Renegade For the Future

by MaskedPony

Rating: teen
Tags: Dark, Alternate Universe, Sad, Other, Original Character, Science Fiction, Tragedy, Princess Celestia, Slice of Life, Main 6, Princess Luna, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
Length: 17392

Upon waking up and discovering that their rouge Project caused a soon to be all out war, Two Renegades join the Equestrian resistance to protect Equestria and Equus from a insane project leader

Set in the far distant future of Equestria in the year 2097, where peace and harmony is in vein and at war, Merc Lance, A mare with cybernetic implants awakens from a long slumber in the Project Horselance hidden Facility. When waking up, she and her friend, Web Intel, learn what the project has done. To their demise, they learn what their projects true goal is

Upon escaping into the futuristic world and backstabbing the Director of their project, they learn that not only the nation they once lived in has changed, but soon learn things have changed since Horselance was created. What's worse, a whole world war is bound to happen. Equestria is in vein with the directors dictatorship goal.

Feeling guilty for joining the rouge project, Merc and Web join the fight with the resistance and aid those who have lost trust with their rulers. However, when the project soon sets them as a target for termination, and a rumor is heard that the projects director has a secret hidden, a secret that leads to what made him truly insane. Making her goal to kill the director, Merc journeys through the badlands to take any means nessasary to stop Horselance and kill the director once and for all.

Will she succeed with her mission, or will She, Web, the Mane 6, and the Desecended 6 die by the hoofs of The Director?

Published 2016-05-27 21:50:01 UTC
Last updated 2016-09-19 23:54:05 UTC

Prelude: rise of two Renegades

Long ago, Equestria was different as it is today. During those times technology was not that common in that day of the era. Unlike today, where we have heroes among the country of today, there were six heroes that protected the land. They were known, as the Mane 6. For years, even when they were the Elements of Harmony, they protected Equestria from many perils, from freeing the Princess of the Night, to ceasing a Chaos craze creature, ending a rogue King, and aiding in the reimprisonment of a Centaur. They faced many perils and became heroes to Equestria, even after reforming two of their enemies.

But, when Equestria was saved again, they suddenly vanished. They became part of the future project along with other selected individuals. With them gone, time passed on and new heroes took their place fulfilling what they have done. In this day of age, no one spoke of them, as if they were dead.

But, all time of peace came to a sudden halt when a rogue organisation known as Project Horselance, was established by a mysterious stallion who goes by the name, The Director. Equestria and nearly all of Equus began to enter a war. As time was flowing, Horselance was growing stronger. Many ponies decided to remain in their home towns for sometime while the resistance and the princesses of the sun and moon were trying their hardest to fight back. But, what they never expected, was a new hero was in the horizon. One hero, with Cybernetics that can stop the war and bring back what the Six have bought.

2096
Equestria Badlands
Project Horselance Facility

Amidst the daylight, a lone facility stood towering in an area where ponies fear to tread. Among the other places in Equestria, this area became infamous day by day. While this area was feared, mysterious ships were flying in, and out of the mysterious facility. Even some that looked like they were caught in a firefight. When the ships landed, troops of ponies, wounded, scarred, and broken got off and proceeded for debriefing.

Inside the facility, in an office on the top floor of the Facility, a lone unicorn with a black mane and black suit was sitting in a chair. His eyes were glancing at the holographic computer. He was glancing at the mission status of a squad that recently got back. Every bit of info from their last missions, had him smiling, but looking in disappointment that some troops were successful, some were failures due to wounds, and even some were now KIA.

As he continued looking at the stats, he didn't hear the doors open and close. Even he didn’t notice the pony that had walked in since he was was too busy looking at the screen. When the pony approached the desk, The Director caught a glimpse of who it was. "You wanted to see me, Director?" The mare asked.

The Director, turning off his holo-computer, looked at the mare and smiled. "Yes, have a seat, Web Intel," he replied as he got up facing the window.

Taking a seat, Web began to wonder why the director summoned her. A lot of questions were flowing through her head while trying to piece together as to why. The Director, however, began to face Web. Although he was wearing tinted glasses, Web could tell he was looking at him with seriousness. "Your friend, Merc Lance, what do you remember about her?" He asked as he took a seat facing her.

Hearing this question made Web think back to her friend. Reminiscing, she remembers she met her at a local bar in San Flanksisco. When they met, she saw she was in a wheelchair because of the fact that she was born with a birth defect of being born without a front right leg, making her only have three legs. Since they became friends, Web was always there for her and even created something special for her.

"Well, I remember we met at a local bar. I been there for her since then, and....created her cybernetics so she doesn't feel that she doesn't have a missing arm and hoof. Why are you asking, sir?"

Thinking quick, The Director turned on his computer and went to a certain list. Within the list shows individuals that were in Cryogenic slumber. Individuals that were selected for this program were put into Cryo tubes and put into sleep mode till they are needed for service, or when their wake-up period is. One name appeared in one part of the list. "You see, your friend, Merc Lance, is going to wake up today. And I was thinking maybe you could do the honours of waking her up? After she heals, I will give you two a special mission."

Hearing the news, Web was surprised. Her friend, her best friend, was about to wake up. Not only did she feel happy, she felt excited. Ever since Merc and Web joined Horselance, Merc was dubbed by many of the soldiers as one of the toughest and fearless soldiers. Even since she has a cybernetic, she was one. Web, however, was an expert with weapons and was always a team with Merc; not only that but she also modifies Merc's cybernetic with weapon upgrades and such.

Along with this, Web was put in slight Cryosleep and woke up early so she could wait for her friend to wake up. Smiling, she looked at The Director. "I would love to wake my friend up. Where is her Cryo Pod again?” She asked

"Cryo Bay, sector 7. Anyway, you are dismissed, Web. I will contact the Cryo Bay staff to await your arrival before they begin the waking process."

With that, Web began to head out as The Director called the Cryo area to tell em. After the call, The Director then looked out the window and saw the various cities of Equestria. "Those two tyrants are going to pay." He grumbled to himself. “Soon…”

Days Later
Planning the Stakeout

The past eight days went very well. Since Merc has woke up from her Cryo sleep, Web took her into her care for her to heal. Over the course of a few days, Web was making sure that there was no damage to Merc’s Cybernetic. During the healing days, Merc had to rely on her friend to help her recover after being in Cryo for many years. Since then, she has been happy that her friend was taking care of her.

On the eighth day, Web and Merc went to the training simulation chamber. While walking there, Merc and Web began to talk about things they love to talk about. Occasionally, Web and Merc love to gossip about future missions or what they did before joining the project, but they were discussing something serious.

When they go to the training chamber, Web was starting up the training process since The Director didn't want Merc to be down due to being in Cryo, they began to talk more. "...So, you think something is up with the project, Web?" Merc asked curiously while on her private visor channel with Web.

"Yes, I have noticed some....well, weird things whenever a mission is a failure, even coming from The Director," Web replied as she started the program, and saw Merc training.
As she began training to refresh her skills, Merc could tell that Web was serious, although this was pretty unusual coming from Web, she could tell she was up to something. Whenever missions happen, they are categorised as a Success, Failure, Abandoned, or Fail due to KIA. To Merc, she didn't know what Web was talking about because she was in Cryo.

Questions filled her mind on why Web was talking about this. What was her friend up to? How come she brought this up? These questions were lingering in her mind like an endless stream flowing through the Los Pegasus river. Ever since she was part of the project, she hated discussing these type of things. "What type of things?" Merc asked worriedly

"Well, I noticed every time a mission failed, The Director becomes ticked or mad instead of his usual "there will be a next time" Or, "don't let the failure bother you. Nopony is a failure in my book". It's like… It’s like something about Equestria is making him mad."

Eliminating the next target and waiting for the next round, Merc began to think. "Could it relate to something that he wants in Equestria? I mean, it's...not like he's keeping a secret....would he?"

Hearing this from Merc's mouth, Web began to think. Since they joined, The Director always said he wants to make Equestria a better place. When she and Web went on a mission in 2075, Equestria kept resisting, as if there was something wrong with the project. Not only that, but every time the elements of harmony were bought up by one of the troops, The Director kept stating they died and that Horselance will be the next successor of the Elements of Harmony. Disturbingly, Web one time found a Horselance soldier who was going crazy and had to be hospitalised, even saying that he wants to leave the project.

Thinking of everything, Web remembered two rooms that were labelled off limits in the facility. "Merc, I think we should do a stakeout. We need to find out what's going on." Web stated.

"You sure?" Merc replied while fighting the simulated enemy troops.

"I'm sure."

"Then....count me in."

Now that the plan for a Stakeout was out of the way, Merc began to train more. As the training became complete after four to five rounds, Merc and Web began to head to the facilities break room. Knowingly, they would be going out on a mission in two to three weeks. What they never realised was That the info they will find was soon to be info that could lead to them fighting for what's right.

Author's Note

Hope you guys enjoy this new fic, and first chapter.

I do have to admit I never planned on making a fic like this before, but, I do need to blame EStories/Think Pink of Deviantart for giving me the idea after he continuously mentioning that he is going to make a 2nd Fallout Equestria. So, shouts to him I guess

Anyway, this is not related to Fallout Equestria if your curious, all I do know of it is its OC, but I never read the fic at all. I heard of it but, I never read it, I'm not lying when I am saying this.

To...also explain why I excluded the, well, healing process of Merc, there is a reason. It's due to the fact, if you look in certain fics I done, "that is the reason", because in the healing segment, "that" was supposed to be involved with the healing process, so, I decided to cut the healing segment out to avoid something that would be problematic. Please understand this is just to avoid fights.

Anyway, please excuse grammer problems, or errors, if there....are errors or Grammer mistakes I overlooked, I will look into getting a Proof Reader or editor. You can Volenteer to be one if you want, I don't mind.

Lastly, PLEASE don't be hating or posting comments that are irrelevant to the fic, like relating to my other works, those comments will be deleted. I do enjoy feedback either positive or negative (which will help me improve depending on the negative comment), but please keep hate to yourself. I don't want to have a comment warfare going on. I will allow helpful tips and such to help improve the fic.

