//-------------------------------------------------------// Fractured love, Fractured trust -by Sentinel053- //-------------------------------------------------------// //-------------------------------------------------------// Meeting the Moon //-------------------------------------------------------// Meeting the Moon Canterlot Station, Six hours later 9pm The jerk of the train coming to a halt, jolted me awake and caused Kodiak to slide face first into the seat in front of us, causing him to yelp in pain and rub his nose with his paw to try and relieve the pain. Me I had to chuckle a little but seeing as how we had to get off I forced myself of the seat, stretching out my arms and legs causing a few joints to pop and crack in the process. Sluggishly grabbing my duffle bag and rifle I exited the passage car I was in, though the sun was set low on the horizon which to my own conclusion meant that Princess Celestia was already lowering it, it still made for a breathtaking sight with the way it refracted of the buildings of Canterlot gave it a fairy tale look and I absolutely loved it, though reality brought me out of my daydreaming as I had one tiny problem, while I had seen the castle from the train, I had no idea how to get from it from the train station. Luckily fate seemed to provide me with salvation and it came in the form of an information desk. walking up the unicorn mare in charge didn't even notice me, so I choose to be a bit of an ass and smacked my hand on the counter as hard as I could. "GYIAH" she yelled as she flailed her arms around while trying to not fall out of her chair, the whole scene made me laugh, only she didn't. "HEY, what's the big idea" she said as she glared at me, as I still chuckled a little. "Sorry, couldn't help myself, what I really need is some help, by any chance how can I get to the castle from here?" I asked only here answer was a bit of a question as well. "Sure, but what for?" she asked raising an eyebrow, and giving a why should I tell you look. "I've orders to report to Canterlot castle asap, since I'm still a newcomer I was hoping perhaps you'd be able to help" I said pulling out the envelope General Prushing showing it to her, this caused her to understand. "sure I guess I can, seeing as how if I didn't you and me probably would get into some serious trouble" I said "so think you can point me in the right direction" "Don't see why not" she said reaching for one of the tourist maps that were on the table she quickly scribbled some chicken scratch on it before showing it to me. "Alright so I you head straight from the station and take silver carriage avenue, then go right at Celestia drive for four blocks and the take a sharp left onto New Moon boulevard and it will be right in front of you and seeing as how you're a human soldier just go through the main entrance, but I'd show them your orders just so there ain't any trouble" She said as I quickly traced the route with a finger, before taking the map from her. "Thanks Miss?" "Silver shine" She said "Thanks again Silver shine, come boy" Said to her earning a bark from Kodiak only his bark got her attention. "Awww you got a friend with you" she said as she got out from behind desk and d'awwwed over Kodiak petting him and scratching behind his ears causing him to flop over on his back demanding in the most adorable way to be given a belly rub. I couldn't do anything except chuckle at the display of friendliness Kodiak was showing he always new when someone or in this case somepony was either a good person/pony or someone to not have anything to do with. "Alright boy come on, we got places to be, things to do and if we're then there will be no late night treat" I said in a mock demanding tone, which seemed to do the trick as he got back up not, before giving Silver shine a playful lick making her giggle. I waved goodbye as I headed on for the castle via the way she had given me, taking a bit of time to soak in the city around me, and I got to say it's nice but I felt as if there was too much that said oh look at me I'm rich I can do whatever want and no one can do anything about it. that feeling was reaffirmed by some of whom I could only guess were some of the upper class residents who whenever they saw me would look away in disgust with their muzzle high in the air, mentally I was telling to go fuck themselves because we had the exact same kind of people back on Earth, only they weren't as bad, I was so caught up in that thought and following the directions that Silver had given that when I looked up there was Canterlot Castle starring right at me, checking me wrist watch I saw that it had taken my less than half an hour to get here impressing myself with that. seeing that I was standing in front of the massive iron gate, and seeing as how there were plenty of civies human and pony alike entering and exiting through I figured I'd help myself and go right in except fate chose then to intervene. "You there halt" A guard called out an earth pony mare , cursing under my breath I turned to face her a look of annoyance on my face. "Who do you think you are, coming like this armed and all, well who are you" She said to which I handed her my orders, which she quickly read through while glancing at me multiple times, before throwing her arms in the air with an annoyed huff. "Of all the fucking days, we just had to have one of yours come, why? why did it have to be me" She said with a groan looking at my shocked face before she busted out laughing. "Oh I can't *hahahaha* you fell *bahaha* fell for that ho boy " she said as she regained her composure. "Sorry I figured it'd be hilarious as hell to see the look on your face if I did that, the names Golden Gleam Solar Guard lieutenant Second Class , at your service Major" "O'Bannon, Connor O'Bannon, United States Marine Corp, pleasure meeting lieutenant Gleam" I replied "Ya know you actually had me for a moment, when you made your comment I was like the fuck is happening, and then you burst out laughing" "Well, I'm glad someone here appreciates my sense of humor" She said with a smirk and her hands on her hips, and a goofy grin on her face, before she started laughing again. "Come on I show you where you can report and then your guest quarters and then it off to meet Princess Luna" she said though the last remark caught me and I mean completely by surprise "What, why?" I asked demandingly "Well she likes to meet newcomers from Earth who show up right what Night Court starts, she enjoys meeting new pon er people" She said as she corrected herself gaining a chuckle from me. "If that's the case then come on lieutenant we're burning moonlight" I said as I started to walk away with Golden Gleam following close behind, directing to the check-in, which surprisingly and conveniently was being run by a fellow Marine,Who would've known that there would've been other Marines here as well. After that, Golden Gleam Decided to show me around some of the castle and let me tell you it was huge, the library was literally four stories of never ending books. As she directed to where the Marine barracks, along with its attach mess hall, armory, med clinic/hospital and the other essential parts which had been built into the castle she led me to a large room that was the size of a luxury hotel suite. "What're we doing here?" I asked "Well since your going to be helping the Royal guard be up to date on training not only to match the nation of Equis but of Earth, those who are helping with the training are to be given special quarters to reside in" she said with a cocky grin and her arms crossed, me I didn't quite know how to react to this. "Well I was kinda hoping to bunk with my fellow marines but, if I've got this option in front of me, might as well take" I replied taking about half an hour to put my things away and shoving the useless furniture it to the hall despites Golden's protest I didn't let up, striping out of my gear and exo suit, I grabbed my camo BDU combat cap and left my 1911 strapped to my hip along with the spare clips, because from my experience it never ever, EVER hurt to be prepared even in the calmest of situations. "what?" I asked as she eye balled my pistol still on my hip "You're not leaving the gun?" She asked "There's nothing that's gonna happen especially here" as she gestured to pretty much the whole castle "Maybe here, but on Earth and in some of the countries I've bent deployed too, have taught me otherwise" I replied with a stern glare. "Really? care to elaborate?" she asked "No not really, some of those memories are too painful, lost a few good friends thanks to assholes wanting to negotiate peace only to blast the peace talks with ten tons of high explosives" I replied as I walked out past her noticing the look of shock on her face. "I-I i'm sorry I shouldn't have asked I didn't think that could happen to you" She said before I quickly stopped her "It's okay, the fuckers who did it are now six feet under" I said "I moved passed it but, that hasn't stopped me from honoring those who died, now which way to the throne room" "Come one" Golden replied quickly back to her smartass self leading down the lock and ridiculously tall corridors that snaked throughout the place before we came to a set of ornate doors embezzled with a half a sun on one door and half a moon on the other. "Nervous" Golden Gleam asked "More like uncertain" I said "Don't worry Princess Luna won't bite, much" She said as she pushed the massive door open with little effort it was as if the door was normal sized and not fifteen feet high. The throne was rather nice most of the windows were stained glass depicting many of the events that from what I'd heard princess Twilight and her friends has accomplished but that wasn't what really caught my attention it was the twin thrones at the opposite end on a bright gold with a sun engraved in it, the other a complete opposite, instead of bright and friendly it was a Midnight Blue with black trim and sitting upon it was Princess Luna Ruler of the Night and Dreams (http://ambris.deviantart.com/art/Luna-Print-563636866) I was a bit nervous at meeting her however, when she saw us both her stoic look was replaced with a warm smile, now let me tell you some things I noticed about her. She had a nice hour glass figure, she stood at about six foot two had some of the biggest wings I ever saw they probably had a twelve foot wingspan. And finally her freaking breasts, they must have been at least a low to mid E cup size, I'd never seen human girls with breast that size. overall I thought she was a living example of beauty, though my reaction to her was pretty much that of a Marine "Well hello, you must be our new guest I must say your a bit taller, and more handsome then what I originally thought" She said her voice was well indescribable by the way it sounded. "your highness Major Connor O'Bannon, it's an honor to meet you" I said with a stiff salute earning a few giggles from her "a pleasure meet you Major, may I as have your ever met royalty before ?" She asked a smile on her face, but her eyes seemed to be searching for a precise answer. "No, in fact you're actually the first I've ever meet so, I hope you don't mind if I treat you as a regular person" I said "I believe