Above the Call (Redux)by Mkchief34ChaptersPrologue: The CrossroadsChapter 1-Take a TrainChapter 2-The ForestPrologue: The CrossroadsEquestria, Canterlot Grand Ballroom Approach Around Eight PM "I still can't believe it!" said Rarity. "The Grand Galloping Gala comes early this year, and it's all thanks to you Twilight!" "Well, it wasn't my decision alone." Princess Twilight Sparkle replied. "Besides, after Tirek a lot of ponies needed some lightheartedness." Spike nodded, but didn't say anything as he was occupied with a comic book. "I agree." Applejack said. "Twilight, this night's gonna go swimmingly." "I sure hope so." Rainbow Dash said. "Last time was a total nightmare." "You're telling us." Rarity said. "I just hope Prince Blueblood isn't there." Rarity gave a snort and shiver of contempt and pretended to pass out, causing everypony else to chuckle with laughter. "Hey, Twilight, will Princess Cadance and Shining Armor be here?" Fluttershy asked. "I think I see their carriage now." "Oh, yes." Twilight replied. "They're the ones who came up with the idea for tonight in the first place." As the six of them and Spike resumed their conversation, their heads swirled with the imagination of how their nights will be spent. ==== The Crossroads There was quiet, and stillness throughout the vast expanse of white. Then, a lone figure appeared. A human male in his forties or fifties, wearing a jungle hat and urban combat gear. A cigar was clenched in his mouth, and the ash flaked into his beard. As he stood up and looked around, he chuckled. "Well, well." said Captain John Price. "I'm dead." "Not entirely." He turned to see a white, ethereal woman approach him. Her hair was flowing red, and she wore a thin robe. The only strange thing about her was the horn and wings she had. "Who might you be?" Price asked. "I am Faust, Captain Price." she said. "Walk with me, I've wanted to speak to you for a long time." As Faust waved her hand, a stone walkway appeared in front of them. They strolled down the path, rocks appearing and disappearing from nowhere. "So, I'm dead, aren't I?" Price asked. "Yes." Faust said. "Your wounds were too great, but you accomplished your mission. The man named Makarov is dead." "Good." Price said. "World's better off without him and his kind." "I would agree with you, Captain Price." she said. "So many innocent souls came my way on that day in the Terminal. But that is not why I saved you." "Saved me?" Price asked. "When all beings die, they go to their rightful place." Faust said. "I brought you here because I need your help." "Talk to me." Faust waved her hand again, and a map appeared in front of Price. "This is Equestria, the land I once called home." she said. "It is a land of magic, peace, and friendship. However, it will be endangered once again and this time, no one can stop it." "Except me." Price said. "Not quite." Faust smiled. "There are more I have saved, but they have not yet reached this place." She sighed before continuing. "Equestria has not had a war in over 1000 years, thanks to the power of my nieces, Celestia and Luna. They are currently throwing a ball in the Equestrian Capital, but it will soon be disrupted by unwelcome guests. They will die, along with many others...unless you and your friends intervene." Price raised an eyebrow. "Who's going with me?" he asked. "Your allies, of which there are many." Faust said. "Captain John MacTavish, Gary Sanderson, Simon Riley, Yuri, Joseph Allen, and Team Metal. More will come in time, but they will be by your side once again." "It'll be nice getting the band back together." Price asked. "One question, though." "Ask it." "Why us?" Price asked. "Why go through all this trouble to ask for my help?" "Because you are the model soldier I need you to be." Faust said. "You are a paragon, Captain. And though your death was ill-conceived, you would come to me sooner or later." Price nodded, recognizing her point. "So, what are we doing?" he asked. "First, you must deal with the unwelcome guests." Faust said. "Then, you will attack the gala yourselves, and leave this behind." Faust handed Price a small object that looked like white-colored amber. "Then, you must get the Equestrians to follow you at all cost." Faust said. "Specifically, and remember this, the Bearers of the Elements of Harmony. They are critical to your success." "Right." Price said. "So, where do we start?" "This way." Faust led Price walked along the path and through a set of oak doors, into a room where Price's allies were resting on stone blocks. Price smiled at the sight of Soap, who was resting quietly, all evidence of his knife wound gone. "If you'll excuse me, I will wake them, and explain to them what I told you." Faust said. "You will also find outside a large selection of armaments and equipment to browse at your leisure. It wouldn't be fair sending you all on such a task without proper equipment. Price walked back through the doors, and in front of his eyes, rack upon rack of weapons appeared in front of him. Price recognized them as weapons he and his allies had used throughout their mission to end Makarov. And on the table in front of him was a worn M1911 that Price had given to Soap upon his death. Price holstered the sidearm and began walking through the vast selections of weapons. From small arms of all kinds, to launchers and explosives, to countless attachments such as sights and under-barrels, and grenades, flashbangs, radios...you name it, it was there. "Hey, old man." He turned to see Faust, accompanied by the members of TF141 and Team Metal, approach him. Soap gave his old friend an arm around the shoulder, and a smile. "Hey, Soap." Price said. "Faust tell you what's going on?" "Yeah." Soap replied. "Well, from saving one world to another." "Let's kit up then, everyone." Price barked. "We've got a job to do." As the men set about to choose their loadout, Faust smiled at the fastidiousness of the men before her. Each soldier tested several weapons before picking their loadout, and customizing them to their liking. "Allen, heads up!" Soap said, tossing the CIA Agent a set of Frag Grenades and Flashbangs, which Allen caught with a nod. "These look good as new." Roach said, modifying an ACR with an ACOG and suppressor, before attaching a grenade launcher. "Faust, your taste in guns is perfect." "Thank you, Gary Sanderson." she said. "I have seen my share of modern war to know what would be suitable for you." "In any case though…" Grinch said, as he prepared a CM901 with a Hybrid Sight. "We could take on an army with all this gear." "I don't doubt it." Price said, picking up his customized M4A1 and MP5. "We all set, gents?" "Good." Soap said as the remaining men finished their loadouts and approached him. "Then I will send you off." Faust said. "Remember what I told you, Captain. You must get the Element Bearers to pursue you." "I'll remember." Price said as a white vortex appeared in front of them. "We'll see you on the far side, Faust." "Likewise." Faust replied. "I will part from you with this. Good luck, gentlemen." As each of them entered the portal, Price dropped his cigar, stomped on it, and followed his allies through the vortex. Then, all was quiet. Faust waved her hand and the weapons vanished from sight, the cigar as well. "Godspeed, Captain Price." she said. ==== As the vision of the nine humans came back, they found themselves on a mountain precipice overlooking a enormous castle, built into a mountainside. "They must like it big here." Sandman said. "If it gets the job done, I really couldn't care.' Ghost added. "Price, what's the game plan? "We need to find the unwelcome guests Faust spoke of and take them out, we cause as much of a scene as we can, finally, we get the hell out of here." Price said. "Until we're in the clear, weapons tight and low. Fire only on confirmed hostiles, and if you get spotted, keep it quiet and discreet." "Roger that." Soap said. "Alright, let's split up. Team Metal, take Allen and Yuri. Ghost, Roach, with me and Price. We'll link up at that rotunda down there in twenty. Be careful, and check your