Chapters Introduction
Germany 1960. It was a nice summer Day in Volkach. For most people it was just another normal Day in their lives but for one Man it was the Day that would change his live forever. This is his Story.
My Name is Jessie “James” Günther WW1 and WW2 Veteran. I’m German-American. I was born 1895 in Dallas Texas. My father American was a Soldier, my mother German was a nurse. My Family kept the German Name but my father wanted an American Name for my when I was born. I had a little brother called John born two years after me. Despite born in the USA I was more interested in Germany then in the USA. Because of that when I was 18 I decided to immigrate to Germany.
My Parents and my younger brother respected what I did but we stayed in contact with letters. I spoke fluent German as English. I always spoke German with my mother so it was no problem to speak with other German people. Because of my mother I had no accent at all. When the First World War started I was a Medic but I was an excellent Marksman when I had to defend myself. So my superior asked me if I should not become a Sniper. I always showed Mercy when asked and did never leave a comrade behind. I was much respected for this. For me was Friendship and Comradeship the same.
In 1916 when I was 21 I had an accident that changed my life. A Friend of mine and me were close to a canister used as storage for Poison gas. Unfortunately through a malfunction the gas was released. My Friend died I survived. For some reason the gas changed my DNS. I couldn’t age anymore. And I could take more punishment then a normal Human could ever take. When I was recovering in the sick bay, I met a beautiful Nurse named Lena. We fell in love with each other. We decided to get married after the War has ended.
Before I had to go back to the Western front, I wrote a Letter to my Parents about my future wife. They wrote back that they were happy to hear that, but were also sad because my brother John who was in the US-Army was reported missing. He was never found. After the War has ended we married.
The postwar years were difficult when the inflation came in 1923 and the economic crisis in 1929 but we managed to get over it. 1933 when the third Reich was created, I was again a Soldier but this I was in the Luftwaffe. I was a Stuka pilot. I never believed in Hitler’s messages, I was loyal to my Country not to the Regime. When the Second World War started, I was deployed on the western Front but in 1941 when the Africa corps was created I served in Africa. The heat was not a problem for me because I was used to it from Texas. Shortly before the Africa corps was defeated in 1943, I had another accident.
A Fuel canister exploded when the planes were about to be refueled. I was seriously injured so I was sent home. Back home I heard that the Africa corps was defeated, which was sad for me but my wife had happy news. She was pregnant! I was never so happy in my life before. Our Son was born in September 1943, called John, as a memory for my lost brother. After that I served on the western front. I always tried to spare civilians especially children.
1945 was the worst year I ever had in my life. My Family lived in Volkach but visited friends in Würzburg shorty before it was bombed. Lena and John both died when Würzburg was bombed. After that I was losing more and more friends, either dead or captured. I was in berlin when the battle began. I had lost all hope. My Family was dead, my friends were also dead or captured mostly in Russian captivity. A Woman whose Husband was fallen long ago begged me to bring her two sons to safety which I didn’t refuse. I fled with the Sons to the USA. When we arrived I was arrested the two boys were taken to an orphanage. I was released shortly after this. I stayed in the USA until 1950 when things were going better in Germany.
When the economic miracle came, I decided to go back to Germany but not before I read up on the two boys. A young pair similar to me and my deceased wife adopted them. The young pair promised me when the boys are ready they will tell them the truth. I knew immediately that they were in good care. Back in Germany I served in the Bundeswehr but I never had the same comradeship as in the Imperial German Army und the Wehrmacht.
Now we have 1960. I still live in Volkach. I never came over the Death of my Family. Sometimes I take a walk to feel better. This walk however changed my life again. But it changed positive. This was the day when I met Twilight Sparkle.
Author's Note
Thats the Introduction and backstory of my OC in this story. I know it's very sounds strange but i have a lot of imagination.
Chapter 1: a lost Filly
It was a nice Summer Day. It was late evening. I decided to wear a blue suit with red tie and a blue Hat. Of course I got some awards in the war. It was the Iron Cross and the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. Despite my past I wear them proudly. On my Way home it began to rain.
I liked when it was raining. I don’t know why even as a child I liked Rain. I walked past an alley when I heard crying and sobbing from it. I turned in the alley and called, “Hello, is there someone?”
I didn’t get a response but crying and sobbing so I investigate it. I could saw something but I could not see what it was. When I got closer I was shocked. I saw a little Foal with a star as a tattoo, violet eyes purple coat, and an indigo purple pink Mane. She was holding a plush Donkey. What was getting me shocked was that is has a horn. A Unicorn? I could not believe my Eyes. The Fact that the Foal was crying and her eyes swollen from this proved that is was real. When the Foal saw me it panicked immediately.
“ple-ple, please don’t hurt me.” It cries surprisingly in German.
It broke my Heart to saw it scared like that so I decided to do the right thing.
I kneeled down to her and spoke to her, "I won’t hurt you, it’s raining and you are freezing, come with me sweetheart, you can sleep at my house."
Before she could say anything, there was a loud Thunder causing the Filly to cry harder. She was lost and scared of the thunderstorm. I’m sometimes scared of thunderstorms too because they reminded me of the explosions back in the War. “Shh, its okay, I’m here for you.” I tried to comfort her.
When we arrived at my house, I heard a, “Thank you” from her.
When I was drying her it occurred to me that I had not introduced myself yet. “I almost forgot, my Name is Jessie Günther, but most people call me with my nickname James."
I couldn’t help but smile. “That a cute Name for a Plush, Twilight," I answered. “By the way, are you Hungry?” A growl from her stomach was the answer. “I take this as a yes. How about a warm tomato soup and hot chocolate?”
”Thank you very much, Jessie, I needed that.”
My heart broke one more time after I heard this. She was in a foreign World without Family. “Do you want to tell me more about your World?” I got a “Squee” as answer.
“I’m not finished yet; the ruler of Equestria is Princess Celestia, an Alicorn which controls the Sun. She also owns the school for gifted Unicorns, were I was in before I landed here.” I was speechless, after I heard that the Princess controls the Sun. How is that possible? Twilight noticed my behavior.
“Jessie, is something wrong?” She asked.
“Well, Jessie, I love to read, back in Equestria, I read a book about humans. It is fascinating what kind of technology they had deployed over the years but it shocked me also that they also had so many wars. In Equestria we had only one war but it was 1000 of years ago." She said with a sad tone.
“Well Twilight, it is true about the wars but we have one thing in common.”
“By the way, are you a veteran?” She asked and pointed to a number of pictures in the living room and then to the two crosses I was wearing.
“In the War when I was wounded, I met my future wife,” The third picture showed our wedding, “We married after the war was over in 1918. Germany lost the War but is not really true.”
“Yes, that’s right the contract of Versailles. The post war Years were difficult because of the economic problems in 1923 and 1929 but my wife and I managed to get over it. 1939 the Second World War started,” I didn’t want to go too deep in the dark history of the Second World War, so I explained only what she wanted to hear, “This time, I was a pilot. A Stuka pilot to be exact,” The fourth picture showed me in my pilot uniform, “In the Time between 1939 and 1941, I earned the Iron cross again. I was wounded again in 1943 and was sent home. My Wife had wonderful News: She was Pregnant!” Twilight had a big smile on her face when she heard this. “Our Son was born in September 1943.”
The fifth Picture showed my wife, our newborn Son in Lena’s arms and me, this time in a Heer Uniform instead of a Luftwaffe uniform. The sixth and last picture was again a group photo that was taken on the western front.
“Because of this, I was in the Heer again where I earned the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. Only the best and braves Soldiers could earn this award. It was also one of the highest awards you could get, back in the third Reich. The last War year, 1945 was the worst year I had ever in my entire Life.” I said with a sad tone.
"I’m so sorry Jessie, please, please, don’t hate me," Twilight begged with a guilty tone in her Voice close to crying. How could she think that I would hate her for asking what happen to my Family? “Twilight,” I said while petting her Mane, “Why should I hate you, you couldn’t knew that.”
"Jessie? Can I ask you something?” asked Twilight but with a calmed Voice.
And a Stuka is a plane that is made for diving but back in the war Germany had a plane called Ju 87 that was designed to dive-bombing the Enemy. Because of the high G-Force the pilot could pass out so a dive automatic was created to make it easier for the pilot to recover after diving. And it had a Siren that amplified the Howl when diving. This created a scary and demoralizing sound to the enemy. When we were diving, it looked like this,” I simulated a diving attack and follow recover with my right hand, “And my Name? Well Twilight, I was born in the USA.
My Mother was German and a Nurse. My Father was a Soldier and American. He named me after the famous Cowboy Jesse James. He was famous for drawing his revolver faster than everybody else. I was also famous for drawing my sidearm very fast when I had to. That’s also how I get my nickname. I had also a little Brother called John but he was reported missing in World War 1. He was never found.” Twilight had a fascinated look on her Face but it changed to a sad expression when I mentioned my brother.
“Twilight you don’t have to be…”
“Twilight, you could not survive on your own. Plus after 15 Years of living alone, I would be glad about having some company.” She hugged me after I said this.
“Then it can be only your left hand!” She spoke with a triumphant tone.
She nodded with a “Squee”. “Well, my brother is a Unicorn with white coat, blue eyes like you, and a blue mane which is a mix between dark and light. He has a Shield as a Cutie Mark. He has got it when he protected me against some bullies,” She explained, “He wants also to be a royal guard. They are not only Soldiers like you but are also Princess Celestia’s bodyguards,” She added.
After she showed me her greeting routine my Heart melted. It was the cutest thing I had ever seen in my entire Life. “Do you like it?” She asked.
For the rest of the evening we had a happy conversation. I told her how I was able to speak fluent German and English with no accent at all because of my mother and how Germany was divided after the War and how west and east Germany were created, which confused her why the Winners of the Second World war could not get well together. I did know the Reason, but I just said to her that politic is sometimes complicated. She told me about the entrance examination she had to pass to get into the school and about Spike her baby dragon she hatched and raised.
She also told me that in Equestria, the ponies said everypony or somepony instead of everybody or somebody. I was never so happy in life before since the birth of my Son! I was about to think what we could do tomorrow, when the pendulum clock was ringing and interrupting my thoughts.
Ding dong Ding dong Ding dong Ding dong Ding dong Ding dong Ding dong Ding dong Ding dong.
Already nine-o’clock? Times go fast. Twilight let out a large Yawn. She looked very tired. “Looks like somepony is tired, you should catch some sleep. It was an exhausting Day for you Twily. You can sleep in the bed in the Guest room. I let the Door to my bedroom open if you should need me.”
”Alright James, but before you go, can your sing me a lullaby? My mother always singed a lullaby for me.” She asked.
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star How I wonder what you are Up above the World so High Like a Diamond in the Sky When the blazing Sun is gone When there nothing shines upon Then you show your little light Twinkle twinkle all the night Then the traveler in the dark Thanks you for your little spark He could not see which way to go If you did not twinkle so When the blazing Sun is gone When there nothing shines upon Though I know not what you are Twinkle twinkle little star
After I was finished singing, she was fallen asleep peacefully. I kissed her on the forehead. ”Goodnight my little Twily sweet Dreams.” I said quiet to her before I went into my own bed. Twinkle twinkle little star fits her so much. Her Cutie Mark reminds me of this Lullaby. But for now I should rest. We have a big Day tomorrow. I thought before I fell asleep.
Author's Note
That's the first chapter, i hope you liked it. I found the Lullaby through Dead Space. I liked this vision more than the Orginal.
Chapter 2: Fears and Fun
In the middle of the night, I woke up. I looked on the watch, it was almost midnight. Before I was fallen asleep, I heard crying. Before I could get up, I heard hoof steps and Twily was standing in the Doorway crying and holding Smarty Pants close to her.
“What’s the matter, little one?” I asked the filly.
“Twilight, I promise with my Honor as Soldier, I protect you with my Life.”
“Twily, you must have Hope, I’m, sure your Family will not give up until she has found you.”
Once she had a comfortable position right beside me, Smarty Pants in her arms, I said to her, “Goodnight.” After that, she was fallen asleep. I should make a Dreamcatcher for her. But that has time until tomorrow. I thought before I fell asleep.
I woke up in the morning at 9-o clock. Twilight was still sleeping. I climbed carefully out of my bed not to wake her. I walked into the kitchen for breakfast. I made a toast and a coffee. When I was finished with Breakfast, I write on a note, “I’m in the Basement if you need me Twilight.” before I was going into the basement where the workshop was to make the Dreamcatcher.
Since she was so fascinated about the Stuka, I wanted to make the Dreamcatcher look like a Stuka. When I was finished with work, I grabbed the Dreamcatcher and walked upstairs, to mount the Dreamcatcher above the bed in the Guest room. I was greeted by Twilight who just had woken up. She let out a yawn. “Good morning James, I read your Note, did you sleep well?” She asked with a still tired voice.
“I like it very much James.”
“How about a glass of Juice and muesli?” I asked her. Muesli because I know that ponies eat oatmeal. And why Juice? Children like Juice and a Unicorn filly should be no exception. “With pleasure,” She answered happy.
“Ok.” I prepared the Muesli and the Juice and putted both on the table when they were finished. Again, I helped Twilight Sparkle on the Chair. And Of Course Smarty Pants should not miss.
While she was having breakfast, I read the newspaper. “DDR prohibits citizens of the Federal Republic of Germany entry." Really? How far the DDR wants to be away from West Germany?
“James”? Twilight brought me out of my thoughts.
Not wanting to destroy her Happiness and trust I just said to her, “Yes Twilight, I eat meat but not Pony meat I can reassure you.”
“It’s okay James, I was just curious.”
“Did you enjoy your Breakfast?” I asked in return. "Of Course,” Was her answer.
“Well it seems it going to be a wonderful day. I should give you a tour through the city.”
“James, you are a genius!” She said while hugging me. “Ok, what are we waiting for? Let’s go," I spoke while putting my Suit and hat on. Twily was also ready, Smarty Pants was on her back. I had a VW Käfer as my car but on so a beautiful Day, a walk was the better Idea. Besides, I lived 15 minutes away from Downtown so it wasn’t far. We were walking through the park. When we reached the City Center, I showed her the church the Town hall and the Sights Volkach had to offer.
When people walked past us, Twilight tried to hide behind my Back, out of fear the trick wouldn’t work. But everybody that saw her just smiled and commented how cute her “costume” was and how good it looked. That made her blush. Just as I finished the Tour, I noticed that I haven’t showed her the library. “You have a library?” she asked curious.
“Yes, we have a library.” I answered her question.
“Uhh… Sir, you know animals are not allowed inside?”
“No problem,” I said to the librarian. Twilight was already lost in the books. I sat down beside her and decided to read about history and technology.
Hours passed so fast like a blink with an eye. I looked on my pocket watch, only to see that it was 4PM. I looked over to Twilight. She just finished the last book. “Ok, that’s enough,” She said exhausted.
“You’re right Daddy, time to get home. I’m tired,” She responded.
When we were on or way home, we walked through the park again. I saw some children playing. “Hey, isn’t that the girl you talked about?” One Child asked the other.
“Yes, that’s her,” The other answered. They walked towards us.
I sat down on a bench, watching as Twilight was playing tag and other games like drawing on the ground. Of course, she didn’t use her Horn. Apart from her brother, she had only few friends, but with some friends here, she can learn more about humanity.
Again time passed fast. The church bells ringed. 5 PM. The Parents of the other Children sat down next to me. “I must say, the costume of your daughter looks very good and she is very politely and well raised,” One Father of the Kids said to me.
“Thank you, I made the costume, she likes it very much,” I replied friendly.
“Yes I’m,” I replied to him.
Just when Twilight wanted to walk to me, she slipped the hill down. I jumped off the bench and ran to her. She was crying and holding her knee. Her fur was also dirty. "It hurt’s!” She cried.
She tried to stand up and walk but she could only limp. So, I sat her on the bench and told her that I will be right back. A few seconds later, I came back with two ice cream cones in my hand. I handed one over to Twilight. She wiped her tears out and smiled. “Thanks James, I love Chocolate”. She licked it with pleasure.
After we were both finished, I gave her a shoulder ride on the way home. Twilight just smiled with joy. “Faster!” she said to me.
“James, that was fun," Twilight said to me after she climbed down from my shoulder.
I gently picked her up and sat her down into the tub. She still smiled at me “Is the water warm enough?”
She kept her eyes clenched shut, “Yes, Sir.” I putted some shampoo on her head and massaged it in. I felt her Mane, it was so soft.
“Yes, James.”
“Can I ask you something, James?”
“Well Twilight, it’s difficult to explain but I try my best. I was born 1895. In 1916 when I was 21, I had an accident with Poison gas. I survived but for some reason, I couldn’t age anymore. I suspected that the Gas had changed my DNS. I was also able to take more punishment than a normal human could ever take. If I’m hurt, the wound heals as fast as it would regenerate.
After I explained how I’m still looked young, Twilight was speechless with her mouth wide open. “That-That is amazing!” It didn’t surprise me that she was amazed by my Story.
“By the way, how are you able to understand me and your friends?”
“The language in Equestria is like English in yours but many ponies are also able to understand German and French. The Magic in Equestria is like a translator for several languages.”
Interesting. “Well, enough talking, time for Dinner. How about some Sandwiches?”
Twilight’s stomach growled. “That’s a good Idea, James.” She smiled at me.
“James, do you mind if I digest before I go to bed?”
“Ok, I’m in the living room drawing,” was her respond.
After 15 minutes of cleaning, I was finished. It was 8-o clock PM. I walked into the Living room to look what Twilight has drawn. What I saw melted my Heart and broke it at the same Time.
She was fallen asleep on the floor with Smarty Pants in her arms. But on the paper she had drawn was her Family with the Words “I miss you” above them.
