For Honor-Conquestby Mkchief34ChaptersProlouge-The CouncilChapter 2-UnbrokenChapter 3-WarbornChaptet 4-GauntletChapter 5-LawbringerChapter 6-Warborn PrideChaptef 7-The Marching FireChapter 1-Break of DawnProlouge-The CouncilThe Great Council The Field of Union, Ashfield Through the tents and carts of the the three warrior clans, Faust slowly walked among them, disguised as a human female in a cloak. She remembered the day Equestria had surrendered to the combined armies of the Griffons, Dragons, and Minotaurs, all hungry for Equestria's wealth and plunder. The nation of ponies had suffered much. Faust had heard her pupil Celestia's cry from the Crystal Empire, and she had responded by coming to the world of humans, to the land of Ashfield. She had heard the stories of their power in war, their Vikings, Samurai, and Knights. Her first step was to see the envoy leader of the knights known as The Iron Legion. They occupied the upper part of the camp, and as most of the Knights were occupied with their duties, it was deserted. Faust tugged her hood over her head and entered the command tent of their leader, Cross. She was surprised to see him not in his tent, but outside of it, hacking away at scarecrows armed with wooden swords and shields. Faust took a moment to admire Cross's prowess with a Poleaxe. His weapon was relentless, carving through the scarecrows with ease. She watched as Cross cleaned his weapon of straw and fabric, before he noticed her. "Who are you?" He asked, in the human tongue. "An envoy." She replied. "I need council with the leaders of the Vikings and Samurai, or in your tongue, the Chosen and the Warborn." "For what reason?" Cross asked. "No one person can request a meeting with the clans, especially during these negotiations." "I am no mere person, for I am a god." Faust replied, uncloaking and shedding her disguise, revealing her alicorn form, in all of its glory. Cross fell to his knees, his head and eyes averted, due to the radiant light coming from her form. "It shall be done." He said. "But..who or what are you?" "I am Faust, goddess of Equis, bearer of life." She said. "Lift your head, Cross of the Iron Legion." Cross stood up shakily. "I have come because I need your help." She said. "My domain has fallen to conquerors. They did not possess the will to fight, but you do.I have seen your clans in war. Your clans, the Legion, the Chosen and the Warborn are my domain's last hope." "I will speak with the Council…" Cross said. "But I do not know if they will believe me." "Leave that concern to me." Faust replied, disguising herself once more and hiding her face. "I must speak to them at once." "I shall take you to the council." Cross said, as he and Faust walked to the middle of the camp, where a great fire was burning. The leader of the Chosen, Ayu, and the leader of the Warborn, Stigandr, watched as Cross and Faust approached. "Who is this, Cross?" Stigandr asked. "One who must speak to all of us." Cross replied. "If it is consentable." "Fine." Ayu said. "But make it quick." Stigandr said. "My warriors grow restless for their home." Faust stepped up in front of the fire, gathering the attention of all the humans. Faust took a deep breath, and hed her disguise, filling the area with pure light. As the shock wore off, the Warborn fell to their knees, the Legion flinched and gasped, and the Chosen muttered amongst themselves. "Hear me, humans." Faust cried. "I am Faust, the bearer of life, Goddess of Equis. Listen and hear. I come to you in my hour of need. My lands have been desecrated, my domain plundered, my people enslaved under an iron pact. You alone have the power to free them. I ask you to raise your steel and fight to reclaim this land. But know this, I do not ask this out of my own need. I have seen the destruction inflicted among you and this land. You are shattered, weary, famished from the fires of war. Your lands, broken. Your seas, shattered. Your steel soaked in blood of countless lives. But all will not be lost. For if you raise the war cry once more, and triumph in battle, I shall restore Ashfield to a paradise worthy of the gods, one that shall last for eternity, forever at peace. I ask you, I ask each and every one of the Warborn, Chosen, and Legion that stand before me, will you embark on this crusade? Who shall stand with me, to reclaim your land and honor? WHO SHALL STAND WITH ME?" There was silence. Then, Cross kneeled. "We stand with you. The Legion stands with you." Ayu kneeled next. "The Chosen stands with you." Stigandr kneeled. "The Warborn stand with you." Then, there was the sound of armor bending, and the three clans kneeled before Faust. Stigandr, Cross, and Ayu stood and looked at Faust. "Is this your will, Faust?" They asked. "It is." Faust replied. "Then we will fight." The leaders cried. "We will fight!" "Then assemble your armies, and come to the western coast when you are ready." Faust said. "I shall await your there, and guide you to my domain." "We will come." Cross said. "And we shall deliver." Faust nodded and disappeared in a flash of light. Cross, Ayu, and Stigandr looked to their clans, and raised their fists. One by one, every warrior present raised their own in reply. "We have work to do." Cross said. "Prepare the vessels!" Stigandr roared. "Ready our blades!" Ayu cried. "For our hope is in war!" Cross finished, and the three clans roared, roared with more fury than ever before nor since. ============ Equestria, Crystal Empire Celestia stood on the balcony of the Crystal Empire, praying before a small token on a shrine. Her eyes were filled with tears, that fell to the floor like the pouring rain. "Rise, my child." Celestia saw a orb of golden light appear in front of her. "Faust…" She said. "Forgive me, I have failed you." "You have not failed me." Faust said. "I know you did what you could to defend your land. But do not be afraid. I have succeeded in my task. Soon, Equestria will be liberated and your people will be free." Celestia could not speak, only nod. "They shall come on three day's dawn." Faust said. "Be ready. They are war, and war they shall bring." Faust disappeared, and Celestia smiled, the first time in quite a while. Chapter 2-UnbrokenPonyville One Week since Capture Not much time had passed since the arrival of the Legion, Warborn, and Chosen, before the sparks of uprising began to take hold. In cities across Equestria, the smoldering fires of hope began to burn against the Iron Pact. However, there was still much work to do. The Stronghold in the Dovetail valley, occupied by Griffons, was also home to nearly 3,000 prisoners of war. They were used as slave labor in the iron mines nearby. Faust had communed with the Chosen, and selected them to take this fort. She had other plans for the Warborn and Legion, who were to assault a nearby fort as a diversion. As for Ponyville, the new capital of a fledgling Equestria, the Knights, Vikings, and Samurai were hailed as saviors. They were not like the swaggering Minotaurs, the greedy Dragons, or the conquering Griffons. Now, Ayu and the Orochi lead two hundred Samurai and many more men-at-arms against this stronghold, with orders to leave no Griffon alive. ==== Dovetail Mines Seven in the Morning "Ayu, we are ready." the Orochi said to his Leader. Ayu nodded and motioned for the Men-at-Arms to move up towards the fort. It was barely dawn, and as expected, when news of the combined Legion and Warborn attack reached the ears of the stronghold, the Griffons had rushed reinforcements to the battle, leaving few left at the Stronghold. And these few were fresh and unblooded, with ten captains and officers for nearly three hundred defenders. This was what Ayu was counting on to happen. Ayu and the Orochi crept through the brush like snakes as they approached the gate. "We shall silence them without mercy!." Ayu ordered to her troops. "NOW!" The Griffon defenders, still sleeping in their beds, were startled by a cry of war that shattered their resolve. A few officers managed to rally them and move them towards the gate. In their haste, half were armed, and even less were armored. The Gate was opened by the Keepers, and the Griffons streamed out with a battle cry… ...only to fall back in terror as the Chosen appeared, their blades ready and their armor shining. Ayu's naginata was the first to draw blood, piercing the skull of a Griffon clean through. The Chosen then raised their cry, and advanced into the fort with weapons high. The Orochi cleaved a Griffon's wings off before impaling him, staring at a group of soldiers whose officer he had just slaughtered. "Who's next?" he scoffed. The soldiers, enraged by their officer's demise, threw themselves at the Samurai. The Orochi merely grinned as his Nodachi began its bloody dance through their bodies. "Like lambs to the knife." he growled, as he beheaded one, slit the throat of a second, and stomped on a third's head. He advanced into the fort with seven Men-at-arms behind him. Then, from a balcony above him, a heavily armed and armored Griffon appeared with a roar of fury. "You demons shall not interfere!" he cried, drawing a broadsword. The Orochi merely scoffed and readied his Nodachi. The Griffon made the first move, slicing towards the Orochi's chest. The Samurai parried, landing a slash to the Griffon's lower knee. Taking the offensive, the Chosen warrior hacked away at the Griffon's armor, finally forcing the warrior to his knees, with Orochi's blade at his throat. "Do it! Kill me!" he barked. "You're no better than me!" "On the contrary, I am better." the Orochi scoffed as he stood back. "You fight well." "To hell with you!" was the reply. The Griffon attempted to throw a hidden dagger, but three swift strikes later, and the Griffon lay headless and armless on the ground. "Pitiful." the Orochi scoffed. "Orochi!" a Man-at-arms cried from the entrance. "The Griffons have surrendered the fort to us." "Good. Tell Ayu I will join her shortly. I will take a look around." Orochi entered the main office, and looked through the dead Griffon's papers. He was about to leave when he turned and saw something unusual. A map lay on the war table, with several pins stuck in it. The Orochi walked over, and peered at the paper. According to it, the Elements of Loyalty and Honesty were being held in a camp built on the other side of the nearby mountains. Kindness was in a city called "Manehattan", and Generosity was being kept in the capital of Canterlot. Furthermore, the Map displayed a perimeter around a "Crystal Empire" to the north, marked with "Heavy resistance, Do not challenge." The Orochi rolled the map up and placed it in his belt before heading outside. Ayu merely laughed as the Orochi approached, gesturing to the crowd of Griffon prisoners. "They surrendered once you entered the fort." Ayu scoffed. "We have no use for them." "I believe so, Ayu." Orochi replied. "It would be easier to kill them." "We are not like the Blackstones, nor Apollyon, Orochi." Ayu said. "We will find out what they know. And then we will use them as we see fit." "Understood." The Men-at-arms confined the Griffons in the fort's prison, while Ayu and the Orochi headed for the mines. === The prisoners in the mine woke up to a disturbing series of events. Their Guards were absent… Their chains were gone... And the doors were open. The three hundred ponies slowly exited the fort, and found the Chosen waiting for them, with food, weapons, and medicine. "Who leads among you?" Ayu asked. "I do." a pony stepped forward. "Brass Hoof, Third Solar Guards." "Brass Hoof." Ayu said. "Arm what warriors you have and head to Ponyville. Princess Twilight is expecting you. You will find relief there. Now go." "With pleasure." Brass said, saluting Ayu. "You have our thanks." The ponies departed, and Ayu turned to see a Legion Men-at-arms approach and bow. "Ayu, I have a message from Holden Cross." "Let me have it." Ayu said. The Runner handed her a scroll and stood to the side. Ayu unfurled the scroll and looked at the writing. Ayu, Our battle is won. The Griffons put up a good fight, but were vanquished in the end. We are returning to Ponyville with our prisoners and a sizeable amount of loot. Follow as soon as you can. Cross. Ayu nodded to the Runner, who retrieved the scroll before heading off. "Let us return home!" Ayu cried. Leaving one hundred to defend the fort, Ayu and her troops headed back to Ponyville, victorious. Chapter 3-WarbornOne day after Chosen attack Everfree Forest Clearing The ground shook as a horde of Warborn, led by Stigandr and the Raider, marched towards the prison camp. The Chosen and Legion were elsewhere, occupied with other battles. "Good." Stigandr thought. "We will unleash Hell on these monsters." As the Warborn approached the cliff overlooking the camp, the Raider walked forward. "We are ready, Chieftain." he said, drawing his Long Axe. The many other Men-at-arms and Warborn fighters readied their own weapons. From what Stigandr could see, the camp had just woken up, and the prisoners were marching to assembly. ==== Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy marched with the other Equestrian prisoners to roll call. They expected it to be another day of back-breaking labor under the sadistic Griffons. Chopping trees, clearing roads, mining ore. They certainly didn't expect to hear a war-horn bellow through the trees. The Griffons looked to each other, not sure what was going on. The prisoners started to become nervous. Then came the scream of war. "VALHALLA!" came the Viking war-cry, as everyone in the camp saw the Warborn stream out of the forest like a torrential flood. "TO ARMS!" a Griffon lieutenant cried, just as the Warborn breached the gate. ==== The Raider smashed through the gate through sheer strength, and rammed a Griffon's head into the earth. The men-at-arms streamed in, their blades clashing against the Griffon armor. The Raider knew time was not on their side, and he hurled himself into the fray. ==== Rainbow and Fluttershy broke ranks and hid themselves behind a pile of crates as they watched the Raider enter combat. His axe shaft smashed the skull of a Griffon, before he hurled a shortsword into another's chest. The Raider was relentless, killing without mercy, as Griffon after Griffon fell to him. "You! MONSTER!" The Raider turned to see the Camp Commander, Gesher, stride forward with a polearm. The Warborn scoffed and readied his axe. "I will make you all pay!" Gesher screamed as he lunged. However, due to his error, Gesher leaped into the air, giving the Raider plenty of time to adapt and defend himself. He sidestepped and landed his axe blade into the Griffon's back, hoisting him up. The battle ceased as the Griffons, viewing the corpse of their leader, fell in surrender. The Raider laughed as he kicked the body off of his weapon's edge. He then roared a victory cry, echoed by the Warborn. The Raider turned to see Rainbow and Fluttershy huddling together. "Come out, little ones." Raider said. "We come as friends and kin." Rainbow took a defensive stance, but she and Fluttershy came out. The Valkyrie Runa stepped forward. "I'll take them to Ponyville." she said, shouldering her spear. "Let's go." The three of them, with Fluttershy still shaking from the carnage, left. Raider turned to the crowd of Griffons who had surrendered. "What now?" he asked himself. "We're Warborn. We don't take prisoners." "Correct." Faust said, through his mind. "You may dispose of them as you will. They took the Elements of Loyalty and Kindness, and you will show them none." "With pleasure!" Raider said out loud. Stigandr looked at him, and the Raider nodded. "Faust says kill them." Raider scoffed. The Chieftain gave a smile and the Men-at-arms descended on the terrified prisoners. ==== As the Warborn returned with their plunder, and news of their success, Twilight, Cross, and Ayu greeted them. "We've got good news." the Equestrian Princess said. "The Crystal Empire is sending reinforcements to us." "And we've managed to cause quite a stir among our enemies." Cross laughed. "They are in fear of us." "Let them." Stigandr said. "They will grow to embrace that fear." ==== Canterlot Lord Blueblood, Ruler of the Equestrian