Chapter 2: Dim light in a Dark Time

The Equestria Badlands, once a beautiful landscape known to Equestria, now turned into a feared land where ponies fear to tread. Over the years, while the war was going on, safe routes protected by shields were made for those to avoid entering the badlands and putting innocent lives in danger. Scattered within the badlands were dead rotting corpses of those who have fallen serving the Equestria and Equus Resistance Armada, and those of Project Horselance. Along the bodies were guns, even high tech guns. The most feared part of the badlands, was that Horselance sometimes roams the lands.

Merc and Web, we're now seen driving in their WT through the badlands. Although they could just drive on the safe route where other pony drivers drive to get to various of cities, they decided against it. The last thing they wanted was absolute chaos on the road and ponies freaking out that a Horselance Vehicle was on the roads. Even leading to various of accidents and causing the route to be closed down.

As they were driving through the Badlands, Merc saw a lot of what Horselance caused. Glimpsing at each of the bodies that are now slowly decaying into nothing but bones, Merc began to think if these poor souls had family members, or even children that now have to deal with the lost of their loved ones in The Great War. Not noticing, Merc felt Web rubbing her neck. "Don't worry, this isn't our fault," Web assured.

"Web....just look, we turned the landscape into a war zone. I mean, we are the enemy. W-we caused this."

"Merc, don't worry, they won't hurt us, we have info on Horselance. Just trust me, they will listen, we might be able to help out with preparing attacks on Horselance."

Although Merc was afraid of being killed for being a Renegade of Project Horselance, her friend bought an interesting but valid point. Even though they are considered enemies to the resistance, they be able to help the resistance fight Horselance. While driving, they saw a lot of the destruction Horselance caused. From damaged or destroyed WT's, JT-42s, destroyed pony tanks, all the destruction, was like very traumatic to see. Once when Merc and Web were out on the field for duty, they saw a fellow Horselance soldier, who happened to be a top rank soldier, get shot in the the throat, and ended up in critical condition, and losing the ability to speak.

Thinking of everything that happened, they began to think that the director was some kind of crazy psychopathic sociopath that was hungry for power. Although he showed some signs that he might have some sort of problem, Web on the other hoof, began to think there was some kind of deep secret The Director was hiding, not only that, but he never even told the troops what his name was. All they referred to him as was, Sir, Boss, and Director.

At one point,, they began to make a pitstop near one of the towns, a town they both remember from Equestria history, the town of Ponyville, it was the town where the bearers of the Elements of Harmony lived. Although in the modern days, Ponyville was just a simple town unlike major cities, even though missing a library during one of the most well known historical catastrophic events, but now, it's a more futuristic type of town.

Stopping at a store in the town and parking, Merc and Web got out of the Vehicle, and began to walk into the store. Within the store, they saw a pony who happens to be wearing official E.E.R.A Armor talking with a pony behind the counter as Merc and Web were browsing for food for their trip to Canterlot. they kept hope that their logo doesn't stir trouble. While talking, the counter pony saw them. Even the Horselance symbol, that seeming looks like it's been Scratched off, as if, something was up. "H...HORSELANCE!" the Counter pony shrieked as the other pony pointed a high tech rifle at them.

Merc was the first to go in self defense mode with her cybernetic. "Eh woahwoahwoah, chill, lower your weapon. We are renegades."

The pony, pointing the weapon, to laugh sarcastically as if it was a joke. "I call Bull. I recognize that symbol. You both are under arrest for terrorism."

Fearing for arrest, Web then walked up to Merc and lowered her cybernetic and used her device to put it into safe mode. The Pony was looking at them curiously, even at the cybernetic. To her, she saw ponies using normal weapons, but a pony with a Cybernetic wasn't something she usually saw, even during a time where peace is at vain. "Merc is telling the truth, we have info of Project Horselance. We found their true goals and stole ‘em, and we betrayed ‘em so we can fight with the resistance to end the project."

Upon hearing this, the Pony lowered her weapon. They had Info of project Horselance that they actually stole from their formal army? Questions were filling her mind. If they did this, how were they not killed? How did they escape? These questions were filling her mind up like how one asks how the Friendship Palace is still standing and not rotting for the past eighty years. Thinking, she put her weapon back in its holster on her back.. "You...have info? Well, I be damned, it's like Hearths Warming morning and nopony told me." The Pony jokingly said with seriousness along with a little laugh. "But how are you alive? You should of been gun downed by your so called "director"."

"My Cybernetic is my ultimate weapon. Me and Web can never be stopped. We used a Flashbang and escaped by stealing their WT-427." Merc replied.

"That takes guts, The resistance needs guts. hang on I will contact the Canterlot guard patrolling the Vehicle gates."

Watching the pony go outside, Merc and Web decided to make a few purchases. Although the clerk was skeptical about these two being renegades and now Ex-Horselance members, he decided to allow them to purchase what they were buying, even since he heard they have info about Horselance. Going outside, they saw the pony talking via his visor to whoever he was calling as they were getting in their WT. Couple minutes later, the pony walked up to them and both Merc and Web looked at her. "Well, you to have been given authorized clearance to enter Canterlot. Since I had to mention you both are Renegades of Horselance and are now willing to join the E.E.R.A., Princess Celestia and Princess Luna want to see you both in the throne room to see the info. the Chairman of the Overseer Sub community also wishes to speak to you," The pony informed. "Just take the route that leads to a tunnel; that will let you gain access to Canterlot."

Giving the pony a goodbye, Merc and Web began to drive to the location of the vehicle entrance to Canterlot. Now that they have access to Canterlot, there only hope, is that they be able to join the resistance.

____

Within the palace, Celestia and Luna were seen in the throne room of their palace. Like their usual new routine, they were checking the missions given to the troops to send to the Chairman of the E.E.R.A.. While looking at the reports, they noticed one of the colonels of the E.E.R.A, reported days ago that they saw two Horselance members with their Logo scratched off, were in the towns, and traveling through the Badlands. Although they were going to be setting each town under lockdown for further investigation, they gotten report that two "Renegades" of Project Horselance, wanted to talk to them. To their shock, the report given to them was that these two had info about Project Horselances secrets

While they were looking at the reports, they saw the doors open. Including with the doors opening, they heard Clanking noises. It sounded like a sound of one of those new Ponbot prototypes that the Equestria army were experimenting with to create the ultimate super weapon for the war. Looking at what was causing the Clank, they saw two ponies walking towards them. Both were wearing body armor of Horselance, with the logo covered with a huge scratch. However, one pony had a cybernetic.

Approaching the throne, the two ponies bowed to the princesses. "Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, it's an honor to be in your presence," Web stated.

"W-what do you two wish to speak to us about? I-I mean, you both are part of the enemy. You're a threat. You two should be arrested....but, we will here you out since we overheard about you from LT. Colonel Star Blitz," Luna mentioned.

Merc then stood and looked at them. "We have info about Project Horselance's true purposes. We have every single file, excluding one, about their plans." Merc said.

Hearing this, Celestia and Luna looked at eachother, Through the years the war has been happening, and when the landscape outside each city of Equestria started to turn into the Badlands, they had several ponies attempt to gather Intel on Horselances secrets. Eventually, those ponies failed due to being killed while trying. However they never thought of seeing, or having two Renegades bring info to them. It felt like there was a chance they can end the war; Thinking fast, Merc plugged her cybernetic into the holo-computer

Just then, all the Horselance files became visible. Eventually, Web bought up the Horselance secret goals file. Reading through what Horselance goals were, this caused Celestia and Luna to have appeared to have, was a horrified look on their faces appear. These goals, they weren't oridnary goals, what they now realized, that they were plans for domination and revenge. Reading each plan, it felt like the Director who is in charge was some sort of madcolt like how Tirek was when he wanted power.

"This, can't be. Please tell me this is some sort of jest Tia. IS THIS INFO THESE TWO GOTTEN TRUE?!" Luna asked horridly

All Celestia can do was shake her head. "I'm sorry Luna, but, seems this info these two Renegades dug up is acurate. I hate to do this but looks like they are willing to redeem themselves. This info proves something is up in the shadows."

Sighing, Celestia had no choice. She turned on her holographic communicator and began to call Chairman Holos. After a brief few seconds, she saw Holos appear. Even Merc and Web began to tremble in fear. After all, Chairman Holos is the head of the Overseer Sub Community, and both Web and Merc began to fear that if they are found out to be now Ex-Horselance, they be arrested. "Princess Celestia. How may I be of service? Did something occur thats Horselance related?" Holos asked.

"No Holos. We have to renegades from Horselance that bought info to us."

At this point, all four of them saw one shocked and speechless Holos. Through the years that Holos has been the chairman of the Equestria Overseer sub committee, he saw Horselance as a threat. Since Horselance has been around through the years of The Great War, even before the war even started, Holos wanted each member of the project to be arrested, prosecuted, and executed.

Merc and Web could only listen, while Holos and the Princesses began to talk. As they listen, they saw Holos moods change when the princesses told him what was in the documents. However, in Holos point of view, the files they found were most of Hohselances goals. Theoretically, this meant that not all the info was stored in the files. Above all, the information turned out to be useful. Due to this, to both their surprise, they saw Holos Hologram turn to face them. "You two, were you the two that bought this info?" Holos inquired.

"Yes," Web responded.

For a few minutes Holos began to talk to the two, and see how much of Horselance they know. Answering the best they could this did help Holos understand their enemy. Every bit of information, Holos thinker to himself and listen to every bit of knowledge they know; Even with the mention of that the Director remains anonymous. Midway through the conversation, Holos heard his name called. Turns out that on Holos end he had to go to a meeting with some of the solders. Unfortunately having to say goodbye, Holos ended the call.

Between thirty and an hour later, Celestia and Luna decided to allow the two to remain in the castle for a brief time. Deciding to end their conversation, Luna paged for a guard to lead the two to a room they could rest in; even allowing them full access to any area of the castle they want as a sign of gratitude for giving the info.

At the time that Web and Merc left the throne room, Celestia and Luna began to look at the files more. Surely enough they were scared seeing the files the first time, but now seeing them again, they decided to call a meeting. Knowing them, all they could hope for, is for more information about Project Horselance, so they can fully understand their enemy.

