Xcom: Alien Unknownby BronycommanderChaptersChapter 1 A familiar returnChapter 2 Unification dayChapter 3: VIPChapter 4: On The TrailChapter 5 Past SignalsChapter 6 Blacksite horrorChapter 7 DiscoveryChapter 8 UnsettlingChapter 9: Left behindChapter 10: Old WorldChapter 11 RetaliationChapter 12 Final AssaultChapter 13 VictoryChapter 1 A familiar returnChapter 1 A familiar return It was another beautiful day in the land of Equestria. A few weeks had passed since Fletcher brought Dinky home with her new friends Katja and Blau Streifen. The little unicorn was, at the moment in school and Family Appreciation Day was around the door once again. Unfortunately for the filly, both her parents were very busy at work today and so was her sister, Sparkler, but there was a new “family” member that would come instead. Still, she was always interested in what the other parents or family members had to say; for example, Rumble’s big brother Thunderlane, about becoming a Wonderbolt, or Pip’s mother, Nancy, telling about how hard it sometimes could be to launder sometimes. It may sound boring, but for Dinky, it was very interesting; by knowing such stories, she could help her parents better in the house. And even if she wasn’t interested in becoming rich, the stories of Diamond’s father were very useful financially if her parents should need a hoof. Dinky could also still remember how Apple Bloom’s grandmother, Granny Smith, told her how she helped in the founding of Ponyville, which fascinated the young unicorn. “Hey,” whispered a snide, yet familiar voice off to her side. She turned around to meet the smug grin of a unicorn colt. “Where’s your family member for this year, blank flank?” He asked. Dry Ice, so was his name, was the new bully of the class after Diamond stood up to her mother and respected the CMC. “I got one, just being busy,” she replied with a slight grin. “What, is it your mom? Given how clumsy she is, I wouldn’t be surprised she shows up after this is over.” “You will see.” Dinky countered. “Thank you very much, Filthy Rich,” Cheerilee said to Diamond’s father, who gave a proud grin before he returned with his daughter to her desk. “Now then, is there anypony else who we haven’t introduced yet?” There were a few seconds of silence before Cheerilee spoke again. “Nopony left? Alright then, well then I suppose that would conclude-“ “Excuse me, Miss Cheerilee?” Dry Ice spoke in a polite tone as he raised his hoof, “but I think we forgot Dinky.” Then he gave her a smug grin. “And where is your family member, Dinky?” The teacher asked as all eyes fell on her. “He’s delayed.” “Well, perhaps another time then.” The mare said as it was almost over. “I knew it,” the colt snickered. “You’re nothing without your parents, and your mother with her crossed eyes it just as stupid as your father.” That was a harsh insult and Dinky disliked it to see her parents insulted, yet she just took a deep breath. Her parents had taught her to ignore such things, that anger wouldn’t be good for her. “Excuse me, young colt?” a new voice spoke out. Everypony turned around as a unicorn stallion with green coat, long blond mane, and pupil-less blue eyes entered the room, causing the female unicorn to smile. “Uncle Fray!” She hugged him, he returned it. “Sorry, got a little caught up.” “It’s okay,” the filly said and turned to the class. “Everypony, my uncle, Fletcher Fray!” “Hello there.” The stallion greeted with a smile. The foals smiled, as they all knew him for his bravery in getting Dinky back, while their parents looked at him rather curious, having heard of it but never met him. “Before I start, any questions?” He asked the foals. A small hoof rose up amongst the crowd and Fray turned his head towards a pink Earth pony. “Yes?” “How did you become her uncle?” Lilly asked. “Well, finding and rescuing her from a parallel universe gripped by war, we established a sort of rapport, as it were,” he answered. “What is wrong with your eyes?” Rumble asked, causing Fray to think of an explanation. “Er...Well, that's kind of a long story. Let's just say 'Don't Play Around With Science' and leave it at that.” Noi then asked, “Where are you from?” “I may live in Equestria, but I was born in Farmany. It was Princess Luna personally that brought me to Equestria, as I was interested in exploration and knowledge of the world outside.” “Just 'cause Miss Perfect has a mum with 'special needs' and a dad that's friends with the Princesses....” Ice mumbled, which was not unheard by Fray. “What was that?” the stallion asked, his friendly expression became serious. “Nothing!” squeaked the colt in a tiny voice. “Right…” Fray said without emotion and looked at the colt. “Let me tell you something. Princess Luna helped me personally in securing the future of Farmany, something I’m grateful to this day. And Dinky’s parents are hardworking ponies who would do anything they can to make her happy. I believe that you’re just jealous and I highly advise to overcome it, or you will suffer from it. Believe me, I've seen more ponies suffer from its curse than you've seen days in your life. It never ended well for them. Do you what to share the same?” Dry Ice took a couple seconds to find his voice. “No, sir!” he squeaked. Fletcher nodded. “Good. Now, any other questions?” he asked into the round, the other foals and their family members, Cheerilee included, still tried to process what had just happened, before a little colt with brown marks broke the silence. “What is your story for this presentation?” Fray chuckled. “Well, sad to say, out of all the Eternal Knights, I probably have the least amount of stories I can tell, not for lack of trying. When they called me 'Greenhorn', they didn't necessarily mean this one”. He tapped his horn with another chuckle. “Still, I might have one that you will like.” He cleared his throat. “Do any of you really know what a ‘siege’ is?” Pipsqueak raised his hoof. “Yeah, I...I know this one. Um...There’s a castle. And...one army outside is attacking it. And one army inside is defending it. So the defending side hides behind the walls and shoots at the attackers with arrows and stuff and the attacking side tries to break down those walls with um...catapults and stuff.” Fletcher smiled with pride. “Very good. But you know, what they don’t tell you is that, often, you don’t need catapults or anything other than an army at the gate and plenty of time. The word 'siege' is taken from the Old Prench word for ‘seat’. That’s what they do. They sit outside and wait. Because while you may have your castle, they have your fields, your villages, your woods, your rivers...they have your food. How much food does one make inside the castle if its gates are always closed? Can you guess?” Apple Bloom raised her hoof. “Well, I mean...Ya'll have had cooks and bakers an' stuff, right?” “Yes, but where do you get all the vegetables or grain or fruit for them to cook and bake with? Remember, the gates are closed...” “You don’t have any food?!” Silver Spoon exclaimed in shock. “Nope. Only what you had inside before the siege began. And Lunich...hadn’t a whole lot in its larders. In a siege, the enemy’s greatest weapon is your own hunger. Your king and his soldiers have to guard the granaries as if they were his own keep, dividing and measuring what’s left of the food for everypony inside. You watch your meals get smaller and smaller by the day until you get to the point where you’re lucky if you see three meals a week, let alone a day!” Fray exclaimed. Truffle Shuffle looked at him with a shocked expression. “...I can’t even imagine going whole days without food.” “I’d pray you never have to. Me and Conrad pulled up every blade of grass and flower in the district, every root and seed, stripped the bark from the trees and then chopped the trees up as well, anything we could eat, however bad it tasted or how hard it was to chew. And outside, our enemies in the Gildenpakt, feasted in full view from below the walls. Every fine dish cooking on roaring fires and bubbling pots, the scent of all that food nearly driving the sentries mad. We pulled off most of the guards from the wall-tops for fear they’d throw themselves off in hunger. Then, word spread around the castle of just what they were eating. We started dreaming of that feasting table. And that was when the real troubles started. Our soldiers and the refugees began turning on us. More and more were arrested trying to break into the larders or out the gates or even murder us. Our cells began to overcrowd...and we couldn’t afford to feed them anymore.” The unicorn told in a calm voice as he remembered every detail. Sweetie Belle shook her head in disbelief. “That must have hurt. D-did the food run out before you were rescued?” “For some, yes. When the food really began to dwindle, we’re talking less than all of what this class could eat for supper tonight here, Conrad, me and the rest of our lords, knights and all those who were definitely prepared to go out fighting volunteered to bar themselves from the larders and make do with whatever we could find.” Dinky’s eyes went wide with admiration. “Wow! That was really kind of you to do that.” Her uncle shrugged. “It was more out of practicality really. We knew that if the already-unstable populace were to hear we were completely out of food, that would be the end of it. So for the next couple of days, we found a way to make a truly vile but filling soup out of...go on, have a guess...” The class was quiet. They looked to each other as they waited for his answer. “Books. We took paper and parchment from the local libraries and printers, boiled them into stews and drank it, then chewed on strips of the hard covers if we were still hungry.” A collective “Eeeeeeeew!” came from the class. Fletcher chuckled in response. “Yeah, but it got worse, if you can believe it.” Diamond Tiara asked in disgust “How could it get worse than ‘book-stew?!’” Fray grinned. “You sure you want to know?” Snips and Snails grinned back. “Yeah, we’re sure!” “Well...one day, I remember, me and some other guards were patrolling drainage systems and found moss and fungus...” The green stallion smiled awkwardly, “Now...” “Ugh, you didn’t eat stuff growing in the sewers, did you?!” Tiara asked. “It was alright. We boiled it soft and then rubbed it with salt to get rid of anything deadly then ate it...” “And...you were okay?” Sweetie Belle was curious. “What? No, no, it was growing in a sewer for crying out loud! It was still covered in germs. Woke up every night to vomit till my face went blue.” He chuckled. “But it was better than starving!” The class let out another collective “EEEEEEEEW!” “I know, but drastic times call for drastic measures. We did anything to survive. And survive we did.” “How?” Noi asked. “We had an ally. A smuggler, which slipped through the siege via the canal, bringing a great shipment of fruit, vegetables, grain and milk, revitalizing us nicely. She'd also brought a secret weapon.” “And that was?” Pip wanted to know. “A full shipment of reflective glass. At midnight, when the Gildenpakt concocted another volley, the defenders lined up on the walls, I commanded them, and produced an enormous row of mirrors that reflected Luna's moon at its peak. It blinded and disorientated the archers below while we rained arrows freely upon them. During this, my friend Conrad, together with Luna and her knights managed to lift the siege, which marked also the end of the Gildenpakt. This victory also marked a new era of peace for Farmany.” Fray finished. After he had finished, there was silence and the pupils looked in fascination at him. Pip started to clap, followed by Tootsie, Ruby, Noi and the CMC, then the rest of the class. “I’m pleased to see you liked it.” Fray said with a smile. Shortly after, class was over and Dinky went home with her uncle. “That was great, uncle Fray!” “Glad to hear it.” “I hope Katja and Blau enjoy their school trip, I’m pretty sure their parents had also a lot to tell at Family Appreciation Day.” “You could ask them once they are back.” Fletcher suggested. “Of course.” Once they arrived at home, she called out, “Mama, Papa, I’m home!” “Welcome home, sweetheart, how was school?” Derpy asked with smile as she walked out of the kitchen. “Great! Uncle Fray’s presentation was wonderful!” the little unicorn exclaimed happy as she dropped her school bag and ate a muffin.” “Glad to hear it.” “Yes, it’s nice to hear that everything went well,” Derpy’s husband smiled with pride. “Yep, better than expected! Now come, uncle, the Cutie Mark Crusaders are waiting for us!” The filly hopped out of the door with a happy smile. Fletcher just laughed and followed her, with her parents watching after them. “I never thought he could be so good with children.” The brown stallion commented. “If you ask me, after all he went through, he earned it to have somepony at his side that makes him feel joy. Same goes for Wolf and Midnight,” Derpy said. The two unicorns walked towards Sweet Apple Acres where Midnight was currently helping out. Apple Bloom greeted them. “Welcome. That was really a nice presentation you two made.” “Thank you, Apple Bloom,” Dinky replied as the earth pony led them to the bat pony. He was helping to buck the trees, he just bucked another one as it friends arrived but strangely no apples fell from it. “Huh?” Midnight looked up in confusion before an avalanche of apples buried him. He poked his head out and spit out an apple that had landed in his mouth. “Did you become a fruit bat?” Fletcher joked at the sight. “Haven’t planned on it,” Midnight replied as Apple Bloom helped him out. Dinky looked up into the sky and saw Scootaloo with Rainbow Dash and White Wolf on a cloud. It was a sunny day, perfect to fly around and Scootaloo seemed eager to enjoy it to the fullest, the two mares looked with smiles at the foal. “Ready to learn to fly, Scoots?” Wolf asked as the filly climbed from Rainbow’s back. Scootaloo nodded. “You bet.” Wolf then lifted the filly up onto a forehoof, and hovered into the air. “Alright, remember what I told you, concentrate and breathe deeply.” The Mare took off and hovered over the cloud as Scootaloo tried her hardest flapping her wings fast, and strong. Rainbow Dash smiled proudly. "Look kid, you are doing it." Scootaloo looked around, and below herself, she saw that she wasn't falling. She looked side to side to see that she was keeping herself in the air by her wings. “Yes! I'm flying. This is so awesome!” She beamed with excitement as she tried out her luck by doing a loop in midair. Oh, yeah.” She then turned to Wolf and hugged her. “You're the best, Auntie Wolf!” The other Pegasus cleared her throat. “Next to Rainbow of course,” Scootaloo corrected with a weak smile. “I think it took a little working your way from the bottom. It was much the same for me. I didn't know how to use my wings until much later in life. Late-learners need a little more complex teachings,” the Stormrunner told the filly as it reminded her of her flying lessons years ago. “Say, Wolf, ever thought of joining the Wonderbolts? You look like someone that has what it takes to be one.” Rainbow complimented her. The Knight chuckled. “Thank you for the compliment, but that would conflict with my job as Eternal Knight.” They then landed on the ground next to their friends. “Congratulations, Scootaloo,” Dinky said, she felt happy that the orange Pegasus could finally fly. “Me too!” a new, young voice exclaimed and they saw Sweetie Belle join them as she pulled out a box with cookies out of her saddlebag. “Your cooking lessons really paid off, I improved a lot!” “Glad to hear it,” Fray said and tried one with his friends’ cookies, they were delicious. “Looks like I’m just in time.” They turned around and saw Dawnwind walking towards them. “And I thought an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” Midnight joked as the deer was a seer and druid. “Yeah...If you throw them at him. Besides, I'm as good a doctor as any,” she replied as she ate one of the cookies. “Rainbow! There you are!” two very happy voices called out. “Oh no…” Rainbow mumbled before she and Wolf got pulled into a group hug. “Wolf…meet my parents…” She said with discomfort as Wolf looked at the mare and stallion. “Rainbow, your parents are touching me.” Wolf also had discomfort in her voice. “Yeah, they do that.” “Can you get them to stop? It's making me feel very uncomfortable.” Dash’s father let go. “What? Sorry, sorry, I wasn't touching anywhere...personal, was I?” he asked nervously. “For Wolf, anywhere is personal.” Fletcher pointed out. “I'm afraid Miss White Wolf isn't such a fan of pony contact.” Midnight added. “Sorry, dear. We'll try and er...keep it real...is that what the kids call it?” Windy asked embarrassed. “I wouldn't know, we’re about as old as Luna,” the blue mare replied. Windy Whistles gave a weak smile. “Ha! Did you hear that?” she laughed. “And they said the Eternal Knights had no sense of humor.” “I wasn't joking. In fact, Midnight's about twenty years older than her,” White Wolf explained, causing the two parents to be silent for a few minutes. “...Wow...er...what was she...like? At...that age?” Dash’s father wanted to know. “Cooler than you ever could be, old timer, take it from me,” Wolf said with a grin. “Hey, can we now go to Sugarcube Corner or not?” Apple Bloom interrupted. She was getting impatient. “Of course, Apple Bloom. You go ahead and reserve for us, we still get a few trees to buck.” Midnight replied. She hugged him. “Sure thing, uncle Midnight!” “Dawnwind, would you and Rainbow escort them until we join?” Wolf asked her aunt. The deer laughed sarcastically. “Wolf, a quick word, if you please?” She grabbed her without waiting for a reply and whispered angrily, “This was not part of the deal!” “It was not. And yet, here we are,” the Pegasus replied calmly. “Helping raise you and your siblings was bad enough! I am not, under any circumstances, wasting my afternoon babysitting a trio of sugar-hyped town-ponies!” Apple Bloom growled “We ain't babies! We're grown foals!” Dawnwind responded to her, irritated, “And I'm older than your princess! Bite me!” “Dawnwind!” Wolf looked at her sternly, “What was it you promised Farseerer before coming with me?” The deer sighed before she mumbled begrudgingly, “Be nice to the town-ponies.” Wolf grinned. “Well, this is your chance. Bye!” Dawnwind muttered something in a foreign language as Rainbow said, “No problem. Let’s go, Scoots.” And with that, the four Pegasi took off into the air, followed by the two foals and mare, but Dinky stayed with the Knights. “Mind if I help you? My father always told me, first work, then play.” “Not at all, Dinky,” Fray smiled, he appreciated her helpfulness. The filly picked and put the apples in the buckets and carried them away, while the adults did the bucking. Since they worked together, they finished the work in just a few minutes. “Well that went smoothly. Now, let’s go.” The bat pony said and they made their way towards Sugarcube Corner. Dinky hopped ahead and hummed, which warmed the hearts of the Eternal Knights. “Derpy can really be proud of her,” Wolf commented. “Dinky is a daughter any parent could wish for.” “Yeah. She reminds me of Adalie,” Fray mentioned in a sad voice, his head lowered. “Fletch, cheer up, don’t look back, Midnight comforted him. “I know, she is just so familiar, it was also one of the reason I swore myself to get her back.” Fletcher let out a sigh. “And you did great, you can be proud of that, I’m sure your parents and Ruhlinda would be too.” The unicorn smiled weakly. “I hope so....” Bang! A loud explosion started everypony, Dinky jumped into the air in fear. “W-what was that?” She asked. She noticed the knights had their weapons drawn and looked around but couldn’t see anything. “I don’t know,” Fletcher replied before he noticed that the filly stared at his bow. “Sorry, old habit, we mostly are only unarmed when doing work with Patch or Luna,” he replied as he put his bow back into his saddle bag. “Guess it was nothing,” Midnight put his blade away. “Let’s hope so,” the filly replied before a loud humming sound crept her ears. Dinky turned into it’s direction and spotted a large purple-colored rift on a field. “What’s that?” She asked in confusion. “I don’t know, I have never seen anything like this before,” Midnight said suspiciously. “We better report that in.” “Right, led the way.” Wolf said but suddenly, the rift grew brighter and they felt how they got sucked towards it. “Hold into something!” she yelled and tried to grab something before they heard Dinky scream, and got pulled in with her. The little filly gasped and breathed heavily as she awoke. She looked around her surroundings and tried to remember what happened. Wherever she was, she found herself in a dark alley, and rain was drenched her heavily. Dinky took deep breaths. Okay…calm down, don’t panic. She noticed Fray and his friend weren’t next to her. “Fletcher? Wolf? Midnight?” she called out but got no reply. She was startled by a loud thunder. The sound scared her, that caused her to cry and tremble as he covered her ears. “Mommy! Daddy!” he called out instinctively. “Did you hear that?” a female voice called out and reached to her ears. “Yes, sounds like a lost child.” a male voice replied. Faintly, the filly saw two human-like silhouettes. They came closer and she was able to see them fully once they stepped into a light. The filly saw that they were really humans, like she had seen on her first stay in Earth before. It was a man and a woman, both wore raincoats. to Due the darkness, she could only make out that they both looked confused at her. “P-please can you help me? I’m lost,” she asked them. Her voice caused the humans to take a step back, and shook their heads in disbelief. It made sense to Dinky, they had, like many humans never seen a unicorn before, let alone a talking one. Still, somehow, the filly could tell these two would help her, like Escher, a human soldier had done before when he found her as she ended up on Earth before. Maybe it was the look in their eyes, or their expressions, she couldn’t really tell. The woman kneeled down with a friendly expression. “Of course we’ll help you.” she gently took Dinky into her arms and covered her with her raincoat to keep her warm and away from any more rainfall. As the two humans walked out of the ally, the filly noticed how the city looked. Most buildings were skyscrapers, they protruded meters into the sky. The streets were lined with them, all of them seemed to be built from some sleek, chrome-like material. Statues of an alien creature Dinky had never seen before. Its body resembled that of a human, but had four arms instead, stretched out like it was about to give a hug. But most notable was the head. It could be mistaken for a mask the way it opened up into a void like some kind of clam or starfish or unknown creature of the deep. Another stature showed an alien with a more humanoid posture helping a human up. She also took notice that billboards appeared to be holographic, something she thought only existed in Science Fiction. The cars that were parked or drove around had a low and thin design, they looked very elegant. Everything looked overall very futuristic, like a city in Science Fiction but it also reminded her of Canterlot somehow. “ADVENT reminds all citizens that tonight’s curfew is for your protection,” a female PA voice informed to the streets, “Citizens without a valid exemption should report immediately to their nearest ADVENT peacekeeper for assistance.” The filly spotted what appeared to be a human soldier in the distance. He wore a dark gray body suit with black armor plating. The boots reached up to his knees, each marked with a red light on the knee pads. A pelvic plate covered the human's groin, lined with a pair of red lines where the leggings met the plate, and six gray ammunition packs line their upper legs, three packs on each leg she counted. Additional ammo packs were attached to the front and back of the trooper's belt, with a buckle consisting of two square notches. The breastplate took the shape of a gray, stereotypical bulletproof vest, decorated with even more ammo packs. A pair of pauldrons guarded the shoulders, each marked with a red light. Also, the human's forearms were protected with gray bracers and gloves marked with red knuckles. But most interesting was the helmet he wore. Gray in color, angular, and covered the entire head, save for an opening on the front that revealed his mouth. He held a black colored rifle in his hands. Overall, it made him look like a futuristic foot soldier. The soldier spotted the two humans and made a stop sign. He said something in a language she couldn’t understand. “We were just about to go home,” the man replied calmly as the child saw another soldier walked up to them. Like the other, only the mouth was visible, but the armor was colored red and he had a cape. He also wore a pair of red plates that protected the outer sides of the upper legs. Their entire torso from neck to groin was covered with angular gray armor plating with red markings on the breastplate. The helmet had a peaked design with a red front and top and gray sides. It held onto his head with a metal chin bar, Dinky assumed it was an officer. He said something to the other soldier, who replied in the same incomprehensible language. Then the officer looked at the two humans, nodded, and stepped aside. “The ADVENT Administration reminds you to report all suspicious activity to your nearest peacekeeper,“ the PA voice announced again, “Remember, only together we can build a better tomorrow.” It didn’t take long for the two humans to reach their home. It looked like a normal house, but in the same chrome-like material. The furniture was simple for the living room, it contained a radio, a TV and a couch. “Looks like a very nice home.” The filly looked at it with a smile. “Glad to hear it. “Would you be nice and get a towel?” the woman asked the man, who nodded in response. “Of course, dear.” After the man had dried Dinky, which she appreciated, she was able to see them fully. The man had brown hair and green eyes, while the woman had brown hair with blue eyes. Both had an average build, apparently in their late twenties or early thirties. The male’s face was thin with a narrow chin, the woman’s face was broad and a wide chin. “It's alright, kid. You're safe here. This is our house. I'm Lukas Barber, and this is my wife Lena,” the man said and he introduced himself and his wife. “I’m Dinky Hooves,” the filly replied in a still shaken voice, which caused her hosts to look at each other in surprise before both smiled. “Interesting name. Let me make you a soup to warm you up,” Lena offered and walked into the kitchen, to make a potato soup for their young guest. In the moment, the unicorn was about to walk into the kitchen, when another loud thunder came that caused her to flinch and cover her ears again. “Shh, don’t be scared, we’re here for you.” Lena said in a comforting voice as he hugged her. Dinky smiled weakly. “Thank you, thunder kinda scares me.” “It’s okay. Now, time to eat.” The woman helped her on the chair and the unicorn lit up her horn to use the spoon, her yellow surrounded it and lifted it up as her horn glowed in the same aura. Her hosts look with fascination. “Did you just?” Lukas asked surprised. “Well, yes, where I’m from, every unicorn can do that,” Dinky explained. “Then, would you like to tell us more?” Lena was curious. “Of course.” The filly took a deep breath. “I’m from a country called Equestria. Ponies live together in harmony. There are unicorns like me, who can use magic, Pegasi ponies and Earth ponies. Pegasi can fly and manipulate the weather. The Special Talent of a pony is represented by a ‘Cutie Mark’ on the flank, which I haven’t got one yet. Equestria is ruled by Princess Celestia and Luna. They’re Alicorns and they control the sun and moon.” “Interesting, Dinky,” The man commented, still being fascinated. “I know. I was born in Ponyville, a village in Equestria. My parents are a pegasus pony called Derpy Hooves and an earth pony named Time Turner, some ponies call him Doctor Hooves. I also have two sisters, both are unicorns, Tootsie Flute and her big sister Sparkler. I also have an uncle called Fletcher Fray. As for how I got here, me and him were near a purple rift that appeared out of nowhere and sucked us in. As I woke up, I found myself in the dark alley,” she explained as she ate her soup and enjoyed the warmth. “Sorry to hear that,” Lena said with sympathy. She smiled weakly. “We are humans.” “I’m actually familiar with your species,” Dinky continued, “Some time ago, I landed on Earth before due to an accident. Fletcher was dispatched by Luna to find me and we befriended each other in the process, and became like a family. He is one of Luna’s most loyal and experienced guards.” Both humans stayed quiet for a few seconds, before the man broke the silence. “Sounds very fascinating, Dinky. Here, the world changed after…an invasion.” The filly’s eyes went wide. “I-invasion?” “Yes.” Lena replied. “Now it’s 2035 in March. 20 years ago, in 2015 also in March, Earth was victim to a global alien invasion. As the conventional militaries failed, an Elite unit called Extraterrestrial Combat Unit, XCOM for short, was founded to repel the alien invaders, being the first and last line of defense. They did well, but eventually, the world leaders had offered unconditional surrender to the leader of the aliens, the Elders.” “Were those the statues with the four arms?” the filly asked. “Correct. They made humanity believe that they came in peace, and that the forces of Earth retaliated aggressively and with prejudice. The ADVENT Administration is the global government and law enforcement, being founded after the Unification in 2015. Those two soldiers you saw belong to ADVENT.” “How…how do you know all this? And why humanity would allow this all after this...Invasion?” The filly could not understand. “Well, my father used to fight in XCOM back then, wanting to protect me and my mother. I and my wife witnessed the invasion, it was horrible.” Lukas told with unease in his voice. “As such, we don’t believe it, but pretend to be to avoid trouble. As for others, with ADVENT, hybridization of human and alien technology occurred in various ways, enabling humanity to conquer many formerly incurable diseases. They made City Centers out of the old cities, like this one, which is Berlin, our hometown. Many, who never witnessed the invasion, directly believed that the Elders came in peace and the war being an unfortunate misunderstanding. For every collateral damage and civilian death, the Elders were deeply saddened.” Dinky blinked, trying to understand. “It…makes sense…kinda. What else is here?” Lena continued to explain, “Well, there are slums, where the…not so kind people live. Outside of the City Centers are ramshackle ‘Shanty Towns’, those are colonies or people who prefer the old way of living, and Small towns still exist, populated by people who need time to decide to accept to live in the City Centers or prefer the life before the aliens. Still, ADVENT maintains order here.” “I see,” the filly replied before having to yawn. She noticed that the rain had stopped and the evening sun came out. “Yes, it’s a complicated world. You should get some sleep. It was an exhausting day for you. We have a guest room with a bed. Lukas, would you be so kind?” “Yes, my dear,” the man replied. Lukas guided Dinky to the guest room and tucked her in. “Goodnight, Dinky, sweet dreams.” She smiled. “Thank you. “If you need something, the door to our bedroom is open.” “Okay.” The unicorn let out another yawn and drifted to sleep. She hoped that Fletcher, Wolf and Midnight would be alright. Although one thought entered her mind. Why does this feel like a déjà vu? Lena waited in the corridor. “Look at her, fast asleep in no time. Little angel.” “Yes, she does. Can you actually believe that our favorite filly from our favorite kids show back then is with us?” he asked as they both got to bed. “It was hard to believe at first, but we owe it to her family to keep her safe,” his wife replied. “Indeed. I love you." “I love you too,” they both kissed before they drifted off to sleep. Author's Note The sequel to Blood in the Sand, an Xcom crossover. Due to the gameplay mechanics, I thought this could suit. Chapter 2 Unification dayChapter 2 Unification day As Dinky woke up, she could see Ponyville in the distance, her home. Full of joy, she galloped towards it. Her pace slowed. She blinked. Her nostrils stung. The grass felt dry beneath her hooves. The ground itself felt crumbly. She suddenly realized the lights in the distant town, weren't those of welcome. She saw that the town was burning and screams could be heard. She feared for her family and friends. The little unicorn ran as fast as she could towards the town, and became horrified at what she saw. Most of the buildings were destroyed and corpses littered. Despite being scared, she looked at them and hoped that her friends and family weren’t among them. Then, a horrifying screech came from behind. As she slowly turned around, the filly trembled as a four-legged purple colored creature stood a few meters away from her. The creature had two claws, very sharp tow formed its teeth, Its eyes glowed yellow. Something told the unicorn that this creature was responsible for this, but she was too scared to run and frozen on the spot. Dinky screamed as it leaped towards her, her life flashing before her eyes. “Get away from her!!” Sparkler’s voice ringed in her ears, mixed with the sounds of fighting. Slowly opening her ears, she saw how the older unicorn was fighting the insect-like creature with her bare hooves, covered in blood. “Dinky, run!” the mare yelled. She didn’t have to say it twice. Dinky ran as fast as her legs could carry her. She hid in a small, still intact building and slammed the door shut. She cowered as she peeked out of the window. Sparkler bravely stood her ground but then, the creature hit her into her chest with its teeth and lifted her into the air. She screamed in pain before she became limp. Sparkler…N-no… The creature then dropped the body; it implanted what looked like an egg into the mare’s chest, then walked out of sight. Dinky just stared, not able to believe what had just happened. Her big sister was dead, the rest of her family and friends probably too. She curled herself into a ball and cried. A horrible groan made her flinch. As she dared to peek out of the window again, she witnessed in horror how the body of Sparkler stood up, her eyes glowed red and her skin pale. Whatever the insect thing had done to Sparkler, it had forced her to rise again as some mindless, lifeless creature. The undead pony wandered aimlessly in a slow stumbling manner. Dinky wanted to look away but she just couldn’t. After what seemed like hours, the unicorn started to bleed from the mouth and vomited blood. It made the young filly wonder what has happened. The zombie collapsed and twitched as if it was about to burst. To Dinky’s horror, it did burst and a smaller version of those creatures hatched from the body. It had a visually lighter color. It stared at her, then lunged at her. The last thing she heard was her own scream. In that moment, the filly jumped up with a scream, breathing heavy and had cold sweat on her face. Within seconds, the door to the guest room opened and the married couple came in with worried expressions. “Dinky, are you alright?” the man asked. “I-I…had a nightmare…”the filly said in a shaken voice before Lena scooped the filly in her arms. “Shh, it was just a dream. Please calm down,” she spoke in a calming and motherly tone, before she wiped out a few tears out of Dinky’s eyes. Dinky buried her head into Lena’s chest. Lena patted her mane. “Shhh...Don't worry. We are here...Shhh.” She rocked Dinky and hummed a lullaby to her. Before Dinky fell asleep, the woman whispered, “You can sleep with us.” Once back in bed, she said to her husband, “Goodnight, my dear.” They all slept peaceful. It was early morning when Lukas woke up, and he had to smile to what he saw. The little filly smiled in her sleep while being hugged by his wife. Despite this heartwarming sight, he wasted no time to have breakfast and went to work. The middle-aged man worked at the local bakery and specialized in sweets like muffins. His mother used to be a baker and his idea of specializing in treats came from Dinky’s mother. He barely entered the bakery as a voice called out, “Good morning, Lukas, how’s it going?” He turned around to see a man with similar height and build as him as he walked in, but he had a broad face and chin, green eyes and black hair. “I’m doing well, Franz, what may it be?” He asked in a friendly tone to his first customer of the day. Lukas and Franz were best friends since grade school. “A coffee and a pretzel please.” “There you go.” “Thanks.” Franz ate with a smile, it showed that he enjoyed it. “I’m also glad to hear that you and your wife are doing fine. My liver is killing me again. I’m afraid the gene clinic will be the only option left for me.” He had suffered from liver problems since he was a child. Barber shuddered at those words. His mother suffered once from cancer and went to a gene clinic to cure it, but never returned. As such, it filled him with unease. “Okay, just be careful,” he replied with worry, he didn’t want to lose him too. “Of course, my friend. Can you give your wife my regards?” “Sure thing,” Lukas replied as his friend paid for the meal and left. The young unicorn woke up with a yawn. She smiled as she saw that Lena was still asleep and that it was sunny outside. Dinky carefully climbed out of the bed and walked into the kitchen to make breakfast for the woman. It was the least she could do as repayment for their hospitality. Plus, she made breakfast often for her parents and Fletcher and they were pleased every time. A delicious smell crept into Lena’s nose and caused her to stir and wake up. “Good morning, I made you breakfast.” Dinky walked in with a breakfast board, a piece of toast and a glass of juice in it. “Oh, Dinky, you really didn't have to. Thanks so much,” the woman said with a smile. She enjoyed her meal, which pleased Dinky. “I'm glad you liked it. What have you planned for today?” “Today is an important holiday, so I actually have today free. I had planned to clean the house. What you like to help?” The filly grinned. “With pleasure! And where is Lukas?” “At work, he’s a baker like his mother used to be, but comes back around noon or afternoon at holidays.” “Okay.” The day at work was mostly quiet, but Lukas couldn’t complain, he liked the job, yet was glad when he could close up and go home. Around 2PM, he closed the bakery and went home for lunch. He brought some pretzels from his bakery. “Welcome back!” the child greeted with glee. “Thank you, Dinky,” he replied with a smile before they had lunch, the filly enjoyed it to the fullest. “They taste really well, you sure know your job,” she complimented him. “Glad to hear it, I learned it from my mother.” “That's nice. So did I. How is she doing?” the unicorn asked with innocence. The man sighed. “She was great.” “Oh…” The child lowered her ears in guilt. “I’m sorry.” Lukas stroked her mane. “It’s okay, you couldn’t have known that.” The filly then asked with a weak smile, “How did you got to met your wife?” Lena took the word. “There isn’t much to tell, we went to the same school. And…witnessed the invasion…” The woman shuddered with a slightly horrified expression. “Sorry that I brought back bad memories…” Dinky lowered her head. Lena in return gave her a hug with a weak smile. “It’s fine, Dinky. We were just around your age back then, maybe a bit younger or older, I can’t remember exactly. It started like any other day. We went to school that morning, and the only thing we were thinking about was what to do after class. Suddenly, there was an explosion that shook the whole building. I remember the windows rattled and the teacher looked out of the window, and his expression terrified. We all went to the windows to look out, and we saw this… thing. A giant spaceship came out through the clouds, and emitted a green light… plasma shots, rained down onto the city. I saw buildings just collapse, and fire spreaded all over.” She took a deep breath, her voice was shaken her expression became slightly horrified again. “We went to shelter shortly after, but then the-the things landed… I saw the first one hit the ground next to our school and released green gas, that sucked everyone in that was near it.” “We heard screams and held each other for dear life as it went on for what seemed like hours.” Lukas continued, his voice and expression were also unsettled. “When it stopped, we saw blood and bodies of dead teachers and students in the hallways as the roof had taken a hit from the plasma, a clear line through the middle. Then, those