Domain, marched into the Iron Pact's chamber. Garble, Greisen, and Iron Will looked at him, as if expecting something. "They captured the camp." Blueblood spat. "And two more of the Elements of Harmony." "This is impossible!" Garble growled. "And just as the time comes to reclaim my right as Dragon Lord!" "We all have our responsibilities." Greisen said. "Blueblood, you will lead an army to Ponyville and kill every last one of these invaders. They have gained too much ground. They only have two Elements left to find, and once reunited, they will destroy us." "As you wish." Blueblood said. He departed, and Garble flew off towards the Dragon Lands. Iron Will looked at Greisen angrily. "You said there would be no chance of resistance." the Minotaur said. "You said it would be easy to conquer Equestria." "I did." Greisen said. "And yet these warriors come and decimate us!" Iron Will roared. "My forces are longing for home! We did not want conquest!" "And yet you shall have it!" Greisen roared. "Our pact is eternal!" "And yet I see otherwise." Iron Will said. "If they are not defeated by Blueblood, I and the Minotaur Kingdoms will desert the pact and you cannot stop us." "You would betray us?" Greisen asked. "Yes, if my demands are not met." Iron Will said. "I am no warmonger, unlike you." Greisen scoffed. "We will see." he sighed. "We will see." ==== The Raider walked through Ponyville towards Stigandr's tent, when he saw the yellow Pegasus approach him. "You are the frightened one from the camp." he said. "Yes." Fluttershy murmured. "I wanted to say thank you." "You are welcome." The Raider replied. "The Chieftain requires me. Farewell." Fluttershy smiled slightly as the Raider proceeded to the tent, where Stigandr was waiting. "Ah, just in time." said the Viking leader. "Our next raid is to the north of here. Towards a large supply fort we need to feed our ever-growing army." "Good." Raider said. "We shall send them to Hel." "Hel is too good for them!" Stigandr laughed. "Gather the men! We leave in two hours!" As the Warborn assembled, Cross and Twilight watched from afar. "Cross, are the Vikings normally so eager for battle?" asked Twilight. Cross smiled. "Yes." he said simply. "Yes, they are." Author's Note Update! Next time-Blueblood's attack on Ponyville. Chaptet 4-GauntletBlueblood strode out towards the head of his troops, who saluted him with a cheer. "March out! Destroy the invaders!" he cried. "Do so and you will be greatly rewarded!" The war-cry was raised, and the mass of soldiers, Griffons, Minotaurs, and a few Dragons marched towards Ponyville, unaware they were being watched. ==== Rainbow Dash watched Blueblood's army march towards Ponyville, her eyes furrowing. Though the human healers and Equestrian medicine had healed her wings and body, she had mental scars that would never heal. Right now, she was scouting Blueblood's army for more than one reason. One, being she was asked to by Twilight. The other being rather simple. Revenge. Rainbow flew towards Ponyville, unnoticed in the bright blue sky. ==== "Twi!" Rainbow cried, bursting into a war council. "What's up?" Twilight replied, looking away from the map. "Blueblood's army is on the move." she said. "They'll be here soon." "We'll go met them." Cross said, grabbing his Halberd. "Any objections?" There were none. Cross smiled, motioned to the Warden and Andrew, and they assembled the Legion's Men-at-arms to march. To march head-on to meet their foes face-to-face. ==== As Blueblood's army approached Ponyville field, Cross, Warden, and Andrew stood in front of them. Cross had split his forces into three groups, to attack Blueblood's rear, left, and right flanks. As Blueblood approached, Cross approached. "Hah!" Blueblood scoffed. "Three of you? Against my army?" "We've faced worse." Cross said, placing his helmet on his head. "Surrender." "Never." Blueblood said. "We will kill every last one of you, without mercy." "Allow us to return the favor, then." Cross retorted, as The Warden and Andrew drew their longswords. The opposing army readied their own weapons, until Cross struck the ground three times with the shaft of his Halberd. It was the signal to attack. === Blueblood barely had time to yell "Prepare yourselves!" as the Legion soldiers stormed into the fray, catching Blueblood's army by surprise. Blueblood drew his rapier and barely had time to dodge a vicious slash from The Warden. He parried and thrusted his blade straight towards the Warden's heart, only for the pierce to barely dent The Warden's armor. Blueblood dodged several more attacks, watching as his forces were cut down like wheat. Then, Blueblood fired a blast of magic at The Warden, who was sent back several feet from the force. Blueblood then saw several of his warriors form a circle around him, as the Legion advanced. Then, Cross held up his hand. "You were entertaining, I'll give you that." Cross said. "I'll take you on myself." Blueblood drew a dagger and held it in his other hoof, as Cross readied his Halberd. Blueblood made the first strike, burying his dagger in Cross's chestplate. Cross struck Bluebood with the shaft in response, sending him sprawling. "Is that all you can muster?" Cross taunted. Blueblood responded with a growl and a massive thrust towards Cross's head… Only for his rapier's blade to shatter into pieces. Now weaponless, Blueblood tried to muster a Shield for defense, but a smash from Cross placed the Unicorn at the Lawbringer's mercy. "I dare you. Kill me." Blueblood scowled. "If you insist." Cross swung his Halberd into Blueblood's lower muzzle, before lifting him up and over himself. Finally, Cross rammed the shaft of his weapon through Blueblood's head. As Andrew helped The Warden to his feet, the remaining enemy soldiers dropped their weapons and surrendered. "Take them to Ponyville!" Cross said. "We'll deal with them later!" As the prisoners were escorted away, Cross looked to a burning mountain in the distance before following. ==== The Dragon Lands Pyre Mountain Garble walked into the heart of the volcano, smiling as his prisoners lay bound to two volcanic rocks. Spike and Ember snarled at the dragon, who laughed. "You dare snarl at the Dragon Lord?" Garble laughed. "Curse you!" Ember snarled. "You aren't Dragon Lord yet!" "I will be, once you give me the Scepter's location!" Garble yelled, clutching Ember's throat. "And you're going to give it to me!" "Never!" Ember hurled a gout of flame in his face, causing Garble to smack her. He nearly started the...breeding process...then and there, but he decided to wait through his anger. "You'll break. Sooner or later." Garble snarled as he left. Spike looked at Ember with a concerned expression. "Spike, don't go on me." Ember said. "We can take it." "I know." he said. "I just can't keep up." "You will." was the reply. "Remember, Twilight will come." "I know she will." Spike said as sweat poured from his brow. "I know." ==== As Garble walked into the Gauntlet of Fire, he smiled, seeing he was the only challenger. Then, he heard footsteps. "You've lost." Garble turned to see Torch appear in front of him. "I have not." Garble replied. "You do not have the Scepter." Torch said. "You will never be recognized by it." "I will once I have it." Garble said. "The title will be mine!" "We'll see." Torch replied, flying away. "We will see." ==== "I know Spike is there." Twilight said, watching the Volcano. "He has to be." "Twilight, I understand your need to find your friend." Ayu said. "But there are more pressing matters." "No, there aren't." Twilight growled. "I'm getting him out of there." "You won't." Cross said, coming forward. "Not alone." Twilight looked at the Lawbringer with curiosity. "I need a favor." he said. "The dragon's fire will destroy my armor. Can you prevent that?" Twilight smiled. "With pleasure." she said, casting a resistance spell on Cross, and his armor glowed with orange light. "That spell will make you immune to heat and flame of any kind." "Good." Cross said, grabbing his helmet. "Let's go." Twilight nodded and teleported them to the entrance to Pyre Mountain. ==== Torch saw the approaching Lawbringer and pony, and bowed to them. "Torch?" Twilight asked. "You have arrived just in time." Torch said. "Garble doesn't possess the Bloodstone Scepter, which will give him the right of Dragon Lord. Claim it, and this right will be yours." "Do you know where it is?" Cross asked. "I do." Torch said. "I had it removed from the Gauntlet and replaced with a fake. It is hidden under the mountain, in a special chamber." "Thank you, dragon." Cross said. "I will not fail." "I wish you luck." Torch replied. "Now, go." Author's Note Update! Chapter 5-LawbringerAs the Gauntlet of Fire contenders began to assemble, Garble eyed the other competing dragons with contempt and disdain. There were ten Dragons total, and only one could win. And, Garble thought, that will be me. With a roar from Torch, the Contenders began their challenge through the gauntlet. ==== Torch watched Garble make his way through the various traps set to deter the contenders with a sigh. Earlier, the former Dragon Lord had made arrangements to let Cross and Princess Twilight recover the real Bloodstone Scepter, and free his daughter and Spike. There was still one problem, that being the many spies Garble had skulking about the mountain. They were not known, and though they could not communicate with Garble indirectly, all were still a threat to Torch. He slowly made his way to the cave where he had hidden the real Scepter, where Cross and Twilight were waiting. ==== "Has it begun?" Cross asked as Torch approached. "It has commenced." Torch said. "I have also figured out where Garble is keeping my daughter and Spike. Inside the magma chamber of the mountain, where only the Dragon Lord can access." "That's a problem." Twilight said. Cross then strode forward and put on his helmet. "Yet there is always a solution." the Lawbringer said, taking the Scepter. "I have a plan." "Enlighten me." Torch said, pleased. "With pleasure." Cross said. "Here is what we shall do…" As Garble approached the summit of the mountain, he eyed the Bloodstone Scepter with greed clear in his eyes. As he took hold of it, a bell sounded. "I am Dragon Lord!" Garble proclaimed as he descended to the base of the mountain. "Bow before me!" Channeling the Scepter's power, he assumed its power would force the Dragons to do as he said. Except it did not. Garble stood aghast as the Bloodstone cracked and fell apart. Whispers spread through the crowd, and Garble realized he had been tricked. "WHO!?" he roared, spitting a gout of flame. "Who dared do this?" There were footsteps, and Torch walked forward. "I did." he said. "Garble, your time has come at last. Your reign is over." "You cannot take me, old one!" Garble yelled. "True." Torch siad. "I will not take you. But my allies will." Cross strode forward, and tossed the real Scepter onto the ground. "May I present Holden Cross…Envoy of the Iron Legion." Torch said. "As he is my second, I challenge you for the right of Dragon Lord." Garble roared with fury. "TRAITOR!" he screamed. "You betrayed your Dragon Lord!" "I was never on your side." Torch said. "And you are not Dragon Lord, and you never will be again. Trial by combat, right now." Garble scoffed and strode forward to face Cross, who readied his Polearm. Torch slammed the ground, and the duel began. ==== As Garble's claws raked across Holden's armor, the Lawbringer countered with several hits to his chest before a heavy, upwards blow to his chin. The dragons murmured in awe as Garble was sent sprawling to the ground. It was not long, however, before Garble spat a stream of flame towards Cross, intending to incinerate him. The fire would've consumed a normal man. But Holden Cross was no normal man. Garble watched in fury as the fire harmlessly drained off of Cross's armor, as it the fire was a light shower of water. "Impossible!" Garble screamed. "You should be in ashes! Burnt alive!" "I should be, yes." Cross said. "But I am not." With that, Cross stomped on Garble's left foot and smashed the bones inside, before landing a heavy blow to his right side. Garble was sent sprawling to the ground, moaning from his broken foot. Cross then picked up the Dragon by the throat and hurled him to the ground, before placing him at Cross's mercy. "I win." Cross said. "Yield." "Never!" Garble roared, hurling the last of his flame reserves straight into Cross's face. The heat would've burned stone to ash and molten rock. Except Legion-forged, battle-honed steel is not stone. Especially when enchanted to resist all forms of flame and heat. The fire was repelled by the magical aura, and Cross decided to finish his opponent. He swung his halberd down and hooked Garble's neck, pulling him up. Cross then released his grip, and as Garble flew past him, he slammed his polearm into the back of his skull. Dragon Scale is extremely sturdy, able to resist not only flame, but blunt-force injuries as well. However, no matter how strong a Dragon is, his scales never grow stronger than steel. That was proven as Cross's polearm nearly decapitated the former Dragon Lord. As he kicked the corpse off of his his axe, Torch bowed before him. And every dragon did suit. Cross was handed the Bloodstone scepter, and he raised it into the air. "Show me to Spike and Ember!" he commanded. As if on cue, a rock face shattered, revealing the magma chamber. Cross entered, and soon found the two Dragons nearly dead from heat. As he broke their chains, Spike looked up at the Lawbringer. "Thank you…" he said before he finally passed out. Ember and Cross helped the little dragon out of the heat, and into the safety of Twilight's arms. ==== "You'll be fine, won't you, Ember?" Twilight asked. "Are you okay with being Dragon Lord?" "I'll be fine." she replied, accepting the Scepter from Cross. "Twilight, Holden Cross, the Dragons of Equis are at your service." "We will find glory together." Cross said, shaking her hand. "I hope to fight alongside you in battle one day." "I do so as well." Ember said. "If you need anything, you'll have it." As Twilight, Spike, and Cross teleported home, a Griffon, perched behind a cloud, spied on them through a telescope. He folded the telescope and put it away, before flying full speed to Equestria and Canterlot. Author's Note Next time-The Chosen attack a supply depot, and the Warborn head to the Crystal Empire. Also, sorry this took so long. Chapter 6-Warborn PridePonyville Warborn Camp As Twilight and Cross headed through the Warborn camp to find Stigandr, they were curious at the lack of Vikings moving about. "Where's Stigandr?" Cross asked. "Where is everyone?" "No clue. Pinkie's missing, too." Twilight said. "Applejack also said three crates of Cider are also gone.'' Then, shouts of laughter and raucous chanting came from the central area. Cross and Twilight entered, and both could not help but do two things. Cross snorted in amusement. Twilight did the same, but with less enthusiasm. The Warborn were reveling in the missing cider, and at the high table, Pinkie and Stigandr were engaged in what was most definitely a drinking contest. And neither one seemed able to give in. A ever-growing pile of frothy mugs lay beside each of them, and Runa, standing next to Helvar, were roaring with laughter. "What's going on here?' Cross asked Runa. "Just a bit of friendly competition, Cross!" Runa laughed. "I never thought someone could out-drink the Jarl!" "Neither did I!" Helvar roared. "And look at the Raider!" Cross and Twilight saw the Raider standing nearby, sipping Cider and chuckling occasionally. "He's never been like this before!" Runa chortled. Cross rolled his eyes and pulled up a chair. "You're going to watch this?" Twilight asked. "It's at least entertainment." Cross replied, taking a drink. "Gods, this is very good. No wonder the Vikings are drunk as lords." Twilight rolled her eyes and sat next to Cross to watch the match. Stigandr and Pinkie had their eyes locked in a mutual respect, and they interlocked their arms before they both downed an entire glass of cider in one gulp. "Hah! Nobody out-drinks a Viking! Especially not a Jarl!" Stigandr said. "We'll