Horselance Facility

Back at the Horselance Facility, things weren't the same. While the past few days were different since the betrayal of Merc Lance and Web Intel, the director, however, has changed. Ever since they betrayed him and what now is confirmed they stole an A.I fragment along with info, the director has been really strict with the missions. Even moreover, the missions were becoming more serious. It was as if the Director was losing his temper.

While looking through the data of what the troops have sent, the director, who was to focused on the mission logs, heard his office doors open and shut. Not paying attention he heard clanks of armor hitting the ground. Eventually, he notice. In Front of him was a pony in armor, and wearing a strange helmet that was so tinted, their face wasn't visible. All the director heard, was simple growls, and noticed a A.I fragment manifest itself. "You requested me to be in your presence, director?" The A.I asked as if it was acting as a translator for the mysterious pony in armor.

"Yes. Have a seat Locus." The Director replied as he saw Locus take a seat. "You understand why I requested your presence and asked you to come to our base once again, do you not? I do understand you’re still searching for the one that shot you in the throat. But, you know why you're here?"

Locus began to growl sentence fragments, so the A.I can translate what he is saying. "Of course, Director. It regards the two ponies you mentioned when you requested us to come."

Turning back on his holo-Computer, the director began to look for the ponies he mentioned to them. Since their betrayal, he added them to a list of targets for missions, this list was dubbed the Hitlist. Through his target lists, each of them are ranked by a number depending on how well each soldier are doing on the battlefield within the badlands. Some targets however, are marked special for certain purposes. When he found Merc and Webs profiles, they were under a certain type. This type however, was a mission for no ordinary member of Horselance to eliminate. It was reserved to the highest ranked soldiers of Horselance.

Through the years, some missions were seemingly impossible for some of the Horselance solders, which led Horselance had hired many Mercenaries to take out special targets instead of giving em to Horselance troopers, one Mercenary, however, became part of Project Horselance, and that was Locus, whom was one of the top ranked soldiers of Horselance, and was rumored to be a force to not be messed with. To the Director, he felt that these type of missions weren't ready for low ranked Horselance soldiers to handle. With the profiles up, the Director turned the Holo-computer and showed Locus. "Yes indeed. These two, Merc Lance, and Web Intel. The reason I want these two dead, is because have betrayed the Project, not only that, they have very sensitive information that could lead to Horselance's end." The Director stated.

"How sensitive?" The A.I translated for Locus.

"Severely Sensitive. We're talking about our Goals, our information, troopers, data of Horselance camps in the Badlands, everything. Now I have the feeling that these two gave the information to the two Tyrants, if they don't die, I be B-U-C-K-E-D BUCKED! Now I know that I be overreacting, but, these two need to be killed!"

Locus began to think. It has been a while since he has been on a mission. While he grew to know Merc, she was a fighter that never gave up. Even for somepony born with a birth defect, she kept fighting. When he was sent to his own outpost with some recruits, he had to take leave of Absence for a while after a mission gone wrong. With the Two with the said sensitive data, this could cause a all out attack someday. Growling, the A.I began to translate. "Don't worry director, I...or in this case, we, got this," The A.I translated.

Smiling with a grin, the director was happy to hear that Locus accepted the mission. "Excellent. I give you anything you need, I will let the armory know you’re coming. Your dismissed. But try to not get shot again like what happen to your throat. One last thing, bring me Merc's Cybernetic, I want a trophy to remember her death of how much of a traitor she is."

Standing up, Locus began to walk out with the A.I. Seeing em leave, and after a brief call, the Director then turned off his holo-computer. All he was hoping for is if his goal to conquer Equestria first would be a success. But with his best soldiers on the enemy side, he now is hopping they be eliminated. Walking to the overview window, and levitating his drink. he began to look at Equestria with a look that was sinister. "They all are going to pay." the Director growled angrily as he drank his drink. "Things will be different when I am in charge of this tartarus hole."

Getting prepared, the Director began to call the Armory department via his com ear piece. For a few seconds he heard the waiting tone, and after that, one of the Armory ponies picked up. With the Director having Locus out for blood, the Director can see that his plans will be safe.

_____

Back at the palace, Merc and Web were In a laboratory of the palace. Although they were considered to be Horselance members, the Chairman saw otherwise. Seeing how these two went their way to betray their own project after learning the truth that the resistance has been trying dig up, both Merc and Web were being discussed by Celestia and Luna if they will allow them to lead the resistance.

While in the lab, Web was making modifications to Mercs Cybernetics. This time however, she was going with what she originally was going to install into the Cybernetics systems. She was installing Modes to the system. When she was originally going to install it when they were Horselance soldiers, it was supposed to have unique modes. One of the modes, was safe mode; The Safe mode would allow Merc's weaponry to not be used in certain locations when the mode is active, such as Cities, and such. However, the modes of the Cybernetic didn't get added since the director thought it will mess up.

While Web was at work on the cybernetic, which required Web to detach from Merc's body, Luna came in and was absolutely shocked seeing Merc's true physical form showing she is an amputee. Even it was the most shocking thing she ever saw. Eventually Merc saw Luna’s look on her face. Through her entire life, Merc new these faces really well. Especially since this was one thing that made her life different. "Guess you never saw a pony with only 3 legs and hoofs before?" Merc asked.

"But how? This...doesn't seem physically possible."

At this point, Merc knew she owed a Explanation. Throughout her life, even before joining Horselance, Merc was always questioned why she only had three legs and hoofs. The more ponies asked about it, the more she hated sharing the story. "Turns out I was born with a birth defect. When I was born, I was born without a front left arm and hoof. For most of my life I have been using a motorized Wheelchair. That is until I met Web. When she befriended me, she built me my Cybernetic, and with the help of surgery to implant the parts so I can control the Cybernetic, I am able to walk like a normal pony."

Hearing this, Luna was so shocked to hear this. But hearing that Web made the Cybernetic so Merc wouldn't feel different made her feel happy that, even though in the now Dark Age of Equestria, Twilight Sparkle's legacy of Friendship still managed to survive. After a few minutes of Merc and Luna talking about how Web has been there for her, Web came back with the cybernetic and began to put it back in place on Mercs body where it attaches. When it was put back in place a Click noise was heard, indicating that the Cybernetic was reattached and now functional.

After moving her Cybernetic to see if she is able to move it, Merc now saw that it had new additions on it. Surprisingly, she tried to activate a weapon, but, to her surprise, no weapon was activated. Turns out that Web added the safe mode program which activates whenever she is in a safe zone.

For the time being, Luna began to talk to Web and Merc. For a conversation they were talking about how they met, and such. Most shockingly, Merc and Web began to talk about the reason why they joined Horselance. Turns out, to Lunas shock, Merc and Web were fooled into joining Horselance. The reason was they were offered to make Equestria a better place. Although Luna saw this as they are enemies, even though when she met them in the throne room with Celestia, they became renegades, this started to make Luna see otherwise. These two ponies were tricked into joining the enemy.

Before Luna could respond on how Merc and Webs actions of betraying Horselance and going to her and Celestia are considered justifiable, the doors to the Lab slid open and to everyponys surprise, Celestia and a Cryo pony came running in. Oddly enough, Luna noted that Celestias face showed that she didn't know what was going on. However, something was telling Luna, that something was up. "Tia, what's going on?" Luna asked curiously

"I don't know, Frost didn't tell me. He wanted to tell us both."

Clueless, and dumbfounded, Merc and Web looked at one another curiously. Additionally, Celestia and Luna waited for Frost to respond. Getting his report from what seems to be from the Cryo teem that works with him, Celestia and Luna knew something was happening. And to them, it seems that news came about one or more of the Cryo participants cryo pods . "Cryo Pods EM-TS, EL-PP, EG-R, EH-AJ, EK-FS, and EL-RD, they are...."

Author's Note

Well, here is the chapter, Hope you enjoy.

Try to take a guess who the ponies are in these Cryo Pods are

Chapter 3: Return of heros

In the Cryo bay, many Cryo pods were seen. Each Cryo Pod were line up in rows. Placed upon these Cryo pods were types of identification; each Cryro pod having letters and sometimes numbers on them representing the pony who is within the Cryo. The identification code helps the Cryo Ponies identify the ponies who are in them. Moreover, each Cryo area is labeled by sector.

Within Cryo Bay Sector 4, the Six Cryo pods stood together. Additionally, these six pods were marked very important in the Cryo staffs logs and to Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Unlike the other Cryo Pod participants, these six were the highest priority of the Cryo participants. Not only that, but within one of them was a lavender alicorn.

On the timer of the pods, it was counting down every second. Each second telling how long till the Cryo Pod wakes the pony. Surprisingly, the timers on these pods showed thirty seconds left. When the timers reached zero, it sent a single to the Cryo staff. Not only that, the Cryo pod went into defrost mode, and the ponies who were in slumber within the pod began to defrost.

Within minutes, the defrosting process reached completion and the doors of the Cryo pods opened, with the six ponies falling out. Landing on the floor, they all began to show movement. They showed signs of coughing due to being frozen. "Ugh, I feel like I took a apple to the noggin," the pony with a farm accent groaned as she rubbed her eyes. "W...where am I? Why is everything black?"

The other ponies, recognized that voice. but, they couldn't see. They felt as blind as a fruitbat. "Applejack? Is that you?" One of the ponies with both a horn and wings asked.

While they were try to figure out where they are and who is who, they didn't even note that some ponies were approaching them. Save for one, who had a rainbow mane who happen to hear them coming. With every step she heard, the more they drew closer to them. Soon, all six of the ponies began to hear talking. What the conversation was about was dealing with about the six ponies. Throughout the conversation, the six ponies heard more ponies and what seemed to be something rolling in the distance. Despite not being able to see, the ponies began to fear that something must be up and it most of caused their vision to appear black and not letting me see.

One by one, they felt like they were being lifted and put on some kind of bed. While they were being place on what they presume were beds and feeling like they’re being moved, they heard another pony following them, this time, however, the presence of this pony felt really familiar to them; Especially to the lavender alicorn, who somehow recognized this pony, although not being able to see momentarily. "What are your orders, Princess Celestia?" One pony who was wheeling one of the beds asked.

"Take them to the Cryo recovery room."