I can I can tell you have a kind soul, if I may is it alright if I use your first name" She asked "Only when I'm not on duty" I replied "I think I'll be able to agree to that, I can us becoming good friends during your stay. Oh that reminds me I wish for you to come to Day court early tomorrow my sister will want to meet you as well" She said ruffling her wings a bit. "Of course princess, I'll make sure to be there bright and early" I said "Thank you, this shall mean a lot to me, but I might suggest that you return to your room and get some rest you'll need it for when you start training the new recruits" she said before returning to her throne, we then next did little talking learning more about each other's home even going as far personal interests and what hobbies we had, that was until a lack of sleep started to take hold. I bid me farewell to Luna but not before giving me a wink as she waved goodbye as I left. I made sure to thank Golden gleam for the tour who told me that I'm off to a good start if Luna wanted to be friends before closing my door, Kodiak was already asleep by the bed, me I followed his example and fell asleep after setting the alarm clock on the nightstand t wake me up at six, drifting of into the dream realm knowing that Luna would provide me with a peaceful dream for my first night. I would need it because I'd be meeting the Sun Princess the next day. Author's Note To clear up some confusion the Exo suits in this story are like those in Advanced Warfare but appearance wise they look similar to the ones in the movie Elysium except they don't require being bolted on to your body. now for tech wise Earth is technologically at the same level as in Advanced Warfare there just isn't as heavy as a reliance on drone tech as there is in the game, Equestria well they have a similar level of development just its about 10-15 years behind earth and magic is still a major contender since its been around forever in terms of weapon Humanity is where it was in Black Ops 2 where as Equis and more specifically Equestria is where weapons tech is right now. other than that I hope you've enjoyed this chapter any feed back would be great. //-------------------------------------------------------// Meeting the sun //-------------------------------------------------------// Meeting the sun Multiple POV changes you have been warned otherwise enjoy :derpytongue2: https://static.fimfiction.net/images/emoticons/derpytongue2.png Connor's pov As the first ray of sunlight shined through the window, the alarm clock on the night stand goes off, groaning in frustration I quickly slam it against the wall, sadly shattering it. Opening my eyes I quickly shut them since opening them let the light of the sun shine directly in them, and yet I opened them again. as I looked towards the sun as it rose , I thought it looked beautiful compared to Earth's sun, its warmth felt gentle and loving unlike the one I was use to. Climbing out of bed I grabbed my toiletries bag grabbing a quick shower, and a quick shave. I wanted to look my best, since today was the day I'd be meeting Celestia. From what I had heard she was described as being a literal god of beauty, sadly what I learned about was shortly after she was forced to banish her sister the nobles used her depression to do whatever they wanted and ran rampant for years, only being reigned in in the past century and a half. Well If Luna said we might be friends then maybe while I train the new guards I could try to make friends with Celestia, or at least. "Slipping on my class A Dress Blues, taking a little time to arrange my service ribbons and medals before donning my two Medals of honor around my neck, topped of with my white barracks cover (peaked cap) and my white gloves. Taking one last look in the mirror to check and make sure everything looked right, I hook a leash on Kodiaks collar before heading towards the throne room. on the way I met a familiar face, Golden gleam walking down the corridor towards me "Good morning Major" She said in a cheerful voice and a slight skip IN her step "Morning lieutenant, man can't wait to meet Celestia" I said "That's Princess Celestia Major" Golden retort with a mock attitude "I'mma kidding, the way you treated Princess Luna last night seemed to make her quite happy, so if you could perhaps treat Celestia the same way, not as a goddess who can't be approached but as a normal mare please" a sad look had now replaced her smile. "I'll sure as hell try, If anyone doesn't like, well then they can piss of" I replied to her, that seemed to make her demeanor change back to her cheery attitude rather fast. "That sounds rather sweet even though she has her sister she's never really had any real friends, heck the last pony she courted has been eight hundred year" she said "Well then if I' going to try to befriend her, or try to make her happy I've got a bit a work to do" I said while earning a bark of agreement from Kodiak. golden could only Smile before I was suddenly the victim of a surprise bear hug only for Golden to realize what she was doing, letting go with an embarrassed blush on her face. " Ehehehe..... sorry sir" she stammered trying to look sorry as she fidgeted with her thumbs ".....Don't ever do that again" I said stoically Before I started snickering "Kidding but, seriously don't someone or somepony may get the wrong idea" "Fair enough, but thanks for trying" She said before we chose to resume the task at hand, however Golden then asked me something I wasn't entirely expecting "so what with the dog, is he like your pet or something?" She asked "Sorta, Kodiak well technically he's my pet but also a bomb dog" I replied "Bomb dog?" She asked "what the hay 's that" "Basically he's trained to find hidden explosive devices, whether they be trip mines I.E.D's, plus he's also trained as an attack dog" I said earning a nod of understanding. "that and I've had since he was a puppy never left my side since" "Awwwwwe" She glomped as she gave him a quick scratch behind his ears, which he rather enjoy before long we had arrived back at the throne room sadly they were closed, which meant that morning court was in session. Taking a few deep breaths and steeling my nerves, feeling that feeling of calm before you ever have to take a sniper shot. "Ready?" Golden asked "As ready as I'll ever be" I said before stepping forward as the doors opened and there she was. Celestia Princess of the Day and sun (http://ambris.deviantart.com/art/Celestia-Print-563636641) Celestia's pov This morning is taking Forever I groan in my head as the doors close, So far it's been nothing but simple tasks or ridiculous petitions the nobles have been complaining about, either with lowering taxes so they have to pay less or wanting to remove an orphanage simply because the foals playing driving them crazy. "Ugh, twelve annoying nobles down and I've already have a migraine" I groaned whilst rubbing my temples "Kibitz who's next please say it's not another one of Bluebloods foolish rant" "Actually quite the opposite, it appears your Majesties that we've received a new guard instructor from Earth" Kibitz said looking over his twenty foot list "Apparently he's from the 'United States Marine Corp' and well decorated, if I do say so myself" "You don't say, he sounds rather interesting, I may schedule a personal meeting so I can get to know him better" I said only for the moment to be interrupted by the doors opening. Lo and behold in came the very same Marine Kibitz was just talking about. I have to admit after taking just one look at he, I can tell he's quite handsome for a human stallion, just looking at him, I can tell he's well built and rather strong but, what I find the most fascinating, are his hazel colored eyes, I could just get lost in them and never want to leave. After that last thought my chest suddenly went tight and I could feel my check get warm, am.... am I falling for him, after just seeing him once?, oh if I am I hope it's not like the coltfriend I had eight centuries ago who tried to usurp me. I then squealed in thought as I saw the dog with him, it's so cute I just wanna cuddle with it. "Good morning Princess Celestia" He said giving a quick salute, before returning to attention. "Good morning to you as well mister?" "O'Bannon, Major Connor O'Bannon Marine Corp 4th Division" He said. He seems like the typical human soldiers I met so far, but looking into his mind discreetly, I found that the most prominent thought was that he thinks I'm drop dead beautiful, I've..... I've never had anypony or anyone say that about me and the emotions from it are not one of wanting to use me, though the his next biggest thought was wanting to call me Princess big boobs, I couldn't help but mentally giggle seeing as how I've always had a F cup size, His thoughts weren't that of a stallion who saw me as a goddess, but was the pure truth, I wanted to cry with joy but I couldn't seeing as how he'd be training the guards maybe I can later, meet with to try and get to know him maybe become friends. I quickly came back to reality seeing as I still had to speak to him about a few issues. "Thank you joining us, this morning Major, I've been told, by your nations ambassador, what we would be receiving somepony to help improve the quality of the Royal Guards train curriculum, seeing as how by your worlds standards we're no more than children with toy weapons" I said "Sadly this was the price we paid for not going to war for nine hundred years" "Believe me princess it understandable, at least you've kept up on technological and scientific development" He said "Seeing as though magic seems to be a basis for most things here at least, you've developed tech that functions much like humanities" As I sit here and listen to what he he's to say mind you he is making a fair point I can't help but feel my cheeks getting warm again, I I must actually be falling for him, I may have to talk to Cadence about this hopefully he has feeling for me as well. "Princess are you alright you seem somewhat distracted" He asks "Wha? oh sorry I've just a lot of things on my mind is all" I replied "So when will you be able to start training the newest recruits" "If I can tomorrow, seeing as how this will be my first time doing something such as this I'd like ample time to prepare for it" He said "Hmm and what will different with how you train them, compared to how they're being trained right now?" I asked being curious as to how he could make the guard better than what it is right now. "Wonderful" I said practically bouncing in my seat "Until then, please have a fun filled day and thank you for this chance at meeting you" "As was being able to meet you" He said before giving me a quick salute and turning sharply before vacating the room. Once he'd left and the doors closed I released my breath that I didn't even know I was holding in, while leaning back into my throne thought this seemed to catch Kibitz attention "I dare say princess are you feeling a little under the weather?" He asked showing his concern "No it's something else, something I haven't felt in a long time" I said to him, still panting a little as I tried to catch my breath "Oh, and whatever could that be?" He asked raising an eyebrow "I think,.... I think