see about that!" Pinkie retorted playfully. "I've won Ponyville's Cider-drink off for the last five years straight!" Cross looked at Twilight with a raised eyebrow. "It's true." Twilight shrugged. "Pinkie loves her cider." "Hey, Jarl!" said a footsoldier. "We're almost out of cider!" There was silence, until Twilight stood up with Cross. "We'll get more." she said, rolling her eyes. There was a roar of approval and cheer, and the Raider came forward. "Let me aid you." he said. "Those hooligans have had too much to drink." "Oh, don't you know it." Twilight said. "Place your bets." "Jarl Stigandr, of course." the Raider replied. "Pinkie." Twilight said. "She's even more of a cider addict then Rainbow Dash, and she could drink the town dry." "What about you, Cross?" the Raider asked. "I wager they'll tie." Cross said. "Frankly, I can't decide." "Fair enough." the Raider said. "Let's go get that cider." ==== By the time the three of them came back with whatever Cider Applejack could spare, it seemed that Pinkie had finally gained the upper hand. She was ahead by two mugs, and Stigandr seemed to be slowing down. "You'll...never...urp...beat me!" Stigandr said with a slurred voice, just as he collapsed into a heap. Every Warborn froze, and looked Pinkie with stunned eyes. "I win." she said. "Drinks are on me!" The Warborn gave another roar of pride as they began carting Pinkie's chair and Pinkie herself around the room. "I'll handle this." Raider said. "You two head on out." Twilight rolled her eyes as she left with Cross, back towards Ponyville. ==== "Twilight?" Applejack asked on their return. "What did you need all that cider for, anyway?" "The Warborn." Twilight said. "They seem to enjoy it." "Too much." Cross added. "We'll compensate you for it." "Eh, not a problem." Applejack shrugged. "One more question. Did you give them the ones from the red shack?" "I think so, why?" Twilight asked. "And that's your problem." Applejack said. "That cider's been ageing in there for as long as I've lived, possibly longer. Cider like that would knock Bic Mac out cold with a few sips." "Apparently not the Warborn." Cross laughed. "Your friend Pinkie out-drank Jarl Stigandr with that stuff." "That's nothing new." Applejack said as they walked with them. "Pinkie could out-drink Rainbow Dash, and she's addicted to the stuff." As the three of them headed to Town Hall, Ayu and the Orochi headed to the Chosen Camp. "What's the plan, Ayu?" asked the Emperor's Champion. "We need supplies to feed our armies." Ayu replied. "This depot here in the valley should serve our needs." "We'll leave immediately." the Orochi replied. "Have Hayato come, too. I want to test him." "As you wish." Ayu replied. "He is a capable warrior." "I don't doubt it." the Orochi replied. "Not at all." ===== By the time Jarl Stigandr and the Warborn had recovered from the Cider, Twilight had summoned them to her castle. By this time, it was now late evening. "What's the matter?" Stigandr asked. "We need more allies." Twilight said. "My brother and my sister-in-law at the Crystal Empire should be able to aid us." She pointed it out on the map. "Princess Celestia sought refuge there, and we need her help." she continued. "I've gotten a train running to take you here." "The hell's that?" Stigandr asked. Twilight sighed, remembering the warriors of Ashfeld had never seen a train, let alone think of one. "I'll show you." Twilight said. "It's a large series of metal carriages that can move like one of your horses, and even faster. We use them as transport." "I see." Stigandr said. "Show us." ==== As the Warborn arrived at the Train Yard, Stigandr smiled at the express train. "This thing moves on its own?" he asked. "Yep." Twilight said. "We've been developing technological marvels while you've been away." "Well, here goes nothing!" Stigandr laughed as he got on. Sitting down, he smiled. "Come on in, boys!" he said. "It won't bite!" The Warborn filed in as one, the Raider taking the helm. "I'll also be coming." Twilight said. "Mostly to make sure nobody panics." As the Train sounded a whistle and lurched forward, Stigandr looked out the window. "By the gods, she's right!" he laughed. "We could use these back home!" "Oh, you can use them in a lot of situations." Twilight said. "Let me tell you, Jarl Stigandr." As the Train proceeded towards the Empire, the sun began to fully set. Author's Note Next time-The Chosen raid the supply depot, and the Warborn arrive at the Empire. Chaptef 7-The Marching FireAs the train stopped in the Crystal Empire, Twilight, Stigandr and the Warborn disembarked to a light snowfall. "Like Valkenheim in spring." Stigandr said. "Light snow, calm breeze." "Indeed." Twilight said. As they approached the Palace, Celestia, Shining Armor, and Cadance came out to meet them. As Twilight embraced her mentor and family, Stigandr and his warriors stood at a respectful distance. "These are some of the warriors that came to free Equestria?" Celestia asked. "Indeed." Stigandr said. "Jarl Stigandr, of the Viking Warborn clans." "My honor, Jarl." Celestia said, shaking his hand. "And the others?" "The Samurai Chosen and the Knight Legions are fighting the Griffons." Stigandr said. "The dragons are now rebelling on our side, thanks to Holden Cross." Celestia was astounded. "I am grateful." Celestia replied. "With luck, Equis will soon be free." "Let's not get ahead of ourselves." the Raider said, coming forward. "We've got work to do." As they all reentered the Palace, they had no idea their efforts were about to receive unexpected aid... ==== Manehattan Three Hours earlier A centerpiece of the Iron Pact's rule over Equestria, Manehattan was where the four races of the pact mingled together. However, the city served more purposes than just that. Many of the supplies needed to run the Iron Pact's empire came from the city's great harbor, and such was heavily guarded by a naval fleet and ground soldiers. So when foreign ships bearing the gilded red flag of an eastern dragon came into their waters, the Pact's fleet went out to meet them...and were destroyed in a great battle visible from the city itself. Then, as the ships bearing the dragon flag docked and the Pact's ground forces came to attack, they were beset upon by human men-at-arms wearing armor similar to the Samurai, only more lightweight. Then four figures appeared on the deck of the Dragon fleet's flagship, and began to admire the battle below. "Beautiful, isn't it?" said one, wearing a monk's robes and armed with a staff. "They fight with ferocity, but they lack one crucial thing." "What is that, Mu Tan?" said another, who wore assassin's robes and carried two hook-bladed swords. "Coordination." Mu Tan replied, as he watched the Iron Pact's forces be turned back. "They have no leadership visible in the field, Maya Li." "Whether or not, they are still our enemies." Maya Li said. "Is that not our task, uncle Shang?" "Indeed." said the elderly one of the group, who carried a spear. "General, your thoughts?" The final one of the group nodded. This was Khan Shu, Prince of the Wu Lin Dynasty, and General of their army, known as the Marching Fire. Years ago, they had learned of the Samurai Chosen through ancient diplomacy, and by extension the Knights and Vikings. The old King of the Wu Lin and Khan's father had wanted to conquer them. That is, until he died and Shu, now Khan Shu, ascended to the throne. On the night of his coronation, he had dreamt of a white horse with a red mane and a horn and wings, who had spoken to him. She had told him of how she had brought the Knights, Samurai, and Vikings to Equestria to free her home, and how the Marching Fire must aid them. "How?" Khan Shu had asked. "We know not the path to this land, nor what awaits us." "I shall guide and protect you until you reach my shores." Faust had replied. "Khan Shu, your future shall be one of wealth and peace, if only you follow my lead." Then, Khan Shu woke up and saw a star, brighter than all others, gleaming in the night sky. As the morning came, he had rallied the Marching Fire and manned whatever vessels he could. Leaving his father's ministers, elders of his people to rule in his absence, for they were skilled in manners of the state, he followed the star to Equestria by night. Now, he and his Marching Fire would unite with those who came before them, and crush this Iron Pact like grass underfoot. "My Khan." Khan Shu turned to Shang Li, and they turned to the battlefield. "Now is the time." Shang Li said. "Lead your Marching Fire to victory." As Khan took his Dao and entered the fray, his three retainers followed suit. ==== Back in the Crystal Empire, Stigandr, the Raider, and the Royals of the Empire were dining on a specially prepared feast. Shining Armor found himself fascinated by the warrior culture of the Vikings, and was discussing it with the Jarl. Cadance spoke with Runa about her time as a Valkyrie, and the Raider let a young Flurry Heart play with his long, braided beard. Then, a bright light appeared in the room. As the Vikings stood up, Faust appeared before them. "Faust." Stigandr said. "How's things?" Faust laughed and smiled at the Jarl. "Not the greeting I was expecting." the Alicorn of Life replied. "Stigandr, you will march to Manehattan at daybreak." "Manehattan?" Celestia asked. "That is the Iron Pact's major stronghold. Faust, why must they go there?" "Because it has fallen." Faust said with pride. "A new faction of humans has come to Equestria at my call. They are known as the Wu Lin, or the Marching Fire. I brought them here as allies." "Marching Fire, huh?" Stigandr said. "Alright, one question. When do we meet them?" "Soon, Jarl Stigandr." Faust said. "Know they will be apprenhensive of you at first, but earn their respect at they shall be forever your allies. They are unparalleled in their own arts of war, and you must treat them with respect and honor." "We'll be fine, Faust." the Raider said. "We're Vikings, diplomacy is something we excel at." Faust chuckled at the Raider's comment. "Of course." she said. "Celestia, before I go, I must tell you one last thing." "What is it?" Celestia asked. "Princess Luna will soon return." Faust said. "Farewell." As the light and Faust's form faded, Helvar chuckled. "Hey, Jarl?" he asked. "Can we finish eating before we go?" "Well, what do you think?" Stigandr laughed as the feasting resumed. "Of course, you idiot, who do you think we are? We're Vikings!" As the table laughed, Stigandr leaned back in his chair.. "Marching Fire, huh?" he smirked. "I wonder how Cross and Ayu will take this." ==== As daybreak came, the Vikings prepared for the journey to Manehattan. Using Celestia, Cadance, and Twilight's alicorn magic, they would be teleported a few miles north of the city, near the Marching Fire's camp. "Get back to Ponyville safe, you hear me?" Stigandr told Twilight. "Of course." Twilight said as the Vikings assembled. "You set?" "Ready!" the Raider said. As the three alicorns cast the teleportation spell, the Vikings vanished in a flash of multicolored light. ==== At the same time, the Marching Fire began to rise from their rest. After defeating the Iron Pact forces and setting up a base camp north of the city, Khan Shu had begun preparations for a long march to Ponyville. Except the Khan did not expect to be woken up by a soldier reporting that there were strange men at the gate. "I will deal with this." the Khan had said while he prepared his armor. "Do not attack them, but be ready." Now, the Khan and his three Generals approached the strange men. They wore fur, leather, and mail, and the Khan was surprised to see one of them wore little armor at all! "May your leader come forward!" Maya Lin had proclaimed. A large man, wearing a bear's head and carrying a round shield and sword, approached. "As you wish." he said. "I am Jarl Stigandr of the Viking Warborn Clans. I suppose you are the Marching Fire we've heard so much about?" "Indeed." Khan Shu said. "I am Shu, Khan of the Wu Lin Dynasty, High General of the Marching Fire. My honor, Jarl Stigandr." The two leaders shook hands, and bowed to each other. "So, where do we start?" Stigandr asked. "Something to eat, maybe?" "If that is what you desire." Khan Shu had said. "We have ample supplies with us. However, our traditional meals may not be to your liking or tastes." "I suppose you'll need to show us, then." Stigandr replied. "if you'd be so kind." Khan Shu laughed and offered his hand again. "Of couse, Jarl Stigandr." he replied as they shook hands once again and the two sides began to mingle. "Shall we dine?" "Better now than never." Stigandr laughed as the Warborn entered the Marching Fire's camp and then the Khan's large tent. As they sat down, men-at-arms served them, and the two leaders ate like close friends. "Not too shabby." Stigandr said. "A bit spicy, but fine nonetheless." "I am pleased to hear it." Khan Shu replied. "We take pride in our preparation of meals." "It shows." Stigandr said. "Can I ask something?" "Be my guest." "I'd like to see how you fight." Stigandr said. "Let's have two of our best spar for a bit." "Fine." Khan Shu replied as they exited, only to see such a duel was in already progress. The Raider, long axe in hand, was sparring with Maya Lin's hookswords to the delight and intrigue of both sides. "How does one man wield such a weapon?" the Khan asked Stigandr. "A Raider's long axe is more than a weapon. It is a companion and faithful instrument." Stigandr said. "Raiders like him spend their entire lives mastering the Long Axe. Though I personally prefer a shield and sword, Raiders care for their axes like their children." "Intriguing." the Khan said. "Why do they not wear armor?" "The moment of a Viking's death is chosen by the Gods." Runa said, coming forward. "So we run to embrace it when it comes, and thus we have no need for armor...or fear." The Khan laughed. "Brave and well-spoken." the Wu Lin ruler said. "I suppose now is the time we journey to meet your allies, the Chosen and Legion." "I suppose so." Stigandr said. "Hope you're up for a hike." As the two sides settled down and began to prepare for the march, Stigandr and the Khan left a small contingent of soldiers to guard the city. Soon, they were on the way to Ponyville, with the sun beginning to set in the sky. Author's Note Update! Chapter 1-Break of DawnThree days later Equestria's Southern Sea The sea was quiet. The waves were silent. Then, the sound of oars began to roar. Countless Viking longboats, packed to the brim with Chosen, Warborn, and Legion, along with supplies and arms, sailed towards the southern shore of Equestria. Faust had given them the order to take Ponyville first, as it was a vital supply hub for the Iron Pact, the alliance of Dragons, Minotaurs, and Griffons. In addition, it was where the Elements of Harmony were being kept, along with Twilight, who was kept as a prisoner of a sadistic Griffon Prince, Gallus. Faust had ordered that all three clans would march together, and leave no survivors, except one to tell the story. "Stigandr." The Viking Chieftain turned to see Cross and Ayu walk up, followed by the Orochi, the Warden, and the Raider. "We are nearing the coast. The Legion and Chosen wish to know how to beach the boats." "Run them aground." Stigandr said. "And then, we charge." "A fine plan." Cross said. "The land approaches." The large coast appeared, and as the boats ran aground into the sand, the Warborn and Legion set to the task of unload supplies and set up their camp, while Ayu dispatched three Chosen to scout ahead. ====== The three Samurai approached the town and hid themselves. They saw a Griffon surrounded by soldiers reading a list to the crowd of townsponies, and then, they saw the gallows, already set with three nooses. "For the crimes of theft, adultery, and assault, we condemn you all to death." The Griffon cackled at three ponies, bound and on their knees. "Send your final words." "I'm innocent!" One pony cried. "I did nothing wrong! That Griffon attacked me!" "I stole it to feed my starving family!" Another whimpered. "I hated my wife!" The third sobbed. "She never loved me!" "Enough! Hang them!" The Griffon roared. As the nooses were placed