There was herself, Smarty Pants in her hoof beside her, her brother, and then her Foal sitter. Between Twilight and Shining Armor were their Parents. Her Mother looked like Twilight except she had blue arctic eyes three purple stars, a grey coat and a purple grey Mane. Her father had a dark phthalo blue Mane, amber eyes and a greyish azure coat which looked bluer to me. His Cutie Mark showed two crescents. Princess Celestia was also on the picture Twilight has drawn. She had a white body, a Sun as Cutie Mark, magenta Eyes, and a Mane with the colors cerulean, turquoise, cobalt blue and heliotrope. Of course she was wearing a crown and golden shoes to show her position as a princess. She was also taller than everypony else.
I almost overlooked Spike, Twilights baby dragon. He had green eyes, green ears and spikes, and his scales was purple with a spring budish gray underbelly. I allowed letting a Tear escape and falling down into the ground. Twilight was missing her family so much. I hung the picture on the fridge.
I promise you, I take care of your daughter until you come to get her. I gently putted Twilight and Smarty Pants in the bed in the guest room. “Goodnight, Twilight,” I whispered in her ear before heading into my own.
Then she could have some Fun with them on the fairground. That is a good idea. I thought to myself before I fell asleep.
Author's Note
Another Chapter in the book
The news James read in the newspaper happened really back then. As for Twilight's new friends, as we know from Amending Fences, she had some friends in Canterlot and I thought as she is so studious she could learn more about huminaty with some friends here.
Chapter 3: Old Friends
I had a wonderful Dream. My Wife and I were sitting in the garden. John and Twilight played together. “I love you, James”
“James, I’m very proud of you. If you hadn’t found Twilight when you were heading home from work, she would be dead.”
Jesus! It sounded like the Artillery when the Reds bombed Berlin. I looked outside, it rained. There was also a Thunderstorm.
I heard Twily scream, ”Mommy, Mommy!” She cried. She cried or called for her parents, even her brother and foal sitter.
“I-I’m scared of the Thunderstorm. I’m sorry if I wake you,” She told me between sobs.
“Twilight, you didn’t wake me. It was the Thunderstorm. It’s ok to be scared. Sometimes, they scare me, because they remind me of the bombs and explosion of the War.”
“It works James, I’m calmer now," Twilight said with a calmer voice. “Well Twily, I learned that in the Imperial German Army. As a Sniper, it helped me also to have a steady aim. It is important to have a steady heartbeat to aim steady.” Just after these words leaved my mouth, a loud Thunder came. Twilight covered her ears. An Idea came into my mind. I grabbed Smarty Pants and gave her a voice. “Scared Twilight? Njet, I do not tolerate this! Must cheer you up.” I booped her nose with Smarty Pants.
Twilight laughed, “James, you know really how to make me happy.”
“Ok James, but what does ‘Njet’ mean?” she asked me.
“It’s Russian for no.”
I woke up at 9 AM In the morning. I noticed that Twily was not in the bed anymore. Before I could look where she was, I heard hoof steps. Twilight came into the room with a tray surrounded by her Magic aura. “Good morning James, I did make you breakfast.” She putted the tray on the table. On it were a glass of Juice and a bowl of oatmeal.
“James, you are a Genius!” She said with Joy in her voice.
Twilights ears dropped, “Well thanks, but it’s just despite what you said to me, I miss my Family very much and I can’t get the thought out of my head they will never find me,” She sobbed close to tears. I hugged her without thinking.
“Twilight, I can understand your fear but don’t worry, I can feel that they will not stop looking for you, until they have found you.”
“But James, I don’t want to be alone.”
I pointed to the TV in the Living room. I sat her and Smarty Pants on the couch and turned the TV on. Spooky spooky skeletons from Walt Disney were on. Twilight giggled. She seems to deployed an immediately Like for it. “Well, since you are entertained, I can go”. “That is really funny James. I hope it does not taking too long what you must do.” “Won’t take long Twily. I will be back in a couple of minutes. Bye.” I said to her before I was going out and getting in in my VW Käfer.
I started the engine and drove to the gas station. When I arrived and refueled my car I heard someone say, “Look who we have here.”
I turned around. I saw a man with brown hear and green eyes. He was wearing a Feldjäger uniform. Next to him was a man with blond hears and brown eyes. He was wearing a Police uniform. I noticed they were the fathers of the two kids, which I and Twily met in the park yesterday. But they were also old friends when I was in the Bundeswehr.
“Jonas, Hans. Long time not see, how’s going?” I asked both.
“Could be. Paul cannot wait to see your daughter again to play with her,” Hans said.
“Well, I wanted to take her to the Weinfest today; do you want to come too?”
"I don’t think that Lukas and Paul will refuse, when we tell them what you have in mind. 6 o clock, your house? We both are of duty anyway,” Hans asked me.
“Sounds good,” I replied.
When I arrived at home, I was greeted by Twilight, “Welcome home, James.” She hugged me.
“Schoka kola. The same chocolate we used in the war. Was very popular. I thought you want to try it.”
“Long story but I tell you it.” The rest of the Day, we talked similar when I found her. I told her that I met my friends, when I volunteered for duty when the Bundeswehr was founded. Our friendship however did not last long, as they were transferred. She told me how she liked the cartons, especially Mickey Mouse. She told me that she liked the cartoons when Mickey was a cab driver or when he tried to save Pluto from the mad Doctor, only to find out that it was a Dream. Time was passing fast.
When it was 6 o clock the Doorbell rang. Punctually on the minute. I said to Twilight to stay out of sight until I gave all-clear.
I opened the Door. Outside were standing Hans in his Police uniform, next to him his son Paul, followed by Jonas in his Feldjäger uniform with Lukas. Paul had the hair and eye color of Jonas, Lukas, the colors of Hans “Nice to see you. Are you ready?” I asked.
“Of course, we cannot wait to play with your daughter!” Paul exclaimed. Before I could say anything, Twilight ran to the two boys.
While we walked to into the Town, we talked about what happed between the years. Hans and Jonas told me, that their wife’s will join us later, because they have still something to do. Hans asked me what is with my wife. I lied that she died when she was giving birth. ”Our condolences,” Jonas said.
“It’s ok,” I replied. Twilight had Smarty Pants with her. She, Paul and Lukas talked about what they could do on the fairground. I smiled and so did my comrades at the sight. Shortly, the wife’s of Hans and Jonas were joining. Hans’s wife called Julia was wearing a Brown Jacket with Jeans. She had brown hair and green eyes. Jonas wife called Sarah was wearing a Blue Jacket with Jeans which looked similar to my blue Suit. She had black hair and blue eyes.
On the fairground, the kids enjoyed riding on the carousel. Despite her young age, Twilight seems to understand that the horses on the carousel were not real. Probably out of her book. Just like the first Day when I showed her the city, everybody just smiled when they saw her.
My friends and I were on the shooting range to win some prices. Of course, no one could beat me. After all these years, I was still an excellent marksman. I had won a giant Teddy bear but I decided to give it Paul because he always wanted one. After the ride, we all enjoyed some cotton candy.
“That was very generously from you James. But how are you still so a good Marksmen after all those years? The War is over since 15 Years,” Hans asked.
We were walking through the park. Twilight, Paul and Lukas were walking ahead. Hans asked me, “How do you manage it to look the costume so real?” Dammit. I wasn’t prepared for that Question.
Before I could give an answer, we heard Twilight scream, “James!”
I sprinted to her. I saw three boys aged 12 to 15. One of them shoved Twilight. The second took Smarty Pants and throw it to the third. Paul and Lukas tried to catch it but they couldn’t, as Smarty Pants flow between the second and the third boy back and forth. Twilight was pinned down by the first Boy. “So the little freak and his useless friends cry for help like the little babies you are,” He said taunting. Twilight couldn’t say anything, because anytime she tried, the Boy pushed her into the mud. The Situation was similar to the nightmare she was having when I found her. But I was not alone.
“Hey you, how about picking someone your own size?!” I screamed in anger. Hans and Jonas backed me up. All Three boys turned in my direction. The two boys let Smarty Pants fall to the ground out of fear. The first however who was apparently the Leader of the group was letting go from Twilight but remained calm. Paul and Lukas used this to their advantage. Paul helped Twilight up, while Lukas picked Smarty Pants of the ground. They both brought Twily and Smarty Pants to safety behind her mother’s which comforted Twilight. “Freeze! Police!” Hans screamed, his pistol drawn. Jonas did the same.
The Leader said to his colleges who were holding her Hands in surrender, “You two cowards stay back; I will deal with you personally.” He pointed to me. I Gave Hans and Jonas a sign to stay back and raised my hands in a Fight position.
The Leader tried to punch me but I dodged every punch he made and responded with a counter strike. I taunted, “No so tough as I thought.” “Shut up!” The Leader shouted. My tactic to taunt him, to lower his guard worked. I gave him a strong punch which caused him to stumble. I took the opportunity to give him a last punch that made him unconscious.
His friends tried to run away in fear but both crashed in each other. Then, they fell unconscious to the ground. When that happened, a funny line that a comrade said to me back in the Second World War came into my mind. “Our veterans, six years of war, their veterans, six days of war.“
Except for their Leader who had little fighting experience, these guys had no fighting experience at all. I had years of experience. “Well, that saves me some talking,” Hans said to me, “I take from here. Now, look after your daughter,” He added before he and Jonas handcuffed the boys.
I walked over to Twilight. What I saw broke my heart. Twilight was crying her fur dirty and she had multiple scratches and bruises. Blood came out of a small wound of her left hind leg. Now, it was obviously that she was a real unicorn and no costume. Julia hummed a lullaby and rocks her gently, while Sarah was taking care of the wound. Paul and Lukas had both concern looks on their faces. “Please tell us that she will be alright,” Lukas said with a sad voice to me.
After Hans and Jonas had put the boys in a patrol car Julia spoke quiet not to wake Twilight. “Poor girl, she doesn’t deserve this.”
When we arrived at my house, Julia was gently putting Twilight in the guest bed.
We all sat down in the Living room. “Ok here goes nothing.” I spoke mentally.
Author's Note
How will James friends react? You will see in the next chapter.
Chapter 4 Declarations and fears
Chapter 4: Declarations and fears
I explained them everything. From the beginning when I found Twilight, from her home, to her fears. I also told Hans and Jonas what really happened to my Family. It was not easy but I stayed calm. Everybody was speechless. Hans was the first who broke the silence, “So you are telling us, that she is a real Unicorn from another World?” I nodded. “But I’m also sorry what happened to your Family.”
“To be honest with you, I never came over the death of my Family. But Twilight, when I found her, seems to help me to come over it when I took care of her. I just lied because, I feared when somebody finds out about her, that the secret service or even worse the soviets would take her away and abuse her for experiments,” I explained. That Fear reminded me of the Experiments that the SS did with Prisoners I heard from when the war was over.
“So we do,” Lukas and Paul spoke together and saluted to me.
“Thanks. That means a lot to me. And that you keep Twilights existence a secret. I would never forgive myself, if something bad would happen to her.”
Our conversation was cut off by crying. I stood up from the couch and ran to the guest room. Twilight was crying worse than before. “Twilight, what’s wrong?” Twilight was startled by my Question.
“Just a bad Dream, that’s all.” I didn’t believe a single word.
After those words, she broke completely down, “I’m sorry for bringing you and your friends into trouble this evening! I didn’t want this to happen! Now you hate me! Please don’t hurt me!” She sobbed hardly understandable between sobs.
My heart broke, how she could think of this? Maybe from a Nightmare? I gently hugged her and spoke, “Shh, Twilight, I don’t hate you neither do my friends. Bad things do happen. I would never slap you for something like that. Besides, you are actually the best what happened in my life after I lost my Family.”
“Of Course. I never had so much Joy before,” I comforted her. Behind me stood my Friends in the Doorway. They also had sad expressions on her Faces. Their Hearts also broke, after they heard what Twilight said.
Lukas and Paul spoke up first, “Twilight, you are our best Friend, we would never hate you.”
“Twilight, I’m your friend and helper. I meet everyday people like these guys. As a police officer, it is my duty to protect the innocent like you. If somebody should bother you again, just tell me and I will take of it,” Hans comforted her.
Jonas added, “I swear to you with my Honor, if someone tries to take you away, I will defend you with my life.”
After we all comforted her, she wiped a Tear out of her eye. “Really?”
“Really.” We responded with a group hug.
“Thank you all, for being here for me!” She cried out happy with Tears of joy.
“Anytime Twilight. Can you tell us more about your brother and Foal sitter?” Lukas asked.
Twilight talked with Paul and Lukas about her brother and how he wanted to become a royal guard, her Foal sitter Cadence and showed them their special greeting routine. She also showed them, what Magical tricks she could do with her horn. They impressed and amazed them at the same time. Hans and Jonas were impressed about her brother wanting to become a royal guard, meaning that it will not be easy to become an elite soldier like this. Julia and Sarah were impressed about Twilights Magic, meaning that their parents must be really proud at her. It didn’t take long until the kids found out, that Twilight was ticklish. They tickled her until she lay on the ground, trying to catch her breath from laughing. Nevertheless, this made them tired.
After Lukas, Paul and Twilight were all asleep, Hans spoke to me, “It’s late we should get home. Despite the incident, it was very fun. Goodnight, James.”
He picked gently Paul of the ground and left with Julia. Jonas and Sarah did the same, except that Sarah picked Lukas up. I laid Twilight gently back into the guest bed before I went into my own. She reminded me so much of my Son. Although, he was only one year old before he died, Lena write in the letters to me, when I was on the front, that he liked to listen to the stories she readied to him. She believed when he is older, he will like reading like I did. Twilight reminded me very much of it. But for now, let’s get some Rest.
The next morning was different. When I woke up, Twilight stood in the Doorway. She looked sad. “Good morning James. I-I want to apologize for what happened yesterday.”
Twilight's ears dropped. “Well, I had a Nightmare after I fell asleep. I dreamed that you were injured in the fight but you recovered very fast from it. Still, you and your friends were blaming me for it. You started to beat me. I begged for mercy but everybody even Paul and Lukas just looked coldblooded down to me, saying that I deserved it. After you asked what is wrong, I feared that it would become real. I’m so…”
Before she could finish it, I put my finger on her lips. "Shh, it’s ok. You know, you remind me of my Son.”
Her ears stood again when I said this. “I remind you after your Son? But how?” She asked with confused and with Joy.
“How should I say? My wife wrote me in Letters, that John liked to listen to the stories she read him. She believed, when he gets older, that he will like to read like you and I,” I explained to her.
She hugged me “I’m so glad to hear this from you!” she said to me but was short cut by a cry of pain. I looked down to her wound. It was slowly becoming better but it was still painful.
Outside were Paul and Lukas. They had a basket full of chocolate. “We are here to wish Twilight a good recovery after what happened yesterday. We also want to make feel her better,” Paul explained.
“Come inside.” Twilight was pleased with the visit. She did her greeting routine which the kids returned. They shared the chocolate together. Then Twilight asked me, “James can we see you in your Uniform?”
That Question surprised me. I still had all my Uniforms in my wardrobe but never expected that Question. I asked in return, “I have several Uniforms, which one you want to see?”
“Ok, I’m right back.” I switched from the suit to my old uniform. Despite not wearing for so many years, I still washed it. Still fits perfect. Even the gasmask. I walked in the Living room trying to speak, only to remember how difficult it was to speak with the mask on.
“With the Mask you look very scary,” Paul added. I breathed which caused a scary breathing sound. That caused Twilight to shiver a bit. “Sounds scary.”
“Humph!” was everything I could say through my Gas mask. I stretched my Arm after her.
I chased them into the garden. I hadn’t so much fun for years! It was so nice to listen to Twilights laughing and see her smiling. I could swear, if that could be used as a weapon, then it would be deadlier than a tactical nuke. Tactical smile incoming, it’s over! After a while, we laid down in the grass, laughing. Laughing with the mask on was no problem. “Honey, look over there,” Came from behind. I turned around. Hans, Julia, Jonas and Sarah had watched everything. Oh dammit, this is embarrassing! I took my Gas mask off so I could speak clearly.
“The Uniform suits you but it was certainly not easy in the trenches with the tip on the helmet,” Jonas commented.
“James, may I ask why the helmet has a tip?” Twilight asked.
“Simple. The pickelhaube has its Origin from the time where fights were fought with sabers. The tip had the function to distract chops to the side. However it was outdated when the First World War began,” I explained to her.
“Of course, we continue.” I said before putting the Gas mask again. We played the entire day until it was getting late. Our Friends said their goodbyes before they left. While I was putting my Uniform back into the wardrobe, Twilight spoke, “That was very fun James. We should do did again.”
“Of course sweetie. But now, let’s eat something and then go to bed so we have the energy for it, ok?”
Twilight saluted. “Yes, Sir.” We ate some bread before going into the bed. “James, do you mind if I can sleep with you tonight?”
“Not at all Twily,” I responded. Twilight was fast asleep. “I hadn’t so much fun before. Yet, I hope that your Family finds you soon Twilight,” I thought before closing my eyes.
Equestria Canterlot
It was a beautiful night in the capital of Equestria. All citizens were sleeping. Except one. Velvet Sparkle, Twilights mother. She could not sleep since her little Filly went missing. She was afraid what happened to her daughter. Was she alright? Velvet did know that Twilight couldn’t survive on her own. She was afraid, that she would never see her beloved daughter again. She got out of the bed to catch some fresh air on the balcony. “Honey, are you alright?” Her Husband Crescent “nightlight” Sparkle asked.
“I’m all right, Crescent. I’m just worried about our Filly. I would never forgive myself if something bad happened to her,” She responded with worry in her voice.
“Thanks for making me hope. It’s just difficult to stay calm, since Twilight is missing.”
“I know Honey, I know.”
Just as they both were about to go into bed again, they heard Shining Armor made himself self-reproach. “This is my Fault! I should have been with her! I don’t deserve to be a royal guard or a big brother! I’m the worst big brother ever!”