Upon hearing this voice, the lavender Alicorn was stunned that her hunch was right about this pony. It was her formal teacher. "P..Princess Celestia, is that you?" She asked before a hoof is put by her muzzle.

"Shh, Twilight, not right now."

As Princess Celestia stopped following, she instructed the team to take care of the six ponies and help them heal. Watching the six Cryo staff and six ponies be taken into the Cryo recovery room, she then saw Merc and Web walk by, who were surprised to see who these six ponies were on the medical beds. After they went into the Cryo recovery room, the two approached Celestia. What they just saw were the heroes of Equestria, the Mane six. They were told that they were dead by their formal leader, but they were surprised that he lied to them.

Walking with Celestia, the two were still surprised. The looks on their faces caused Celestia to let out a little chuckle. It was like they were thinking they were hallucinating. Especially due to the fact for the past many years, no pony ever saw Mane six in so many years.. "Guess you never thought of meeting Equestria’s greatest heroes," Celestia joked.

"B-but how? W-we were told the Mane six died? H-how are they alive?" Merc asked with stutter.

"I will explain later."

Having no time to explain, Celestia followed the Cryo Ponies to the Cryo Recovery room, leaving a dumbfounded Merc and Web in the hallway wondering what is going on. Although they were very clueless, they began asking themselves "why are the mane 6 alive", "How are they not dead" and "Were they lied to about the mane 6's death"? While they were thinking of going to Luna and asking her, they decided against it since they don't want to cause serious problems. Shaking their heads, they decided to head to where they were planning on going, and talk to the Princesses later. They begin to hope what they saw wasn't a hallucination

_____

It's been four hours since the mane six awoken from their slumber in Cryo. Although they were showing signs of confusion and such due to being asleep for so long, they were calm. Unlike others, they didn't freak out or try to bolt from the recovery room leading to the Cryo team to sedate them with sedation drugs. Seeing this impressed the Cryo team.After all, the Mane six are considered heroes to Equestria, and ponies they respect.

When in the recovery room, medic teams followed procedures like they do with any other Cryo pony. Checking the nerves to make sure nothing in the body is damaged, especially the bowel area, was part of the procedure. To the Mane 6 who were at the time being examined, they felt uncomfortable due to not knowing who is touching them because they were temporarily blind, but they could tell by the way they are being examined that it was doctors.

While the four hours were passing, the mane six could tell they were in the a room together since their vision were starting to clear up little by little. Although they could see, their sight was very blurry. They knew the fact their eyesight was slowly returning. Not only that, but their hearing was fine, but they could thankfully tell whose voice was whose since they’ve known each other for many years.

While the mane six were talking, they heard doors seemingly slide open and shut and they heard what was seemingly to be three ponies coming in. Not to mention they heard some sort of weird clanking noise on the ground. Twilight, was the first to look. Although her vision was blurry still, she could make the mane out, and was trying to think who it was. "Princess Celestia, is that you?" Twilight asked while squinting trying to see who it was.

Walking by her bed, Princess Celestia put a hoof by Twilights right shoulder and smiled. To Celestia, she never saw Twilight in eighty years. Eventually, she bought her to a hug. "Of course it's me Twilight."

Letting go, Celestia looked at the six of them who were trying to get up, but they could tell that, even though their vision is still blurry, they might not be in good condition to stand and bow to Princess Celestia. Seeing how they still respect her made Celestia smile as she saw the two ponies, Merc and Web, sit in a area of the room where they could see all six of them. However, they could still see that the Mane six were confused. "Twilight, if I may ask, can you tell me what you remember?" Celestia asked

Trying to recall what happened, Twilight began to show little confusion. Ever since she woke up from a slumber she didn't know she was in. "I remember I was in a room full of pods with my friends, and we were put into them. I...remember a pony saying something, can't remember what, and....I remember me and my friends landing on the floor, and bought here."

Acknowledging, Web began to note that the Mane Six remember the events of being put into Cryo and waking up. Knowing about Cryo, ponies who are frozen in Cryo don't remember anything from the time of being frozen, but before being frozen and waking up. However, the important thing was that Web could tell they don't know what year it is. "Do you all know what day and year it is?" Merc questioned.

Everypony remained silent and began to think. To them, this question was like a really dumb question that should only be asked to a amnesiac who fell into a coma. More importantly they were curious on why this question was being asked. In their personal perspective, it was as if they were in a coma of some sorts. "Ummm....May 24th 2016?" Rainbow guessed.

Mac began to shake her head. "Nope, you be surprised. It's April 29th 2096."

Hearing the date cause the room to go quiet, even Rainbows face was priceless. They couldn't believe it, they were in the future. Knowing they had questions, the Mane 6 began to ask the questions they had about the future. Even Merc and Web, including Celestia, try their best to answer the questions they had. While answering, the mane six felt that they missed a lot. although their families are presumingly deceased, they all considered themselves a family.

With the questions done and over with, a Cryo pony came in and informed them they need to rest a little. While Merc and Web were skeptical about leaving the room, Celestia gave them permission to stay in the room with the Mane 6 incase if they want to chat with them. With the door closed, Merc and Web smiled. Today was a good day for them and now, after the Mane 6 get some rest, they were going to ask the Mane 6 about themselves.

Badlands
1 hour later

Far within the Badlands, there was a Horselance "bandit" outpost. However, this wasn't the only Horselance outpost that was within the badlands itself. Through the years of the process of the Great War and peace falling, in variety of locations in the Badlands, far from each town and civilization, were multiple outposts. These outposts were the other reason why ponies feared leaving the town grounds, because they are scared they would be taken hostage for ransom to the Outposts.

A couple of feet from the outpost, where the outpost can't see, stood a small campsite. Within this campsite, were soldiers in armor and not in armor. Each soldier was either doing exercises for combat or training with their weapons equipped with suppressors. Among them all, was one pony in particular. This unicorn had a dark purple coat with a purplish pinkish and violet mane and tail. Her cutie mark resembled what seemed to be shooting star with some sort of space dust surrounding it. The pony, however, was looking through her thermal scope of her Sniper Rifle at the outpost, watching the soldiers.

While watching the area, she didn't even bother to notice some pony approaching her. "Commander Stardust, ma'am?" The pony asked nervously.

Groaning annoyingly, Stardust lowered her weapon with her magic and looked at the pony. "What is it now, Storm Chaser!"

"M-may I take a break?"

At that point, Stardust gave Storm Chaser a certain look ever since Storm Cloud has been put in her squad for this mission, he has been nothing but lazy. Letting out a friendly chuckle, she gave him a stern look. "Why yes, you can take a break, Storm Chaser, as a matter of fact, the war is over and guess what? you’re the hero. Cloud Cruise is in charge of driving the JV-19 down Canterlot, while Fireball is IN CHARGE OF CONFETTI!"

"I'm no stranger to sarcasm, ma'am."

Looking back in her formal scope and at the outpost, Stardust began to get ticked at the fact that Storm Chaser refuses to do orders when given them and only does so when threaten. In her own opinion she thought of calling the Overseer Chairman and having Storm Chaser relieved from line of duty due to discarding direct orders from time time. "Look, the answer is no, you know it and I know it! NOW, go back to the training grounds we setted up here for our mission and GIVE ME FIFTY!" Stardust ordered

"But Ma'am?"

"Want it to be a hundred for complaining, Storm?!"

Groaning, Storm decided to follow orders. After Storm left Stardust all alone, Stardust began to scan the outpost more. While scanning she found where their targets, the hostages, were. Seeing that most Horselance outpost contained hostages were one of many missions for the resistance, to rescue the hostages and have evac team take ‘em back to their home towns. Stardust on the other hoof was one brave soldier who was known for stealth and one who takes out her targets silently without alerting others.

While planning on taking out the whole entire outpost to free the hostages, her Radio on her visor started to go off. It was Luna. "This is Princess Luna to Commander Stardust Sparkle, come in Stardust Sparkle?" Luna said.

groaning annoyingly, Stardust turned on her radio and answered. From Storm asking for a break and her radio going off, she began to think she won't complete the mission. It was becoming irritating. "This is Stardust, what now?!" Stardust asked annoyingly.

"Don't be cocky Stardust. We....have some news. Do you remember your ancestors name?"

Clueless, Stardust was now off focus, this question was like no ordinary question. To her, it felt like a really dumb question since she knew who her ancestor is, in fact her ancestor was well known eighty years ago. However she was curious on why Luna, who was in charge of handling the missions, would bring up such a question. Even since it's irrelevant to the war. "Well Duh, of course, my ancestor is Princess Twilight Sparkle, whom I told sacrificed her life to save Equestria. W-why are you asking this out of the clear blue?" Stardust asked cluelessly.

"Twilight Sparkle, she is alive."

Dead silence filled Stardust. The words that Luna just said, they were something she doesn't hear everyday. Especially if it involves an Equestrian Citizen of the past. Not only that, but dealing with her ancestor. While Stardust was a filly, she heard stories that her Great Grandparents, Twilight Velvet and Night Light had another foal when Twilight Sparkle mysteriously went off the radar, which turned out to be her mother. During her time growing up, she heard various rumors and theories of how the mane six supposedly died. One rumor stated that the died when traveling, another was they got mauled, and another was that they sacrificed themselves to save Equestria. This caused Stardust to drop her sniper rifle is disbelief. "W-w-what? H..how? S-she's su-supposed to be dead." Stardust replied stuttering.

"Sadly, no. If you want prove, meet at Twilight's castle in Ponyville. We will tell you when. But, for now, since you’re at an outpost, finish your mission."

With that, Luna ended the call on the communicator. Recovering, Stardust then went to the training grounds. It was time to start the mission. Getting two other ponies, while telling the others what they have to do, Stardust was ready to save the ponies that are trapped inside the outpost. Her only hope is that this news, didn't distract her from completing her mission.

Few days later

Days were flying by since the mane six awoke from their Cryogenic slumber. While they were recovering the medic team had to run lots of tests on them to make sure to physical damage wasn't done to them due to being in deep sleep. Many of the tests dealt with their ability to walk, use magic, fly, see, and everything normal. To their surprise no serious damage were done to the mane six's body, even to their lower bodies, which was a big concern.