around their necks, two of the Samurai reached for their Nodachi, but the leader held them back. "There is nothing we can do." He said. "Their fate has been decided." The two Chosen nodded. As the Executioner swung the lever, the three ponies hung, limp in death. The Griffon dismissed the crowd, and the leader scowled at his laughing at the corpses. "We must go and tell Ayu." The lead samurai said to the two others. The three left, as quickly and silent as they came. The lead Samurai entered the Command tent and bowed to the assembled leaders. The Warden, Raider and Orochi glanced at him and returned to their discussion with Cross and Stigandr "What have you found?" Ayu asked. "The Griffons have soldiers occupying the town, armed in mail." He said. "We watched them hang three ponies for petty crimes, and the lead Griffon laughed at their demise." Ayu growled and stood up. "What is your name?" She asked. "Hayato, of the Asumi Clan." "Hayato, go to the forge and have your blade forged anew." Ayu said. "I hereby make you a Lieutenant under the Orochi. And you'll need some new armor worthy of your station. You'll be leading our troops with me and the Orochi when we begin the attack. Remember, you serve him now" "I will remember, and I thank you most greatly." Hayato said, bowing. He departed, and Ayu immediately alerted Cross and Stigandr, along with the others of the situation in the town. All agreed on Ayu's declaration and their decision. It was time to strike, at dawn's first light. Gallus walked into the bedroom of Twilight Sparkle, who sat glumly on her bed. Spike had been captured by the Dragons and taken away into the unknown, and her friends were prisoners elsewhere. She had become a Princess in name only, the unwilling fiance of Gallus. She had known Gallus from earlier negotiations, and learned he was fond of bedding females, and was rumored to have many illegitimate children. Gallus slinked up to Twilight, who scoffed and turned away. "Princess, you are not eating." He said, with mock concern. "I will not eat what you offer me." She replied. "It is the food of the conqueror." Gallus smiled and attempted to wrap his claw around her shoulder, but Twilight smacked it away. "Get your claws off me, you foul beast." She growled. "Equestria will never be yours, and neither will I submit to your perversion. Now, go before I blast you through the wall!." "As you wish." Gallus said, departing. He walked up to his own bedroom, and decided to relieve himself with one of his brood females. Twilight sighed and walked over to the window, and saw her old castle in the distance, still proud, but it had been looted by Gallus. "If there's anypony out there who can help, please help." she murmured. Ponyville, Equestria Just before the dawn Ayu, Cross, and Stigandr, their champions, Hayato, a Warborn Viking, and a Chosen Knight approached the gate, followed by ten of each clan's best warriors, handpicked for the attack. Ayu had proposed that the leaders and troops keep the enemy occupied while Hayato led the lieutenants to rescue the Princess, who could lead them to the other Elements of Harmony. "So, Warborn, what is your name?" Hayato asked the Viking, who looked young but strong. He possessed rust brown hair, and a small beard. "Valkan." the Viking replied. "And I am Andrew, of the Iron Legion." the Knight said, nodding to the Viking and the Samurai. "Hayato. I believe drinks are in order when we are done." Hayato said. "Focus, everyone! We cannot lose our path!" Cross said harshly. As they approached the City gates, Ayu noticed a company of Griffons armed with spears and swords standing by an alarm bell. "Shall we silence them, Ayu?" Hayato asked. "No. Let them come." Ayu said. "We will kill them all." "Just what I wanted to hear." Stigandr said. "Cross?" "Ready." Cross replied, putting on his great helm and drawing his halberd. "NOW!" The three cried in unison, and the city of Ponyville awoke to a ferocious cry of wolves that bellowed one thing. War. War and death. As the Griffons turned with weapons barely out of their sheathes, the warriors immediately engaged them in combat, slaughtering them. One managed to escape and began to frantically rang the alarm bell, only to be silenced by a slash from Hayato's nodachi. "Keep moving!" Cross bellowed. "Leave none standing!" The warriors roared a battle cry as their blades flashed in the morning sun, the dead falling to the ground like harvested wheat. The ponies who had just woken up to quiet now watched in horror and shock as the mysterious creatures killed countless Griffons, their blades and axes cutting throats, slicing away limbs, and decapitated still more. "Ayu!" Hayato cried. "We shall make for the castle!" "Go!" Ayu replied, as her blade sliced a Griffon's wings off, then slitting across his throat. Hayato motioned to Valkan and Andrew, and they broke off to the mansion on the hill, where Gallus resided, cutting through the house's perimeter. Then, before they could enter, a Griffon Lieutenant roared and leaped to the ground, bearing a Pike. "None shall enter the home of Prince Gallus!" he roared. Andrew strode forward and drew his longsword. The Griffon made the first attack, lunging with his Pike. Andrew weaved to the side and parried, his blade clanging against the shaft of the spear. The Griffon attempted several more lunges, only for Andrew to dodge each one of them and land several small cuts to the leg and midsection. Finally, the Griffon let his guard down for a strike to Andrew's legs, and as he lunged, Andrew sliced his wings off and sent his sword through his head. He scowled, pulled out his blade, and pushed the doors open. The Griffon guards and several servants took one look at them before they reacted. The maids screamed. The guards charged. The three warriors readied their weapons in reply, and the clashing of steel began to echo. ========= Gallus awoke to the carnage of war on his doorstep, the screams of the dying echoing all around him. He rushed out of bed to see three large beings, one clad in plate, one in furs, the last in armor, slaughtering his guard with ruthless efficiency. Gallus could do nothing but scream at the carnage, and the three warriors turned to him, the one clad in fur sheathing his sword and drawing a War Axe. Gallus tried to run, but quick as a flash of lightning, Valkan grabbed him by the throat and hoisted him into the air. "You are the one called Gallus, are you not?" the Warborn growled. "Who..are...you?" Gallus coughed weakly, attempting to claw his way free from Valkan's crushing grip, without success. "You are not worthy to know who we are." Hayato said. "Just know your iron reign is at an end." "Indeed." Andrew added. "Where is Princess Twilight?" "Go to...AHHK!" the Griffon squealed and coughed as Valkan crushed his throat tightly before slowly releasing. Gallus squealed before answering. "In the west wing!" he gagged, before Valkan released him, letting him collapse to the ground. "Please...spare me…have mercy..." he whimpered, trying to limp away pitifully. "You will find no mercy in us." Valkan growled, grabbing Gallus once more. "Andrew, Hayato, find the Princess. I'll bring this filth to Chieftain Stigandr." "Go." Andrew said, his long sword impaling a still-living Griffon in the head. Valkan rushed out with their prisoner and the two warriors approached the room where Twilight was kept hostage. Hayato cut the door down with two slices and a startled Twilight yelped in fear upon seeing them, and she ignited her horn to fend them off. Hayato sheathed his Nodachi and attempted to calm her down by raising his arms in a peaceful gesture and advancing slowly. "Do not be afraid, for we are allies." Andrew said. "We came to rescue you, Princess." "Who are you?" She said, shocked. "What are you?" "I am Andrew, of the Iron Legion. This is Hayato, of the Chosen. Our companion Valkan, of the Warborn is escorting your captor Gallus to our leaders. I suggest we get moving before reinforcements arrive. Quickly!" Twilight stopped breathing as fast as she was, and nodded. Andrew hoisted Twilight onto his shoulders, and nodded to the Samurai. Hayato and Knight walked out to see a satisfying sight had taken place. The three clans had overrun the town, and a large crowd of Griffons lay prisoner in the square, disarmed and frightened, whimpering in defeat. Hayato and Andrew walked up to the leaders of each clan, who were talking with Valkan about Gallus who lay whimpering beside them, Valkan's blade to his throat. "We have decided your fate." Cross said. "Go ahead, kill me." Gallus said. "Like the ones you laughed at?" Ayu said. "No. We have a better plan." "You will be a fine example of what will happen to those who resist us." Stigandr said, hoisting the Griffon and marching him to the gallows. The captured Griffons and the citizens of Ponyville watched in shock, horror, and fascination as the Warborn leader kicked Gallus to his knees. "Let it be known!" Stigandr roared. "That we, the Legion, Warborn, and Chosen of Ashfeld, have come to free Equestria from the filth who have conquered it. To those who stand with us...we promise freedom. To those who stand against us...we promise death. And this refuse of the gods shall be a fine example!" Stigandr then roared and carved out the Griffon's lungs, in the Viking execution known as the Bloody Eagle. As Gallus's blood flowed onto the gallows, the three leaders hoisted their united flag above Ponyville square. The warriors standing above the slain griffons raised their blades in triumph with a mighty cheer while the surviving guards looked at the bleeding corpse of Gallus as Stigandr stepped away to wash his hands of the blood that stained them. The Griffons were sickened at the image. A few of them vomited. Cross and the Legion then escorted the prisoners to the Ponyville Jail, while the Warborn and Chosen dealt with moving their camp from the beach to Ponyville. The villagers stared in awe at the armored figures now marching through their streets, with many of the ponies asking questions of them, with the humans answering curtly and quickly. “Who are they?” One pony asked while staring at a samurai wearing a blood-red demon mask as he passed by, followed by a Knight of the Blackstone Legion and a Warborn Viking. “Whoever they are, I’m glad they’re on our side.” Said another who was watching a large viking riddled with scars all over his body hoist bodies onto a wagon, three at a time. "They're scary." A filly said, and she was comforted by her mother. Then, the ponies saw the humans moving several carts full of loot from Gallus's treasury into the square. "Take what is yours, and only what is yours." A Chosen, backed by a Warborn and a Legion said to the crowd. "Those who violate this shall be punished." The ponies tentatively and quickly gathered their stolen belongings, and the things that belong to Princess Twilight were kept separate as to keep them safe. As the last of the ponies left, the cart was escorted to the Castle, where Cross, Ayu, and Stigandr were meeting with Twilight.. Upon seeing the cart full of books, her belongings, and more come forward, Twilight looked at Cross. "You...didn't take them?" She asked. "Were are not conquerors, but saviors." Cross replied curtly. "Let us begin." Twilight nodded, and used her newly-replenished magic to move her belongings into the house. "So, Princess…" Stigandr said, looking over a map of the surrounding area. "What do you know of the defenses in this area?" "The Iron Pact has set up defenses in nearly every major city. If we take the small towns and forts first, you'll have a growing supply of troops to use." Twilight said. "Problem is, Appleloosa is only accessible by train, and Cloudsdale only by flight-capable beings." "We'll take the land, then." Cross said, striding forward. "Where is the nearest fort we can take?" "Here, in the valley. The Griffons have a mining operation there, along with a considerable cache of food and resources." Twilight said, pointing to it. "Take that, and you'll have a good hold on this area. The fort falls, the land falls as well." "Right." Ayu said. "What of this Crystal Empire, here?" "It's safe, at least for now." Twilight said. "I owe you a great many thanks for saving myself and Ponyville. I will aid you however I can." "Thank you." Stigandr said. "We will move on the fort as soon as we can." While they spoke, Andrew heard a faint click come from the window. Striding over, he saw nothing but a bush...or so it seemed. Reaching into the foliage, he pulled out a pony with a camera. Throwing the spy to the floor, the noise attracted the attention of everyone else. Andrew's blade was soon at his throat. Twilight growled as she looked at him. "A spy?" Stigandr roared. "Yes. His name's Slippery Slope. He's the one who sold us out to the Griffons when they invaded." Twilight snapped. "And I think that camera's been recording our every move." Andrew grabbed Slope by the throat and pinned him to the table. Twilight's horned glowed, and it touched his head, before she pulled away. Andrew then turned his attention back to the brown-coated pony. "You were spying on us, weren't you?" he growled. Slope tried to reach for hidden dagger, only for the shaft of Cross's Halberd to smash into his arm, breaking it. Slope screamed in pain, and coughed out a weak "Yes." "Take him…" Cross said, but Twilight held up her hoof. "What is it?" he asked. "I have an idea as to what we can do with him." she said. Slope gulped nervously as Twilight whispered in Cross's ear, and his heart stopped at Cross's smile. "A fine idea." he said, grabbing the spy and pulling him up. "Listen closely." Cross barked. "I should kill you for spying on us, make an example of you like I did Gallus. But I have a better idea. You will be my courier to the Iron pact. You are to go and tell the leaders of this pact a message from us. Take this." Twilight handed him a bag, and Slope shuddered upon seeing a ball-sized object inside. "You are to go and give this to whoever leads your kind, with our regards." Cross said."Now, begone." Slope screeched in fright and ran away from the town, and he was gone. "Twilight…"Stigandr asked the alicorn. "He saw our defenses." "No, he didn't." Twilight said. "I saw everything. When you had him pinned down, I used a spell that wiped his memories of seeing your camp." "Fascinating." Ayu said. "But tell me one thing. What was in that bag?" "You'll see." Cross said. Canterlot, throne room. Slope stumbled into the throne room, into the presence of the Iron Pact leaders. Dragon Lord Garble… Emperor Iron Will.... And King Greisen. "What do you to report?" Greisen barked. Slope stammered, and held up the bag. Greisen took it, opened it, and then let it fall to the floor in horror. Garble and Iron Will stood up in shock. The decapitated head of Gallus, covered in his blood, along with his rings and broken crown, fell out. Garble blanched at the sight, and Iron Will, normally stalwart, felt a little nauseous. Greisen covered the message with the bag and looked out the window. "Greisen?" Garble asked. "Alert all of the cities to prepare for war." Greisen said. "They will pay. They will all pay." ======= Back in Ponyville, the residents had thrown the humans a large party, organized by Pinkie Pie, to honor them. To Cross, Ayu, and Stigandr, it was a welcome relief. The humans drank, ate, and talked with the ponies, and suffice to say, the leaders, though they enjoyed it, knew more battles lay ahead. "They rest now, but the war is far from over." Ayu said. "Indeed." Stigandr said, downing an entire mug of Cider in one gulp. "We must keep our strength up." "As well as our spirits." Cross said. "To us." "To us." the others raised their glasses as the party went on. Soon, the humans departed for their camp, few if any at all were drunk. They knew what lay ahead. In three days, they would take the mine. And they were ready. Author's Note I think this has been the longest chapter I've ever written, folks. TOTALLY WORTH IT. I own For Honor now, actually. Got it for my birthday. I just need to wait till Friday to play it. (I can't game on weekdays, because of High school.) And thanks for waiting!