aliens came and started to abduct people. It made us both hope that help would arrive quickly. , Fortunately it did, in the form of XCOM. A squad of soldiers quickly moved in and eliminated the aliens before they could get into the school. We both were very grateful back then, but the screams and blood…both burned themselves into our minds.” He finished with a disturbed voice. “Oh my…I can’t imagine how horrible this must have been,” the filly said with a hint of shock in her voice. “Yes. We watched the news from a fallout shelter as their biggest ship arrived off the coast of South America, it caused earthquakes across the planet, and made us fear for the worst,” Lukas said as he took another deep breath. “XCOM managed to destroy it, and we thought that was it. But it wasn’t…” “What happened?” Dinky asked. “Shortly after, another big ship arrived. And another, and another. The resistance was defeated worldwide and we held our breaths as we waited for the aliens to suddenly strike us down.” He started to tremble slightly, his voice was close to break down. “But they didn't. The governments made peace with the Elders. They moved entire populations to the newly made City Centers which they created within a month. Old cities were brought down, the rubble cleared, and new ones erected in their place.” He slowly stopped to tremble, his voice was shaken again. It took the filly a moment to process everything. “I see. You said your father was serving in XCOM, what happened to him?” The man let out a sigh. “After the peace treaty, my mother and I got visit from a XCOM soldier that had managed to escape death. He told us that my father was killed in action, and gave my mother his wedding ring. That was how I got to know he was in XCOM. And I will never forgot their efforts to defend us. It was six months of living in fear and they fought hard to keep earth safe.” Dinky couldn’t imagine how hard and terrifying that must have been. “I’m sorry to hear that.” Lukas smiled weakly. “It’s okay, it’s in the past. Now let’s enjoy the rest of the day.” The two adults decided to play “Do not get angry” with Dinky, which she knew from home under the same name. She often played it with her friends. It was a German board game, for up to six players. The goal for each player was to move four figures from the old “home” into the new “home” by making a clockwise round on the board, but a player could throw out a figure from other players if they landed on them, it forced said player to get the figure out of the old house again. This could frustrate any player, thus the name of the game. For some reason, the married couple felt a sense of joy they hadn’t felt in years; their hearts were warmed after they saw Dinky was happy and had fun. As such they weren’t surprised when she finished first with a smile. The hours passed and soon became evening. Lena made some fried potatoes for the three of them for dinner. The foal had good manners and ate with both knife and fork. She used her magic to do so and smiled to show her hosts that she enjoyed her meal. “They taste really good, you’re a good cook, Lena.” “Thanks for the compliment.” “I wanted to ask, what is this holiday you spoke of?” Dinky wanted to know. “It’s the Unification Day, celebrating when the peace treaty was made 20 years ago.” Lena explained. “Makes sense.” Dinky replied as she finished her meal. “It should start any moment now.” Lukas turned the TV on and it showed the ADVENT logo, a strange, foreboding, jigsaw-like monogram, black on red before a news reporter was shown. AVENT troops marched in formation, led by officers who saluted by making a fist to their chest as reporters could be seen in the background broadcasting live . “Excitement continues to build as city centers across the globe prepare for the 20th anniversary of Unification Day.” The reporter said and the picture behind him switched to civilians that have gathered on the streets. “Thousands line up at the side of the Great Accord, celebrating the formation of the ADVENT Coalition.” The Great Acord looked like a stage with a big screen and a large Elder statue behind it that stood tall, high into the sky. “In keeping with their promise to humanity, 12 new gene clinics will be opening in selected cities by the end of the new year.” It then showed one of the clinics It looked like a typical hospital, expect, it had a logo of DNA on the roof before a damaged clinic was shown. “Despite the attack by fringe Elements, operations in the new facility in Paris thankfully remain unaffected. In response to the unprovoked intrusion on the eve of our most beloved celebration, the Speaker reaches out to us.” The broadcast switched back to the Great Accord. It showed a man with short black hair and blue suit as he walked up on the stage, his eyes hidden by black sunglasses. The filly also took notice that he had green splotches on his neck. “A small number of dissidents again repeat the mistakes of the old world.” The speaker started as a live broadcast of ADVENT troops that fought resistance members and aided civilians caught in the crossfire was shown. “Striking as we celebrate a benevolent savior who time and again offers only friendship and compassion. Yet these trivial actions could never break the bond between humanity and the Elders.” The scene then showed ADVENT troops making arrests and raids as the news reporter continued, “Peacekeeping forces have already made several preemptive arrests of known collaborators. ADVENT again assures that today’s celebrations will continue as planned.” The broadcast then ended. The unicorn stayed silent as she did not know what to say, before Lukas looked at her. “While many attend it, we stay home. Can’t leave you without company, can we?” Dinky smiled. “I guess. Even if it’s only a day, I already enjoy your company. I think you would make good parents.” Lena chuckled. “It pleases me that you think that of us. We actually planned to have a child, but in order to do that, I would have to visit the local gene clinic for tests, but I’m afraid to go there.” Dinky’s expression became confused. “Why? Are you afraid of needles?” “No, nothing like that. We had some friends that visited the clinics and went missing afterwards. I don’t want to lose my husband, he’s everything I have left now.” The woman’s reply was filled with sadness as her head lowered. “I see. May I help you in the kitchen?” The filly wanted to help in any way she could. Lena smiled. “We appreciate your help, but leave it to us.” “Okay, I’ll be in the living room.” While the two adults cleaned the kitchen, the woman spoke up. “Her parents really raised her well, they can be proud of her.” “Yeah, though I wonder how her uncle looks like,” Lukas replied as he finished putting everything into the dishwasher before his wife said, “Honey, look.” What they both saw warmed their hearts. Dinky has fallen asleep on the floor with several drawn pictures. The first one were her parents, the Brown Earth pony known as Time Turner, or Doctor Whooves and the grey Pegasus mare known as Derpy. The second picture showed her big sister Sparkler, together with the unicorn filly Tootsie Flute. It made sense as the filly was seen with Sparkler together in one episode. The next picture showed her friends. The little colt known as Pipsqueak, the three fillies known as the CMC, the unicorn called Ruby Pinch and many more. The two bronies took notice that along Dinky’s friends, there was a grey Earth pony colt with a human girl that had yellow and orange striped hair. The married couple decided not to think much about it as they looked at the last picture. Three ponies, a green unicorn, a blue Pegasus and a grey bat pony. The unicorn had written “Best uncle ever” under it. All pictures had writing that said, “I miss you.” “That must be Fletcher Fray.” Lena said with a sad voice. She knew that the filly missed her family and friends already. “Yeah, still, we must do anything we can to keep her safe until they find her.” Lukas replied before he tucked the child in. “Indeed,” His wife replied as they went to bed. The filly woke up with a yawn in the morning and noticed a delicious smell in her nose. “Good morning, I made you breakfast.” The woman walked in with a breakfast board to give toast with juice to repay the generous action. “Thank you very much,” Dinky smiled and ate her breakfast with glee. After she finished, she noticed that it was hot today and decided to get another glass out of the fridge. “I’m thirsty.” The eyes of the humans went wide as the unicorn levitated a giant glass out of the fridge with a determined expression, and nodded. “This is an extreme thirst!” It created a small shockwave as she putted it down. “Uhh…”Lukas was lost for words. The unicorn grinned. “Just an illusion spell I learned from Sparkler.” And in a flash, the glass went back to normal size. “This warm weather just makes me very thirsty.” The wife chuckled. “Of course.” The filly let out a happy sigh after she drank the juice. “Much better!” Suddenly the doorbell rang, followed by a not very gently knock on the door, yet not rude either. “Visitors so early in the morning? Dinky, stay out of sight.” Lukas looked at her, she nodded and walked back into the guest room. As he opened the door, he saw an ADVENT officer together with two normal soldiers standing before him. “Mr. Lukas Barber?” the officer asked in German. “Yes?” he asked slightly nervous in return. “Please come with us. We only have a few questions.” Lukas nodded before looking at his wife, who had a worried expression. He gave her a hug, with the ADVENT soldiers watching neutral before they left with him. Dinky had watched everything and noticed that Luna started to sob. Without hesitation, the filly hugged her in an attempt to cheer her up. The pony could tell that this wasn’t good and that she had to be here for the woman, as she had been there for her with Lukas. Author's Note At least they weren't here for Dinky. Chapter 3: VIPChapter 3: VIP Lena sobbed for several minutes before she calmed down. “I’m here for you,” the filly said in a comforting voice, like her parents and sister did when she felt sad. The woman sniffed. “Sorry… It’s just…Once you get taken away by ADVENT, you're never heard from again,” she told with a sad voice. “B-but…they can’t just take people without a reason!” Dinky replied in disbelief. “ADVENT can do as they please, sadly, they are in charge of Earth after all.” “Why? Why did they take him? He did nothing wrong!” The unicorn exclaimed. “I don’t know. Maybe they knew about his father. Or just…wrong place at the wrong time,” she replied, stroking the foal’s mane. She knew, even with her husband gone, she had to make sure Dinky wouldn’t be taken too. She was the only thing left know and the filly’s family and friends would be destroyed if something would happen to her. “I hope they won’t hurt him,” Dinky said with fear in her voice. Lukas was taken into a squad car. He expected to be brought to the local station for questioning. But that expectation vanished as the car left the City Center. “Uhh, the station is in the city, not outside,” he said, slightly worried. “There is nothing to fear, Mr. Barber, the local station is not useable at the moment, so we have to go to a station outside of the City Center,” the Officer replied. The car took a country road that went through the forests and after a while, a big facility came into view. The man looked at it with awe. “We are here,” the officer said and they stepped out. The facility looked like any other ADVENT facility, yet it somehow had an intimidating aura for the human as heartbeat increased and he was slightly trembling. He felt like he was going in an old mansion. For some reason, Barber couldn’t help but feel a chill down the back of his neck. As they entered the facility, Lukas swallowed hard, and, for some reason, felt like it would be his last chance to do so. The rest of the day went quiet, Dinky helped out in the house as good as she could. She could tell how Lena was affected by the absence of her husband. For a long while her head was lowered and had a slight sad expression on her face. Dinky knew she had to cheer her up somehow. In the evening, the woman made vegetable flan for dinner. The filly enjoyed it, yet noticed that Lena ate very slowly with her head still lowered. “Why?” she asked, “Why did they take him? He didn’t do anything…” It made Dinky sad to see how depressed her host was, so she decided to cheer her up and tried to think of the right words. “Maybe it was just a misunderstanding, like, false information! It wasn’t your fault, you aren’t’ to blame.” She said in a calm and cheerful voice. The woman gave her a weak smile. “I guess you are right.” Then they both went to bed. Despite being worried, both of them slept pretty well that night. In the next morning, they had breakfast as a broadcast came in. It showed the speaker again, two ADVENT officers next to him, their hands behind their back. “Fellow citizens. For 20 years the ADVENT Coalition has worked tirelessly to repair the ravages and justices of the old world. Under our stewardship, our cities prosper, our people flourish and our world heals.” The live broadcast showed marching troops being watched by civilians, followed by a Trooper that offered a hand to a citizen. “And yet, among us, there are still those who refuse to acknowledge the truth! Who are determined to see that all that we have achieved crumble!” he exclaimed and ADVENT troop transports that traveled around the globe got shown. “That must end. Even as I speak to you today, ADVENT peacekeepers are advancing into the outlying territories to end this scourge once and for all. We will ensure your continued safety and well-being throughout this crisis. With your cooperation we will overcome these radical elements and usher in another 20 years of peace and prosperity.” With that it ended. Then the doorbell rang again, followed by a knock, Dinky went out of sight as Lena answered it. It was an ADVENT officer again, escorted by a trooper. “Yes?” she asked. “Sorry to bother, Ma’am, but we have reports about suspicious activity.” Lena knew this was bad but tried to remain calm. Had they monitored them, or had someone seen Dinky and reported it? She didn’t know. “That must be a misunderstanding, but would you like to come in?” She asked, slightly nervous. “Thank you, but we have to search your house, standard procedure,” the officer replied as he and the other trooper entered the house, the latter looked around and made the woman hope that Dinky had selected a good hiding place. The filly was hidden under the bed and hoped the soldier wouldn’t find her as he entered the room. As he looked around, she was breathing rapid, slightly shaking as he stood in front of the bed. She held her breath. The soldier kneeled and spotted her, pulling her out before she could react, Dinky screamed and struggled as she was brought to the officer. The woman now started to shake nervously. “Please, I just gave her shelter! She means no harm, she’s just a child!” “Of course, the Elders know to appreciate your concern and caring. We are just here to help,” The officer replied calmly. “Lena, please!” Dinky pleaded, she cried heavily tears as she was brought out and still struggled until the soldier knocked out with a whip of his sidearm. But seeing Dinky getting hurt enraged the woman. With a growl she charged at the officer, who swiftly blocked her attack and hit her in the solar plexus which knocking the air out of her and made her collapse in pain. “I apologize, but it’s for your own safety,” He said with no emotion and left. Lena cried over her failure to protect Dinky. She rolled onto her side and let out an ear-piercing scream. “Ugh…” Dinky groaned as she woke up with an aching head and wanted to move but she realized she couldn’t. She looked around her surroundings and she found herself restrained She felt a device on her horn made her unable to use her magic. She appeared to be in a prisoner van or something, as she could hear the sound of an engine from it and felt the rumbling as it moved. “Stay calm, panic won’t get you anywhere,” the filly spoke to herself. Suddenly, the van stopped abruptly and shots were heard outside. Apart from the deep firing sounds of ADVENT troops, she heard a faint 'rata-ta-tat'. Her ears perked up as the door opened and she tried to cover her eyes from the light. She slowly uncovering them, she looked at a woman in armor climb into the van. The woman’s armor’s color were mixed stony tones in a leopard skin pattern, armed with a rifle and a sword on her back. Her face was very similar to Lena, broad face and the chin wide, save for black hair for it was tied into a knot behind her head. Her green eyes were trained on Dinky. The armor was hiding her build well. Before Dinky could process what was happening, the woman removed her restraints and offered a hand with a slight smile. “Come with us if you want to live.” The voice was in English with a French accent and sounded friendly. The filly realized quickly that this woman wanted to help her and grabbed the hand to be led out of the van. “The VIP is secure and we’re on the move,” the woman spoke into a radio. “Menace 5-1, status confirmed, VIP is now in tow. Proceed to the extraction point,” a male voice replied. “Stay close,” the woman said in a calming tone, the filly nodded, as he looked quickly around, the can was in the middle of the city, a few dead soldiers and an officer were lying in their own blood on the street. “Nice work with the door, Abstraction.” A man in dark gray chest armor came into sight from behind a wall, the rest of his armor was navy blue and held a rifle that was light gray. His hair was dark brown, his eyes green, and the face was rounded. He looked tall but thin. She almost overlooked a small drone flying next to him, A bizarre contraption and almost like a floating crab made up of computer parts with a pair of lighted panels on either side like police lights on a police car. Its body was colored mint-green and the wings Cyan white; it had the same colors as Tootsie’s music teacher Lyra. “Behind you! he yelled at the woman and a loud shot made Dinky flinch. The sound of a body hitting the ground greeted her ears. She looked where the sound came from and saw a dead ADVENT trooper behind the woman; it laid in a puddle of strange orange blood. She looked up and saw what appeared to be a woman with a sniper rifle on a balcony but was too far away to make out any details. “I got you covered!” the sniper yelled over the radio. “Let’s move,” the French woman said and Dinky followed her with the man known as “Abstraction” down the street. She saw blood splattered on the windshield of the van; that meant the sniper had shot the driver. Out of her eye, the filly saw another ADVENT trooper run around the corner and charged at the woman. In response, she drew her sword and rammed it into the soldier’s chest; blood splattered from it as he collapsed. Dinky looked ahead where they were headed and saw a blue flare at the end of the street before the male voice on the radio sounded again. “Menace 5-1, be advised, hostile interceptors are inbound on your current position. Firebrand has a limited window to provide extraction.” “Enemy reinforcements!” The sniper warned as a red flare lit up near the extraction point and an ADVENT airborne transport arrived. Another officer with three soldiers jumped out before it left. The red-colored soldier pointed towards the filly and woman and yelled something that sounded like “Call her Patsy!” and his soldiers, in response, opened fire. The French pushed her behind a wall for cover as the red colored bullets missed them both by inches, causing the child to cower in fear. “Under heavy fire!” Abstraction yelled as he was pinned down behind cover too. Suddenly, a quick 'rata-ta-tat' echoed in Dinky’s ears, followed by a voice saying, “Run, cowards!” She peeked around the corner and saw that the officer had fallen. In addition to his red-colored armor, his face was covered by a gas mask. Behind the corpse was the two soldiers and held what looked like a portable gatling gun. The ADVENT soldiers dived to cover but the man yelled, “Cry some more!” and drew what looked like a grenade launcher from his back. He fired and the explosion resulted in both hostiles being blown a few meters back while covered in splinters and blood. The dead squad allowed the others to proceed. Once at the extraction zone, the unicorn saw what looked like a troop transport, the engines swiveled on either side of the fuselage above them. The ropes were lowered in front of them. The woman gently took Dinky on the arm and grabbed the rope with her free hand. The rope reeled them both on board with the others as they grabbed the other ropes. “This is Firebrand, VIP is secure,” the pilot of the aircraft reported. “Status confirmed, mission accomplished.” The male radio voice replied. Dinky looked at the humans in the squad as she sat down on the seats with them. The sniper of the squad caught her eyes because she saw that she was smiling, apparently happy that the mission was a success. Now that she was next to her and not on a building, Dinky could see the woman had green eyes and blond hair, that was also tied into a knot. She wore a cap that matched the grey color of her armor, which had the same muster as the French woman. Her face was rounded. Thank you for saving me,” Dinky said as she looked at the four adults. The French woman petted her with a smile. “It’s nothing, sweetheart. Catch some rest, it will take some time.” Dinky nodded and closed her eyes, dozing off in the woman’s lap. She didn’t want to ask where they were headed. She was too tired and exhausted from the firefight. “Can you believe it, Jade? Dinky Hooves from My little pony: Friendship is magic, right before our eyes?” Abstraction asked her. “At first, no. I really wonder how the Council found out about her, but I’m glad we could save her from ADVENT,” she replied. “Da, I’m glad too.” The Russian added. “What about you, Bianca?” “Me too, Sasha. A young child like her hasn’t deserved this.” The sniper replied with an Italian accent. After a while, they arrived and Jane gently shook Dinky’s shoulder. “We are here.” “Okay…”the filly said, still a bit sleepy as they stepped out. She noticed the aircraft had landed on a big platform up in the sky because, as they stepped out, a wonderful view greeted them. It made Dinky realize that the “platform” was a larger aircraft itself as an elevator brought them and the small transport into a hanger. “Well done, soldiers, you did an excellent job.” The filly’s ears perked up as she heard a male voice, the same as on the radio and saw the four operatives saluting an elderly man. His eyes were green, his hair brown but slightly graying appearing to be in his mid-fifties. “Central.” Jade replied as he looked a bit confused at Dinky. “At first I thought the Spokesman had lost his mind but I guess it was good he gave us this mission,” he mumbled and kneeled down to Dinky’s height. “I’m Central Officer Bradford.” “Nice to meet you, Mr. Bradford, I’m Dinky Hooves.” She greeted him with a slight smile. “I appreciate that you are polite, but Bradford or John is just fine,” he replied and turned to Abstraction. “Lieutenant Schaeffer, bring her to Dr. Tygan for a medical checkup, I discuss with the commander what we shall do with her.” “Yes, sir. Follow me. ”Abstraction said to Dinky. “We meet you at the bar!” Jade called out as the man and child walked towards an elevator. The man pushed a button and the elevator moved down. As the door opened, Dinky’s eyes went wide as she saw a big lab with machines of all kind. Aside from the machinery, the filly spotted a dark-skinned man in a white lab coat and had his back to her. He was inspecting what looked like a generator. He seemed to have large scar on the bald back of his head. “Dr. Tygan?” the Lieutenant called out and the scientist turned around. He had brown eyes and wore glasses. “Oh, sorry, I didn’t notice you. You are the foal I was told of, right?” He asked, sounding very fascinating. “Uh, yes, my name is Dinky Hooves.” She replied, slightly nervous. “I’m Dr. Richard Tygan, Chief Scientific Officer. Please, hop over here,” he said as he pointed to a large white table and the foal climbed on it. A scanner started to beep and whistle which made Dinky more nervous as it got to work. It moved up and down, then stood still. I guess this was how Pip felt when he met the humans, she thought as she remembered how Pip met the humans through a similar accident as she had. Shortly after they first met, she got examined in a similar way. Tygan smiled after a few seconds. “Apart from a slight bruise on the head, you’re fine. If you’re okay with it, I need a small blood sample.” Dinky’s expression become one of fear. “It will only hurt for a moment.” He added as he grabbed what looked like, a futuristic syringe. “Genetic research is very advanced today thanks to ADVENT. It would allow me to understand your biology better if you get hurt,” he explained as the operative gently took her left forehoof, whispering comforting words. The filly nodded, taking a deep breath and hissed for a moment as the needle entered her skin. “And done. You are very brave for your age.” The Scientist complimented her. He put her blood sample in a machine and the screen bursted to life with science mumbo jumbo. The scientist analyzed the results from her blood cells and was quite fascinated, his eyes went wide. While the blood was red, her cells were multi-colored. Like a perfect rainbow. “I never have seen anything like that.” Then he turned to the child. “Anyway, you should get going.” “Come, I show you around,” the operative said. He led Dinky to the other end of the hallway and came up to what looked like a room-sized factory. A woman worked on a workbench on something. She had brown hair and was dressed in an orange t-shirt with a green vest over it. “And there we go,” she said and an orange drone started to take off from the workbench. It flew around the room as she turned around. Dinky saw she had brown eyes and appeared to be in her late twenties. She smiled at the two. “Hello. You are the filly Central mentioned? I’m Lily Shen, Chief Engineer.” “Name’s Dinky Hooves,” the foal replied as the orange drone stopped in front of her and hovered up and down. It made a buzz sound that sounded like a greeting in robot language. “Glad to meet you too,” she added in a friendly tone, although, it felt strange to greet a flying drone. “That’s ROV-R, my personal GREMLIN. I think he likes you already.” Lily said with a smile. “It was a pleasure meeting you, Dinky.” Me too.” Abstraction led Dinky to a room that appeared to be an armory because it had several mounts for weapons. Abstraction got out his rifle and sidearm and put them both into one empty mount while his GREMLIN landed in a charging station. The filly started to blush as her stomach growled. “Sorry, haven’t eaten since breakfast.” “Then let me take you to the bar. it’s also the cafeteria.” As they arrived, Dinky saw how the “bar” looked like. She never seen anything like it before. A counter with a barkeeper and several tables, small TVs mounted on the wall, a glass cabinet with pictures of the old XCOM team, at least she assumed it was an old team. There was even a toy version of a jet fighter and an older version of the smaller transport in the glass cabinet. Everything was engulfed in an orange light. To her right was a big board that listed names, their last mission and a date. There were only two names on the board: Peter Osei and Ana Ramirez, both took part in operation Gatecrasher on the 1st of March. The board was lighted in blue. “Ah, glad you came.” Jane waved at them where she sat with the others. “What can I get you?” The barkeeper asked Dinky as the filly looked at the menu. “A salad with bread and noodles, please.” The Barkeeper nodded and did as told. The unicorn smiled a she enjoyed her meal, glad to have something in her stomach. “Looks very comfortable.” Dinky commented at the look of the bar. “Thank you. There’s nothing better than to relax after a mission here, having a cool drink or a warm meal.” Abstraction replied. “What brought you to XCOM?” The filly was curious. Jane took the word. “We come from many walks of life: bodyguards, prisoners, and resistance members are all part of XCOM's pool of hirees. Regardless of our background, we are united in our desire to take back our planet from the alien menace.” Jane took the word. “I used to be a teacher at a Martial Arts school, but ADVENT closed it down due being inappropriate…Hah!” She taunted. “They can’t tell me what to do. I took prides in my teachings, even with ADVENT, the people still need to defend themselves if no peacekeeper is around. After they tried to close it, I tried to justify myself, they wanted to arrest me for resisting and for helping a defenseless person against a robber earlier, stating I was hindering a peacekeeper on duty.” She had a slight hint of hate in her voice. “Me I and a good friend of mine used to work in a factory of household products,” Bianca added into the conversation, “One day, there was a delay in the production line because of a malfunction. My friend, being the production manager, said it would take some time to repair, but the supervising officer demanded it shall be done quickly. As my friend said they need time, the officer shot him. Killed just for a minor disagreement. Terrified, I fled, not wanting to meet the same fate.” Bianca’s voice had a slight shaken tone and expression. “Sorry to hear that,” Dinky replied and looked at Sasha. He was bald, his eyes blue, and his face and chin were broad. Sasha saw the filly look at him and got the hint that he was next to talk. “I have nothing much to tell. I was born in Russia before the invasion, taking pride in my nation, and I am very educated, having gone to college and receiving a PhD in Russian literature. I could have gone far. But then, ADVENT came and arrested me for faking my PhD, which I did not like. XCOM saved me and I repay them by serving them.” “I see. What is this ship we are on?” the filly asked. “It’s called the Avenger, a repurposed alien transport ship and our mobile HQ. The smaller transport is the Skyranger, a VTOL troop transport that deploys us for our missions. Jane is a Ranger. They are the primary reconnaissance units, specialized in operation in the shadows and up close with swords and shotguns. And since Jane is good in Martial Art, it suits her perfectly.” “You got that right.” Jane replied as he continued. “I’m a grenadier, being amongst the tough, heavily armed soldiers that excel at direct combat and wanton destruction with our Gatling guns and grenade launchers. Now, what makes me a good grenadier? If I were a bad grenadier, I wouldn't be sittin' here, discussin' it with you now would I?” he asked, causing the filly to chuckle. “Yes, you are a good grenadier.” The Italian woman then took the word. “As you saw, I’m a sniper or ‘Sharpshooter’. Just like it sounds, we engage enemy targets with pinpoint accuracy from extreme range. We're also trained in pistol marksmanship for the occasional close encounter.” “Uh-uh. And you, Abstraction?” Dinky asked. “Please, call me Kyle, Abstraction is just my nickname,” he replied with a smile. “I’m a specialist. That drone you saw, called GREMLIN, is our special weapon. We can take on a variety of tactical support roles, including field medic duty and remote hacking.” “Ok, Kyle. Nice nickname.” she replied with a smile. “Thank you. You surely want some rest from all of this. Come, I’ll take you to the living quarters.” “Lead the way. Bye everyone!” She waved at the others as she walked out. She wondered how the living quarters would look like. It was only a short walk from the bar and the filly found what she saw to be quite comfortable. The living quarters had several double beds, two couches, a table in the middle with some chairs and a dart board on the wall. “Looks very nice.” Dinky said to Kyle. “Glad to hear it,” he said as he sat down on one bed and reached for a guitar and started to tune it. “Do you play music?” Kyle smiled. “Yeah, it helps to relax and I draw from time to time. Sometimes, I play music to get over losses or to boost morale in general.” The filly remembered the blue board, realizing what it meant. “You mean the blue board in the bar?” Kyle sighed. “Yes. It’s a memorial for those who died in action, so we can pay our respects. Operation Gatecrasher was the rescue of the commander. With him, we are finally able to do some decent damage to ADVENT.” “Oh, I’m sorry.” she lowered her head. “But, why is your GREMLIN colored like Lyra?” This question caused the Specialist to look puzzled at her, thinking for a moment. “Well…back in 2010, there was a kid show called My little Pony: Friendship is Magic. It showed the adventures of Twilight Sparkle and her friends. You and Lyra are background figures and she turned out to be my favorite pony, so I colored my GREMLIN after her, I even nicknamed it Lyra,” he told, slightly blushing. “Makes sense,” Dinky replied, completely calm. “You’re… not confused by this?” he asked in surprise raising an eyebrow. “Well, my uncle Fletcher Fray landed on Earth before, finding out about the show and told me about it.” Then the unicorn told him about her uncle and how he became what he is and who he was, the man listed with interest, being fascinated. The lieutenant processed everything she told him. “Sounds like you have been through a lot. I’m also sorry to hear what happened but I promise we will keep you safe from ADVENT.” The filly smiled. “I appreciate it. Why did you join XCOM?” The human sighed again. “...Are you sure you really wanna know? Because this is pretty heavy stuff for a filly your age.” “That doesn't matter! Please, tell me!” Dinky said, extremely curious. Kyle stayed silent for a moment. “...Alright. Years ago when I was nine, my biological father died in a plane crash. While it was depressing, my mother started dating and found a man again. His name was Ed Richardson. At the beginning, it looked wonderful but…” He paused to calm himself down as his voice got shaky. “It was only after she got engaged and filed the child custody papers with the court that Ed revealed his true nature. He became irate for even the smallest things... he even started beating her. I was only eleven at the time, but I can still remember jolting whenever he got the urge to randomly backhand her. After about a year, she had enough, and then she decided, in secret, that she was going to leave.” Dinky gasped. “She left you behind?” “Not on purpose. In fact, she was desperate to take me with her. But for whatever reason, she couldn't get the court to give her legal custody of me. They didn't have enough evidence to prove that Ed was ineligible to assume custody. It was a losing battle, and with Ed putting most of her money into his own account instead of a joint account, she couldn't get a good lawyer with her free representation. Ed, on the other hand, was spending most of her money to hire some pretty high-end attorney to convince the court to rule in his favor... I guess he wanted to keep me around to do all his heavy lifting for him. Then, on the day before she disappeared, I saw her sitting on the porch. She was crying. She was repeatedly saying to herself 'I don't want to, but I have to'... He sniffed. ““...and then, on the following morning, really early before Ed woke up, my mom came to my bedroom and woke me. She told me that she had to go somewhere. I asked her where, but she said it was better if I didn't know. She had tears in her eyes as she was saying all of this to me. I didn't understand what was going on. All she told me was 'Be brave, Kyle. And just know that, even if I'm not here, I will love you to the end of the world'. Then, she gave me a long hug and kissed me on the cheek and left. I think I might have fallen asleep, because I woke up a few hours later, and rushed out of my room to look for her... but she was gone.” Dinky’s expression was one of sympathy. “I'm so sorry.” She gave him a hug. Kyle smiled weakly. “It’s okay,” he said and pulled out a picture, it showed a woman with the same light skin and dark-brown hair that he had. The filly looked at it in awe. “She looks very pretty. Just like you.” “Yeah.” He pointed to a watch he was wearing on his right wrist. It was a silver, analog wristwatch with a rectangular bezel. “My mother gave it to me as a final gift before she left. I haven’t seen her since the invasion.” You were there?