aim." "Roger that." the men replied. As they hooked up their lines and rappelled to the ground, the two teams split up and began their search. ==== "Twilight?" Twilight Sparkle looked up from her plate of food to see Celestia approach. "What's up?" Twilight asked. "Everything seems to be going well." Celestia replied. "There hasn't been a single complaint so far. And it seems the Element Bearers are enjoying themselves." Twilight looked around, and saw that Rarity was in discussion with Fancy Pants and Fleur-de-Lis, Pinkie was just being Pinkie, Rainbow was speaking with the Wonderbolt Soarin, Applejack was getting her own plate of food, Fluttershy was talking with Cadance and Shining Armor, and Spike was on a bench in the garden, reading a comic book he had smuggled in. "It seems so." Twilight said. "Celestia?" "Hmm?" "Do you think we'll have another Tirek situation?" she asked. "I don't believe so." Celestia replied. "Tirek has been sealed away in Tartarus once more, and Cerberus assured me he won't escape again. However, now that you mention it, there is something on my mind I would like to discuss with you." "What?" Twilight asked. "I assume you've heard of the Griffon Land's current...situation?" Celestia asked. "A little." Twilight replied. "Weren't they dealing with three different uprisings in three different areas?" "Not anymore." Celestia said. "The three have become one, and joined forces against their rulers. What I am concerned about is that the rebellion leader, General Grythis, has made it clear he wants Equestrian territory along the border." "That's not good." Twilight said. "It isn't." Celestia said. "Grythis is, without a doubt, a killer and warmonger at heart. I've heard rumors that he kidnaps able-bodied griffons from their homes and trains them into soldiers, and that's just the beginning." "Does ti get worse?" Twilight asked. "It does." Celestia said. "It's also rumored he's torched ten villages and counting, executed prisoners of war, and is currently in control of the Griffonia black market. Apparently, he's coming for Equestria next if he gets control of the country." "Can we do anything?" the Princess of Magic asked. "Not yet." Celestia said. "Grythis's soldiers are far more experienced, motivated, and armed then our Guard, so we can't intervene just yet. I need your approval for a bill that will increase our military research budget." "Of course." Twilight said. "If it's as bad as you say, then we need to be ready." "It's not as bad as I say, it's worse." Celestia said. "King Goryn is hanging on by a thread to his throne, and his most powerful ally cannot help him. Quite a situation to be stuck in, and I hope to remedy that soon." Twilight was about to ask what that meant when cracks of thunder erupted from outside. As the Gala guests turned to the main doors, a Solar Guard tore through the door and scrambled to his hooves. "Get everypony out! We're under attack.." was all he could say before there was a crack of thunder, a spray of blood, and he fell dead. As the guests stood aghast, a platoon of Griffons wearing black appeared, bearing strange long objects. As they entered the hall, the clear leader strode forward, and motioned. A second Solar Guard was dragged forward, bleeding and bruised. As Celestia strode forward, the Griffons did not flinch. "What is the meaning of this?" she asked. "Whatever your dispute with Equestria is, I ask you leave my ponies out of this." "You care for your citizens?" the leader asked. Celestia, surprised at his reply, nodded. The lead Griffon took one of the objects, pointed it at the Solar Guards head… ...then moved it to the side and fired, shooting one of his own soldiers in the head. As the body fell to the floor, the Griffon scoffed at the cries of horror. "Care is without conviction." the Griffon said, pulling of his mask and revealing a bleached white face with a scar across his right eye. "You will learn this, or succumb to the vultures." he said. As he walked back towards the gate, he turned back once more. "Kill them." he said. "One bullet each, don't waste your ammunition." As more Griffons appeared and loaded their weapons, Celestia prepared her magic to summon a shield. Only, she didn't have to. A loud cry shattered the fragile silence, echoing through the scene. "TAKE THEM DOWN!" ==== As Celestia summoned her shield around the attendees, she heard rapid cracks of thunder from both sides of the ballroom. As the Griffons returned fire with their own weapons, Celestia scanned the area, looking for the unseen saviors. "Damn!" she cursed under her breath, maintaining the shield against the barrage. "Luna! Get everypony out!" The Lunar Princess nodded and with a flash, they were all teleported away. As the Griffons lay dead or dying, Celestia lowered her shield… …and then a final shot echoed, striking her in the leg. As she fell to the floor, she saw what had saved and then attacked her. Nine strange beings approached from both sides, clutching weapons of their own. Celestia's eyes widened, recognizing them as Humans from the Mirror Portal. As they approached, their leader walked forward and placed a smaller weapon into the head of a wounded Griffon. With a bang, the Griffon lay dead. As they approached, the human scoffed. "We're not going to kill you." he said in fluent Equish. "Just make sure the Element Bearers follow us. Know that we're not who we seem to be." Celestia could only nod, clutching her wounded leg. Then, the leader kicked her in the head, and she fell unconscious. ==== "Grinch, patch her up." Price said. "Will she live?" "Not sure, Price." Grinch said, working away with a first-aid kit. "You might've cut an artery, she's bleeding bad." "Just make sure she doesn't die." Price said. "One you're done, let's go. We don't have time to waste." Price placed the amber chunk near Celestia as Grinch finished his rudimentary medical work. Then, the members of TF141 headed out through the garden and towards the castle wall. They planted ropes to rappel down, and soon they were out of the palace, heading towards the unknown. Author's Note Yep, it's back, and better than ever. I hope you enjoy! Next time: Price and his team escape Canterlot as the carnage at the Gala unfolds... Chapter 1-Take a Train"So what now, Captain Price?" Allen asked as the men of TF141 rappelled down the castle wall, and into an alley. "We don't have transport out of this city." "We don't, but the Equestrians have got to." Price replied, reloading his M4A1. "Luckily, we've got the high ground. Ghost, take these and scout us a way out of here." "Rog'." The skull-faced 141 Operator took the offered binoculars and rappelled back up to scout the area, while the others reloaded and checked their gear. "We set on ammo?" Price asked. "Yep." Soap replied. "Topped off." "Good, attach suppressors. We can't have the entire city knowing our location." Price ordered, and the men attached suppressors to their weapons. As they sheltered down, Ghost radioed in. "We've got a train station at the southeast corner, looks like a few cars are still there. That's our best bet for getting out of here." "Roger that." Price said. "Get back down here and let's move!" As Ghost rejoined them, the men of TF141 headed off with weapons at the ready. ==== As the Element Bearers, Luna, and Shining Armor teleported back into the ballroom, they gasped at the sight of the dead Griffons and the unconscious Celestia. "Get a doctor!" Luna ordered as they rushed to their fallen leader. "Will she be alright?" Twilight asked. "She'll live." Luna said. "She is not dead, but that must not change. We must move her now!" As Applejack helped Luna move Celestia, Twilight then noticed a chunk of white-colored amber near her previous position. As she picked it up, it was soon snatched out of her hoof by Spike. "Spike, that was rude!" Twilight admonished. "What, I'm hungry!" Spike replied as he clamped his jaws down… ...on thin air. The stone had been snatched away for the second time by Princess Luna, who seemed awestruck at the sight of it. "What is it?" Twilight asked. "A Tear of Faust." Luna