When they fully recovered they were released from the Cryogenic Recovery Room. However, they couldn't return to Ponyville just yet. They had to spend a few nights in Canterlot at Celestia and Luna’s request. Unknowingly to them, they didn't know the reason was due to the fact that the Princesses wanted to protect them from further harm due to the war. Especially Merc and Web wanted them save, because, to them, the Mane six are their idols.

Within Twilight's temporary room in Canterlot, Twilight was seen on the balcony of her room, looking at the now futuristic Canterlot. This was the first amazing sight Twilight got to see with her own eyes after recovering from Cryo. Unlike the version of Canterlot in her time period, this version was more amazing and gorgeous to look at, even the new buildings. Even the new technology she saw made her more interested to know more about the new Equestria.

While looking outside, she didn't even notice somepony walking in on her and going next to her. She was too busy sightseeing to even bother noticing. "Beautifu,l ain't it? I can tell your love how Canterlot looks now," Merc said getting Twilight's attention.

"Yes I mean...Wow, h-how did they produce this much Technology? In our era, we didn't have much material back in my time period, or in this case, the past. But...wow."

Chuckling, Merc nudge Twilight Friendly like. "We had our ways getting material. Even, since we heard in stories you went to the human world, believe it or not, we made peace with the humans, and, they sent us material so we can have technology also."

Hearing all this made Twilight smile. Even since hearing everything she and her friends did still lived on, especially when they Disappeared off the radar into Cryo. Looking at Merc, she could tell Merc and her friend respects her a lot. When looking at Merc, she even caught eye of Merc's cybernetic. While she saw all of her hoofs were normal hoofs, she began to get curious about the Cybernetic where her left front leg was supposed to be. "Is there a story behind that?" Twilight ask pointing at the Cybernetic. "Because, it's something I usually didn't see in 2016."

Wanting to share her story, Merc then looked at Twilight with a smile. "I guess I can tell you my....backstory." Merc replied as she began.

Going inside, Twilight sat by the table and Merc sat on the other side. This story was one story, Merc never thought of sharing"When I was born, My mom, Moonlight, and my father, whom....I don't know who he is to this day, gave birth to me, I...was born with a birth defect. Mom don't know how the defect happen nor did the doctors, they said I won't be able to walk normally, so, I had to be placed in a wheelchair. My whole life, I felt different, I couldn't do normal pony things, couldn't walk easily with three legs and hoofs, even, I had to have a motorized wheelchair. When this occur, my whole life was turning worse since I couldn't live a normal life. It, was becoming to the point that I had to get a prosthetic, which I hated."

Twilight, who was sitting down, was shocked hearing this. "So, you felt different and like you were an outcast of society?"

"Yes, however, it...took a turn on my twenty first birthday. My mom, who was with me for my whole life after my father, suddenly disappeared, took me to a bar in San Flanksisco to celebrate. When we were there, I met my now best friend, Web Intel, at the bar who saw me. She saw how down I was when ponies kept asking why I have three arms and if I was okay. She, approached me and offer me and my mom something that will change my life, which was Cybernetic implantation surgery. It was expensive, but, we paid it off with the money from my father that was given to my mom after the sudden divorce. So, we went for the surgery, and, with a chip implanted on my brain, and, the Cybernetics implanted on the left side of my body. I now have a cybernetic that I can control."

Hearing this story caused Twilight to feel sad. A Pony who had only three legs and hoofs was something that could scar a pony for life. Usually these birth conditions were pretty Rare, even since it does count a disability due to the fact it being a birth defect. However, one thing struck Twilight’s mind. Throughout Merc’s story she only mentioned her mother, and nothing of her father. Sparking curiosity, Twilight looked at Merc. "H-how did your father react?" Twilight asked.

"My Dad....was never around, I...don't know who he is."

This caused Twilight to be shocked. "You...don't know who your father is?"

Merc then shook her head confirming that she doesn't know who her dad is. "I was only raised by my mother. When I asked about my dad, mom said "Don't want to talk about it", and when I was eighteen, and asked the question again, she said "Don't speak of him, he means nothing to us" I...don't know who he is."

While Twilight could understand Merc wanted to know who her father was so badly, she can tell there was a motive behind the fact that Mercs mother wanted to hide the existence of Mercs father. Unlike most ponies who found who their parents are thanks to government help, Twilight could understand that something about Merc's father was the reason to be hidden.

Throughout the time, Twilight and Merc began to talk to one another about certain topics, ranging from how things changed, and Twilight's sharing her adventures with Merc. During this time, Twilight got to know Merc more, from learning about her implant to her life after the implantation. During the course of the conversation, a random explosion occurred outside causing em to look. Outside, they saw that a Horselance missile was fired at Canterlot. Luckily, thanks to shield generators around the city, the missile didn't pass through. Even though she has been out of cry for four days, Twilight was startled by what occurred. "W-what the hay was that?" Twilight asked with a fear tone.

Groaning Merc remembered about those missiles. "UGH, Horselance with their missiles trying to break the shield. No wonder why I betrayed that Psychopath"

Hearing this, Twilight looked at Merc: While she was still getting used to seeing the futuristic world, she has been yet to be caught up with all it's history. Throughout the time in Canterlot, Twilight remained in her Canterlot room or with the mane 6 for time being. Being in recovery was stressful and, although Twilight wanted to visit the library, she needed to recover fully. However, she never expected an attack on Canterlot, or Merc mentioning a "betrayal". "Wait...You...betrayed a Psychopath?" Twilight asked.

"That is for another day Twilight, but, for now, lets just go hang out with your friends."

Usually, Twilight would question this, but, in her own opinion, Merc was right, it had to be for another day. As she can tell, Merc wanted to protect Twilight from discovering something that might cause a scene. Knowing that she had questions, she decided to drop them for another time, just so she doesn't make Merc mad and having her to use the right to remain silent Getting up, Merc and Twilight began to head out of Twilight's room, and began to head to the mane five. I...hope nothing bad is happening. Twilight began to think as she head with Merc to the hangout room.

Meanwhile,
Horselance HQ

Back at Horselance HQ, The Director was seen walking to the Horselance Laboratory. While he had Locus heading on his mission to go and eliminate the two ponies who betrayed him, things started to turn worse day by day. While his best soldiers had betrayed him after sneaking around the laboratory, things were never quite the same for him. To him, he felt he was getting angrier and angrier everyday. Even to the point he accidentally took a his anger out on a fellow recruiter.

When he entered the lab, he began to search around; Although he usually meets his recruits or fellow workers in his office, this meet was entirely different. Continuing further, he saw a light sea green pony, with a black and white mane whom had a quill-sword as a cutie mark. Approaching, he knew this is the pony that wanted to meet him. Seeing him made the pony salute. "Director, sir." The Pony responded.

"Ah, yes, General Blackquill. How have you been these past weeks." The Director replied as he and Blackquill began to walk.

"Quite busy. Since that wretched traitor Web Intel backstabbed us, I have been more busy here. That judas will so pay with her life!"

Knowing Blackquill, he and Web had a friendly friendship. When Web and Merc first joined Horselance, Blackquill was the one that helped Web come with the ideas of Merc's Cybernetic whenever she needed assistance. Even when Merc was still in Cryo while Web woke up one month before Merc, Blackquill remained by Web' side since she cared for Merc, even since they were both showing signs they were Fillyfoolers. However, due to their betrayal, Blackquill became ticked that the pony he thought was his friend joined the resistance with her friend.

As they continued walking, The Director looked at him. "I know how you feel, that's why I sent Locus to kill em." The Director Assured

"Locus? The one that was shot in the throat and lived?" Blackquill asked surprised.

The Director nodded.

While the two continue talking, they began to head to a room that was still under construction. As they entered, within that room, was some sort of giant weapon. By the weapon, were ponies, mostly pegasi, working their tails off on it. Moving to a room in this area, the Horselance engineers began saluting to The Director, and continued their work. Upon entering, Blackquill went to the holo-computer and began to enter the passcode to enter, and pulled up the weapon; The Director at the other end of the table. "So, what is this weapon you are building?" The Director asked.

Clearing his throat, Blackquill looked at the director. "It is a super weapon. Mostly, like a giant laser that might aid us in destroying the resistance, for good."

Sipping his drink that a engineer bought him, The Director looked at him. This was the VERY first time he heard of this particular weapon. Although he hated it when his team kept secrets from him, this one, was for a purpose. While he knew about the Pon-bot productions was almost complete, this one, was seeming still in Production. Looking at the ponies working hard, they could tell the production was kinda slow due to it being hard work, but, he knew they want to help out the best they can, even to make The Director not mad and such. "How long till the weapon is complete?" The Director responded as he took another sip of his drink.

"It will take some months, probably around... I think 3 months or so. It depends on how fast they work."

Hearing this made The Director smile, although he had been betrayed, he has a feeling this might help win the war. In his mind he pictured the resistance crumbling down, and surrendering. He sees Celestia and Luna being gone for good and the throne becoming his, and moreover, he sees himself ruling all of Equus with a iron hoof. Smiling, he stood up. "Blackquill, why don't you have the day off. I am going to head back to my office." The Director said

"Thank you, sir."

As Blackquill began to leave, The Director looked at the weapon and began to grin sternly, he has a feeling that he is getting a little closer to victory. While Locus was out to kill Merc and Web, the only other thing that stood in his way was the resistance, the princesses of the sun and moon, and both The Chairman, and The Counselor of the Overseer Sub committee. Now he can only hope, is that the weapon can be finished.

Author's Note

Well, the Mane 6 are alive and well. Luckily they do have a unique role to the story, but they be in like a supporting character role since Merc and Web are the main. Marc's mysterious father is a idea I had but I don't want to spoil too much on who he is since it be all "spoilers" since it be a mystery of who he is for now.

Answers will be revealed about the Ancestor thing in the next chapter. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this chapter.

Chapter 4: A Futuristic Welcome

The past few days went well for the mane 6. While they were relaxing during their recovery, they were introduced to the newest types of technology that was made over the past years. Even though Twilight knew some of the technology due to visits to the Human World, she took the time to introduce her friends to the technology. Celestia, however, took the time to show them the new technology. To their surprise, even to Merc and Web, Twilight and Rainbow both love the computer, even were surprised books were now being published online too.