I may have a crush on him" I said trying to hide the heavy blush on my cheeks. "A crush on a commoner and a human at least, hmmmph whatever could you see in him" Kibitz retorted apparently the idea seemed some what of shock to him. "I do not know at the moment but looking discretely into his mind he was saying some lovely and kind thought" I explained, the more about them I thought the more I felt my crush on him grow even more perhaps in these following weeks if not months if should follow what my heart is telling me, maybe even try to court him. Whatever happens I can only help. Connor's POV Once I was out of the throne room I quickly had to brace my hands on my knees as I caught my breath, luckily Golden Gleam had been listening to the whole thing through the door, guess she doesn't know the meaning of privacy, as when the door opened she got smacked by it pretty hard "Soooo...... how'd it go sir?" She asked, while still rubbing her muzzle to relieve the pain of violently meeting a door. "Well, good despite the fact I got this crazy as hell feelings running through me" I said standing back up, taking a few deep breaths. "Feeling? what kinda feelings and for whom, sir?" She asked "You may think this is funny lieutenant, but I honestly think I've fallen head over heels for Princess Celestia" I said looking to her expecting her to laugh at me instead it was quite the opposite. "Snrrrk, bahahaha-are you serious?, wait you are serious hahahaha *cough cough cough" She said choking over her laughter, nearly dying of it too. "What I mean when I met Princess Luna last night I admit she was hot but, just now I think I've met the girl or in this care mare of my dreams" I said "I truly believe this because the last few women I dated either broke up because they couldn't handle me being a marine or because they were cheating on me, so I want to believe this" "Hey, don't worry about it sir, your secret if safe with me and I'm pretty good at keeping secrets" She said "Besides she could use someone like you, I really, really don't want to talk about what I know happen with her last suitor but, let's say it ended tragically" "Fair" I replied only then for my stomach to make its presence known to us "Well looks like it's that time come on, Kodiak let's go get something to eat" I said earning a bark before making my way to the mess hall unaware that Celestia was starting to have feeling for me as well. Author's Note If anyone would like to proofread and help me edit that would be awesome seeing as this is my first romance and clop story. also Kibitz Is Celestia's royal scheduler in the comics and in Mlp micro series issue #10 think of him as an aide like our dear mare Raven //-------------------------------------------------------// Training Day 1 //-------------------------------------------------------// Author's Note Guess what I went back and fixed all the grammar errors on the first chapters so they're no longer eye sore's. Now sit back, relax get you selves comfortable for an impression of our beloved Sergeant Hartman ;P Also, text that is in all caps is to imply yelling just like a real drill sergeant or other characters:derpytongue2: https://static.fimfiction.net/images/emoticons/derpytongue2.png p.s next time getting to know Each other, in a friendly way Training Day 1 March 28, 2043 Canterlot Castle, Royal Guard Barracks. Today's the first day I start training the new recruits. And I pretty much expected them to think of me as the world's biggest asshole, since every private thinks that way of a drill sergeant or in this case drill major. For what I' planned I am going to make their training a literal living hell, to the point they'd be begging for a dishonorable discharge, but hey boot camp isn't supposed to be easy. Slipping on full combat gear including me exosuit minus my assault rifle, I made my way down to the guard barracks at about four thirty in the morning, seeing as how when I was in basic, we were always told to start 'Bright and Early'. However right as I was about to throw open the door I could hear what sounded like, someone was trying to ride a raging bull in doors, note to self see what that actually looks like. Deciding I've given them enough time to get ready, I threw the door open just as they were all lining up in front of their bunks. "Good morning, assholes" I said whilst walking down the middle of the room "I am Major O'Bannon your new drill instructor, and the from this point on you will speak only when spoken to, and the first and last word coming out of your disease ridden mouths will be sir, do YOU flea infested animals understand that" 'SIR YES SIR!" They all yelled in reply "Bullshit I can't hear you, sound off like you've got a pair" I yelled "SIR YES SIR!" "If you ladies leave my barracks, If you manage to survive basic training, you will be a weapon, you will be paying for war" I said as I came to an abrupt stop, before making a sharp 180 turn to face the door I came in. "but until that day, you are nothing, your not even ponies, you're nothing but a heaping pile of unorganized amphibian shit" "You will not like me, nor will you appreciate me, I am tough but I am fair, there will be no racial bigotry" I continued "I don't giving a rosy rats ass if you're a Unicorn, Pegasus, or Earth pony, or even a Fucking changeling, here you are all equally worthless and it's my job to cut out those who don't deserve to be here, because as of right now you are no longer in the Royal guard, your now part of the United States Marine Corp. Do you maggots understand that?" SIR YES SIR! Coming to a stop in front of a unicorn mare, I decided to get started. Well little missy lets see what you're made of. "What's your name shit head?" I said getting up in her face. "Sir private Star Struck sir" She replied "Bullshit, from now on your private fuzz ball. Do you like that name" I said "SIR YES SIR" "Well lemme tell you something private fuzz ball, they don't serve apple pie and peach cobbler in my mess hall on a daily basis" I said "Is that you Celestia, is this cake?" A cheeky pony said, thinking I wouldn't hear it oh were they ever so wrong. "Who said that? Who fuck said that" I yelled, quickly walking down to where it had come from."WHO'S THE SLIMY LITTLE CHINESE COMMUNIST SHIT TWINKLE TOED PIECE OF SHIT WHO JUST ASKED TO BE EXECUTED" The candidates had been narrowed down to a Pegasus stallion, and a an earth pony mare, and boy let me tell you I am pissed beyond reasoning right now. "NOBODY HUH? THE FAIRY FUCKING GODMOTHER SAID IT, OUT FUCKING STANDING. I'LL P.T YOU ALL TILL YOU'RE DEAD, I'LL P.T YOU TILL YOUR BRAINS ARE RUNNING OUT YOUR ASS" I yelled, before grabbing the mare by her uniform collar. "WHAT IS YOU YA SCROUNGY LITTLE FUCK, HUH? " As I yelled in her face "Sir no sir" She exclaimed back "YOU PIECE OF SHIT YOU LOOK LIKE A FUCKING IDIOT, I BET IT WAS YOU" I yelled shaking her once as hard as I could. "Sir no sir" she said trying to defend herself "Sir I said it sir" The stallion "well no shit, what've we got a fucking comedian, private joker, I admire your sense of honesty, hell I like you, you can over any time and fuck my sister" I said before delivering a servo enhanced punch to his stomach, forcing onto his hands and knees. "You little scumbag, I've got your name, I've got your ass, you will how I teach you, now get up get on your hooves" I barked as he struggled to stand back up. "You had best un-fuck yourself, before I unscrew your head, and shove a grenade down your neck" "Sir yes sir" he said "Private Joker why did you join my beloved Corp" I demanded with hostility "Sir, to fight sir" "So you're a fighter?" "Sir yes sir" "then lemme see your war face" I ordered "Sir" "YOU GOT A WAR FACE?" I said only for him to stand there like a damn idiot."AAAAAAAAHHHHH, THAT'S A WAR NOW LEMME SEE YOUR WAR FACE" "RAAAHHHH" "BULLSHIT YOU DIDN'T CONVINCE ME, LET ME SEE YOUR REAL WAR FACE" I YELLED "RAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH" "YOU DIDN'T CONVINCE ME, WORK ON IT" I said, before going back to the mare, hearing his reply of sir yes sir. "What your excuse?" I asked the mare getting right up in her face. "Sir excuse for what Sir" "I'M ASKIN THE FUCKIN QUESTIONS HERE PRIVATE DO YOU UNDERSTAND" I yelled "Sir yes sir" she replied "Well thank ya very much, now all of ya outside in the yard now , come double time it" I bark getting an instant reply as they all scrambled to get outside. I noticed one unicorn thinking it'd be a great idea, to try and teleport outside so as to be out first. Well I'm not about to let that happen seeing as how it would give all of those who are unicorns an unfair advantage. "Not so fast scumbag, if you so much as think about using magic to get outside, I'll break that fucking thing off your head and shove it so far up your ass you won't be able to take a shit for a month straight" I said, he quickly got the idea and decided it would be wiser to get out normally that risk not being able to use the crapper. Once outside they fell into formation as I inspected everyone of them. "Today ladies we'll be continuing your training , in hand to hand were your last instructor left off, since his sad demise" I said "Assisting me will be, Sergeant Major Monroe, and Staff Sergeant Peters, along with Master Sergeant Brody, Gentlemen" "Listen up fur balls today will be training you how to kill man or pony, with your bare hands or damn shoelace, now get your asses into groups before I have break my foot of in your ass" Monroe called which quickly got the ponies to scatter into groups of four and five, not know that from a high balcony I was being watched. Three Hour's later, Third person pov with Celestia and Luna For the past three hours after the morning court session had ended, Celestia decided that she wished to observe how Connor was doing, with the new recruits. Surprisingly he was doing better than what she was expecting "Tia, I must express how wonderful it is to see lackluster training regiment of the Guard being replaced with something more akin to what we had a thousand years ago, back.. back when mother was still with us" Luna said as a few tears rolled down her cheeks. Seeing this Celestia crossed the small gap between them and embraced her sister in a comforting hug, just as Luna started to cry a bit "Shhh, shhh it's alright LuLu, I miss mother as well, I know one day she may return, but until then we can only hope and pray that she does." Celestia said as she ran a hand through Luna's starry mane. "Come on let's keep watching, I still want to see what also Major O'Bannon has to teach " "M'kay sis *sniff*" Luna said wiping away her tears she returned her attention to the training yard below, off the human soldiers leading the drills and lessons, one stuck out more than the others, chiefly because of the way her carried himself, along with the way he'd shout and yell orders to those he was teaching. "Tia who is that one human, who seems to be 'working them to death'?, he seems rather familiar" Luna asked as she continued to watch the display of a earth pony stallion get thrown on his ass while he struggled to escape the choke hold the human had him in. "That's Major O'Bannon, he did say he would start today, and it seems he putting them through the