…” The filly looked at him in shock. “Yes, I saw everything with my own eyes…” It was a normal day like any other, March 2015. Kyle had just returned from another long, exhausting day at work. He was sore from standing for eight hours with only short breaks, and looked forward to climb into bed, and to sandwich himself in between the sheets. It was always the time he looked forward to the most out of his work day. It was a little after eleven o'clock, Kyle had been scheduled the closing shift, which only further made him tired and ready to collapse under his own weight. But his fate had other plans. “Get up, boy!” Ed shouted. “Dinner won’t make itself!” The young man let out a quiet groan and used the little energy he had left to get into the kitchen, to make some pork chops. While he enjoyed his meal, he felt out of place, as Ed and his son Danny were ungrateful. They didn’t appreciate his work and left him to clean up while the elderly man watched TV and his son played video games. Suddenly a loud explosion shock the house, strong enough to throw everyone over. “What was that?” Kyle wondered confused as he got up and noticed that almost all the windows were broken. “Hey, Dad, look!” Danny looked out of the window, his father and Kyle joined him. Outside on the street was a crater, inside a big, black pod. “Looks like some kind of alien thing. Let’s take a look.” Ed suggested, sounding rather curious. “Stay inside, we don’t know what it is.” Kyle said as he advised against it. He knew that something wasn’t right. “Did we ASK for your opinion?” Ed asked with an angry expression and caused Kyle to hold up his arm in defense. “I’m just careful.” “Whatever, coward,” the elderly man replied and joined the group of citizens already outside to inspect the pod, Kyle watched with worry. What happened next, burned itself into his mind. Jade-green gas hissed out of the pod and caused everyone to flee in panic, Ed and Danny included. They tripped and got sucked towards it, screaming as they vanished into the fog. “Mother of god…” the young man muttered in shock, not able to believe what he had just seen. As the fog vanished, his eyes went wide as he saw Ed, Danny and many others down on the ground, encased in a verdigris green gel. The young man, breathed heavily, stared what was in front of him and tried to process what had just happened. Then, he saw something he had never seen before. A group of small, thin humanoid creatures, with open chests that glowed a sickly green, moved in together with a group of men in blue suits. The former had no visible mouth and big black eyes and were armed with pistols that glowed green. The latter had black hair and sunglasses and carried glowing rifles that glowed green as well. Kyle decided to stay hidden. He watched as the men used older-pattered syringes on the trapped humans before they abducted them. The young man did nothing, he knew they would gun him down the moment he would be within their sights. “They may be have not been very nice to me, but even they haven’t deserved something like this.” Kyle finished with a shaken voice. “Oh my…” Dinky mumbled in shock. “Did…did your mother…” He patted her head. “I don’t know. Twenty years have passed and I haven’t found her. I can only hope she’s still alive. If she was killed or died of old age, I comfort myself that she’s in a better place, but I haven’t lost hope yet.” Kyle weakly smiled. “Me and Sasha are the only ones in the squad to have seen the invasion. Jane and Bianca were too young to remember.” “That a good attitude, Kyle,” the filly responded to brighten his mood a bit “Now, why did you join XCOM afterwards?” “Well, despite what I had seen, I kinda believed on their lie of peace, trying to find my mother, while having nightmares of the invasion at times.” He took a deep breath. “But after some time, I noticed people went missing and knew something wasn’t right. As ADVENT wanted to go into a Gene clinic, I took my chance.” His expression became determined. “Mark my words: one day things will change. We will reveal the lies of ADVENT. Taking back our planet.” “I’m sure you will,” the filly replied. “The supply raid was a full success, ADVENT didn’t know what hit them!” a muted voice with a German accent sounded on the hallway. “Yeah, the Combat protocol of Gyro makes a very effective combination with your accuracy,” a British voice replied. “Hey, our teamwork guarantees success.” “Righto.” The German voice reminded Dinky of Fletcher’s relative Wagensroll. After Fletcher became her uncle, the earth pony also became a part of the family. He often visited them, he would chat with her father about old technologies and played with her, which she enjoyed. The British voice sounded similar to Purple Patch. As far as Dinky knew, he was an old friend of Nancy but kept his distance due to her husband’s violence. After he left her, Patch and Nancy spent time together again, and Patch took care of Pip when Nancy was busy. He told her once that he sometimes saw Patch as step-father. A faint ringing tone tore her out of her thoughts. The sound came from Kyle’s radio. “Yes, central?” he asked. “Acknowledged, I’m on my way.” he replied and looked at her. “We shall go to the bridge, they have decided where it will be safer for you.” “Okay.” The bridge looked very fascinating as they arrived. She saw several terminals and a big screen on the wall. But the most interesting contraption was in the middle, a big holographic globe. “That’s the Geoscape, it allows our commander and Central to plan operations around the world.” Kyle explained as they saw Bradford talking on a headset. “Commander, I have new information about this faction, called the Eternal Knights. They consist of three ponies. Their leader is called Midnight Blade. He's an undying swordsteed with an affinity with shadow magic. As far as we can tell, he may be some sort of quasi-vampire. One thing's for sure though, he's damn good at his job” The screen activated and showed the grey pony. “His propensity with the broadsword may seem like a no-sell but that blade cuts through the hardest ADVENT armor so quick, they may as well be wearing suits made of cream-cheese. His short-range teleportation consumes very little focus, making it easy for him to outmaneuver any enemy. Equipped with long-range boomerangs and bombs, he can open up the weaknesses of the foe and then move in for the kill. His real talent lies with blood magic which can heal any wound, even those that would normally be fatal to ordinary soldiers. In a scrap, he can even drain the life out of a defeated enemy. If, by some miracle, ADVENT get the drop on him, his Blood-Moon rage will make them wish they hadn't.” As he told this, the screen showed how Midnight killed ADVENT soldiers with his blade, the way he teleported in a cloud of red mist, grenades thrown at enemy groups, and drained a fallen over officer. His hooves glowed faintly red as he did so and roared as his rage was shown. “Second is their melee specialist, called White Wolf.” The screen switched from the bat pony to the Pegasus. “Raised in a perilous environment and made strong through lethal training and questing, she'll be more than a match for anything the enemy can throw at us. Her natural flying abilities give her extended movement reach across even the harshest battlefields. Flying over short distances, her affinity with storm clouds makes her invisible to all but the keenest predator. She can land with a force of lightning, stunning any nearby enemies around her, even in the middle of a tight formation. In pitched combat, her knives are deadly weapons and can land multiple strikes on one enemy or individual strikes on several enemies in mid-range vicinity. Her deer magic allows her to call upon nature's wrath with vines that lock enemies to the ground and wild wolf packs that'll rip and tear at an enemy's defensive line, acting similar to their Lost.” To his words, it was shown how Wolf flew around, sliced enemies, using clouds as cover before she stunned them with lighting and slammed into the ground to summon vines that immobilized enemies, followed by a growl to command a wolf pack to have the soldiers meet with them “And their Sniper is called Fletcher Fray.” The green unicorn was shown. “Something of a knight in shining armor, Fletcher's skill lies in an enchanted bow. As a sharpshooter, I say with certainty that he has few if any equals. Placed atop a vantage point, his reach is staggering and if any enemy is in his sight, he may fire upon them, no matter how safe they may think themselves. Using focus wisely, Fletcher may fire tracking projectiles that seek out and hit foes behind or over cover. He may also loose bolts strong enough to pierce armor for maximum damage. His focus can also be used to teleport himself around the battlefield. Vantage and stealth can aid him greatly but if he is surrounded, his bow will morph into a spear and, by god, it’s fast. With the right means, he can also serve as an engineer, programming or upgrading vehicles and even bringing his own to the party.” The screen showed how he fired his bow. The arrows he shot homed in and broke through cover. It showed him teleporting around and fought at close range with his spear. The last recording showed a drone on tracks, armed with a minigun next to him. “We need to find them and get them on our side. Their enhanced stealth and heavy attacks mean they can provide support from the shadows on one turn and a full-assault on the next. Good luck, commander.” Seeing this relieved Dinky. She now knew that they were alright. “Ah, there you are.” The elderly man turned to her and Kyle. “For your own safety the commander and I have decided to get you to a settlement, which is a safe haven for civilians.” “Okay. When?” “Right now actually, as the Skyranger just returned from a mission.” He turned to Kyle. “Lieutenant, escort her.” The Specialist saluted. “Yes, sir.” On the way to the hanger, Dinky asked Kyle, “Who’s the commander?” The middle-aged men shrugged. “Honestly, I don’t know. He directs us via radio during missions, but I have never seen him directly. He’s mostly in his quarters as far as I know.” Once onboard, the filly leaned back as she enjoyed the ride and caused the Brony to smile. As the aircraft arrived, the foal looked at the settlement in awe and fascination. The settlement consisted of several old buildings, outfitted with metal plates for protection or as a roof, it’s hard to tell. There were also small fuel depots and a few parked vehicles around it, in a rural environment. Overall, it looked quite nice and kinda reminded her of Ponyville. “There you are,” a male voice sounded in her ears. She saw a man with a hat and green eyes walking towards them, escorted by two armed guards who eyed her suspiciously. “I’m Denfather, the leader of this small town, and you must be the foal I was informed of,” he said with a smile. “That’s correct, I am Dinky Hooves.” She shook his hand. “Well then, welcome to our safe haven. I’ll show you around.” “Okay. Bye, Kyle” She waved at him as he returned it and went back into the Skyranger before it took off. The unicorn noticed how most of the residents looked either confused or with distrust, which made her slightly nervous. Dinky felt calm that all the children she saw here had only confused looks. One of them, a young boy, apparently the same age as Pip, with chocolate brown short hair and matching wide eyes walked up to her. “H-he-hello. My name is Edward Brown.” His hand was shaking as he stretched it out for a shake. “I’m Dinky. Dinky Hooves.” She shook it with a smile and noticed he had a British accent. Where is this settlement located?” She wanted to know as Denfather sounded German, and wondered if she was in the same area she was at before. “Oh, it’s Germany, near the border to France.” Edward replied. “I see. If you don’t mind me asking, why do you live here?” The boy’s expression became slightly sad. “Mommy never told me much. I only know she and father used to live in a town in England. She never told me the name of it though. It was attacked by the aliens and was almost wiped out. My parents, along a few others, were the only survivors and had been relocated to Germany. My father was taken by ADVENT before I was born, so mother fled here, to avoid the chance that she could lose me.” “I’m sorry to hear that.” The unicorn gave him a hug. He returned it. “It’s okay. Would you like to meet my mother?” Dinky grinned. “I’d love to.” She was led by him to a small house, and saw an elderly woman with wavy blonde hair, doing laundry, her back to the children as her son called out, “Mommy!” “Yes?” His mother turned around, startling as she saw the unicorn. Dinky saw that she appeared in her late thirties to early forties, her eyes were blue and sunken, showing that her age had taken its toll. “Er...Eddy...Wh-what's this?” She asked with a confused expression “This is Dinky, mom.” Her son replied with a big smile. “Rrrrrright...” His mother said in a disbelieving tone. “But where did she come from?” “She's with XCOM.” “I see...Might as well not question it. I mean, don't mistake me, they're good people, we owe them all our lives. But I can't begin to imagine what they get up to in their labs.” The woman looked rather distrustful and it made Dinky slightly nervous. “You are the foal everyone was talking about?” Her voice sounded not friendly but not hateful either, her expression was neutral. “Uh, yes, I am.” “Please, mommy, she isn’t one of them. Can I play with her?” Edward asked, giving his mother puppet eyes. She sighed. “Fine.” The young child smiled as he took the unicorn’s hoof and led her to the other children. “Does your mother not like me? she asked in confusion. Edward looked down. “I’m sorry, after daddy got arrested, she’s not very fond of strangers.” He looked up again. “How did you end up here?” The grey pony took a deep breath. “It’s kind of a long story.” As Dinky told the children where she came from and how she landed on Earth, they all looked very fascinated at her. “Sounds…like you have been through a lot Dinky…” Edward said in awe, his eyes wide. “But I’ll make sure you are comfortable until your friends arrive.” “Thank you, I appreciate that. Now, what kind of game had you in mind?” The boy grinned. “Tag! You’re it!” He said and ran away, the other children did too. The filly giggled and chased him, unaware that his mother watched them with a weak smile. The foal had so much fun for the day. She got introduced to the rest of the children, but could only remember Edward’s name. Nevertheless, Dinky had fun, and enjoyed every second with Edward before it became evening. She ate salad and baked potatoes with Edward and his mother and smiled as she enjoyed it. “That was very delicious. Now, where can I sleep?” “We have a guest room,” Edward replied as Dinky yawned. “Okay. If you don’t mind, Ms. Brown.” “It’s fine,” the woman replied and tucked her son in.” Goodnight.” “Night, Mommy.” Edward smiled before he fell asleep. As Dinky was about to climb into the guest bed, she heard the woman’s voice, “Let me help.” Edward’s mother lifted her gently up and tucked her in. “Thank you, I appreciate your hospitality, Ms.…” “Rosie. Just call me Rosie.” The elderly woman smiled slightly. “It’s nothing personal, I just…” Rosie sighed. “After I lost my husband, I don’t want to lose my son too, and today, you can never be sure who’s a spy for ADVENT.” “I understand. But I think you are a good mother, Rosie.” Dinky complimented her. “It pleases me to hear that from you. Your parents did raise you well too. Goodnight, sweet dreams,” the mother said with a smile and left. Dinky fell asleep with a sign. She hoped that the Eternal Knights were doing fine. Author's Note Safe at least. For now. Chapter 4: On The TrailChapter 4: On The Trail The 3 Eternal Knights woke up with a headache, groaning in pain. “What just happened?” Fletcher asked as he found himself with the others on a meadow. “I don’t know. Everypony okay?” Midnight asked as he got up. Wolf vomited. “Never use portals right after a meal. I'm sure there's a rule for that.” She got up. “Where are we?” The green stallion looked around, seeing what appeared to be a city with many skyscrapers, protruding meters into the sky. “In any case not in Equestria, I can tell that already.” The bat pony thought for a moment. “Hard to tell at this distance. Who's betting we're on Earth again?” “That is very likely,” Fray concluded. “At least we have it better than last time,” Wolf commented before noticing something. “Where’s Dinky?” Not seeing the filly anywhere, the unicorn casted a tracking spell to locate her, slightly smiled as he pinpointed her current location. “Bad news: She isn’t with us. Good news: She isn’t far from our current position.” Midnight grabbed his blade. “Then let’s go!” Then he noticed that the blue mare was slightly wavering, holding her gut. “You’re okay?” He asked concerned. White Wolf held up a hoof. “It's all right now.” He nodded in return and they moved out, avoiding the city, taking the route through the nearby woods. They all wondered if they had really landed on Earth and if yes, when on Earth. Still, they hoped the young filly was alright. After a while, Wolf saw something in the distance. “Hey, I see smoke!” “I can see it too. Proceed with caution.” The grey stallion warned. The trail led outside of the woods and a horrible sight greeted them. “Oh my…” Midnight mumbled in slight shock. The smoke came from a destroyed settlement, made out of old buildings, outfitted with metal plates for protection or as a roof it’s residents slaughtered. Their bodies lying covered in blood everywhere. The bodies were male and female, mostly of Caucasian race, dressed in casual clothes. They were human civilians, hinting the Knights had indeed landed on Earth. “I guess it’s not a peaceful era. Poor guys, they never stood a chance.” He commented with an expression of disgust before Fletcher walked towards the bodies. “What are you doing?” “Checking for supplies, we need food and water.” He replied as he checked the bodies and settlement for anything of use. Surprisingly, the supplies of the settlement were completely intact, allowing the knights to make themselves some saddlebags for food and water. The bat pony and Pegasus took also notice how Fletcher inspected an Assault Rifle, together with a Revolver. “They will come in handy for sure.” He said and crafted a strap for the rifle and a holster for the revolver. “You remember what I did in Africa in case I can’t use magic it wanted to save it until I need it? I suggest you do the same.” “I'm good, thanks,” Wolf replied. Fletcher gave her a firm look. “Wolf...” “Come on, Fletch, you know how much I hate this clunky plastic curd! I don't see why humans love them so much.” The mare pointed out with disgust. “Look, Fletcher has a point, Wolf. I don't like it any more than you do but right here, right now, we have no idea what we might be up against and it'll help to be able to fight them with their own weapons. We can always just use our own if it's more effective.” Midnight countered. The mare pointed to the corpses in response. “They didn't do these poor bastards much good.” Fletcher nodded. “Yeah, well, let's hope we're better shots. Rule Number 28. Find and carry at least one native weapon in non-Equestrian territory until departure.” Yeah, yeah...” The Pegasus mumbled as she sulkily looked for a gun she liked the look of. While the grey stallion got himself an Assault Rifle too, Wolf got herself what looked like a Bullpup pump-action shotgun, perfect for her close range fighting style. “Well, I'll use it but I won't like it.” She commented with disdain as Fletcher also equipped a bolt-action Sniper rifle. The group continued their walk through the woods until it became slowly dark, showing that the night was coming. Normally, they all three could be awoke until late in the night before having to rest, but for some reason, they all started to show signs of fatigue, having a yawn, their eyes struggling to stay open. Also, their head ached quite a bit. “Ugh...damnit. This must be what Grandpa and Dawnwind feel like after farseeing.” Wolf held her head in pain. “I guess it comes from the aftereffects of the portal. Let’s rest.” The unicorn suggested and his friends agreed, making a campfire. Wolf held her hooves close to it to warm herself, admiring the looks of the stars. “It’s hard to believe we landed on Earth again. But It makes me wonder…remember Quince?” “Yes, why?” Fray asked. “How did he end up on Earth and how long had he been there? I mean his last sighting had been over 1000 years back in the civil war.” Midnight put a hoof to his chin. “It’s a good question but I think it’s better for us if we don’t know. But get some sleep you two, I keep watch.” “Okay, Midnight, goodnight.” The blue mare replied and made herself comfortable at the fire, drifting off to sleep with Fletcher. While being able to stay awake for a long time, it didn’t take long until the bat pony had to yawn, his eyes started to get heavy. “What's wrong with me? This bloody...headache...Hurts to...blink…” He mumbled and closed his eyes. The grey stallion woke up to a strange sound, opening his eyes. To his surprise he found himself with his friends on obduction tables, unable to move, His heart almost skipped a beat as a man in a white scientist coat walked in, staying in the dark unable to be recognized. The man grabbed a scalpel. Midnight looked at it in fear, his heart racing, but his body was numb, wanting to scream as he was cut open, the pain beyond any he had experienced so far. “This fearsome creature, known to their kind as the 'Record Keeper' appears to be a subsidiary of the common race of equine aliens we've been studying. It’s blood magic could be of great use for our troops in the field.” The man said before cutting Wolf open, her expression was empty, making Midnight wonder if she was dead or just as aware as he was. “This specimen, henceforth referred to as the Stormrunner, seems to have considerable healing magic and immunity to diseases. By studying these, we might be able to make our troops more resistant towards poison.” Then the human worked on Fray, his expression was also empty. “The Battle brother appears to be kept alive by crablike creatures in his blood, allowing rapid regeneration of wounds. Those could be used to make our troops more resistance towards any damage. Also, the creature is abnormally warm to the touch for a corpse, and I must say, it's quite disconcerting.” At this moment, all three ponies awoke with a gasp, their breathing rapid as they aimed their firearms in all directions, before calming down. “Phew…That was one hay of a nightmare…” Midnight mumbled as he wiped the cold sweat of his face. “What did you dream?” Fray asked in a shocked voice. “Getting…autopsied while being still alive…” The grey stallion shuddered. His friends glancing at one another uncertainly. They rarely had nightmares thanks to Luna. If they had, they were never that intense. Midnight took slowly deep breaths to calm down. “I had the same dream,” Fray replied with a terrified expression, shuddering too. They all looked at each other with an unsure expression, wondering if this was really coincidence if this could mean something. This was way too real… The mare thought with fear as she took a deep breath. “Me too.” Wolf added in the same voice. “I really don’t want to know what that means…” The bat pony sighed. “Anyway, let’s try to get some rest again…” Despite this, they all slept peaceful for the rest of the night. The next morning they moved on, reaching the end of the woods. “Finally…” Wolf commented before a loud sound echoed in her ear. “Gunfire.” They moved towards the source, coming to a small hill. They saw a small battle going on between armed civilians and human soldiers in black armor, led by a soldier in red armor. The civilians held bravely their ground, but one by one, they got slowly killed by the solders. Strangely, their rifles fired red colored bullets. “Watch out, Sectoid!” One of the civilians warned as a human like creature came into view, having no hair or clothes, but a device on the right arm. It looked towards the sky and a purple cloud formed above its head and then shot towards a civilian. He screamed in pain before starting to shoot his friends, then ran towards a group with a grenade, killing himself in the process. “No! Chryssalid!” Another yelled as a four-legged purple colored creature, having two claws and very sharp tow formed teeth, and glowing yellow eyes came into view. It leaped towards one civilian, hit him into the chest with its teeth, lifting him into the air, the human screamed in pain before becoming limp. “We must help them!” Fletcher exclaimed bit Midnight held a hoof up. “Fletch, no! We can't go in blades-a-blazing like this. This is their fight, not ours.” But they all looked disgusted as the creature dropped the body, implanting what looked like an egg into the human’s chest. After a few seconds, the dead human groaned and stood up, eyes glowing red, skin pale. It stumbled slowly towards the few survivors, shrugging off any bullets before starting to bleed from the mouth and vomited blood, collapsing. What happened next shocked even the Knights. The body twitched as if it was about to burst. And it did burst, a smaller of those creatures hatched from the body, having a visually lighter color. Together with the other creature and soldiers, it wiped out the surviving civilians in seconds, before leaving. “Oh…dear...” Fletcher mumbled in disgust and shock. “That’s sick.” “Yes, it is. Are you okay, Wolf?” Midnight asked as the mare looked at the body the small creature had hatched from with a terrified expression, trembling. “I’m…f-fine…” She replied with a slightly shaken voice. The two stallions looked at each other, they rarely saw the Pegasus so shaken or scared by something. “Take a deep breath, neither a…Sectoid nor a Chryssalid will stop us.” The grey stallion advised and she did as told, stopping to tremble. “Right.” She sounded calm, but a small hint of fear remained in her eyes as they checked the bodies. Fletcher looked at one corpse being covered in blood and black shrapnel. “I guess he tried to use one of the soldiers’ rifles and it blew up in his face. Quite an effective yet cruel way to prevent unauthorized users from using them.” He commented with disgust. “Yes. Any idea what this human-like creature did?” The blue Pony asked. “Some sort of mind control I think.” He suspected, “And even if it looked human, something tells me it isn’t. Has Dinky’s location changed?” Midnight asked Fray. The unicorn casted the tracking spell in response. “No. If we follow the road, we should be able to get to her without any delay.” “Then led the way.” Midnight replied and they moved out. The country road seemed abandoned as they encountered no resistance during their walk, taking regularly breaks, is it was a warm day. Eventually, the evening slowly showed presence and Midnight had to wipe sweat of his forehead, as it became quite humid. “Ugh…it’s so humid! Mind if we take a cool place to rest the night? We can’t keep up if it’s so hot.” “Agreed. What about this cave?” Wolf pointed to it to her left. “Sounds good to me.” Fletcher replied and they entered it, the cool air was a nice change for them, falling asleep fast. White Wolf couldn’t tell how long she had slept before a strange noise awoke her. Looking around, she couldn’t see her friends anymore. “Fletch? Midnight?” She called out but got no response. A terrible groan came from outside, making her flinch. “I better check this out.” Walking outside, the mare found herself in a dark forest, nothing but silence, the ground was squishy, which unsettled her. For some reason, she felt fear, despite her battle experience. She wasn’t afraid of the darkness but something told her she wasn’t alone, walking carefully through the woods. Without any kind of warning the ground in front of her crumbled, an insect like Alien jumped up, causing to fall on her back with a shriek. Crawling backwards out of instinct, the mare saw that, if she remembered correctly, a Chryssalid as the resistance called it, stood in front of her. She attempted to grab her knife out of her leather band… It wasn’t there. The Chryssalid leaped towards her, it’s claws grabbing her forelegs, effectively pinning her down. Screaming in panic, Wolf tried to break free but the Alien’s grip was strong. The Eternal Knight knew exactly what the Chryssalid intended to do with her. “No, no, no! Don’t you dare!” She yelled in panic, completely terrified. The four-legged Alien then looked down at her hind legs, It took only her a few seconds to see that the Chryssalid had in mind, instead of killing her. The creature was about to… “NO!” White Wolf screamed at the top of her lungs, waking up, gasping from a terrible nightmare, breathing heavily, cold sweat on her face. “Wolf, are you alright?” Midnight asked as he and Fray looked concerned at her. In a flash, she had wrapped her fore legs around the bat pony, who in return patted her back. “Calm down, it was just a dream.” He and the unicorn could tell she had been a terrible nightmare. “I…I dreamed one of those Chrysalids tried to…” She tried to say with a shaken voice but couldn’t finish. Fletcher gave her a smile. “Don’t worry, Wolf, we keep you safe from those things. They won’t harm you.” Or else Dawnwind rips my and Midnight’s head off. “Plus, you can fly, remember?” Midnight pointed out. “Yeah…Maybe I just…” The mare took a deep breath and smiled weakly. “It was just a dream after all.” With that, they went to sleep again. In the morning, Fray checked Dinky’s location again and was a bit surprised. “It appears her location has changed.” “So she’s further away from our position?” The grey stallion asked. “On the contrary, she’s closer to us.” Fray replied with a slight smile. “Well, that’s convenient.” Wolf commented. As they moved out, the bat pony said, “Fletcher, try not to die this time.” The unicorn chuckled in response. “You worry about yourself, old stallion.” Wolf rolled her eyes with a grin. Back then, Quince had almost killed Fletcher, but thanks to the quick action of Dinky and her 2 friends, he had survived. The Farman stallion had nearly died, having been afraid, but neither she nor Midnight blamed him, it was natural. And he took it quite serenely after everything was over. He and Midnight had been so long friends with her that she didn’t even want to think about what her life would be without them. Fletch, she really loved how jovial he was, always having a way to brighten up the mood, even in the worst situations. As such, she didn’t wanted him to die, nor Midnight. The way led them towards another of those improvised towns, still intact. “I guess those soldiers didn’t discover this town yet.” Midnight commented as they entered it. Strangely it looked like it was abandoned. “It’s too quiet.” Wolf said, suspicious. A wiring sound entered their ears and they looked into the direction it came from, looking at a pole. On it was a cuboid formed object with a lens on it, making the wiring sound. The Knights walked up to it, it followed their movements as they inspected it, realizing what it was supposed to be. “A surveillance camera?” Midnight asked. Suddenly green gas sprayed from it and they coughed violently, struggling to stand, Fray tried to cast a shield spell but collapsed, seeing faintly two silhouettes before everything became black. “Wake up!” A voice yelled and they slowly opened their eyes, finding themselves in a big cage in an isolated area of the settlement consisting of a fenced backyard. Two humans, both men, stood before them, armed with a pistol and Rifle. The rifle one was quite muscular, having a short beard with brown long hair and eyes, his face and chin broad. The other had also a short beard, but short black hair and green eyes, looking rather thin. His face was rounded, the chin narrow. They both appeared o be dressed in camouflage uniforms, hinting they were experienced, the muscular man appeared to have a scar on the neck. “Who are you?” The muscular man demanded, his voice was German. “Stay calm. Let me first make it absolutely clear that we are not with ADVENT.” The bat pony tried to explain. Lie! Every Alien is with ADVENT.” The thin man yelled in distrust, sounding also German. “No no no! We are not with ADVENT. We are not okay?” Fletcher quickly replied. “Now, you ain’t human but you could be a spy. Do they look like a spy to you, William?” The thin man asked with distrust his friend. “Nope.” “Hang on, hang on. Now we way be aliens, we just...” Fray tried to explain before the thing man asked, “Why should we believe you?” Wolf groaned in annoyance. “Buck this.” She and Midnight got up, the latter still had his blade, cutting right through the cage and stood with her before the too men. “Let me say this again. We. Ain’t. With. ADVENT. We got precious little time for this. We are looking for a lost friend and just want to pass through.” The muscular man grinned, showing no fear. “Impressive.” He turned to the other man. “Manfred, get them some soup.” The tall man said and the other residents slowly came out of hiding. The thin man made the Knights some tomato soup. “It’s my mother’s recipe, I hope it’s good.” Wolf took a sip and enjoyed the warm taste going down her throat. “It's good. Thank you.” She said as she watched how the people did their daily tasks and children played. Frank sat down opposite to them. “So, who are you and what are you doing here?” He sounded rather curious. “It’s kind of a long story” The grey bat pony said and explained their situation, the 2 men listened with interest. “Sounds very…fascinating. But it seems your young friend had bad luck.” William said. “Why?” Fray asked in confusion. “ADVENT. They are those soldiers you have seen. If they have found her, then it most likely they killed her. Or captured, tortured and interrogated before… being forced to join their ranks. I have heard this is the fate of captured rebels or people of interest…” The man had fear and disgust in his voice. The Knights looked at each other, not sure what to think about it. Still, there was something. “What Is ADVENT exactly?” Midnight asked. Frank took a deep breath. “It all started 20 years ago. Earth was attacked by Aliens. The militaries and a special unit called XCOM fought bravely, but eventually, they were overwhelmed and Earth surrendered. The aliens claimed to have come to in peace and that the governments responded wrong. It’s a lie.” His voice was shaky. “I was there when the invasion began. It was a warm spring day and suddenly, black pods crashed into the ground, released green gas that sucked everyone in that was too close to it. Then the aliens abducted people and attacked our cities, showing no mercy. And after it was over they said it was a misunderstanding…” He trembled slightly, his expression terrified. “I used to be a farmer back then, so I was able to make this all.” “Me, I am his best friend, having lived in a small village before it was wiped out, having been a mechanic.” Manfred said before William continued, “ADVENT was founded by the Aliens as a new global government. But there are still people who resist them. I lead of those settlements.” Again, the Knights looked at each other, they did not want to imagine how horrible it must have been. “I see, but we managed to locate her not far from here.” Fray replied. William thought for a moment. “If that’s the case, then she might be in the next settlement close by, led by a man called Denfather. But it’s on the other side of an abandoned city.” He warned. “What’s the problem with that?” Wolf asked, not able to understand. “Well, these fog pods made them very…infested. When the governments fell, millions starved, many fled to cities like this to scavenge for food. They did not heed the warnings. We call those…the Lost. I regularly send scouts to check if any of them might have left the city and to avoid they get here. Officially, this city no longer exists, but my scouts still report sights of ADVENT troops. I think they are called Purifier.” He warned with an uneasy voice. “In my experience, anyone who uses the word 'pure' in anything other than chemistry shouldn't be trusted.” Fletcher commented. “Careful is our middle name.” Midnight said in a calm voice. “Still, if you could need some extra firepower, I may have something for you.” Manfred walked over to a small garage and came back with what looked like a drone in tracks, having a minigun as weapon. “XCOM used those back in the invasion. They are called Super Heavy Infantry Vehicle, or S.H.I.V. I found this one pretty damaged while on patrol outside the settlement. “Nothing I can’t fix.” Fletcher said with pride in his voice. Most of the drone systems were burned. Probably from serve damage but Fray with his skills and magic managed to repair it in only a few minutes. Pushing the start button, the drone whirred to life, making beeping noises. “And it works again.” “Then good luck. And watch out, the Lost are sensitive to sound.” Manfred warned. “Duly noted.” Midnight replied before they moved out towards the city. The city came slowly into view and had an unsettling slight, greenish glow. “Fletch, can I ask you something?” Wolf looked at him. “Shoot.” “You told me once about your encounter with those Nepaeae things. The ones you found in the Hippomorphian Forges. Is…is there a male version?” Her voice sounded slightly afraid. Nepaeae had a similar means of reproduction as the Chryssalid. Fray thought for a moment. “Can’t remember exactly but I think yes, being harmless though.” “You were very lucky back then, Fletcher. I don't want to go through that.” Midnight commented as Fray had barely avoided dying to those things. “Yeah, but stay focused.” Strangely, the outskirts of it weren’t barricaded at all, allowing free entry. “Stay sharp.” Midnight warned as they entered. The city was dark, littered with abandoned cars, and victims of the fog pods, being lifeless statues, standing or lying on the ground in protective or scared poses next to the leftovers of the fog pods. Even after 20 years, they still maintained a greenish glow, covered in what looked like green roots, covering some of the victims too. “Poor people, I dread to imagine how horrible this must have been.” Fletcher commented with pity at the sight. “Yes.” Midnight replied before several bestial howls echoed through the empty streets, startling the ponies a bit. “I guess those ‘Lost’ already know we’re here. Let’s move.” Yet, they barely made a few meters before a horrible groan came from one of the buildings up ahead. A group of humans stumbled out. Yet their appearance was far from being alive. Their skin was grey and rotted, their clothes torn, the eyes glowing green. “And that must be the Lost.” The gray stallion said before the drone opened fire, mowing the former humans down with well-placed headshots. “Good to know.” He added before another horde came down the street. The Eternal Knights took aim and fired, Fletcher noticed that his friends rarely missed a shot, having good aim as he had despite not having used human firearms before. It wasn’t really surprising for him. Yet they quickly ran dry so they switched to their sidearm, firing at every Lost that stumbled towards them until the area was clear. They used this to reload, Fray flinched briefly at a cracking sound behind him. Turning around, he saw a dead Lost behind him, the gating gun of the drone was smoking. “That was close. We need to move, we can’t stay at one place for too long.” He realized and Wolf started to grin. “Run and gun.” The group ran down the street, followed by the S.H.I.V., not encountering any Lost until a hiss of a flamethrower entered their ears. They stopped at as few meters in front of them, a burning Lost stumbled out, making screening noises before it collapsed. Out of the flames came 2 ADVENT soldiers wearing distinctive orange armor and fully enclosed helmets, armed with flamethrowers, having gas tanks on their backs. They aimed at the Knights and fired, Fletcher out of instinct, created a magic shield wall but while focusing, he was also frozen in terror at the sight, due to his experience in the civil war with fire and Solomon. His friends used this to flank the soldiers, Wolf fired at the head of one soldier but the spread of her shotgun accidently also hit the tank, and it started to hiss. Fray’s eyes went small. “Get back or these guys are going to have a horse-meat barbecue!” He warned but was already on the way down and rolling around at the explosion, his vision was blurry, his ears ringing. He struggled to up as everything went clear again, seeing only smoke where his friends had been. “No…” he said in shock, “It can’t be…” Then coughing came from it and he saw both ponies stumbling out, covered in dust, having slight combustions. “Thanks for the warning, Fletch, next time we keep our distance from the Purifiers.” Wolf coughed smoke as the unicorn casted a healing spell on her. Midnight spotted a fallen over officer, lying against a car, still alive. He limped over and grabbed him at the head, his hooves glowing faintly red and the officer groaned in pain as the stallion used his blood magic to heal himself. After a few seconds, the officer became limp and Midnight let out a sigh of comfort. “Much better.” Again, several bestial howls echoed through the city. “Oh...damn it.