Velvet didn’t like what she heard so she trotted to Shining Armors room to comfort him. “Shining, stop blaming, yourself. It was an accident. Even if somepony had noticed it, there was nothing we could do. Now, we can only wait and hope.” “Thanks Mom. It’s just I miss her and I’m worried.” “We all are, shining, we all are. But now get some Sleep.”
Velvet however had Nightmares about her Filly whatever she tried to sleep. This Dream however, brought her an important hint. “Mommy, Mommy!” Twilight cried.
“Don’t worry, Momma is coming!” But whatever she tried to reach Twilight, she was stopped by an invisible Force that forced her to listen to the heartbreaking cries of her daughter.
But this time, she heard a masculine Voice, “Leave her alone!” As soon as she heard those words, the Force began to break. She fell exhausted to the ground.
Again she heard the Voice, “Are you alright?” She looked up. She saw a bipedal creature kneeled down to her. It had a blonde Mane, blue eyes and two claws. It wore a blue Suit with red tie and a blue Hat. On its Suit was some kind of Cross. It had also a familiar cross on its neck.
“Yes, I’m. Where’s my daughter?” She asked.
The creature responded, “Just ahead. Follow me.” She followed the creature without Question. The Safety of her daughter had top priority. “Mommy!” Cried Twilight happy when she saw her mother.
Velvet hugged her with tears of Joy. “Twilight, I’m here for you. I’m so glad that you are alright. Thank you, Sir. If you weren’t here in time, I had never found her. But tell me, what's your name?”
“You don’t need to thank me; it’s my Job to help other people. Just call me James,” James responded. “Thank you Mr. James, for helping me to find my daughter. I will be always grateful for that.”
However, just as James opened his mouth to reply, he started to vanish. The same happened to Twilight. “No! Twilight, stay with me!” Velvet cried.
She woke up in cold sweat. “Honey, did you have another nightmare?” Her Husband asked.
“Yes Nightlight, but this time it was different. Some kind of bipedal creature helped me to find our little Filly. His name was James.”
Crescent liked it when his wife used his nickname. For some reason, he liked it more than his real Name. What Velvet told him surprised and confused him. “A bipedal creature? Can you describe it?” He asked.
Velvet put a hoof to her chin. “Mhm. It had a blonde mane, blue eyes and some kind of claws. It wore a Blue suit with red tie and a blue hat. On its Suit was a cross. It had also one on its neck. If I’m not mistaken, it was some kind of Award. It was male, called, himself James.”
“Sounds like a Human. Twilight read about the humans very much. We should report that to the princess tomorrow. It sounds like a hint where our Filly could be,” Nightlight responded.
“That’s a good Idea.” Velvet said before both were asleep again. With the possible hint where Twilight could be, she could sleep much better.
The morning came. Velvet climbed out of the bed and stretched herself. She led out a yawn before she heard a knock on the Door. She trotted over and opened it. Outside were standing Princess Celestia, Princess Cadence, Celestia’s niece and two guards. Velvet bowed immediately.
“Arise, my loyal subject. There’s no need to bow,” Celestia spoke in a motherly and friendly tone. “Your Highness, have you new information, about my daughter?” Velvet asked with concern.
“Unfortunately not but we are still searching. And I will not give up. May we come in?”
“Of course.” Crescent and Shining Armor woke up as the visitors came in.
They both bowed. “Good morning, you’re Highness,” They spoke together.
“Good Morning dear subjects,” Celestia replied.
“Shining Armor, I’m so sorry for what happened with Twilight. I should have watched her,” Cadence spoke in a sad and guilty tone.
Celestia extended her wing over her niece. “Cadence, it isn’t your fault. It was an accident. It happened so fast, that even I couldn’t do something, had I noticed it in time,” She comforted her niece. They all sat down in the Living room, except for the guards who stood. Velvet brought some Tea and some Biscuits.
"Well my dear subjects, my Guards have searched every Piece of Equestria but didn’t found Twilight. The only option that is left is that she is landed in another world.”
“Oh no. I hope that Twilight is alright,” said Cadence with worry and surprise.
“Your Highness, I have an idea where our poor filly could be,” Velvet spoke up.
“A Human?!” Shining Armor and Cadence asked surprised.
She used her horn to cast a spell that showed how a male human looked. “Mrs. Sparkle, is this creature you saw in your dream?”
“Yes, Princess.”
“Then, I will order my guards to search for any Unicorn Magic they can find on Earth. If Twilight is here, then we can find her. Hope for the best but prepare for the worst.” Just as she said that, one of the guards saluted and left.
“And why Auntie?” Cadence asked.
Our only hope is, if Twilight landed on Earth, that the human you met in your dream or some other kindly Human found her and not one if these bad Humans.” She explained but tried to get out the thought, that Twilight was abused for experiments. Princess Celestia had also read that in a dark chapter of the human history that humans abused other Humans for experiments. They also killed them or abused them, because of their color or religion or even because of their politics or because they criticized the government."
Shining Armor panicked, “My sister could be on the Earth?! Oh no! What if the humans abuse her for experiments?! What if they kill her?! What if…” he wasn’t able to finish as Princess Celestia extended her wing over him.
“Relax my young pony, I understand your fear about your sister, but now, we must find out if she is on earth at all. But I’m sure if she is on Earth, that she is in good hands,” Celestia spoke in a calming and motherly tone.
Shining Armor didn’t know what to say, he did know that Princess Celestia was a caring pony when it came to her subjects, but he never expected this. “Th- Than- Thank you, Princess,” He responded stunned and blushing. Oh this is embarrassing! Right in front of Cadence! He thought since she was the niece of Celestia and he had a crush on her.
Cadence giggled “Oh Shining Armor, you so cute when you blushing,” She commented. Tactical embarrassing incoming it’s over!
“I’m sorry but I must leave now. I will be in touch if I have new Information. Goodbye,” Celestia said before, she, Cadence and the guard left.
“Honey, now I’m really worried about our sweet daughter,” Nightlight said to his wife.
“Don’t worry my dear Husband, for some reason I can feel that Twilight is safe and sound. This human I saw in my dream, seems to be very serious when it comes to safe or cheer up a child. I have also the feeling, that he is real and has found Twilight.”
“What makes you so sure?” Nightlight asked.
“Mom, Dad, I’m sorry for panicked earlier, I’m just worried about her condition,” Shining Armor apologized.
“There’s no need to apologize young stallion, you have every right to it. But for now, we should start our day,” Spoke Nightlight.
“You’re right. Despite Twilight's disappearing, we should not be fazed,” Added Velvet.
“Oh, I almost forgot, I must go to work, bye!” Nightlight called out before he was going out through the front door. After Nightlight left for work, Shining Armor and his mother started their usual day.
Princess Celestia and Princess Cadence were on their way back to the castle. Celestia heard Cadence sobbing. ”Cadence, are you worried about Twilight?”
“Yes, I am. If she is on Earth, is she still alive? What if we are wrong and the bad humans have her?”
Celestia gave her a comforting smile. “To be honest, even I am worried. I care for my subjects and foals are no exception. However, do you remember this Human, Mrs. Sparkle mentioned?”
“Yes, I do.” “When I said to Shining Armor that his sister is in good hands, I said that because I believe that, this James is the Human who found Twilight. Still, I could be wrong.”
“Do you really think that Twilight is safe, Aunt Celestia?” Celestia nodded.
“My guards are informed that they should search the Earth. Undercover of Course.”
“And how is this supposed to work?” “Simple my dear niece. They use a spell which makes them invisible for the humans. So they can search for Twilight, without being detected. I also gave them the order to search for this 'James' that Mrs. Sparkle described, just in case.”
Everypony went on his usual Day until it was noon. Princess Celestia was on her throne doing some paperwork. The Doors opened to reveal a guard. The guard ran to the throne. “News from our search party from Earth, your Highness! They have found Twilight and the human.”
He bowed. “Glad to hear it. Where exactly?”
The guard responded, “1960. In West Germany in a small Town called Volkach.”
Celestia let out a sigh of relief. She was glad that Twilight didn’t land in the Time of the Third Reich or eastern Germany, or any War. She also knows how Germany was divided and how dictatorial the east was. “Good, tell my niece and Twilights family that we have found her. Our search party can come back.”
Velvet was cleaning the house as she heard a knock on the Door. She opened the door to reveal a Royal guard. Behind him were standing her Husband, Cadence and Shining Armor.
“I shall inform you, that your daughter has been found. I shall take you to the Princess.” Velvet wasted no time. She and her Family and Cadence followed the guard to Princess Celestia. The Sparkle family bowed.
“Rise. I have good news. Twilight is on the Earth. From the reports of my guards, she is with the man called James.”
“Your Highness, were exactly is she?” Nightlight asked.
“In a Country called Germany. She is in a town called Volkach,” Celestia explained. “But I must inform you, that Germany is a little bit… confusing because of it’s past.”
“What are we waiting for? I cannot wait to see my daughter again!” Velvet exclaimed excited.
“I will cast a spell that will, teleport us to her, but it will also make us invisible for the humans and her until we are ready.”
“We understand your carefulness,” Nightlight said.
“Ok, here we go.” Celestia’s horn glowed before she, her niece, Twilights family and two guards vanished in a white light.
Author's Note
Now you know how Ponykind know of humanity. Celestia did some research as Princess and Twilight has taken the same interest from Princess Celestia. How will be the meeting between them?
Chapter 5 Rescue has arrived
Chapter 5: Rescue has arrived
Germany Volkach
Two weeks have passed after I found Twilight. She hadn’t had any nightmares after her breakdown. Her wound was healed; the scratches and bruises were gone. The Leader of the group that attacked her in the park was send to prison after his “comrades” testify against him. He blackmailed them to work for him. The two boys were released after this. They also apologized to Twilight, for what happened, which she accepted. Lukas and Paul came regularly to visit me and Twilight to play with her, watch cartoons and so on. They did even a sleepover. Sarah, Julia and me did make a present for Twilight, to help her against homesickness. But we decided to show it to her, after our little role play.
Jonas was a German scientist that holds Twilight as prisoner while Hans played as an allied agent that mission was to safe her. “Agent Wesley, isn’t it? You are a coequal enemy. But this ends now. Let me introduce you to someone. Do not confuse it with the mere prototypes you've encountered. This is the pinnacle of all my research. Das Über-Soldat. The Super Soldier. It will be my pleasure to watch it destroy you."
The Super Soldier was me in my Wehrmacht Heer Uniform with gas mask. The prototype was me in my older Imperial German Army uniform with mask minus the haube but with helmet. I was “armed” with an MG and a Panzer Faust. Hans was “armed” with a SMG and an FG 42.
“Give up Wesley, the Super Soldier is invulnerable to small arms like this,” Jonas taunted. Then Hans toke notice, that the breathing device, consisting of the Gas mask and the backpack that was connected to it, was the weak point of the Super Soldier. I fired the Panzer Faust but Hans dodged it and fired with his FG 42 on my backpack. It “exploded” and I coughed. Hans used this to his to finished me off with a bullet to my head. I let out a dead scream and fell to the ground.
“Impossible! This can’t be! We will fight another Time.” Jonas couldn’t believe that the Agent destroyed the Über-Soldat and fled.
“My hero,” said Twilight.
Julia, Sarah, Lukas and Paul had watched everything. They laughed. Jonas, Hans and Twilight too. I resurrected and laughed too. I took my mask off. “Well, this was fun.”
“Yes, I had never so much fun before, James,” Twilight replied.
“Everything to make you happy and see you smile, Twilight. Let’s get inside; we have a present for you,” I said to her. She was exited after she heard this. I changed my clothes to my suit.
“Close your eyes and open them only when said,” Julia spoke to her. “And no peeking.” Twilight obeyed. We picked up the gift.
“You can open your eyes,” Sarah said. Twilight let out a gasp and a tear of joy. The gift was a collection of self-made plush toys of her family. “Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! That is the nicest gift I ever seen!” She let out.
“You’re welcome. We made it to help you against homesickness. It was James idea,” Hans explained.
Twily hugged me. “Apart from my Family and the Princesses, nopony was ever this nice to me.”
Before she could answer, we heard a knock on the Front door. Only my Friends visited me and nobody else. I told Twilight to hide upstairs. I opened the Door. Before me, stood Princess Celestia in person! Or should I say inpony? Never mind. I was so stunned from her beautiful hair floating in the air and her beautiful yet imposing appearance, that I didn’t know if I should bow or salute to her.
Before I could do anything, she spoke up, “Good day Sir, is Twilight Sparkle here?”
“Yes. Please come in.” I stepped respectful aside. After the Princess came two guards and Twilights family. Hans and Jonas were sitting on the couch. They stood up and saluted when they saw the Princess. “At ease. There’s no need to be respectful like this,” She spoke to them.
“Nice place you have here.” Cadence looked around.
“Of course. She is upstairs, playing with her friends.”
“Friends? Do you have a good relationship with her?” Her father had a confused look on his face. Before I could answer, Shining Armor and Cadence had noticed the plush toys and the drawing.
“Oh how cute. Did you make the toys by yourself?” Cadence looked with joy at them.
I nodded. “It was my Idea, but all my friends helped me with it. It was supposed to help against homesickness.”
Twilight's parents had a shocked look on their faces after they heard this. ”Good, that you did found her. I cannot image, what happened to her, if you didn’t found her. By the way, how did you found her?” Twilight’s mother asked.
“Well, I did a walk in the evening. My Backstory is, however difficult to explain. But how about that I call Twilight down? She will be very happy,” I suggested.
“Good Idea.”
“Mommy! Daddy!”
“Don’t forget your brother and your foal sitter.” Shining Armor had tears of joy in his eyes.
“Bbbff!” She hugged her brother.
I smiled, when I saw how Twilight was reunited with her family, and so did my friends. Princess Celestia however tried to hide her smile, which she made very well that I almost didn’t notice. “Oh, how impolite. My name is Jessie Günther but most people call me by my Nickname James. These are my friends: Hans, Jonas, their wife’s Julia and Sarah and their Children, Twilight's best friends, Paul and Lukas.”
“Pleasure to meet you. I am Velvet Sparkle and these are my Husband Crescent also called Nightlight, our Son Shining Armor and Twilight's foal sitter Cadence,” Velvet introduced Twilight's family.
“And I’m Princess Celestia, ruler of Equestria and in control of the Sun.”
“Nice to meet you all. It is an Honor to meet you your Highness.” I bowed respectfully. “But tell me, how did you find her?”
“Mrs. Sparkle can explain it,” Celestia said.
Velvet spoke up, “Well, since Twilight was missing, I had nightmares about her. But in one of these, you came to my aid to help me find her. I told Princess Celestia about my Dream. She ordered her guards to search the earth for our Filly.”
“Are these awards you are wearing on your suit?” Shining Armor pointed with interest to my awards.
“Yes. I am a War veteran. Twily told me everything about you. She also told me that you wanted to be a royal guard. I wish you good luck with that.” Shining armor blushed.
“I’m quite surprised. I expected more resistance,” Celestia said.
“Why would I? I care for Children. Besides, I promised Twilight to take care of her until you would come.” Even after my Family died, I still care for children.”
“Your Family died?!” Cadence was shocked. She looked at the pictures on the wall.
“Yes. They died in the war. I never came over it. Until I found Twilight. She helped me. But she also remind of my son,” I explained.
“My past is dark and difficult to explain. But I try my best to tell it.”
“That won’t be necessary. I can cast a spell that shows us you’re past. That will make it much easier for you to tell. If you want of course. But if you don’t want you don’t have to,” Celestia explained.
Everybody and pony closed their eyes. Celestia's horn glowed white.
Author's Note
Looks like Twilight is finally reunited with her family. Interested in James past and Experience as soldier?
As you can guess, the role play was based after the fight with the Super Soldier from the game Return to Castle Wolfenstein
Chapter 6 Memory’s and past
Chapter 6 Memory’s and past
When I opened my eyes, I was transparent. And so was everybody and pony else. I looked around.
“Wait a sec. Is the house of my parents?” I was confused.
“Well, yes, the spell I casted was a memory spell that shows us your life,” Celestia explained.
“Interesting. For born on a farm, your room looks very nice." Jonas looked around. The walls were painted baby blue. He stopped when he saw a crib with a sleeping baby in it. Cadence had a big smile on her face.
“Mr. James, that is you, isn’t it?” I smiled and nodded. Suddenly the baby began to cry. Everypony jumped. A Cat ran in and jumped on the crib so she could see what was wrong. “Meow! Meow!”
“Coming!” a female voice called out. Then an adult woman came in. She had blonde hair and blue eyes just like me. “Shh, Jessie, Mommy is here.” She gently lifted the baby up and rocks him gently and sang the same lullaby I sang for Twilight.
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star How I wonder what you are Up above the World so High Like a Diamond in the Sky When the blazing Sun is gone When there nothing shines upon Then you show your little light Twinkle twinkle all the night Then the traveler in the dark Thanks you for your little spark He could not see which way to go If you did not twinkle so When the blazing Sun is gone When there nothing shines upon Though I know not what you are Twinkle twinkle little star
She smiled as the baby was asleep again. “Mommy loves you, Jessie.” She carefully lowered the baby back in the crib. She gave him a kiss on his forehead. “Sweet dreams. Come, Minnie.” Minnie let out a quiet, “Meow” before she followed my mother out of the room. A single tear escaped my eye. Good memories.
“James, was that your mother?” Twilight asked with tears in her eyes.
“Yes and this was our cat Minnie who had deployed a maternal instinct for me. She was always the first one in the room when I cried.”
“What race is she?”
“European Shorthair. Unfortunately, she died a few years after I was born from a disease. She had live longer if it was properly treated. But the medicine was not so far, as it is today.” Everyone even the guards and Princess Celestia a tears in their eyes.
Velvet spoke up, “This reminds me so much when you were born Twilight. The same goes for you, Shining.” Julia and Sarah said the same to their children. “This is a nice memory, but close your eyes and we will visit the next memory,” Celestia spoke softly. We all nodded before we closed our eyes.