ringer" Celestia said gazing down at him, the more she watched the more she fantasized about him holding her in his warm embrace maybe even sharing a romantic evening together. "Tia...Tia, Tia" Luna shouted to regain her sister's attention, seeing Celestia space out as she watched Connor demonstrate another form to dis-arm somepony she had completed tuned out the outside world. "Huh wha sorry Luna I seemed to have spaced out" She replied "I'll say, Tia may I ask? I saw how you seemed entranced by Major O'Bannon and the heavy blush that set on your face" Luna started off "Do you..... Do you have a crush on Major O'Bannon?" Seeing as how she wouldn't be able to hide it from Luna, she mentally decided it would be best to come clean. "Yes, I do, it's the first time if fallen for anypony since Steel shod nearly eight centuries ago, I know you learned why that ended badly, if he feel the same for me I want to be able to love somepony again "She exclaimed "That I could tell he thought I was beautiful" "Oh! and how did you know that?" Luna asked in a demanding tone "I uh.. I I discretely looked into his mind and his most prominent thought were holy crap she's drop dead beautiful and all hail Princess big boobs' that's how I know" Celestia said as she started to profusely sweat because her little secret was now out. However Luna's reaction was different that what she expected, for one Celestia thought she would be a bit disappointed knowing her sister had a crush on someone who wasn't a noble and was a different species entirely. This time however, was different instead Luna looked as if she were about to explode, in a good way though. "OH THANK MOTHER, Tia this makes me so happy, if you feel it's right why don't you try and court him maybe start off as friends just so you can see if he has feelings develop into something wonderful" Luna said as she bounced up and down with glee. "Perhaps you're right Luna, maybe I should" Celestia said as she returned to her seat and continued to watch, before an idea pop into her head. "Maybe, I can even get us to have some fun in bed?" She said with a sly smile on her face, though Luna's reaction was somewhat between trying to speak and choke on the cup of wine she was trying to drink "Sister, act mature, yes that may happen but, you're still a princess so have some class" Luna said as she wipe the wine from her lips "A mare can dream can't she?" Celestia asked with a smirk "I suppose *Yawn* I think I'll retire to bed now, see you tonight sis" Luna said as they shared one last hug before luna returned to her bed chambers for some needed sleep. As Luna left Celestia thought of how she could earn Connor's affection and love, perhaps it would be best to try and know the man first before getting serious. Back down in the training yard Connor's pov So far it's been painstaking slow, it like trying to teach a toddler how to use a computer with out being their to actual teach them. However, they've progressed at rate that's better than what I'd hoped for, seeing as how they can take down an unarmed/armed attacker, some are even able to take down a marine that were and exo suit and that normally a challenging task in itself.. Since it also happened to be time for breakfast I dismissed them, giving them a half hour's time to eat, since that's all I ever got in basic "Listen up Scumbags, head to the mess hall and grab some chow, ya got thirty minutes so make it quick" I yelled, the fact that they were being rewarded with food, seemed to revitalize them enough that they were literally climbing over each other to get there. the whole scene made me laugh a bit, it even made Body laugh as well though he was able to hide it somewhat, however our bit of humor was quickly interrupted by the arrival of Celestia, man I felt my heart flutter just looking at her, seeing her rainbow mane flowing and tail flowing in the non-existent wind, the way she walked and the small bounce of her breast against the pink dress (http://fairdahlia.deviantart.com/art/Regal-Celestia-550958126) she was wearing. surrounding her were at least ten of the Solar Guard, and from what I had been told by some of the other marines they were like the Secret service for the President, while the same was said for her sisters Night guard either way, I was joyed to see her. "Good afternoon Major, I hope I'm not interrupting anything" She asked me, sadly I discovered the hypnotic effect of her voice but, I was still able to focus enough to reply. "Not at the moment your Majesty, all things considered, they're doing rather well seeing as since I'm the one training them, and being my first time training raw recruits" I said, the fact is I appreciated her company. "Anything In particular, you wish to have explained?" "actually there is, the suit you're wearing, what is it's purpose?" she asked "I've seen many human soldiers wearing them, but it's purpose eludes me" "Of course Princess, what I'm wearing is a MK5 M58 exosuit" I said "What is does, is that it can enhance the wearer's strength and speed, allow them to carry extremely heavy loads as if it had zero weight and can negate any impact damage" "Interesting, tell me, what else can it do beside said roles?" She asked as she took hold of my arm, examining the servo arms causing my heart to skip a few beats in the process. "Well b-b-besides that there a few attachable mods such as a grappling launcher, a deployable riot shield or a cloaking device which is still in trials right now" I said. she seemed quite fascinated by what I said and by the look on her face, she was deep in thought, hopefully whatever is was she was thinking, it would be something weird and downright wrong. "Thank you for telling me this, I would however like to try something" she said her voice full of curiosity, which in turn made us curious as well as to what it was she wished to do. "Care to elaborate princess?" I asked still unsure as to what she had planned. "I wish to test the strength on a human, who has been fully trained to see it these exosuits, to see if it can match the physical strength of an Alicorn" she said with some enthusiasm, me I was taken back, I'd heard how Alicorn's had a strength factor that topped even the most it earth ponies. Truth be told I honestly was afraid that she might break the arm or the soldier and of the suit of whom ever volunteered. "Well, um okay so any volunteers out of us four?" I asked looking to the sergeant's all of whom had backed away a bit, I wouldn't blame them seeing as the first example of Alicorn strength we'd seen was a segment of footage of Luna tossing twenty five hundred pound boulder, and toss it as if it weighed nothing at all. So for all intents and purposes, I wasn't really looking forward to this. "Alright then princess, anything particular you have in mind" I asked knowing could be a number of things " I believe I do, how about a little arm wrestling?"she said with a goofy grin on her face, God I can't stop fantasizing about her, but I'll take her up on that challenge. "Challenge accepted your Majesty, Brody Peters set us up" I said, both sergeants quickly grabbing a few small crates and a medium sized one to use as our table. sitting down on one side and Celestia on the other we locked our right hands together while using our free hand to gain extra leverage. "Ready, set, wrestle" Brody counted off, immediately I could tell even with my exo on this was going to be close and rather difficult. Celestia was putting in as much effort as I was, neither of us was gaining the upper hand, seeing as how we were even for the most part, I decided it was time to press home my attack and started to increase how much strength I was committing , however She did the same only ten fold eventually our ten minute struggle came to an end when she finally forced my hand against the crate. Screaming pain shot through my whole arm as she let go, it was so bad the I cradled it like a newborn child. How ever her expression went from one of victory to that of shock and worry. before I could protest she'd taken hold of it. "Oh... oh, oh I'm so sorry Major, please let me heal it?" She asked as she was about to cast some sort of spell on my arm, only I yanked it away. "No, Princess I'm sure it'll be fine, let the medical staff look at it, but if you're offering to fix it right here right now then please go ahead" I said, and just like that her mood went from sad and sorry to bright and happy. Gently taking my hand she closed her eyes and her horn became enveloped in a golden aura, while at the same time I could feel a warm tingling sensation running throughout my arm. the small bone fractures and the single large one suddenly didn't ache, or hurt anymore. "That just.... thank you" I said in astonishment giving my fingers and arm muscles a good flex to double check. "Y-your welcome Major, Thank you for this demonstration, I-if you'll excuse me I've some personal things to attend to" she replied before hurrying off, only she was unaware that I'd noticed the heavy blush on her face, as she had looked at me. "Man Sir, with all due respect, I think she's got a crush on you" Monroe said, well he was right she probably does, only thing is so do I. I just don't really know how to approach her. Maybe I can get to know her when I get a few days leave. Turning back to the now returned recruits it was time to get back to work. "ALL RIGHT SCUMBAGS BACK TO WORK" I yelled as they went back to practicing, yeah I'm gonna like it here, still unaware that a certain Sun Princess was watching me from the shadows fantasizing, about being with me. //-------------------------------------------------------// Getting to know you //-------------------------------------------------------// Getting to know you April 29th,2043 Canterlot Marine Barracks mess hall Sometimes, life can really suck, sometimes it can be totally awesome. And today was that day. For one my way of training the news guards as Marine's and not some push overs was really starting to pay off, each day they were improving by leaps and bounds. Except for one thing, when I'd woken up and gave Kodiak his breakfast, there was a sealed letter that had been slipped under my door. Unlike a normal letter this one had The seals of Celestia and Luna on it. Opening it I quickly read through its contents and lo and behold I was invited to have tea with Celestia at around ten o'clock, and to come in my basic camo uniform, it even said to bring Kodiak with me, and was signed from Celestia.To say I was surprised was an understatement, because in the few weeks since I'd arrived I was able to talk to her a few times but not enough to really know her. So here I was sitting in the Mess with my fellow marines, chatting as if we were just civvies and not soldiers. Some of them were surprised, to learn I'd got the invitation and a few blew it out of proportion, saying that I'd be getting a piece of ass to which I retorted by pulling rank and threatening those who instigated it with scrub duty for the next three months, that guy t them to shut up fast. After that I still had a few hours before I was supposed to meet Celestia, so I had to think of something to do, so what better way to waste some time by going to the firing range. Heading back I grabbed my AR and my 1911 