On one day, Twilight, Rainbow, and Fluttershy had to go through flight tests to make sure their wings weren't damage while in Cryo, surprisingly their wings were intact, not even a single sign of showing they are grounded. Next, Twilight, and Rarity had to go through magic tests to see if their horn isn't defective, along with Twilight’s wings, their horns weren't damage or showing signs of damage to the horn that could of paralyzed their horn.

Now, the day has finally come, the Mane 6 are finally going to be returning to Ponyville. While the Mane 6 were waiting by the outside of the throne room, Merc and Web were summoned for a meeting with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Since the mane 6 woke up, Celestia began to worry that Horselance would begin to take notice the Mane 6 are alive, if the are not protected. Although Celestia and Luna still had questions about Merc and Web's "Horselance History", they had to talk to them immediately. After the conversation which lasted thirty minutes had ended, Merc and Web were instructed by Celestia and Luna to insure that the Mane six have a safe ride home. Although they were skeptic, they do know it’s highly likely they become targets of Horselance. Alongside this, Merc and Web were assigned to be in a Ponyville building which they'll be in charge of a dispatch of soldiers.

When the meeting ended, they begin to head to the train station. During the walk to the train stations, the ponies of Canterlot were looking at the Mane 6, however, oddly enough, they had visors over one eye. In their eyes, they were absolutely dumbstruck; they couldn't believe what they were seeing, from the years they have lived, Every one of them thought that the Mane 6 were just a myth or dead, however they now realized that they aren't because they saw one princess who disappeared, Princess Twilight Sparkle.

When they arrived at the Train Station, they were on time, and got on the train. Taking their seats Merc began to use her magic and bring something for the each of them. The Mane six looked at the thing that each of em gotten, which was the same as the others and became very curious, they never saw such a thing before. "Um, what the hay is this...if you don't mind me asking." Fluttershy sheepishly asked.

Merc let out a friendly chuckle and looked at them. "it's an eye visor. Everypony now these days has them. When you put it on, your able to see a ID of a pony, It can provide some nice things through the lens itself. Plus, if you have a hover vehicle that is connected to your visor, you're able to call your vehicle to you."

"Now that is AWESOME!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed.

As they began to talk, a voice which happen to sound robotic like said the next destination, which turned out to be the destination they were going to. With the train moving, the Mane 6, Merc and Web began to talk more. Merc and Web discussed some things the Mane 6 need to know about the "now" future Ponyville, even since they were in Cryogenic sleep for years. When they finished talking about the rules and new standard safety protocol of the town, the Mane 6 began to tell about their lives, fun moments, and good times they had to Merc and Web. They liked every bit knowing about the six heroes, at that moment, Rainbow began to talk about something that happen in Ponyville that was something unexpected, and seeing the looks on Mercs and Webs faces, they were laughing their flanks off.

"Are you for real? You of all ponies got pranked by thinking the whole town became cookie crazed zombies?" Web asked while trying not to burst into tears laughing.

"Yeah. To...be honest, I didn't find it funny."

Just then, Merc and Web were laughing more, even shedding tears. Of all the things they heard, this happened to be the funniest things ever. At this point the Mane six were laughing too. Thinking back to when all the Ponyville residents and Rainbows friends pranked Rainbow due to Rainbow going kinda going overboard on the pranking, it was really funny to do, and quite fun for beginning pranksters. To top it all off, Pinkie explained how she came with the prank, since she is a prankster like Rainbow, but found it uncalled for back in 2016 when Rainbow pranked Fluttershy.

While they were calming down, Applejack, however, noticed Merc’s cybernetic, and it was different. Instead of its light blue lights on the cybernetic, the lights on it were now red. Although Applejack found it strange but unique that Merc is able to use her Cybernetic to walk and such since Merc told the story behind it, but she thought the color was just for show. The change of color was causing curiosity. "Uh...sugarcube, why is your Cyberwatchyacallit red now?" Applejack asked

This caught Merc’s attention and looked at it, and, the expression on her face was something serious. She knew what red on the cybernetic lights meant. While being a pony with a Cybernetic and formally part of a rouge project, Web installed an update to the Cybernetic which were modes. And to top it off, the red lights only mean one thing, it was in battle mode. While trying to figure out whats going on, they heard a noise coming from outside the train. "Oh no..."

*BOOM*

Hearing this Web got out her special tool and looked through it and saw the outside of the train. Behind the train she saw something she never expected. She saw a couple of Horselance air class Pelicans. From the looks of it all, it seemed Horselance was after the train because a target might be on their, or worse, they might be after her and Merc. Although they had to protect the Mane 6, they had to deal with the situation. Even with the Robotic voice telling all passengers to remain calm, Applejack is beginning to get the sense something is being hidden from them

"WHAT THE HAY IS GOING ON?" Applejack asked sternly.

Groaning, Web knew that her lid was about to pop off, since they were remaining low, she thought Horselance would’ve just left them alone, but she isn't sure why they are attacking. Although she didn't want to put the train in danger, she had no choice, since she and Merc are considered renegades and traitors of Horselance, they have to follow protocol, protect the Mane 6 at all cost. "Merc, get on top of the train, your weapons are activated now. Defend the train at all cost, shoot down those damn Pelicans. Remember, we can't risk Princess Twilight, the Mane 5, or any passenger being killed by these bucking idiots," Web ordered getting a salute from her friend.

"I'm on it."

With Merc climbing up the later hatch, Applejack began to look at Web with sternness. Knowing Applejack, she would demand an answer and doesn't want anything hidden from her friends that seems important. From those random explosions they heard while staying in Canterlot to Merc and Web’s strange behavior whenever these occurrences occur, she was about to applebuck somepony. "What are you hiding from us?" Applejack asked calmly trying to control her anger.

"Applejack, I don't think Merc or Web wants to tell us for our own safety. They have the right to plead the fifth," Twilight responded while getting a glare from Applejack.

"Has being frozen in Cryo frozen your mind, Twilight? It’s obvious that..."

At that point, Web interrupted. "I believe we...now have to tell you."

Upon hearing this, they all were looking at her, even Fluttershy who was trying to calm down after hearing that explosion. While they were all curious on why these strange things were happening out of nowhere, and the reason it was hidden, they began to think something really bad was up. Pinkie, on the other hoof, had a feeling that it was something really bad, even to the point that her friends could tell that Pinkie knew it was going to be something not good. "You see....you woke up in a dark time. We....are at war." Web explained.

Dead silence surrounded the Mane 6. Even Rarity, being the drama queen she is, fainted hearing that word. While they do remember the Yaks from Yakyakistan originally calling War against the ponies due to Twilight’s failed attempt to make the yaks feel at home in Equestria, but decided to not go through it thanks to Pinkie’s efforts; this was the first for the them, save for Twilight who was told from a alternate timeline Applejack that Equestria was at war with Sombra.

"W-we are at war? W-with whom? North Cowrea? Heyssia?" Rainbow asked nervously.

Web then began to shake her head at Rainbows response, although those were considered enemy countries in the past years, not knowing to the Mane 6 they became allies to help out with the war. But one question was on their mind. Who were they at war with? Since being frozen in time made them clueless about what was going on while in Cryogenic slumber, they were updated with all that went on. with the exception of the mention of war. Taking an estimating guess, it was on purpose.

Sighing, Web began to tell them the truth, while Merc was busy protecting the train. "You see, we are at war not with another country, but....with an organization named Project Horselance. Me and Merc were members until we betrayed them due to knowing the truth. Although we committed sin, the Resistance allowed us to join to fight Horselance."

While they were curious on why they hid it from them, they heard what seemed to be noises coming from outside. While the noises were coming off, they could hear Merc saying stuff about Horselance, and possibly swearing, even to the point Applejack thinking that she needs to have her mouth washed with soap for filthy language. With the firing noises continuing, they saw a big massive object falling from the sky and land on the ground, crashing and burning. More importantly, they saw something that would never expect. The land of Equestria, was now in a wasteland state. While looking at this horrific site, they heard another one of those mysterious things they never saw before fall, and Merc hopping back in the train.

Gaining their attention, they looked at Merc, and saw her cybernetic which was now in some sort of form. Twilight easily recognized it and it turns out to be a lethal weapon Sunset told her about when Sunset was learning History of wars in the human world, it was a M134 military class Minigun. Even to their eyes, they saw it go back in the cybernetic, and went back into its usual form with the additions of the lights turning back to blue. Sitting back down next to Web, she saw the expressions on their face. "What?" Merc asked "You never saw guns before? Never mind that, we are reaching Ponyville soon."

_______

When the Mane 6 arrived at Ponyville, they felt happy they have finally returned home after many years of being in Cryo. While Merc and Web have visited the town once before when heading to Canterlot, the site of what Ponyville was now surprised them. Unlike the Ponyville in their time period, Ponyville was now more futuristic. They saw Ponies with Eye Visors, ponies on mysterious boards, and the buildings were more futuristic instead of its usual modern day look.

while they were enjoying the sight of the new updated version of Ponyville, one question appeared. Where will they live? Although they could just go back to their own little shops and homes, but, it will turn up to be the fact that their own properties and such belong to other ponies now, since they have been gone for a merely good eighty years. With every step they took, they began looking around, even with Merc and Web following as they were going to head to their new property, Merc and Web saw a familiar pony arrive, it was the pony they saw at the shop when they made a pit stop weeks ago. It was one of the resistance soldiers, LT. Colonel Star Blitz.

As Star approached, she saw Merc and Web. She even recognized them. However, when she caught glimpse of the Mane 6, one pony in particular caught her sight, it was Rainbow Dash, and seeing Rainbow Dash made Star surprised. She then approached them. "Merc...Web, we meet again." Star Blitz greeted with a friendly smile.

Merc then smiled back "Hello, Star Blitz. I guess Luna informed you about us?"

