An Elite Guardian

A week. That is how long it has been since I escaped, and my group of four, myself included in that count have been following Twilight to try and find that area that would show the Flame masters- as I call them due to those pillars of fire-are returning. Fleur and Rainbow were with us, resulting in two of Harmony's champions-myself and Fleur, apparently- and four awol soldiers.

Currently, we were in the Everfree forest, near the old castle of Celestia and Luna. Night had fallen over the land, and we were inside the castle so as to both hide from Luna's sight via her use of the moon, and from any of the creatures within the forest, with each of us taking watches in case of a guard patrol or a large animal came by.

It was near the end of my watch when Harmony spoke to me. If only Celestia wasn't so damned paranoid, we wouldn't be here.

No, we wouldn't be here. You aren't here at all, Harmony, I replied. Hey, she said to consider her a friend and to talk to her as one. Still, you are correct. Everything here happened because of Celestia, even if that doesn't matter anymore.

Oh? And what does?

The fact the Flame masters are quite possibly returning, and even if that is the case, an alliance is unlikely between the Empire and Equestria.

Maybe, Harmony commented. But I've been in the minds of the soldiers, and-among various dreams I will not mention due to privacy and my own sanity- I know that each of them know your my champion, and would follow you, even if it means having to work with their enemy.

i rolled my eyes. And if i die, they'll be worse off than when I arrived, I shot back. I much prefer the show universe to this. Every problem is solved in around a day at least, a week at max.

I heard a mental chuckle. I suppose that is fair, Harmony replied. Don't worry, though. You are not my only champion in the multiverse. There are others, each of whom would be willing to help you if need be.

I will keep it in mind. So, what of the actual Elements here? Are those that bore them in the show still worthy in this universe?

Somewhat, Harmony confirmed. Two, to be accurate. The other four, not the case.

Any I know for them?

A chuckle. Yes, but I must have some secrets. You'll have to discover which is which on your own, Ruso.

I rolled my eyes. Of course. I've fought what the average pony considers a god-with good reason, I might add- and still, the powers that be do not give me a break. I sighed. Can you tell me anything about the flame masters?

Yes, the goddess replied. Their actual name is "Ifrit", and, barring death by blade or poison, they are as long lived as an alicorn, but have a small birthrate. Much of their armed forces are those converted to their race, often unwillingly. As such, their overall military is larger than Equestria's or the Empire's, even combined, and much deadlier, as they can shapeshift into just about everything, including dragons. The title you give them, "Flame masters" is appropriate, as they have almost complete control over plasma.

I notice you said almost, I pointed out. What do you mean?

It is not easy to explain, Ruso, but, to simplify, they control raw plasma, such as flames running amok or lightning. Anything not in an electromagnetic field, such as your blades, can not be. They can not be manipulated because of the shaping field around them. Magical flames, however, they are able to easily control. It is why Celestia will, to put in bluntly, be worth shit against them. All her spells contain trace amounts of flame magic, just enough to where the Ifrit can control it, and make it useless.

And how can they influence others?

Honestly, I do not know, Harmony replied. At least, not entirely. What I do know is that it involves separating some of their essence, and using it to control another. Think those brainworms from that science fiction show you watched.

I shuddered. You did not need to say that. That was my first connection. Always did find those things creepy as hell. Anyway to stop it?

No, other than full body, vacuum sealed suits.

I gave a flat stare. Now I wish I was dressed in Ranger armor from Halo 4. After all, it is usable in space.

I have a few allies who are technologically gifted, Harmony said. I'll see if I can get them to work on anything for you and the others.

My thanks, I said with a habitual head bow. Anything else i should know now?

No, other than be cautious. Celestia thinks you all are with Sombra and Luna, while they still think you are with Celestia. Chances are they'll try to strike you down. Believe me. If the Equestrias are to have a chance, you need to survive.

Wait, "Equestrias"? I asked, but got no reply. Figures. The universe and the powers that be do indeed hate me.