said. "I haven't seen one of these in many, many, years. Whoever did this must've left it behind." "You didn't answer my question." Twilight added. "What is a Tear of Faust?" "A symbol of mercy." Luna said. "Paramount to divine intervention. Faust or one of her emissaries came and saved us." "And who's Faust?" Pinkie asked. "Later." Luna said, putting the Tear of Faust away. "Let's get this cleaned up." As the Royal Guards filed in and began collecting the bodies, Luna brought the Elements and Shining Armor to her office, where Princess Cadance was waiting. "What's going on?" Rarity asked. "I will tell you." Luna said. "Faust is my aunt, and the Alicorn of Life. She gave up her physical existence to protect Equestria from an evil unsurmountable. She now presides over the crossroads, where the dead receive judgement." "What?" Rainbow asked. "She watches over life and death." Luna said, rolling her eyes at the pegasus. "Do try to keep up. These tears were given to those who were worthy of her protection and saving grace. But they haven't appeared since centuries ago. We must find out why." "But we still haven't found out what those Griffons were after, or who killed them." Shining said. "That should be our priority." "I agree, Prince Shining Armor." Luna said. "However, we have more things to deal with than just that. These Tears usually contain a message for the receiver, however." Luna scanned it with her magic, and a voice began to speak. "Hello, Celestia, Luna." said the voice of Faust. "I know what you just witnessed was disturbing, but hear me out, my nieces. I have brought nine powerful warriors, known together as Task Force 141, to Equestria. They saved the lives of Celestia at my request, because the realm of Equis itself is in danger, and I cannot stop it this time." "But Task Force 141 can." Faust continued. "Only their deaths could stop them and their pursuit of peace. However, they are on the run as per my instructions to them. The Element Bearers and the Element Bearers alone are to follow them, using my Tear as a guide. Once you catch up with them, tell them they have succeeded in their first task. After that, you are to keep them in Ponyville as respected guests until further notice." "I know you have questions, but please trust me." Faust finished. "I will guide you as needed. Farewell." As the voice faded, everypony present burst into a cacophony of noise and exclamations. "WHAT?" Twilight said. "This Task Force 141...saved the Gala!?" "Powerful warriors?" Shining gasped. "Only death could stop them?" Fluttershy whimpered. As the babble of voices and cries began, Luna stood in shock. If this Task Force 141 was sent by Faust… "We need to find them." Luna said. "And inquire what they know. Twilight Sparkle, take the Elements and search far and wide until they are found." "Will do!" Pinkie said, now doing a sailor salute. "Let's go!' "Wait, Pinkie." Twilight said. "We don't even know where they are, or where they're heading…" "Hey, Princess Luna?" Rainbow asked all of a sudden. "Why are there ropes on the castle wall?" Luna and Twilight scampered over, and it turned out Rainbow was right. Luna used her magic to scan the area, and footprints appeared in the mud. "They lead into the southeastern part of the city." Luna said. "To the train station." Twilight continued. "Where are the trains heading tonight?" "I believe...Ponyville." Luna said. "The other lines are off for the night." "Then let's get a move on!" Twilight said. "We don't have time to waste!" As the Element Bearers sprinted off and out the door, Shining looked at Princess Luna with a curious expression. "Luna?" he asked. "Are you sure these warriors can be trusted?" "We'll ask them when we find them." Luna replied. "Come, let's deal with the aftermath of this heinous attack." ==== As the 141 headed out through the streets, their weapons and eyes flicked from corner to alley to street and back. "I'll tell you one thing." Ghost said. "This place is dead quiet." "I agree." Yuri added. "We're in the dark with no place to go but one." "What's that?" Grinch asked. "Forward." Yuri replied. "Quiet." Price said. "Train station up ahead, and we've got company." As the 141 took cover, they saw six ponies guarding the door, one of which was an alicorn. "No easy way for getting past them." Sandman said. "What's the play?" "Loop around them." Price said. "Double back and get behind them." As the 141 took a side alley, Twilight's eyes were locked on the street, along with the eyes of her friends. "So, I wonder what this Task Force 141 is like." Rarity said. "They had better be proper gentlecolts." "Why's that?" Fluttershy asked. "Because tonight was horrible!" Rarity said. "The blood, the screams, it was a total nightmare!" "I agree, but stay focused." Twilight said. "They could be here any minute." As they watched the entrance path, they didn't notice the 141 opening the reverse-side door and filing in. "Where's our heading?" Price whispered. "Ponyville, according to this map." Roach said. "Those ponies are gonna find us." "No, they won't if you keep your voice down." Soap said. "Train should be leaving soon." As the train whistle blew, the Elements turned to watch the train start to leave from their parallel position on the station boardwalk. "Wait, why do I get the feeling we're being watched?" Pinkie asked. As they scanned the area, a sudden gasp came from Rainbow. "The train!" she cried. "We know, Rainbow, it's leaving." Twilight said. "No, look at the train!" Rainbow said. "They're getting away!" As the ponies gasped, a human poked his head out from the train window. Apart from a rough-cut mohawk and brown eyes, the most defining feature was a prominent smirk on his clearly masculine face. As the ponies stood in shock, he casually raised his middle finger at them as the train took off towards Ponyville. "What did he just do?" Fluttershy asked. Twilight, recognizing the gesture from the human world, merely growled. "You don't want to know." Twilight said. "Let's get to Ponyville before they do." As Twilight teleported them away, Soap and the other men of Task Force 141 were currently settling down in the cargo car by moving crates, forming a makeshift tent… ...and were chortling all the way. Even Price was laughing softly at Soap's gesturing. "That was a moment for the history books!" Truck said, slapping Soap on the shoulder. "You just became the first man to flip off an alien species!" "And let the record show, no fucks were given!" Grinch laughed. "Let's settle down, gents." Price said. "We should get some rest. Alternate watches, no gunfire." "Yes, sir." the men of Task Force 141 replied. As they settled in for some sleep, Allen took the first shift on watch duty. Author's Note Update! Chapter 2-The ForestAs the train sped through the night, Allen kept his M4A1 trained on both sets of doors into their car. Though his hand twitched with the effort, Allen ket watching, alternating between doors every so often. "Allen?" He turned to see Soap stir and look at him with a raised eyebrow. "You okay?" he asked. "Yeah, I'm fine." Allen said. "How about you?" "Eh, decent." Soap said, picking up his own M4A1and leaning on the crate next to Allen. "You know Allen, back on Earth and before you joined the 141...I looked over your files." ""What'd they say?" Allen asked. "A model soldier." Soap said. "You did what was asked of you and more, excellent marks all around...you know, if you hadn't been killed at the Airport...you would've fit right in with the 141." "Yeah." Allen said. "The airport…" "Still feel bad about it?" Soap asked. "I do." Allen said. "I shot civilians that day, Soap. Civilians who didn't know what was coming. If I'm not going to hell for that alone, I don't know what else would qualify." "Allen, if it's any consolation, we're all going to hell." Soap said, slapping Allen on the shoulder. "And if that's the case, we're all in good company." Allen chuckled, and sighed with relief. "You're right." Allen said. "Hey, Soap? How'd you get your nickname? I don't think I've heard anyone ask you that before." Soap chuckled