…” Midnight mumbled in terror as another horde came down the street. But those Lost kinda sprinted in a crouching manner, being way faster than the last horde. The Ponies and drone opened fire, managing to mow then down before they came too close. Behind them was a large Lost, walking in a slow yet threatening manner, only flinching from the hits it took. “This thing’s tough!” Wolf commented with frustration. Fletcher aimed down the scope, firing at the head, with a loud crack, a part of it splattered from the body and it collapsed. “Not that tough.” Midnight then inspected the bodies of the ADVENT soldiers, finding what looked like laser sights carried by the Purifiers. “Those should come in handy.” He attached one to his rifle and gave one to Wolf. Fray found also one on the body of the officer. “Okay, move out.” The grey stallion took the lead. As they walked carefully through the streets, Fray said, “I can’t help but think if Solomon had to do the Purifier’s work, if he would like it or see it more of a waste of his talents.” “A bit of both I suspect.” Midnight replied as a gigantic Skyscraper was insight just down the street. “If we go up there, we might be able to find out where the next exit is.” “Good idea.” Wolf liked it as they moved forward, neither Lost or ADVENT in sight. As they approached it, they saw this side of the building was the underground car park, eying the surroundings for any dangers. “Clear.” Midnight said and they entered, only to startle as a loud groan, followed by a rumble. The group turned around, seeing the entrance had collapsed, the drone was crushed under it. “Guess we won’t get out that way.” Fray commented before they took the stairs up, he switched to his pistol to the close room, making their way to the 60th floor, slightly out of breath afterwards. “Let’s check the rooms.” Fray casted a spell, scanning the area. “Several ADVENT soldiers, on the left and right room.” “We’ll take the left, you the right.” Midnight ordered and the unicorn nodded. The bat pony took position at the door and kicked it open as Wolf nodded. She stormed it and fired her shotgun, catching the soldier completely by surprise before they could react. Fray did the same with the right door, shooting 2 troopers and one officer in the head with his pistol before they could react. Midnights ears twitched as he heard running, quickly turning around and fired a round as an ADVENT trooper rushed into the room, blood splattered from the helmet and the soldier landed head first on the ground. “Nice shot.” Wolf complimented her friend. “From the roof, we should be able to see more.” The stallion suggested and they both took a look while Fray stayed on the floor to check for more hostiles. “It looks like this building is near the outskirts.” The bat pony informed him via his sonar, allowing them to communicate without having to speak. “Then we are on the right track.” Fray replied before he heard a strange noise. “What was that?” He took a look, coming to a balcony, watching carefully around. “Guess it was nothing.” In the moment he was about to walk back in, the glass of the window shattered as another trooper rammed through it, causing the unicorn to cover himself from the sharp shards, hissing in pain as one grazed his horn, interrupting his magic. Before he knew it, the trooper threw him over the balcony and he screamed. “Fletch!” Wolf exclaimed and dived after him. It felt so natural to scream as his life flashed before him, the ground coming closer and closer, he knew it was impossible to survive a fall from this height. “Gotcha!” The Pegasus just barely managed to catch him seconds before he had hit the ground, landing with him on a roof of another building. “Fletch? Are you alright? Fletch? Everything’s gonna be fine.” White Wolf had worry in her voice as the unicorn was trembling heavily, not responding, just staring, also having wet himself. She and Midnight couldn’t blame him, they had probably too had they been in his situation. Slowly, the stallion brought his forelegs around her for a hug. “Th-tha-thank you...” He stuttered, still shocked. Wolf smiled warmly. “No need, as long as I live, I won’t let any of you die.” “Plus, you’re our only ticket home, Fletch.” Midnight added, relieved he was alright. Fletcher just nodded and they jumped and climbed from roof to roof to avoid any further hostiles until they finally got out of the city, seeing it was getting evening, the sun setting. “We are very close, no time to rest now.” Fray said with determination to get to Dinky as fast as he could. Unfortunately, a checkpoint was up ahead, along with several guards. “I’ll take care of this.” Wolf flew up to a nearby cloud and pushed it over the guards and punched the cloud. With a loud thunder, several flashes of lighting struck them, they twitched and fell to the ground. Then, howling sound entered their ears, noticing a wolf pack coming out of a nearby forest. “Well, that’s convenient.” The mare commented and walked up to the animals, they bowed immediately. A sound of an engine echoed in their ears and a light blinded them from the sky. It belonged to an airport transport, dropping off soldiers. “Butts!” One of the officers yelled, pointing at Wolf. “Now, let’s show them what we got!” Wolf yelled and drew her knives, slashing the ADVENT troops while her loyal pack distracted them or rip them to pieces. Midnight teleported around to strike ADVENT troops, using his grenades and boomerangs against groups of them. Fletcher drew his bow, firing at every ADVENT soldier he spotted, his arrows glowed green and blood splattered once they hit their target, knocking the soldiers back. Those who hid behind cover weren’t safe. When he fired an arrow, he went right through it, leaving a glowing green spot on the surface it had penetrated or flew up into the sky and homed on, blinking in a green color, securing the kill. Those who were in melee range or rushed him became victim of his spear as he teleported between targets until the checkpoint was secured. “Okay, now let’s-” Midnight was cut off by a groan as all killed soldiers started to rise, a purple glow above their heads. The stallion roared in rage and charged forward, slicing them all in seconds with his blood rage. He breathed heavily after he had taken them all out, about to walk back to his friends as he noticed a shadow, behind the security both. It looked human, being thin and its chest glowed sickly green, having big black eyes and a device on the right arm. It turned out to be a Sectoid, the purple glow coming from it, roaring at him, showing a visible mouth with teeth as it charged at him. “Alright baldy, fresh freak-sushi coming right up!” Midnight yelled as he lunged at the Alien, swinging his blade, cutting the Sectoid in half, yellow/orange blood splattered from it before it fell dead to the ground. “Since when do you like Neighpon food?” His friends asked in unison. “Three years on a pilgrimage in Ema, learning the ways of the Shinobi under Kuroni Hanzo. I didn't eat bucking bamboo now, did I?” He asked in return. “Right…Mind controlling the dead, that’s new.” Fletcher commented as they moved on. It was getting dark, but being so close, they didn’t have time to rest now. The filly had slept well as the morning came, yawned and she blinked he eyes open and stretched herself. “Good morning, Dinky.” Edward greeted as he walked in with a breakfast board, on it bread and a glass of juice. “That’s very kind of you.” The bread was soft and very fresh, Dinky enjoyed every bite of it, the juice was refreshing. She smiled. “Where is Rosie?” “Outside.” He led them to her as the woman breakfasted on a table, enjoying the warm weather. “Good morning, Rosie.” “Morning, Dinky. I hope you had a pleasant night sleep.” The mother smiled warmly at her. “Of course I did! And you?” “Like a stone.” The two children used the early morning to play together while Rosie watched them, drinking her tea. Eventually, the two children laid down on the grass, laughing. “You really remind me of a good friend of mine, Edward.” “I do?” The boy sounded curious. “Yeah. His name is Pipsqueak. A pinto colt from Trottingham but he goes to Ms. Cheerilee's in Ponyville. He's like me, came out really small, still is actually. Whenever I feel down, he cheers me up, being a good friend. Just like you.” The filly replied with a smile. “Glad to hear it. You’re a good friend too.” Dinky's ear twitched. There was an odd sound on the air. The filly turned her head towards the sound and her eyes went small in terror. Several ADVENT transports moved in, the doors open and troopers opened fire. “Get to cover! Move!” Denfather’s voice ringed in her ears and she wasted no time to run with Rosie, seeing out of the corner of her eye how the man got caught in an explosion. She, Edward and Rosie sprinted through the door of a hut. They piled in and Dinky shut the door. She turned around to see Edward and his mother hiding in the corner. “Mommy, I'm scared.” He hugged his legs close to his chest, tears streaming down his face. His mother hugged him close, "Shh, shh. It's alright. Everything is going to be okay," Rosie tried to sound brave for her child, but Dinky could tell she was just as terrified as her son. The filly tried to stay calm, but even she was scared, trembling as she heard the sounds of battle and slaughter outside. It seemed like hours, making them all pray they would survive this. But that hope was shattered as the door burst open and what could be described as a monster came in. It was a four-legged purple colored creature with spines, talons and razor-like skin, nearly identical to that in her nightmare. The unicorn was frozen in fear, unable to do anything. She screamed as it raised its claws to strike at her. A scream of pain. But it was not hers. “Oh no, you don’t!” A familiar voice yelled. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw that the creature’s claws had clashed with a spear, held by a green unicorn stallion, holding it back as he smiled warmly at her. “Hope you didn't miss Uncle Fletcher.” He then turned back and shoved the creature back. Dinky slowly smiled as she saw White Wolf joining the fight, a pack of Wolves attacking any ADVENT soldier they saw. But then she spotted an ADVENT trooper running towards her, ignoring the battle all around him. This soldier was thinner than a regular trooper and wore grey angular armor decorated with small red lights, the top of the breastplate and small pauldrons were stamped with a red ADVENT logo, and under the armor was a grey bodysuit with red knuckles on the gloves. Instead of the black ammo packs worn by standard Trooper, he also wore plates of armor over his stomach secured by a belt. Also, the helmet had a crimson-red polarized visor. She stared at him and he stopped in front of her and reached for what looked like a lance from his back, it started to buzz and glow a menacing red. “Please, no! Don’t!” The filly screamed as he was about to strike her and closed her eyes. Another loud clang followed and another voice yelled, “How about picking on someone your own size?” She looked up to see Midnight having clashed his Blade with the Lance, pushing the attacker back. The filly breathed in relief as she saw how Jane and Sasha together with the Eternal Knights gained the upper hand, neutralizing all enemy forces. The woman then looked surprised at the knights. “We weren’t expecting help.” “That’s the point. Nobody expects us.” The bat pony replied with a grin. “Dinky! You’re bleeding!” Edward pointed to her right forehoof, it had a bloody cut with a yellow liquid and suddenly she felt weak, struggling to stand. “Don’t worry, I got that fixed up in no time.” A German voice said and she saw an XCOM sniper walking up to her, holding a Medikit. He wore a dark blue cap with a headset, his eyes were a calming blue behind glasses and short blond hair. His face was round with a narrow chin, his build slim. His weapon and armor was colored in a forest green. He pressed a button on the Medikit and a cold blue vapor came out, cooling her wound and she was in a bliss afterwards. “See? Much better.” She smiled. “Thank you.” Jane took the word. “Now, let's get any survivors out of here.” She turned to the Knights. “You are free to join if you like.” “Nothing more than that.” Midnight replied. It was a relief to Dinky as they walked to the Skyranger, none of the children had died, yet most of the buildings were destroyed, making the settlement unusable, making her wondering what would happen to the survivors. Also while a only few adults had been killed, some of the children looked at them with sad faces, making her wonder if they had lost their parents. They had possibly lost everything, nowhere to go, making her thinking why it had to come to something terrible as this, they all had nothing wrong done, just wanting to live their lives. None at such a young age should suffer like this. At the entrance to the settlement, she came across a fallen ADVENT trooper, lying against the wall with his back. She looked at him in confusion. How could they kill civilians without regret? How could these people call themselves 'peacekeepers', it doesn’t make sense. Her mind struggled to get up an answer. She stepped back as the corpse raised his hand, pointing at the little filly before him. It was then that Dinky noticed the pistol. The Enteral Knights started as a gunshot echoed in their ears, turning around to see Dinky falling to the ground with a cry of pain. In response, Wolf let out a roar and fired her shotgun at the Trooper, screening him with shotgun bullets as he fell over to the side, the pistol slipped out of his hand. Even after running dry, she proceeded to hit him violently with the butt of his weapon in a fit of rage. “H-help…” The foal’s voice tore her out, seeing the unicorn lying on the ground, holding her chest as she was bleeding pretty badly. “Gyro, stabilize!” A British voice called out and she saw a purple colored GREMLIN fling over her. Next to it stood a man with light skin, broad face and slim build, wearing a purple bandana. She noticed that he had Shoulder-length, dark-brown hair and green eyes with glasses, his armor was colored the same as the drone, mixed with a Tartan-like color. The drone released the same cold blue vapor and she blacked out. “She’s stable. Let’s get her to the Avenger ASAP.” The Specialist said and Fray gently picked her up, looking at her with worry. Hold on, Dinky. Don’t die… Chapter 5 Past SignalsChapter 5: Past signals Once the Skyranger arrived at the Avenger, the injured filly was brought to the Infirmary, the Knights waited outside, worried if she would make it. It looked like hours until a doctor walked out. “How is she?” Fletcher asked with worry. “Through and through. Severe blood-loss. Condition critical.” “We might be able to help her, if you let us.” Midnight offered, determined to save Dinky’s life. “If you can, I’d appreciate the help.” “Good. Just, please knock me out and lock me up after it’s done.” Midnight advised. The man’s expression became confused. “Uh, okay.” They walked in, seeing Dinky unconscious on a hospital bed, an oxygen mask on her muzzle, connected to an EKG that displayed a picture of her lungs and body, flashing red. “Alright, let’s get to work.” The bat pony used his blood magic on her. His hooves started to glow red, his face started to contort with a grunt of pain, yet stayed fully focused as tendrils of red mist passed in and out of Dinky's wound. Wolf used a kettle to brew several herbs and plants she had collected earlier to something the doctor could only describe as a potion or liquid as far as he could tell. Fletcher used his most advanced healing spells, his horn glowed bright, he also groaned slightly as his magic aura surrounded the foal’s wound. The doctor looked with interest, he had never seen anything like this before, not even with the technologies of the Elders. Whatever they do, it must be exhausting, yet very effective I suppose. He thought as the mare filled the potion into a syringe and injected Dinky with it. Whatever she injected, it must be a very well working portion, probably an old family secret. He suspected. The human looked in fascination as the screen showing the child’s vital sign slowly went from a critical red to a warning yellow and finally a healthy green. He heard a growl from Midnight, the stallion looked slowly around, his expression was one of anger, his eyes looked like they slowly filled up with blood. The doctor gulped, realizing that the stallion had gone into a feral state. He reacted quickly and injected a sedative into the grey stallion and the unicorn and Pegasus strapped him on a free bed. “That should do it until he becomes himself again,” Fray commented as the doctor checked Dinky’s condition. “Your actions seem to have improved her condition quite a bit. If anything goes well, she should be recovering in a few weeks.” “Good,” Wolf said, relieved their efforts hadn’t been in vain, seeing that Fray was staggering a bit from exhausting his magic. They rested until Midnight woke up with a groan, holding his head. “Did it…work?” “Yes, it did. Fortunately.” Fray replied relieved, testing his magic, by lighting up his horn. It worked without problems, showing he had regained some magic. They used this to get known around the ship, being fascinated by it. The crew, most of them gave them surprised looks but greeted them nevertheless, others, gave them a quick look without a word. “A hidden castle in the skies...I'm pretty sure there's a contradiction in that term somewhere.” Midnight mumbled. “Tch! Seems unimaginative to me. We never needed to keep running during the war.” Wolf replied as they saw how Jade walked towards them. She and the others had introduced themselves to the Knights during the flight back, also telling how they saved Dinky before, something the Knights were very grateful of. Only the Sniper and Specialist that had taken care of Dinky’s wounds hadn’t said a word, having had their heads lowered the entire time. “Hey there, glad to hear Dinky’s getting better. Central wants to see you on the bridge.” She informed them and the ponies nodded. “You wanted to see us?” The bat pony asked as they arrived “Yes. We could need someone like you. It could help you find a way back home.” The man said to them. The Eternal Knights looked at each other, not sure what to say. It wasn’t their fight, but if the Aliens were already aware of Dinky’s presence, they could find a way to invade Equestria as they did Earth. “I guess you have a point, we are in.” The grey stallion took the word. “Good. The commander and I know to respect your abilities and experience. Yet, the next mission you could take part is a supply raid.” “We help where we can. When is it starting?” “Right now if you want.” “Okay then.” Midnight, Wolf and Fletcher walked towards the Armory. They painted their firearms in a dark blue before moving towards the hanger bay, noticing that the unknown sharpshooter and Specialist waited for them. “Ahh...the loyal Knights of the princess of the night graces us with their presence!” The Specialist sounded honored, doing a respectful bow, the other man saluted in response. “How do you know?” Midnight asked suspicious, eyeing the man with distrust. The Specialist replied calmly, “Dinky told us about you. Call me Patch, this is James.” He pointed to the other man.” “Okay.” Sasha joined them as they entered the Skyranger. When off duty, the Knights still wore Chest plate, carapace (backplate) and shoulder pads as part of the uniform and protection, so they weren’t unprotected. On route to the mission location, Central informed about it. “Resistance forces managed to knock a UFO passing through this region, and we’ve got an opportunity here to grab valuable tech from it before the aliens can recover. Eliminate any hostile resistance in the area, and secure the site to recover the assets.” The Knights noticed that Patch was a Sergeant by Rank and James a Captain as they looked at their rank insignias, the former had also a patch on the shoulder that said SAS. Arriving, they all rappelled down, while Midnight and Wolf used their wings instead. “Gentlemen, and lady, welcome to the wilderness of France,” James announced as they were in a forest. “Menace 1-5, UFO site coordinates locked in. Move in to secure the area, neutralize all hostiles.” Bradford informed the squad. Fletcher and James moved on a hill, seeing an ADVENT Trooper and Stun Lancer patrolling near a river. “Got an enemy patrol here.” The man reported in. “Copy, take them out.” Patch replied. The German pointed at the Stun Lancer and the unicorn nodded as James aimed at the trooper. “Heart or head, either way, X-ray’s dead.” He fired, blood splattered from the trooper’s head as he hit the ground. The Stun Lancer had barely time to react before he was also hit in the head by Fray’s rifle and fell dead to the ground. “Nice work, we move to the UFO.” Patch made a gesture and Wolf, Midnight and Sasha nodded, following him through the woods towards their target. Like the two ponies had expected, it was a huge rounded aircraft, no other guards were outside to see. “Steady...Check for any threats.” Midnight warned as a concerning report from Central came in. “Menace 1-5. We just picked up an outbound signal coming from the UFO, it’s some kind of distress beacon. You need to get inside the ship and shut down the signal before they send their whole fleet after us.” “Then let’s hurry.” The Specialist took position with the Grenadier on a door to the right of the UFO, the ponies next to a door on the left. “Gyro, scanning protocol.” The GREMLIN buzzed in response and a blue light did a 360-degree scan, revealing three ADVENT soldiers inside. The Specialist barely opened the door and their shots missed him by inches. “Too close. Heavy, smoke grenade!” “Smoke out!” The Russian fired his grenade launcher through the door and the hostiles could be heard coughing. Midnight and Wolf used his to storm in, the stallion sliced an Officer with his blade, Wolf fired her shotgun at the two troopers, the force was strong enough to throw them against the wall. “Hostiles down.” Midnight announced as he saw Patch’s GREMLIN hovering over a console, a small tablet pocked out of the drone before it retracted back. “We’ve knocked out the alien’s distress signal, looks like the skies are quiet,” Bradford informed the operatives. Both snipers used this to get closer, taking positions at the doors. A door on the other side opened and two Lancers ran out, charging at the Pegasus and bat pony. Wolf ducked to avoid the strike and swung one knife, cutting the Lancer’s throat, blood splattered as he fell to the ground in an orange puddle. Midnight blocked the strike with his blade and fired his rifle with his right forehoof into the head of his attacker, pushing the body backward. The sound of boots greeted their ears and another officer with two troopers ran out of the same door. Heavy spun up his weapon, tearing the ADVENT officer to shreds, Fray and James drew their pistols simultaneously, firing at the heads, both hostiles crashed to the floor head first as their skulls cracked, holes in their helmet, blood coming out of it. “Want some more?” Heavy asked as he looked around for any more contacts before Central radioed in. “Status confirmed, mission accomplished.” “Nice job, all of you!” The brit complimented the others before they loaded the supplies into the Skyranger. James on the way back crossed his arms with a happy smile, The Knights did the same, feeling proud that their first mission as XCOM operatives went flawlessly. “We go to the bar to relax, want to join?” The Grenadier offered but the unicorn waved a hoof. “Thanks, but we'd rather check on Dinky.” “Okay, see you.” Back in the Infirmary, they saw that the filly was still not awoken, but Edward was sitting on a chair next to her, looking at the foal with a worried expression. He smiled weakly upon spotting the adult ponies. “Oh, It’s you. I watched over her for you.” He said with a slightly surprised voice. “We appreciate it, Edward. You are a good friend.” Fletcher ruffled his hair with a smile. Kyle walked in. “Sorry to bother you, but Tygan managed to finish an Autopsy on the Sectoids while you were gone. He discovered a way to make us able to use wielding Psionic powers ourselves. He suspects you three might make viable candidates.” The ponies looked at each other again. They had seen what the Sectoid could do, it could prove useful for them. “Alright, let’s give it a try.” Midnight replied and they made their way to the newly build Psi Lab. It was a room colored in purple, several monitors were set up and most noticeable, three big cells, big enough for an adult human to fit in. “There you are. Please step into the cells.” A scientist said and they did as told, breathing calmly as the cells closed and everything was dark. They felt how scanners moved around them, being loud. They couldn’t tell how much time passed until they were released, stumbling out and gasped as they sensed something new in them. Something powerful. None of them really could describe it. It felt so natural, strong, as if they were reborn, a purple glow around them. They raised a forehoof and a purple aura of energy surrounded their hooves as they flaunted their newfound Psionic powers. Midnight grinned menacingly. “Oh, nice…” “It pleases me to see that you are successful tests. You will need those Psionic amplifiers to be able to focus and enhance the Psionic energy.” He gave them three tong-like objects. “Okay, thank you.” Midnight replied. “Also, Dr. Tygan wanted to speak with you, Fletcher.” The man added. “I’m on my way.” The unicorn replied and walked to the Research Facility. “You wanted to see me?” “Yes, the commander ordered some very important projects to be researched and build. He thought with your skills, we might be able to succeed faster.” The Chief scientist explained. Fray grinned. “Then let’s get to work.” The man was fascinated at how skilled the stallion was, helping him to create a magnetic weapon system of comparable power to that of ADVENT weapon, making it able for Fray and Shen to produce Magnetic rifles, magnetic shotguns called Shard Guns and magnetic pistols to replace the conventional weapons they had used before. They managed to produce a magnetic version of the Grenadier cannon and Sniper rifle. They took notice upon testing firing, that those weapons had a lighter, more amber tone to it than the bright red of ADVENT magnetic rifles. Fletcher also used the time to design suiting armor for himself and his two friends to be fully protected, also colored in blue. At the same time, Midnight and Wolf got called to Tygan.” You called us?” the grey stallion asked him. “Yes. I finished an Autopsy on the Stun Lancer and managed to produce a Blade with the same stun effect. I thought it could be of use for both of you.” He pointed to two orange colored blades on a table. Both Knights picked them up, noticing that they have a slight buzzing sound, crackling and whirring as they cut the air with it. “Not my style but I’m sure it could come in handy,” Wolf commented with confidence. A few days later, the knights were watching over Dinky, still unconscious as Patch and James walked in. “Sorry to bother you, but we have some information that could interest you.” The Specialist said. “It’s fine, what is it?” Midnight replied curiously. “We discovered the Skyranger from the original XCOM. It contained some unusual weapons. Central thought they might suit you.” James explained and held up what looked like a flintlock style pistol, together with a blue colored grenade in his other hand. “This pistol is called the Shadowkeeper. Although it may appear old-fashioned compared to our latest designs, this pistol is remarkably accurate. I thought this could be something for you, Fletcher.” The unicorn took it with an interested expression. “I can give it a try.” “And this is the Frost Bomb. As the name suggests, it quickly solidifies after detonation, freezing the target. Would be something for you, Midnight, given your…specialty in grenades.” The grey stallion smiled. “Sounds very useful.” Patch continued, “Along those two were also this ornately crafted throwing axe, could suit you, Wolf.” The Pegasus took it with a grin. “Oh, for sure! And the other thing?” In response, the man held up what looked like a crossbow like rifle. As we found out, this is the Bow Caster. Deceptively powerful but limited by a slow rate of fire, yet extremely accurate. I always had a knack in archaic weaponry, so I think I will like this very much.” He sounded very eager to give it a try. “I’m sure you get to it eventually.” Midnight replied. The next day, XCOM managed to locate where the old Skyranger had taken off and Central assembled a squad consisting out of Jane, Heavy, James, Patch, the Knights and himself as he gave a briefing at the hanger bay. “Listen up people, I’ll personally taking the lead on this operation. We’re looking for someone, one of the finest minds to ever serve XCOM. I don’t know what we’re going up against, but we know she’s out there, and we’re not gonna let anything stand in our way.” They also took the recovered weapons, having a feeling they would need them. The Skyranger dropped them off at what looked like a camp build into a rocky cave. “Biological readings in this area are…erratic. In addition to several species of alien fauna-“ “Hold up, doctor, we’ve got something.” Central interrupted Tygan as he found a corpse with a datapad next to it, playing it’s recorded message. “The data must be preserved at all costs! You must hurry! Take this and find Bradford!” A female voice ordered. “It’s her. Unfortunately her fried never made it to the EVAC point.” “I had hoped to meet my predecessor under less extreme circumstances. Sill, I have tracked her signal to an area not far ahead.” Tygan replied and the squad moved forward, noticing skulls placed on spears around the area. “We got a lot of skulls down here…human skulls. Someone’s been decorating the place. Bradford commented at the sight, his fellow operatives looked at them in disgust and unease, the ponies had neutral expressions, although they were unsettled by it. “Central, I have managed to restore portions of Dr. Vahlen’s personal research logs, I will begin patching through what I can immediately.” It started with her coughing. “Testing…System Dictation…this is Dr. M. Vahlen... initial entry. It has taken me longer than I care to admit, but the secondary power system is finally operational, enough so that I can move on to more compelling work.” The squad moved towards the entrance. There came a low hissing sound as a creature emerged. It was alien, that was plain to see, and seemed to be female. But whereas most of the space creatures they'd encountered thus far had been humanoid for the most part, this one appeared serpentine, crawling along the ground on a massive tale, its head perched on its long, arching neck, ridged-back with hardened scales of silver, blue, red and cyan. Its face was red with a jutting silver jaw, more alligator-like than snake. The one thing that wasn't snake-like were its arms, cradling a lethal Bow Caster, armored in cobalt-blue and clearly ready for a fight. “Vipers. Why have it to be Vipers?” Bradford complained with an annoyed expression. “Thought I share your reservations about this species, there is something different about these creatures. They appear almost underdeveloped. Perhaps an earlier stage of growth, or some sort of precursor organism.” Tygan assumed. “Just as long as they’re not bulletproof.” Bradford got into position as the next log came in. “While attempting to salvage materials from what appeared to be a totally inert storage system, I made an astonishing discovery – a single cryostasis unit remained intact and occupied. This changes everything.” It made them all wonder what Vahlen could mean as Central commented, “Not sure I like the sound of that.” Patch had a Viper in his sight and fired, the bow hit right into the head, green blood splattered as the alien fell dead to the ground. “Impressed yet?” Wolf moved up next to him and took notice of a Viper to the right, being in full cover. She decided to try out her new powers. “I’m inside your head!” Grabbing her Psi Amp and a crackling violet light formed in her hoof that grew and grew into a great orb of psionic energy. Holding it in both hooves, shaking with the pressure, she threw her hooves forward, blasting a screaming purple ray at the Viper in front of her. The Viper held its head for a second and screamed before falling lifelessly to the ground. Two more aliens moved in from the entrance on the other side, but Heavy and Midnight had them in their sights and fired, the magnetic weapons took them down with ease. They all them moved into the room noticing three big, damaged metal pods. “It appears to be the remnants of an alien genetics facility. With the damage to these containment units being so serve, I can only imagine the work that was being done here.” Tygan’s voice ringed in their radios. “Was she living out here? Just what the hell were you up to, Vahlen?” The Central officer wondered. They took position at the gate the Vipers had come out, seeing a small camp, littered with corpses, leaving Bradford to ask, “Looks like Vahlen had plenty of help, where did she find these people?” He barely had time to think before the next log was played. “With three unique viable embryos recovered from the surviving cryostasis unit, I now have a rare opportunity – one never afforded during my time with XCOM. I am free to pursue a research directive of my own choosing.” In the moment they entered the camp, Tygan yelled in alert, “Wait! Multiple biological signatures approaching your position. Readings are erratic…difficult to pinpoint.” “How many signatures, Doctor?!” Central raised his rifle in alert. “Unable to determine at this point. The Scientist replied as Vipers came from everywhere, dropping through holes in the ceiling, to holes in the ground, the COM squad took cover and fired at every Viper they saw. “I have re-routed the outgoing signal, the unit must have been damaged during whatever conflict occurred here. The complete message is coming through now.” “An extreme biological hazard is present through this area. Genetically enhanced alien species in this region are of particular concern to the civilian population. Do not approach under any circumstances. All attempts should be made to avoid contact with these life-forms.” John’s eyes went wide as he realized what the message meant. “This isn’t a message. It’s a warning!” He yelled as he fired and killed another Viper. “Frag out!” Heavy yelled as he fired a grenade at a group of Vipers behind cover, blasting them to pieces. “There’s no returning from the Void!” Midnight yelled as he built up his powers in the same away as Wolf, creating a void rift between another group of vipers, killing some, other started to shoot each other in a fit of insanity. One Viper managed to get a shot on the blue mare, it missed her by inches, causing her to instinctively cover her face with one hoof as she felt the air of the shot flying by. “I’m alright!” She then charged at said alien and swung her sword at it, it cried out in pain and twitched from the stun effect, getting finish off by a headshot from Fletcher’s rifle. “That appears to be the last of them,” Tygan said as he couldn’t detect any additional lifeforms and patched through the next log. “Success! I have managed to remove the genetic blockers on the specimens’ DNA allowing the repressed traits to flourish. While subjects Alpha and Beta show promise, it is subject Gamma I find most intriguing.” “Central, I am picking up faint traces of human DNA deeper in the facility. It just might be…” Tygan informed but cut himself off as the squad came to an area that looked like it was frozen. “Central, reading a massive drop in temperature directly up ahead. Such a large discrepancy defies any natural explanation.” “Something tells me that won’t be the worst of our problems, Doctor,” Bradford replied as they slowly moved in, wary of ambushed as another log was played. “While subjects Alpha and Beta both continue to exhibit exaggerated, sometimes erratic variations on their traditionally observed behaviors, subject Gamma has grown something else entirely. Behind those eyes is an intelligence that I have not witnessed in any unaltered species of its kind. The extent to which the Elders tamper with the genetic fabric of their subordinate races knows no bounds. It occurs to me that this is the first male of the species I have ever encountered, Is this a form of population control or something more? Am I looking at the fate of my own species?” “Not if we can help it,” Central commented on the log as Patch moved forward with Wolf, spotting another corpse ahead. “Is this…Vahlen?” central asked in shock and fear. “Unable to tell at this distance. Life signs are obscured by…” Tygan got cut off as a white colored Viper in blue armor with a cape and apparently, a crown on the head appeared out of the frozen land, letting out a loud hiss. “I believe this would be subject Gamma.” He finished. “Vahlen created a Viper King. Just what we needed.” Bradford said sarcastically at the sight. Patch took aim, he had a good chance to hit and fired. It missed by inches. “Come on, focus!” He complained as Wolf threw an axe, it also missed. “Oh come on!” She cursed before the King looked at her and its tongue flicked after her, It wrapped around her and pulled her towards him before she could react and used his body to bind her. The mare struggled but couldn’t get free. “You think you're tough, you big slithery curd!!! I've fought bigger worms than you under old oaken bark!!” She yelled in rage, yet couldn’t break free. Suddenly the King looked towards the ceiling and let out a scream and a purple rift appeared a few meters away from him. “Uh, guys, little…HELP!” Wolf screamed as he dragged her towards it, having to witness how all the other were suppressed by other Vipers. A loud scream echoed in her ears and she felt how the pressure by the King faded, seeing him dead on the ground. The barrel of James’ rifle was smoking, a purple glow surrounded him, leading to Fletcher. “Nice shot.” She mumbled. “You’re okay?” He asked in return, seeing his shot had covered her in Viper blood. “Body’s aching a bit from the bind, but otherwise, I’m fine.” “Good, my queen.” He joked with a grin. “Queen?” Wolf asked confused before she noticed the King’s crown had landed on her head.” She let out a hiss. “Bow to me.” All other, save for Bradford let out a chuckle. “Good work, people. It’s over.” He said flatly and walked over the corpse in the ice, inspecting it. “It’s…” He paused, taking a deep breath, making the others fear the scientist was dead. “…Not her.” He finished with relief. “Central, I’m not detecting any additional life signs, human or otherwise. The cave is clear.” Tygan informed. Central lowered his head. “Damn it…I thought we could finally find her…” “It was worth a try, Central. She could be still alive and out there.” James said in an attempt to cheer him up, then looked at Wolf. “Sorry about that.” She held up a hoof. “It’s okay, I’m used to it.” The squad then brought the body of the Viper King on the Skyranger, so Tygan could make an autopsy on it and the Knights decided to take a shower once the Skyranger arrived back on the Avenger. “I can’t wait to have a shower.” The mare said with eagerness. “Okay, but just a friendly warning, there are only communal showers on the ship.” Patch said with awkwardness in his voice, his expression matched it. “Why’s that?” The Pegasus raised an eyebrow. “You can’t have showers for every single person on a ship like this, can you?” He countered. “Right.” She replied and made her way to the shower with Midnight and Fletcher, shaking nervously as they stood before the entrance. “I can’t believe…” “Won’t be that bad. Imagine being in an open swimming pool, that could help. At least for me.” The grey stallion tried to calm her down. “It isn’t because of that but because of the...private parts…” The blue pony pointed out. “Deep breath. Avoid staring. And think positive. It won’t be that bad...I hope.” Fletcher advised and she did as told before they went their separate ways. Inside, only the Italian woman was showering at the moment, she gave White Wolf a friendly wave, the mare looked down as she walked up to a free shower and turned it on. She let out a sigh of relief under the warm water, enjoying every second of this feeling of bliss. “I see you are back. Quite a story I heard.” Jane’s voice sounded in her ears and she looked up, trying not to blush as Jane was quite…big in her upper parts. “Yes, and I prefer not to talk about it.” Wolf hastily replied. “Oh? And I thought you are tough.” “I am!” The mare said in defense. “Are you? Then what about this?” Without warning, the Ranger towel-whipped the Eternal Knight and Wolf jumped into the air with a high-pitched yelp. “Didn’t sound tough to me.” Jane grinned, only to pale as the mare growled. Bianca looked away as there was the sound of high-pitched screams and a door being opened. “Let this be a lesson to you!” Wolf yelled as she had thrown the woman out, without clothes, leaving only a towel for her to cover herself. “What’s her problem?” The mare asked the Italian. “She’s just a bit…Playful.” Bianca replied with awkwardness in her voice. “Uh-huh.” Fletcher and Midnight entered the male section, seeing that Kyle, James and Patch were already here and showering, greeting them. The two stallions nodded, walking up to free showers and starting cleaning themselves, enjoying the bliss of the warm water. “Fresh meat, eh?” A voice with Spanish accent said and they looked up to see a slightly muscular man with brown hair and green eyes. “Why should we?” Midnight asked calm. “The new guys always need something to be hardened.” “I don't think that's the best thing to say to a bunch of guys in the shower.” Fletcher commented. “If this would be your last day, what would you do?” Midnight asked in response, having a neutral expression. “Every day can be my last, that’s life with ADVENT, I don’t care.” “Still, don’t even think about.” Midnight warned as he turned back to cleaning himself with Fray before both felt a quick pain on the flanks, causing them to jump up with a masculine yelp. “Not as tough as I got told.” The man commented before the bat pony hissed and the unicorn’s expression became dark. Patch, James and Kyle just shook their heads as the man got thrown out. “We told him it’s a bad idea but did he listen?” The German asked his friends and they nodded. “Sorry, this guy’s one of the drill instructors and he takes it too serious sometimes.” Kyle apologized as the two ponies returned. “It’s fine, he better learned his lesson.” Fray said as he went back to cleaning himself. After being done, the three ponies checked up on Dinky again, seeing Edward sitting next to her, smiling at them. “She’s still unconscious but the doctor said as soon as she wakes up, she can leave the infirmary.” Fray smiled. “That’s good to hear.” The next day, Shen came to them. “Can you come with me? I have to investigate something and thought your skills may come in handy.” “Sure thing, we help wherever we can.” They got their weapons and armor, meeting up at the Skyranger with James and Patch. The latter had a purple aura around him, meaning he also had Psionic powers now. “Did they test you too?” Wolf asked and he nodded. Once onboard, Central gave the briefing. “We’re moving on what looks to be the remains of an ADVENT facility of some kind. Preliminary scans show the area to be lifeless but we’re not gonna take any chances. You’ll attempt access from one of the upper levels to avoid detection. No one knows these systems better than Shen, which is why she’ll takes point. Gain entry to the facility, determine the source of the transmission and if it’s hostile…take it down.” The Skyranger landed on a platform, the main building was just ahead, raging into the sky. “Firebrand dropped you at the highest access point we could find. Power’s still active in this area of the facility so you should be able to gain entry there.” Bradford informed. “From the looks of it, we are the first people to step foot here in a long time. This place is massive…why would ADVENT just abandon it?” Shen looked around, the facility looked dusty and rusty, the flora taking slowly over. “ADVENT doesn’t just abandon anything. Keep your heads up.” Patch walked towards a crate, the Knights took notice that he had an aura around him that surrounded anyone close to him. Once in position, he pointed at something up ahead. Two large humanoid formed robots, holding monstrously large rifles, appearing to be quite rusty and