Star nodded. While she knew that Merc and Web were formal Horselance members who became Renegades, she was informed by Princess Luna that Merc and Web have become special resistance members as mission handlers. Surprisingly, Merc and Web knew more about where bases for Horselance were that they were given the task to give the info about locations to resistance troops to clear out so that details about Horselance could be retrieved. "Yes, Luna informed me, and Commander Stardust Sparkle, we have to get missions from you from now on and have our troops go to those areas." Star replied as she gave a salute.

When hearing the last name "Sparkle", Twilight was taken off guard. Since she is in the future, she began to think that ponies began to not remember her name due to the fact she has been out of site. However judging by how the name sounded, it sounded like some pony was named after her, considering being a family member of the future family of Twilight’s family, or some pony was named after her due to what she done for everypony in the past.

While this question was still on her mind, she looked at Star Blitz. "Who is this Stardust Sparkle pony?" Twilight asked curiously.

At this point Star looked at Twilight and gasped. In front of her was the one and only Princess of Friendship. Of all the stories she heard, one story she had been told was that Twilight and her friends sacrificed themselves to save Equestria from a looming threat, even to the point that it cost their lives. However seeing Twilight in front of her made her now really that the theories were hoaxes and just red herrings. Shockingly, she bowed down to the princess in respect. "Princess Twilight, it’s an honor being in your presence." Star said respectably in a voice that had the sound of surprised.

"There is no need to bow, Star. But...like I said, who is this Stardust Sparkle pony?"

Getting up, Star smiled and looked at Twilight. "Stardust Sparkle is your descendent in your family bloodline."

It was then that the ponies gasped. Twilight has a descendent? The news of hearing about a descendent made even wonder if they had descendants. After all, if somepony in their family were to marry somepony, and if either the Ancestor Pony was deceased, or frozen in time, they will have a descendent. This even spark the curiosity if Twilight’ descendent was a natural born alicorn, or born a unicorn like how Twilight was. On the contrary, Applejack began to wonder who is running Sweet Apple Acres now since Big Mac stayed behind after he got engaged with Miss Cheerilee, which she can only guess they are now deceased.

However but suddenly out of nowhere, Star looked at Rainbow Dash with a look of curiosity. A...Are you....R-Rainbow D-Dash? The fastest Pegasi that can perform the Sonic Rainbow and former Wonderbolt?" Star asked stuttering.

"Well duh. W-why?"

Within seconds, the Mane 6, Merc, and Web saw a look of disbelief on Star Blitz' face. It was a look that showed she thought Rainbow Dash was bluffing like a lawyer trying to get the truth out of a witness. Theoretically, the Mane 6 knew that this look is indeed a look that ponies would give if they meant ponies that are from the past. Especially since to the present day ponies, they know for the fact ponies can't live forever like Alicorns. "N-no...t-that ain’t possible....y-you’re not Rainbow Dash who's my......PROVE YOUR RAINBOW DASH, DO YOUR SIGNATURE SONIC RAINBOOM!" Star Cried

While Rainbow Dash was going to attend on doing a Rainboom, she remembered what Merc and Web told them on the train. Ever since they were thought to be dead by numerous of ponies through out Equestria, ponies began to think that The Mane 6 died heroically, even those who are with Horselance believe that they are the next "heros". On the train she remembered that Merc and Web ordered her not to perform any Sonic Rainbooms at all for the safety of her and her friends so they don't end up on the kill list or radar of Horselance, so they can avoid meeting a gruesome fate. "Sorry, I can't perform a Sonic Rainbow, I'm ordered not to perform one for the safety of my friends, plus if my Wonderbolt Legend mother was in the Skylands, she be horrified I broke an oath." Rainbow commented only to get a surprise gasp from Star.

"It is you...y-you're my ancestor!"

While this was occurring, four other mares showed up. Each looking and baring a slight resemblance to the mane six, even one of them had a bunny riding on her back, whom bare a ribbon. However, one of them had a cowgirl look and had a robot with her. In front of the Mane Six were their descendents. While none of them realized it, Merc and Web had this planned out. With everything going on, the descendents went with their ancestors and showed them around, which they all promise to meet at Twilight’s palace at five. Wasting no time, the three headed to Twilight’s palace. Little did they know that they are going to meet the pony who has been taken care of the palace, for Twilight’s sake

______

Deep within the badlands in the depths of Luna’s night, a rundown facility soon lonesome in shadows of the Badlands. Though ponies see this place as a facility, the facility has been decommissioned of operation for many years, Ever since then the ponies who ran the facility left the building to rot into rubble and rust. Since then the equipment in their began to become rusted and fragile, even the resistance marked this territory off limits since it has been seized of operation for many moons.

However, that didn't stop one pony from entering, and it was a Horselance soldier. Even though this facility was prohibited entry since it was abandoned, that didn't stop outlanders, traitors, or enemies from entering the facility. While the pony walked through the facility, he began to head to the direction where he was going, and he had intentions of coming here, it was to meet a pony who he was going to recruit.

Approaching the room, he saw a pony, sitting by a table. The pony looked like a usual pony, but with a certain facial feature, especially with his mouth. Not only that, he wore an eyepatch and had burn marks. As it turns out, this pony is a traitor of Equestria who has been wanted for five years. grabbing a seat, the pony removed his helmet and looked at him. Speaking in growls, an A.I manifested to began the translation process. "Your Rouge resistance member RN-467, aka, Fire Blaze, am I wrong?" The A.I. asked in translation for the pony.

"Hm, what do you want? The Director want in on me for being resistance? I work Lone Wolf Style. Unlike you Locus, I will burn the traitorous backstabber Counselor. Why don't you piss of to the tartarus hole you came from, bet your not a bit dollar to rule Equestria with your pathetic Director." Fire barked as he drank some more of Equestrian Liquor.

Furious by what Fire said, Locus pointed his rifle at Fire, although Fire is a skilled unicorn with the ability to cast very lethal Fire Spells, he was almost going to be killed for being a smartass. Calming down, Locus put his gun back on his back and sat down. Although he was dealing with a rogue traitor of the Equestrian Resistance, he was his only ticket for help, after all, his two targets ruined his life and made him insane simultaneously. Speaking in his usual growls, he pulled up a holo projection of his two targets on his visor, and showed it to Flame. Even this caught Fire's attention. "I know you have dealt with these two scum bags before. As it turns out, they betrayed us." The A.I Translated.

"So what? Are you asking me to do your work for you?"

Shaking his head and growling, the A.I began to translate. "No, I am asking if you want to hunt them down with me. In exchange, Horselance will help you extract revenge."

Thinking, Fire began to wonder if he should accept. After all, the Counselor of the resistance did ruin his life according to him, and cost him his reputation as a soldier, which caused a blood thirst of vengeance to be born. Imagining if he did help, he would get revenge on her and take revenge on the two who ruined his face. Taking his time to think, he then realize, he can't hide forever and plot revenge, he needs to get revenge, and what better way is than aid the enemy. After all, after his war crimes happen once his face was scarred and burned, he became a war criminal. Smiling evil, he looked at Locus. "Done." Fire Blaze said.

Without further delay or hesitation, Fire blaze got up and began to put on his suit of armor, and began to scratch off the resistance logo, and began to redo his armor. He was no longer a resistance, now he was a Horselance member. Locus began to grind. Now that he recruited a rogue soldier, he now only had one goal in mind. Get revenge on his targets.

Chapter 1: Betrayal for Redemption

April 24th 2096
Horselance facility

At the Horselance facility, it was a typical day. Soldiers training in the training room, recovering in the medical Wing and even some were lounging either taking some well needed rest from combat, or healing from wounds. Among all of ‘em - The Director however - was looking into Merc's records during her training in the simulation room Ever since Merc woke up from Cryo, the past days have been busy for her since The Director had Web look at Merc's Cybernetics to make sure nothing was damaged.

Meanwhile, Merc and Web were seen walking together to the Archives of the facility. Although Web wasn't making a sound, the only sound heard was Merc's Cybernetic, whirring and spinning it’s gears with every step she took. During their walk, Web was thinking of something. Since she joined Horselance after meeting Merc, she thought it was a phenomenal idea joining a group to help restore peace on whatever caused a war to happen. But, as the years went on and passed by, even when Merc was in Cryogenic sleep, Web began to think something was up.

Approaching the location, Web looked at her friend. "Okay, here is the plan, I will go to the A.I storage room in hopes to find what I can gather about my suspicion, you go to the data room. We will talk via our personal com channel on our visors. Understand, Merc?" Web asked.

Merc nodded. "Yes, if I find anything, I will copy the data to my cybernetic database. Let's go."
The two then headed to the rooms they decided to investigate. During the walk to the Data room, Merc used her magic to turn on her visors personal channel. Needless to say, Merc was thinking that while Web began to think something was up, she remembered reading something about the Mane 6, the Elements of Harmony, that when Princess Twilight, way before when she supposedly went missing, knew something was up, she immediately dealt with the problem.

Approaching the dataroom, Merc saw that the door had a touch code pad. Although she could just turn around, head to her room and pretend she got info, she didn't want to disappoint her friend. Cleverly thinking, Merc activated her cybernetic and began to hack the touch code pad. In a few seconds, the door opened. "Heh, foal's play. Man, I love my cybernetic," Merc commented as she began to head into Data room.

Within the Data room was a computer. Since real files and paper started to become uncommon and, almost obsolete, every single bit of data were stored on special computers. Approaching, once again, Merc began to hack, but due to hacking, she gained access. She then put a hoof by her visor to contact Web. "Web, do you copy?" Merc called.

"Web here, what is it Merc?"

"I'm on the data computer, I am gonna go through the files."
“Copy that, I got what I need for info, seems one part of my hunch was right..... Hope you find something. I'm on my way to your location"

While talking to Web, Merc opened up a file that contained variety of different files and info. Most of em were dealing with Equestria or a area in Equus. Clicking on one, Merc began to become filled with utter shock. The file she open was a file labeled "Targets". Within the file was a list of targets. Some were political figures to Equestria who were high importance, either with Politics or government law enforcement. Others were dealing with judicial. Seeing these made Merc question why the Director would go after these ponies if he made Horselance to make Equestria better. However, reading the file more, she saw two ponies, which completely made her question herself more. The two strange ponies on there, were Celestia and Luna.