this time, and rolled his eyes lazily. "It's a long story." he said. "Back when I was training for the SAS, my unit went on a really long hike into this big fucking swamp near the base. We hiked for three hours through that moor, and we were completely covered in mud by the time we got back." Soap smiled to himself. "After a few more drills, we got time to shower." Soap said. "Back then, I had a bottle of shampoo sent to me by my folks. I used up the entire bottle's worthy getting myself cleaned up for roll call the next morning, and it worked. From there on after, I was known as Soap by my mates. The name stuck with me from Basic to Hereford, and I guess with good reason." "Wow. How big was that bottle?" Allen asked. Soap motioned with his hands, and Allen raised his eyebrows in surprise. "It was that big?" Allen said. "Yep." Soap said. "Anyway, you should get some rest, Allen. I'll take over from here." As Allen nodded and sat down, quickly slumping over and falling asleep, Soap took up watch position, and after a few hours, he too was asleep. ==== As Twilight and the Element Bearers appeared in Ponyville via Twilight teleporting them from Canterlot, Rainbow stretched and looked at the lavender Alicorn. "So, when should that train arrive?" she asked. "In the morning." Twilight said. "Once we get those humans somewhere safe, we'll ask them the questions I've prepared." "What if they don't want to answer?" Pinkie asked. "They have to, I'm a Princess of Equestria." Twilight said, then adding in a whisper. "Not that it matters since the one with the strange mane flipped me off…" "What?" Applejack asked.. "Nothing." Twilight said. "The train should arrive at Eight AM, so let's be here by Seven, everypony. Set your alarms and if there's trouble, I'll handle it." "Right!" the other Elements said as they parted ways for their residences, Twilight forming various plans in her mind in case of trouble. ==== The Next Day Eight Am As the train arrived in Ponyville, the 141 were already awake and ready for trouble. While Price mustered the men, Allen worked to unlock the car's cargo hatch. "How's that door coming?" Soap asked. "These latches weren't meant for human hands, that's for sure." Allen replied. "Fuck it, Ghost, toss me your shotgun." Ghost tossed Allen his M1014, and Allen blew the hinges off with two clean shots before tossing it back to Ghost. "Let's go." Price said as the door collapsed, revealing a treeline bordering on some grassland. "We don't have much time to find cover out here." As Roach and Grinch moved a crate to cover the vacant door, Price gave the sigganl for an "All clear". "Roger, let's go!" Sandman said as the 141 sprinted into the grass outside Ponyville, making sure hide themselves every so often. ==== "Where are they?" Rainbow moaned as they stood outside the train station. "It's eight AM and the train's there, but where are those things?" "Maybe they got off at a different stop." Spike suggested. "There's no stops between here and Canterlot." Twilight said. "They got off here, I'm sure of it." "Well, how much longer do we need to wait?" Rarity complained. Twilight was going to reply when Rainbow groaned and zoomed off into the sky. "Well, anypony else feel like quitting?" Twilight rolled her eyes. Then, Rainbow came back and pointed to the Everfree. "They got off the train through the Cargo hatch! They're heading for the Whitetail woods!" she cried. "If they make it to the Everfree, they're as good as gone! Hurry!" Twilight cried as she teleported them over the Train and sprinted off into the grass in pursuit. ==== "Price, we got six contacts on our left!" Truck whispered over the radio. "I see them." Price replied. "Hunker down, don't let them see you!" As the 141 went prone, the six ponies passed by, oblivious to their presence. They walked off into the distance, however they were still visible to the humans. "Move quietly into the woods." Price ordered. "Hold your fire, I repeat, hold your fire!" "Rog'." Sandman and the others spoke as they entered the woods one by one. However, they didn't notice the butter yellow pegasus in the group turn around and get a full view of Soap heading into the trees. ==== "I saw them! Over there!" Fluttershy said, louder than usual. As the six ponies spun around, they saw Allen head into the trees with his M4A1 at the ready. "Stop them!" Twilight shouted. The shout caught Allen's attention, and he dived into the forest after his teammates. "Well, what are we waiting for?" Rainbow yelled. Before the others could stop her, she blazed off into the forest. ==== "We've got one on our tail!" Allen yelled as the 141 sprinted through the foliage. "Closing fast!" "Allen, open fire! Aim to distract her! Get her into the open!" Price replied. Allen spun on his heel and emptied a full magazine into the trees. As the blue blur hooked right to avoid the bullets, Price hurled a Flashbang. The blue pegasus didn't see the incoming grenade until it detonated in her face, blinding her vision and sending her crashing into a sturdy oak tree branch. She spun around it for a few moments, then fell on the ground in a heap inside a clearing. "Ouch!" she moaned, rubbing her sore chest. "You know what, that's it! Come out and we'll do this face to face!" As the 141 came out from the trees, Price tossed his M4A1 to Soap and cracked his knuckles. "If you insist." he said, taking a fighting stance. Rainbow did the same, and she made the first attack. She dove towards Price's chest, aiming to tackle him. Price grabbed her and tossed her aside, sending her sprawling. Rainbow got back up, and with a growl, sprinted back again at Price. This time, Price sidestepped and grabbed her neck with the crook of his arm. The move made Price grunt with pain, but his move worked. Rainbow was now held securely by Price, who drew his M1911 and pointed it at her. "Whoever else is with this one, come out now!" he ordered, with the 141 crouching with weapons ready. The other Element Bearers approached, all of them ready for a fight. "Let her go!" Twilight ordered. "That's an order!" "Make me." Price replied. "And who the hell are you to be giving me orders?" Twilight growled in reply. "I am a Princess of Equestria, and Bearer of the Element of Magic!" she retorted. "If you don't release Rainbow immediately and come with us peacefully, I will use force!" Price then heard Faust speak in his mind, like telepathy. "Captain, those are the Elements of Harmony I told you about. You can go with them, I assure you that you'll be safe.' "Really?" Price thought. "Really." Faust replied. "I've brought you this far, haven't I?' "Fair point." Price thought again. He shrugged and tossed Rainbow to the ground, who scampered into a fighting stance. "Just so you know, that wasn't because you ordered me to." Price said to Twilight. "I take it you're the Elements of Harmony?" "Yes." Twilight said, growling. "You'll be coming with us..." "Fine." "And if you don't...what?" Twilight said upon hearing the word Price spoke. "You're surrendering?" "We're not surrendering." Price said as the 141 lowered their weapons. "We're just coming with you so you can explain everything we need to know. In exchange, we'll tell you what needs to be known. As long as no one else attacks us, that'll be the plan. Okay?" Twilight was taken aback, and she took a deep breath before answering. "Fine." she said. "Who are you?" "Captain John Price." he said. "I and my friends here are the members of Task Force 141." "Wait, Task Force 141?' Rarity asked. "Twilight, isn't that the name of the beings Luna told us about? The ones from that tear of Faust?" "That's right!" Spike added. "Weren't they elite Royal Guards or something like that?" Twilight's mental light bulb switched on above her head. "You're Task Force 141?" she asked. "For real?" "Yes." Price said. "Now, can we get a move on to wherever it is we're going to?" "Oh, right." Twilight said. "I guess my Castle would be okay?" "We'll follow you, then." Soap said, coming forward. As the Element Bearers and Task Force 141 exited the forest, Price tucked his jungle hat forward, sliding the brim over his forehead. Author's Note Update!