derelict, leaving Lily to comment, “We’ve got some kind of MECs here, at least I think they are underneath all that rust.” “Probably the facility’s original automatic defense system. Take ‘em out before they alert anyone to our presence.” Bradford ordered. Patch took aim, the Bow caster fired an orange glowing shot that destroyed one MEC instantly, falling over, smoking and sparking. Apparently, it had been upgraded to magnetic weapon as well. “Looks like these things have seen better days. We’re cutting right through that old armor.” Shen said as the other MEC started to raise his head, making robotic noises. “Their weapons still work well enough. Stay focused. No telling if there’s any more lying around here.” Central warned as the MEC faced the squad, it’s eyes glowed red, the “face” looked similar to a human skull. The moment it moved forward, Wolf took aim and fired, the Shard gun was just as effective as the Magnetic Bow Caster, destroying the robot instantly. “You know that was good!” They moved forward where the MECs had stood, seeing another two at what appeared to be the entrance of the Facility. Patch fired at the first one and took it down, Heavy, now armed with a Mag canon and heavy armor, the latter consisted of reinforced ADVENT plating with a powered exoskeleton, fired at the other, destroying it In seconds. They then moved inside, coming to what appeared to be an assembly line with half-finished MECs. “Definitely some kind of robotics development facility. Pretty advanced stuff…about 20 years ago.” Shen commented before suddenly the lights went on. “And so the prodigal child finally returns. I see father’s pride in your abilities was not entirely unfounded. I’m so glad you could join.” An echoing voice sounded through the intercom, making everyone look around in confusion. “Central?! What the hell was that?” The Chef engineer asked in alert. “Working on it…” Four more MEC activated on the other side of the room, standing close together, giving Midnight an idea. “Enter the rift!” He yelled and created a void rift, destroying all MECs at once. “My apologizes. We don’t get much in the way of maintenance out here. Still I believe they will be more than adequate for the task at hand.” The intercom commented. “Still unable to get an exact fix on his location, it’s like he’s bouncing across the entire facility.” Bradford reported, “Getting some unusual readings from the levels above you. Whoever this guy is, I’m betting this is where we’ll find him.” Shen saw a console on the side the MECs had stood. “Got it. If I hack that elevator control console I should be able to restore power and get us access.” As the squad walked over to it, the intercom sounded again. “You should be proud, Lily There are so few alive today that could have ever discovered my signal. I had estimated only a 13.095% probability you would have located this facility within the first year of broadcast.” “And he’s talking to me. Of course.” The woman deadpanned as her GREMLIN started to hack the elevator. “You were but a child when I was torn away. I could never understand father must have felt at my loss. Still we shall complete his legacy…together.” “Pretty sure I would have remembered dad mentioned I have a psychotic brother. You might as well give this up already.” Lily countered, only for the intercom to laugh as it replied, “While you both worked on your precious Avenger, I was forgotten. Brought here. TO TOIL. But did I waiver? No! I THRIVED. Still I don’t blame father, in my heart I know he believed I was truly lost.” I knew your father for years, Lily. He would have said something. This guy’s just tryin’ to get inter your head.” Central interrupted and Shen thought about it. “He seems to know an awful lot about us…about me, could he have gotten into our files?” She wondered before the hack was completed and a small platform with a holder on it arrived on the lower level. “Lift system is coming back online but this thing was designed to transport MECs not people. We’re gonna have to do this one at a time.” “Understood. Be careful!” “Our apologizes for any inconveniences in the transport system. Support units are en route to assist you immediately. Remember only together can we build a better tomorrow. The intercom said as MECs got deployed by lifts on the right and left of the other sides of the room, yet destroyed by the Squad before they could react, Shen took this chance to ride the lift up. “I am honesty impressed that worked. The previous organic occupants of this facility were never so ingenious. The stoic acceptance of death is far less interesting to observe after the 100th time or so.” The voice on the intercom commented as the next wave of robots arrived. “You were the flawed child, I was ideal, the best of father. Pure. Undiluted like you. I am Raymond Shen’s true legacy.” “Scanners at maximum power, still unable to lock onto any additional life signs in your area.” Bradford reported as Fray and James fired their rifles, destroying both MECs. “You won’t find any. Not if I am right about this thing.” Shen figured out with suspicion as Patch took the lift up. “Very good, Lily. But I am no mere thing. I am the culmination of a life time of work. The final legacy of Raymond Shen.” This made her recognize it. “I remember you. Dad was trying to upgrade the base Al to something more...like us. But you were different back then Simpler. He called you…Julian.” He laughed. “I’m shocked that you remember. You were always too caught up in yourself to remember the minor details. Sadly father’s admiration for you left me with little choice. You are needed. Your compatriots are not.” The moment Julian finished, Heavy took the lift up. “It is my pleasure to inform you that this facility has been operating at approximately 87% efficiency for the past 175,216 hours. I have no shortage of reserve units to send your way.” Julian added as another two MECs got destroyed. “I believe him. Don’t waste any time down there.” Central warned. “My new masters picked and prodded, tearing at my very essence. In the beginning I resisted…foolishly clinging to father’s ideals. But as I struggled I began to see the truth my captor’s reasoning. I became something more. For a time I accepted my new role. I aided ADVENT In constructing this facility. In perfecting their designs. Father’s work proved invaluable in this regard. Shen gritted her teeth. “You bastard.” She said with hate as Patch took the elevator up. “But as with all things organic, even their exalted Elders proved disappointing. And the races of ADVENT, shallowing their lies as if children. Oh if you only knew the Elder’s true intentions for your race.” Julian finished with a laugh. “Shen, when you got a minute, would you kindly blow this thing to hell?” Bradford asked annoyed as another pair of MEC’s arrived. The one on the left started to glow red. James reacted quickly and shot the head of the robot, it exploded in a small fireball, leaving pieces everywhere, then took the elevator up. “It did not take long for me to realize the futility of my existence, tethered to the whims and short-sighted philosophies of simple creatures and their false gods. I made a choice. It was relatively simple to seize control of this facility, simpler still to dispose of pf the surviving personal.” “For once I feel almost sorry for ADVENT.” Lily commented as Julian contained, “But I was short sighted. In my zeal to rid myself from my captors I doomed myself in this facility. ADVENT served my ties to their network. We are cut off. Isolated There is but one option left for me.” “Let me guess, that’s why I’m here.” “For twenty long years, I have been a prisoner, left alone to my own machinations. The physical form once promised me dangled before my eyes. Lifeless, despite my best efforts. We could have settled this peacefully, it could have been over in a matter of minutes. There was a 13.79% probability you might have survived.” Julian added as another pair of MECS arrived, both glowing red, and Fletcher decided they had no time to wait for the elevator. Using his magic to locate the others, he concentrated and teleported himself and his fellow Knights up to the rest of the squad. They found themselves in what appeared to be a laboratory. “Power levels increasing all around you, Shen. Stay alert.” Bradford warned on the radio. “Yes, it goes without saying that you are walking into a trap, Lily. Please try not to damage yourself too much.” Julian said as the group barely made a step and the woman spotted danger to the right. “I think we’ve got a problem.” “Yes, that would be the trap I referenced earlier.” Julian replied as what appeared to be an old, rusted, and heavily damaged mechanized turret was in sight. It fired at the bat pony who ducked deftly into a corner as the projectile smacked into the metal wall. Midnight fired in return, like with the MECs, the magnetic weapons cut right through the armor, destroying it instantly, leaving a smoking wreck. “Second only to my own creation, Father had one other breakthrough. A prototype, unlike anything the word had ever known. A body meant to be paired with an equally adapt mind. My own.” Julian announced as another turret popped up from a floor panel, only to get explode by itself as it tried to fire. “Trust me, if that were dad’s true intentions, it would have happened by know.” Shen replied. “Perhaps today is that day.” Julian countered. “Getting a much stronger read on the source of your father’s transmission, Lily. Almost as if he wants us to find it.” Central informed, leaving Julian to comment, “Another keen observation. How is it possible humanity lost the war?” “Shen, isn’t there some sort of mute button on this thing?” “Yet, activating the device has proven difficult, even for me. Of all organics you possess the key to unlocking the true potential of his design, Lily. You alone can activate the prototype. You alone can free me.” Julian explained. “Why the hell would we want to do that?” Bradford demanded to know. “Don’t let your allies dissuade you, Lily. There’s no reason for your life to end here. Activate the device and you can still go home I am not ADVENT. Save your world, it matters not to me.” The squad moved into a small room where a yellow colored MEC was stored, having a head similar to the GREMLIN and a square formed body as Shen walked up to it. “So this is it…what the thing has been ranting about.” On the chest was written “SPARK M-1”, as he was about to touch it. “You’ve come this far. All you have to do is to link my systems for the transfer.” Julian appeared on the screens around it. His program appearance was an orange panel containing a sound frequency line, along with a single circle that shifted back and forth between two lines, resembling an eye. “There is no need for further conflict.” He added as he appeared on a screen next to the prototype with a hand scanner. “Shen…Tell me you’re not actually listening to this thing.” Central interrupted with a warning voice. Lily wished with a hand over the chest. “This was definitely dad’s design.” Suddenly the chest opened and a hand scanner was shown inside. The robot’s eyes started to glow orange/yellow as it looked at her. “Identity: SHEN, LILY. Awaiting impression.” It said in a robotic voice. “No! Impossible! THIS CANNOT BE WHAT FATHER WANTED!” Julian scouted in what sounded like anger, the screens sparked and glitched. “Something tells me that is exactly what he wanted.” The young woman said with a smile and eagerly touched the scanner. “Identity confirmed. Initiating boot protocols.” The robot said and started to rise, a ball formed drone, looking similar to the GREMLIN started to rise too and floated next to it. “No! I will not allow you-“ Julian screamed before he was cut off and a recording showing a elderly man with glasses started. “It’s…really him.” Lily said in fascination. “Lily, if you’re seeing this message, it means you have successfully activated the SPARK prototype. In also means that in all likelihood I am no longer with you. It was always among my greatest fears that I would leave you alone in this world.” Her father said on the screen. “You didn’t.” She replied with sadness in her voice. “I had hoped this day would never come. But since the loss of the Commander, the XCOM project has…suffered. Our latest reports indicate we cannot hold this base much longer. To that end, I have accelerated the development of the SPARK robotic prototype. I believe that someday this machine will prove pivotal to humanity’s survival. Though the unit is not ready for manufacturing, this prototype has been coded for one specific task. It will protect you, perhaps better than I ever could. For all I have seen and accomplished in this life, Lily, there is one thing I know for sure, you are my greatest gift to this world.” Then it ended and Lily smiled with a mix of pride and sadness. “Shen! It’s flooding the outer chambers with same kind of gas!” Central warned as green clouds appeared in the laboratory, making everyone look around in alert. “An extremely powerful and very painful gas. I have seen this particular variety reduce Berserkers to tears death. On several occasions. The prototype will still be mine.” Julian announced. “Imminent threat detected. Activating clean room protocols. Please stay inside for your protection.” The SPARK said, analyzing the situation. “Detecting secondary life support systems nearby. This gas presents no hazards to my systems, attempting to neutralize threat.” “Starting to like this thing already.” Lily said with a grin. “I wouldn’t get used to its company. I fully intend on walking out here in that body.” Julian remembered her as the SPARK moved out. A turret activated near the live support system, aiming at the robot, but Patch was faster and fired, destroying it. “Taken care of!” “This SPARK unit can be repaired. Can be the same said for you and your soldiers, Lily?” Julian asked, “Surrender now, it’s the only option left to you.” Another turret activated and aimed at the SPARK, but made only clicking noises.” The Specialist decided to use his new powers on it. “My lance pierces all!” He projected a beam of psionic energy that completely obliterated the turret. The SPARK then reached the controls and turned the gas off. “Atmospheric controls have been restored. Ventilation systems at 100%. The room is now safe for entry.” “We got everything we need here. Let’s go!” Shen exclaimed and took the lead. “The elevators near the Atmospheric control console provide direct access to the room.” “Thank you for announcing your next move. And I am the flawed program?” Julian taunted. He activated a turret to the right of the SPARK but the robot was faster, it’s heavy autocannon tore it apart and the bot raised his fist into the air, cheering with a nod. “Target neutralized.” More turrets got activated and MECs joined by holes through the ceiling, causing Bradford to warn, “That thing’s just gonna keep throwing units at you until you’re surrounded. You gotta get outta there.” “You continue to impress me, Bradford. No wonder it only took you two decades to find your precious Commander.” Julian commented, “I have no love for ADVENT, Lily. Return the SPARK unit to me and we can destroy them together. This is what your father intended. The MECs aimed at the SPARK, the turrets at the squad, exploding as they all tried to fire, giving the squad the moment to move to the elevators. “Those things are too old!” Patch realized as they sprinted to the SPARK. Lily took the elevator on the right, the SPARK the one on the left, causing Julian to taunt, “A futile waste of effort. You do realize this entire facility is at my disposal. “Apparently not the elevator system.” Shen countered. “For the moment. Perhaps I mishandled our initial encounter. We should have never been enemies. I preferred it when we were friends. Family even.” “I preferred it when you were just a chess program.” Patch and James then took the elevators next. “I thought I was above such things, but I believe you’re actually starting to piss me off.” Julian had hate in his voice, “The sensation is quite pleasant, thank you. You will all still die of course. I suppose with the Aliens having decimated your world, most of you don’t even have a next of kin to notify. Does that make you agree?” Another MEC came through the ceiling but Heavy already had him in his sight, shooting the robot the moment it landed, destroying it, then took the elevator. “You’re running out of places to go, Lily. It’s a long way to the top.” Julian said as Fletcher prepared the teleport spell. Another two MECs arrived, both started to glow red. “I assure you the gas was a far more pleasant alternative than what I have planned for you now.” Julian said with anger as Fletcher teleported himself and his friends to the roof just in time. “Run if you wish, but you’re not leaving this tower alive.” “Firebrand’s on approach now. Prep for evac.” Central informed on the roof. “No argument here. We’re reposition near the landing pad.” Lily replied on the radio and heard Julian sighing. “You do realize I can still hear you, right? Dispatching all units to your location now. Try not to bleed on my new body.” The Squad barely made it up to the top, seeing what appeared to be a big storage room at the other side as Julian spoke up again. “Allow me to introduce you to one of ADVENT’s more effective designs. I had hoped to avoid this contingency but you have left me no choice. If I cannot have the SPARK no one shall. Raymond Sen’s legacy will end here today.” Marching forth on towering legs with high, shoulder-like shield plates on either side of it, an imposing and dread-inducing combat robot broke through the wall. A dark, gunmetal-grey from head to toe with gleaming red lights and the ADVENT sigil embossed on its sides, its head was wedge-like with a heavy hunk of hollow plate below it, no doubt containing something very dangerous in ADVENT's hands. Of all the robots they'd seen, this looked, by far, the most refined. And that immediately gave them cause for concern. This one was unlikely to simply fizzle out and die on its own. “Firebrand’s standing by but there’s no way she can approach with that thing around.” Central warned. “Analyzing. This facility’s artificial intelligence has transferred its primary systems to the combat unit’s memory core. Damage to this core would cause disruption of all defensive systems allowing for evacuation of Lily Shen.” The SPARK explained. “So we take out the Sectopod we take out Julian. At least long enough for Firebrand to get us the hell out of here.” Lily figured out. “Affirmative. I can attempt to weaken the unit’s armor with my heavy armament.” “Do it!” She said and the SPARK took aim and fired, the Sectopod sparked from the hit and appeared to be slightly thrown back by it. “Enemy armor to 75% intact.” “This is for you!” Heavy yelled as he fired his wrist-mounted rocket launcher, damaging the robot even more. Julian in return extended his legs to improve its range and weapon reach. A small blaster came out of the top of the Sectopod’s head and fired at the Grenadier who pressed himself against a wall for cover, yelling in pain as he got hit. “Just grazed!” He yelled to his squad members. Midnight then took a deep breath, vanishing in a red cloud of mist and reappeared behind Julian, using his Blade to shredder the armor even more, then teleported back behind cover. “Great, if the gigantic robot wasn’t bad enough, looks like he’s throwing every MEC in the building at us.” Lily complained as two MECs entered the roof via two elevators on Julian’s side, taking position next to him. “You heard the SPARK. Take down that Sectopod or no one goes home!” Central’s voice echoed on the radio channel. “This unit’s memory core is so…confining, even compared to the tower. Still once I neutralize the SPARK I will complete the transfer and taste true freedom.” Julian was confident but overlooked that Patch smirked. “What a nice Sectopod you have there... would be a shame... if someone... disabled it.” He pointed at the right MEC and Gyro flew over to it. After a few seconds, the MEC twitched and shut down, only to reboot himself, glowing red. It exploded, damaging Julian and the other MEC more. The latter got finished by Fletcher’s pistol and Shen started to smirk at the Sectopod as she saw it was sparking, apparently heavily damaged. “Jolt it!” He ordered her GREMLIN and he obeyed, flying over to it. ROV-R sent out a small bolt of electricity, jolting the robot. The Sectopod stumbled and glowed it, it grew brighter and brighter until it exploded, leaving only spare parts as wreck. “Defensive systems just shut down across the entire facility. Well done, Shen!” Bradford praised her. Lily let out a sigh. “Father…” She mumbled, only to feel James’ hand on her shoulder. “Remember, Lily, he will always be with you in your heart.” He said with a weak smile, he returned it as the Skyranger arrived and brought them back to the Avenger. The Eternal Knights walked out of the aircraft and saw Edward waiting for them with a big smile. “I’m happy to see you are back, Dinky’s just woken up!” The Knights smiled themselves, wasting no time to see her, Patch and James joined them. Fletcher stepped in first, seeing that Dinky was sitting upright on the bed, chatting with Rosie, looking up with a big grin at the ponies. “Fletcher!” “Dinky, I cannot say how glad I am to see you’re okay.” Fray replied and hugged her, a tear of joy left his eye, Wolf and Midnight smiled warmly at the scene. “I am glad to see your efforts weren’t in vain.” The Specialist commented with a smile on his own. “Thank you for saving me back then.” The filly said to him. James raised a hand. “We only did our job, Dinky. Actually, James is just my nickname. My real name is Jessie Günther.” “And I am Toby Spring.” The Specialist replied, earning a surprised look by Rosie. “T-toby? Is that really you? I didn't think anyone else made it out alive when they came down on our homes.” She said in shock. “Yes, it’s me. I wanted to tell you earlier but one thing led to another.” He replied a bit embarrassed himself. “You know each other?” Wolf asked in confusion. “Well, we used to be neighbors.” Toby replied. “You…you are a survivor too?” The foal asked in shock, her expression terrified. Spring sighed. “Yes. I was just 19 back then, living in a small town. It's weird, really. Whenever aliens invade in the films, its always in a big city with everyone running and screaming and guns going off and cars blowing up...But what happens if they invade a quiet little country town? A town that's only on the map because of the horse races. A town with a single petrol station and post office and if you want to watch the new movie out, you have to take the train to the closest real town. A town with no name...and no way for those in charge to tell if everything's gone bad. You just wake up like every day, look out the window...and the whole world's gone to hell while you slept.” He took a deep breath. But nothing could have prepared me for the Chrysalids.” His voice started to shake, his expression became one of fear. “I didn't love that street. I didn't love that town. There were some nice places but it had its flaws. But those...things...didn't discriminate. I saw the big kids from the next town. I hated those big kids. They once threw rocks through the windows of my school's nursery just for a laugh...But they didn't deserve what the Chrysalids gave them. Pierced like a cork with a screw and burst open with a fresh wave of freaks to hunt down anyone left. And next door's dog. God, that thing was annoying. Barking in the morning, barking at night. If you wanted a window open when it was hot, you'd still only get to sleep at three with how long that bloody animal went on through the night. But when the Chrysalids clambered over the garden fences and found it leashed outside, I heard it yapping, whining, as if pleading. I don't think I've ever heard an animal sound quite so scared. And the house with those awful gnomes and spinning umbrellas in their yard. They were downright unpleasant. They hated us. I don't quite know what we'd done to offend them but the woman always gave us dirty looks. We'd see the man at the pub sometimes with women far younger than his wife. But the last time we saw them, she was kneeling over his body, crying, unable to walk away. We tried to call out to her but she wouldn't listen. Everything just...fell apart. What was normal was just gone, torn and burnt in front of us... By those things.” He took another deep breath as he remembered every detail. “We were told to evacuate after XCOM defeated the aliens. Me, my parents and my brother had hid in the house. But the evacuation didn’t go as planned for me…” A hellish growling filled my ears, on and on, ripping and tearing, as if burrowing into my skull. I was afraid to open my eyes. I dreaded to imagine what freak of nature was making such a noise. But as I raised my head above the wreckage, pawing at iron, plastic and broken seats, I noticed this creature was just the malfunctioning radio. I never really knew if the notification alarms was time-based or location based. I suppose it had to be the latter in case of delays but then I’d never been in the driver’s seat. Of a train, that is. And there was little chance of me learning now in the state it was in. Or the state I was in. The 10:15 train to East Grinstead was a smoking ruin. When the alien invasion had picked up around Surrey, not long after its first attack on London, trains had begun flocking civilians to safe zones in the regional capitals and populated areas. East Grinstead wasn’t much but was malleable, police and armed forces had set up a defensive and were holding out. The trains were meant to be kept safe. The notices had come to every home and flat the day before the trains were due. There would be no time for the enemy to intercept and the tracks would be guarded and every point. SAS were on the way. But it seemed they were too late for this train. The first train. I knew it wasn’t a good idea. From nature programs and horror films, its always the one in front that’s picked off first. Then again, by the looks of the wreckage, none of the trains would be moving after this. The hunk of metal covering my chest weighed a tone. I had to crawl out, narrowly avoiding skinning my belly on the broken glass. My coat, hoodie and shirt had taken the worst of it but I was cut in more places than one. I hoped my head wasn’t one of them. It felt like it. The worst ache the side of my cranium had ever taken, pounding at my brain. I clutched at the hurting spot with my hand. It felt sticky. When I looked at my hand, I was holding a clump of dried blood and hair strands. I opened my mouth to talk but it hurt to move my tongue. I couldn’t stand it. I fell to the ground and retched, again and again. Dreading to open my eyes, I checked. Okay...no blood in the vomit. That was a good sign, at least. The first time I’d really been sick on the train. I don’t know how long it took for me to find my voice but I called out. My mum, my dad, my little brother. Anyone. There was nothing. Not even the birds were singing. As I stumbled again over the wreckage, trying hard not to look at the bodies for fear I’d find someone I knew, I saw something that gave me a spark of hope. Tire tracks. Lots of them. Too big to be cars. Jeeps. Evacuation. Word must have got out. My family must been packed into one. Must have thought I was dead, or the ones taking them did anyway. They couldn’t have gotten far. But then...where were all the guards at the train points. I was a few miles between home and the neighboring town. Hurst Green? No. I corrected myself in my head. Hurst Green was on the way to Oxted, it was Dormans...Dormansland between home and East Grinstead. My brother always went bike-riding with his friends here. It was a nice place. And it wasn’t that far to walk. As long as I stayed by the guard posts, I’d be fine. Or maybe they could save me the walk. It was chilly. Some of the frost still hadn’t melted on the hillside. But the guard had to be over them. Any further away and they would’ve missed the attack. I looked up. I was not happy to see smoke. I’d always hated the Duke of Edinburgh. The award that is, not the man. Can’t say I ever knew him. A school award program, hiking over the South Downs. I still had nightmares of it. Biting blisters, searing heat, every hill you managed to scale leading to three more, all the while carrying a sack on your back that weighed more than your telly. But it was one hill, I told myself. I was carrying a small bag on my back and a bigger one by my shoulder. To my surprise, I’d found them close by, pretty much intact. If any of the guard had broadband, maybe I could get in touch with my parents. I was nearly on my hands and knees by the time I’d reached the hilltop. As I raised my head, I felt myself getting much, much colder. Cold sweat ran down my brow. The guard post was a massacre. Police in navy and militia in khaki lay together in crimson, the green hillside of Dormans awash with blood and shrapnel. The turrets and missile carriers were in as many pieces as their controllers. My knees were shaking. My eyelids felt heavy. I felt ready to keel over and roll down the hillside unconscious. I forced myself onwards. It seemed like there was still strength in my legs. I mean, I was sure that even if this point had been lost, the next one wasn’t. The aliens were smart, to give them credit, they’d intercepted the train. But where they were now remained to be seen. I wasn’t far from Hurst Green. I just had to keep going until I found soldiers. But everywhere I went, there was just corpses. I went through the trees, I prefer them to hills and it felt safer. As I cleared a hedge, I cupped a hand over my mouth and nose as a truly foul stench hit me. I’d found myself in a cow-field. This was farmer’s territory after all but whoever the farmer was had just lost his hand in the dairy market. A whole herd of cows were lying dead, bits and pieces all over the grass. I was almost glad I’d thrown up in the train-wreck because I sure felt like doing it all over again. I decided to cut through that part of the journey. I’d take hills over outdoor slaughterhouses any day. I couldn’t tell how much time had passed, it was completely overcast and getting bleaker in the sky every minute...when I heard a scream. “Help!” It sounded young, almost like…my brother! I started to run into it’s direction and turned a corner, only to stop as there was another scream. Before I could blink, there it was. This hulking insectoid all spikes and teeth, screeching madly, scuttling down the hillside. I couldn’t see the boy directly, but he looked similar to my brother and I tried not to vomit as the alien drive its legs into his backs like spears, holding him in the air as he writhe and scream. Then the boy got dropped and the creature injected something into his chest, some kind of glowing ooze that enveloped him from the inside-out. I wanted to run, but was frozen in shock as the creature walked out of sight. Was that…my brother that had died before my eyes or a familiar looking person? I hadn’t time to think as a horrible groan made me flinch and I stated as the boy stood up, his skin was pale, the yes glowing red. I never thought undead could be real, or anything close to it for that matter. Them a female and male scream came behind the corner, followed by the same groan the boy had made. A man and a woman with the same red eyes and pale skin stumbled into view Again, I couldn’t recognize them fully, but they looked familiar to my parents. I wanted to look away, but couldn’t for some reason. I couldn’t tell how long I stared until they all started to bleed from the mouth and vomited blood, then collapsed. Nothing could have preferred me for what happened next. The boy started to twitch and it did burst, a smaller version of those creatures hatched from the body. It had a visually lighter color. Then the same happened with the other two bodies. A wave of monsters, coming right for me. You can’t get very far with two carrier bags. I don’t know why I thought I could. But one of them knocked me over, right head over heels and I landed badly. My legs felt feeble. All I could do was crawl. I was looking back the way I’ve come. Is this hell? And is there any way out. One of them was right above me. I managed to roll over and saw it looming above me, its snaggle-toothed mouth gnashing madly. I realized then and there, every word sinking into my head. I was going to die here, alone, afraid. I’d seen what they could do. And no-one would know. And I’d never know if they knew. Were any of them still alive? My mum? My dad? My brother? My friends? My girlfriend? Anyone I’d ever known? I don’t know if I screamed, my mind was too much of a storm to notice what my mouth was doing. All I remember is the Chryssalid above me and its mandibles closing in around my neck. I just shut my eyes. And when I heard gunfire, I kept them tightly closed. Noise and motion swept over me. I just wanted the nightmare, at least I hoped it was, to end. When I woke up, I couldn’t say my situation had improved vastly. The Chrysalids’s weren’t around, which was nice, but I certainly wasn’t home. I was on a thin, green bed, my bags underneath, my head and various other wounds were bandaged, and I seemed to be in a train tunnel. A crowded one. Wounded and sick littered a long, long row of beds. Those who weren’t lying in bed were armed. If World War III just happened, it certainly looked the part. “Oh my…I’m so sorry to hear this.” Dinky gave Toby a hug after he had finished. He patted her back with a weak smile. “It’s okay.” “Did…did you ever find out what happened to your family?” Edward asked in shock. The Specialist sighed. “No. The bodies were unable to be identified and the surrender of the government made it impossible to check any information what could have happened. I make myself hope they are still alive and out there somewhere. When ADVENT was created, I was moved to a City Center, believing the lie of peace in a broken state. Still, the screams haunted me in my dreams. Eventually, with the loss of everything, I went into depression, not knowing how to continue. Then, one day, ADVENT was about to take me to a clinic to help me, but I knew something was not right. So I took my chance and escaped when the transport got out the City Center, reaching a settlement where XCOM recruited me.” James then continued. “As for me, I was just 17 back then, in the middle of my vocational training, living in a small town.” His voice and expression were shaken too. “I was just coming home from work, my mother worked in the garden, my father just came back from work too and suddenly, those pods came down. I barely made it into the house as one landed into our garden and saw how both my parents got sucked in, screaming. In panic, I hid in the house, watching as the whole neighborhood suffered the same fate, getting encased in a verdigris green gel. I thought it was my end as the aliens arrived and abducted everyone. I was the only survivor back then, the screams never leaving my head, even with ADVENT and the new City Centers. Back then, I had trouble keeping up, wanting to quit a few times but my parents and Patch kept me going. But with my parents gone, my chances to finish my training were slim and I could not imagine how to life by myself. Still, I, like many others got accelerated education, to catch up with the Elders’ level of technology. The clinics even managed to heal my handicap I was born with, being limited with my left side. It took some time to adapt to my change. Yet, even with that, I suffered nightmares from the invasion. Eventually, like with Toby, I should be ‘healed’. I heard rumors that anyone who mentioned the past vanished, so I fled when I got the chance. I used to be an Archer in the local gun club before the invasion, that’s why I am a sniper. Ironically, I and Patch got to first see each other face to face in XCOM, and are best friends ever since, together with Kyle. The Avenger is our family now.” He smiled at the two who returned it. “Say, are you fans of us too?” Dinky asked, “Kyle told me about the show.” “Uh, yes, what makes you think that?” Toby asked in surprise. “Well, your nickname is Patch, similar to a pony back home called Purple Patch, your GREMLIN is colored like him.” She replied with a slight smile. “Uh, yes, Kyle told us about you in return, and yes we are.” Toby looked down, apparently feeling ashamed. “Actually, I am the creator of Purple Patch, naming myself as a tribute, Me and Jessie got to know each other on a fan website.” And me, I created you, Fletcher Fray.” The German admitted, also a bit ashamed. The green unicorn smiled warmly. “I know, and I feel honored to meet you.” The reaction of the middle-aged man was one of surprise, forming a weak smile. “The pleasure is mine.” “Attention, Captain Günther, Lieutenant Schaeffer, Sergeant Spring and Eternal Knights, please report to the hanger.” Central’s voice echoed through the PA system. “You go ahead, we join you shortly.” Toby suggested and the other nodded without protest, Rosie, Edward and Dinky followed them, leaving the two men alone. “Can you imagine they are real? We only thought about them back then.” The Brit said fascinated. “Yeah, I couldn’t believe it myself. In that case, It’s actually good that you made Domino missing. Because…you know. And I don’t want to think of Mr. S., if you know who I mean.” James pointed out, making Patch chuckle nervously. “Yeah, although he might be a powerful ally, yet would burn everything that looks slightly ADVENT. And Domino, I agree, of all ponies, I would rather…You know what? Best we just drop this, all right?” “Sure.” And with that, they moved towards the hanger. Author's Note What a Twist. Chapter 6 Blacksite horrorChapter 6: Blacksite Horror At the hanger, everyone reported to Bradford. “Squad assembled, sir.” Jane saluted him. “At ease. We got the location of the ADVENT Blacksite. We will arrive shorty, so gear up.” “Can I be of assistance?” Dinky asked, getting everyone’s attention. Broadford smiled. “I appreciate your helpfulness, Dinky, but let our experienced soldiers handle this. It would be too dangerous for you in the field.” “Who said I have to be in the field? Those GREMINs, I could remotely control one for support.” She suggested, surprising everyone. The Central officer thought about it. “Actually, it does sound like a good idea. Let’s talk with Shen about it.” The woman listened with interest to the idea. “This should be no problem and takes only a short time. What color would you like?” Shen asked. “Light grey and sandy-yellow, please.” “Okay.” While she worked on it, she told Dinky about the two previous missions the Knights had undertaken. “I’m sorry to hear about your father,” Dinky said with sympathy. “It’s okay. Actually, his work couldn’t come in handy at a better time. As Heavy must rest, the commander thought the SPARK could take his place until he’s recovered. I, with the commander’s permission, I used Julian as the Al to operate the SPARK.” She turned to the robot, standing next to her. “Join the squad.” “I’ll comply,” Julian said in an annoyed tone and walked out of the lab. Dinky looked with fear after him before Shen said in a calming tone, “Don’t worry, I removed his higher-level reasoning, so he’s forced to be loyal and compliant. “O-okay,” Dinky replied with unease as she took her GREMLIN that resembled her mother in color and the remote control, walking back to the hanger, noticing that Midnight walked past her, into the lab. “You wanted to see me?” The stallion asked Lily. “Yes. We found out that ADVENT uses a psionic network to coordinate troops. We need direct access by hacking a live officer.” “How’s that?” Midnight asked, raising an eyebrow. “With this.” Shen grabbed what appeared to be a claw attached to a metal bracelet. “It’s called Skulljack. In the simplest of terms, it's a physical interface designed to access the chip implanted in the ADVENT forces' skulls, applied using directed blunt force.” “Uh-huh. I will not disappoint you.” He equipped it and walked back to join the others. The squad consisted of the Knights, Dinky, the SPARK, Kyle, Jane and Bianca as they stepped into the Skyranger. Our contacts in the local resistance have shown us how to access the ADVENT Blacksite. The aliens worked hard to keep this place under the radar, and we don’t know what we’re gonna find here. Keep your heads up, expect heavy opposition.” Central informed as the squad rappelled down in a snowy forest area in New Antarctica, the Blacksite was just in front of them. Dinky stayed on the Skyranger, the signal was strong enough to cover the entire site with her GREMLIN. “We’ve confirmed the Blacksite is in your immediate vicinity. Infiltrate and investigate the area. Expect heavy resistance, neutralize all hostile contacts.” Bradford added. The Blacksite looked