seeing as how it would be in my best interest to get some practice in with it as well seeing that being a soldier you've always have to remain in peak condition, or be the best we can. Making sure I was set, I took off for the range at a leisurely pace saluting Marines and guards as I went with Kodiak a few paces behind me, a dopey smile like look on his face as he trotted with me, with not a care in the world. And at exactly that moment here came Golden Gleam, her arm around another guard a mare to be exact as they walked down the laughing and giggling to what ever it was they thought was hilarious. "Good morning lieutenant, mind introducing me to your friend?" I asked "Morning Major, and yes I can, this here is the love of my life, my special somepony. My marefriend, lieutenant Ruby silk" She said, wait marefriend huh never took Golden for being a lesbian, but hey who am I to judge the same thing happens all the time on Earth so guess this is somethin else our worlds have in common. "No shit, well never took you for a fillyfooler lieutenant" I said still getting over that revelation, which she just looked at me with a look on her face that said 'Are you serious'. "Well I am so get used to it sir" She said sticking her tongue out at me. "respect the uniform lieutenant, also what was so funny that you both looked like you're going to die from laughing?" I said "Oh just something from when I was younger" Ruby said "Trust me its best that it'd stay between me and Golden" "Fair enough, none of me business anyway" I said "I'll leave you two to do what ever it is you plan on doing" "WAIT" Ruby Silk screamed "You've got your weapons, can I see you use, huh can I, can I, can I please?" Oh god the puppy eyes she's giving me are too much, but why the hell not, it wouldn't hurt anyone. "Eh why not, Might as well, hell bring what ever weapons you've got and we'll compare whose is better" I said "Come on the range be this way" "Ruby please remember to not fan girl again like last time" Golden said as she and Ruby followed back down to the barracks earning looks of what the hell and cat calls from the marines that where still there,, only what ruby chose as her reply was, well kinda weird, and funny too. "Whaaaat, I can't help it if I'm a weaponholic, I just can't were ever I see a new awesome weapon I've got to see how it works" Ruby Silk replied "And you know you love me" She emphasized this by planting a kiss on Golden cheek causing her to go beet red, me however I burst out laughing at the display of affection. "What, it's funny"I said getting a deadpanned look from both of them"Aw screw you both you don't get someone else's humor, come on we're here" I said as I pushed open the door revealing the massive enclosed range because let's be honest an open love fire range in the middle of a populated city has warnings written all over it and accidents just waiting to happen, cause lets be honest who really wants to be out taking a stroll, minding their own business and boom, enter stray bullet and a possible and accidental death. Not the best way to start relations with a new world. "A few ground rules, number one you will were ear and eye protection. Number two if you've got any ranged weapons, for gods sake keep them pointed away from everyone" I said with irritation even though I was kidding. "Really? You really think we're that stupid, I mean yes I can get a little to enthusiastic, because I love seeing new weapon but, not as much as I love Golden but really?" Ruby Silk said with an irritated tone, though with her squeaky voice it made her sound like a child. "Ruby, he's kidding do you really think he'd think that, he been doing this longer than we have and I'm sure he's seen plenty of fighting to back it up " Golden Gleam said which had a strange affect Ruby went from all pouting and what not to completely happy. Talk about confusing as hell, I mean who can do that on a whim. The answer, ponies. "Well, that's was.... that happened , moving on ladies say hello to my little friend MR. M8A1" I said as I showed it off, which was causing Silk to literally start drooling. "Sooooo cooool" She said is a trance like state, okay this is really weird I thought aloud in my head. "Well, pay close attention there will be a quiz after" I said as I grab a fresh mag, slapping it home before select semi-auto and aiming down range. "Going hot" I said making sure Ruby Silk and Golden both had Eye protection and ear protection on, before letting of eight rounds in quick succession hitting dead center of where the heart would be. A quick flick of the selector switch and I emptied the mag in under two seconds. "Range is clear" I shouted , before looking over only to see Ruby Silk with a euphoric look on her face "So.... Awesome" She said before her legs gave out prompting Golden to catch her, leaning her marefriend against the wall. "Ruby? Ruby RUBY please speak to me?" Golden asked in a frightened voice, shaking Ruby slightly, who suddenly defying reality itself bounced back as if nothing happened. "THAT IS SO AWESOME" Ruby screamed in a rather painfully high pitched squeal, which made mine and Golden's ears ring and feel like they were going to start bleeding any second, being able to squeal that loud defies all known science. "Well, despite the ringing in my ear's I'm glad you liked it" I said "Now it your turn come on so me what you got" "Oh yes, yes, yes time to show of ma babies" Ruby said as she wiped out two and I do say rather impressive machine pistols (http://warframe.wikia.com/wiki/Akstiletto_Prime?file=PrimeAkstiletto.png), that seemed to match her personality quite. without so much as a warning she started spraying magic propelled bullets down range, with the cheesiest grin on her face. in a fraction of a second the clip in each pistol was empty, while Ruby her self turned around to face us. "Ta-DA" She said taking a pose that would make most girls d'awww. All I could do was stare in shock and how despite her lack of control managed to reduce a not one but five targets to nothing but saw dust. That rate of fire rivals a freaking mini gun for hell's sake, how she got a hold of, or built a pair of guns that fire at the rate of a mini gun is one of those mysteries I don't want to have answered. "Okay lieutenant Silk how in the hell did you get weapons that fire hat fast? I asked still dumbfounded at her weapons. "Major do you really want to know, because when she explained it to me it didn't make and ounce of sense to me" Golden Gleam said to me, if that's the case maybe it's best left as a mystery that doesn't need solving, still I was curious as to what Goldens preferred weapon was. "So Golden Gleam what ya got up you sleeve?" I asked seeing as how I wanted to know what she was packing. What she had was awesome and kind of scary to look at, for one it was a huge ass scythe (http://warframe.wikia.com/wiki/Hate?file=DEStalkerScythe.png) that was along as she is tall. "Dayum, never seen someone wield a scythe before" I said it was then I noticed the chain hooked to the end of the handle did I realize how dangerous it really was. "This here is Heartbreaker respect Heartbreaker at all times and there won't be any pain" Golden said sarcastically though it still was a bit unnerving to know she carried a huge scythe as a weapon. what made It more terrifying was the reach she had with it. with one swing she was able to decapitate the head on four training dummies. Then she started to swing it around above her head while holding onto the end of the chain, and I might have been cut in half if I'd been standing a half an inch closer. "Any questions?" Golden asked as she heft her scythe onto her shoulder, giving a firm head shake was my only answer. We chatted for a few more minutes, I even showed my 1911 letting Golden and Ruby see a classic piece of human innovation that so far, has withstood the test of time even though it's considered outdated by todays standards. See as how our little chat and demonstrations only left me with about a half an hour to meet Celestia I bid me goodbye and headed to were I had to meet her. Her personal bedroom (and that's not a joke for the Internet to enjoy), the thought racing through my mind where not helping me either, I mean here I am about to have tea with a literal god, and its going to be in her own personal place, the rumors that are going to spread cause of this. gathering my courage which I knocked hard on the door three times. "Just a moment" came the voice of Celestia from the otherside, before the sound of hoof steps was heard and the suddenly flying open. And there she was standing their in a simple white dress, and not a single piece of her regalia on. "Major, thank you for coming. Please come in, I got so much I want to ask" She said as she beckoned me in, well no turning back now. "Come on boy" I said to Kodiak who scampered in after to me. Inside he room was really impressive, the floor had her cutie mark etched into the floor, a massive bed was facing to the balcony. The thing looks like it could hold ten ponies people whatever you could think of. Another door opened to what looked like a walk in closet, while next to it was a massive bathroom. Hell she even had her own kitchen and a stair case going to a small study above everything else. "Please sit, I want this to be as relaxed as possible" Celestia said well shit if that's how its going to be then fine. "Alright fine, on one condition princess" I said "Name it" she said "You get to use my real name and I get to simply call you Celestia, sound fair enough?" I said, the invitation said this was casual so why not treat each other as normal beings and not as a soldier and a princess. She instantly brightened up at this as she more or less sat up straighter in her seat and had a warmer smile. "I believe,... That this is a wonderful idea, Tea? She asked as she held a teapot in her hands. "Or would you prefer something else or a little stronger?" "Coffee, Black with some sugar, if you have any" I Said as I sat on the opposite side of the small table she had set up for us. A pot of fresh coffee floated out of her kitchen surrounded by the golden aura of her magic along with a single mug and small shaker of sugar. While it was still held in her magic she poured the cup about 5/6 full and add two firm shakes of sugar too it before levitating it over to me. Reaching for it she ceased the flow of magic as she watched me take a good long gulp of the coffee. "Damn, that's some good stuff right there Celestia, you might have to get me five tons of whatever type of coffee beans your using" I said with a hearty chuckle, Celestia seeing as how I was enjoying started to giggle seeing as how I seemed to like it. "*Sigh* Thank mother, I was hoping its to your liking, as for the bean type its, White springs special" She started off "the reason I I asked for you come, is because I wish to get to know you better, perhaps become friends even" "I had a feeling you might want to do something like this, that and there something about the look on your face that says otherwise" I said "Drat, I'd had hoped I would be able to hide, the other reason was ai wanted to meet and cuddle your dog" she said to me with a slight blush and a small fit of giggles. Busted but