As we opened our eyes, we found ourselves in the same room but it was painted sea blue. I saw my younger self reading a book about Germany. I was 8 years old. “Hey big brother, what are you doing?” John entered my room.
He had also blue eyes but brown hair instead of blond.
“Reading. I am so interested in Germany that I want to go there when I’m older. I also want to be a soldier like Dad but a doctor like Mom.” Mom and Dad entered the room. “I can see you have got my friendly, polite and helpful personality but the patriotism of your father,” Mother said.
“I think you should become a Medic James. And you John should become an officer.” My brother was similar to me but he always wanted to be a commander.
“But now time for Dinner.”
“Yes, Sir!” We both saluted.
Shining Armor giggled. “This reminds me when I was younger and dreamed to be a royal guard.”
“Guess we aren’t so different from each other. My brother had the same patriotism but for the USA instead of Germany. He wanted to be a commander. Despite the difference in patriotism, we understood us very well. My father was an officer in the US Army while my mother was a Nurse with German origin. My brother was born two years after me. I was born 1895.” Twilight’s family had their mouths wide open.
“If you were born 1895 how can you still, be so young? Shouldn’t you be to suppose an old man?” Shining Armor was surprised.
“I had an accident that changed my life. I can’t age anymore. It will be explained later.”
“Ok.”
Age: 18
This was the day when I decided to immigrate to Germany. My Parents and my Brother stood in the doorway while I was standing outside. “I will miss you James. But I respect your choice. Good luck out there,” My father said.
“My little boy grown up.” Mother had tears in her eyes.
“I will miss you too, brother. I have made something for you.” John gave me a pocket watch with a family photo in it.
“That’s very nice from you John. But don’t worry. I will write letters to you.” We did a group hug.
“You care for your family very much,” Velvet said with pride. Everybody else had a smile on with their faces.
“Yes I do. Very much.”
“Well, I was a young fool. Young and patriotic. The Sarajevo assassination was the reason the war broke out. Before there was a great distrust. After Heir to the throne, Franz Ferdinand was killed; the start of the war was unstoppable.”
Before anybody could say something we were interrupted. “Hang in there! I got you!” a young man in a medic uniform ran through us to help a wounded soldier. I recognized the medic as me.
”Don’t worry, you going to be fine. How can you be so calm with such a wound?” I asked while carried him to the infirmary.
“I have a trick: Count to four, inhale Count to four, exhale,” The soldier responded.
“How’s your name, kid?”
“Just call me James.”
“I’m Hauptmann Fritz. Fritz Schulz.”
“Pleasure.” I sat him carefully down. As I was about to check his wound, he called out, “Enemy, six o clock!” I turned around.
A France soldier tried to attack us but I quickly drew my Pistol 08 and shot him in the head. “Wow James. You are a good shot. With an aim like that you could be a sniper. James is just your nickname, isn’t it?”
“How did you know?”
“I read about Jesse James. A Friend of mine saw you when you came first into Germany.”
“Ok I admit it, I am German-American.”
“No reason to be embarrassed. I watched you quite some time. I’m impressed that you leave never a comrade behind no matter what. Your name fits you very well. You earn the iron cross for your braveness. I will pass on my recommendations to the Kaiser.”
“Thank you Sir but for now, you should rest before you do anything,” I responded surprised by his action.
“You’re the doctor.”
Velvet shielded Twilights eyes. Still, she tried to peek through it. “How could you do such a cruel thing?!” Velvet asked with a shocked voice.
“It was war. I had to fight. What else I could do?”
What I didn’t expect was that Twilight spoke up, “It’s ok Mom. He was a medic. He did only defend himself. Medics are protected by the Geneva Conventions. Medics must not be attacked. It’s against the law which the blue soldier broke.”
“You learned much about the human world I see." Princess Celestia was proud of her. I was still worried about Twilight that she was shocked when I shot the French. She showed no sight of it however.
“Twilight, I’m sorry that you have to see that.”
“As I said before it is ok. It was not good what you did but it was self-defense, so it is understandable. Besides ,I looked away.”
I let out a sigh of relief.
“Achtung!” called someone out. I and my comrades stood at attention. A car drove by. It was Kaiser Wilhelm II. “Is this Kaiser Wilhelm?” Paul asked curious.
“Yes it is. He was visiting the front and he gave me and some other soldiers the iron cross. For me, it was an Honor to get an award from such a Royalty. And I am proud of it. I will never forget such a proud moment like this”. I had proud in my voice. “Soldier Günther.” The Kaiser gave me the cross then walked the next soldier. Hauptmann Schultz” The Kaiser gave him a cross too. The last one was Hoffmann. One of my best friends I knew in the war. “Soldier Hoffmann.” The officer of our company said. Kaiser Wilhelm did a morale speech before he left.
“Wow impressive. This must be a great day for you. Getting an award from the Kaiser personally must be exciting.” Shining Armor was impressed.
“Yes it was. The Iron cross was given to soldiers with great braveness, which I showed when I helped injured Soldiers. I had great respect for the Kaiser and the commanders. This is also the reason why I’m so respectful towards Princess Celestia and Cadence.” Cadence blushed.
“From your experience, I can understand why you are so respectful towards me and my niece, but you don’t need to,” Celestia spoke in a friendly tone. “I was also respected for my actions. After that I served as a Sniper.”
The Memory changed to the time when I was a sniper. A young recruit was standing next to me and was very nervous. “Sir I think, I getting sick. This is normal?” He asked.
“Don’t worry, I know a trick: Count to four, inhale, count, to four, exhale.” He was doing it as I told him.
“Thanks Sir, I’m much calmer now.”
“Anytime kid. Now watch.” I aimed down the scope of my rifle and did the trick Schultz, told me to have a steady aim. I hit one French Soldier, operated the bolt, shot a British Soldier and just barely another but hit him still. “Lucky shot. Still counts. But Skill always beats luck.”
“Wow you barely miss, how can you be so a skilled sniper?” The recruit was speechless. “Years of practice.”
“This is how a sniper fights? I must say your nickname fits very well James.” Twilight was very impressed.
“Thanks, Twily. Despite the horror of the war, there were also nice moments like the Christmas truce.”
The scene switched to a few German and British soldiers singing together. “Ah, the Christmas truce in 1914. Beautiful memories.”
“In Equestria, we also have a Holyday like this. It is called Hearth's Warming Eve. It is about the founding of Equestria,” Twilight explained.
“Interesting, I never thought that we have so much in common.”
The Christmas scene faded. We found ourselves in a storage room. “Looks like a storage room. Wait what’s in these canisters?” Jonas did take a closer look: “giftgas lungenkampfstoff vorsicht!” But there were also all other kinds if poison gas. “This is where the accident happened isn’t it?” Jonas asked. I nodded
“So you like it in France James?” Two Soldiers walked in.
“Yes, Hoffmann, I really do. Despite the war, the cities are beautiful. But I feel a little bit unsafe with these canisters.”
“Relax man, what’s the worst that can happen?” Just as he said these words. we heard a hissing sound.
“What is that? Oh Crap! The gas is released! Quick, we must get out of here Hoffmann!” Before my younger self and Hoffman began to cough violently, I turned to the children. “Please look away.”
“Why?” Paul asked. The answer was the violent coughing and vomit that came up.
Velvet, Julia and Sarah did their best to spare their children from this scene. Celestia putted a wing over Cadence. Even Celestia and her guards couldn’t get well with this. “That must be a horrible experience for you. But how can you survive something like this?” Nightlight was shocked.
"I still I wonder the same question over and over again. The victims coughed literally their lungs out. Horrible and painful. But when I was recovering in the hospital, I met my future wife.” Cadence had a big smile on her face.
“You did? Please tell me how you meet her, please!” She begged excited to hear it.
“There isn’t much to tell. She was the nurse who fixed me up. Love on first sight. But see for yourself.”
We were now in a hospital. I was talking with another Soldier that was lying in a bed right next to me. “You lucky that you've survived all that. I barely survived an artillery strike just next to me. You had damn good luck. Your friend hadn’t so much luck.”
“I know, poor Hoffmann. May, he rest in peace.” A Beautiful nurse with brown hair and green eyes walked in.
“Which of you is Günther?”
“That is me *cough*”
“I am here to take care of you. I must admit you're pretty tough.” She looked at me with an amorous glance. I couldn’t help but do the same.
“Well I was born on a farm so it isn’t anything new to…” I was cut off by a kiss on my lips from the nurse. My comrade just laughed.
“Watch out James. This kind of disease cannot be cured.”
“Whatever.I...don't believe we've been introduced."
“Lena. Lena Engel.”
“Such a nice name. You a really an Angel." That caused Lena to blush. As I recovered, we spend more time together. I told her about my origin and my brother. Lena was thrilled. Shortly before I had to go back to the front, I asked her, “Do you want to marry me?” Lena had tears of joy in her eyes.
“More than anything. But I think it is better that we wait with our wedding until the War is over.”
But how long will that take?” She asked me in a Forlorn voice.
"The commanders are saying 'not long'" I replied with a uncertain expression.
"And what are you saying?"
I looked into her eyes for a few seconds before I kissed her. "ll come back. I promise. However this war ends, whatever it does to me, I will come back...to live whatever's left of my life as a husband."
Before I left, I wrote the letter for my Family.
Dear Father and Mother; I’m glad to tell you that I’m getting married! Don’t worry about me I am fine. How is it going in the USA? How is my Brother? You’re Son Jessie.
Cadence had tears in her eyes. “This is so beautiful! Congratulations! I can feel as the princess of Love that you were made for each other.”
“This is also how you met your wife. And how you had this accident. But how did you find out, that you can’t age anymore?” Shining Armor was still confused.
“Through a blood test. It was surprising for me and the doctors. And I found also out that I had got another surprise.”
West front 1917
I was talking with Schulz about Lena when an artillery strike hit us. Schultz managed to go to cover, I couldn’t. I survived it but had splitters in my chest. “Hold on James, I try to remove them. It’s a miracle that you survived this.” After he removed the splitter, and stopped the bleeding, he helped me to the hospital. But when we arrived, we realized that the wounds had already healed.
”How is that possible? You should be seriously wounded or dead by now.”
“I think I have the answer,” A scientist said.
“We found out that the different toxic gases mixed together seem to change your DNA. You can’t age anymore and are able to take more damage than a normal human could ever take.” I and Schulz were speechless.
Shining Armor asked confused. “Ok, how?”
“I had the presumption that the accident changed me. I never expected this. But the Scientists could never find out how this works.”
“Even with a lifetime of 1000 years I never had an experience like this.” Even Celestia was confused by this.
A Soldier spoke up, “Mail for you Günther.”
He handed the letter to me. I began to read:
Dear Jessie, We are glad to hear that you are getting married, and wish you good luck as a future Husband. But we are sorry to tell you, that your brother John who joined the US Army, is reported missing. Your Parents Cole and Kate
I cried.
Nightlight gave his condolence. “My condolence to hear this.”
“It’s ok. He was never found. But in my Heart, he is still alive. The war was over in 1918. After that we married.”
“I hereby pronounce you husband and wife.” A priest spoke up. We saw my Wedding. I smiled. I was wearing a black suit, my wife a white dress. The guests were cheering, even Schulz was here. He was wearing an eyepatch.
“This is such a beautiful moment. If only your brother was able to this! He would be so proud of you.” Twilight looked with tears over the now married couple.
“Sure he would. The post years were difficult. I was spared from the collective redundancies. Schulz was not. I supported him as much as I could. I had no problems with the new democracy. My Wife and I managed to get over the crises that came. But then the Second World War started. Schulz was fallen when the war began. I was serving in the Luftwaffe.”
We were now in the Air. Shining tried to hold on Cadence because he feared to fall. “Relax, Shining. Since this is a memory, you cannot fall to the ground. We are floating.” Cadence calmed him down. Before he could say something, he heard a roar of engines.
“Achtung! Angriffstrupp ist unterwegs. Ziel erkannt. Abwurfzone markiert.“ Three Stukas were about to dive.
“Please cover your ears. This will be loud.” I said.
Everybody and pony did this as the Stukas dived . The Sirens were very loud.
“Dammit, this was loud. But for what did you need these things?” Shining Armor asked still covering his ears.
“To demoralize and scaring the enemy. And the Sirens did a very good job. I was on the western front and in Africa. Even there, I spared wounded and surrendering soldiers and civilians as well.”
Occupied France 1940
I did a walk. Two SS soldiers cross my part .
“James, what are these men?” Twilight asked curiosity.
“SS. The “Elite”. They were known for being brutal and merciless. I believed in a fast victory but never believed in the propaganda. However, I followed orders for the protection of my Family.”
Crying was heard. I found a lost child in an alley. “Please don’t hurt me,” It pleaded in French. Thanks to the first world war, I could understand and speak fluently French.
“I won’t hurt you. Are you lost?” the Child nodded sobbing. “Don’t worry, I bring you home. How is your name?”
“Lucas. Marchand," The Boy answered.
“A nice name. I am Private Jessie Günther but you can call me James. Where do you live?” I picked him up.
“I live in the Axe historique 16. Do you know where it is?” I chuckled.
“Yes I do. I live there as part of the occupying force. A nice place.”
“This I my house.” Lucas pointed to a small house. I knocked on the Door. A Woman opened the Door.
“Yes? Can I help you?" She asked with a sad voice but tried to hide it.
“I believe, you are missing your son?” I revealed Lucas behind me.
“Mommy!” He cried happy.
“Lucas!” They embraced. “I can’t thank you enough! How is your name?"
“Private Günther. But you can call me James. How is your Name?”
“Lucie. The uniform suits you very good. Do you want to come in?”
“Sure why not.”
“You have a heart for children I can see.” Celestia smiled.
“Well, in France we had order to show us from our best side. But I always help children in need, no matter what. And I must admit our uniforms looked very good, especially the black uniforms of the SS.”
“I must say, despite that the SS did bad things, but their uniforms looked very beautiful,” Julia added.
“After we met, we stayed in contact. Despite the difference in language, we understood us very well. In the Battle of Britain I earned the iron cross again.”
We were again in the air. We saw many planes. “Is this the Battle if Britain?” Twilight looked around. We heard Radio chatter.
“James, we have a Spitfire on our tail! I cannot shot it down!” My copilot shouted.
“Relax Hans; I still have a trick up my sleeve.”
“And that is?”
“Watch this.” I did a looping which the Spitfire pilot didn’t saw coming. Now I was behind him. “Wohls bekommt!” I shouted while shooting him down. Hans was surprised after the Spitfire was going down in flames.
“We will definitely get iron crosses for this if we survive the battle.”
“Battle or no battle, we must abort, we are at low fuel. Inform our escort that we are going home.”
“Will be donem” Hans replied.
“Impressive James. I bet that this was not easy.” Twilight was impressed.
“The Germans had the disadvantage that the planes had not enough fuel for this task and the stukas were slow and vulnerable without escort. If we had not this disadvantage we had won the battle. After this defeat I was in the Africa corps that was founded 1941.”
Now we were in a Desert. A Man wrote a letter.
Dear Lena, I miss you very much, but you know that I have to do my duty. I wish you could be here, the sunsets are beautiful here. Don’t worry about me; I have no problem with the heat here. You’re Husband Jessie
“Phew, it’s hot here.” Hans wipes the sweat from his forehead.
“Still better than freezing at -40 degree. And we earned the iron crosses honestly, don’t you think?”
“Of course James.” He proudly shows me his cross. I did the same with mine.
“Despite the heat, the sunsets are beautiful.“
“I agree with that, James.” We looked into the sunset until it was night. “James, you should sleep, we have a great day tomorrow.”
“I know, I just love the night. The stars, the moon, simple beautiful. Oh, look, a shooting star.” I pointed to the sky.
“Make a wish James,” Hans replied. I closed my eyes.
“James, may I ask what do you wish for?”
“Simple Twilight. I wished that I survive the war and can return to my beautiful Wife.”
I noticed that Celestia had a tear in her eye. “Your highness, is something wrong?”
“It’s just, this remind of my sister I lost long ago.”
“I'm sorry.”
“It’s alright.” She replied before we looked again over my memory.
“Goodnight Hans, sleep tight.”
“You too.” He replied before we were asleep at the campfire in our cots.
“You really loved your wife.” Jonas had tears in his eyes as well as his wife and Cadence.
“My Family was what was driving me in the War. The next Day, my wish came true but not as I expected.”
We saw a plane landing. I and my copilot got out.
A Soldier refueled our plane. “I don’t think that it is a good idea to let the gas cans stand in the blazing sun.”
“They need to refuel the plane, where should be the cans otherwise?” Hans said. A canister caught fire.
“Hans, watch out!” I shoved him away. I was caught in the explosion. "Ah dammit, that hurt!”
“James! Medic!” He shouted while running to my aid. I was seriously injured.
My friends and Twilights family were shocked at the sight.
“Come on James, stay with me!” Hans tried to keep me awake. Feld marshal Rommel came.
“What happened here?” he asked.
“Sir, a fuel can explode. My Pilot was caught in the explosion. He needs medical attention or he will die!”
“What is his name?” “Jessie Günther, but most people call him James,” Hans explained.
“Private Günther, look at me,” He commanded. I managed to look toward him.
“Sir.” I tried to salute but the pain kept me from doing it.
“Don’t move, Soldier. How are you?” He kneeled down to me.
“I will make it Herr Feld marshal. But what about the American and British?”
“It’s ok, my Son. But let this be my problem. You have done well. But now, you must rest.”
“But I can’t abandon my comrades.”
“They'll be fine. As will you. I will put you in the Field hospital and I will send you home. When you recovered again, then you are free to return of course.”
“Thank you, Herr Feld marshal.” Hans gave me a bottle of water.
“Take a sip, it’s good for you.” I took a sip. After that, Hans helped me to the Field hospital.