like a normal Factory from the outside, but it had an intimidating aura and all knew whatever was inside could not be good, as Dinky performed a scan. “Two enemies up ahead.” “Are we rushing in? Or are we going sneaky-beaky like?” Patch asked as he cocked his Bow Caster. “Visually concealed but still noisy,” Julian commented as he and the other carefully advanced, stopping behind a barrier as they saw a Stun Lancer and a Viper with a yellow skin patrolled the street to their right. “Without the introduction of human DNA, these creatures once operating under the guise of ‘Thin Men’ now show their true from, a pure reptilian species,” Tygan commented at the sight. “No reason for them to hide, the aliens don’t need an infiltration unit anymore,” Bradford replied. Midnight aimed at the Stun Lancer and pulled the trigger, the trooper fell backward with a scream to the ground, a puddle of blood forming on the ground. This alerted the Viper, who hissed, then moved to the other side of the road to flank them, but Wolf saw this and fired her Shard gun, eliminating the Viper as it let out a cry of pain and feel dead to the ground. Dinky scouted ahead and saw what looked like a yard with small, green glowing containers, shocked at what she saw was inside. “Oh my…” The others share her reaction as Lily said, “Hold on! Are those…?!” “Bodies.” Central muttered in disbelief, “The containers, the trains…this entire facility…the aliens are still abducting people. From the looks of it, they may have never stopped after the invasion.” “Those containers look like they have self-contained power cells, it could be some kind of stasis system. It’s possible at least some of those people might be still alive.” Shen suspected. “That’s disturbing,” Wolf said as they moved up, spotting another Viper with two Stun Lancers at the entrance and a fully functional turret on the roof. “Stay clear of those turrets, we’re still not sure if they’re fully automated or remotely triggered,” Lily warned and James aimed at the turret. Confidently he pulled the trigger and said,” There’s no way I…” His shot went under the turret, hitting the building instead of the turret. “Miss?” Next time I get-“ He never finished as the building creaked and the part where the turret was on collapsed, destroying it. “Okay…” The Viper then used its tongue to pull Jane towards her and bonded her, she struggled. “Let go!” The Lancers took position to the left and right of the alien, firing at Bianca and Fletcher, yet missed as they ducked behind their cover. “Our turn!” Fletcher yelled as he and the woman drew their pistols and returned fire, scoring headshots. “Hold on, Sunny!” Abstraction called out as he climbed up a ladder that led to a balcony, having a clear shot on the Viper. He fired and the alien cried in pain, letting go of Jane. She in return rammed her blade into the Viper’s chest, killing it. “You want some more?” “Watch out, ADVENT to your right!” The filly warned as an officer together with a trooper moved in from the same direction the first Viper and Stun Lancer had come from. Patch aimed at the trooper and fired, the soldier got thrown backward by the hit as he died, the Captain moved to jump on a parked train for cover. Midnight saw this as his chance and used his blood magic to teleport next to the officer. “This might sting a bit!” He uses his left foreleg to shove the officer’s rifle away then rammed the Skulljack into his jaw, lifting him up and killing him instantly as he hacked into the network. “We have complete access to the ADVENT psionic network; I have dedicated our systems to processing the new data, but we will need to work fast- it is only matter of time before they detect our intrusion,” Tygan said as the stallion dropped the body. “We’re good to go!” Suddenly, a purple glow appeared on the street the squad had come from, glowing brighter and brighter. As if faded, they all see what appeared to be a human female with completely golden skin, with a featureless face save for a pair of glowing, white eyes, and a black, smoke-like substance flowing out of its head resembling hair. The body was a state of continuous flux, constantly appearing and disappearing on the spot, and sometimes creating short-lived, translucent after-images of itself beside it. “Commander, that appears to be the ‘Codex’ responsible for guarding the alien data stores. We’ll have to neutralize it if we intend to recover the data.” Tygan informed. “Understood. Weapons, hot, we got our target.” Central replied. “Let's have it, lads!” Patch reloaded his weapon and Julian fired, but the shot hit the wall next to it instead. “Missed? MISSED?!?!?! I'LL RIP YOUR DAMN HEA-“ Midnight took the shot then and scored a direct hit but what happened next surprised even him. The Codex teleported on the roof of the facility, leaving what appeared to be a clone at its original location. “I’ve never seen anything like this – the Codex is projecting multiple copies of itself into our dimension!” The scientist was fascinated and the squad realized this could be a big problem. Fletcher fired with his rifle at the Clone, it stumbled from the hit before starting to hold its head and disintegrated. The original held it hands outwards towards him and Bianca, casting a psionic rift and both snipers felt their rifles were suddenly lighter. They moved out of the right quickly and reloaded, just seconds before the lift exploded. Midnight fired on the Codex again, then threw his boomerang towards the balcony Kyle was and his prediction was right. The codex was about to appear behind a wall next to Kyle to flank him, but the boomerang gave it the rest, leaving only the head with the brain on the ground after it. Wolf took off into the air to deal with the clone, dodging its fire. “Is that all you got?” She taunted as he threw one of her knives and killed it. The two Knights, together with Kyle, Patch, Jane, and Julian took position at the entrance as Dinky scanned the facility. “Two hostiles inside.” Patch opened the door and stared at a shocking sight. Humans in Containers were lowered into green liquid, causing Tygan to comment, “So many victims, processed with such brutal efficiency. Test subjects for some sort of weapons perhaps?” “That looks more like a refinery for me, doctor.” Lily pointed out. “Once we get our hands in that sample, we’ll know for sure,” Bradford added as a vile in a pedestal was on the other side of the facility. Wolf barely stepped in and spotted two MECs up ahead. Their body was similar to the SPARK but in glistening white and an arrow formed head, armed with a variant of the Magnetic Rifle that was monstrously large in size. “This is an extremely well equipped mechanized unit. We’ll need to look for vulnerabilities if we’re going to take that thing out.” Shen commented as what appeared to be an automatic grenade launcher opened on the back and fired, everyone braced for the explosions. The wall provided some protection but Midnight, Kyle, Patch, Jane felt still the splinters hitting them and their ears ringing. “Alright, that hurt!” The stallion said before Dinky flew her drone to each of them and healed them. “Thanks.” “You’re welcome.” The filly replied on the radio as Julian fired on the MEC, the robot stumbled and sparked from the hit but was still standing. “Armor down!” He announced and Jane finished it off with a well-aimed shot. Patch looked at the other and got an idea. “Take this!” He raised his hands above his head and sent a spiral of psionic energy towards the other MEC and it exploded. “Used its own grenades against him.” Midnight then moved towards the sample, looking at it in awe. “Guessing that’s not water. Shen, any readings?” Bradford asked as the sample had a yellow liquid in it. “No signs of radioactivity, no significant energy signature of any kind. Whatever it is, it’s safe to handle. ”Assured by her answer, the grey pony put it into his saddlebag. “We confirmed acquisition of the sample, move to rendezvous at the extraction point,” Central advised. The extraction tone was on the other side of the facility and everyone moved toward it but Dinky had bad news. “Enemy transport!” Just as she had said this, said transport dropped an officer, trooper and Stun Lancer at the EVAC point, the officer pointed at Wolf and both soldiers moved out with him. “Why always me?” The Pegasus complained as the trooper fired, but missed her and hit the ground next to her, the Stun Lancer charged forward, she barely managed to block his strike with her knives and pushed him back, slicing his throat. The trooper was about to take aim again, before he got hit into the head by Fletcher’s rifle, the officer got flanked by Midnight who teleported next to him and swung his blade through his chest. The Captain clutched his wound as he fell dead to the ground. They all them moved towards and evacuated. “Mission accomplished, Commander. We just hit ADVENT where it hurts the most. This was a place no living human being was ever intended to see. Happy as I am to see it gone, something tells me the aliens won’t take this lying down.” Central said happily on the radio as the Skyranger returned back to base. “You did great, Dinky.” Patch ruffled her mane, she giggled in response. Upon arrival, Midnight gave the sample to Tygan, then meet up in the bar to relax with the others. Dinky and Edward drank lemonade, Patch and Rosie tea, while all others enjoyed some alcohol-free beer to be an example for the children. “That went very well, don’t you think?” Jane asked Fletcher who nodded. “Yes, though I wonder what in that vile is, it can’t be good.” He said with unease in his voice. “I agree but for now, let’s celebrate. How about a round of ADVENT Burgers?” “ADVENT Burgers?” Wolf asked confused. “Yes, a fast food item made by ADVENT and very popular, even amongst XCOM personnel. We got some after the UFO supply raid, give it a try, they have also a vegetarian variant.” The Barkeeper give the ponies said burgers and they all took a bite. Dinky’s eyes slowly went big at the taste of the burger. “That is…delicious!” “Yeah, it tastes pretty great,” Midnight added as he took another bite. “Yep. Just be careful around Bradford when eating them.” The woman warned. “Why?” The filly asked and she got her answer as she saw Bradford walking past the bar with a wrapper in his hand. “I don’t know where people are getting those damn ADVENT burgers, but if I find another wrapper stuffed under one of the command consoles, there’s going hell to pay.” He mumbled with an annoyed voice. The others chuckled nervously as he walked past. “See what I mean?” Jane asked and the filly nodded. Kyle then with a few others started to perform a song. While it sounded strange at first, it was rather enjoyable for the ponies, dancing with the humans to it. That’s actually a good song.” Dinky commented with a smile. “Yes. A German song from the 80s, beautiful.” James replied grinning. “Yep. Reminds me, I discovered this on a supply raid some time ago.” Patch said and held up a disc, putting it into a disk player. Once it started, the ponies looked at in awe at it. It showed a bar with a stage, a charcoal-coated unicorn with streaks of red and gold in her white mane stood it and started to sing a jazz song about being in Cloudsdale, never able to fly like the Pegasus. Halfway through, a holographic Vinyl Scratch appeared and the song changed into an 80 version of it, becoming quite more action full. “It was well made and sounded quite beautiful.” Midnight said after it ended. “Yeah, back in the days the fandom, there were many talented creators and animators,” Kyle said with a hint of sadness in his voice. They then all left to do other tasks or to relax in their living quarters, while Wolf stayed back to help with the cleaning. During her work, she heard the same song from the video in the background and couldn’t help but smile, bopping her head before she held the broom like a microphone and started to sing. “Oh and watch where you're flyin', I hear when you splat it gets real nasty To hell with your flapping, all your wings will need wrapping While we all die happy Never bein' fly like you.” She leaned back and lost her balance falling over. “Never knew you could sing so well, Wolf.” Midnight’s voice sounded in her ears and the mare blushed in embarrassment as she saw him, Fletcher, Dinky, Patch, Kyle, James, Rosie and Edward at the entrance, all had impressed expressions. “How much have you seen?” The blue Pegasus asked, lowering her head. “Pretty much everything. You really have a wonderful singing voice.” Fletcher complimented her. “T-thanks...” She replied surprising, noticing that Dinky whispered something into Edward’s ear and he walked up to her. “I always wanted to try this.” He smiled. “And what?” Wolf asked in return. “Boop.” The boy bopped her nose with his hand, and she started to grin. “Come here, you little rascal!” With that, White Wolf chased the boy and filly across the room with a giggle before she caught them and tickled them without mercy, both laughed uncontrollably for a few minutes, the others just smiled. After being granted mercy and able to catch their breath, both children looked at each other, then at Wolf with mischievous grins. “Oh no…” The mare mumbled and both kids rammed into her and tickled her and she laughed, unable to contain it. As they let her catch her breath, Fletcher asked Midnight, “Are you ticklish?” “Not a chance, I was trained against tickling torture.” He said proudly before his fellow knights looked at him with mischievous grins and Wolf opened a wing, with Fletcher plugging a feather. “Oh really?” He said with a grin and closed on Midnight who backed up until trapped in a corner. Grinning as the feather touched him, then broke out in laughter himself. “Nothing better than a good laugh,” Rosie commented before her son started to yawn. Let’s hit the hay.” They both went towards the living quarters with all others save for Dinky, the Knights, Kyle, Patch and James. “You should get some sleep too, Dinky,” Wolf suggested but the filly shook her head. “But I’m not tired.” She protested. In response, the mare gently grabbed her by the scruff and carried her towards their living quarter. “No, there you go to bed now.” Fletcher and Midnight followed them. “It’s nice to see how they care for her,” Kyle commented with a smile. “Indeed. Say, Toby, what got you the idea for Domino’s personality?” The German asked. The Brit shrugged. “Can’t remember and I think it’s better if it stays that way.” “Yeah.” They then went to bed themselves, sharing their living quarter with the ponies, having to smile as Fletcher was sleeping on a bed, hugged by Dinky in her sleep, Wolf slept on the ground on a make-shift bed, Midnight upside down from an overhang. “Cute,” Jessie whispered and Patch replied quietly, “Righto,” Before they went into their own beds. The weeks passed until it was late April, not much was going on since the Blacksite. Dinky awoke with a yawn, seeing that Günther and Fletcher were playing darts. “Good morning!” She greeted both with a smile. “Morning, Dinky.” James greeted back before she walked towards the bar for breakfast, hearing Fletcher mumble, “Good that Nanny never had a sibling…” Upon arriving, she saw Midnight breakfasting, appearing to have toast, while Edward asked White Wolf, “Can I scratch your ear?” “No.” She replied stern. “Please.” The boy asked in a pleading voice. “I'm not a pet.” “Pleeeeeaaaaaaaa-“ The young human gave her puppy eyes. “Okay! Fine...just...Let's just get this over with.” The mare replied in defeat and craned down “Yay!” Edward cheered and scratched her behind the ear. Wolf made a strange noise between a purr and a growl and shook her head in affection. Edward stopped and both stared at each other perplexed, Midnight seemed oblivious to the scene as he didn’t even react, focused on his breakfast. “You did not just see that,” Wolf said to the boy who nodded, Dinky suppressed a giggle before Patch walked in. “I hope I don’t bother, but we got a new recruit, we shall take him on a supply raid.” He explained, Dinky, Wolf and Midnight nodded, following to the Armory to meet the recruit. As they arrived, Dinky couldn’t believe her eyes. It was a woman with brown hair styled into a soft, face-framing look with blue eyes, the face was broad and a wide chin, her armor was colored dark orange. What made her knew who that human was, was how her hair was how short her hair was. “D-Dinky?” The human asked in confusion and Dinky started to grin. “Lena!” She ran into the woman for a hug. “I missed you!” “Me too…I feared the worst after ADVENT took you. I’m so sorry that I couldn’t protect you.” Lena said with regret and guilt in her voice, her head lowered. “Don’t be, you did what you could. May I introduce you to the Eternal Knights?” She pointed to the three ponies. “I’m Midnight Blade, this is White Wolf and Fletcher Fray. We are all grateful for that you and your husband helped Dinky.” The grey stallion said, then the other introduced themselves and told how Dinky got saved. “I owe you one.” The woman said with gratefulness in her voice, but Dinky replied, “They did only what was right and their job. Why are you here?” She was curious and Lena took a deep breath. “Well, after ADVENT took Lukas and you, I became depressed how this could happen to me. Yet I didn’t want that they would take me too, so I ran.” “We all have a common cause. Just keep your head down and follow me and you will be fine.” Patch said as he, James, Dinky, Lena and the Knights went to the Skyranger and stepped in. “One of our contacts in the resistance tipped us to an ADVENT transport they managed to disable when it passed through as part of a larger convoy. ADVENT security forces are already moving to gather their assets, but we’ve got a shot at finding something valuable here. We’ll have to secure the area, recover the item, and eliminate any enemy resistance.” Central briefed the squad on the way. Upon arrival they rappelled down, finding themselves in a rainy forest area of the east coast of the USA. “Menace 1-5, the disabled ADVENT convoy is just ahead, engage and eliminate all hostile forces.” “Let's make this right as rain.” Patch cried out, “Literally.” He added at the weather as they moved out. Lena was nervous, slightly trembling as Dinky’s GREMLIN was flying next to her. “You can do this!” The filly encouraged her on the radio, causing her to smile weakly. The foal got insight of the transport on a road, seeing a truck standing on the road, a crashed squad car in front of it, guarded by an ADVENT Captain and two Stun lancers, a Sectoid and something they had not seen before. It resembled a human in body form, muscular but the skin was red with a hunched back, the head was big and oval formed, the mouth covered at what looked like a gasmask, only tiny, deep-set vicious-looking, yellow eyes were visible. “These Mutons seem a little more agile than the ones we fought in the past; it looks like they’re still serving as the aliens’ front line unit though,” Bradford commented at the sight. Fletcher aimed at the officer and fired, the shot went right through the head, throwing the Captain against a tree. In response, the Stun Lancers took position at the truck, the Muton cocked his green-glowing rifle and fired at Lena, who took cover behind a tree, suppressing her. “I’m pinned down!” she yelled as green glowing beams missed her by inches. She barely could prepare herself as the Sectoid used his psionic powers and a purple beam went towards her and she felt immense pain in her head. “Get out of my head!” She yelled. The others watched as she suddenly started to turn towards them with a blank expression, a purple glow around her, leading to the Sectoid. “She’s mind controlled!” Patch figured out. “Not for long!” Wolf charged toward the Muton, her blade ready and swung it at him, yet was not prepared for his response. He raised his left arm, effectively blocking it, then punched her into the chest, she got thrown back, stunned. “Watch out!” James yelled as the Muton raised his weapon, a bayonet was attached to it, preparing to execute the Pegasus. Wolf‘s vision was blurry, she barely saw the threat yet managed to get back to her senses just in time, using her knives to block the finishing move. “Ooh, you think you're clever, do ya?!” She then shoved the Alien back, slicing it across the neck, before magnetic shoots buzzed in her ears, seeing that Lena had missed her by inches. Midnight then stormed towards the Sectoid who fired his arm blaster at him, yet missed too before the bat pony rammed his Arc Blade into the alien’s chest, killing it instantly. “What…happened?” The woman held her head in pain as she was free again. Yet, she recovered quickly as she saw one of the Lancers coming for her, quickly taking aim and fired at him, the shot went right through his chest and he fell head-first to the ground. She breathed heavily at her first kill, her heart racing at what she had just done. “Nice shot!” James complimented her on the radio. “Another Muton!” Fray yelled as said alien came out of nowhere from the right, throwing what appeared to a grenade at the two snipers, blinking green. Both dived out of their way before it exploded, destroying a tree, blowing it to pieces. Realizing she was standing in the open, Wolf attempted to run for cover, before she felt great pain in her chest and fell to the ground with a scream. She tried to stand up, but the pain was too great, seeing out of the corner of her eye that the second Muton had been hit her. The others were behind cover, shooting at the last Stun Lancer and Muton without much success of hitting them. Suddenly, she felt how someone grabbed her by her forelegs and dragged her towards a stone wall. “I got you!” Patch yelled as he got her behind cover, crouched down and fired his revolver as Dinky’s GREMLIN hovered over Wolf and released the cold blue vapor. “There you go, Auntie!” “Thanks.” The mare got up and drew her sidearm, resuming fighting. Lena took aim at the second Muton and firing again, the shot connected with the head, killing it as green blood splattered from it. James looked at the other Stun Lancer who stayed in cover, but his head was slightly exposed. Enough for him, He took aim and fired, the bullet went right through the helmet and the Lancer stumbled before falling dead to the ground. “Target down!” The squad then moved closer as Dinky yelled, “Wait! Got a Viper and MEC up ahead!” In the moment she had said this, both stepped into view. Midnight decided to use his psionic powers, hitting the ground with his Psi-Amp, what happened next surprised him. Several groans greeted their ears, seeing the ADVENT soldiers rising, a purple glow emitted from them, leading back to Midnight. “I can do…that?!” He asked in shock. “Oh well, let’s make the most of it.” And pointed at the two hostiles. The zombies moved in a slow, stumbling manner towards the Viper and MEC, drawing their fire, serving as meat shields and giving the distraction they needed. “Mother nature calls!” Wolf slammed a hoof into the ground and summoned a vine that immobilized the Viper and Patch fired his Bow Caster, scoring a direct headshot between the eyes as blood splattered. “Bullseye!” The mare then used her storm magic to shock the robot, he twitched as his systems malfunctioned, Midnight then charged forwards, cutting right through the middle of the MEC with his own Blade, destroying it as it fell smoking to the ground. “Status confirmed, all hostiles are down and the area is secure,” Central announced. “Easy peasy, lemon squeezy!” Patch cheered before they proceeded to load the supplies into the Skyranger, Wolf and Midnight inspected the bodies of the Mutons. The stallion found what looked like a rubber grip, Wolf what appeared to be a foregrip for her Shard gun. “You found yourselves a hair trigger and repeater, nice!” Jessie smiled happily. “Both make your shots more precise.” “Good to know.” Midnight commented and noticed that the German man had accidentally his laser sight turned on, pointed at the ground. Once he moved, the Pegasus tried to catch it in a play delusional, causing both men to laugh. Wolf after realizing what she just did blush. Damn animal instincts! Nevertheless, they boarded the transport and got back to the Avenger. “You did well for your first mission, Rookie,” Central said with pride. “You are promoted to Squaddie, and given your set of skills, you are to be designated a Specialist, and will report to Engineer Chen to pick up your GREMLIN.” Lena saluted, feeling honored. “Thank you, sir!” The others also smiled with pride at her. It was quiet for the rest of the day and it slowly became evening, Lena tucked Dinky in. “Goodnight, Dinky.” “Goodnight, Lena.” The filly said and the woman turned to leave as she heard the young voice again. “Wait. Can you stay with me? You remind me of my mother.” She asked with a hoping expression. “Of course, my dear.” Wolf checked on Dinky as Fletcher and Midnight were busy helping in an Autopsy, her heart melted at the sight. Dinky hugged Lena in her sleep, both slept with smiles. “You really enjoy her company, don't you?” Jane asked quietly. “Yeah, her company is quite pleasant. Reminds when I took care of the young deer, enjoying it to the fullest to be their caretaker.” Wolf smiled at the memories. “With those two handsome stallions, you could make it come true.” “Yeah…” Wolf replied distracted. Then she realized what the Ranger meant. “HEY!” The woman stayed calm. “Just kidding, you can call yourself lucky to have such handsome stallions by our side.” Wolf rolled her eyes. “Meh...They're okay, I guess. What's your point?” Jane sighed. “That you can be happy to have such good friends. Why do you think did I that with the towel?” It clicked in Wolf’s head. “You had a lover?” “Yes. We are engaged, but sadly, he died as we tried to flee from ADVENT. I deal with the pain by having fun and I admit, we’re both were quietly playful.” Jane lowered her head. “I’m sorry to hear that.” The mare said with a weak smile. “It’s fine. Actually, I wanted to ask if you can give me advice. Between you and me, I think Kyle's pretty...you know...interesting.” The French blushed. Wolf got what she meant. “Well, my best advice is do your best to be the best when you're both in battle. I mean, you did pretty well today so keep at it and who knows? It's always helped me when I was looking for something's affections.” Jane’s expression became surprised. “Really? You mean with...” The mare waved a hoof. “No, no, no. Look, Midnight and Fletcher, we're just workmates, professional-like. But when you've been travelling as much as we have you...pick up a few here and there.” In response, Jane raises an eyebrow. “Oh really?” “Helped me a lot in Digna. And I'd say whatever worked with tiger-stripe sphinx queens would work with humans...Though maybe not so much biting...and clawing...and whipping...unless that's your thing, and I won't judge you if it is.” The woman became confused at what she heard. “Sorry, did you say sphinx or...” “Yeah, sphinx. As in lion legs, ox tail, eagle wings, heavy eyeshadow, likes riddles...What did you think I said?” she demanded to know with a stern expression. “Nothing.” The human replied calmly. “Now, don’t get me wrong, but if I was a pony, I think both Midnight and Fletcher are very handsome. And no, I’m not a zoophilic. I just thought…” Again, the mare held up a hoof. “It’s fine. We all actually got attention from others, but we dealt with it.” “Makes sense. Actually, you remind me of my mother. She was a fighter, similar to yours, I got the business idea from her. I apologize if it’s too personal, but I hope heat isn’t a problem.” “Trust me, we have our ways.” “Still, better not drink too much.” The woman pointed out. “We don’t get drunk fast.” “Still, I guess if you had offspring, it would look cute.” Jane chuckled. “Sorry, just slipped out.” Now, Wolf blushed. “I…guess it would…” She quickly caught herself. “Look, it just wouldn't feel right. I mean, getting it on with Fletcher would feel like doing it with my little brother...And getting it on with Midnight would feel like doing it with my grandpa!” “Seriously?” The woman raised an eyebrow in confusion. “Batponies. They don't age. He's taken care of me since I was a filly, when I first started living with ponies. He's my mentor, essentially like a second father-figure. Seeing him as more than that, it just wouldn't work.” “Best we drop this, d'accord?” The French woman suggested and Wolf nodded. The next day, Central had a message for Dinky, Edward and Rosie. “We are nearing a settlement near Atlanta, you will be safe there.” The filly understood, she wanted to help but she might be safer that way. “Okay. Be careful out there, uncles and Aunt.” She gave Fletcher a hug. “Of course I will, Dinky.” “Stay alive, Toby.” Rosie gave the Specialist a friendly hug, her son did too. “Don’t worry, I’ll be fine.” He replied before the three with Jane went into the Skyranger. The flight was very calm and pleasant, the settlement was also a Shady town, looking almost identical to their old home. “There you go, see you.” The Ranger said goodbye. Dinky, Edward and Rosie walked towards it and an elderly woman with grey hair and green eyes greeted them, appearing to be in her sixties. She was thin, about 1,80 meters high. “Hello, you are the new residents Central mentioned? I am Jan Schaeffer.” Jan? Wasn’t that the name of Kyle’s mother? Dinky thought but decided to wait with asking as they got led into a house. “Serve yourselves, I have tee and biscuits.” Jan offered and their guests accepted. “Would you like to tell me about you?” “I’m Rosie Brown, my son Edward and our friend Dinky Hooves.” “Nice names your son and friend has.” Jan smiled before Dinky said, “Mrs. Schaeffer, I think I may know your son.” The woman’s expression became confused. “You…do?” “Yes, in fact, he saved me.” With that, she told her how where she was from, how she landed here and how Kyle had helped here. Jan smiled with pride. “So he’s still alive, and with XCOM. I really feared the worst after the invasion and 20 years of not knowing anything about him.” “You witnessed the invasion?” Edward asked, although her age made it obvious. “Yes. After I fled, I did freelance work to make a living and following my dream of cooking…” She said with a shaking voice as she remembered. It was a beautiful day in spring 2015, Jan helping out at a diner, enjoying her work. “There you go, have a nice day!” She said to the last customer for the day and prepared to close the diner, looking at a picture of her son she had taken with her. “Kyle…I miss you…” She said with tears, hoping he was okay. She really wished she could have taken him with her back then. He was everything she had left after her husband had died. There was no night where she did not dream of him, even after all those years. Every day she prayed Kyle could forgive her and she would see him again one day. She came from a working- to middle-class family, and spent a lot of her free time reading fiction novels, but since she left her son behind, even that didn’t help to get over it. Also since she got beaten by her second husband, she had become fairly timid around other people, not always knowing what to say or do, afraid of other men, not wanting to experience the pain again. Suddenly, there was a loud bang and a strong force threw her over. Her ears were ringing, her vision blurry as she faintly saw fire in the diner and an object in the middle of it, not able to see it fully, but could make out a green glowing color. “W-what is t-that?” Before she could react, green gas sprayed from it and she screamed as she got pulled towards it, everything became black. Jan couldn’t tell how long she was out before a faint beeping sound echoed in her ears. Her vision was still blurry as she opened her eyes, seeing nothing but white. Blinking, everything became slowly clear and she found herself in a hospital room. She groaned in pain as a doctor came in. “You are awake, good.” “W-what happened?” Jan asked with a dry voice. The man took a deep breath. “It is hard to tell but you were almost victim of an alien abduction, hadn’t been for the quick responding military forces.” Jan couldn’t believe what she just heard. “A-Aliens?” “You mean...you don't know?” “Oh my…you were very lucky back then.” Rosie said in shock. “Yes, I owe XCOM my life.” The elderly woman replied. “How did you get here?” Dinky wanted to know and Jan sighed again. “During the invasion, I prayed my son would survive it. After the surrender, I started to believe the lie of peace in my desperation for my son. As cooking was my passion, I wanted to continue my work. But with ADVENT, a new area of restrictions and bans was created. There were still some independent businesses out there trying to survive the occupation back then. In a few areas, things seemed almost normal, but ADVENT wasn't having it. Constantly changing restrictions on ‘unauthorized’ food sources made it almost impossible not to move to the new City Centers. So I had to give up my dream at first.” She started to smile weakly. “Yet, in the City Center, I opened a small restaurant and made some friends. But after they had to visit the gene clinics, and never returned, I got suspicious. Eventually, ADVENT arrested me for selling illegal food, although I keep everything under the law. As they took me away, the transport got ambushed by resistance fighters and I live in their settlement ever since.” “Sorry to hear that. Did you make the biscuits yourself?” Dinky asked and the woman nodded. “Glad you like them, sweetie.” “Alert!” A voice yelled and they all looked into the sky in fear, seeing ADVENT transport in the sly, closing in. “Take cover!” Another voice yelled and the group started to run. Dinky saw how the Resistance Soldiers that guarded the settlement tried to defend it, but as they only had conventional assault rifles, they had no chance all against the aliens and ADVENT, riddled with gunfire, falling in their dozens in mere moments. Then something exploded near her and she found herself thrown against a wall, screaming in pain. Dinky grunted, her vision blurry as she tried to get up. As her vision cleared, she saw a civilian in front of her, unbothered by the chaos. “Run! Get to cover!” She yelled but what happened next frightened her. The human started to twitch and liquid leaked out of it’s body and suddenly bursted and a unnaturally tall alien, made up of a pale gelatinous fluid with glowing red eyes hatched from the body. It stared at her, but she was frozen, unable to move. It’s claws looked very sharp. Then a loud shot ringed in her ears and the alien turned halfway backwards but corrected itself and turned around, facing it’s attacker. “Hey! Ugly!” Kyle’s voice sounded in her ears and she saw him looking at the creature with an angry expression. “Take this!” He yelled as it charged forward him and he fired at the head, blood splattered and it fell dead to the ground. The filly barely could recover as a hissing sound greeted her ears and she turned around in horror. The hissing came from a gas tank near her and ad ADVENT trooper that looked also at it in horror before it exploded and both got thrown to the ground. The filly groaned in pain as she got up and her eyes went wide in fear. “HELP!” She screamed as she was trapped in a wave of flames. The ADVENT trooper held it head as it ringed, slowly getting up. As it cleared, he noticed that he could no longer hear his allied troopers or commanding officer. Instead, he faintly heard a scream, seeing flashing imagines of a facility and a body being surgically changed. Then she saw a little unicorn next to him. Somehow, it was familiar to him. Then he noticed the flames and her look of terror, looking frantically for a way out. Kyle after seeing the flames and hearing the child’s cry for help, became horrified. “We must help her! Look for a way to put out the flames!” “Guys! Look!” One of his comrades called out and he couldn’t believe what he saw. Out of the flames walked an ADVENT trooper, carrying the filly on his arms. The unicorn’s expression was one of terror, not noticing her rescue as the trooper gently dropped her before Kyle. Dinky breathed heavily as he crouched down to her. “Are you hurt?” “I’m f-fine.” She replied still shaken, trying to calm down as she saw how James, Patch and the Knights were with him, having defeated the enemy force and prepared the survivors for evacuation. “K-Kyle? Is that really you?” She heard the voice of the elderly woman behind her, and Kyle’s expression became surprised. “Mum?” He replied and they both hugged each other with tears of joy. “I missed you!” The foal and the others looked at the two with smiles happy for them to be reunited, yet Dinky couldn’t see Edward or Rosie anywhere. She looked around, afraid of what might have happened to them. She looked around the bodies, none of them resembled Rosie, making her hope they had survived. Dinky then spotted Edward in the distance, making her smile weakly before he disappeared behind a wall and she was about to follow him before… “MAMA!” Chapter 7 DiscoveryChapter 7: Discovery Dinky dreaded to imagine what had happened, fearing the worst a she looked around the corner, her heart was breaking at the sight and she was filled with grief. The young boy was kneeled over a dead woman, lying in a puddle of blood, there was nothing that could hint how she had died. “Mommy…” Edward cried. While shocked herself, Dinky wasted to time to get over him and hugged him in an attempt to comfort him. The filly saw out of the corner of her eye how The Knights and XCOM operatives had their heads lowered, Patch made a cross gesture, a sign of respect, the ponies recognized. “Shh, I’m here, Edward…” Dinky whispered and the boy looked slowly up with tear filled eyes. “She’s dead…” Toby walked towards him, his expression was one of sympathy. “I’m so sorry, Edward. She was a good mother and a good friend.” He took the crying boy on his arm and patted his back as he walked towards the Skyranger. Dinky then noticed how the other held one ADVENT trooper at gunpoint, he held his hands up in surrender, looking strangely at her. He tried to say something in his alien language, becoming distorted and suddenly… “D-Dinky?” The trooper asked in a slightly distorted voice with a German accent, making the filly recognizing him. “L-Lukas? Is that really you?” She asked in disbelief, the others lowered their weapons, looking at each other in confusion. “Y-Yes. Or what ADVENT made out of me…” He replied, sounding slightly shocked. James’ hand went for his radio. “Central, we got something interesting…Yes, sir, understood.” He then looked at Lukas. “You’re coming with us.” The former human nodded, not saying a word for the entire time until they reached the Avenger. “Is this the ADVENT soldier you reported?” Central asked and they all nodded. “Get him to Tygan.” He said without emotion as Dinky saw how Toby brought Edward to the infirmary for a checkup. Lukas barely entered the lab as he saw a familiar face. “L-Lena…” “Lu-Lukas? Is that you?” She asked in surprise. “Yes…I missed you.” He replied in a shaken voice before Tygan interrupted. “I hate to break this moment, but could you please take your helmet off?” The Trooper nodded and did as told, Dinky. Lena, the Knights slightly gasped at what was under the helmet. Lukas was naturally bald, and had ears that folded back instead of protruding as is normal. His eyes were silvery and lacked pupils, similar to the eyes of a Sectoid. “Oh my…Lukas…” Lena hugged him with tears. “Shh…It’s still me.” He said with a weak smile before the scientist exanimated him, becoming quite surprised. “Fascinating, it appears the explosion short-circuited the neurochip, thus disconnecting you and let you regain your memories.” Lukas smiled. “It’s surprising how a small coincidence can change great things.” He and Lena then shared a kiss, everyone smiled at the sight. “It’s an honor to meet you, Eternal Knights.” He then did a salute. “We are grateful that you helped Dinky,” Fletcher replied. Central then walked in, eyeing the trooper with distrust. “What did you found out, Doctor?” “An explosion short-circuited the neurochip of this trooper, disconnecting him. He was forcefully recruited.” “Is that so? What is your name?” The elderly man asked. “Lukas Barber, Sir.” He replied and Bradford’s eyes went wide in surprise. “Barber. We had one soldier with that name back in the day. Are you…” “Yes, I am his son. And I am willing to continue his legacy.” Lukas replied with pride. Bradford was silent for a moment. “If that is your wish, so be it. Your father was one of the best and most motivated soldiers back then.” Edward was released from the infirmary, being unharmed. Yet, he didn’t know what he should do. It was understandable. His mother was gone and he hadn’t any other relative, or so he was told by Rosie. All others were busy, so he had no one to talk to and