As she continue to read the other files, to get more info about why these were targets, she was ultimately shocked what she just read. Not only that, but now she knew the truth, The director actually lied to them. These Targets, eliminated Targets, and other related matters that Merc was part before her Cryo slumber were revealing to her, what Project Horselance truly is meant for. Not only that, but these were making it sound like Horselance was being lead by nothing, but a murderous Psychopathic Sociopath. The more files she looked at, she couldn't help but feel intense anger at The Director.

Although the Mane 6 were missing, if they were still around, in Merc's mind, she sees them beating up The Director and having him arrested for treason, Terrorism and War Crimes. Not only that, but even causing the outside parts of every town to become what is known as The Badlands.

While still surprised at what she saw, she then noticed one file; One file was labeled "Important". Not risking if it's is a trap, she began to download all the files to her visor. With each file downloaded to her Visor, she then decided to click the file. However, upon clicking it, the facility alarms went off. "Alert, Data Breach in Archives!" said a robotic voice..

Realizing that guards will be on there way, Merc closed everything out and began to head out of the room. While heading out, she began to head to where Web could possibly is. "Web, we need to get out of this place. You're right, something is up with the Project. We need to do the right thing. I got the files." Merc said to Web on their com.

"Get to me fast."

Acknowledging that Web had an idea of escape, Merc began to gallop as fast as she could to where Web is. As she ran, she saw Horselance's strongest ponies head to where the data has been breached. Approaching Web, they began to run to the Vehicle bay. While they were galloping, they began to fear what The Director’s reaction be. Since they are more then likely to be ordered to be shot by The Director, they started to fear the worse.

Five minutes later, they approached the Vehicle bay. However, upon entering the Vehicle Bay, they saw the Director and three Horselance ponies there waiting for em, Two Unicorns, and a Pegasus, pointing their guns at em while standing on two hoofs. Not only that, but The Director was looking really ticked.

"Well, out of the Frying Pan and into the Fire" Merc complimented.

At this point, The Director took of his glasses with his magic and looked at them sternly with Intense anger. "You Traitor! Is this how you repay me, Merc?! You’re my best soldier! Surrender now and give me those Data Files Now and I will forget this ever happen!"

Seeing how the situation is, Merc didn't know what to do. She, and Web were held at gunpoint. Even with the possibility of being shot to death if they didn't surrender the files. Although Merc wanted to help The Director, but now seeing Horselance’s true purpose within those files, she now wanted to do what's right. But, being held at gunpoint, she now was clueless on what to do.

At that point, she heard Web whisper something in her ear. "Flash bang."
.
"Wh-what?" Merc whispered back

"Merc, use your flashbang weapon that are apart of your Cybernetics.""

Looking at her Cybernetic, she saw her lights were out of safe mode and in engage mode. Realizing what her friend means, she began to activate her weapon function of the cybernetic and it was put into Flashbang. Getting on her back hoofs, she pointed her cybernetic at them."Kill us, I dare you. Pull the trigger." Merc taunted sarcastically.

"What is your major malfunction Merc, have you lost your mind?!"

Laughing, Merc looked sternly. "No Sir, but I think you all have lost your vision."

Quickly thinking, Merc fired the Flashbang at them. The Flashbang landed by the Director’s hooves, who didn't even notice. Thinking fast, Web and Merc began to run towards a vehicle and began to hot wire it, even The Director turned, even deciding to get his gun out with his magic. "Ponies, open fire on these...?"

Before he could finish his sentence, he heard a ticking, and right before his, and the other troops eyes, a bang was heard and for them, everything appeared white. This gave Merc and Web the opportunity to escape with their now getaway vehicle, and began to drive out of the facility. With their escape, they finally made it to the outside, and now seeing the now Badlands of Equestria. Every mile they drove, they began to drive farther away from the facility. With their plan completed, Merc, who was driving, lifted her hoof so it's open for Web. "Eiffel Tower!" Merc cheered as she got a hoof five from Web.

"We did it Merc. We did it."

As Merc was driving, Web could see the Horselance facility far away. For the years she and Merc worked there, she never knew or realized that she made the wrong choice working for an organization that was rouge and insane. Looking at Merc, she was happy that Merc made it out alive with her. "So, what should we do?" Web asked

"We should probably lay low. How about we go get drinks at a local bar in celebration?"

Web smiled at the idea. "I don't mind, but we need to get to Canterlot also and warn Princess Celestia and Princess Luna."

With their agenda set, Merc began to drive to the closest town. Back at the Horselance facility, The Director and troops eyes began to clear up from the flash bang. In his years, he never thought of being blinded by such a weapon. "Everypony okay?" The Director asked rubbing his eyes with his hoofs.

"We are....? uh....sir, they’re gone?”

At that point, the Director looked in front of him and, to his eyes, he didn't see Merc, or Web. As if they vanished.

"WHERE DID THEY GO?!"

April 24th 2096
San Flanksisco

The drive in the Badlands was peaceful for Merc and Web. Since they are considered rouge to Horselance due to them betraying em, in their opinions, they felt free of their Projects Shackles. When they arrived in the Equestrian city of San Flanksisco, they began to drive around, luckily enough, Web got her bits during a pit stop.

To lay low for the day, incase Horselance decides to try to track them down, they rented a hotel room for the day, Throughout the day, Web had worked on reprograming the safe, battle, and Crisis modes of Merc's Cybernetic to respond to enter Safe Mode when inside highly populated Equestrian towns and cities, Battle mode when Horselance or any of his soldiers are in the vicinity, and Crisis mode when Merc is severely damaged. It took a good one in a half hours to reprogram the software.

After a while, Merc decided to turn on the radio that was in their hotel room. And, to both Merc and Webs surprise, something came up on the station it was set on.

“We’ve got word from a soldier of the E.E.R.A about
what he saw go on at the area where the Horselance Facility is located
While out on patrol in a nearby area of Horselance, outside the
Town of San Flanksisco, Corporal Flame Torch reported hearing
An Explosion coming from the facility. Along with his report
He said that he saw two mares fleeing from the facility.
We don't know if these two are Horselance operatives
Trying to enter one of our cities, or Renegades.
We’ll keep you updated when more news comes
For all your Great War news updates
This is Echo Wave, signing out.”

Hearing this, Merc turned off the radio. Hearing about Project Horselance made her feel hatred. Not only because they were hurting innocent ponies, but due to their plans. Merc then groaned. "Ugh, I'm sick and tired of hearing about Horselance. They made us do bad things. The Director is a sack of Horse Apples! What's next? Them turning Equestria into a wasteland and everypony moving into vaults?" Merc complained.

Web then facehoof end. "Don't talk about that! I'm sick of hearing that, that reminds me of this crazy pony theorist talking about an alternate universe that is connected to ours where it's a wasteland Equestria and something dealing with a Pegasus Project."

"Sorry."

"Hey it's okay, hey, how about we go to the local bar like you said?"

Deciding that they need to celebrate fleeing Horselance, the two grabbed their hotel room key and proceeded out of the hotel. With a day to celebrate in their hoofs, their only hope, is to get to Canterlot to bring the news to Celestia. But what their biggest hopes were, is if they will be allowed to join the Resistance since they know Horselance more than anypony in Equestria.

April 24th 2096
Canterlot Grand Palace

Inside the Canterlot Palace, Celestia and Luna were seen within the Throne Room. They were sitting in their thrones, talking to a pony in a holographic projection. From the looks of it, they were talking about the current situation with The Great War and what new founding was discovered by Flame Torch. Even to this day, Celestia and Luna saw in their subjects eyes that they lost hope for Celestia and Luna due to how bad the war became since Horselance called it.

At that moment, a mysterious Dark red mare With a Rainbow Mane and what seemed to be battle enhancement armor appeared next to the other Holographic projection of a pony. "Celestia, Luna, Holos." Greeted the pony.

"Hello Star Blitz. Was your mission a success?" Celestia asked while Holos waited for Star Blitz results of the mission. "The mission was a success Ma'am. The hostages held by a Horselance camp were rescued and taken to safety. We have only one wounded due to a gunshot. I took her to the hospital, couldn't let her die in the Badlands. I am proud to report that I have never let a soldier nor friend die under my command."

At this point, Luna let out a smile. "If your ancestor "was" with us today, she be happy that you carry on her loyalty."

Star Blitz let out a little chuckle. "Guess I am like the element of Loyalty."

Holos, who is impressed with Stars update looked at her via Hologram. "Star, you earned yourself a day off."

"Thank you sir, Star out."

With that, Star disconnected. After. A fifty minutes of talking, Holos disconnected leaving Celestia and Luna alone. Hearing about the mission made me happy there is still hope for those who are blinded due to the past many years. Although there were some that needed to see hope, some needed to see that there is still light in the dark times. While, Luna was updating the file record of the missions given to the ponies who are fighting for the country, a pony entered the room, wearing a white coat. On Celestia’s visor, it showed it's I.D and it was one of the Cryo Ponies in charge of the Cryo pod room. "What is it Frost?" Celestia asked.

"Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, you have to see this. Follow me to the Cryo Pod Room."

At the mention of the Cryo room, Celestia and Luna became suspicious, the last time they been in there was ninety years ago when the first test subjects went in there. They began to follow Frost to the Cryo room. Questions were floating in their minds, What was so important to see in the Cryo room? Did a Pony or group of ponies wake up? These questions lingered in their mind as they began to head to the Cryo room. Upon arriving, the three entered.

Going down the stairs, Frost lead em to a area of Cryo Pods. As they approached the ones pointed out by Frost, Celestia recognized these pods. Ninety years ago, Six Ponies entered these pods to become part of a future project. Not only that, but these Six Pods meant something not only to Celestia, but even Princess Luna. What were in these Pods were the Mane 6, and on their timer dials they were about to wake up in three days.

Author's Note

Well here is the first chapter. And, HO Boy, the story will get intense from then on. The Mane 6 will have a minor role, but that is for another time

And yes, when Web mentioned the Crazy pony mentioning a Equestria where ponies live in vaults and something about a Pegasus Project is a direct Reference to Fallout Equestria

Anyway, as stated, plz don't post Hatred or messages in a attacking matter. Any helpful will be allowed to help improve the story,

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed the Chapter.