“That was the famous Erwin Rommel the “Desert fox” I am correct?” Twilight asked.
“Eeyup. I respected him. He also cared about his soldiers.”
“That was very generous from him,” Julia spoke.
“I was very grateful for that. Back home, my wife had wonderful news for me.” Twilight smiled because she knew what I was meaning.
I saw myself standing in front of my house.
I knocked on the Door. My wife opened the Door. “James, is that you?”
“Who did you expect?” I asked in return. She hugged me. She cried.
“When I heard the news that you were wounded, I thought that you died!”
“Hell no, It takes a lot more to finish me off.”
“Don’t ever leave me!”
“I will always with you Lena. I will be always in your heart.”
She looked at me with a smile. “James, I have something to tell you.”
“And that is?”
"I’m pregnant!” She exclaimed happy. I had tears of joy in my eyes.
“I’m going to be a father. And you will be a mother!”
"Yes James, we are going to be parents.” She hugged me harder. I let out a cry of pain. “Oh sorry, I forget the wounds and bandages out of excitement.”
"It’s ok; I’m on vacation, so I can spend the entire time with you.”
Cadence let out a Squee. “Congratulations! I can imagine how happy you must felt.”
“Apart from the birth of our son, it was the happiest moment I had ever in my life.”
September 1943
“Is this a hospital?” Shining Armor looked around.
“Congratulations! It’s a boy.” A doctor said. “How shall we call him James?” “How about John? As a memory for my missing brother.” That sounds nice.” Lena and I had tears of joy in our eyes.
Everybody and pony had also tears in their eyes. Even the Guards. It was so nice to see Lena and John in color again, instead of black and white as it was in the photos and pictures. Lena with her brown hair and green eyes, and John, also called little John with green eyes and blonde hair. „The birth of a child is always something nice, isn’t it?” I asked.
Everyone nodded. Velvet said with tears, “This reminds me so much when our Foals were born.” Julia and Sarah said the same.
“This must be the happiest moment in your life!” Cadence looked with joy over the newborn child. “Yes it was.”
A few Days after John’s birth, I wrote a letter to Lucie and Lucas. They saw me now writing the Letter.
Dear Lucie and Lucas, I know it’s long that we haven’t seen each other, but I have something to tell you: I’m father now! We named our Son John. Since the Africa corps is no more, I will return to France. How were things over there? Sincerely, James.
“You really closed that French Family in your Heart.” Twilight was smiling.
“Yes I did. And you are no exception.” She blushed. “Back in France, I had to go through Training again. Was no problem since, I had experience from the First World War. I was a simple infantryman.”
“Looks like training ground.” A Guard looked around. Before I could confirm it, an officer spoke up.
“Gentlemen, welcome in France. Since you are here, we will check your basic training. We will focus on basic weapon skills but before that, we will check out your fitness. So run to these Sandbags.” I did as the officer told me. “Over the barricade! Over the pit! Up the ladder! Dive to prone in front of the wire! Crouch through, you idiots! Heads down! Well done. Not too much out of breath, I hope. Now move to the weapon station.” He commanded which I did.
“Wow. Impressive how good your stamina is.” Shining Armor had an impressed look on his face.
“I trained my stamina very often. A good stamina can save your life on the field.”
Now the officer explained the weapons. “This is the Mauser C96 pistol. Holds ten rounds and is, reloaded using clips. Free fire on the targets on the range.” I shot on all targets.
“Well done now move to the next station. This is the MP40 machine pistol. Fully automatic using a 32 round magazine. Cover is all important. Can hide you and save your life. Blind fire is the type of firing when you cannot see. Useful if you don’t wanna expose yourself. So use blind fire now and see what you can hit.” I did as ordered. “Well done. Now be more accurate and control your breathing. Free fire on the range, this time control you’re breathing. I controlled my breathing while firing.
“Good well done. Move on to the next station. This is the Mauser k 98 rifle. Single shot, bolt-action. Reloads using the 5 round clip. Obviously accuracy is improved if you aim properly down the sights. To be more accurate estimate the range while downing the sight. 300 meters is a good zero point for your rifle. Practicing the range and firing on the Targets.”
I estimated the range and fired. “Don’t forget to bolt the rifle after each shot Soldier. Much better. Bullets are affected by gravity. This is another reason to downing your sights or just aim high. Now fire again on the targets.” I did as ordered.
“Good well done. Now move on to the next station.” This is the MG 42. Bipod mounted to keep it steady. Use a 45 drum. Deploy the weapon in front of you. Good. The rate of fire is so high on this weapon that the barrel can overheat. If it overheat to far the barrel may burst. Making the weapon unusable, and you defenseless. Replace the barrel now.” I replaced the barrel. “Good. Open fire. Short bursts.”
Before my former self fired I turned to the children. “Cover your ears, this will be loud.” They obeyed.
The last station was the sharpshooter station, which where only little difference was from the standard rifle. Using the scope instead of the sight, loading one bullet at a time and firing from a standing crouch to prone position. The last lessons were the grenade pit and a lesson in close combat.
“Before you go, just remember that you can use your weapon in close combat melee. Hit the barrel with your weapon.” I stroked the barrel with the butt if my rifle. “Well done. Goodbye and good luck.” The officer said before I left.
“For a simple Rifleman, you were trained for many weapons.” Twilight was surprised.
“Well, that was for the case if I had to replace a fallen squad member. The Mauser k 98 was the standard rifle for the infantry. Slow rate of fire but packed a punch. The MP 40 was the standard Sub machine gun used by officers. The MG 42 was the Standard MG that replaced the MG 34. I must admit, that was a clever idea that the barrel can be replaced if it overheats. But I preferred rifles over submachine guns and MG’s.”
"Wasn’t the P38 the standard Pistol in the Wehrmacht?” Hans asked.
“Yes it was. It should replace the P08 which was used by officers. The Mauser C96 was used by Soldiers behind the front lines and military truck drivers. But it was my favorite pistol. I liked the Schnellfeuer version of it. After my training I was sent to Paris again.”
France, Paris 1944
Back in Paris, I was greeted by Feld marshal Rommel again. I was wearing a Heer uniform with a patrol cap. “Ahh, Private James, good to see you again.” He smiled. I saluted. “At ease. Are you feeling good?”
“Yes Sir. Despite the good times I had with my family, it is good to be back again.”
“Glad to hear it. Congratulations for becoming a father.” When he said that I was confused.
“If I may ask Sir, how did you…”
“Know? Well, you are well known for what you do for your comrades and civilians. And I have my contacts.”
“Thank you, Sir.”
“You are a good Soldier. And you will become a good father, no doubt. Stay that way.” He gave me a pat on my shoulder. I was surprised about how he acted. He was like he did know me for years as a friend. “Oh, and if you wondering why I act like this: You have earned my respect for what you do. But for now, enjoy your time in Paris while you can. The Allies could attack any time now.”
"I will Herr Feld marshal.”
“Wow, I never thought that you were so close to the famous Desert fox.” Hans was amazed.
“Neither, did I. But it was a moment I never forgot.”
“Shouldn’t you suppose to wear a helmet instead of a cap?” Twilight asked with curiosity.
“We were wearing caps when Helmets were not fitted for the situation. But I was wearing a cap most of the time because it suited more to my uniform and disturbed not so much when I had to run.”
“Oh, ok.”
Now we heard an engine of a car. A Kübelwagen was driving by. The Radio played Feeling good from Nina Simone. Once the Driver stopped in front of the house of Lucie and Lucas, I stepped out. “Thanks for the ride, Müller.”
“Anytime buddy,” He replied before driving off.
“That is the famous Kübelwagen, right?” Twilight asked again.
“Yes, one of the most used vehicles of the Wehrmacht apart from the Opel Blitz.”
I knocked on the Door. Lucas opened it. “Yes, how can I help…” he cut himself off as he recognized me.
“Hello my little Friend, I’m back.”
“James!” he hugged me “Mom, James is back!” he called out.
Lucie came out of the kitchen. “James, is it really you?”
“Yes, didn’t you got my letter?”
“I got it. After all what happened, I just couldn’t believe it. Anyway, I’m glad to hear it that you are a father now.”
“I’m too!” Lucas added.
“May I come in?” I asked.
“You are welcome here anytime,” She answered. We sat down in the living room. Lucie brought some Tea.
“So, what happed while I was gone?” Lucie had a worried look on her face.
“Well, the Wehrmacht soldiers treated us very well. But when the SS came and the Resistance, everything was getting worse. The SS und Gestapo took people away; we heard nothing from them ever again or took people as hostages and executed them. I’m glad that we weren’t taken yet. After my Husband died in a car crash shortly after my boy was born, I was afraid that I will lose him too.”
I let a tear escape. “Sorry to hear that.”
“That is so terrible. Why would someone do something like this?" Cadence asked.
“The SS and Waffen SS and the Gestapo were all fanatic. They were known for their brutality towards civilians and captured soldiers. Merciless and ruthless as well. I deployed an immediately dislike for them, once I heard how they were. What I still remember is, when you look in the eyes of a member of the Gestapo, SS or Waffen SS, that they showed no sign of emotion.”
Before anyone or pony could say something, we were interrupted. ”Mommy! They are coming for us!” Lucas pointed out of the window. A Gestapo cruiser was driving by.
“Oh non. Oh god no! Please James, you must help us!” Lucie begged.
“Don’t worry; do you have a back door?”
"Oui.”
“Good. I will do what I can to distract them as long as possible. Now go!” I ordered.
“We are very grateful for that. I wish you good luck. Au revoir.” Lucie said before she and Lucas prepared to left.
The Cruiser stopped in front of the house. A Gestapo agent and a SS Soldier left the car. I opened the Door. “Hello Sir!” I saluted the Soldier with a military salute. “I’m Private Günther how can I help you?” The SS Soldier saluted me with the German salute.
“Greetings, I’m SS-Scharführer Dieter Amsel and this is Gestapo Agent Heinrich Bauer.” Bauer saluted too. He was wearing glasses, a fedora and a black trench coat. Dieter was wearing an officer Hat and also a black trench coat. Both had blue eyes and blond hair. No sign of emotion.
I heard a whimper behind me. Twilight, Paul, and Lukas were all scared from the two men but their mother comforted them as best as they could.
“Is Lucie Marchand here? We have some Questions for her.” Bauer said in a cold and emotionless tone. “I’m sorry; she is not here at the moment. She went shopping with her Son.” I lied. I feared that none of them believed my answer. “If you say so we will try it later again. Heil Hitler!” Dieter said before he and Bauer were getting in the cruiser and left. “That was close.” I said to myself.
“Whoa, you are right, these guys are really emotionless. Our Guards are nothing compared to them. No offence”. Cadence looked over a guard who had problems of hiding his fear.
Even he was scared of the two Men. “It’s alright.”
“You deserve a Medal for this! Saving a family from her doom!” Shining Armor had proud in his voice.
“It was a dangerous move. But you have a good heart. And it was very brave from you to do this.” Celestia had also proud in her voice.
“Thanks, your highness. A few days later I had got a message from Lucie.”
Now my Memory showed me patrolling the Streets of Paris. The invasion hasn’t begun yet. My Rifle was shouldered. A citizen was passing by while giving me a note and an envelope. “Psst. For youm monsieur,” He spoke quietly. “Thank you. Now get out of here.” I read the Note.
We managed to escape on the countryside to friends who gave us shelter. We will be always grateful for your help. I and Lucas have also a little gift for you. It is in the envelope. We wish you luck that you survive the war and hope that you can return to your family. Maybe we will see each other again. Lucie.
I smiled. They were safe. I checked the envelope. The gift was a locket. I opened it. It showed a Family photo of Lucie and Lucas. Under it was written: Thank you for everything.
Apart of the Pocket watch my brother gave me, it was the nicest gift I had ever got.
“It was a very nice Idea of them to give you this. I’m also very proud of you. James.” Twilight smiled.
It warmed my heart every time I saw her smiling. “How do you, got your second award?”
“Remember the Soldier that drove the Kübelwagen?” She nodded.
“I saved him while under heavy fire.” Everybody was startled by a whistle that turned into an explosion.
“What was that?!” Jonas was holding his ears.
“Artillery.” I responded,
Now we were on a battlefield. A Small Squad of Wehrmacht Soldiers tried to hold their position. It consisted of me armed with my trusty K98, Müller, our Squad leader armed with a MP 40 and two Riflemen. One was armed with a Gewehr 43 while the other had the new MP 44. Müller was firing a mounted MG 42. I and my comrades were behind Müller behind some sandbags. But it was like the American Soldiers had endless waves of Soldiers.
“There are too many off them! We must retreat or we will be overrun, Squad leader!” Müller shouted.
“I know, Squad, retreat!” The Squad Leader ordered. But as were about to do It, I heard a loud bang. Müller was hit.
“Medic!” he called out while blood came out of his chest.
I called out, “Cover me!”
“You heard him. Covering fire”! My Squad covered me, while I dodged gunfire and explosions. Once I reached Müller, I tried to stop his bleeding.
“If I will not make it, tell my wife I love her.” He managed to say with a weak voice. Once I had bandaged him, I gave him an adrenalin syringe.
“Don’t worry, you going to be fine. I have seen much worse wounds." My hands were covered in blood but as a Medic I was used to it. I picked him up to carry him to safety. One of the riflemen shouted, “Take that, you wretched Yankees! No offence, James.” He apologized as he remembered that I was of American blood. But it didn’t upset me.
“The Enemy is retreating!” My Squad leader shouted as a Tiger tank was driving up and fired at the US Soldiers. They all had no Weapons against the Tiger. My comrades cheered.
“Well done Private. For this act of bravery, you deserve the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross,” The Squad leader said.
“I never leave a comrade behind, Sir,” I replied to my Squad leader.
“I know and I respect that. You two, bring Müller to the Field hospital.” He ordered my comrades.
“Yes, Sir!” They responded.
“Easy now,” Hans said as they careful took him from me. “I owe you one James. Hey! Catch me later, I'll buy you a beer!” “I will, Müller.” I washed the blood off my Hands with a bottle of water.
“I never saw a Tiger Tank in action. If he hadn’t come, your squad would be overrun.” Jonas looked at the Tank.
“Yes, that is a Tiger Tank. One of the most feared tanks of the war. A Legend. 120 mm front armor, 80 mm at the side and the rear. As Main weapon an 8, 8 cm-KwK 36. As secondary two MG 34’s. A dangerous enemy.”
“Interesting, that is how a Tiger Tank looks like.” Twily inspected the tank with interest.
“This is also how you got the Knight’s Cross? Your wife must be very proud of you back then.” Julia was impressed.
Back at home again, now with my second award, my wife greeted me. “I’m so proud of you. For everything you did. You deserved the award. But please, be careful and do not end like the others.”
"I’m always careful, my dear wife.”
“What did she mean with this?” Shining Armor asked confused.
“The Knight’s cross was the highest award you could get. The NS Propaganda treated Knight's Cross Holders as Heroes of the Nation. This resulted in that simple low ranked soldiers like me, were sent to suicide missions or to the hardest fronts. This resulted also that many died. I had the luck that I was spared from this.” Before he could reply, we heard a baby voice.
“Daddy!” It was John. He was able to walk but was not able to speak right yet.
“Hey little buddy, how’s it going?” I asked happy.
“Daddy! Mommy!” was all he could say.
“Our Pride, our baby, our Son.” Lena was happy too. I booped his nose which caused him to giggle.
It was a nice Memory. Cadence looked at the scene with a wide grin. “He is such a sweet boy. You loved him with all your heart right?” I nodded.
“James, I have something for you.” My wife gave me a small Family photo so it fitted in my pocket. “When you are on the front, you can still remember us.”
“Thank you.” I kissed her. Then Müller knocked on the door.
“Hello my Friend. Now... about that beer I owed ya!" He was completely recovered. He had only bandages around his chest.
“I know a good bar not far from here. This must be celebrated!”
“I'll be right back, Müller.” I said goodbye to my wife. Before I went into Müllers car, I saw through the Window, that my wife brought little John into his bed and read him a bedtime story. I smiled and so did Müller. “You really care for your family.”
Now we saw the Bar, Müller mentioned.
Soldiers chatted with each other. One Soldier played a piano. Müller spoke up, “On James and his Family!” he gave me a Beer. “Thanks, I drink no alcohol.” “Ah a reasonable man. I respect that you want to be a good father. An alcohol-free for him.” He ordered. I give the piano player a tip “Yeah, I know that one.” He said. Then he played “ The Songless Nightingale“ . Everybody stood up and began to sing . Also a beautiful Memory.
“This reminds me when I hanged out with my friends,” Shining Armor commented.
“It was the last time that I saw my comrades or Müller. Müller was sent to the Eastern front. He never returned.”
Everybody had a sad look.
When the party was over, I was asked if I could drive, since I was the only one that was sober. Everybody tried to get in an Opel blitz before I drove off.
“What happened next, James?” Twilight had look on her face that said “Please tell me.”
“Did you read about the Battle of the Bulge?”
“You took part in the famous Battle of the Bulge?” She was excited.
“Yes I was. It was one of the last offensives on the western front.”
Ardennes 1944/1945
Now in winter uniform I had a conversation with my Squad members. All young recruits. None of them had fighting experience. Except me and my Squad leader.
“I don’t like it, that we are not allowed to make prisoners. It is against my Honor.”
“I know but orders are orders. But I respect your mercy to prisoners. It is also an Honor to have a Knight’s cross holder in our Squad,” One recruit said.
“So we are,” The other two recruits added.
“I know.”
“Squad, listen up!” Our Squad leader joined us.
“Sir.” We all said but he saluted me first before I could.
“At ease. We have order to assist in the Siege of Bastogne. Let’s move out. Oh before I forgot, we will NOT kill prisoners despite the orders from High command. We will show mercy, understand?”
“Yes, sir!” we all responded. I was letting out a sigh of relief. My Squad leader noticed that.