Prolouge-The CouncilThe Great Council The Field of Union, Ashfield Through the tents and carts of the the three warrior clans, Faust slowly walked among them, disguised as a human female in a cloak. She remembered the day Equestria had surrendered to the combined armies of the Griffons, Dragons, and Minotaurs, all hungry for Equestria's wealth and plunder. The nation of ponies had suffered much. Faust had heard her pupil Celestia's cry from the Crystal Empire, and she had responded by coming to the world of humans, to the land of Ashfield. She had heard the stories of their power in war, their Vikings, Samurai, and Knights. Her first step was to see the envoy leader of the knights known as The Iron Legion. They occupied the upper part of the camp, and as most of the Knights were occupied with their duties, it was deserted. Faust tugged her hood over her head and entered the command tent of their leader, Cross. She was surprised to see him not in his tent, but outside of it, hacking away at scarecrows armed with wooden swords and shields. Faust took a moment to admire Cross's prowess with a Poleaxe. His weapon was relentless, carving through the scarecrows with ease. She watched as Cross cleaned his weapon of straw and fabric, before he noticed her. "Who are you?" He asked, in the human tongue. "An envoy." She replied. "I need council with the leaders of the Vikings and Samurai, or in your tongue, the Chosen and the Warborn." "For what reason?" Cross asked. "No one person can request a meeting with the clans, especially during these negotiations." "I am no mere person, for I am a god." Faust replied, uncloaking and shedding her disguise, revealing her alicorn form, in all of its glory. Cross fell to his knees, his head and eyes averted, due to the radiant light coming from her form. "It shall be done." He said. "But..who or what are you?" "I am Faust, goddess of Equis, bearer of life." She said. "Lift your head, Cross of the Iron Legion." Cross stood up shakily. "I have come because I need your help." She said. "My domain has fallen to conquerors. They did not possess the will to fight, but you do.I have seen your clans in war. Your clans, the Legion, the Chosen and the Warborn are my domain's last hope." "I will speak with the Council…" Cross said. "But I do not know if they will believe me." "Leave that concern to me." Faust replied, disguising herself once more and hiding her face. "I must speak to them at once." "I shall take you to the council." Cross said, as he and Faust walked to the middle of the camp, where a great fire was burning. The leader of the Chosen, Ayu, and the leader of the Warborn, Stigandr, watched as Cross and Faust approached. "Who is this, Cross?" Stigandr asked. "One who must speak to all of us." Cross replied. "If it is consentable." "Fine." Ayu said. "But make it quick." Stigandr said. "My warriors grow restless for their home." Faust stepped up in front of the fire, gathering the attention of all the humans. Faust took a deep breath, and hed her disguise, filling the area with pure light. As the shock wore off, the Warborn fell to their knees, the Legion flinched and gasped, and the Chosen muttered amongst themselves. "Hear me, humans." Faust cried. "I am Faust, the bearer of life, Goddess of Equis. Listen and hear. I come to you in my hour of need. My lands have been desecrated, my domain plundered, my people enslaved under an iron pact. You alone have the power to free them. I ask you to raise your steel and fight to reclaim this land. But know this, I do not ask this out of my own need. I have seen the destruction inflicted among you and this land. You are shattered, weary, famished from the fires of war. Your lands, broken. Your seas, shattered. Your steel soaked in blood of countless lives. But all will not be lost. For if you raise the war cry once more, and triumph in battle, I shall restore Ashfield to a paradise worthy of the gods, one that shall last for eternity, forever at peace. I ask you, I ask each and every one of the Warborn, Chosen, and Legion that stand before me, will you embark on this crusade? Who shall stand with me, to reclaim your land and honor? WHO SHALL STAND WITH ME?" There was silence. Then, Cross kneeled. "We stand with you. The Legion stands with you." Ayu kneeled next. "The Chosen stands with you." Stigandr kneeled. "The Warborn stand with you." Then, there was the sound of armor bending, and the three clans kneeled before Faust. Stigandr, Cross, and Ayu stood and looked at Faust. "Is this your will, Faust?" They asked. "It is." Faust replied. "Then we will fight." The leaders cried. "We will fight!" "Then assemble your armies, and come to the western coast when you are ready." Faust said. "I shall await your there, and guide you to my domain." "We will come." Cross said. "And we shall deliver." Faust nodded and disappeared in a flash of light. Cross, Ayu, and Stigandr looked to their clans, and raised their fists. One by one, every warrior present raised their own in reply. "We have work to do." Cross said. "Prepare the vessels!" Stigandr roared. "Ready our blades!" Ayu cried. "For our hope is in war!" Cross finished, and the three clans roared, roared with more fury than ever before nor since. ============ Equestria, Crystal Empire Celestia stood on the balcony of the Crystal Empire, praying before a small token on a shrine. Her eyes were filled with tears, that fell to the floor like the pouring rain. "Rise, my child." Celestia saw a orb of golden light appear in front of her. "Faust…" She said. "Forgive me, I have failed you." "You have not failed me." Faust said. "I know you did what you could to defend your land. But do not be afraid. I have succeeded in my task. Soon, Equestria will be liberated and your people will be free." Celestia could not speak, only nod. "They shall come on three day's dawn." Faust said. "Be ready. They are war, and war they shall bring." Faust disappeared, and Celestia smiled, the first time in quite a while.
Chapter 2-UnbrokenPonyville One Week since Capture Not much time had passed since the arrival of the Legion, Warborn, and Chosen, before the sparks of uprising began to take hold. In cities across Equestria, the smoldering fires of hope began to burn against the Iron Pact. However, there was still much work to do. The Stronghold in the Dovetail valley, occupied by Griffons, was also home to nearly 3,000 prisoners of war. They were used as slave labor in the iron mines nearby. Faust had communed with the Chosen, and selected them to take this fort. She had other plans for the Warborn and Legion, who were to assault a nearby fort as a diversion. As for Ponyville, the new capital of a fledgling Equestria, the Knights, Vikings, and Samurai were hailed as saviors. They were not like the swaggering Minotaurs, the greedy Dragons, or the conquering Griffons. Now, Ayu and the Orochi lead two hundred Samurai and many more men-at-arms against this stronghold, with orders to leave no Griffon alive. ==== Dovetail Mines Seven in the Morning "Ayu, we are ready." the Orochi said to his Leader. Ayu nodded and motioned for the Men-at-Arms to move up towards the fort. It was barely dawn, and as expected, when news of the combined Legion and Warborn attack reached the ears of the stronghold, the Griffons had rushed reinforcements to the battle, leaving few left at the Stronghold. And these few were fresh and unblooded, with ten captains and officers for nearly three hundred defenders. This was what Ayu was counting on to happen. Ayu and the Orochi crept through the brush like snakes as they approached the gate. "We shall silence them without mercy!." Ayu ordered to her troops. "NOW!" The Griffon defenders, still sleeping in their beds, were startled by a cry of war that shattered their resolve. A few officers managed to rally them and move them towards the gate. In their haste, half were armed, and even less were armored. The Gate was opened by the Keepers, and the Griffons streamed out with a battle cry… ...only to fall back in terror as the Chosen appeared, their blades ready and their armor shining. Ayu's naginata was the first to draw blood, piercing the skull of a Griffon clean through. The Chosen then raised their cry, and advanced into the fort with weapons high. The Orochi cleaved a Griffon's wings off before impaling him, staring at a group of soldiers whose officer he had just slaughtered. "Who's next?" he scoffed. The soldiers, enraged by their officer's demise, threw themselves at the Samurai. The Orochi merely grinned as his Nodachi began its bloody dance through their bodies. "Like lambs to the knife." he growled, as he beheaded one, slit the throat of a second, and stomped on a third's head. He advanced into the fort with seven Men-at-arms behind him. Then, from a balcony above him, a heavily armed and armored Griffon appeared with a roar of fury. "You demons shall not interfere!" he cried, drawing a broadsword. The Orochi merely scoffed and readied his Nodachi. The Griffon made the first move, slicing towards the Orochi's chest. The Samurai parried, landing a slash to the Griffon's lower knee. Taking the offensive, the Chosen warrior hacked away at the Griffon's armor, finally forcing the warrior to his knees, with Orochi's blade at his throat. "Do it! Kill me!" he barked. "You're no better than me!" "On the contrary, I am better." the Orochi scoffed as he stood back. "You fight well." "To hell with you!" was the reply. The Griffon attempted to throw a hidden dagger, but three swift strikes later, and the Griffon lay headless and armless on the ground. "Pitiful." the Orochi scoffed. "Orochi!" a Man-at-arms cried from the entrance. "The Griffons have surrendered the fort to us." "Good. Tell Ayu I will join her shortly. I will take a look around." Orochi entered the main office, and looked through the dead Griffon's papers. He was about to leave when he turned and saw something unusual. A map lay on the war table, with several pins stuck in it. The Orochi walked over, and peered at the paper. According to it, the Elements of Loyalty and Honesty were being held in a camp built on the other side of the nearby mountains. Kindness was in a city called "Manehattan", and Generosity was being kept in the capital of Canterlot. Furthermore, the Map displayed a perimeter around a "Crystal Empire" to the north, marked with "Heavy resistance, Do not challenge." The Orochi rolled the map up and placed it in his belt before heading outside. Ayu merely laughed as the Orochi approached, gesturing to the crowd of Griffon prisoners. "They surrendered once you entered the fort." Ayu scoffed. "We have no use for them." "I believe so, Ayu." Orochi replied. "It would be easier to kill them." "We are not like the Blackstones, nor Apollyon, Orochi." Ayu said. "We will find out what they know. And then we will use them as we see fit." "Understood." The Men-at-arms confined the Griffons in the fort's prison, while Ayu and the Orochi headed for the mines. === The prisoners in the mine woke up to a disturbing series of events. Their Guards were absent… Their chains were gone... And the doors were open. The three hundred ponies slowly exited the fort, and found the Chosen waiting for them, with food, weapons, and medicine. "Who leads among you?" Ayu asked. "I do." a pony stepped forward. "Brass Hoof, Third Solar Guards." "Brass Hoof." Ayu said. "Arm what warriors you have and head to Ponyville. Princess Twilight is expecting you. You will find relief there. Now go." "With pleasure." Brass said, saluting Ayu. "You have our thanks." The ponies departed, and Ayu turned to see a Legion Men-at-arms approach and bow. "Ayu, I have a message from Holden Cross." "Let me have it." Ayu said. The Runner handed her a scroll and stood to the side. Ayu unfurled the scroll and looked at the writing. Ayu, Our battle is won. The Griffons put up a good fight, but were vanquished in the end. We are returning to Ponyville with our prisoners and a sizeable amount of loot. Follow as soon as you can. Cross. Ayu nodded to the Runner, who retrieved the scroll before heading off. "Let us return home!" Ayu cried. Leaving one hundred to defend the fort, Ayu and her troops headed back to Ponyville, victorious.
Chapter 3-WarbornOne day after Chosen attack Everfree Forest Clearing The ground shook as a horde of Warborn, led by Stigandr and the Raider, marched towards the prison camp. The Chosen and Legion were elsewhere, occupied with other battles. "Good." Stigandr thought. "We will unleash Hell on these monsters." As the Warborn approached the cliff overlooking the camp, the Raider walked forward. "We are ready, Chieftain." he said, drawing his Long Axe. The many other Men-at-arms and Warborn fighters readied their own weapons. From what Stigandr could see, the camp had just woken up, and the prisoners were marching to assembly. ==== Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy marched with the other Equestrian prisoners to roll call. They expected it to be another day of back-breaking labor under the sadistic Griffons. Chopping trees, clearing roads, mining ore. They certainly didn't expect to hear a war-horn bellow through the trees. The Griffons looked to each other, not sure what was going on. The prisoners started to become nervous. Then came the scream of war. "VALHALLA!" came the Viking war-cry, as everyone in the camp saw the Warborn stream out of the forest like a torrential flood. "TO ARMS!" a Griffon lieutenant cried, just as the Warborn breached the gate. ==== The Raider smashed through the gate through sheer strength, and rammed a Griffon's head into the earth. The men-at-arms streamed in, their blades clashing against the Griffon armor. The Raider knew time was not on their side, and he hurled himself into the fray. ==== Rainbow and Fluttershy broke ranks and hid themselves behind a pile of crates as they watched the Raider enter combat. His axe shaft smashed the skull of a Griffon, before he hurled a shortsword into another's chest. The Raider was relentless, killing without mercy, as Griffon after Griffon fell to him. "You! MONSTER!" The Raider turned to see the Camp Commander, Gesher, stride forward with a polearm. The Warborn scoffed and readied his axe. "I will make you all pay!" Gesher screamed as he lunged. However, due to his error, Gesher leaped into the air, giving the Raider plenty of time to adapt and defend himself. He sidestepped and landed his axe blade into the Griffon's back, hoisting him up. The battle ceased as the Griffons, viewing the corpse of their leader, fell in surrender. The Raider laughed as he kicked the body off of his weapon's edge. He then roared a victory cry, echoed by the Warborn. The Raider turned to see Rainbow and Fluttershy huddling together. "Come out, little ones." Raider said. "We come as friends and kin." Rainbow took a defensive stance, but she and Fluttershy came out. The Valkyrie Runa stepped forward. "I'll take them to Ponyville." she said, shouldering her spear. "Let's go." The three of them, with Fluttershy still shaking from the carnage, left. Raider turned to the crowd of Griffons who had surrendered. "What now?" he asked himself. "We're Warborn. We don't take prisoners." "Correct." Faust said, through his mind. "You may dispose of them as you will. They took the Elements of Loyalty and Kindness, and you will show them none." "With pleasure!" Raider said out loud. Stigandr looked at him, and the Raider nodded. "Faust says kill them." Raider scoffed. The Chieftain gave a smile and the Men-at-arms descended on the terrified prisoners. ==== As the Warborn returned with their plunder, and news of their success, Twilight, Cross, and Ayu greeted them. "We've got good news." the Equestrian Princess said. "The Crystal Empire is sending reinforcements to us." "And we've managed to cause quite a stir among our enemies." Cross laughed. "They are in fear of us." "Let them." Stigandr said. "They will grow to embrace that fear." ==== Canterlot Lord Blueblood, Ruler of the Equestrian Domain, marched into the Iron Pact's chamber. Garble, Greisen, and Iron Will looked at him, as if expecting something. "They captured the camp." Blueblood spat. "And two more of the Elements of Harmony." "This is impossible!" Garble growled. "And just as the time comes to reclaim my right as Dragon Lord!" "We all have our responsibilities." Greisen said. "Blueblood, you will lead an army to Ponyville and kill every last one of these invaders. They have gained too much ground. They only have two Elements left to find, and once reunited, they will destroy us." "As you wish." Blueblood said. He departed, and Garble flew off towards the Dragon Lands. Iron Will looked at Greisen angrily. "You said there would be no chance of resistance." the Minotaur said. "You said it would be easy to conquer Equestria." "I did." Greisen said. "And yet these warriors come and decimate us!" Iron Will roared. "My forces are longing for home! We did not want conquest!" "And yet you shall have it!" Greisen roared. "Our pact is eternal!" "And yet I see otherwise." Iron Will said. "If they are not defeated by Blueblood, I and the Minotaur Kingdoms will desert the pact and you cannot stop us." "You would betray us?" Greisen asked. "Yes, if my demands are not met." Iron Will said. "I am no warmonger, unlike you." Greisen scoffed. "We will see." he sighed. "We will see." ==== The Raider walked through Ponyville towards Stigandr's tent, when he saw the yellow Pegasus approach him. "You are the frightened one from the camp." he said. "Yes." Fluttershy murmured. "I wanted to say thank you." "You are welcome." The Raider replied. "The Chieftain requires me. Farewell." Fluttershy smiled slightly as the Raider proceeded to the tent, where Stigandr was waiting. "Ah, just in time." said the Viking leader. "Our next raid is to the north of here. Towards a large supply fort we need to feed our ever-growing army." "Good." Raider said. "We shall send them to Hel." "Hel is too good for them!" Stigandr laughed. "Gather the men! We leave in two hours!" As the Warborn assembled, Cross and Twilight watched from afar. "Cross, are the Vikings normally so eager for battle?" asked Twilight. Cross smiled. "Yes." he said simply. "Yes, they are." Author's Note Update! Next time-Blueblood's attack on Ponyville.