Prologue: The CrossroadsEquestria, Canterlot Grand Ballroom Approach Around Eight PM "I still can't believe it!" said Rarity. "The Grand Galloping Gala comes early this year, and it's all thanks to you Twilight!" "Well, it wasn't my decision alone." Princess Twilight Sparkle replied. "Besides, after Tirek a lot of ponies needed some lightheartedness." Spike nodded, but didn't say anything as he was occupied with a comic book. "I agree." Applejack said. "Twilight, this night's gonna go swimmingly." "I sure hope so." Rainbow Dash said. "Last time was a total nightmare." "You're telling us." Rarity said. "I just hope Prince Blueblood isn't there." Rarity gave a snort and shiver of contempt and pretended to pass out, causing everypony else to chuckle with laughter. "Hey, Twilight, will Princess Cadance and Shining Armor be here?" Fluttershy asked. "I think I see their carriage now." "Oh, yes." Twilight replied. "They're the ones who came up with the idea for tonight in the first place." As the six of them and Spike resumed their conversation, their heads swirled with the imagination of how their nights will be spent. ==== The Crossroads There was quiet, and stillness throughout the vast expanse of white. Then, a lone figure appeared. A human male in his forties or fifties, wearing a jungle hat and urban combat gear. A cigar was clenched in his mouth, and the ash flaked into his beard. As he stood up and looked around, he chuckled. "Well, well." said Captain John Price. "I'm dead." "Not entirely." He turned to see a white, ethereal woman approach him. Her hair was flowing red, and she wore a thin robe. The only strange thing about her was the horn and wings she had. "Who might you be?" Price asked. "I am Faust, Captain Price." she said. "Walk with me, I've wanted to speak to you for a long time." As Faust waved her hand, a stone walkway appeared in front of them. They strolled down the path, rocks appearing and disappearing from nowhere. "So, I'm dead, aren't I?" Price asked. "Yes." Faust said. "Your wounds were too great, but you accomplished your mission. The man named Makarov is dead." "Good." Price said. "World's better off without him and his kind." "I would agree with you, Captain Price." she said. "So many innocent souls came my way on that day in the Terminal. But that is not why I saved you." "Saved me?" Price asked. "When all beings die, they go to their rightful place." Faust said. "I brought you here because I need your help." "Talk to me." Faust waved her hand again, and a map appeared in front of Price. "This is Equestria, the land I once called home." she said. "It is a land of magic, peace, and friendship. However, it will be endangered once again and this time, no one can stop it." "Except me." Price said. "Not quite." Faust smiled. "There are more I have saved, but they have not yet reached this place." She sighed before continuing. "Equestria has not had a war in over 1000 years, thanks to the power of my nieces, Celestia and Luna. They are currently throwing a ball in the Equestrian Capital, but it will soon be disrupted by unwelcome guests. They will die, along with many others...unless you and your friends intervene." Price raised an eyebrow. "Who's going with me?" he asked. "Your allies, of which there are many." Faust said. "Captain John MacTavish, Gary Sanderson, Simon Riley, Yuri, Joseph Allen, and Team Metal. More will come in time, but they will be by your side once again." "It'll be nice getting the band back together." Price asked. "One question, though." "Ask it." "Why us?" Price asked. "Why go through all this trouble to ask for my help?" "Because you are the model soldier I need you to be." Faust said. "You are a paragon, Captain. And though your death was ill-conceived, you would come to me sooner or later." Price nodded, recognizing her point. "So, what are we doing?" he asked. "First, you must deal with the unwelcome guests." Faust said. "Then, you will attack the gala yourselves, and leave this behind." Faust handed Price a small object that looked like white-colored amber. "Then, you must get the Equestrians to follow you at all cost." Faust said. "Specifically, and remember this, the Bearers of the Elements of Harmony. They are critical to your success." "Right." Price said. "So, where do we start?" "This way." Faust led Price walked along the path and through a set of oak doors, into a room where Price's allies were resting on stone blocks. Price smiled at the sight of Soap, who was resting quietly, all evidence of his knife wound gone. "If you'll excuse me, I will wake them, and explain to them what I told you." Faust said. "You will also find outside a large selection of armaments and equipment to browse at your leisure. It wouldn't be fair sending you all on such a task without proper equipment. Price walked back through the doors, and in front of his eyes, rack upon rack of weapons appeared in front of him. Price recognized them as weapons he and his allies had used throughout their mission to end Makarov. And on the table in front of him was a worn M1911 that Price had given to Soap upon his death. Price holstered the sidearm and began walking through the vast selections of weapons. From small arms of all kinds, to launchers and explosives, to countless attachments such as sights and under-barrels, and grenades, flashbangs, radios...you name it, it was there. "Hey, old man." He turned to see Faust, accompanied by the members of TF141 and Team Metal, approach him. Soap gave his old friend an arm around the shoulder, and a smile. "Hey, Soap." Price said. "Faust tell you what's going on?" "Yeah." Soap replied. "Well, from saving one world to another." "Let's kit up then, everyone." Price barked. "We've got a job to do." As the men set about to choose their loadout, Faust smiled at the fastidiousness of the men before her. Each soldier tested several weapons before picking their loadout, and customizing them to their liking. "Allen, heads up!" Soap said, tossing the CIA Agent a set of Frag Grenades and Flashbangs, which Allen caught with a nod. "These look good as new." Roach said, modifying an ACR with an ACOG and suppressor, before attaching a grenade launcher. "Faust, your taste in guns is perfect." "Thank you, Gary Sanderson." she said. "I have seen my share of modern war to know what would be suitable for you." "In any case though…" Grinch said, as he prepared a CM901 with a Hybrid Sight. "We could take on an army with all this gear." "I don't doubt it." Price said, picking up his customized M4A1 and MP5. "We all set, gents?" "Good." Soap said as the remaining men finished their loadouts and approached him. "Then I will send you off." Faust said. "Remember what I told you, Captain. You must get the Element Bearers to pursue you." "I'll remember." Price said as a white vortex appeared in front of them. "We'll see you on the far side, Faust." "Likewise." Faust replied. "I will part from you with this. Good luck, gentlemen." As each of them entered the portal, Price dropped his cigar, stomped on it, and followed his allies through the vortex. Then, all was quiet. Faust waved her hand and the weapons vanished from sight, the cigar as well. "Godspeed, Captain Price." she said. ==== As the vision of the nine humans came back, they found themselves on a mountain precipice overlooking a enormous castle, built into a mountainside. "They must like it big here." Sandman said. "If it gets the job done, I really couldn't care.' Ghost added. "Price, what's the game plan? "We need to find the unwelcome guests Faust spoke of and take them out, we cause as much of a scene as we can, finally, we get the hell out of here." Price said. "Until we're in the clear, weapons tight and low. Fire only on confirmed hostiles, and if you get spotted, keep it quiet and discreet." "Roger that." Soap said. "Alright, let's split up. Team Metal, take Allen and Yuri. Ghost, Roach, with me and Price. We'll link up at that rotunda down there in twenty. Be careful, and check your aim." "Roger that." the men replied. As they hooked up