“Relieved Private?”
“Yes, Sir. It is just, I don’t like to do such cruel things. I’m not a coldblooded bastard as the Waffen SS are.”
“Me neither. That’s why I decided to not follow that order.” He explained before we all entered a Halftrack.
“What does he mean with that order?” Twilight asked innocent.
“Well Twily, we had order to only take prisoners if the ‘tactical Situation’ allowed it. Otherwise, we should kill them. I never followed that order.”
“How could someone order such a terrible thing?”
“Our Führer who was insane at this point. I didn’t want to scare you.”
“It’s ok; I just didn’t expect something like this.” She was now comforted by her mother who rubbed her back.
“I’m here Twilight, there’s not need to be scared.”
“Thanks mom but why saluted your Squad leader you first?”
“Knight’s cross holders had to be saluted first regardless of their rank.”
Now the battle began. Our Halftrack was under heavy fire. My Squad stayed crouched to avoid being hit. But then an explosion hit us. The force was enough to throw me out of the Halftrack in a ditch. I suffered Shellshock, my vision was blurry. Once it returned, I saw that my Squad was now in cover behind the now disabled Halftrack. They retreated without noticing me. I was too weak to follow them or to call out to them. A splitter was in my left leg, so I couldn’t get up. The Family photo was fallen out of my pocket. I grabbed it and looked at it. “I’m sorry Lena.” I managed to say before I lost consciousness.
“You poor. You don’t deserve to be left behind. Not after all you did.” Paul was close to tears.
“My comrades had not noticed in the heat of the battle that I was missing. I thought it’s over. But it wasn’t.”
It was night when I regained consciousness. Nothing but silence. I putted the Photo back in my pocket and tried to pull the splitter out. It was painful but successful .I putted a bandage around my leg. I had only my pistol. A Mauser C96 Model 712. I limped in the near forest completely lost.
It didn’t take long until I heard a voice. It was young and in German. It also sounded like the Recruit that spoke to me earlier. I could not exactly hear what he said but it sounded if he was blaming himself. I called out, “Hello? Is here somebody?” Suddenly silence, then a loud, “Identify, yourself!” “Private Günther!” “Private Richtofen!” he shouted back before he came closer and I could see him.
He was no older than 18. His uniform was dirty. It was the Recruit who spoke to me before we moved out. I holstered my pistol. He lowered his rifle once he saw me.
“Is it really you? The Knight’s cross holder from our Squad? It’s really you. I thought you died!”
“Hell no, it takes more to finish me off. How did you end up here?” Now he had a guilty look on his face.
“When our Squad retreated, we noticed that you were missing. We wanted to come back for you, but we were ambushed by American paratroopers. I’m the only survivor. I panicked and managed to flee, the others were all shot. I should have died with then instead of fleeing. I’m such a coward!” He broke out in tears.
“Listen, you are not a coward, you did the right thing. Surrendering or retreating is no shame. Or No consent of failure but a away to keep soldiers alive, Regardless what the Führer orders. You are still young. You are not as experienced as I am. It’s ok buddy.” I comforted him. “But now, we should find shelter.”
“Thank you. Let me help you.” he assisted me as he saw my wound.
While we were looking for shelter, he asked me, “How did you survive that long?”
“Using cover as good as I could, duck when I had to and keep moving when trying to switch cover or position. But most of all when in a Squad, work as a team not alone. And the faith, that I can see my wife and child again. Sometimes it is just luck.”
He opened his mouth to reply but closed it as he saw a camp fire. “Are this friendly’s or foes?” he pointed out.
“There’s only one way to find out.” But as we came closer I saw two US Soldiers. One was wounded. Richtofen stepped on a twig. This alerted them. The other Soldier drew his rifle and shouted, “Who’s there?”
“Please don’t shoot, my friend is wounded.” Richtofen begged with English that you could clearly hear his German accent.
“You will not be harmed. Step into the light where I can see you.” The Soldier ordered. We stepped into the light. “Great, Jerrys!” he complained.
“Stop complaining and ask if they have medical supplies. I won’t make it without medical attention, John!” the wounded soldier was holding chest.
“Alright Miller. But one wrong move and you are dead. Is one of you a Medic?” John asked us. I raised my hand and began to look over Miller. He had the same wound as Müller so I knew what to do. After I did my work, John began to look over me.
“You look familiar to my grandfather.” That surprised me.
“Was his name John?”
“Yes, my father named me after him. He told me that he went missing in the First World War.” No doubt it was my nephew. My parents never wrote that my brother had a family.
“Did you know that he had a brother?” I asked.
“Yes he went to Germany, why are you…” John cut himself off once he realized that his uncle was in front of him. “No way. This can’t be.”
“Do you need a proof?” I showed him my pocket watch with the photo in it.
“Uncle James? I never thought I would meet you.”
“Me too. Do you want to tell me about your life?” There isn’t much to tell.”
He told me that his father was a high ranked officer in the US army. But he had barely Time for him so John decided to join the Army, so he could have more time with his father. John was born 1924. “So how did you end up here, uncle?”
“It’s a long story.” I told him when I served in the First World War, about the accident, my Family and so. I showed him my Family photo and the locket from Lucie.
“Incredible,” His mind was blown from my story. “But I’m very proud of you. Saving a Family from the Gestapo and founding a Family. Your Son looks very cute.”
“Thanks. How did you end up here?”
“My Squad was attacked by Waffen SS Soldiers. Only I and Miller who was hit escaped.” He explained.
Miller was only 20. His mother died as he was born. His father was an alcoholic. Miller went into the Army to escape his father. I didn’t blame him.
“Do you want a cigarette? Calms the nerves.” Miller asked me.
“No thanks, I don’t smoke.”
“Even if it makes ill, whatever.” He lit a cigarette. Richtofen started to write a letter.
“You’re Girlfriend?” I asked.
“My mother. I write her, that I won’t study at Heidegger this winter. I can’t die.”
“Good for you, Kraut,” Miller commented.
“No, I mean, my mother… beard me when she was 48. It’s a wonder. She raised me all by herself. A Simple woman. And she did go to the Wehrersatzkommando and said; that I am her only son and that I must study and can’t be conscripted.”
“Brave woman.” She earned my respect for that, Miller's and John's as well.
“She was detained for a whole night. For delinquency. A woman, 66 years old. Do you understand?”
“How is your name, kid?” John asked.
“Martin.” I was touched by Martins story. And so were the US Soldiers.
”Listen Kid, the War will be over soon, and I wish you luck that you survive the war. You deserve something better than this,” Miller spoke to him. “Oh I forgot, our Squad leader wanted to give you this letter.” Martin gave it me. As I read it, I let out a tear of Joy.
Dear Jessie, I don’t know when we will see each other again, but I wanted to tell you that your Son really likes the story’s I read to him. I’m sure that he will like it to read when he gets older. Don’t worry about us; Volkach is spared from the air raids. Your wife Lena
“Uncle, can you play harmonica?” John was holding a harmonica in his hand.
“Yes I can.” I took the harmonica and played.
Twilight sniffled. “This is so nice yet so sad. Meeting your Nephew. And then this Story from your comrade. Why was he in Army anyway when he wanted to study?” She had a mix of sadness and anger in her voice.
“He was drafted. All men aged 18 to 25 where suitable to fight. Later it was raised to an age of 45. You had also the choice to volunteer for the Wehrmacht. I choice to volunteer because I could choice what kind of soldier I wanted to be. But in the end stages of the War, we had Personnel and material shortage. This resulted, that old Men and even Children had to fight.”
Twilight’s family was shocked by this. “How can someone do something terrible like this?!” Velvet was shocked.
“The Führer was in control of everything. Everybody who was against him was put to silence. There was also Resistance in Germany but the Gestapo had great success in destroying it. But much worse was, even if only you resisted, your Family was also put into ‘custody’ or executed."
Now even Celestia and her Guards had their mouths open in shock. “This is terrible.” Cadence cried only to comfort by Shining Armor.
“Still it is nice, that you were able to make Friends with your enemies.”
“This happened very often when the belligerents were too tired to fight, or wanted to recover wounded or fallen Soldiers. Or like in this case when we had to work together, as we were cut off from our allies.”
Germany March 1945
A few Days before Würzburg was bombed, I saw my wife and Son for the last time. “They need more Personnel in the hospital in Würzburg. I was ordered to help out for a while. Since you are back on the front in a few days, I have no choice but to take John with me. But on the bright Side, I can visit some friends over there.”
“I know Lena. Just be careful, I don’t want to lose you too. Hans is in captivity of the Western forces, Müller is presumed dead and Richtofen was sent to the Eastern front.”
“Don’t worry about me; Würzburg isn’t as important for the industry as Dresden or Augsburg.” She kissed me.
“Goodbye, my love.” I called out while she and John left.
“You loved your Family with all your heart. You were also worried about their safety.” Hans was also close to tears like Cadence and the rest was.
”If I had known what would happen, I had warned her.”
“Was your friend Müller deceased or still alive? Lukas asked me.
“When the Russians took prisoners, we heard nothing from them which leaded to the conclusion that they were fallen. The last Prisoners were released in 1955.”
“Now I get it.”
16th March 1945
I was far away from Würzburg but close enough that I could watch everything.
The children were startled by a loud explosion. “What was that? “Twilight regretted that Question as she saw the firestorm. “Oh my…” She couldn’t believe what she saw. Explosions and Air raid sirens filled the Sky. The Children were covering their ears. “Look away, sweetie.” Velvet hugged her Daughter.
Even she couldn’t bear it. “I think it is better if we skip this, ok?” Celestia was also startled by this horrible thing. Before we were going to the day after it, I saw the Volkssturm member who spoke to me.
“There’s nothing we can do. We can only hope and pray that your family will survive this.”
17th March 1945
Now, we saw me looking for my family in the burned down city. Everywhere were, debris. Once I reached the hospital, I broke out in tears and cried uncontrollably. The Hospital was completely destroyed. A corpse of a Nurse who was holding a baby in her arms was in the debris which I immediately identified as my wife and Son. Though they were burned, they were still recognizable. I prayed that their death was quick and painless.
I tried my best to not to cry in front of the children, so I buried my face in my hands and looked away. I felt something soft and warm around my legs. As I opened my Tear-filled eyes, I saw Twily on her hind legs hugging me tight. Paul and Lucas did this too. Even Celestia putted a wing over me. “You comforted me and cheered me up when I was sad, now it is my turn!” Twilight looked up to me.
“I now it is hard, but we can’t change what happened in the past. I wish until this day I hadn’t lost my sister.” She, her Guards, Cadence, my Friends and the Twilights were crying.
“Thank you, your Highness.”
“I don’t want to make you sadder but what happened to you after this?” Hans asked still sad.
“As it couldn’t get any worse, I was in Berlin when the battle started.”
Berlin, April 1945
Berlin was a city of ruins. Explosions, Gunfire and Air raid Sirens could be heard from a distance. The Russians hadn’t, broke through our defenses yet. Still, Berlin was a Ghost town. At night, bombers attacked the city while the Flak towers tried to defend what was left. I had a conversation with a Soldier. “So was your wife able to get out of berlin?” I asked him.
“I don’t know. Non-essential communications are banned.”
“Well, no news is good news, right?”
“It’s no news, that’s all it is. I don’t want to think about it.”
“My Family is dead, so I have nothing to lose anymore. Still, I’m looking forward to the end of all this.”
“Me too. Sorry for your loss,” He replied. But then a fanatic Soldier came.
“Soldier of Germany! You should be grateful to fight!” I disagreed with this.
“It’s hardly a fight anymore, Allies from the west, Russians from the East…”
“This is not the time for such talk. Keep it together, Soldier.”
“But we can’t win on two fronts!”
“You’re a disgrace!” But I didn’t care.
I had lost everything I used to love. My Friends and my Family. I had lost the will to fight. Still, I didn’t want to die in a battle that was pointless or end up in Russian captivity. As we patrolled through the Streets, I heard a baby crying. It came from a building that was surprisingly completely intact. This was rare. Next to the building were hanged civilians and Soldiers.
They all had signs. “The Soldier can die the deserter must die. I had to die.”
“This is horrible.” Shining Armor looked at the signs.
“But real. For the Führer, surrendering was not an option. Instead, he ordered to defend the city to the last Men. Everyone who said that the war is lost or refused to fight ended like this.”
I looked into the building. A Woman tried to calm down her two babies. She looked up to me, once she succeeded. “You don’t like you have still the will to fight.”
“You are correct”
“Can you do me a favor?” I nodded. “Please, bring my Sons to safety. I don’t want that they die in this battle,” She begged. She reminded me of a mix of my Wife and Lucie. She was close to tears.
“Yes, I'll do it.” She hugged me.
“Thank you! After my husband died on the Eastern front, I didn’t know what to do! I will always be grateful for that!”
“Relax, Ma’am. First, we need an escape plan.”
“I think I can help with that.” We turned around to see the Soldier I spoke earlier today. “I got a Radio transmission. A Plane is supposed to land tomorrow not far from here. If you can make it, the Pilot can bring you to safety,” He explained.
“Are you sure that this information is not false?”
“There was a lot of static. I only understood something with Plane, landing, tomorrow. We can only hope that the information was right.”
“Wow, despite your depression, your heart managed to win over it.” Jonas was impressed.
“What can I say, despite my lost, I didn’t want to die in a pointless battle or end up in the hands of the Russians.”
Now it was night. My Squad was a mix between me, the Soldier who had the Idea with the plane, an Old man and a boy. “This is outpost 6! We are being overrun! The Enemy has broken through! Repeat the…” The radio message ended abrupt with static.
“Now it’s only a matter of time.” I said.
“And? We can still win!” The boy was eager to fight. “How should I look into the eyes of my mother if I don’t fight?”
“Just be glad that you can look in her eyes at all!” The old man replied.
“You are just a Coward!” The boy responded. I looked at him.
“How old are you?”
“12.”
“You are a child. The Russians will send you home.”
“I heard from this fanatic guy, that there is a secret underground warehouse full of German weapons. He couldn’t say where it is or if it is real.” The Soldier interrupted.
“Really? Does it matter? Defeat is imminent.” I was not convinced. Our Conversation was interrupted by a sound of an engine.
“Sounds like a tank.”
“One of ours?” The boy asked.
“I don’t think the Russians are that fast.”
“I don’t know, kid,” I replied. But to our bad luck it was a T-34.
“T-34!” Panzerfaust, schnell!” The Soldier shouted. The T-34 fired but missed us. The Boy grabbed a Panzerfaust, aimed at the tank and fired. The T-34 was destroyed but was able to fire again before it was destroyed.
He missed again but the explosion caused debris to fall on me. It made my vision blurry. I felt that someone tried to drag me before my vision went black.
“You didn’t lie. Children had to fight?! At such a young Age?!” Cadence was angry.
“They and old men were the last reserves Germany had.”
“Was that a Panzer Faust the boy fired?” Lukas asked.
“Yes. It was such a simple design. So simple that everyone, even Children or untrained civilians could use it.”
The next morning, I woke up on a couch. It was the same building where I met the woman. “Ugh my head. Why me?” I held my head in pain.
“Ah, you are awake!” It was the woman and the soldier.
“What happened?”
“After the debris fell on you, Infantry attacked. We managed to stop it, but the old man died. The boy fled. But he deserves to live not to die in this hell. I must admit, you are really tough. But enough talking, you got a plane to catch,” The Soldier explained.
As I was about to leave, the woman called out, “Wait! Before you go, can you tell me you’re Names?”
“Just call me James.”
“My name is Wolfgang.” The Soldier said.
The woman gave both boys a kiss. “Goodbye my Children, mommy loves you.” I took one baby, Wolfgang the other. The plane a Fieseler Fi 156 “Storch” was landed on a field, ready for take-off.
“You made it! Schnell, get in!” the Pilot shouted quiet not to wake the boys who were sleeping.
“What are you doing here?” I asked.
“Actually bring supplies. But after Wolfgang told me what he and you were planning, I decided to help you.”
“Thank you for your help.”
“You don’t need to thank me, Men like me joined up to fight for Germany's future. And we'll fight to the last man for it if we must.” We gently laid the Boys in the plane.
“I will stay behind.” Wolfgang was about to leaving us.
“What are you doing?”
“You deserve a second chance after all you did. I will stay behind and buy you some time. Now go!”
I boarded the plane and the plane took off. “Do we have enough fuel?”
“Don’t worry. It is one of the last planes which, is fully fueled. I can bring you to London. Leave the talking to me when we arriving. You should catch some sleep. It will be very stressful in London.” Before I pulled my cap over my eyes, I looked out of the window. The Soviets had noticed us, but it was too late as they fired at us.
“You are a life-saver. It was also a very nice from the pilot to help you.” Twilight was sad yet proud.
“Thanks for the compliment. In London, I was brought into the USA and into a cell. The boys were brought into an orphanage. But thanks to my Nephew, I was released quickly.”
10th May 1945 USA Dallas
I was in a cell. Germany was fallen. I hadn’t heard any news what they will do with me. The Door opened. A Guard spoke to me, “Hey Kraut, visit for you.” Visit? Who could visit me? It was John.
“Uncle, long time not see.”
“What are you doing here?” “I’m here to tell you, that you can go. My father has arranged everything. Besides, I’m not the only one who wanted to see you.” He stepped aside to reveal Lucie and Lucas.
“We travelled all the way here to see our favorite German.” Lucas was happy to see me.
“But we also want to give our condolence.” Lucie added.
“A generous move from your Nephew.” Julia escaped a tear.
“After Germany was defeated, I lived with John’s family. They accepted me. They even treated me like I was a real member of it. I helped families in Germany with CARE packages. I returned to Germany in 1950 after the economic miracle came.”
“What happened to your comrades and the two children?” Paul asked.
“Well, Martin was shot by a sniper, Müller died in Russian captivity and Wolfgang was executed after he helped me. Only Hans, my former copilot survived. He watched my home, until I returned, after he was released. As for the Children, they were adopted from a young pair that was similar to me and my wife.”