Chaptet 4-GauntletBlueblood strode out towards the head of his troops, who saluted him with a cheer. "March out! Destroy the invaders!" he cried. "Do so and you will be greatly rewarded!" The war-cry was raised, and the mass of soldiers, Griffons, Minotaurs, and a few Dragons marched towards Ponyville, unaware they were being watched. ==== Rainbow Dash watched Blueblood's army march towards Ponyville, her eyes furrowing. Though the human healers and Equestrian medicine had healed her wings and body, she had mental scars that would never heal. Right now, she was scouting Blueblood's army for more than one reason. One, being she was asked to by Twilight. The other being rather simple. Revenge. Rainbow flew towards Ponyville, unnoticed in the bright blue sky. ==== "Twi!" Rainbow cried, bursting into a war council. "What's up?" Twilight replied, looking away from the map. "Blueblood's army is on the move." she said. "They'll be here soon." "We'll go met them." Cross said, grabbing his Halberd. "Any objections?" There were none. Cross smiled, motioned to the Warden and Andrew, and they assembled the Legion's Men-at-arms to march. To march head-on to meet their foes face-to-face. ==== As Blueblood's army approached Ponyville field, Cross, Warden, and Andrew stood in front of them. Cross had split his forces into three groups, to attack Blueblood's rear, left, and right flanks. As Blueblood approached, Cross approached. "Hah!" Blueblood scoffed. "Three of you? Against my army?" "We've faced worse." Cross said, placing his helmet on his head. "Surrender." "Never." Blueblood said. "We will kill every last one of you, without mercy." "Allow us to return the favor, then." Cross retorted, as The Warden and Andrew drew their longswords. The opposing army readied their own weapons, until Cross struck the ground three times with the shaft of his Halberd. It was the signal to attack. === Blueblood barely had time to yell "Prepare yourselves!" as the Legion soldiers stormed into the fray, catching Blueblood's army by surprise. Blueblood drew his rapier and barely had time to dodge a vicious slash from The Warden. He parried and thrusted his blade straight towards the Warden's heart, only for the pierce to barely dent The Warden's armor. Blueblood dodged several more attacks, watching as his forces were cut down like wheat. Then, Blueblood fired a blast of magic at The Warden, who was sent back several feet from the force. Blueblood then saw several of his warriors form a circle around him, as the Legion advanced. Then, Cross held up his hand. "You were entertaining, I'll give you that." Cross said. "I'll take you on myself." Blueblood drew a dagger and held it in his other hoof, as Cross readied his Halberd. Blueblood made the first strike, burying his dagger in Cross's chestplate. Cross struck Bluebood with the shaft in response, sending him sprawling. "Is that all you can muster?" Cross taunted. Blueblood responded with a growl and a massive thrust towards Cross's head… Only for his rapier's blade to shatter into pieces. Now weaponless, Blueblood tried to muster a Shield for defense, but a smash from Cross placed the Unicorn at the Lawbringer's mercy. "I dare you. Kill me." Blueblood scowled. "If you insist." Cross swung his Halberd into Blueblood's lower muzzle, before lifting him up and over himself. Finally, Cross rammed the shaft of his weapon through Blueblood's head. As Andrew helped The Warden to his feet, the remaining enemy soldiers dropped their weapons and surrendered. "Take them to Ponyville!" Cross said. "We'll deal with them later!" As the prisoners were escorted away, Cross looked to a burning mountain in the distance before following. ==== The Dragon Lands Pyre Mountain Garble walked into the heart of the volcano, smiling as his prisoners lay bound to two volcanic rocks. Spike and Ember snarled at the dragon, who laughed. "You dare snarl at the Dragon Lord?" Garble laughed. "Curse you!" Ember snarled. "You aren't Dragon Lord yet!" "I will be, once you give me the Scepter's location!" Garble yelled, clutching Ember's throat. "And you're going to give it to me!" "Never!" Ember hurled a gout of flame in his face, causing Garble to smack her. He nearly started the...breeding process...then and there, but he decided to wait through his anger. "You'll break. Sooner or later." Garble snarled as he left. Spike looked at Ember with a concerned expression. "Spike, don't go on me." Ember said. "We can take it." "I know." he said. "I just can't keep up." "You will." was the reply. "Remember, Twilight will come." "I know she will." Spike said as sweat poured from his brow. "I know." ==== As Garble walked into the Gauntlet of Fire, he smiled, seeing he was the only challenger. Then, he heard footsteps. "You've lost." Garble turned to see Torch appear in front of him. "I have not." Garble replied. "You do not have the Scepter." Torch said. "You will never be recognized by it." "I will once I have it." Garble said. "The title will be mine!" "We'll see." Torch replied, flying away. "We will see." ==== "I know Spike is there." Twilight said, watching the Volcano. "He has to be." "Twilight, I understand your need to find your friend." Ayu said. "But there are more pressing matters." "No, there aren't." Twilight growled. "I'm getting him out of there." "You won't." Cross said, coming forward. "Not alone." Twilight looked at the Lawbringer with curiosity. "I need a favor." he said. "The dragon's fire will destroy my armor. Can you prevent that?" Twilight smiled. "With pleasure." she said, casting a resistance spell on Cross, and his armor glowed with orange light. "That spell will make you immune to heat and flame of any kind." "Good." Cross said, grabbing his helmet. "Let's go." Twilight nodded and teleported them to the entrance to Pyre Mountain. ==== Torch saw the approaching Lawbringer and pony, and bowed to them. "Torch?" Twilight asked. "You have arrived just in time." Torch said. "Garble doesn't possess the Bloodstone Scepter, which will give him the right of Dragon Lord. Claim it, and this right will be yours." "Do you know where it is?" Cross asked. "I do." Torch said. "I had it removed from the Gauntlet and replaced with a fake. It is hidden under the mountain, in a special chamber." "Thank you, dragon." Cross said. "I will not fail." "I wish you luck." Torch replied. "Now, go." Author's Note Update!
Chapter 5-LawbringerAs the Gauntlet of Fire contenders began to assemble, Garble eyed the other competing dragons with contempt and disdain. There were ten Dragons total, and only one could win. And, Garble thought, that will be me. With a roar from Torch, the Contenders began their challenge through the gauntlet. ==== Torch watched Garble make his way through the various traps set to deter the contenders with a sigh. Earlier, the former Dragon Lord had made arrangements to let Cross and Princess Twilight recover the real Bloodstone Scepter, and free his daughter and Spike. There was still one problem, that being the many spies Garble had skulking about the mountain. They were not known, and though they could not communicate with Garble indirectly, all were still a threat to Torch. He slowly made his way to the cave where he had hidden the real Scepter, where Cross and Twilight were waiting. ==== "Has it begun?" Cross asked as Torch approached. "It has commenced." Torch said. "I have also figured out where Garble is keeping my daughter and Spike. Inside the magma chamber of the mountain, where only the Dragon Lord can access." "That's a problem." Twilight said. Cross then strode forward and put on his helmet. "Yet there is always a solution." the Lawbringer said, taking the Scepter. "I have a plan." "Enlighten me." Torch said, pleased. "With pleasure." Cross said. "Here is what we shall do…" As Garble approached the summit of the mountain, he eyed the Bloodstone Scepter with greed clear in his eyes. As he took hold of it, a bell sounded. "I am Dragon Lord!" Garble proclaimed as he descended to the base of the mountain. "Bow before me!" Channeling the Scepter's power, he assumed its power would force the Dragons to do as he said. Except it did not. Garble stood aghast as the Bloodstone cracked and fell apart. Whispers spread through the crowd, and Garble realized he had been tricked. "WHO!?" he roared, spitting a gout of flame. "Who dared do this?" There were footsteps, and Torch walked forward. "I did." he said. "Garble, your time has come at last. Your reign is over." "You cannot take me, old one!" Garble yelled. "True." Torch siad. "I will not take you. But my allies will." Cross strode forward, and tossed the real Scepter onto the ground. "May I present Holden Cross…Envoy of the Iron Legion." Torch said. "As he is my second, I challenge you for the right of Dragon Lord." Garble roared with fury. "TRAITOR!" he screamed. "You betrayed your Dragon Lord!" "I was never on your side." Torch said. "And you are not Dragon Lord, and you never will be again. Trial by combat, right now." Garble scoffed and strode forward to face Cross, who readied his Polearm. Torch slammed the ground, and the duel began. ==== As Garble's claws raked across Holden's armor, the Lawbringer countered with several hits to his chest before a heavy, upwards blow to his chin. The dragons murmured in awe as Garble was sent sprawling to the ground. It was not long, however, before Garble spat a stream of flame towards Cross, intending to incinerate him. The fire would've consumed a normal man. But Holden Cross was no normal man. Garble watched in fury as the fire harmlessly drained off of Cross's armor, as it the fire was a light shower of water. "Impossible!" Garble screamed. "You should be in ashes! Burnt alive!" "I should be, yes." Cross said. "But I am not." With that, Cross stomped on Garble's left foot and smashed the bones inside, before landing a heavy blow to his right side. Garble was sent sprawling to the ground, moaning from his broken foot. Cross then picked up the Dragon by the throat and hurled him to the ground, before placing him at Cross's mercy. "I win." Cross said. "Yield." "Never!" Garble roared, hurling the last of his flame reserves straight into Cross's face. The heat would've burned stone to ash and molten rock. Except Legion-forged, battle-honed steel is not stone. Especially when enchanted to resist all forms of flame and heat. The fire was repelled by the magical aura, and Cross decided to finish his opponent. He swung his halberd down and hooked Garble's neck, pulling him up. Cross then released his grip, and as Garble flew past him, he slammed his polearm into the back of his skull. Dragon Scale is extremely sturdy, able to resist not only flame, but blunt-force injuries as well. However, no matter how strong a Dragon is, his scales never grow stronger than steel. That was proven as Cross's polearm nearly decapitated the former Dragon Lord. As he kicked the corpse off of his his axe, Torch bowed before him. And every dragon did suit. Cross was handed the Bloodstone scepter, and he raised it into the air. "Show me to Spike and Ember!" he commanded. As if on cue, a rock face shattered, revealing the magma chamber. Cross entered, and soon found the two Dragons nearly dead from heat. As he broke their chains, Spike looked up at the Lawbringer. "Thank you…" he said before he finally passed out. Ember and Cross helped the little dragon out of the heat, and into the safety of Twilight's arms. ==== "You'll be fine, won't you, Ember?" Twilight asked. "Are you okay with being Dragon Lord?" "I'll be fine." she replied, accepting the Scepter from Cross. "Twilight, Holden Cross, the Dragons of Equis are at your service." "We will find glory together." Cross said, shaking her hand. "I hope to fight alongside you in battle one day." "I do so as well." Ember said. "If you need anything, you'll have it." As Twilight, Spike, and Cross teleported home, a Griffon, perched behind a cloud, spied on them through a telescope. He folded the telescope and put it away, before flying full speed to Equestria and Canterlot. Author's Note Next time-The Chosen attack a supply depot, and the Warborn head to the Crystal Empire. Also, sorry this took so long.
