash to the back of his head.

With him floored, Telios drew his pistol in a smooth motion and whispered coldly in his ear, "If I'd wanted to kill you, I'd have done it Templar. I don't know what my fellow Assassins have done to your Chapter, but I know I've never harmed both directly or indirectly any of your brethren in my long life. Now, you can accept my hand, or i'll blow your brains into the snow if you prefer; and your initiate will follow."

Seeing no other choice; and not wishing to condemn the young Initiate to death alongside him just to settle an old score, the Champion reluctantly relented as he grasped the Assassin's hand firmly. He was hauled to his feet, and Stanton shrugged off the servo-arm and glared at the Techmarine. "You make a solid point Assassin...I shall...try to restrain myself and my Initiate from now on."

"Good." Telios replied, looking first to his friend who was staring stoically back before he glanced to Elizabeth.

She too, it would seem, was silent and observing the scene that had unfolded. However, there was a hint of a smirk; perhaps at the fate of the two Templars, the Assassin guessed. This was not of his concern however. What was, happened to be of her well being as he moved past the Champion and looked her over thoroughly. She seemed okay, to which made him smile a little more than before. But, prior to hinting any more than the faint blush that showed he moved away to the wreckage just as the Champion moved closer to her and spoke up in a questioning tone, "What's his deal with you Sister Elizabeth? You and that Dark Angel both?"

Stanton didn't take notice of his brother and commander's questions as he was actually in the middle of observing Rekriel as the age-old marine repaired the damage done by his subduing moments ago. But Telios did, and he awaited her answer as he leaned against the ruins of the Valkyrie; the firelight reflecting off of his eyes and giving much more luminescence to the deeply embedded scars that formed the Aquila across his seemingly young face.

Elizabeth stood there and stared for a moment at the champion before she gave a faint smile and walked toward the Astartes who questioned her, "That man is an Imperial Assassin, who is in the service of an Lord Inquisitor, best that you show him respect." she spat. Then turned around, "And you know what my order would do to you if you strike a loyalist, do you not?" she added.

This silenced the champion who looked between the sister and Dark Angel now with higher senses, trying to decipher if she spoke the truth. But before he could study them to closely three Termigaunts shot out from the white surrounding the five humans.

"Xenos!" Elizabeth screamed as she drew her twin chainswords and locked them against the front most appendages of the closest Termigaunt.

"Purge them!" Stanton roared as he blasted away upon the insect like xenos that were besieging them.

Reginald filled in the last grave and set his borrowed shovel down before turning to Breaburn, "What now pony?"

"I reckon that we should all get someplace safe from those... things that ya'll fought off." he replied as he loaded up a cart with the last of the towns supplies and ponies.

"I believe that you would be wise to do so, perhaps Canterlot then?" Discord asked him.

"Rightly so my friend." the brown pony replied.

"Canterlot?" Reginald questioned as he picked up his lance and strode up to his two travel partners.

"Equestria's capitol Chapter Master, you shall get to meet Princess Luna, Oh she is going to love you!" Discord chimed as a box appeared in his hand and he squeezed himself next to the ancient marine as the box flashed, "Ooh, that's a keeper!"

"Can you take anything serious spirit?" the Chapter Master questioned to himself as he began walking away from the ruined town with the ponies close behind, Discord flew ahead of them humming an unfamiliar tune.