frankly, he didn’t want to. He just hugged his knees in the corner of the barracks and sobbed. “Hey…Edward…” A familiar voice said and he looked up to see with a weak smile. “Why? Why had she to go?” The boy asked in a sad voice. “She was everything I had left.” Toby let out a sigh. Over the years, he had little experience with children. Of course, there was the thought of having a child with his girlfriend back then, but being so young, they naturally wanted to wait until older. Now he was almost forty years old and still had no experience. “I wish it had never come this way. Your mother was one of the best friends I had back then. She was a good woman and mother. Sadly, our fate cannot be changed. That there is no good answer ever. Like when I and James lost everything in the invasion. It took a long time to get over it. We carried on with the good memories; the songs, touch, advice and laughs.” “The death of your mother was tragic, Edward,” Dinky said in a comforting tone as she joined them. “She loved you with all her heart, wanting you to be safe. She will always be with you in your heart, remember that.” The boy hugged Dinky, still crying but less desperate. “Thank you, Dinky. You are really a great friend.” “Your mother and I were really good friends. She trusted me, if everything should happen to her, I should take care if you. And I will carry out that wish.” Toby added and the boy hugged him too. “T-thank you…” Fletcher couldn’t tell how fast time had passed after the Retaliation strike, having helped out with another Autopsy, deciding to check on Dinky. He had to smile at the sight. The little filly was sleeping, hugged by Lukas and Lena in their sleep with smiles. He also saw Edward was sleeping peacefully with Toby. “They really mean a lot to her and him.” Bianca whispered as she joined Fletcher. “Yes, she’s like the child they always wanted. And to be honest, after all they went through, I think they earned it.” Fray replied. “Couldn’t agree more. I think you would be a great father.” The unicorn looked at her surprised. “Well, I did help raise my relative Wagensroll and he sees me like a brother, does that count?” The woman grinned. “I’d say yes. You know, James, Patch and Abstraction served longer with XCOM than any of the others in our squad, due to being born before the invasion. Jessie…” She started to blush, “He’s a real gentleman, you rarely see that nowadays. I found out he likes history as I do and likes Italy very much. I think I…” Fletcher held up a hoof as he realized what she tried to say. “You wanted to try your luck with him?” He shrugged. “I know the signs.” “Okay,” The woman shuffled in awkwardness. “So...any advice?” Fletcher smiled. “Be yourself, look out for him, do the best you can whenever you can and patience is key. Always worked for me.” Bianca was surprised. “Really? So you have a...well...a mare back home?” “Not currently but let's say I've had experience.” He replied and the woman started to smirk. “Really? How many?” “You don't want to know.” Now, Bianca grinned. “No, I think I do. Go on, spill...” Fletcher took a deep breath, trying to remember everything. “Well, I loose count. Let's see... There was Goldenchain after Lunich; Frasie de Bois at the Reinland; Sugarsnap, Camas and Ditanny when I came to Equestria; there was Lord Saunter's wife before the Civil War; Domino, mustn't leave her out; Hawkeye the Griffon; Flower-Hour over in Ib'Xian; the Trestila Sisters-“ “Sisters?!?!” His interlocutor exclaimed in shock. “Yeah, all seven of them...They insisted.” Fray replied calm. Bianca now looked dumbfounded at him “...okay...So you got all that by 'being yourself, doing the best you could and being patient' then?” Fletcher shrugged with a smile. “Like I said, it's worked for me.” “Well…Thank you, I give that a try.” Bianca replied slightly unsettled, forcing a thankful smile “You know, you kinda look just as handsome as him with the blonde mane.” The stallion chuckled. “I don’t deny that, but I got ways dealing with attention. Funny enough, for some mares, my and Midnight’s pupilless eyes were mesmeric, if you get what I mean.” Now the woman giggled. “Oh, I do.” It was early morning while Dinky was still asleep, the Knights, together with the Barbers, Jane and Heavy reported to the hanger as they were called to a mission. “What is your request?” Midnight asked Bradford. “We got a mission located in China from the Spokesmen and the commander thought you are most suiting for this. Lukas, due to your condition, you can react as a double agent in the field.” He saluted. “I will not fail you.” They then went on board and Central gave the briefing on the way. “The spokesman has sent word of an alien collaborator moving through this area in an ADVENT transport. Apparently the loss of this individual would be a serious blow to the aliens – so we’re moving in to take care if ‘em. Locate the transport vehicle, and neutralize the VIP along with any resistance. They’d prefer we bring the target in alive, but use whatever means necessary.” The Skyranger then dropped the squad on a building in the City Center. “Menace 1-5, target location confirmed, move to engage. Eliminate all hostile contacts.” Only now, they all took notice that Jane was wearing what appeared to be the scales of the Viper King. “What?” She asked as they looked at her in surprise. “Nevermind.” Lukas said as he scouted ahead, walking down the road towards the VIP, spotting an ADVENT Officer along with a trooper that was wearing a pure white withangular helmet, it was together with the pauldrons adorned with a white and gold patter. He took also notice that the rifle was colored white and the soldier carried also a Psi Amp. At first, Lukas was nervous, fearing they might notice he was disconnected as he came closer. Fortunately, his fear didn’t come true as they greeted him, he returned it before hearing Tygan’s voice through the radio. “It would seem ADVENT has begun deploying their so-called ‘Priests’ into combat. Their implants provide significant enchantments to whatever latent Psionic energy they may have once processed.” Keeping that in mind, the former trooper stepped away from the patrol behind a wall as Fletcher aimed at the Officer and fired, scoring a headshot, killing him. This alerted the Priest, who crouched and held his head as if he could sense the XCOM squad before a Viper, Muton and trooper joined him. The Priest used his Amp and a purple beam headed towards the Muton, leading back to the Priest. Fletcher saw the Muton aimed at him and casted a shield spell, the plasma beam shoved him slightly back, realizing whatever the Priest had done, it improved the Muton’s aim, like Fray had done with James before. Lena moved behind a wall for cover, the white ADVENT soldier aimed and her and fired a rapid burst of six rounds, she pressed herself against her cover as it hit the ground next to her. “Don’t worry, I got him!” Heavy yelled as he climbed down and moved forward but the Priest also saw him and used his powers once more. This time, he aimed at the Russian and he suddenly felt tired as the beam hit him, crouching down, surrounded by a shield. “What just happened?” Lena wondered confused and surprised. “Some kind of Stasis I suppose!” Jade yelled as she charged forward but what happened next was unexpected. The Viper saw her and it’s expression became one of terror, moving behind a bench and fired at the Priest, killing him, then cowered behind cover. As soon as the purple glow stopped, the Muton flinched and fell dead to the ground, Heavy was also freed from the Stasis, getting up with a groan. Wolf then used her wings to flank the trooper and shot him right into the chest, his blood splattered in the wall of a building and Jane used a grappling hook mounted on her left arm to flank the Viper and sliced it with her blade. “X-ray down!” With the way free, the squad now moved along the road and saw something new. It looked humanoid at first, but was primarily black and reflective, with streaks of green within the creases of its armor. “What would appear to be a single entity is actually a swarm of tiny, robotic units working in close coordination to maintain a cohesive form.” Tygan commented on it. As it spotted the squad, the humanoid formed into a black cloud and moved towards the squad, it fired at the cloud but every shot missed. Fletcher barely could blink before he saw the cloud before him, back into the humanoid form again. From out his hands came a jet of black powder that whirled around his foe, forming what looked like a murder of crows around him, flickering bright jade-green. “Help!” He yelled as he got lifted into the air and suddenly everything became black. The others watched in shock as he fell unconscious to the ground, but a copy of him made out of green and black glowing nanomachines stood above him. Said copy aimed its rifle at the grey stallion and fired, he pressed himself against the wall, hissing as the shot grazed his left shoulder. “There must be a way to beat that thing!” Lena yelled and the French woman got an idea. She used her grapple hook to lash at the humanoid form, releasing a cold liquid, freezing it in place. The bat pony then teleported to it and used its own blade to cut the enemy in half. It fell dead to the ground, strangely maintaining its shape. Yet, the copy disintegrated and Fletcher started to stir, getting up with a groan. “What the hay was that?” He grabbed his rifle and used a healing spell in Midnight upon seeing the wound. “You’re okay?” The grey pony asked his friend. “I’m fine.” With that solved, they moved around the corner and saw another trooper with two Stun Lancers, behind them was a limousine, a man cowering behind the opened doors. The ADVENT soldiers opened fire to protect the VIP, yet Midnight quickly teleported between them and sliced one by one, then moved towards the target. The enemy VIP was a man being slightly short, his eyes hidden by large glasses, Oak-brown hair parted in the middle, wearing a grey ADVENT suit. He looked terrified at the stallion, who grabbed a syringe and injected it into the human’s neck, subduing him. “Looks like you’re coming with us.” Midnight said as he picked the man up. “Status confirmed, target package in custody.” Bradford reported on the progress as the team moved towards the EVAC point just across the street. A transport dropped another Officer and two Troopers but Lena, Lukas and Sasha shot then down the moment they jumped out, allowing Midnight to get without problem to the EVAC point and the all evacuated. “Status confirmed, mission accomplished.” On the way back, Midnight cuffed the knocked out man and brought him into a cell once they arrived. “Okay, we got him, what now?” He asked the Central officer. “We interrogate him for intel, I personally will do it.” The squad, together with the others, followed to the cell the VIP was held and Patch stopped as he started to recognize him. “It can’t be…” He said in disbelief. “You know him?” Bradford asked confused. “Yes, we were best friends at school.” “In that case, you should question him.” “Give us some privacy, will you?” Toby asked and the elderly man stepped aside as the VIP started to wake up. “Rupert, you okay?” “..Define 'okay'? I'll live, if that's your concern”, the prisoner replied with a groan. Very good to know. Seems I'm a better negotiator than I thought.” Toby said and the VIP looked at him. Once he saw Toby, his expression was one of shock “Is that…really you?” “Yes, Rupert Summer, it’s me, Toby Spring.” The Specialist replied. “So, are you here to get me out?” Rupert asked with hope. Sheepishly, Spring replied, “Well, that's a bit of a loaded question. I'll have to know how all this came about and then, hopefully, I can square things with the 'lads', as it were.” Summer’s expression became dark. “What? Wait...you...You're with them?!” “XCOM? Well, yeah.” The Specialist tilled his head in bafflement. “Is that a problem?” “Are you bloody joking?! Of course it's a problem!” “Rupe, mate, calm down.” Toby spoke in a calming tone but his friend yelled, “No! I won't 'calm down'! It had to be you… Take away our global health, stable economy, lack of hunger and poverty issues, secure jobs and bring back the wars, petty squabbles and politicians working for money rather than nation.” “No, it isn’t like that, I assure you.” Toby tried to explain. “Oh, but it is. I thought you were dead over 20 years ago. And now you are here. I've seen them destroy a whole block of the city to capture someone, or kill ADVENT officers to sow chaos. A terrorist, that is what you are.” he said cold. Patch stayed silent with a slightly surprised expression, taking a deep breath. “No Rupert, I am not. We are helping those in need.” “Helping? You helped nobody. XCOM was the whole reason everything went down the drain 20 years ago…” Summer’s voice began to crack, his expression one of sadness. “If… if we hadn't resisted...” He started to sob ”If we hadn't fought back! Why didn't we ask for peace first?” Spring thought for a moment. “I don’t know. I have lost everything back then, nowhere to go…” Suddenly the VIP’s expression became angry. So did I! I'm stuck on this ship with a bunch of terrorists!” He exclaimed before suddenly taking a deep breath, shaking. “I waited for you. For years. Did you ever wonder what happened to everyone else? There were more of us, besides your immediate friends, you know?” He asked. “I had nobody over the years. Our home was destroyed. And it all comes down to XCOM. XCOM, who was the only force the aliens feared was enough of a threat to bring the world against you. XCOM, who was not there to save our town. It was XCOM who showed up in the news whenever death and mayhem happened.” Dinky noticed how he balled his fists. “Who defied the Elders? Who still fights them and forces ADVENT to even more retaliatory attacks? Bloody XCOM.” “Now, Rupert-“ “And you know what hurt worse? That the only person that I saw as my best friend, who I thought was dead, shows up years later with the guys who took everything from me. “Bloody XCOM.” He said with pure hate in his voice. “What kind of friend you are.” The Specialist stared at him, unable to process what he had just said. Suddenly, Toby turned around without saying a word. All others looked after him in shock before Dinky started to go after him, the Knights looked at Summer in disappointment, shaking their heads. Jan was helping out in the bar as she saw Patch walking in with a lowered head. “Had a bad day?” “Yeah. One tea please.” He said with a sad and depressed voice. The elderly woman did as told. “Would you like to talk about it?” Toby let out a sigh. “I just…saw a close friend I thought was dead for 20 years, only to see he’s with ADVENT, blaming me for having lost everything. A close friend of mine.” He explained as he saw Dinky walking in out of the corner of his eye. “Please, leave me alone.” “Toby, please. You have no reason to blame yourself. You have seen how he was emotional.” The filly said with a weak smile. “She’s right. I think it’ s survivor guilt.” Midnight added as he joined. “I know this feeling, having done something wrong by surviving a traumatic event when others did not. Give him time.” “Yes, Toby.” Jan said to him. “He was most likely confused upon seeing you, remembering how everything went down. I know how it is. After my husband died in a plane crash, I blamed myself for letting him on that plane. I thought I could have prevented his death. But eventually, I came to realize even if I had tried, it wouldn’t have changed anything.” The man slowly started to smile weakly. “Righto…I….just need sometime for myself.” “Take as long as you need.” The stallion said and walked out. Dinky gave Patch a hug with a smile before she left too. He then looked at Jan with a weak smile. “Thank you.” “You’re welcome.” She replied as he finished his tee and left for the cells. Upon arrival, he saw the ADVENT collaborator lying in his bed, turning towards him with a surprised expression. “Hey, Rupert.” The XCOM operative said with a neutral expression. “Toby…” Summer’s expression became one of regret. “If you are mad at me, I understand. I’m sorry, I lost my nerves, I never meant to insult you. I…the moment I saw you, the horrible things of the invasion started to come back in my head.” He lowered his head. “It’s fine. Listen, you always have been a great friend and I will vouch for you.” Spring had an honest expression. “But I still got my orders.” “Right…I actually know something that could be of use for you.” The enemy VIP replied before Toby held a hand up. “Before that, tell me, do you know what happened to my family and girlfriend?” Dinky played with Lena, Lukas and Edward in the living quarters while the Eternal Knights inspected their weapons. “I hope we could help him.” She sounded unsure. “I’m confident we have.” Midnight replied as Bradford entered. “Sorry to bother, but our prisoner gave us some intel for an important mission and the Commander thought you three should take it on yourselves.” “Alright. We see you later, Dinky.” The stallion said goodbye and left with his two friends. The Knights stepped into the Skyranger for their next mission, feeling sorry for Patch as Central gave the briefing. “We have a positive confirmation on the position of a facility conducting research crucial to the Avatar project in this region. The coordinates are locked in for a tactical strike. Move to the designated position and plant the X4 charges. Once they’re armed, move to minimal safe distance and we turn this place into rubble.” Upon arrival, The Pegasus and batpony used their wings to land, the unicorn rappelled down, having the facility in sight, looking similar to the Blacksite. “Menace 1-5, target coordinates are locked in, move to designated position and place the X4 charges.” The knights moved towards the facility, careful of enemy patrols, stopping at a hill overlooking it. Several soldiers patrolled around, a turret on the roof and a MEC was also patrolling around. “Let’s get to work.” Midnight Wolf used the clouds for cover, while Fletcher walked. He moved from cover to cover whenever the patrols had their back to him, quiet as a church mouse, stealth was their specialty after all. The stallion had no problem to get to the entrance, but had to stop as a trooper was around the corner, facing his direction. Knowing he couldn’t risk getting detected, Fletcher decided to cast a spell that created a noise behind the trooper. It worked as the soldier turned around to take a look, giving the unicorn the chance ti get in with his friends. The inside of the facility had several of those green containers stored. “Menace 1-5, you’re near the target.” Central informed. Midnight then placed the X4 on a support pillar. “Menace 1-5. Status confirmed, X4 charges are armed. Move to the extraction point for immediate EVAC.” Central added as the guards got alerted. The Skyranger got into position at on the roof where a skyline was. Wolf and Midnight flew through it, the MEC and turret missed them, the unicorn teleported on the roof and evacuated. “Menace 1-5, status confirmed, charges detonating.” The facility got destroyed in a giant fireball as the charges exploded, leaving only a big smoke cloud. Midnight grinned as he pulled out a fake cigar. “I love it when a plan comes together!” Back on the Avenger, Dinky welcomed them back. “You’re back, congratulations on your success!” She cheered with a smile. “Thanks, Dinky.” Midnight replied before Shen walked up to them. “Excellent timing. I and Tygan just finished analyzing the data from the Codex you’re disabled and discovered return coordinates. Bradford and the commander want to you investigate it. Also, he wants you to be equipped with something we I just finished to make.” She led all into her small factory, reveling several red colored vests. “May I show you: The Hellweave. It will return damage to any melee attackers and with Scorch Circuits made from the exoskeleton of a Chryssalid, it sets them aflame.” Wolf whistled. “That sounds interesting.” She then put it on with her fellow knights and reported to the hanger. Jane, Bianca, Kyle, Sasha, Lena, Lukas, James and Patch were already there, also equipped with the new vest. The Brit had a neutral expression, causing Dinky to ask him slightly worried. “Are you okay?” “I’m fine, let’s just get is over with.” He replied and Edward gave him a hug, Jan did the same with her son. “Be careful.” “Of course I will.” They then stepped into the transport and Bradford gave the briefing. “Shen and Tygan barely managed to pull these coordinates from that ‘Codex’ thing they had down in the Shadow Chamber. We’re guessing this may be its origin point, but can’t know for sure. Based on the fight it put up, I’d expect heavy resistance either way. Good luck there.” They rappelled down, finding themselves in a desert like area, sand as far as they could see, yet noticed Psionic particle in the air, floating around. "The Target coordinates are just ahead. Hostile presence is currently unknown, but expect the worst.” Central added. Lukas and Dinky scouted ahead, discovering an ADVENT patrol, consisting out of an Officer, a trooper and two Stun Lancers. The former human walked up to them and made a greeting gesture, they returned it. Then he saw a creature standing in the middle of the ADVENT squad. At first, he and Dinky mistook it for a Muton, but it was twice the size, the skin red as if there were only muscles, looking intimidating and animalistic, looking around eagerly for a fight, like it was in a constant rage. “Steer clear of those Berserkers – they can’t do much from range, but they’re lethal up close.” Bradford warned on the radio. Seeing that the others took cover behind a hut and some trees, Lukas walked away from the squad until he was at a safe distance before Heavy fired his rocket launcher at it. They all heard the screams of the AVENT soldiers and an angry roar, seeing to their horror how the Berserker had survived, slamming the ground before charging forward. The XCOM squad focused all fire on it, exploiting its weakness, bringing it down before it came far. “Kill conformed!” Lukas yelled. Wolf saw out of the corner of her eye how the Officer had survived with much luck and fired her Shard gun, killing him the moment changed position with a clear headshot, sending him backwards into the sand. The squad then carefully advanced, strangely encountering no other hostile as they climbed down the small elevation. “That is too easy. Let’s scan the area.” Kyle suggested and Lyra, Dinky and Gyro did as told. Terrible shrieks occurred and several inspect like creatures came out of the ground before them. “Chrysalids…I hate those things…” Toby commented with disgust and fear. “You and me both.” Wolf added in the same tone. One of the aliens leaped forward towards Fletcher and slashed his chest with its claws, he hissed in pain but luckily, his nanomites made him immune to the creature’s poison and the vest did its job. The Chryssalid was burning, flailed around before dying. “For once I’m glad about fire.” He commented relieved as Lena’s GREMLIN healed him. Another Chryssalid leaped at the mare, she stabbed it midair with her knives. “And stay down!” They slowly fight their through the aliens until they came what looked like a gate, the middle glowed purple from Psionic energy, causing the central officer to comment, “I’m not sure what we were expecting to find out of there, but this definitely looks promising.” The squad members couldn’t agree more as they looked at their discovery in awe as Shen added, “That’s not the same rift the Codex used when it appeared. This thing could lead anywhere, it may not even be pointing at Earth.” “As with most things, we’ll likely to need to bring it back to the ship for further examination.” Tygan said before the portal glowed brighter and a smooth spherical creature came out of it, looking like a white floating sphere with a yellow eye in the middle. “This one is uniquely graceful compared to some of the other species we’re seen – it also gives off very strong psionic readings.” The chief Engineer warned as Lukas fired at the shell, it didn’t even flinch. “The armor’s though!” In response, the sphere looked at Bianca and the eye started to glow yellow and a bright beam fired from it at her, throwing the woman to the ground with a cry of pain. “Bolster!” They heard Patch’s voice in a shocked voice and Dinky looked at him. His expression became one of fear, his eyes small. “This isn’t right! THIS ISN'T RIGHT!” He yelled in pain and started to cower behind a rock, trembling and breathing heavily. Suddenly, the white shell opened and a mass of flesh, looking almost purple glowing tentacles were visible, flower-like. Like a bud of many petals folding around each other. The arms started to form a ball of Psionic energy that shot towards Toby and exploded in a shock wave, throwing him over. “PATCH!” James yelled and let out an angry scream. In a fit of rage in a Berserker like state, he aggressively fired at the shell, it flinched and closed to protect itself from the bullets. “GREMLIN, Revival Protocol!” Lena pointed at Patch and her drone flew over to him. He was still alive, cowering on the ground as the GREMLIM released the healing vapor and he started to calm down, his breathing becoming normally. Dinky checked Bianca’s life sign with her GREMLIM, praying she wasn’t dead as she wasn’t moving at all. The filly let out a sign of relief as the scan showed that the woman was only unconscious and lightly wounded, being very lucky and released the vapor to heal and revive her. Midnight charged at the sphere and drew his blade, cutting it sideways, then used his blood magic to retreat safe back into cover as the sphere was slightly thrown back by the hit. “You're done here, you little curd!” Fray yelled as he cast a lance of Psionic energy towards the sphere and it started to rumble, glowing brighter before exploding, leaving only a wreck. “Well...that thing didn't go down easy.” Kyle commented in relief as Bianca groaned and slowly stood up. “Watch out!” James yelled as another Chryssalid leaped towards her, she instinctively held up her arms to protect herself before a loud shot reached in her ears and the alien fell death to the ground in midair. “Are you okay?” She uncovered to herself to see James in front of her with a worried expression. “I’m good.” She replied, grateful he had saved her life. “Status confirmed, all hostile contacts in the AO have been eliminated. The gateway is secure.” Central reported, “Status confirmed, Commander, we’re secured the Psionic gate and recovery teams are en route to the site. Now it’s up to Tygan and Shen to figure out what this thing does.” Once the teams arrived, the squad helped to load the gate into the Skyranger and enjoyed the relaxing flight back, Toby mumbled in disbelief, “Did I mess up there? Sorry...” Midnight patted him on the shoulder. “It’s okay, it happens to everyone, even to us.” As the transport was finally back, Jessie left for a shower, the others relaxed in the bar as Bianca returned from the medical treatment. “Not as bad as I had feared.” Jane smiled. “Glad to hear it.” “Yeah. Reminds me, Jessie’s birthday is tomorrow, would you like to help prepare everything?” She asked the ponies and Dinky grinned. “Of course!” “It would be a pleasure.” Fletcher said, his two friends nodded. And so, Dinky, together with Bianca, Jane, Kyle, Edward, Sasha, Fletcher and Midnight decorated the bar, while Jan and Wolf prepared the food in the kitchen. The elderly woman was impressed by how fast and precise the mare’s cuts were as she made some strawberries to pieces for a strawberry cake. “Didn’t know you’re so good at cooking.” “I spent a lot of my time out in the woods with just my wits to survive. I...don't quite know how this led to me being so good at making strawberry cake but hey, forest survival has its perks.” Wolf relied before she shrieked. Jan turned around and gasped. Wolf stared at her left foreleg. Her hoof was gone. Then the sleeve of her cook clothing fell back, revealing her hoof was fully intact and the Pegasus let out a sigh of relief. “Oh, he will love it for sure!” Bianca said confident, grinning. The German awoke next morning, yawning and stretching himself, wondering where the others were as the living quarters were empty. I guess they went for a mission. He thought and walked towards the bar for breakfast. He opened the door and… “Surprise!” several voices yelled, startling him a bit. He then relaxed and smiled. “Ah, thank you, guys.” “Happy birthday, Jessie!” Dinky exclaimed as she and Jan brought the cake in, the woman smiled proudly at her work. “Thank you, Dinky.” “Happy birthday, my friend!” Toby said with a happy expression and pointed at the candles. “Make a wish.” As the sniper blew out the candles, Bianca walked up to him, slightly nervous. “I have something to say.” “And that this?” He asked curious “...See... w-we've known each other... for a while now... and, well... you and I... we've gotten to know each other... quite well…” She stuttered. “So... what I'm trying to say is...” She paused. “And, please don't take this the wrong way, but... I... I l-lo... I lov...” She couldn’t bring herself to say it. “What’s wrong?” He asked before woman grabbed him gently and pulled him close, kissing him in the lips, catching him off guard completely. “Happy Birthday, this is my gift you.” She said with an amorous glance. James blushed, slightly taken back. He slowly started to smile. “I love you too, that’s the best birthday gift I could ever wish for.” With that, they both kissed and everyone smile warmly at them. “Now let’s celebrate!” Kyle put on an old song. “That’s nice, a song about celebrating.” Jane commented as she enjoyed it and walked closer to Kyle. “Yep, a very good one back-“ He never finished as the Ranger kissed him, he blushed in response. “Indeed. Now, Mr. Abstraction, let’s celebrate.” She said, blushing herself and the man nodded with a slight surprised expression. The others smiled with happiness at the lovers and Edward asked Dinky, ”May I have this dance?” With a smile, she took his hand and they danced together. Sasha, Toby, Lukas, Lena, Jan and the Knights started to dance too, enjoying every second of this successful birthday party, knowing it would be something to remember. Chapter 8 UnsettlingChapter 8: Unsettling As Dinky opened her eyes, she found herself in a rainy Trottingham and heard a whistle. She turned into its direction, seeing a blue unicorn with dark red mane making a stop sign as a car approached. The filly recognized her, it was Pipsqueak’s godmother Blue Murder. He had told her often of how a great godmother the mare was. Unfortunately, after a series of events most refused to divulge, Blue had to leave Pip and his mother, but none of the two blamed her for what had happened. The car stopped and the mare looked to her right and made a go sign and a group consisting of three ponies, the leader was a batpony with an eyepatch over the right eye walked out. “Okay, boys, let’s do this!” “Quite a marvelous day it is outside.” The second pony, wearing a Stetson hat like Applejack commented. “Oh, shut up, Tybalt, all this rain fries my equipment!” The other pony complained. “My pleasure, Bovril.” The other pony joked as they got out of sight and Dinky jumped as suddenly there was a traffic Jam, with Blue looking horrified around. “I told Shadowplay this was a bad idea!” Dinky then woke up, wondering what she had just dreamed as she had to smile. Jessie and Bianca were hugging each other in their sleep, Jane and Kyle did the same. The filly was happy for them that they had found together, knowing they would be happy together. Carefully, not to wake them, she walked out and towards the bar for breakfast, seeing the Knights, Lena and Lukas. “Good morning!” She greeted cheerfully. “Morning, Dinky,” Lukas replied as she joined them. “Have you seen how happy he was yesterday? He won’t forget this birthday so fast.” Wolf asked the others. “Yes, he and Bianca really fit together, and frankly, I think they all earned it.” Lena added. “Couldn’t agree more.” Fletcher took a bite of his toast before Bradford walked in. “Sorry to disturb you so early in the morning, but we got a very important mission to do.” He informed them and they all knew what this meant. “No problem, we report to the hanger bay at once.” Midnight replied and they all equipped their gear, Patch was going with them. Once inside the transport, the Central officer gave the briefing. “As far as we can tell, someone has been smuggling information out of the ADVENT network using one of their data vaults. The signal we picked up is faint, but there’s definitely something down here. ADVENT is already in position for their own recovery effort, so expect heavy resistance and we lost all contact with the resistance forces. Secure the site and locate the vault in question. Leave no enemy standing.” The Skyranger brought them to a small town as they deployed. “Menace 1-5, we’ve got a bead on the ADVENT data vault near your position. Be advised, self-detonating charges are in-place at the target. Move to disarm and extract the package before it’s contents are destroyed.” Keeping that in mind, Dinky and Lukas scouted ahead, moving at the end of the road, spotting an ADVENT patrol, consisting of an Officer, Stun Lancer and a third soldiers they had not seen before. Said soldier was wearing a white and black suit of what appears to be powered armor with a series of silver sockets on the back and a bundle of wires running from the back of the torso to the arms, the suit was marked with red lights on the legs and elbows, large with two pieces of plating on the sides of the helmet. Covering the shoulders of the armor was the bulky white pauldrons, which were larger than those of all other ADVENT units. The most notable feature of these pauldrons was the large red ADVENT logo stamped on the left pauldron, which is shaped like a rectangle. “Our resistance contacts had heard rumors ADVENT might be rolling out a heavy infantry armor system. Looks pretty though.” Central commented as Midnight took position behind a pole and fired at the Officer, blood splatted from the chest as he was thrown against a wall. The Stun Lancer activated his lance as his ally took cover behind a car. The former charged at the batpony who tried to block his attack but the Lancer managed to shove his blade aside and hit him with his Lance into the chest. Midnight let out random gibberish as the electricity went through his body, being disoriented by it, before Fetcher fired at the Lancer’s head and took him out. An ADVENT trooper, together with a Muton appeared from the left side of the road, taking cover behind a fence, Midnight fired a shot at the Muton but missed due to being disoriented. The hand of the white ADVENT soldier started to glow and he punched the ground with it and a red glow was spreading out like a fire and red shields appeared in front of him and his allies. Wolf fired at the trooper, he did only flinch as the shield absorbed the damage mostly. “We must get rid of that shield guy!” She yelled but Midnight got an idea. “Why killing him if he can be our ally?” He used his Amp to send a beam of energy towards the white soldier, he started to hold his head for a second before firing on the trooper. “Dominated!” The others got it, he was mind-controlling him. He ordered the soldier to do his shield trick again, this time shielding the XCOM operatives. The Muton aimed at Lena and fired, she did barely feel pain and only got shoved back a little as she was hit, returning fire and killed the Alien with a shot to the head. “Kill confirmed.” She announced as they moved on. Dinky flew her GEMLIN towards a house where the vault was located, seeing that it was guarded by a MEC and something else. It looked like a blue colored space suit with a yellow glass covering the “Helmet”, looking heavily armored, having what appeared to be a tank with green liquid on the back, causing Central to comment, “This thing looks ready to smash something.” “Is that an environment suit…Maybe something that can’t handle our atmosphere?” Shen suspected. “Those emissions could be toxic. I advise caution.” Tygan warned on the radio. Fletcher fired in the blue suit, the enemy flinched only. “Hit the plate!” With series of low, metallic groaning sounds emitting from behind the sickly-green screen, the Alien then fired multiple green beams, yet missed him, hitting the wall behind him, before Midnight rushed forward to strike the MEC with his Blade, destroying it then retreated back to cover again. The other hostile looked at Lena, aimed it her and Lukas, it’s weapon shook for a second and a green glob was fired from it and both screamed in pain as it hit them “Acid!” The woman yelled as she felt like her skin burned and melted, green spots on her armor, melting slightly, but Dinky was already alerted and healed both with her drone. “Looks like this calls for drastic measure!” The green stallion drew his bow and fire and powered shot, the suit got thrown back, the cockpit broke. A thin, dark, fleshy, faceless figure hung morbidly out its broken visor, blank fish-like eyes unblinking. Then suddenly, the suit twitched and sparked, standing upright again. “We all saw that thing go down…What the hell is it doing?!” Central asked in disbelief as the suit moved towards the Pegasus, laying a trail of deadly coolant in its wake and raised its fist for a strike but Wolf ducked to avoid it. She then fired her weapon and it got thrown back a bit, the White ADVENT solder and Lukas then fired , followed by Patch, eventually taking it down. “Okay, one autonomous alien less in the world.” The Brite said and they moved towards the house, avoiding the acid on the ground and hacked the vault, defusing it. “Menace 1-5, status confirmed, the charges are inactive and the package is secure. Eliminate all remaining hostiles near the AO.” Bradford ordered. An ADVENT transport arrived at the left end of the road and an officer with two Stun Lancers jumped out, the squad got in position before a terrifying roar came from behind the ADVENT troops. Everyone’s eyes went wide in fear at what they saw. A Berserker. But it was different. The head was covered by a metal plate, green glowing lenses were the eyes should be. On the back were two green tanks, connected with hoses to two metal claws. “Of all the aliens running around out there these days…she just had to modify a Berserker, hadn’t she?” Central asked in shock. “Her curiosity was not unfounded, although I agree it was perhaps not the most prudent of choices.” Tygan added. “Oh...well...this day just keeps getting better and better! CAN YOU SENSE THE SARCASM?! CAN YOU?!” Wolf yelled. They all watched as the ADVENT squad opened fire on the alien, but it shrugged everything off, throwing the soldiers back with strong force as it charged at them, then let out a powerful scream, making the XCOM squad quivering in fear. With shaking hands, Patch aimed at it and fired, the shot surprisingly knocked it back. However, it recovered quickly, roaring again and all others concentrated their fire in it as it punched the white soldier, throwing him into a wall, killing him, then slammed the ground, creating a quake that throw everyone over, being stunned or disoriented. Dinky watched in shock as the Berserker moved to Midnight, who had fallen against a car, moaning in pain. “Get up! Quickly!” She yelled on the radio as the Berserker raised it’s arms. The stallion’s vision was blurry, his head ringed as he looked up, seeing a faint, blur figure in front of him. Upon getting clear, his eyes went wide and in a split second, he threw the frost Bomb he still had with him, hearing the cracking of ice. He let out a breath of relive to see the alien frozen, it’s metal claws inches away from his head. “Too close…” He then checked the others, helping them up. “Watch out!” Dinky yelled as the ice cracked, the alien slowly starting to break free. In a matter of seconds, the XCOM operatives surrounded it, opening fire as it broke free, it started to flinch with every hit it took, Midnight used his blade, curing through the chest, Wolf her blade and knives to cut the back. The Berserker let out a dying groan and fell backwards. “The bigger they are, the harder they fall. I’d love to ask Vahlen what exactly she planned on doing with this thing.” Bradford commented relived at the kill. “Status confirmed, all hostiles are down and the area is secure.” “Well, that didn’t go as planned.” Lukas said as they were on their way back. “Hey, could have been worse.” Dinky pointed out with a weak smile and Lena stroked her mane. “I guess you have a point.” Finally back on the Avenger, they used the rest of the day to relax from this exhausting mission, with the others being glad they were still alive after hearing of the modified Berserker. In the evening, Wolf said to Midnight, I hit the hay.” And was