Chapter 6-Warborn PridePonyville Warborn Camp As Twilight and Cross headed through the Warborn camp to find Stigandr, they were curious at the lack of Vikings moving about. "Where's Stigandr?" Cross asked. "Where is everyone?" "No clue. Pinkie's missing, too." Twilight said. "Applejack also said three crates of Cider are also gone.'' Then, shouts of laughter and raucous chanting came from the central area. Cross and Twilight entered, and both could not help but do two things. Cross snorted in amusement. Twilight did the same, but with less enthusiasm. The Warborn were reveling in the missing cider, and at the high table, Pinkie and Stigandr were engaged in what was most definitely a drinking contest. And neither one seemed able to give in. A ever-growing pile of frothy mugs lay beside each of them, and Runa, standing next to Helvar, were roaring with laughter. "What's going on here?' Cross asked Runa. "Just a bit of friendly competition, Cross!" Runa laughed. "I never thought someone could out-drink the Jarl!" "Neither did I!" Helvar roared. "And look at the Raider!" Cross and Twilight saw the Raider standing nearby, sipping Cider and chuckling occasionally. "He's never been like this before!" Runa chortled. Cross rolled his eyes and pulled up a chair. "You're going to watch this?" Twilight asked. "It's at least entertainment." Cross replied, taking a drink. "Gods, this is very good. No wonder the Vikings are drunk as lords." Twilight rolled her eyes and sat next to Cross to watch the match. Stigandr and Pinkie had their eyes locked in a mutual respect, and they interlocked their arms before they both downed an entire glass of cider in one gulp. "Hah! Nobody out-drinks a Viking! Especially not a Jarl!" Stigandr said. "We'll see about that!" Pinkie retorted playfully. "I've won Ponyville's Cider-drink off for the last five years straight!" Cross looked at Twilight with a raised eyebrow. "It's true." Twilight shrugged. "Pinkie loves her cider." "Hey, Jarl!" said a footsoldier. "We're almost out of cider!" There was silence, until Twilight stood up with Cross. "We'll get more." she said, rolling her eyes. There was a roar of approval and cheer, and the Raider came forward. "Let me aid you." he said. "Those hooligans have had too much to drink." "Oh, don't you know it." Twilight said. "Place your bets." "Jarl Stigandr, of course." the Raider replied. "Pinkie." Twilight said. "She's even more of a cider addict then Rainbow Dash, and she could drink the town dry." "What about you, Cross?" the Raider asked. "I wager they'll tie." Cross said. "Frankly, I can't decide." "Fair enough." the Raider said. "Let's go get that cider." ==== By the time the three of them came back with whatever Cider Applejack could spare, it seemed that Pinkie had finally gained the upper hand. She was ahead by two mugs, and Stigandr seemed to be slowing down. "You'll...never...urp...beat me!" Stigandr said with a slurred voice, just as he collapsed into a heap. Every Warborn froze, and looked Pinkie with stunned eyes. "I win." she said. "Drinks are on me!" The Warborn gave another roar of pride as they began carting Pinkie's chair and Pinkie herself around the room. "I'll handle this." Raider said. "You two head on out." Twilight rolled her eyes as she left with Cross, back towards Ponyville. ==== "Twilight?" Applejack asked on their return. "What did you need all that cider for, anyway?" "The Warborn." Twilight said. "They seem to enjoy it." "Too much." Cross added. "We'll compensate you for it." "Eh, not a problem." Applejack shrugged. "One more question. Did you give them the ones from the red shack?" "I think so, why?" Twilight asked. "And that's your problem." Applejack said. "That cider's been ageing in there for as long as I've lived, possibly longer. Cider like that would knock Bic Mac out cold with a few sips." "Apparently not the Warborn." Cross laughed. "Your friend Pinkie out-drank Jarl Stigandr with that stuff." "That's nothing new." Applejack said as they walked with them. "Pinkie could out-drink Rainbow Dash, and she's addicted to the stuff." As the three of them headed to Town Hall, Ayu and the Orochi headed to the Chosen Camp. "What's the plan, Ayu?" asked the Emperor's Champion. "We need supplies to feed our armies." Ayu replied. "This depot here in the valley should serve our needs." "We'll leave immediately." the Orochi replied. "Have Hayato come, too. I want to test him." "As you wish." Ayu replied. "He is a capable warrior." "I don't doubt it." the Orochi replied. "Not at all." ===== By the time Jarl Stigandr and the Warborn had recovered from the Cider, Twilight had summoned them to her castle. By this time, it was now late evening. "What's the matter?" Stigandr asked. "We need more allies." Twilight said. "My brother and my sister-in-law at the Crystal Empire should be able to aid us." She pointed it out on the map. "Princess Celestia sought refuge there, and we need her help." she continued. "I've gotten a train running to take you here." "The hell's that?" Stigandr asked. Twilight sighed, remembering the warriors of Ashfeld had never seen a train, let alone think of one. "I'll show you." Twilight said. "It's a large series of metal carriages that can move like one of your horses, and even faster. We use them as transport." "I see." Stigandr said. "Show us." ==== As the Warborn arrived at the Train Yard, Stigandr smiled at the express train. "This thing moves on its own?" he asked. "Yep." Twilight said. "We've been developing technological marvels while you've been away." "Well, here goes nothing!" Stigandr laughed as he got on. Sitting down, he smiled. "Come on in, boys!" he said. "It won't bite!" The Warborn filed in as one, the Raider taking the helm. "I'll also be coming." Twilight said. "Mostly to make sure nobody panics." As the Train sounded a whistle and lurched forward, Stigandr looked out the window. "By the gods, she's right!" he laughed. "We could use these back home!" "Oh, you can use them in a lot of situations." Twilight said. "Let me tell you, Jarl Stigandr." As the Train proceeded towards the Empire, the sun began to fully set. Author's Note Next time-The Chosen raid the supply depot, and the Warborn arrive at the Empire.
Chaptef 7-The Marching FireAs the train stopped in the Crystal Empire, Twilight, Stigandr and the Warborn disembarked to a light snowfall. "Like Valkenheim in spring." Stigandr said. "Light snow, calm breeze." "Indeed." Twilight said. As they approached the Palace, Celestia, Shining Armor, and Cadance came out to meet them. As Twilight embraced her mentor and family, Stigandr and his warriors stood at a respectful distance. "These are some of the warriors that came to free Equestria?" Celestia asked. "Indeed." Stigandr said. "Jarl Stigandr, of the Viking Warborn clans." "My honor, Jarl." Celestia said, shaking his hand. "And the others?" "The Samurai Chosen and the Knight Legions are fighting the Griffons." Stigandr said. "The dragons are now rebelling on our side, thanks to Holden Cross." Celestia was astounded. "I am grateful." Celestia replied. "With luck, Equis will soon be free." "Let's not get ahead of ourselves." the Raider said, coming forward. "We've got work to do." As they all reentered the Palace, they had no idea their efforts were about to receive unexpected aid... ==== Manehattan Three Hours earlier A centerpiece of the Iron Pact's rule over Equestria, Manehattan was where the four races of the pact mingled together. However, the city served more purposes than just that. Many of the supplies needed to run the Iron Pact's empire came from the city's great harbor, and such was heavily guarded by a naval fleet and ground soldiers. So when foreign ships bearing the gilded red flag of an eastern dragon came into their waters, the Pact's fleet went out to meet them...and were destroyed in a great battle visible from the city itself. Then, as the ships bearing the dragon flag docked and the Pact's ground forces came to attack, they were beset upon by human men-at-arms wearing armor similar to the Samurai, only more lightweight. Then four figures appeared on the deck of the Dragon fleet's flagship, and began to admire the battle below. "Beautiful, isn't it?" said one, wearing a monk's robes and armed with a staff. "They fight with ferocity, but they lack one crucial thing." "What is that, Mu Tan?" said another, who wore assassin's robes and carried two hook-bladed swords. "Coordination." Mu Tan replied, as he watched the Iron Pact's forces be turned back. "They have no leadership visible in the field, Maya Li." "Whether or not, they are still our enemies." Maya Li said. "Is that not our task, uncle Shang?" "Indeed." said the elderly one of the group, who carried a spear. "General, your thoughts?" The final one of the group nodded. This was Khan Shu, Prince of the Wu Lin Dynasty, and General of their army, known as the Marching Fire. Years ago, they had learned of the Samurai Chosen through ancient diplomacy, and by extension the Knights and Vikings. The old King of the Wu Lin and Khan's father had wanted to conquer them. That is, until he died and Shu, now Khan Shu, ascended to the throne. On the night of his coronation, he had dreamt of a white horse with a red mane and a horn and wings, who had spoken to him. She had told him of how she had brought the Knights, Samurai, and Vikings to Equestria to free her home, and how the Marching Fire must aid them. "How?" Khan Shu had asked. "We know not the path to this land, nor what awaits us." "I shall guide and protect you until you reach my shores." Faust had replied. "Khan Shu, your future shall be one of wealth and peace, if only you follow my lead." Then, Khan Shu woke up and saw a star, brighter than all others, gleaming in the night sky. As the morning came, he had rallied the Marching Fire and manned whatever vessels he could. Leaving his father's ministers, elders of his people to rule in his absence, for they were skilled in manners of the state, he followed the star to Equestria by night. Now, he and his Marching Fire would unite with those who came before them, and crush this Iron Pact like grass underfoot. "My Khan." Khan Shu turned to Shang Li, and they turned to the battlefield. "Now is the time." Shang Li said. "Lead your Marching Fire to victory." As Khan took his Dao and entered the fray, his three retainers followed suit. ==== Back in the Crystal Empire, Stigandr, the Raider, and the Royals of the Empire were dining on a specially prepared feast. Shining Armor found himself fascinated by the warrior culture of the Vikings, and was discussing it with the Jarl. Cadance spoke with Runa about her time as a Valkyrie, and the Raider let a young Flurry Heart play with his long, braided beard. Then, a bright light appeared in the room. As the Vikings stood up, Faust appeared before them. "Faust." Stigandr said. "How's things?" Faust laughed and smiled at the Jarl. "Not the greeting I was expecting." the Alicorn of Life replied. "Stigandr, you will march to Manehattan at daybreak." "Manehattan?" Celestia asked. "That is the Iron Pact's major stronghold. Faust, why must they go there?" "Because it has fallen." Faust said with pride. "A new faction of humans has come to Equestria at my call. They are known as the Wu Lin, or the Marching Fire. I brought them here as allies." "Marching Fire, huh?" Stigandr said. "Alright, one question. When do we meet them?" "Soon, Jarl Stigandr." Faust said. "Know they will be apprenhensive of you at first, but earn their respect at they shall be forever your allies. They are unparalleled in their own arts of war, and you must treat them with respect and honor." "We'll be fine, Faust." the Raider said. "We're Vikings, diplomacy is something we excel at." Faust chuckled at the Raider's comment. "Of course." she said. "Celestia, before I go, I must tell you one last thing." "What is it?" Celestia asked. "Princess Luna will soon return." Faust said. "Farewell." As the light and Faust's form faded, Helvar chuckled. "Hey, Jarl?" he asked. "Can we finish eating before we go?" "Well, what do you think?" Stigandr laughed as the feasting resumed. "Of course, you idiot, who do you think we are? We're Vikings!" As the table laughed, Stigandr leaned back in his chair.. "Marching Fire, huh?" he smirked. "I wonder how Cross and Ayu will take this." ==== As daybreak came, the Vikings prepared for the journey to Manehattan. Using Celestia, Cadance, and Twilight's alicorn magic, they would be teleported a few miles north of the city, near the Marching Fire's camp. "Get back to Ponyville safe, you hear me?" Stigandr told Twilight. "Of course." Twilight said as the Vikings assembled. "You set?" "Ready!" the Raider said. As the three alicorns cast the teleportation spell, the Vikings vanished in a flash of multicolored light. ==== At the same time, the Marching Fire began to rise from their rest. After defeating the Iron Pact forces and setting up a base camp north of the city, Khan Shu had begun preparations for a long march to Ponyville. Except the Khan did not expect to be woken up by a soldier reporting that there were strange men at the gate. "I will deal with this." the Khan had said while he prepared his armor. "Do not attack them, but be ready." Now, the Khan and his three Generals approached the strange men. They wore fur, leather, and mail, and the Khan was surprised to see one of them wore little armor at all! "May your leader come forward!" Maya Lin had proclaimed. A large man, wearing a bear's head and carrying a round shield and sword, approached. "As you wish." he said. "I am Jarl Stigandr of the Viking Warborn Clans. I suppose you are the Marching Fire we've heard so much about?" "Indeed." Khan Shu said. "I am Shu, Khan of the Wu Lin Dynasty, High General of the Marching Fire. My honor, Jarl Stigandr." The two leaders shook hands, and bowed to each other. "So, where do we start?" Stigandr asked. "Something to eat, maybe?" "If that is what you desire." Khan Shu had said. "We have ample supplies with us. However, our traditional meals may not be to your liking or tastes." "I suppose you'll need to show us, then." Stigandr replied. "if you'd be so kind." Khan Shu laughed and offered his hand again. "Of couse, Jarl Stigandr." he replied as they shook hands once again and the two sides began to mingle. "Shall we dine?" "Better now than never." Stigandr laughed as the Warborn entered the Marching Fire's camp and then the Khan's large tent. As they sat down, men-at-arms served them, and the two leaders ate like close friends. "Not too shabby." Stigandr said. "A bit spicy, but fine nonetheless." "I am pleased to hear it." Khan Shu replied. "We take pride in our preparation of meals." "It shows." Stigandr said. "Can I ask something?" "Be my guest." "I'd like to see how you fight." Stigandr said. "Let's have two of our best spar for a bit." "Fine." Khan Shu replied as they exited, only to see such a duel was in already progress. The Raider, long axe in hand, was sparring with Maya Lin's hookswords to the delight and intrigue of both sides. "How does one man wield such a weapon?" the Khan asked Stigandr. "A Raider's long axe is more than a weapon. It is a companion and faithful instrument." Stigandr said. "Raiders like him spend their entire lives mastering the Long Axe. Though I personally prefer a shield and sword, Raiders care for their axes like their children." "Intriguing." the Khan said. "Why do they not wear armor?" "The moment of a Viking's death is chosen by the Gods." Runa said, coming forward. "So we run to embrace it when it comes, and thus we have no need for armor...or fear." The Khan laughed. "Brave and well-spoken." the Wu Lin ruler said. "I suppose now is the time we journey to meet your allies, the Chosen and Legion." "I suppose so." Stigandr said. "Hope you're up for a hike." As the two sides settled down and began to prepare for the march, Stigandr and the Khan left a small contingent of soldiers to guard the city. Soon, they were on the way to Ponyville, with the sun beginning to set in the sky. Author's Note Update!