their lines and rappelled to the ground, the two teams split up and began their search. ==== "Twilight?" Twilight Sparkle looked up from her plate of food to see Celestia approach. "What's up?" Twilight asked. "Everything seems to be going well." Celestia replied. "There hasn't been a single complaint so far. And it seems the Element Bearers are enjoying themselves." Twilight looked around, and saw that Rarity was in discussion with Fancy Pants and Fleur-de-Lis, Pinkie was just being Pinkie, Rainbow was speaking with the Wonderbolt Soarin, Applejack was getting her own plate of food, Fluttershy was talking with Cadance and Shining Armor, and Spike was on a bench in the garden, reading a comic book he had smuggled in. "It seems so." Twilight said. "Celestia?" "Hmm?" "Do you think we'll have another Tirek situation?" she asked. "I don't believe so." Celestia replied. "Tirek has been sealed away in Tartarus once more, and Cerberus assured me he won't escape again. However, now that you mention it, there is something on my mind I would like to discuss with you." "What?" Twilight asked. "I assume you've heard of the Griffon Land's current...situation?" Celestia asked. "A little." Twilight replied. "Weren't they dealing with three different uprisings in three different areas?" "Not anymore." Celestia said. "The three have become one, and joined forces against their rulers. What I am concerned about is that the rebellion leader, General Grythis, has made it clear he wants Equestrian territory along the border." "That's not good." Twilight said. "It isn't." Celestia said. "Grythis is, without a doubt, a killer and warmonger at heart. I've heard rumors that he kidnaps able-bodied griffons from their homes and trains them into soldiers, and that's just the beginning." "Does ti get worse?" Twilight asked. "It does." Celestia said. "It's also rumored he's torched ten villages and counting, executed prisoners of war, and is currently in control of the Griffonia black market. Apparently, he's coming for Equestria next if he gets control of the country." "Can we do anything?" the Princess of Magic asked. "Not yet." Celestia said. "Grythis's soldiers are far more experienced, motivated, and armed then our Guard, so we can't intervene just yet. I need your approval for a bill that will increase our military research budget." "Of course." Twilight said. "If it's as bad as you say, then we need to be ready." "It's not as bad as I say, it's worse." Celestia said. "King Goryn is hanging on by a thread to his throne, and his most powerful ally cannot help him. Quite a situation to be stuck in, and I hope to remedy that soon." Twilight was about to ask what that meant when cracks of thunder erupted from outside. As the Gala guests turned to the main doors, a Solar Guard tore through the door and scrambled to his hooves. "Get everypony out! We're under attack.." was all he could say before there was a crack of thunder, a spray of blood, and he fell dead. As the guests stood aghast, a platoon of Griffons wearing black appeared, bearing strange long objects. As they entered the hall, the clear leader strode forward, and motioned. A second Solar Guard was dragged forward, bleeding and bruised. As Celestia strode forward, the Griffons did not flinch. "What is the meaning of this?" she asked. "Whatever your dispute with Equestria is, I ask you leave my ponies out of this." "You care for your citizens?" the leader asked. Celestia, surprised at his reply, nodded. The lead Griffon took one of the objects, pointed it at the Solar Guards head… ...then moved it to the side and fired, shooting one of his own soldiers in the head. As the body fell to the floor, the Griffon scoffed at the cries of horror. "Care is without conviction." the Griffon said, pulling of his mask and revealing a bleached white face with a scar across his right eye. "You will learn this, or succumb to the vultures." he said. As he walked back towards the gate, he turned back once more. "Kill them." he said. "One bullet each, don't waste your ammunition." As more Griffons appeared and loaded their weapons, Celestia prepared her magic to summon a shield. Only, she didn't have to. A loud cry shattered the fragile silence, echoing through the scene. "TAKE THEM DOWN!" ==== As Celestia summoned her shield around the attendees, she heard rapid cracks of thunder from both sides of the ballroom. As the Griffons returned fire with their own weapons, Celestia scanned the area, looking for the unseen saviors. "Damn!" she cursed under her breath, maintaining the shield against the barrage. "Luna! Get everypony out!" The Lunar Princess nodded and with a flash, they were all teleported away. As the Griffons lay dead or dying, Celestia lowered her shield… …and then a final shot echoed, striking her in the leg. As she fell to the floor, she saw what had saved and then attacked her. Nine strange beings approached from both sides, clutching weapons of their own. Celestia's eyes widened, recognizing them as Humans from the Mirror Portal. As they approached, their leader walked forward and placed a smaller weapon into the head of a wounded Griffon. With a bang, the Griffon lay dead. As they approached, the human scoffed. "We're not going to kill you." he said in fluent Equish. "Just make sure the Element Bearers follow us. Know that we're not who we seem to be." Celestia could only nod, clutching her wounded leg. Then, the leader kicked her in the head, and she fell unconscious. ==== "Grinch, patch her up." Price said. "Will she live?" "Not sure, Price." Grinch said, working away with a first-aid kit. "You might've cut an artery, she's bleeding bad." "Just make sure she doesn't die." Price said. "One you're done, let's go. We don't have time to waste." Price placed the amber chunk near Celestia as Grinch finished his rudimentary medical work. Then, the members of TF141 headed out through the garden and towards the castle wall. They planted ropes to rappel down, and soon they were out of the palace, heading towards the unknown. Author's Note Yep, it's back, and better than ever. I hope you enjoy! Next time: Price and his team escape Canterlot as the carnage at the Gala unfolds...
Chapter 1-Take a Train"So what now, Captain Price?" Allen asked as the men of TF141 rappelled down the castle wall, and into an alley. "We don't have transport out of this city." "We don't, but the Equestrians have got to." Price replied, reloading his M4A1. "Luckily, we've got the high ground. Ghost, take these and scout us a way out of here." "Rog'." The skull-faced 141 Operator took the offered binoculars and rappelled back up to scout the area, while the others reloaded and checked their gear. "We set on ammo?" Price asked. "Yep." Soap replied. "Topped off." "Good, attach suppressors. We can't have the entire city knowing our location." Price ordered, and the men attached suppressors to their weapons. As they sheltered down, Ghost radioed in. "We've got a train station at the southeast corner, looks like a few cars are still there. That's our best bet for getting out of here." "Roger that." Price said. "Get back down here and let's move!" As Ghost rejoined them, the men of TF141 headed off with weapons at the ready. ==== As the Element Bearers, Luna, and Shining Armor teleported back into the ballroom, they gasped at the sight of the dead Griffons and the unconscious Celestia. "Get a doctor!" Luna ordered as they rushed to their fallen leader. "Will she be alright?" Twilight asked. "She'll live." Luna said. "She is not dead, but that must not change. We must move her now!" As Applejack helped Luna move Celestia, Twilight then noticed a chunk of white-colored amber near her previous position. As she picked it up, it was soon snatched out of her hoof by Spike. "Spike, that was rude!" Twilight admonished. "What, I'm hungry!" Spike replied as he clamped his jaws down… ...on thin air. The stone had been snatched away for the second time by Princess Luna, who seemed awestruck at the sight of it. "What is it?" Twilight asked. "A Tear of Faust." Luna said. "I haven't seen one of these in many, many, years. Whoever