“Did you ever find out where this warehouse is or if was real?” Jonas was curious.
“I never found out. I didn’t care about this story anyway back then.”
“Yet it is interesting if it was real or only a rumor.” Hans added.
USA Dallas 1950
I knocked on the Door on the house where the pair lived. A young woman opened it. “How can I help?”
“Good day Ma’am, my name’s James I wanted to look after your sons.”
“Ah, you must be John’s Uncle. Come inside, he explained everything to us already. Oh, how rude from me, name’s Ashley. Ashley Connor.”
“Pleasure.” She leaded me to the living room. “Honey, would you please come, we have visit!” she called out.
“Yes, my dear?” a young man walked in. “Greetings, name’s Michael. And you are?”
“John’s Uncle. My real name is Jessie but most people call me with my nickname James.”
“Ah, the man who brought our adopted Sons here. Let me guess: You wanted to look after them before you are going. I promise you, they are in good hands.” As I looked him into his eyes, I saw that he was honest.
“We named them, Martin and Toby. They are sleeping right now. But we will tell them the truth when they are old enough.” Ashley promised me. “Did you found out what happened to their mother?” I let out a sigh.
“After I boarded the plane, an SS officer killed her for this. I found this out in an allied report.”
“Our condolence. But we must accept what has happened and move on.”
“I know. Have a nice day.” I leaved knowing that Martin and Toby could live a happy life.
“A nice Pair. Young and full of love.” Cadence smiled.
“Yes. After my visit, I went to German again.”
Germany 1950
I, now wearing a suit with hat, was leaving the Train station in Volkach. Hans, also wearing a suit greeted me. “I never thought I would see you again.”
“Ey!!!”
“Oh!!!!”
“Look at this. You haven’t changed a bit! You look good in this suit.”
“Thanks, Hans. You look good too. What are you planning to do now?”
“Study at the University. And you?” “I think I will earn my money as Auxiliary worker until I found a better job. Being a Soldier is the only good thing I can do. After my Family died, I don’t know how I continue with my life.”
“Sorry for your loss. But chin up. You’re alive. And you cheated death so often. Besides, you are one of the most decorated soldiers of the war. When I was in the prison camp, many prisoners and guards spoke about you. Despite your loss, you should enjoy your life. Maybe you will adopt a child or marry again to come over your loss. Or a miracle will happen and cheer you up.”
“Thanks man.”
“Anytime. Oh, I forgot, I have a Welcome gift for you.” He led me to a Brand new WV Käfer.
“Wow, thanks. How were you able to buy this?”
“I have a friend in one of the factories that owned me something.”
“So how’s my place?”
“Like I told you on the phone – it’s just like you left it. Here are the keys.”
“The death of your family hit you really hard.” Velvet wiped a tear out of her eye.
“It has. I never came over it until your daughter came into my life.”
“Where are we now?” Twilight looked around until she found a note. She started to read “For: Herr Jessie Günther. Address: Königstrasse 12. Barbital 1 mg. For depression. Take as directed. Date: Sep. 1950. Doctor: Dr. Bernhard Hirsch. Reg. number 73629.”
As she looked up she saw a man on a desk, looking at a Family album. She recognized this man as me. “This is so sad.”
“When I returned home, I deployed a strong depression. Still, I took part on the worship every year on the 16th march and visit the grave of my wife and Son.”
Now we were on a graveyard. I was holding a small bouquet of white roses. I kneeled down in front of the graves of my son and Wife. “R.I.P. Lena Günther Beloved Wife and Mother 1898-1945”
“R.I.P John Günther Beloved Son 1943-1945”
“I miss you so much!” I put the bouquet of flowers in front of the grave of my wife. “I couldn’t protect you! I’m so sorry! But still l love you with my heart. As for my Son: I wish I had longer the feeling of being a father. But I can only hope that your death was Quick and painless. Auf wiedersehen, my Family.” I slowly stood up and walked away. I sobbed and cried.
As I saw this memory, I was trying my best to hold my tears. Again, everyone cried and Twily hugged my leg. “Sad James? Njet! I do not tolerate this! Must cheer you up.” She formed a hand with her magic and booped my nose. I giggled.
“You really learn fast.”
“Even if it’s hard to live as a widower, you shouldn’t blame yourself.” Jonas putted a hand on my shoulder.
“I know. It was then part of the depression.”
“I feel that there are only two memories left.” Celestia also tried to hold her tears.
“Wait! Before we continue, what happened to your friends and your nephew?” Lukas asked.
“He had the misfortune that he was deployed when the Korea war started. He was one of the first US soldiers who lost their lives. Hans suffered a heart attack shortly after I met him in Volkach. Lucie and Lucas died on their way home as their ship sunk.”
“You and your relatives have really bad luck, when it comes to life and Friends.”
“You don’t say, Hans.”
Germany 1955
“This is when we met when the Bundeswehr was founded, right?” I nodded.
I shared my Room with Hans and Jonas. We began to introduce ourselves.
“Jessie Günther but you can call me James.”
“Hans König”.
“Jonas Walter. Do you want to tell is about your life, James?”
“Long story.” I told them about my origin, and my service in WW1 and WW2.
“Wow, a veteran and a Knight’s cross holder. I must say it is an Honor to have you as a comrade.” Hans was impressed.
“I hope you haven’t forgotten how to shoot.”
“Oh yeah? Watch this.” I walked to the shooting range and grabbed an m1 grand. I controlled my breathing and fired at the targets. Every shot hit. “Impressive. Good that you are on our Side. I didn’t want to have you as an enemy in a firefight.”
“I believe that from you.”
Hans wanted to load his rifle, only to pinching his finger. “Ow! Dammit!”
“That is the problem with this American rifle. Back in the War, many of our Soldiers had this too, when they used captured m1s. Do you need a sticking plaster?”
“No, it’s alright.”
“If I may ask do you have a Family, Hans?”
“Yes I have. A Wife and a Son. He was born last year. We named him Paul. And you Jonas?” He scratched his neck nervously and blushed.
“Well, I have a crush on someone. It is a beautiful woman called Sarah. We dated but I’m too shy to ask her to marry me.”
“As a medic, should I give you something against lovesickness?” He gave me a not amused look.
“No thanks. Someday, I will manage to do it. Why you joined the army?”
“I was a Soldier my whole life. I can’t image another job. Besides, Germany needs an army after the Korea war, right?”
“You bet! I joined the army to make my wife proud. And to protect her if she is threatened or if a war breaks out.” “I-I-I joined the army to impress my girlfriend,” Jonas managed to say still nervous.
“Good luck, Tiger. Hey James, do you have a Family?” As I was about to reply, an officer walked in.
“Achtung!” we stood at attention. “At ease Soldiers. I have news for you. We need men at another Base. Private König and Walter, you will be transferred. Meet me in 30 Minutes. You stay here, Private James. Dismiss.”
“Barely known each other and then this. We will see each other soon or later for sure.” I was convinced.
“It was nice to know you James, bye!” Hans waved as he and Jonas leaved.
“So you joined the army only to impress me?” Sarah looked at her Husband who had an embarrassment look on his face. “Chin up; it was a good idea from you back then.” Jonas blushed.
Are you all ready, to watch the last memory?” Celestia asked. Everyone nodded. I knew what it was. My last Memory was my time with Twilight.
Germany 1960
Everyone saw me as I took a walk in the Rain. “Does the Rain not bother you?” Cadence asked me.
“I like it when it rained. Even as child I liked it. I took walks to feel better.”
“It is your most positive Memory I can feel.”
“Yes your Highness, and you will see why.” Twilight’s family watched as I found her and took care of her. Twilight’s family, Cadence and Celestia smiled. They were shocked and angry when the bullies came but smiled again, as I took care of them and comforted Twily.
They smiled all the time when I played with her and my friends. Between the two weeks, I had a conversation with Twilight as it was a hot day.
“Drink a lot, and stay inside or in the shadow. I don’t want that you get a Heat Stroke or a circulatory collapse by this heat out there.”
“Yes I will drink a lot. How did you manage the heat in North Africa?”
“Stay in the shadow, drink plenty of fluids throughout the day and not make a big effort.”
“Interesting James.”
“You have a big heart. You would make a good father. Your wife would be very proud of you.” Nightlight was smiling at the sight.
“End of the line. Time to go.” Celestia horn glowed white.
We were back in my house. “Well it’s time to say goodbye.” I hugged Twilight. We all cried.
“I’m going to miss you all so much!”
“We will too!” I, Hans, Jonas, Sarah, Julia, Paul and Lukas said together.
“But we will always in your Heart.” I pointed to her chest. “Thank you for taking care of me James.” “And I need to thank you Twily. You helped me to defeat my depression and make me happy again.”
“What happens now? Are you wiping out our memories and erase any evidence that Twilight was here?” Hans had still tears in his eyes.
“Of course not. That would be very rude of us. Instead you all will keep it. You are all trust worthy enough. Wiping out your Memory’s, would only break your hearts. And I would never break a heart of a child or someone with a traumatic past like you, Mr. James. You all kept my student safe and for that I will always be grateful.” Even Celestia cried.
“Thank you for taking care of our Daughter.” Velvet cried too.
“Can I keep the plush toys and the Dream catcher?” Twilight looked at her parents.
“Of course Sweetie. It wouldn’t be nice if we would prohibit it, wouldn't it?” Nightlight just smiled the Toys.
Well, time for us to go home.” Celestia prepared the spell.
“Wait! Can I use the bathroom before we go?”
“But of course, my dear student.” Twilight trotted to the bathroom. As we waited for her, Hans Radio began to go off.
“14 Adam, please come in.”
“Excuse me.” Hans walked into the kitchen to respond.
I couldn’t hear what he or the radio said, until I heard an enraged, “What?! Why didn’t you have me told this sooner?!”
As he returned Jonas asked, “What is wrong buddy?” “Do you remember that Gang we did encounter in the park two weeks ago?” “Yes why?” “Their Leader has broken out of Jail, and these idiots of prisons guards reported it way too late!” He took a deep breath to calm down.
“No doubt he wants revenge.” Jonas was worried. We heard a shatter of glass from the bathroom. I, Jonas and Hans stood up and sprinted to the bathroom. Hans kicked the door open, his weapon ready. Twilight was gone, the window was destroyed. We heard squealing tires.
“Dammit!” Hans was angry. A Note was on the ground.
“Mr. James, is everything alright?” Cadence ran in. She let out a gasp once she saw the broken window. “No. NO!” She collapsed to the ground crying.
“Cadence! What is wrong?” Shining Armor was worried. As he saw the window and the note, he knew immediately what happed. “This Leader foalnapped my Sister?!” He was angry yet worried but tried to hide it. However he exclaimed it so loud that his parents heard it.
“My poor filly!” Velvet sobbed while her husband tried to comfort her.
“We must act quickly.” Celestia stayed calm.
“Yes, but first we need a plan.”
Jonas tried to think. I had already a plan. “I will go. Alone and deal with this guy once and for all!”
Author's Note
Phew, that was the longest chapter I had wrtten so far.
Chapter 7 Showdown
“No James, it’s too dangerous to go alone.” Jonas tried to calm me down.
“He said that I should come alone. We can’t endanger Twilight's life. And I’m the one who brought her in this, and I will bring her out of this.”
“I can’t image that the Leader would hurt Twilight. He is just a 15 year old boy.” Julia was worried.
“If he was able to lead a small gang, and broke out of jail, then he is ready to hurt someone. But he doesn’t know who I am.”
“Ok, you win.” Hans was defeated.
“Take my pistol.” Jonas was about to give me his pistol.
“This won’t necessary, I have my own weapons.” Jonas looked confused at me. “Come with me.” Everyone followed me into the basement. A safe was hidden behind the Workshop. The Combination was the birth year of my Son. In the Safe were my K98 and my Mauser C96 when I was in the Wehrmacht.
“You kept your weapons from the War?” Hans was surprised.
“What do you think I’m using in the Gun club?”
“Oh…right.”
I switched to my Heer uniform. “I promise, I will bring your daughter back safe and sound.”
Velvet hugged me. “Thank you for your help. Just be careful.”
“Careful is my middle name.”
“Wait, I have something for you.” Hans walked to his car to get something. He came back with a Lightweight Ballistic Vest.
“Thanks.” I put it on and putted my cap on.
“A brave act from you.” Celestia was impressed.
“If somebody hurt my Family and friends, he will get to know me.” “Here, take some medicine. We don’t know in which condition she is.” Cadence and Shining Armor, casted a spell that gave me some syringes that contained Painkiller and sedative. “Thank you” “Good luck.” Nightlight said to me as I was getting in my car and drove away.
Perspective: Twilight Sparkle
I woke up with no clue where I was. I opened my eyes, only to realize that I couldn’t see. I panicked and tried to move and use magic but to no avail.
“Ah, you’re finally awake you little Freak! How are you doing with a bag on your Head?”
“Please take it off, I can’t breathe!” I begged.
“As you wish, you little brat.” Somepony took it off, and I gasped for air. I looked around. I was in an old and abandon Warehouse. I was restrained on a chair. My horn was intact, but a pipe surrounded it so I couldn’t use it. The boy who pushed me in the mud in the park was looking at me with a sadistic look.
“Please don’t kill me.” I feared that he would kill me, as I saw a pistol in his hand.
“Don’t worry; I won’t kill you… yet. I have plans for you, once I took care of your father. He will learn not to mess with me.” He slapped me so hard that blood came out of my nose and mouth. I let out a painful cry. Then he punched me in my chest. “Shut up! Save your strength for the great Showdown.” He laughed evil while he left me.
“I want Mommy! Or James!” I managed to say despite the blood coming out of my mouth. I cried quietly.
Perspective: James
It was evening when I arrived at the Warehouse It was still light. It was used by the Wehrmacht to storage Spare parts, ammunition, and weapons, but fell after the war into oblivion. The allies found no use in it. The Word Wehrmacht on the roof was still intact and readable.
I stepped out of my car and looked around. Nobody here .I approached the entrance careful and slowly. I carefully opened the door in case it was booby-trapped. Inside, the warehouse was empty. But I heard Twily crying. I slowly approached the direction where the crying, came until I saw her.
Restrained on a chair. She was bleeding from her nose and mouth. He will pay for this! “Not another step.” The Leader stepped into the light behind Twilight, a Luger pistol in his right hand. I aimed at him with my rifle.
“Drop your weapon!” I was enraged. He aimed at Twilight's head. “Oh no, you will drop your weapon, if you don’t want that I blow her brain out.”
“Easy, stay cool, man.” I raised my hands.
“Drop it!” I obeyed. “That was easy. Now listen up grandpa. I know that isn’t a costume. I contacted the Russians. They are interested in her. They pay me also a large sum for her.” This boy was insane. The Russians would never let him alive for this.
“Don’t you realize in what you brought yourself into it? The Russians will not pay a single cent. They would rather kill you to keep this a secret then to let you alive.” I explained.
“Shut up! You people call us ‘greaser’ in the USA for being not like you. But, I’m going to be rich! No have no idea about the Russians. The communism is the future. You think your uniform and awards impress me? They don’t. You won’t see how I’m going to be a hero!” he aimed at my chest and fired. I fell on the ground but the Vest did its job. The leader couldn’t see it as it was hidden under my uniform.
“James! NO!” “The leader aimed at Twilight's head again. “Now to us.”
“Please! Don’t do it!” She screamed in fear. Just like in her Nightmare. I had to act quickly. I drew my pistol and aimed at his hand. I didn’t want to kill him in front of Twilight. I fired, he screamed in pain. While he was holding his hand, I got up, rushed to him and injected the sedative.
“Ow, what did you inject me?”
"A sedative. Enough to put you out of the fight for a while.”
He collapsed but was still awake. “It’s… not… over… yet.” He spoke.
“Good job, buddy.” I turned around to see Hans. “I was ordered by Celestia to follow you unobtrusively in cause if something goes wrong.” He saw Twilight and turned to the Leader. “My god. You are lucky that we have no death penalty. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you do say can be—Oh forget it. After that, you are going into jail for a long time.” He led him away.
I used my knife to cut the rope. After that, I took a cloth from my pocket to stop the bleeding. Twilight cried. I will never forgive myself if she is traumatized from this. “Shh, it’s over. You are safe now.” “
I thought that you died!”
“No, I’m wearing a ballistic vest, see?” I showed her the vest and tapped it.
“It was so horrible! He hit and slapped me! I thought I will die!” She coughed blood.
“Here, drink some water.” After she took a sip, she was holding her chest. “I think he broke my rips. Every breath hurts!”
Broken rips? She’s lucky that she is still alive. A broken rip wasn’t so dangerous but from the blood she coughed up, it seemed that her lung was injured. I gave her the syringe with the painkiller. “This might sting a bit.”
“I hate syringes.” “It will only hurt for a second. And it will stop the pain.” A small “ow” came from her, after I injected the painkiller. "Keeping you in one piece's proving to be quite a challenge. Let’s get out of here.”
“I’m afraid that is not so simple.” I turned around my pistol drawn. It was one of Celestia Pegasus guards.
“And why?” I holstered my pistol. “I monitored everything from the Air. Disguised of course. Two Trucks of the Russians are on the way. We need to get the filly out of here.”
“In this condition, we will never get her out in time.” I looked around, until I saw a basement. “The only thing we can do is to get her into the basement. I will hold them off. You bring help.”
The Guard was about to disagree, but agreed as he saw Twilight and heard a Truck coming. “Ok, I will.”
“But hurry up!” I called after. I careful picked Twilight up, not to hurt her more and brought her down into the basement.
“The Reds are coming for me?” Twilight was scared. “Please don’t leave me!”
“For your own safety. I promised your Family that I will bring you back. And I will defend you until my last bullet.” Twilight cried even more. I wanted to comfort her but I know I had no time for it.