Chapter 1-Break of DawnThree days later Equestria's Southern Sea The sea was quiet. The waves were silent. Then, the sound of oars began to roar. Countless Viking longboats, packed to the brim with Chosen, Warborn, and Legion, along with supplies and arms, sailed towards the southern shore of Equestria. Faust had given them the order to take Ponyville first, as it was a vital supply hub for the Iron Pact, the alliance of Dragons, Minotaurs, and Griffons. In addition, it was where the Elements of Harmony were being kept, along with Twilight, who was kept as a prisoner of a sadistic Griffon Prince, Gallus. Faust had ordered that all three clans would march together, and leave no survivors, except one to tell the story. "Stigandr." The Viking Chieftain turned to see Cross and Ayu walk up, followed by the Orochi, the Warden, and the Raider. "We are nearing the coast. The Legion and Chosen wish to know how to beach the boats." "Run them aground." Stigandr said. "And then, we charge." "A fine plan." Cross said. "The land approaches." The large coast appeared, and as the boats ran aground into the sand, the Warborn and Legion set to the task of unload supplies and set up their camp, while Ayu dispatched three Chosen to scout ahead. ====== The three Samurai approached the town and hid themselves. They saw a Griffon surrounded by soldiers reading a list to the crowd of townsponies, and then, they saw the gallows, already set with three nooses. "For the crimes of theft, adultery, and assault, we condemn you all to death." The Griffon cackled at three ponies, bound and on their knees. "Send your final words." "I'm innocent!" One pony cried. "I did nothing wrong! That Griffon attacked me!" "I stole it to feed my starving family!" Another whimpered. "I hated my wife!" The third sobbed. "She never loved me!" "Enough! Hang them!" The Griffon roared. As the nooses were placed around their necks, two of the Samurai reached for their Nodachi, but the leader held them back. "There is nothing we can do." He said. "Their fate has been decided." The two Chosen nodded. As the Executioner swung the lever, the three ponies hung, limp in death. The Griffon dismissed the crowd, and the leader scowled at his laughing at the corpses. "We must go and tell Ayu." The lead samurai said to the two others. The three left, as quickly and silent as they came. The lead Samurai entered the Command tent and bowed to the assembled leaders. The Warden, Raider and Orochi glanced at him and returned to their discussion with Cross and Stigandr "What have you found?" Ayu asked. "The Griffons have soldiers occupying the town, armed in mail." He said. "We watched them hang three ponies for petty crimes, and the lead Griffon laughed at their demise." Ayu growled and stood up. "What is your name?" She asked. "Hayato, of the Asumi Clan." "Hayato, go to the forge and have your blade forged anew." Ayu said. "I hereby make you a Lieutenant under the Orochi. And you'll need some new armor worthy of your station. You'll be leading our troops with me and the Orochi when we begin the attack. Remember, you serve him now" "I will remember, and I thank you most greatly." Hayato said, bowing. He departed, and Ayu immediately alerted Cross and Stigandr, along with the others of the situation in the town. All agreed on Ayu's declaration and their decision. It was time to strike, at dawn's first light. Gallus walked into the bedroom of Twilight Sparkle, who sat glumly on her bed. Spike had been captured by the Dragons and taken away into the unknown, and her friends were prisoners elsewhere. She had become a Princess in name only, the unwilling fiance of Gallus. She had known Gallus from earlier negotiations, and learned he was fond of bedding females, and was rumored to have many illegitimate children. Gallus slinked up to Twilight, who scoffed and turned away. "Princess, you are not eating." He said, with mock concern. "I will not eat what you offer me." She replied. "It is the food of the conqueror." Gallus smiled and attempted to wrap his claw around her shoulder, but Twilight smacked it away. "Get your claws off me, you foul beast." She growled. "Equestria will never be yours, and neither will I submit to your perversion. Now, go before I blast you through the wall!." "As you wish." Gallus said, departing. He walked up to his own bedroom, and decided to relieve himself with one of his brood females. Twilight sighed and walked over to the window, and saw her old castle in the distance, still proud, but it had been looted by Gallus. "If there's anypony out there who can help, please help." she murmured. Ponyville, Equestria Just before the dawn Ayu, Cross, and Stigandr, their champions, Hayato, a Warborn Viking, and a Chosen Knight approached the gate, followed by ten of each clan's best warriors, handpicked for the attack. Ayu had proposed that the leaders and troops keep the enemy occupied while Hayato led the lieutenants to rescue the Princess, who could lead them to the other Elements of Harmony. "So, Warborn, what is your name?" Hayato asked the Viking, who looked young but strong. He possessed rust brown hair, and a small beard. "Valkan." the Viking replied. "And I am Andrew, of the Iron Legion." the Knight said, nodding to the Viking and the Samurai. "Hayato. I believe drinks are in order when we are done." Hayato said. "Focus, everyone! We cannot lose our path!" Cross said harshly. As they approached the City gates, Ayu noticed a company of Griffons armed with spears and swords standing by an alarm bell. "Shall we silence them, Ayu?" Hayato asked. "No. Let them come." Ayu said. "We will kill them all." "Just what I wanted to hear." Stigandr said. "Cross?" "Ready." Cross replied, putting on his great helm and drawing his halberd. "NOW!" The three cried in unison, and the city of Ponyville awoke to a ferocious cry of wolves that bellowed one thing. War. War and death. As the Griffons turned with weapons barely out of their sheathes, the warriors immediately engaged them in combat, slaughtering them. One managed to escape and began to frantically rang the alarm bell, only to be silenced by a slash from Hayato's nodachi. "Keep moving!" Cross bellowed. "Leave none standing!" The warriors roared a battle cry as their blades flashed in the morning sun, the dead falling to the ground like harvested wheat. The ponies who had just woken up to quiet now watched in horror and shock as the mysterious creatures killed countless Griffons, their blades and axes cutting throats, slicing away limbs, and decapitated still more. "Ayu!" Hayato cried. "We shall make for the castle!" "Go!" Ayu replied, as her blade sliced a Griffon's wings off, then slitting across his throat. Hayato motioned to Valkan and Andrew, and they broke off to the mansion on the hill, where Gallus resided, cutting through the house's perimeter. Then, before they could enter, a Griffon Lieutenant roared and leaped to the ground, bearing a Pike. "None shall enter the home of Prince Gallus!" he roared. Andrew strode forward and drew his longsword. The Griffon made the first attack, lunging with his Pike. Andrew weaved to the side and parried, his blade clanging against the shaft of the spear. The Griffon attempted several more lunges, only for Andrew to dodge each one of them and land several small cuts to the leg and midsection. Finally, the Griffon let his guard down for a strike to Andrew's legs, and as he lunged, Andrew sliced his wings off and sent his sword through his head. He scowled, pulled out his blade, and pushed the doors open. The Griffon guards and several servants took one look at them before they reacted. The maids screamed. The guards charged. The three warriors readied their weapons in reply, and the clashing of steel began to echo. ========= Gallus awoke to the carnage of war on his doorstep, the screams of the dying echoing all around him. He rushed out of bed to see three large beings, one clad in plate, one in furs, the last in armor, slaughtering his guard with ruthless efficiency. Gallus could do nothing but scream at the carnage, and the three warriors turned to him, the one clad in fur sheathing his sword and drawing a War Axe. Gallus tried to run, but quick as a flash of lightning, Valkan grabbed him by the throat and hoisted him into the air. "You are the one called Gallus, are you not?" the Warborn growled. "Who..are...you?" Gallus coughed weakly, attempting to claw his way free from Valkan's crushing grip, without success. "You are not worthy to know who we are." Hayato said. "Just know your iron reign is at an end." "Indeed." Andrew added. "Where is Princess Twilight?" "Go to...AHHK!" the Griffon squealed and coughed as Valkan crushed his throat tightly before slowly releasing. Gallus squealed before answering. "In the west wing!" he gagged, before Valkan released him, letting him collapse to the ground. "Please...spare me…have mercy..." he whimpered, trying to limp away pitifully. "You will find no mercy in us." Valkan growled, grabbing Gallus once more. "Andrew, Hayato, find the Princess. I'll bring this filth to Chieftain Stigandr." "Go." Andrew said, his long sword impaling a still-living Griffon in the head. Valkan rushed out with their prisoner and the two warriors approached the room where Twilight was kept hostage. Hayato cut the door down with two slices and a startled Twilight yelped in fear upon seeing them, and she ignited her horn to fend them off. Hayato sheathed his Nodachi and attempted to calm her down by raising his arms in a peaceful gesture and advancing slowly. "Do not be afraid, for we are allies." Andrew said. "We came to rescue you, Princess." "Who are you?" She said, shocked. "What are you?" "I am Andrew, of the Iron Legion. This is Hayato, of the Chosen. Our companion Valkan, of the Warborn is escorting your captor Gallus to our leaders. I suggest we get moving before reinforcements arrive. Quickly!" Twilight stopped breathing as fast as she was, and nodded. Andrew hoisted Twilight onto his shoulders, and nodded to the Samurai. Hayato and Knight walked out to see a satisfying sight had taken place. The three clans had overrun the town, and a large crowd of Griffons lay prisoner in the square, disarmed and frightened, whimpering in defeat. Hayato and Andrew walked up to the leaders of each clan, who were talking with Valkan about Gallus who lay whimpering beside them, Valkan's blade to his throat. "We have decided your fate." Cross said. "Go ahead, kill me." Gallus said. "Like the ones you laughed at?" Ayu said. "No. We have a better plan." "You will be a fine example of what will happen to those who resist us." Stigandr said, hoisting the Griffon and marching him to the gallows. The captured Griffons and the citizens of Ponyville watched in shock, horror, and fascination as the Warborn leader kicked Gallus to his knees. "Let it be known!" Stigandr roared. "That we, the Legion, Warborn, and Chosen of Ashfeld, have come to free Equestria from the filth who have conquered it. To those who stand with us...we promise freedom. To those who stand against us...we promise death. And this refuse of the gods shall be a fine example!" Stigandr then roared and carved out the Griffon's lungs, in the Viking execution known as the Bloody Eagle. As Gallus's blood flowed onto the gallows, the three leaders hoisted their united flag above Ponyville square. The warriors standing above the slain griffons raised their blades in triumph with a mighty cheer while the surviving guards looked at the bleeding corpse of Gallus as Stigandr stepped away to wash his hands of the blood that stained them. The Griffons were sickened at the image. A few of them vomited. Cross and the Legion then escorted the prisoners to the Ponyville Jail, while the Warborn and Chosen dealt with moving their camp from the beach to Ponyville. The villagers stared in awe at the armored figures now marching through their streets, with many of the ponies asking questions of them, with the humans answering curtly and quickly. “Who are they?” One pony asked while staring at a samurai wearing a blood-red demon mask as he passed by, followed by a Knight of the Blackstone Legion and a Warborn Viking. “Whoever they are, I’m glad they’re on our side.” Said another who was watching a large viking riddled with scars all over his body hoist bodies onto a wagon, three at a time. "They're scary." A filly said, and she was comforted by her mother. Then, the ponies saw the humans moving several carts full of loot from Gallus's treasury into the square. "Take what is yours, and only what is yours." A Chosen, backed by a Warborn and a Legion said to the crowd. "Those who violate this shall be punished." The ponies tentatively and quickly gathered their stolen belongings, and the things that belong to Princess Twilight were kept separate as to keep them safe. As the last of the ponies left, the cart was escorted to the Castle, where Cross, Ayu, and Stigandr were meeting with Twilight.. Upon seeing the cart full of books, her belongings, and more come forward, Twilight looked at Cross. "You...didn't take them?" She asked. "Were are not conquerors, but saviors." Cross replied curtly. "Let us begin." Twilight nodded, and used her newly-replenished magic to move her belongings into the house. "So, Princess…" Stigandr said, looking over a map of the surrounding area. "What do you know of the defenses in this area?" "The Iron Pact has set up defenses in nearly every major city. If we take the small towns and forts first, you'll have a growing supply of troops to use." Twilight said. "Problem is, Appleloosa is only accessible by train, and Cloudsdale only by flight-capable beings." "We'll take the land, then." Cross said, striding forward. "Where is the nearest fort we can take?" "Here, in the valley. The Griffons have a mining operation there, along with a considerable cache of food and resources." Twilight said, pointing to it. "Take that, and you'll have a good hold on this area. The fort falls, the land falls as well." "Right." Ayu said. "What of this Crystal Empire, here?" "It's safe, at least for now." Twilight said. "I owe you a great many thanks for saving myself and Ponyville. I will aid you however I can." "Thank you." Stigandr said. "We will move on the fort as soon as we can." While they spoke, Andrew heard a faint click come from the window. Striding over, he saw nothing but a bush...or so it seemed. Reaching into the foliage, he pulled out a pony with a camera. Throwing the spy to the floor, the noise attracted the attention of everyone else. Andrew's blade was soon at his throat. Twilight growled as she looked at him. "A spy?" Stigandr roared. "Yes. His name's Slippery Slope. He's the one who sold us out to the Griffons when they invaded." Twilight snapped. "And I think that camera's been recording our every move." Andrew grabbed Slope by the throat and pinned him to the table. Twilight's horned glowed, and it touched his head, before she pulled away. Andrew then turned his attention back to the brown-coated pony. "You were spying on us, weren't you?" he growled. Slope tried to reach for hidden dagger, only for the shaft of Cross's Halberd to smash into his arm, breaking it. Slope screamed in pain, and coughed out a weak "Yes." "Take him…" Cross said, but Twilight held up her hoof. "What is it?" he asked. "I have an idea as to what we can do with him." she said. Slope gulped nervously as Twilight whispered in Cross's ear, and his heart stopped at Cross's smile. "A fine idea." he said, grabbing the spy and pulling him up. "Listen closely." Cross barked. "I should kill you for spying on us, make an example of you like I did Gallus. But I have a better idea. You will be my courier to the Iron pact. You are to go and tell the leaders of this pact a message from us. Take this." Twilight handed him a bag, and Slope shuddered upon seeing a ball-sized object inside. "You are to go and give this to whoever leads your kind, with our regards." Cross said."Now, begone." Slope screeched in fright and ran away from the town, and he was gone. "Twilight…"Stigandr asked the alicorn. "He saw our defenses." "No, he didn't." Twilight said. "I saw everything. When you had him pinned down, I used a spell that wiped his memories of seeing your camp." "Fascinating." Ayu said. "But tell me one thing. What was in that bag?" "You'll see." Cross said. Canterlot, throne room. Slope stumbled into the throne room, into the presence of the Iron Pact leaders. Dragon Lord Garble… Emperor Iron Will.... And King Greisen. "What do you to report?" Greisen barked. Slope stammered, and held up the bag. Greisen took it, opened it, and then let it fall to the floor in horror. Garble and Iron Will stood up in shock. The decapitated head of Gallus, covered in his blood, along with his rings and broken crown, fell out. Garble blanched at the sight, and Iron Will, normally stalwart, felt a little nauseous. Greisen covered the message with the bag and looked out the window. "Greisen?" Garble asked. "Alert all of the cities to prepare for war." Greisen said. "They will pay. They will all pay." ======= Back in Ponyville, the residents had thrown the humans a large party, organized by Pinkie Pie, to honor them. To Cross, Ayu, and Stigandr, it was a welcome relief. The humans drank, ate, and talked with the ponies, and suffice to say, the leaders, though they enjoyed it, knew more battles lay ahead. "They rest now, but the war is far from over." Ayu said. "Indeed." Stigandr said, downing an entire mug of Cider in one gulp. "We must keep our strength up." "As well as our spirits." Cross said. "To us." "To us." the others raised their glasses as the party went on. Soon, the humans departed for their camp, few if any at all were drunk. They knew what lay ahead. In three days, they would take the mine. And they were ready. Author's Note I think this has been the longest chapter I've ever written, folks. TOTALLY WORTH IT. I own For Honor now, actually. Got it for my birthday. I just need to wait till Friday to play it. (I can't game on weekdays, because of High school.) And thanks for waiting!