did this must've left it behind." "You didn't answer my question." Twilight added. "What is a Tear of Faust?" "A symbol of mercy." Luna said. "Paramount to divine intervention. Faust or one of her emissaries came and saved us." "And who's Faust?" Pinkie asked. "Later." Luna said, putting the Tear of Faust away. "Let's get this cleaned up." As the Royal Guards filed in and began collecting the bodies, Luna brought the Elements and Shining Armor to her office, where Princess Cadance was waiting. "What's going on?" Rarity asked. "I will tell you." Luna said. "Faust is my aunt, and the Alicorn of Life. She gave up her physical existence to protect Equestria from an evil unsurmountable. She now presides over the crossroads, where the dead receive judgement." "What?" Rainbow asked. "She watches over life and death." Luna said, rolling her eyes at the pegasus. "Do try to keep up. These tears were given to those who were worthy of her protection and saving grace. But they haven't appeared since centuries ago. We must find out why." "But we still haven't found out what those Griffons were after, or who killed them." Shining said. "That should be our priority." "I agree, Prince Shining Armor." Luna said. "However, we have more things to deal with than just that. These Tears usually contain a message for the receiver, however." Luna scanned it with her magic, and a voice began to speak. "Hello, Celestia, Luna." said the voice of Faust. "I know what you just witnessed was disturbing, but hear me out, my nieces. I have brought nine powerful warriors, known together as Task Force 141, to Equestria. They saved the lives of Celestia at my request, because the realm of Equis itself is in danger, and I cannot stop it this time." "But Task Force 141 can." Faust continued. "Only their deaths could stop them and their pursuit of peace. However, they are on the run as per my instructions to them. The Element Bearers and the Element Bearers alone are to follow them, using my Tear as a guide. Once you catch up with them, tell them they have succeeded in their first task. After that, you are to keep them in Ponyville as respected guests until further notice." "I know you have questions, but please trust me." Faust finished. "I will guide you as needed. Farewell." As the voice faded, everypony present burst into a cacophony of noise and exclamations. "WHAT?" Twilight said. "This Task Force 141...saved the Gala!?" "Powerful warriors?" Shining gasped. "Only death could stop them?" Fluttershy whimpered. As the babble of voices and cries began, Luna stood in shock. If this Task Force 141 was sent by Faust… "We need to find them." Luna said. "And inquire what they know. Twilight Sparkle, take the Elements and search far and wide until they are found." "Will do!" Pinkie said, now doing a sailor salute. "Let's go!' "Wait, Pinkie." Twilight said. "We don't even know where they are, or where they're heading…" "Hey, Princess Luna?" Rainbow asked all of a sudden. "Why are there ropes on the castle wall?" Luna and Twilight scampered over, and it turned out Rainbow was right. Luna used her magic to scan the area, and footprints appeared in the mud. "They lead into the southeastern part of the city." Luna said. "To the train station." Twilight continued. "Where are the trains heading tonight?" "I believe...Ponyville." Luna said. "The other lines are off for the night." "Then let's get a move on!" Twilight said. "We don't have time to waste!" As the Element Bearers sprinted off and out the door, Shining looked at Princess Luna with a curious expression. "Luna?" he asked. "Are you sure these warriors can be trusted?" "We'll ask them when we find them." Luna replied. "Come, let's deal with the aftermath of this heinous attack." ==== As the 141 headed out through the streets, their weapons and eyes flicked from corner to alley to street and back. "I'll tell you one thing." Ghost said. "This place is dead quiet." "I agree." Yuri added. "We're in the dark with no place to go but one." "What's that?" Grinch asked. "Forward." Yuri replied. "Quiet." Price said. "Train station up ahead, and we've got company." As the 141 took cover, they saw six ponies guarding the door, one of which was an alicorn. "No easy way for getting past them." Sandman said. "What's the play?" "Loop around them." Price said. "Double back and get behind them." As the 141 took a side alley, Twilight's eyes were locked on the street, along with the eyes of her friends. "So, I wonder what this Task Force 141 is like." Rarity said. "They had better be proper gentlecolts." "Why's that?" Fluttershy asked. "Because tonight was horrible!" Rarity said. "The blood, the screams, it was a total nightmare!" "I agree, but stay focused." Twilight said. "They could be here any minute." As they watched the entrance path, they didn't notice the 141 opening the reverse-side door and filing in. "Where's our heading?" Price whispered. "Ponyville, according to this map." Roach said. "Those ponies are gonna find us." "No, they won't if you keep your voice down." Soap said. "Train should be leaving soon." As the train whistle blew, the Elements turned to watch the train start to leave from their parallel position on the station boardwalk. "Wait, why do I get the feeling we're being watched?" Pinkie asked. As they scanned the area, a sudden gasp came from Rainbow. "The train!" she cried. "We know, Rainbow, it's leaving." Twilight said. "No, look at the train!" Rainbow said. "They're getting away!" As the ponies gasped, a human poked his head out from the train window. Apart from a rough-cut mohawk and brown eyes, the most defining feature was a prominent smirk on his clearly masculine face. As the ponies stood in shock, he casually raised his middle finger at them as the train took off towards Ponyville. "What did he just do?" Fluttershy asked. Twilight, recognizing the gesture from the human world, merely growled. "You don't want to know." Twilight said. "Let's get to Ponyville before they do." As Twilight teleported them away, Soap and the other men of Task Force 141 were currently settling down in the cargo car by moving crates, forming a makeshift tent… ...and were chortling all the way. Even Price was laughing softly at Soap's gesturing. "That was a moment for the history books!" Truck said, slapping Soap on the shoulder. "You just became the first man to flip off an alien species!" "And let the record show, no fucks were given!" Grinch laughed. "Let's settle down, gents." Price said. "We should get some rest. Alternate watches, no gunfire." "Yes, sir." the men of Task Force 141 replied. As they settled in for some sleep, Allen took the first shift on watch duty. Author's Note Update!
Chapter 2-The ForestAs the train sped through the night, Allen kept his M4A1 trained on both sets of doors into their car. Though his hand twitched with the effort, Allen ket watching, alternating between doors every so often. "Allen?" He turned to see Soap stir and look at him with a raised eyebrow. "You okay?" he asked. "Yeah, I'm fine." Allen said. "How about you?" "Eh, decent." Soap said, picking up his own M4A1and leaning on the crate next to Allen. "You know Allen, back on Earth and before you joined the 141...I looked over your files." ""What'd they say?" Allen asked. "A model soldier." Soap said. "You did what was asked of you and more, excellent marks all around...you know, if you hadn't been killed at the Airport...you would've fit right in with the 141." "Yeah." Allen said. "The airport…" "Still feel bad about it?" Soap asked. "I do." Allen said. "I shot civilians that day, Soap. Civilians who didn't know what was coming. If I'm not going to hell for that alone, I don't know what else would qualify." "Allen, if it's any consolation, we're all going to hell." Soap said, slapping Allen on the shoulder. "And if that's the case, we're all in good company." Allen chuckled, and sighed with relief. "You're right." Allen said. "Hey, Soap? How'd you get your nickname? I don't think I've heard anyone ask you that before." Soap chuckled this time, and rolled his eyes lazily. "It's a long