seeing how it got me laughing I thought, you know what screw let's see where fate takes this. "Bahahahaha ho oh, well I'm glad that's all right I hope-ooof" She was cut off as Kodiak seeing as how Celestia had wanted to cuddle him had taken it upon himself to leap and I mean literally leap onto her chair. She then found her self under attack from his affections, which included licking her face, demanding belly rubs and finally siting on her lap all the while we're both laughing like lunatics. "Ooooh who's a good puppy whose a good puppy. yes you is, yes you is" She said a s she scratched his belly. "Really?" I asked since the whole display was very in-princess like but hey this is were we be our selves so there is nothing wrong with it. "Yes really, I like being able to cuddle with stuff especially since when I first met you I've wanted to cuddle your dog, and Kodiak from what I heard from your newest friend Golden Gleam, that's the name of an island in Alaska correct?" she said man She must really know Golden Gleam well. "Pretty much yeah, and seeing as how you want to try and be friends we might as well get to know each other a little bit" I said because that's what friends. For me however it would be a great way to connect with her, in the time since I'd arrived on Equus and met her, my feelings and emotions have told me o e single thing. I've fallen in love with a princess, I just hope she feels the same way about me seeing as how she hasn't really had anyone t care for her in eight centuries. "Hmm interesting, is there about yourselves you wish to share?" She asked as she got Kodiak off her lap and leaned forward in her chair. "Well where to start, I was Born an raised on the outskirts of Nashville, Tennessee back on Earth growin up was rather fun, I had a lot of friends, none more so then my best friend Alec Cretney, or as some of the boys call him, The Scotsmen." I said "Quick question why do they call him the Scotsman?" She asked "He was originally born in Edinburgh, Scotland so he has that thick accent" I replied which she nodded her head in understanding. "Growing up through out my middle school and high school years we did pretty much everything together, even getting a bunch of our friends to help out at the family mine" I said "A mine? your family are miners, that would help explain your well built physic" Celestia said in a slightly seductive voice. "Hey now don't be getting any idea's, but yeah we're miners and soldiers well on my dads side we are" I said "My Family's been working our mine the good old Rolling Thunder mine for a hundred and twenty years" "That long? I find that rather intriguing, what do your workers normally mine for, mithril, diamonds or gold?" She asked with enthusiastic curiosity, can't say I blame seeing as how we have some metals that aren't found on Equus and vice versa. "No we don't really have mithril on Earth what we do mine however is mostly iron, copper, and titanium on a side node when I was twelve I was there with Alec and my dad as we were drilling a new shaft and you won't believe what we found" I said with excitement as the memory started to come back to me. "What, what was it was it a giant chasm made of cake" She squealed as she bounced in her seat. "No but that would be awesome. instead when the chamber opened, and we brought up some spot lights, we were astounded to see veins of Silver running through out it". I said "the way the light shined on it, made it look like jewels , it was like we'd stepped into something from a fairy tale" "How incredible, please continue" She said returning to her attentiveness "Well what else, I'm the second oldest of four with my Brother Jacob being the oldest, then there's me, our sister Katlynn, and finally our youngest brother Thomas" I said "Growing up we were always trying to be the best we could, helpin others that sort of thing" "Interesting, but what inspired you to become a Marine?, was is it to follow in the footsteps f your ancestor and to continue the family tradition?" She asked me pausing only a moment to take a sip of tea. "Forgive me if I'm being to intrusive, your the first pun- I mean person whose wanted and acted like a true friend to me since I..... I had to banish Luna" a saddened look took the happy smile away as that terrible memory came to surface. I'd read what had happened and man was it just messed up having to send your sibling into a thousand year imprisonment do tot the fact she wasn't getting the love she wanted, damn that must have been tough. Seeing as how he was about to start crying I quickly got up and slowly pulling from her chair, I wrapped her in a comforting hug as she cried a little on my shoulder. after about two minutes she let out a long sigh. "Better?" I asked as I wiped away a few remaining tears. "Y-yes" she said regaining her composer, Before sitting down. "Now back to your question no, it was not to continue a family tradition. Instead it was due to terrorism" I replied to her earlier question. "Terrorism?" She said her head slightly tilted, I see what was going on here, since Equestria has had peace for so long Terrorism is practically unheard of here. "acts of aggression carried out against a group of people or nation by others for a number of reasons" I said "I'd just started my first and only semester of college when at the same time on the same day the cities of New York, Los Angeles and Philadelphia were hit with mass suicide bombers and Terrorist fighters that had managed to sneak into the country" "By my Sun... that's , that's just awful why would anypony do such a thing" She asked through some shaky tears. "A number of reason, which I don't really want to delve into" I said "But what else about me , I like being outdoors, I going fishing and hunting and well donate the meat from what ever I usually get to those who need, while keeping a bit to make some jerky" I rambled on a few minutes more going over the other various things I enjoyed, such as music, movies or current vid games and so forth. "Now that we've gotten me outta the way how about your tell me about you Tia, is it cool if I call you Tia?" I asked "Of course, as for me, I was born over one thousand twenty six years ago" she said "My Mother Queen Faust along with my Father King Craig rule until Luna and I were 37 and 34" "What happened?" I asked seeing as how there was mention of her parents in some of the history books I'd skimmed through in the castle library, but even then it was only a select few that even mentioned them. I wonder why that is. "Well mother and father ended up fighting the evil necromancer Grogar, it... *Drawn out sigh* it was costly in the end Grogar was defeated and his kingdom lost for ever in the Shadow world, but for us, our o-ur d-daddy was destroyed and mother nowhere to be found" She said though a few tears, as she brought up a terrible memory. "Damn, guess I shouldn't have asked if it was going to be this painful for you" I said apologetically, only she raised a hand to tell me to stop. "Please Connor, its alright, it happened long ago though when I think about it, it still hurts. At least now I've got my sister back and right now, I may even have a new friend" She said as her expression brightened towards the end of her sentence. "nice anything else?" I asked "Well, I like to spend time with children, trying new food items, I may or may not have a severe cake addiction" She said which got me laughing, this whole thing of her explaining what she liked how hard it was when she lost Luna and how happy she was when she returned. Turns out she's a fan of science fiction novels and movies, I might have to show her the entire Star Wars Trilogy maybe she'll like that. What else?" she said as she pondered for a mere moment "I like classical music, operas visiting the various fairs and markets that go on through the years" "nice got any pets?" I asked "Oh yes one moment please" she said before she let loose a single crystal chimed whistle, before silence before said silence was broken by a loud and some what annoying squawk, and not even five seconds later I felt something land on my head and start grinding its claws or talons, those feet things that birds have. next thing I know there's this funny looking bird (http://mlp.wikia.com/wiki/Philomena/Gallery?file=Philomena_takes_flight_S01E22.png) leaning over my head looking at me. its twitches slightly as it investigates me before pecking me lightly on the nose. that caused me to go cross eyed for a split second before trying to shoo the bird away only for it to remain on my head. Celestia seeing my struggle giggled at me trying to show my mastery over the bird. "Alright Philomena, that's enough of you pestering dear Connor, get off of his head" She says to which the bird caws and jumps from my head to the table, getting 'Philomena' helps its self to one of the Danishes that Celestia had been snacking on. "Well that happened, but what in the world kind of birds is that?" I asked as I was still trying to figure out what kind of bird it was, well because there aren't any back home on Earth. "Phoenix" Celestia said with a cute smile as she reached over and stroke Philomena's head, who in turn nuzzled into her hand. "Uh Come again, you said Phoenix right" I asked in shock and confusion. "Yes. I did Philomena has been my pet phoenix for the past seven hundred thirty years, and she has a mischief streak that's just as long." Celestia said trying to hide her laughter from what must be a very fun and colorful history. But then again she would because Phoenix's don't exist back on Earth. We talked a few hours more, telling stories, answering questions we had. Heck one of her Stories was when she and Luna apparently had a prank war when they were fillies, which culminated it half of the ancient castle they grew up in being covered in rainbow paint and filled with soap bubbles, that got me laughing so hard I literally couldn't breath. Turns out even though Luna was imprisoned in the moon, the prank war had resumed when she was cleansed of the nightmare and had forgiven Celestia. Sadly during that long time of waiting she never really had any real friends and her last coltfriend apparently tried to usurp the throne from her, man talk about tough luck However it was then time for me to leave as I was taking over the afternoon session with the new guards and would be stuck with them through out the evening. It was then I chose to make my good bye and exit stage right. "Goodbye, Celesta, I hope we can do this again some time" I said as I got up from my seat popping my back due to siting for so long, though I was interrupted as I felt her lay a hand on my shoulder and turn me around so that I was facing her. Before I could react she has me is a rather strong hug. "Thank you.... Thank you for being my first true friend in so long, you have no idea how much this means to me" she says through a few tears, as she holds me tight. I wrap my arms around her waist returning the hug. "Your welcome Celestia" I said in her ear, we stay there a few seconds more before she lets go. "Thank you.. again and please call me Tia, if you'd like" she says wiping away the last of her tears, and please when ever you've free time feel free to stop by. "I will" I say as I close her