“I understand, but just be careful, James.”
“Careful is my middle name.” I said before I leaved the basement. There was a catwalk that leaded to the upper Windows where I had good cover and a good view of the Area. I walked up the Catwalk and into position behind the broken Window.
Now I waited. It didn't last long, until a Truck came from the North. A ZIL-164. The Driver had a Mosin-Nagant rifle. His co-driver had one too. They wore thick Uniforms with an ammunition belt around the torso. They were elite Soldiers. Had the misfortune of fighting them at the Battle of the Seelow Heights, before I was sent to Berlin. They were efficient and more accurate than normal Soldiers. They have also better eyes than normal soldiers which means that they can spot you faster than a normal Soldier can. (Apart from the officers who have even better eyes than the elites.) The Truck stopped and the Soldiers stepped out. 4 Elites exited the back of the Truck. They had all a PPSch-41. The Driver was the Squad Leader. He shouted in Russian, “Search for the Unicorn! Shoot everybody who gets in our way! No prisoners!”
I aimed at him and fired. Hit. He’s dead. “Sniper!” The co-driver shouted before I put him to rest. As I operated the bolt the other elites spotted me and immediately opened fire. Despite their accuracy, only grazing shots hit me, as the PPSch-41 wasn’t made for long range. I hit an elite Soldier that failed to get to cover. The other three were behind the Truck in cover. I waited until one of them tried peek out of cover to fire at me but I had the faster trigger finger. Two enemies and one bullet left. If they reach the entrance, it’s all over. There was no time to reload, as they were moving from cover to cover to the entrance. But the elites made the mistake of running close together. One behind the other. I aimed for the Head of the leader of the two. Exhale, fire. Hit, double kill. First Wave completed.
I reloaded my rifle and checked my vest. Still intact. After I reloaded, the second Truck came. Same Direction, same model, same number of Elites. But they were all armed with AKMs. Now I had to be VERY careful. Although the AKM has the same accuracy at long range as the PPSch-41, it was a lot more dangerous. I managed to hit the driver causing the truck to crash into a tree. But only the co-driver died in the crash. The passengers in the back were unharmed. They immediately opened fire and suppressed me, unable to return fire. I peeked out of cover slowly and hit a Soldier that reloaded. Only 3 left. But my vest was destroyed. The adrenalin gives me the kick I needed. I aimed at a grenade one of the Soldiers was wearing on his belt. I was out on the open, bullets flew in my direction. But I managed to hit, it killing all 3 of them.
Done. It’s over. I walked down to Twilight but was stopped by a, “Stop or I will shot!” The Co-driver had survived. He was holding his AKM with his right hand and his leg with his left Hand.
“You will kill me anyway.”
“Let’s make a deal. You give me the Filly and I will spare you.”
“You'll have to go through me if you want her. I will protect her until my last bullet.” I blocked to door to the basement.
“So be it.” He aimed at my Head. But I did a Quick draw and shot him with a small burst of my pistol.
This time, I was stopped by a white light. “I got help as you ordered.” The guard said showing me, my Friends and Twilight's family.
“Is my daughter alright?” Velvet asked me with worry.
“Yes she is. She is in the basement.” Twilight ran from the basement into the Arms of her mother.
“My poor baby!” Velvet was overjoyed to see her daughter again.
“He saved me from the bad Russians, Mommy!”
“Thank you for… Mr. James, you are bleeding!” Velvet said in horror. As I looked down, I noticed that I was riddled like a sieve. My Chest, my uniform, my hands all covered in blood.
The Adrenalin must have held me from feeling the pain and noticing that I was hit. A normal human would be already dead but thanks to my healing ability I could take more hits before it was critical. “Aww. Damn!” I lost by balance and fell on my back.
Twilight ran over to me. She was standing in my blood but she didn’t care. “Hold on James! You’re going to be fine.”
“There is no way I’m going to be fine. I’m a bloody puddle. Even if you make it to get me to a hospital, I would die. I… I wish this had never happened or I saw this coming. I wish I… could spend more time with you. But I will… always…be…in… your heart.” I used my last strength to point with my hand to her heart before I died.
Twilight cried as she looked over my body. My friends, her Family even the Guards and Celestia cried. “A good Soldier. With a big heart. He sacrificed it for a child.” Jonas and Hans did both the catholic cross out of respect.
“I’m sorry Twily, but we need to go. More Russians could arrive any second.” Shining Armor tried to get his sister away from my corpse. But she shoved him away.
“NO!” She shouted filled with sadness and anger. “I will not leave him behind! He deserved something better. A second chance. Or at least an honorable burial. After all he had done for me. After all the suffering.” She cried and closed my eyes. “You’re done your Duty Soldier.”
She said sadly. Her mother hugged her to cheer her up. Celestia walked over to my body and casted a spell. In a bright light we all vanished.
Author's Note
What has Celestia planned with the body? You will see.
Chapter 8 Equestria
I remained in a void of darkness but I heard voices. “Wake up, Soldier. That is an Order,” A male voice said with a commanding but friendly voice.
“Yes buddy, wake up. I waited so long for this moment." Another male voice spoke to me.
“Come on. Wake up, my favorite German,” A Children’s voice with a French accent was the third. All familiar.
But I couldn’t remember why they were so familiar. I opened my eyes, only to be blended by a bright light. My body was also numb. After a few moments, I was able to move again. I was blended by the light again but it was less intense. My vision came back. I saw a man in an officer uniform, a soldier and a boy, but all blurred.
The bright light began to disappear. I recognized the officer as Feld marshal Rommel. “Sir? This this really you?”
“Yes. It’s me.” I was about to salute him, but he gave a sign that it was not necessary. “You don’t need to do that.”
“I’m dead and in Heaven?” I was confused.
“No James, you only passed out from the blood loss and shock. If you wondering why are you here: Someone wants to see you. Follow me.” He commanded.
After a while, I saw someone I never thought I would see again. My wife! “James!” She hugged me. “It’s so nice to see you again! I missed you so much!”
“Me too. But may I ask how I ended up here?” She looked away. “Well, whatever we are right now, we can communicate with the ones we loved in their dreams or when they are close to death as you were. But you survived.” She showed me that I was alive in a hospital bed but unconscious. Twily had a bandage around her chest and was asleep next to me. She was safe and sound. I smiled.
“I’m very proud of you. You took care of her as she was your own daughter.”
“Thanks, Lena. But where are the others?”
“Come with me.” After a while, I saw Richtofen, Wolfgang, Hoffmann, Schulz and Müller playing cards. Hoffmann noticed me first.
“Hey buddy!” He stood up and greeted me.
“Long time not see.”
“I know. Even I was not able to be at your weeding, you have my respect and my condolence for what happened to you.”
“Thank you. But if you are able to talk to me, where’s my brother, Lucie and so?”
"Our Son is about to get them, James. But the news about Lucie and Lucas were wrong. She feared that she or her son would be viewed as collaborator and her son as a war child. Because of this, she faked her death and of her son. Your Nephew helped them to get a new identity. But he was never allowed to tell anyone.”
“I understand.”
“Yeah, I wish, I was able to tell you that. But because of Japan, postwar Germany and Korea, I was never able to do it.” My brother and my nephew came in leaded by my son.
“Daddy! I missed you so much!” I hugged him.
“Me too my Son.”
“It seems your brother and I had almost the same fade. Out of the troop transport, boom headshot. Your brother was hit by an artillery strike as he left the troop transport,” John explained. “But yet, we all are proud of you. But I think you should wake up now to make Twilight feel better.”
“I know but what about you?”
“Don’t worry; we will always be in your heart and your dreams.”
“It was so nice to see you again.”
“Until next time, Daddy.” My Son said before I regained my consciousness.
I opened my eyes to inspect the room. It was not a normal hospital room. It looked more like a room for royalty. I didn’t want to wake Twily so I remained still. The Door opened quietly and Celestia walked in. She smiled.
“Ah, you are awake and well.”
"May I ask where I am?”
“You are in Canterlot the capital of Equestria.”
“I can’t believe it.”
“See for yourself.” She pointed to the window, but I shook my head and pointed to the sleeping filly next to me. Celestia just smiled and took Twily gently of the bed so I could get up.
“She really cares about you. She was most affected when you were close to death. When she refused to leave you behind, I could feel how she deployed a father/daughter relationship to you. Her lungs were injured pretty badly, so we had to do an emergency surgery. But she survived it without problems. The best doctors of Equestria overseen by myself fixed you up after you risked your life to safe hers.”
Walking was difficult, as I was still feeling pain in my chest. As I looked out of the window, I saw the most beautiful view I had ever seen in my entire life. Even Paris was nothing compared to Canterlot and the rest of Equestria. “How long I was passed out?”
“Only a few weeks. Twilight ate and slept but never leaved this room until you would wake up.”
“It’s a very beautiful view from here. But what happens now? There will be investigations after I took out the Russians. And what about my friends and the boy?”
“Don’t worry. Your friends are also in Equestria. It was a little complicated; but I managed to prevent a third world war. And the boy got his punishment for attempted murder and kidnapping. He will be in Jail for a very long Time. I would love it if you and your friends would stay in Equestria, but the citizens of Equestria aren’t ready yet to meet a human. So, I have no other chose then to send you back. But before I do that, we should celebrate.” She turned to a guard. “Please inform our guests.”
“As you wish, you’re Highness.”
At the guard left, Celestia gently waked Twily up. “It’s time to wake up, my little pony.”
Twilight let out a yawn and blinked. As she saw me, she smiled and hugged me. “James, you’re awake!” She was crying. “The doctor said you would probably never wake up. I’m so glad that you survived!” I patted her back.
“I’m also glad that you are all right.”
“I hate it to brake this moment but I think we have something to celebrate.” Velvet followed by her husband walked in. “We are so grateful for saving our daughter. The celebration is the ball room. Should I give you a piggy back ride, sweetie?” Twilight climbed on her mother with a wide smile, before Velvet and Nightlight trotted ahead out of hearing range. As I followed Twilights parents to the ball room; I was concerned about the time that passed and Twilight. But Celestia putted a wing over me.
“Don’t worry. It was traumatic for Twilight but she came over it.” I let out a sigh of relief.
“I am relieved. I had never forgiven myself if she was traumatized by her kidnapping. And if two weeks on earth were just a couple of days in your World, how many months or years is that on Earth? And why did you save me? You could just leave me here.”
“It was not your fault. And don’t worry about the Time. When you will get back to your home, the time will be the same as when you left. And I saved you, because you wished that you could spend more time with her. And she wished that you deserve a second chance. So I granted both your wishes. Besides, after I saw how she closed you in her heart, and how much you were depressed after your family’s death, I could feel if we left you behind, that she would be as much depressed as you were. And depression at such a young age is not good for your life and health. I learned that after I lost my sister,” Celestia explained.
As we reached the ball room, I could see that Shining Armor and Cadence gave Paul and Lucas a piggy back ride. They all had fun. Jonas, Hans, Sarah and Julia were chatting to each other and smiled at their kids.
“Ah, you’re awake.” Shining Armor smiled at me. “And don’t worry; I gave this leader a good buck for kidnapping and hurting my sister. Nobody or pony hurts my sister and gets away with it!” He smiled at his sister. He took her safety very serious. He will become a good guard, I can tell.
“Did Princess Celestia inform you of what will happen now?” I asked my friends. They all nodded.
“I have also some presents for all of you. But I will give it to you tomorrow after the party before you leave. But for now, let’s Party!” Celestia was very happy. I never expected such a party animal in a royalty like her. “If you don’t mind, I choose a song I heard while we saw your memory in France.” She showed me the name. Koop – Koop Island Blues.
“Not at all. I love this song, your Highness.”
“Please, you don’t need to be so formal to me and my niece. Celestia and Cadence is ok.
As I took her Hooves and begun to dance, I saw how everyone danced with their partners while Twily danced alternately with Paul and Lucas. Even the Guards were allowed to dance by Celestia. It was a nice evening.
As it was going late, Celestia showed us our rooms. The guest rooms were beautiful. The bed was very comfortably. But I couldn’t find sleep. I went on the balcony. The moon and the stars in Equestria were more beautiful as they were on Earth. It was one of the most beautiful things I had ever seen in my entire life.
I heard hoof steps. Cadence walked to me. “I’m sorry if I disturb you Mr. James, but can I ask you something?” She asked politely.
“Not at all. And James is just fine. No need to be formal to me.”
“I don’t want to make you upset, but why didn’t you marry again or adopt a child after your loss? I mean, you had other way’s to be happy again.” She looked a little bit ashamed from this question.
“Well, I still love my Family with all my Heart. The Reason why I never married again or adopted a child is simple: I can’t think that a woman would want to marry an ‘old man’, or a man who cannot age anymore. I just accepted my fate and lived my life.”
As I finished my answer, Celestia joined us. “And still, you helped people in need. You should know that Humans also lived in Equestria long ago. But for some reason, the balance of our world was broken because of this. The humans had to go. It was a difficult step for them and us. But I will never forget how friendly they were to us.”
I couldn’t believe what I just heard. “There were humans in Equestria?” I asked.
“Yes. They lived in peace and harmony with us. Most of the technology we have is recycled from them. But you should try to sleep. Tomorrow will be a great Day.” Celestia said to me with a smile.
As I walked in and lied down in the bed, I began to think about my life. I need to change it. And I think I know how I will do this.
I awoke early in the morning. Thanks to being a Soldier and a former Farmer, I was used to get up early. But I always slept longer when I had the chance.
I stretched my arms as I heard a knock on the door. “Yes?”
A Guard opened the Door. “Sir, Breakfast is ready. I am here to escort you to the dining room.” I nodded.
“Lead the way. What’s your name?”
“Private Blizzard Storm. Actually, I am a recruit.” He blushed. “Why did you join?” “Similar to your friend, to impress my marefriend. She has a orange mane and tail and a torquiest coat, light blue eyes and as Cutie Mark a heart with a blue ribbon tied around it. Her name is Misty Breeze. My father was a guard too and he told me that it is a great honor to serve in the royal guard, and that every mare loves a stallion in uniform or golden armor.”
“That’s true.” We shared a laugh.
“Good luck to you, Storm.”
“Thank you.”
The Guard led me to the dining room. It was impressive. A long table occupied much of the center of the room. The walls were painted with various scenes, illuminated by candles.
Celestia and the others were already seated on the table.
“Jessie, please join us.” She gestured to a seat next to her with a wing. I nodded before I took a seat. It was rare that someone was calling me with my real name. On the table were buns for the adults, Juice and oatmeal for the Children. Celestia enjoyed a cup of tea.
After we finished breakfast, Celestia showed us our gifts. None of us could believe it. The gifts were a plushie of Twilight. “Don’t worry about breaking it; I put a spell on them so they unbreakable, no matter what happens.”
Twilight cried her heart out. “I’m going to miss you so much!”
“We will too Twily, but remember, we will be always in your heart.” I spoke to her as her mother looked at me.
“Thank you for taking care of my daughter. She had never made it without you. And if you like it we would like to make you part of or family. Do you accept?”
“But of course.” Even my friends accepted. Being an uncle was a nice Idea from Velvet even if it was unofficial.
“So be it. And I need to thank you for taking care of one of my little ponies. I and her Family will always be grateful for that.”
We did one last hug with Twilight. Paul and Lucas were sad to leave their new friend, but they knew it was right what would happen now.
I looked for the Date. It was the same Day as Celestia arrived. The plushie collection was on the table. But it vanished in a white light. Probably Celestia forgot to take them with her for Twilight. I could remember everything.
“What happens now?”
“Now Hans, we should go on with our lives. But we will never forget Twilight.”
Lucas cried. “It’s so sad. But at least she is finally at home. But what will you do now? You were affected the most.”
A small Tear escaped my eye. “I know I’m alone again. But it had changed my life. It maybe sounds stupid but I think I will look if that warehouse is real.”
“Well, good luck, buddy,” Jonas said before his and Hans Family left with the plush fillies.
I sat down on the couch to remember the good time I had with her. Time went fast. It was night. I went to sleep with the Twilight plushie in my arms. I know it sounds silly, but I dreamed from the time I had with Twilight, every time I slept with the plushie in my arms. It remembered me also of my childhood.
I was wondering what her future would be.
Author's Note
You know what Twilight's future is. About James future, you will know it in the last chapter
And thanks powerpony That could use your OC.
Epilogue
53 years later
I sat in an office. The DDR was no more, Germany was reunited and I was in charge of a militia. I found out that the Warehouse was real. It was hidden deep in the underground. In the warehouse were enough Weapons to create a new army which I did. It was not easy but I managed to do it.
In the Warehouse were many secret technologies that were able to keep the Wehrmacht gear updated and serviced. My Army was very popular by many young men. I was also a fan of my little pony Friendship is magic. I watched every one of Twilight's adventures and her Friends. Many of my Soldiers were fans too. Even the Soldiers who were not Fans or “Bronys” as the fans were called treated the Bronys with respect.
I was very respected by my men, as I cared for every single one them. For me, they were my new Family. Also, I managed to find Lucas. He, Martin and Toby joined also my militia.
I heard a knock on my Door. “Enter.” Lucas and Paul walked in. They were grown into handsome men. They were two of my best and most loyal soldiers. They wore Wehrmacht uniforms. They both saluted. “At ease.”
“Request permission to speak, Sir.”
“Permission granted.”
“So many years passed since we met her. Sometimes, I wonder if she is still remembering us,” Lucas spoke to me.
“Are you proud of her, Sir?” Paul asked me. Twilight was now an Alicorn and a Princess. How could I not be proud of her?
I don’t know which Twilight I helped, but regardless if it was the Twilight from the canon universe, or the Past Sins universe, or any other universe, I will always be proud of her.
I stood up and looked out of the Window, standing like an military officer would. “Of course, I’m proud Paul. And I will never forget her.”
Author's Note
End of the Line. I hope you enjoyed my first story.