story." he said. "Back when I was training for the SAS, my unit went on a really long hike into this big fucking swamp near the base. We hiked for three hours through that moor, and we were completely covered in mud by the time we got back." Soap smiled to himself. "After a few more drills, we got time to shower." Soap said. "Back then, I had a bottle of shampoo sent to me by my folks. I used up the entire bottle's worthy getting myself cleaned up for roll call the next morning, and it worked. From there on after, I was known as Soap by my mates. The name stuck with me from Basic to Hereford, and I guess with good reason." "Wow. How big was that bottle?" Allen asked. Soap motioned with his hands, and Allen raised his eyebrows in surprise. "It was that big?" Allen said. "Yep." Soap said. "Anyway, you should get some rest, Allen. I'll take over from here." As Allen nodded and sat down, quickly slumping over and falling asleep, Soap took up watch position, and after a few hours, he too was asleep. ==== As Twilight and the Element Bearers appeared in Ponyville via Twilight teleporting them from Canterlot, Rainbow stretched and looked at the lavender Alicorn. "So, when should that train arrive?" she asked. "In the morning." Twilight said. "Once we get those humans somewhere safe, we'll ask them the questions I've prepared." "What if they don't want to answer?" Pinkie asked. "They have to, I'm a Princess of Equestria." Twilight said, then adding in a whisper. "Not that it matters since the one with the strange mane flipped me off…" "What?" Applejack asked.. "Nothing." Twilight said. "The train should arrive at Eight AM, so let's be here by Seven, everypony. Set your alarms and if there's trouble, I'll handle it." "Right!" the other Elements said as they parted ways for their residences, Twilight forming various plans in her mind in case of trouble. ==== The Next Day Eight Am As the train arrived in Ponyville, the 141 were already awake and ready for trouble. While Price mustered the men, Allen worked to unlock the car's cargo hatch. "How's that door coming?" Soap asked. "These latches weren't meant for human hands, that's for sure." Allen replied. "Fuck it, Ghost, toss me your shotgun." Ghost tossed Allen his M1014, and Allen blew the hinges off with two clean shots before tossing it back to Ghost. "Let's go." Price said as the door collapsed, revealing a treeline bordering on some grassland. "We don't have much time to find cover out here." As Roach and Grinch moved a crate to cover the vacant door, Price gave the sigganl for an "All clear". "Roger, let's go!" Sandman said as the 141 sprinted into the grass outside Ponyville, making sure hide themselves every so often. ==== "Where are they?" Rainbow moaned as they stood outside the train station. "It's eight AM and the train's there, but where are those things?" "Maybe they got off at a different stop." Spike suggested. "There's no stops between here and Canterlot." Twilight said. "They got off here, I'm sure of it." "Well, how much longer do we need to wait?" Rarity complained. Twilight was going to reply when Rainbow groaned and zoomed off into the sky. "Well, anypony else feel like quitting?" Twilight rolled her eyes. Then, Rainbow came back and pointed to the Everfree. "They got off the train through the Cargo hatch! They're heading for the Whitetail woods!" she cried. "If they make it to the Everfree, they're as good as gone! Hurry!" Twilight cried as she teleported them over the Train and sprinted off into the grass in pursuit. ==== "Price, we got six contacts on our left!" Truck whispered over the radio. "I see them." Price replied. "Hunker down, don't let them see you!" As the 141 went prone, the six ponies passed by, oblivious to their presence. They walked off into the distance, however they were still visible to the humans. "Move quietly into the woods." Price ordered. "Hold your fire, I repeat, hold your fire!" "Rog'." Sandman and the others spoke as they entered the woods one by one. However, they didn't notice the butter yellow pegasus in the group turn around and get a full view of Soap heading into the trees. ==== "I saw them! Over there!" Fluttershy said, louder than usual. As the six ponies spun around, they saw Allen head into the trees with his M4A1 at the ready. "Stop them!" Twilight shouted. The shout caught Allen's attention, and he dived into the forest after his teammates. "Well, what are we waiting for?" Rainbow yelled. Before the others could stop her, she blazed off into the forest. ==== "We've got one on our tail!" Allen yelled as the 141 sprinted through the foliage. "Closing fast!" "Allen, open fire! Aim to distract her! Get her into the open!" Price replied. Allen spun on his heel and emptied a full magazine into the trees. As the blue blur hooked right to avoid the bullets, Price hurled a Flashbang. The blue pegasus didn't see the incoming grenade until it detonated in her face, blinding her vision and sending her crashing into a sturdy oak tree branch. She spun around it for a few moments, then fell on the ground in a heap inside a clearing. "Ouch!" she moaned, rubbing her sore chest. "You know what, that's it! Come out and we'll do this face to face!" As the 141 came out from the trees, Price tossed his M4A1 to Soap and cracked his knuckles. "If you insist." he said, taking a fighting stance. Rainbow did the same, and she made the first attack. She dove towards Price's chest, aiming to tackle him. Price grabbed her and tossed her aside, sending her sprawling. Rainbow got back up, and with a growl, sprinted back again at Price. This time, Price sidestepped and grabbed her neck with the crook of his arm. The move made Price grunt with pain, but his move worked. Rainbow was now held securely by Price, who drew his M1911 and pointed it at her. "Whoever else is with this one, come out now!" he ordered, with the 141 crouching with weapons ready. The other Element Bearers approached, all of them ready for a fight. "Let her go!" Twilight ordered. "That's an order!" "Make me." Price replied. "And who the hell are you to be giving me orders?" Twilight growled in reply. "I am a Princess of Equestria, and Bearer of the Element of Magic!" she retorted. "If you don't release Rainbow immediately and come with us peacefully, I will use force!" Price then heard Faust speak in his mind, like telepathy. "Captain, those are the Elements of Harmony I told you about. You can go with them, I assure you that you'll be safe.' "Really?" Price thought. "Really." Faust replied. "I've brought you this far, haven't I?' "Fair point." Price thought again. He shrugged and tossed Rainbow to the ground, who scampered into a fighting stance. "Just so you know, that wasn't because you ordered me to." Price said to Twilight. "I take it you're the Elements of Harmony?" "Yes." Twilight said, growling. "You'll be coming with us..." "Fine." "And if you don't...what?" Twilight said upon hearing the word Price spoke. "You're surrendering?" "We're not surrendering." Price said as the 141 lowered their weapons. "We're just coming with you so you can explain everything we need to know. In exchange, we'll tell you what needs to be known. As long as no one else attacks us, that'll be the plan. Okay?" Twilight was taken aback, and she took a deep breath before answering. "Fine." she said. "Who are you?" "Captain John Price." he said. "I and my friends here are the members of Task Force 141." "Wait, Task Force 141?' Rarity asked. "Twilight, isn't that the name of the beings Luna told us about? The ones from that tear of Faust?" "That's right!" Spike added. "Weren't they elite Royal Guards or something like that?" Twilight's mental light bulb switched on above her head. "You're Task Force 141?" she asked. "For real?" "Yes." Price said. "Now, can we get a move on to wherever it is we're going to?" "Oh, right." Twilight said. "I guess my Castle would be okay?" "We'll follow you, then." Soap said, coming forward. As the Element Bearers and Task Force 141 exited the forest, Price tucked his jungle hat forward, sliding the brim over his forehead. Author's Note Update!