door behind me. Celestia's POV As my door closes I feel so happy, I've I've got my first real friend in forever basically. And he held me in his arms, I felt safe, even secure as he comforted me. I don't want this to ended like it did with Steal Shod, luckily for me Cadence is coming next week, so it looks like we're going to have a chat together maybe Connor might speak to her as well. I think I'll head back to court now, this is going to be marvelous. Author's Note Ruby Silk is based off of Ruby rose from the hit internet series RWBY only not as hyper and doesn't have such a strong cookie addiction:derpytongue2: https://static.fimfiction.net/images/emoticons/derpytongue2.png Also with the new semester chapters willing take longer at being published because its school. I got to be able to get the education and job I want somehow because in life nothing is free except for the air we breath. That said I will be working on the next chapter of Star Trek Equestria Rising //-------------------------------------------------------// Feelings //-------------------------------------------------------// Feelings May 6th,2043 Canterlot Castle Throne room Celestia's POV I sit alone in my private office going over the various paper work that looks as if somepony just through in on the desk. From news building contracts to, stupid nobles wanting to tear down another orphanage because the foals are "playing too loudly and its disturbing my ability to sleep" of all the thins to happen to me in the last half millennia, letting the nobles have the freedom to do as they wish, was not one of my better choices. "Ugh why can't this all just be easier" I say to no one in particular, taking a moment to rub my head. Yet I think back to that one day last week, when Connor and I shared our history, and I was able to be held in his arms, the feeling that went through me. It wasn't just to comfort me, I could feel the love resonating from him, well I might not be as big an expert of love as Cadence is, but I think he likes me. I... I want to be sure, I have feelings for Connor, I just want him to feel the same way about me. Luckily I've a secret weapon, which by what the clock says she should be right. About. Now "Auntie, where are you?" Cadence said from down the hall, even now when she's a full a grown mare and a princess in her own right, it still brings a smile to my face as I recall all the fun I had raising her. "In here Cadence, please come in" I said setting my work off to the side whilst taking a moment to stretch, hear a few pops and crack from my wings and back, even with my power constantly rejuvenating me, and the added immortal bonus, sometime I wish I didn't need to feel like I had arthritis. Going back to Cadence a silly smile graced me as I decided to relive part of her foal hood, I just had to make sure she didn't see me when she came in. I wait quietly next to the door, standing very still next side where it was hinged. "Auntie? Auntie where are you?" Cadence asked to for me to spring my trap "Ooga booga booga" I yell whilst tickling Cadences sides AAAAAAHHHHahahahaha Auntie staaahhhp" She says as she tries to get away, no pony escapes the tickle master, sadly her laughter was very contagious and I started to bust out laughing as well. "Oh Auntie, aren't I a little old to be scared and tickled?" She ask before giving me a hug. "You? Too old? why never no pony is ever too old for a good laugh." I replied with mock disgust before returning the hug "So how've you been? how's Shining Armor and the empire doing?" "We're fine, ruling an empire that's been gone a thousand years is tiring but seeing how well the crystal ponies have been adapting to the time period is wonderful" Cadence said in her usual happy chipper attitude "So how's it been with you now that your having to deal with the humans as well as the idiotic nobles?" "Well things certainly have been a lot more lively since they, 'as their scientists put it literally ripped the laws of reality a new one' I've actually done rather well considering I've made a new friend from one of them" I said that seem, to get her interest, seeing as how she raised one eyebrow. "Oh, do tell Auntie what are they like?" She asked, wow she is really wanting to get into it, I can't blame her she took after me when it cae to getting the latest gossip. "W-well he's a human, he has the cuddliest dog ever and he's also the new instructor for the guard" I said, uh oh Cadence has that look the one where she thinks we've already been doing some 'extra hours activities'. Or she probably can feel how I feel about Connor. "Well, now isn't this a surprise, while I'm happy for you Auntie, being the princess of love and all, I fam getting a feeling that you've got a crush on him" Cadence said, well ponyfeathers, she's got me. "*Sigh* Yes I do, it's also worth mentioning, this is my first crush in eight centuries, but I'd be lying if I didn't say I was nervous about it." I said, I could feel a bead of sweat running down my forehead as she gazed into my immortal soul. What to do? what to do? better answer fast. "Auntie, this is so wonderful" Cadence says clapping her hands, laughing in joy "I've had hope you'd find someone, well come on, who are they what're his or hers name" Flaring my horn I politely enveloped her muzzle in my magic, getting her to stop her excitement fuel tangent. I couldn't help but chuckle at her display, when she hadn't been married yet and was still dating Shining Armor, she'd always get this excited when ever somepony said they had feelings for another. "Cadence dear, I do appreciate your enthusiasm, perhaps it'd be best if I showed you instead" I said beckoning her to follow my standing before my office's large pane window, which had a view of the training yard as well, only for the glass to suddenly shake violently. along with a loud crackly explosion coming from below. "In the name of you auntie what in the world was that?" Cadence asked, looking out in bewilderment tryin to see through the dust cloud obscuring the view, only to see a somewhat angered Connor and a rather scared Pegasus trainee whom looked as if she was about to soil herself. "I believe that would have been my crush trying to demonstrate the proper uses of magic enhanced explosive's, though from the look on his face, I'd say its not going so well" I said seeing as how he was tearing the poor mare a new one." I said "You mean to human who seems to be verbally abusing that poor mare?" Cadence asked "Yes, I do, though if I recall correctly Connor is training them as if they were human marines and not ponies" I said getting a lustful look from Cadence. "Oh, his name is Connor tell me aunty is he the one you've got eyes on" she said, so I explained my predicament and how if I were to pursue courting or dating as it's called nowadays, I wanted him to feel the same way as me. I went on to how our the time we spent last week getting to know each other, and how it made me feel. Cadence stood there deep in thought, I hoped she had a good plan on finding if Connor really had feelings for me. She stayed this way for about two more minutes before letting out a loud gasp. "I got Auntie how would you feel if, now here me out I went and asked how he was doing but, some where in that conversation I ask how he feels about you?" She said, at this point she was practically bouncing on her hooves, do to how giddy she was. Yet I honestly thought it was a rather well thought of idea, perhaps the way he felt, after I entered his mind, shows that he really does love me. Taking a deep breath I look Cadence squarely in the eyes. "Please do, I so want this, to be loved by another, to have a special somepony after to so. To be able to finally share my nights with somepony who cares" I say to her pleadingly, tears slowly making their way down my cheeks. She takes my shaking hands in hers, looking back at me she has a small confident smile. "Don't worry Auntie, this bubble gum colored princess, know exactly what to do" She said "I'll be back around 1:00 until then wish me luck" And just like that Cadence left giving me one last hug, before slipping through the door off to the training yards. Four hours later Celestia's study The last four hours were rather taxing, seeing as how one of the maids nearly had an emotional breakdown, appearently sehe was verbally beaten by Blueblood. Apparently according to him she'd accident spilled some tile cleaner on his suit ad he proceeded to thus say how much of a failure that she was, and said that he would make sure she never worked in the castle again. Well I calmly told her, when she came bursting through my door in tears that I would not allow any of what Blueblood threatened to happen. I still don't understand, how and hen Blueblood became so hate full of the working class, then again, he was constantly spoiled by his parents seeing as they tried to raise him right. A sudden knock at the door prompted me to close out Equestribook, as Cadence had returned. Oh I hope she was successful. "Auntie, I've somethings that you must hear" She said taking a seat across the desk. "I'm afraid I come bringing bad news" No I thought please don't do this to me Connor, I could feel tears forming in my eyes, what do I do? How do I show him I love him?. "What, please tell me Cadence I must know" I said as tears started to stream across my checks. "Auntie, he has feeling for you, Connor just hopes you feel the same about him" Cadence said, wait did my ears hear right he likes me "H-he likes me, he actually d-does" I squeak through my tears, he likes me but does he want to be with me, now that's an even greater question that I must know "He does, apparently from the first moment he laid eyes on you he's been secretly crushing on you" Cadence said "Now I believe its up to you to make the big leap of telling him you love him, since it's rather obvious now." Clever girl you are Cadence, though she is right, if I want him to know I should tell him myself. How though? "Any suggestion, on how and where to tell him? I asked having not courted anypony for so many centuries, I was some what rusty on how to tell another that I loved them. Luckily Cadence is the go to pony when it comes to romance, and if I knew her she'd already have a plan layed out in front of me. "Why not have hi meet you somewhere, after he's no longer on duty and just straight out tell him, He'll more than likely come if he can get a chance to see you" She said. You know she's right its simple let it sows how we both feel, quickly pulling my schedule planner, it would seem I've time on Friday, where I have nothing planned perhaps, this will be amazing. Tanking Cadence she left saying something about needing to visit Twilight, oh the fun memories of those two playing together in the park always bring a smile to my muzzle. Now where did I put theat nice casual dress I used to where I want Connor to see me at my best, laid back attitude. Dearest Connor I shall call for you, when you have free time as well Author's Note welp, here we are, getting closer to the revelation of feelings. up Next the Guard recruits final test. A war games scenario of them VS battled hardened U.S Marines who wants popcorn //-------------------------------------------------------// Prologue: The begining //-------------------------------------------------------// Prologue: The begining For so long there has been those among Humanity that thought we were alone in the universe, The thought of finding intelligent life beyond our solar system seemed like a goal that was just too impossible as something that would never happened. and yet we did find other intelligent life , not from another planet, but from a new dimension, Back in 2038, a group of scientist at one of the government's secret military research facilities discovered what they called a dimensional echo, obviously caused be a release of unknown energy. So what does the government do? Why they release this information to the public, this started a tidal wave of research into finding ways to gain access to this new dimension and the world it may have. then on June 26 2042, the first official test of the dubbed 'Quantum Singularity Portal' commenced and, it was a success, the survey team that went through actually made contact with intelligent, and well their appearance shocked everyone including me, they were human like standing on two legs same body shape and body functions but that's where it ends. the difference was they were anthromorphic ponies for god's sake, they had hooves instead of feet and their heads well they had muzzles like ponies or horse, then came the weird part, for one they either had a horn on their head or wings on their back on neither, though the unicorns could use magic and the fact that pegasi existed baffled even the most experienced historians and scientists, and then there were the rulers of the nation. so apparently when the survey team made contact with them the youngest princess who goes by the name Twilight Sparkle was well as I like to say having a neural orgasm from the fact that a different world made contact with them, and even got the first diplomatic meeting started with the other three princesses and after that both worlds were never the same. March 26, 2043 nearly one year since the opening of the portal and first contact coming through the portal, I was greeted to the sight of Fort Orion, the first and so far only human base/settlement that's been constructed on Equus, more specifically Equestria which from what I had read was a lot like the U.S back home, the only difference was the slight alteration of the names of the cities and two princesses that can control the freaking sun and moon, from the dossier I had read Celestia was responsible for raising the sun and ruled during the day, while her younger sister Luna raised the moon and was princess of the night, though her life story had a bit of a sad part, and by sad part I mean she literally tried to make in endless night a thousands years ago, well news flash even her sister knew that if it was eternal night Equus would have become a frozen lifeless ball of ice. but I had to stay focused, since this was my first time here all new arrivals had to report in to see what their orders were and how they would help out the locals if you were like me and in the military while civilians had to check in with base security and the Equestrian embassy before they could be allowed to freely roam around their country. Grabbing my duffle bag, I hefted it over my shoulder whilst still carrying my M8A1 (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d1/Xm8_sideview.jpg) assault rifle in my arms, and quickly checking my exosuit (http://www.gamespot.com/images/1300-2541095) to make sure it was still working after going through the portal and making sure I still had my trusty M1911 with me, I started making my way over to the bases central command only to be stopped midway by a familiar voice ringing in my ears, "O'Bannon, Connor O'Bannon man what are ya doin here lad I thought ye wasn't comin through fer another week" A thick Scottish voice said to me before I got semi tackled semi bear hugged but the offending party/ friend, though it brought a smile to my face as I faced the him "Alec Cretney, man you're a sight for sore eyes" I said as I gave him a bro hug and a smack on the shoulder, me and Alec go back to elementary school, He had moved to my home of Nashville, Tennessee, at the start of my second grade year from Edinburgh, Scotland after his dad had been transferred by his work to the U.S and we struck up a friendship pretty fast. throughout our youth and teenage years we had always stuck together, after his family had become citizens when he was nine, going through middle and school was fun we both made more life long friends who stuck by us no matter what, when we were both Eighteen and had graduated from high school we quickly joined the Marine Corp after the terrorist attacks that struck Los Angeles, New York and Philadelphia and here we are ten years later still best friends still staying strong and still kicking ass but not taking any names. "Alrighty then come on then let's get ourselves a drink an celebrate, what da ye say" Alec said before his attention was distracted by the sounds of a playful bark and he was tackled by a blur of black and grey (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siberian_Husky#/media/File:Siberian-husky.jpg). "Hahahaha well ello there Kodiak looks like ye ain't to far from Connor then ain't ye" Alec said as he was assaulted by my pet Siberian Husky Kodiak, who started jumping around Alec letting playful barks before getting done his front legs with his butt in the air and tail wagging back and forth. "Alright down boy, come on Alec I have to check in then first, and then... we'll have that drink before I get my orders sound good" I said "Aye that be fair, but I be the one buyin ye hear" Alec replied as he put on a serious face, only to bust out laughing at his remark. "Ah just like when we's was kids " "Alec don't you ever change, both worlds won't be able to survive it" I said as I put my arm around his shoulder as we headed to the headquarters building. One and a half hours later After checking in and three or four beers later I said my farewell to Alec and head for General Prushing's office seeing as how when I was told I would be coming here he would be giving me my assignment personally, which meant either one of two things. one I'd probably be going some where the brass thought was dangerous and needed me or two I would be somewhere awesome. I could only hope as I reach his office and knocked twice on the door "Come in" Opening the door and telling Kodiak to stay outside before quickly entering and turning to face General Prushing, I gave him a stiff marine salute which he return. "Have a seat Major" Prushing said as he rearranged some papers on his desk "Thank you sir" I said as I sat down "Now lets see, Major Connor O'Bannon age 28 Born in Nashville, Tennessee, second oldest of four children six foot six, what else six tours of duty, not bad" Prushing started of as he read my files out loud not that I really cared. "hmmm now this is interesting, awarded a distinguished service cross three bronze stars two silver stars, and award the Medal of Honor for covering the withdrawal of 300 fellow marines 10 miles outside of Islamabad, Pakistan on June 19 2032 and then again for single handed running back and forth to save the lives of fifteen injured through intense enemy fire on December 8 2037" He said before stopping and looking at me "not bad for someone who's only been in the Corp for a decade, now you probably want to know why you're getting your orders from me and not the bases logistics officer" He asked "I have been since I left Knoxville sir" I replied "Well let me make it simple, the Equestrian royal guard army is severely under trained than what it should be and what the higher ups believe to be acceptable, since the President offered to fix that problem by having some of our best and most experienced men and women train new recruits" he continued before I choose to interrupt him "Sir what does any of this got to do with me" I asked still unsure of where this was going "Let me put it this way, back home you a war hero here that kind of person is considered by the ponies to be the most experienced and considered a demi god amongst some of them and so after you were chosen for this, I received a request to send you to Equestria's capital" He stated flatly "Sir you mean?" I asked "That's right major, grab your gear and dog you're headed to Canterlot, there's a train leaving from the small town of White Springs in two hours head there and report in once you make it to Canterlot castle am I understood" He asked "Sir yes sir" said "Very well dismissed" He said before we both saluted and he hand me a thick envelope no doubt containing my orders and travel permits. Leaving his office before heading to the motor pool where thankfully then was a Humvee waiting to take me to white springs. The hour and a half ride wasn't so bad it gave me a good chance to see the beauty that was this new alien world, seeing the trees and rolling plains that ran between the Whitetail woods and the Everfree remind of the me of home that it actually made me a little homesick, after I was dropped off and getting my ticket I had little time to explore the town before the train was scheduled to leave. at first the ponies were a little skittish of me seeing as how I was freaking armed but they calmed down seeing as how I was exploring and not causing anything unlawful geeze if I did that on my first day I'd be in a cell faster than you could say good morning sunshine. As I wander around the shops close to the station, I couldn't but smile as to how similar a feeling of enjoyment I was getting as the moment reminded me of a trip to Williamsburg, VA I took once only for it to come crashing done by the announcement of the Stations loudspeaker alerting me that my train was now boarding, forgetting what I was doing, and quickly double timing it back, I managed to get aboard just as the train was starting to pull away from the platform. Now all I had was a six hour trip which put me at an arrival time of about 9 pm. Throwing my duffle bag on the luggage rack as keeping my rifle close by and Kodiak curled next to my feet i chose to get a little shut eye before I reached Canterlot, letting sleep take me as the train sped through the countryside Author's Note here it goes my first romance and clop story oh how I hope I can win the favor of the writing gods.:unsuresweetie: https://static.fimfiction.net/images/emoticons/unsuresweetie.png also the ponies use anthro form three for those who were wondering. next time meeting Luna and that start of our love/romantic tragedy no it won't end with sadness that's part of the surprise. Also if any one can help me edit and proof read that would be great. //-------------------------------------------------------// What I'm doing //-------------------------------------------------------// What I'm doing Hello everyone it's me again I would just like to thank everyone who stayed with this is I worked on it and enjoyed reading it I'm sorry say that I have lost my inspiration for this story in its current version I will not be continuing it I am however planning on doing a complete rewrite as a new story where it will be 100% better so just stay tuned and look out for it and I will see you then