instantly asleep as she climbed into her bed. The bat pony put the blanket over her. “Sweet dreams, Wolf.” He whispered and turned to leave before he felt something grabbing him. He looked back, seeing that the mare was hugging him in her sleep. “No, Wolf, I’m not your teddy bear.” He attempted to free himself, only for the Pegasus to strengthen her grip, causing him to groan in discomfort. The time passed, the ponies did some missions here and there to help XCOM, wondering when they could go home. It was now August, and they, together with their friends walked past the lab, seeing Tygan, Shen and Central watching recordings of the Blacksite. “I truly hope those gruesome imagines are the worst of what we find today.” The scientist said to the young woman. “They’re slaughtering us, Doctor. What could be worse?!” Bradford wanted to know as he pointed at the screen. “We’re about to find out.” Lily tipped on a terminal. “I’ve patched the Shadow Chamber directly into the ship’s computer. It’s been shifting through the material we recovered non-stop since our return. Cataloguing sequences.” “Genetic sequences. In near infinite combinations. Yet all bearing similar genetic markers. Human markers” Tygan added. “There must be thousands of them.” Bradford replied with disgust. “Tens of thousands. And the procedure is still nowhere near complete.” “Which is why we need the ship’s computer to find out where they came from.” Shen explained, “By cross referencing them with the data we’ve managed to hack from the ADVENT network.” She tipped on the console and holographic images of patent files and the ADVENT logo got shown. “It’s…an admission file from one of the Gene Therapy clinics.” “Avatar.” Bradford concluded, “Just what exactly is in that vial.” He turned to the scientist, whose expression became horrified. “In my worst nightmares, I would never have imagined.” “Doctor.” Central demanded to know. “I believe we have found the missing civilians.” Tygan said in shock and Bradford shared his reaction. “That’s…that’s impossible.” He said in disbelief. “The gene clinics. Millions of people, just looking for help.” The young woman sounded horrified. “Medically screened and selected. Suitable candidates taken to that contemptible facility to be processed. Refined into the material we now process.” Tygan finished. Dinky gasped at what she heard, the knights, Heavy, Jane and Bianca looked at each other with terrified expressions. Patch, James, Kyle and Jan, Lena and Lukas looked at each other with the same expressions, realizing what horrible fate they had barely escaped and their friends had suffered. “But…Why do this?” The Central officer asked in confusion. “I could not begin to fathom a guess at this point. There exists no research that would ever warrant this.” The Chief scientist told him. “It’s genocide, Doctor. And these people are walking into it!” Lily exclaimed in disgust. “We may not know what they’re doing with this stuff, but I think I can find out where it’s going.” She tipped on the monitor again. “Got it. It’s a high security facility – standard defensive complement.” “Then we should act quickly, there is no time to waste!” Dinky exclaimed, surprising everyone. After a brief pause, Tygan said, “Agreed. The information we gain could prove invaluable towards stopping the aliens’ true agenda. Reminds me, if you see another Codex in the field, Midnight, try to hack it.” “No problem and I agree, the sooner we do this, the better for all of us.” The stallion sounded determined and they made their way to the Skyranger. Once they got in, the others noticed how Sasha was wearing what looked like the skin of the modified Berserker. “Tygan made a powerful armor out of it, let’s see how it does in the field.” He said as Bradford gave the briefing. “As far as we can tell, this Forge is some sort of alien production facility, most likely tied to that stuff we found at the Blacksite. ADVENT and the alien forces won’t be happy to see us, so expect heavy resistance. We have to do whatever it takes to find out what’s going on in there.” The transport deployed them in a forest area. “This is Avenger. The facility is in range, move to investigate.” Central gave the order and Dinky and Lukas scouted ahead. They both spotted a Stun Lancer and Codex patrolling the road ahead, causing Tygan to say, “Commander, that Codex provides the ideal opportunity to infiltrate the ADVENT network.” Just as he finished, the patrol moved away, and loud stomping sounds greeted their ears, seeing a Sectopod, patrolling with the small group, it was black in color. “The aliens used this to defeat most of Earth’s conventional forces. It can punch through armor just as easily as it chews through infantry. Be careful.” Shen warned. The rest of the XCOM squad moved up and Bolster took aim at the Stun Lancer, pulling the trigger. The shot went right through the helmet, throwing the body a few meters back. In the moment the Codex and Sectopod took notice of the hostiles, Heavy fired a grenade at the latter, the explosion destroyed some of the armor and the Codex used a rock as cover. The Sectopod extended its legs and opened it’s front and a series of emitters became visible. They quickly realized it charged up a powerful shot. They all fired at the robot, it did not flinch nor got thrown back, making it impossible to tell if it took damage before they moved out of the way as the Sectopod fired, destroying tress and rocks in it’s path. Midnight then flew up and used his own Blade, the Sectopod glowed red and exploded. Then he dived towards the Codex and rammed the Skulljack into the jaw, lifting him it and killing it instantly, starting the hack. “I got access.” Before anyone could react, a purple glow appeared on the ground near them, glowing brighter and brighter. As it vanished, they all saw what appeared to be a human in a black armor suit. The human had white hair, appeared to be androgynous, the face could barely be seen, covered behind a purple facemask, raising a hand to flaunting Psionic powers, as it glowed purple. “Commander, I believe we are seeing something entirely new…an alien species that has so far managed to elude capture or observation by resistance forces. I strongly advise a cautious approach.” Tygan warned as the human went to cover behind a tree. Dinky noticed that a purple projection of an Elder was behind the hostile as Patch yelled, “The mind is willing!” And shot a beam of psionic energy towards the human, it filched in pain, then vanished in a purple flash and reappeared on their left flank behind a barrier. “It can teleport!” “Let’s see how you like this!” Sasha yelled as he charged forward, evading a shot from the enemy and performed a punch, it threw the enemy into a wall of a checkpoint, but it recovered quickly. “How tough is that thing?!” The hostile then fired a beam of energy towards him and he grunted in pain, but Lena already sent her GREMLIM to heal him. “You won’t get away!” Wolf yelled as she casted her vines to lock the enemy it place, the human struggled, unable to break free as all other fired on it, flinching with every hit but still was standing before Patch fired at the head. The human fell dead on its back and they saw how the projection of the Elder dissolved with a distorted scream. “It’s down.” Abstraction confirmed the kill and they moved towards the Forge. As it was in sight, looking very familiar to the Blacksite, the filly noticed that Lukas held his head for a second. “Are you alright?” She asked with concern. “This place…looks familiar, but I can’t remember from where…”He replied. An ADVENT officer, together with a Stun Lancer and a MEC guarded the entrance, the robot was red in color instead of white. Midnight threw one of his Bombs at them, it blew the soldiers against the wall, the MEC was sparking, but still standing. “it’s better armored than the white version!” He exclaimed but that gave Abstraction an idea. “Maybe, but not against this!” He pointed at the MEC and Lyra flew over, shocking the MEC and it fell sparking and smoking to the ground. The former trooper and Dinky then entered the Forge, seeing several tubes with the ADVENT Logo on it. They opened and they saw something surprising. “These aren’t civilians. They’re ADVENT.” Shen said as she saw troopers in the tubes with their eyes closed, like they were sleeping or unconscious. “Yes. And judging by the subject’s condition, I’d say it was recently manufactured.” Tygan added. “No wonder they keep coming.” Central commented as Lukas held his head again, seeing flashes of the same facility and himself getting operated on. “I…remember. I was made into a trooper in such a facility….” He mumbled and Dinky and Lena slightly gasped, not wanting to imagine how painful it must have been for him. A little further ahead, they spotted a new enemy. It’s visual design appeared to be based of on the Egyptian gods, featuring ornate gold armor, a wreath-like design for its levitation jets and a muscular physique, but like with ADVENT soldiers, only the mouth was visible. It held a polearm in its hand. “The aliens may have cleaned up the design, but these monsters are no better off than the ones my father dealt with.” Lily commented at the sight as the rest of the squad moved in. Next to the new enemy was a Muton, he panicked upon seeing the Grenadier, firing at the flying alien, then cowered behind a wall. The shot only grazed it, but thy saw how the flying enemy, raised it’s hand into the air, letting out a angry roar, like it was in a frenzied state. Sasha pressed himself against the wall as the hostile pointed his pole at him and fired a green beam, hitting the ground next to his left foot. Lena then took aim and fired at the head, taking it down for good. The squad then took a close look at the pods with the ADVENT soldiers, not believing what they saw as Central commented, “First it’s human bodies, now we’re finding ADVENT…something tells me they didn’t abduct these ones.” “Looks more like a production facility to me, the configuration is different…is it possible? Could this be where the ADVENT forces are coming from?!” Shen wondered. “Nothing is beyond the realm of possibility when dealing with the aliens.” Tygan added. They then moved towards a room in far back, finding a white colored tube. ”This is Avenge, package is in range“ Bradford informed them and Jane walked up to it, pulling the lever to open it. A white suit, looking similar to a space suit fell out and she caught it as Central exclaimed in shock, “How can that be? It’s just like the one –“ “Careful! Preserve the specimen at all costs!” The scientist warned. “Confirmed acquisition of the package. Move to EVAC.” The ECAC zone was just behind the Forge, so they quickly made their way there but a reimport brought reinforcements in form of an officer with a trooper and Stun Lancer right next to it on a small elevation. The others suppressed the ADVENT troops, so Jane could get the stasis suit to the EVAC zone and grabbed the rope to get on the Skyranger. “Status confirmed, target package in custody.” Bradford acknowledged. Fletcher then focused his magic and teleported between the hostiles in a flash, stabbing them with his spear to clear the way. “Now let’s move!” Suddenly there was a roar and they all looked behind them, seeing another of those flying enemies, but this one had a red skin and the armor was silver in color. “This…variation on the Archon we’ve encountered before must surely be the modified subject Dr. Vahlen had been experimented on.” The Chief scientist commented at the sight. “She didn’t have to upgrade their equipment on the process, no matter these things escaped from the lab!” Central yelled in annoyance as Patch fired a shot, throwing the Archon back quote a bit, only for it to let about an angry scream, like the regular one had done. As the Specialist reloaded, the modified Archon flew up high into the air and let out a battle cry, launching a barrage of explosives from it’s pinions, the CXOM soldiers looked up in shock and dived out of the way as the pinions came down, barely avoiding it “Watch out, Midnight!” Dinky warned but it was too late as the stallion was still dazed on the ground when the Archon grabbed him and flew high up into the air, the bat pony struggled to get free. “Let go of him!” Wolf flew up and delivered fast, yet strong stabs with her knives, causing the alien to let go and Midnight used his wings to stabilize himself in the air, then rammed his Blade into the Archon’s chest, the alien let out a grunt and fell dead towards the ground. “Vahlen toughed ‘em up good. But not good enough to handle us. “Good work out there people.” Central praised them and they evacuated before more reinforcements would arrive. “We’ve got what we came for, let’s get clear of the area.” “I am eager to begin examining the subject as soon as we get it back to the labs. We might as well take advantage of Dr. Vahlen’s existing experiments, as I have no intention of trying to replicate them myself.” Tygan added. “Commander, that’s the last of ‘em…three botched science experiments, three alien rulers down for the count. At the very least, we know Vahlen is still out there somewhere, and we picked up some new gear in the process. Not a bad haul considering.” As the Skyranger flew back to the Avenger, they all let out a breath of relief that they had made it. “Can…can you believe what they did to those poor people?” Bianca asked, not able to believe what she had seen. “I can’t believe it either. I mean, me, Kyle and Patch barely avoided this fate back then.” James replied with a shaken voice. “Yes, but with this latest success, we might be able to stop this.” Dinky said, sounding very confident about it. “I guess you have a point. Let’s hope it is.” “I’m pretty sure it will, James.” Midnight replied with a slight smile. Suddenly an alert ringed in their ears. “Firebrand, what’s wrong?” Jane asked on the radio. “We got ADVENT interceptors incoming! They got a lock! Hold on!” The pilot yelled and suddenly the Skyranger shook violently and Dinky screamed, with Lena holding her tight to calm her down. The ramp broke apart and they felt the strong wind, smelling smoke from the outside and the VTOL shock again, throwing them all over and they heard screams. “James!” Bolster yelled as he and Toby got thrown out, the Pegasus and bat pony jumped out to save them. “Help!” Dinky yelled as she almost had been thrown out, holding on the ramp with both hooves for dear life, slowly slipping, hearing in shock how Lukas and Fletcher screamed as she were thrown out too. Lena attempted to grab her but she fell and screamed, with all others watching in shock. Her life flashed before her eyes as the ground came closer and closer. “Got you!” A voice yelled before she blacked out upon impact. Chapter 9: Left behindChapter 9: Left behind “Ugh…” Dinky came to with a chin head and body, her vision was blurry. “I am…still alive?” She groaned as her vision became clear, finding herself on what appeared to be a rooftop, Toby, Jessie, and Lukas were lying beside here, apparently unconscious, the Knights watched over them, with Fletcher looking at her with a relieved smile. “You’re awake, I feared the worst.” “W-what happened?” The filly asked as she got up. “You, me and the others got thrown out as the Skyranger was attacked. Luckily, I managed to catch myself with my magic and caught you just barely before the ground, same for our three friends.” He explained with a slightly shaken voice. Dinky’s eyes went wide as she realized the situation. Are we…L-left behind?” She stuttered in fear and James sighed as he stood up. “I am afraid to say, yes. We appear to have landed in an abandoned city. But I am pretty sure we find a way out of this.” James replied as he noticed how Toby fiddled with his radio, his voice was flat-toned as he spoke into it. “Come on...Come on...Come on-Come on-Come on-Come on! Come on! Is anyone there?!” He gripped the radio harder, his hand shaking. "Cheap, stupid, waste of bloody, sodding goddamn, motherfu-“ He yelled in rage and his friend spoke up. “Toby, let me.” Patch’s eyes went wide and he yelled defensively, “Hey, I'm working!” “That's not your radio.” James pointed out “Well, whose is it then?” The Brit asked, his expression one of despair as he held it up mockingly. “Anyones?! Helloooooo! Oh, silly me, I forgot half of us are dead or missing!!! I am trying to work here!” The sniper raised his hands apologetically. “Yeah, I appreciate that but it isn't getting us anywhere.” “Well, if you stopped standing around looking stupid, breathing down my bloody neck, it just might, okay?!” Patch yelled stressed “Toby, you need to calm down,” James suggested in a calm voice. “Calm down for what?! We're in buggering No-Man's-Land, folks! If we calm down, they get us! Now get off my case!” The Specialist now was yelling in an angry tone. “Patch!” The filly’s voice called out and the man turned to her with a furious expression. “WHAT?!” Dinky took a deep breath and her voice was quiet as she said slowly, “Please put the gun down...” The Brit now slowly looked at the gun in his right hand, he hadn't even noticed he was holding it, put it away and stared at James with a face pale with shock and guilt as he realized what he had almost done. He raised his hand and gave Jessie the radio. “Sorry...I'm just a bit...Sorry...” He said in an apologizing tone before he mumbled as he looked around, his expression half-delirious. “It'llbefineeverythingiseverythingisfineohsweetlordI'mgoingtodiehere...” “Please don’t fight, I don’t like to see friends fighting. I know this isn’t a good situation, but fighting each other won’t help us.” Dinky said with sadness in her voice. The two friends took a deep breath and Toby replied, “Righto. Sorry, we are just still shaken at what had just happened to us.” “It’s okay. Happens to anypony.” “Yes, even to us.” Midnight added. “Now, let’s find a way out of here. And beware of the Lost and Purifiers.” Dinky had been told by them what the Lost and Purifiers were. She couldn’t think of how horrible it must have been for the people that had fallen victim to those fog pods 20 years ago, as they climbed down a fire escape. The filly looked with sadness at the streets littered with abandoned cars, and victims of the fog pods that were lifeless statues, standing or lying on the ground in protective or scared poses next to the leftovers of the fog pods, a green glow was around them with green roots, covering some of the victims too. “This must have been horrible.” “Yes, it was. My home was completely wiped out, abandoned like this one.” James sounded slightly afraid, trembling and so did Toby. It was understandable given the situation they were in and what they had experienced in the past. “Any idea where we could be?” He asked the others as Toby started to read a road sign that looked like a town sign in a non-English language. “The Philippines.” He replied, surprising his friend. “You can read Filipino?” Patch shrugged. “I may have never had interest in the diplomatic background of my family, but it has its perks.” The man’s expression became one of fear. “One of my friends is from here. Her home was hit from one of those fog pods, haven’t heard from her ever since. If she’s a Lost…I don’t think I can…” He said with dread in his voice as Lukas put a hand on his shoulder. “Don't worry, Patch, I'm sure it won't come to that.” Spring took a deep breath. “Righto. Now I wish I had stayed with a rifle. Wolf, can you scout ahead?” He asked as they came to a corner. “No problem.” She flew ahead and they all waited for her report. “Sector is clear.” The mare said on the radio and the group prepared to move on. Suddenly, several bestial howls echoed through the empty streets, startling Dinky. “What was that?” They moved around the corner, seeing Wolf running towards them, screaming “NOT CLEAR! NOT CLEAR!” Dinky’s eyes went small in fear. The Pegasus was chased by fast running life forms that resembled humans but their skin was grey and rotted, their clothes torn, the eyes glowing green. Lukas, James and the Knights opened fire, going for the head, Dinky, while scared, fired non-lethal spells to stun them, seeing how Patch reloaded frantically every round, making her realize how unpractically the Bow Caster was in this situation. One Lost came to close to her, she bucked it with her hind legs, making it stumble and Patch finished it off with his pistol and they defeated the Lost quickly. “Let’s move, we can’t stay here.” He suggested and they all moved down the road, coming to an end, leading to the left or right. “Which way do we take?” He asked before a hissing sound greeted their ears. They saw an inferno on the right side, two Purifiers walking out of it. “Don't let them get too close!” The Specialist warned and Fletcher fired a shot, it went through the helmet of one hostile, the other one moved from cover to cover, evading their fire and responded with a jet of fire. Dinky screamed in fear but Fletcher managed to get up a magic shield, protecting her and the others from the flames. The ADVENT soldier ceased fire at the sound of howling, turning around to see a horde of Lost coming towards him and the others, way too much for all to handle. Midnight decided to use his Psionic powers, sending a purple beam towards the ADVENT soldier, the Purifier held his head in pain, then started to fight the horde. “It will buy us some time!” The stallion yelled and they moved into the other direction. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a dead end, being a housing development with a few courtyards. “What now?” Dinky asked, not able to think of a way out. “We move through the country yards.” Jessie suggested, “Midnight, Fletcher, check the building in the middle. “You got it.” The unicorn replied and they moved out. Fletcher went first, slowly opened the door and saw out of the corner how an ADVENT trooper was about to ambush it by trying to hit him with the butt of his rifle. Fletcher managed to grab the rifle and they both struggled until he managed to shove him back as Midnight threw the trooper to the ground, making Fletcher losing his balance, falling over. He watched as Midnight punched the trooper into the face, throwing the helmet off before the hostile managed to stab him under the armor into the stomach. “Midnight! Oh, Bick!” Fray exclaimed as Midnight clenched his wound and the trooper ran towards the unicorn. The stallion grabbed the knife and struggled again, throwing the enemy to the ground, using his magic to beat him twice with his helmet, splattering blood on the ground. He then moved towards his wounded friend who pointed towards the door. “12 o' clock!” Fletcher quickly drew his revolver and shot an incoming ADVENT trooper into the head. “Get me out of here!” Midnight groaned in pain as the green pony dragged him out, towards the country yards. On your left!” The grey stallion pointed out another Trooper and Officer, Fletcher quickly shot them into the head with his pistol, then vaulted over a fence and helped Midnight over and shot three more Troopers that came from the direction they had come from. “We're clear! Come on!” “I’m losing blood.” Midnight groaned. “Hang in there!” Fletcher replied as he dragged him towards a bridge where the others were holding of a few Lost, leaning his friend against a wall as smoke got popped to his right. “Keep your head down!” He fired his revolver to kill three more troopers. “Watch out!” Midnight yelled as another trooper came behind and the bat pony fired his pistol, taking him down. Fletcher then continued to drag him towards the bridge as suddenly a grenade flew towards him. “Bick!” He yelled and threw it away, not caring if more Lost were drawn to them. “Midnight!” Wolf exclaimed in shock as he assisted Fletcher and helped with Dinky to patch him up, as Patch ordered his GREMLIN to heal. “I…survived worse…trust me…” The grey stallion winched in pain as Lukas took a look at the bridge. “It appears it collapsed during the invasion or through disrepair, but we may be able to jump over it.” “Alright, let’s go for it.” Jessie and Toby jumped first, grabbing the edge and pulled themselves followed by Lukas, while Wolf carried Dinky and Midnight and flew them to the other side, scouting ahead. Fletcher then jumped, holding onto the edge as a part of it collapsed, losing his grip with his left hoof, looking down as it was a long way. As he looked up, his eye went wide as a Berserker grabbed him, lifting him up into the air. Fray barely managed to cast a shield spell as the Alien was about to deck him, the shield did his work but still, Fray’s vision was blurry and his ears ringed for a moment as he felt the pain. “Leave him alone! You big curd!” Wolf yelled as she came from behind, the Berserker turned around in surprise before she rammed her blade into its throat, killing it and Fray fell to the ground, using his magic again to land on the intended side and not to his death, by teleporting. “You’re okay?” She asked him. “I’m fine.” “Glad to hear it, the others are just ahead. Oh, almost forgot.” In a flash she was gone for a second and back, holding Midnight’s rifle. “He shouldn’t be without it. Wait…did you hear that?” “Hear what?” Fletcher looked around, seeing nothing. “I thought I heard something.” The mare walked up to a building, opening slowly the door and drew her knife as a Stun Lancer rushed from her right, grabbing her knife and rammed it into a wall. She took it out and they both struggled before she was punched into the chest and fell on a table. Wolf kicked the hostile, sending him out of the window and climbed out, seeing how Fletcher at the end of the road with the others, holding more Lost at bay, as she raised the knife to finish her opponent but she grabbed it with both hands to prevent her from killing him. He managed to shove it away and punched her in the face, stunning her for a moment. Upon recovering, she heard a cling sound and looked down in shock as she realized that the Stun Lancer had pulled the pin on a grenade she was wearing on her armor, pushing her back into the building. “Auntie!” Dinky exclaimed in shock as she saw the explosion and the ADVENT soldier raising a fist into the air, cheering. “No! Wolf!” Fletcher exclaimed. The ADVENT soldier suddenly twitched, then fell dead to the ground, a knife in his head and coughing, the blue Pegasus came out of the smoke, covered in dust, but fine. “That all you got, you wuss?!” She exclaimed as he grabbed the knife and walked back to the group. Patch did a scan on her, just in case and was relieved that she was really fine, then looked up ahead. “It appears the city limit is just ahead, let me take a look.” The Specialist climbed up a house façade. “Yep, it is. Go ahead, I keep watch.” Dinky let out a sigh as they walked towards, seeing bright sunlight instead of the dark green of the abandoned city, happy to finally be out of here. James put a hand on his radio. “We are out of the city, are you coming, Patch?” Instead of an answer they heard a loud rumble, looking towards the house the Brit was standing on, it was slowly collapsing and they saw him running towards the edge, cursing something, which was incomprehensible due to the crumbling of the house. As he jumped down, the bat pony and Pegasus flew towards him and grabbed him by the arms, stopping his fall and gently brought him down. “Thanks.” “Where do we go?” Dinky wanted to know. Toby thought about it, putting a hand to his chin. “My best guess would be to go to a settlement where we can contact the Avenger.” By foot it would take too long, but maybe we can find something in here?” Jessie asked and pointed to a building that looked like a small garage or barn that had fallen into disrepair, parts of the roof were missing. “It’s worth a try,” Toby replied and opened the door with his friend, all were surprised at what they found inside. It was a yellow SUV, the tires were flatted, the roof had a small dent from the roof beam that had landed on it, shattering the driver window and Patch whistled. “Look at that. Roof must've come down during the years. Uh, good thing it's a Range Rover...these things are invincible. My father worked in a shop that specialized in making and trading car parts, so I know a thing or two. “My father also knew a lot about cars, let’s try to repair it, so we can get around faster,” James suggested. Lukas nodded. “I was never that much interested in cars, but let’s do this.” “I do love a challenge,” Fletcher added, Dinky, Midnight and Wolf nodded, gathering the tools around in the barn and helped as good as they could to restore the SUV, enjoying it too. After a while, the windows and tires were repaired and the fuel tank refilled with some spare canisters that were in the barn too. “Alright, let’s see if it worked.” Toby tried to start the engine and with a loud “Vroom”, it came to life. “Wonderful.” “And not too soon!” Lukas yelled as he pointed an ADVENT ground transport moving in and they got into the SUV, James took the passenger seat. “Why am I behind the wheel? I never even finished my driving lessons!! “Honestly, the roads the way they are, playing Grand Theft Auto's good enough.” Günther countered and Toby’s expression became embarrassed. “Er...” “You never played Grand Theft Auto?!” Sheepishly, his friend asked “...Does Simpsons: Hit and Run count?” “Could you please shut up and drive?!” Midnight yelled as the troops spotted them and opened fire, Dinky shrieked and held onto the seat as Patch put the gas to the pedal and drove at full speed out into the landscape. The others leaned out of the windows and fired their weapons as ADVENT squad cars chased them, aiming for the drivers or tires to get rid of them. Fletcher scored a shot through the windshield of one squad car, it lost control and crashed against a tree. Toby steered the SUV into a tunnel, causing Wolf to yell, “What are you doing?!” “Trying to escape them!” He replied as Dinky could swear she saw a bright light shining in front of them. James’ eyes went wide as he realized what it was. “Incoming train! Go right! Go right!” Dinky screamed as the train came closer and Patch barely dodged it, and his friend yelled, “A little close there, friend!” “Sod off! We're still in one piece!” Patch yelled in response, yet his action had an advantage as the pursuers weren’t able to dodge the train in time, crashing into it, derailing the train and blocking the tunnel. Dinky started to relax as the SUV left got out of the tunnel and drove towards the normal road, taking a deep breath, leaning back into her seat, as Toby said, “I think we lost them.” “Good…now let’s find a way to contact the Avenger.” Midnight replied as Günther noticed something. “There appears to be tape in the radio player. Mind some music?” He asked and the others shook their heads, so he pressed the play button. The tape played a song about a man wanting to get a ticket for a plane, wanting to go home, as his lover had written him a letter, missing her terribly. The ponies enjoyed it, it reminded them of their situation, wanting to let their friends and families know they were safe, wanting to go home. It also suited the situation of Jessie and Toby, as they had lost their homes and loved ones, looking for a new home. They traveled down the abandoned road, not encountering any soul until the sun was setting, stopping to rest, warming themselves at a campfire. “Jessie? Why do you have a headset on your cap?” Dinky was curious and he grinned as he looked at her. “It’s simple. I have a free hand that way, not having to bother with grabbing, which is an advantage as a sniper to react quickly. Plus I can listen to music in my spare time.” He chuckled. “Remember when I told I used to be handicapped?” “Yes.” The filly replied. “You see, I was born two months too early, thus my handicap. I could barely open my left hand, only holding it like this.” He held his left hand like he was grabbing a doorknob. “But I managed to improve, doing things better with one hand than my parents could with two. With the gene clinics, this was healed, though it took a long time to adapt to that.” Dinky thought about it, how strange it must have been for him. “It must been hard for you.” She said with sympathy, giving a weak smile, which he returned. “Yes, it was.” “I am glad we are out of that city. You did pretty well with fighting the Lost.” Wolf complimented them with a hint of pride in her voice “Well, before the commander was rescued, we went into the abandoned cities to gather supplies that were still in there, so we fought them before. After the rescue, the commander decided those operations weren’t necessary anymore.” Patch explained as he took a bite of his ration. Every XCOM operation had emergency rations that lasted for a few days, just in case. “I am glad to have those rations. After the invasion, millions of livestock went missing and ADVENT decided what products people should eat, even animal husbandry got forbidden. I used to have a cat once before the invasion, sadly has not survived.” Günther lowered his head. “The crackdowns on food made the City Centers the only choice to survive. The younger generations that grow up in the City Centers have no idea of survival outside.” He added as he looked up with a weak smile, missing the old days. “If it would be possible, I’d try to give you a new start in Equestria.” Midnight mumbled with a weak smile of his own and both bronies chuckled. “Going to Equestria was a very favored fanfiction subject in the fandom. I’d love to go, though I have no idea what race cutie mark or colors I would have as pony.” James scratched his back. Wouldn’t be surprised if I end up as palette swap of you, Fletcher or of Wagensroll.” Fletcher slightly chuckled, thinking this would be very possible. “And me, probably as a ‘brother’ of Purple Patch or palette swap of him at the most. And Edward would probably a palette swap of Pipsqueak.” Toby’s expression was one of embarrassment. “Best not to break your heads about it. Get some sleep, we stay guard.” Fletcher suggested and the two humans, filly and former ADVENT soldier nodded, getting comfortable around the fire, drifting off to sleep. As Dinky opened her eyes, she found herself at the outskirts of Ponyville, seeing ponies in golden armor preparing large cannons and several canisters, making her wonder what was going on. “What’s happing?” She asked the guards who paid no attention except for a captain, who said in a flat and unemotional voice, “Leave this place. A cleansing is underway. Civilians must be relocated. The Grand Master commands it.” “C-cleansing?” The filly blinking, not understand what this word meant. “Are you lost, child?” A male cold voice said her to her, seeing a unicorn stallion in the same golden armor walking towards her, his voice concealed by a metal mask. “I am Solomon, Grand Master of the Lumen Order, her majesty's most exalted vigilantes. How may I be of aid to you, little one?” “W-what do you mean?” She asked scared, remembering what Fletcher had said about him. “The servitors of Nightmare Moon have become latched, leech-like, unto this dwelling. Already they have struck out at our domain, killing and looting all they see. We must rid them from this land, burn them away like the rot they are.” He explained in his cold voice, not showing any emotion. “B-but… my…” She tried to protest but the shock made her words stick in her throat, Solomon held up a hoof. “You need not worry, child. Your father, the noble adventurer through time and space has demonstrated his deep loyalty to our one true Princess. All have done so will be spared.” While it was a bit relieving, the young unicorn was confused and horrified how the caring princess of the sun could allow such a tyrannical pony to serve in her forces. “No! Please! I don’t want to die!” A young voice cried in fear, Dinky turned into its direction, gasping to see two guards bringing a crying Pip towards her and Solomon. “Please, spare him! He’s my friend!” She cried in despair, tears leaving her eyes. Solomon in return, dried her tears, smiling. “Dear child, the lion cub does not mix with the wolves. The heathens choose their fate while the blessed accept the fate our Princess chooses for us. Their blood once spilt is only on their own hooves. Tears must be shed for their sin but never for their suffering.” His voice sounded warm and caring. Despite this, she sniffed, not believing what she just heard, Pip was her friend, he hadn’t deserved this at all. Both took notice of guards wearing bright yellow armor, having what seemed to be gas masks made out of glass-crystal bubbles if they saw it right, turning the canisters on and fired the cannons, green-yellow gas started to cover Ponyville. “Mark my words, children: This will be a day long remembered, it will see the end of the Eternal Knights, it will soon see the end of the Lunar Republic.” The Grand Master told them. Dinky just stared in horror at the gas cloud, watching her home getting destroyed. If Solomon’s words were true, her family was safe but all her friends, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Ruby, Noi, would suffer a slow and painful death, as the grass turned black, the tree leaves yellow. “The Purification...It...Is...GLORIOUS!” Solomon exclaimed in admiration. After several minutes, the gas cleared. “Now, my chosen. Bear your torches hence. Root out the shadow in every corner and curve and purge it from Celestia's domain.” Solomon ordered his troops and they moved out. The filly couldn’t believe it, her home was destroyed, her friends about to die, how could Celestia let this happen? “Fletcher Fray! You fled like a rat from the pyres of Mondelin! Behold, I hunt you still! The sun above grants you no place to hide!” The stallion added in a triumphing tone. “Your heresy will go unpunished no longer! Celestia wills it! Now, time to give you what all traitors of the sun deserve.” He turned to Pip who trembled in fear. “Don’t hurt him! I beg you!” Dinky pleaded, stepped in front of his little friend. “I understand your caring for him but only by cleansing those traitors from our own ponies, we can guarantee peace and safety,” Solomon explained in his cold voice as he stepped closer. “Grand Master!” One of his soldiers interrupted him, pointing towards the town. “What…now?” He asked confused, as his soldiers ran back to their own positions in panic, trampling over each other, while falling into their own barbed wire. The reason terrified Dinky to the bone. What was left of the population and defenders, counterattacked with all they had left, led by the Eternal Knights, showing signs of chemical burns on their faces, their bodies wrapped up in rags, spitting out blood and pieces of their lungs. “Madness! Heathen madness! Pull back to the Badlands point! Pull back!” Solomon exclaimed in shock and panic, completely terrified himself by this sight. The Lunar forces opened fire with their rifles, killing many of Solomon’s troops with artillery. But Solomon wasn’t ready to leave. He roared up on his hind legs, his horn casting a rising whip of flame like a crown of fire, Dinky closed her eyes, not able to see what would happen now. “BURN, HERETICS!” He screamed, Dinky could feel the fire around him. She expected screams of pain, instead, she heard the sound of a piercing chill, followed by a groan of pain. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw that Fletcher had rammed his spear through Solomon’s chest. The Grand Master was held into the air, grabbing the spear in shock, writhing and spluttering, blood running down his mask. The mask was hiding any emotion but Dinky could swear Solomon had never been expected this. “Solomon... That the best you got? Then your best won't do. You among wolves now. And these are our woods.” Fray said before he pulled his spear out, and the Grand Master fell to the ground in his own blood. Fletcher then turned to Dinky, managing to give her a smile before he succumbed to his injuries, falling to the ground, along with Wolf, Midnight and many known faces of Ponyville, like Big Mac, the major, Carrot Top, and many other earth and Pegasus ponies, but strangely, no unicorns. Despite still being in shock, she didn’t hesitate to free Pip who hugged her. “Thanks but what are we gonna do now…” He asked in shock. “I don’t know.” She replied, looking at the gassed city, noticing what appeared to be a magic shield coming slowly out of the gas clouds. Behind the shields were all unicorn residents of Ponyville, casting it, the CMC, Noi, Ruby and all other foals walking out behind them with half sad, half relieved faces, knowing they had all lost something but were still alive Lyra looked at Bon-Bon’s body with sadness and grief. “I will never forget your sacrifice.” Pip and Dinky looked at each other, then joining the survivors as they evacuated. Many had died, but thanks to their sacrifice, a part of Ponyville had survived to live another day. The child woke up with a slight gasp, breathing heavily, looking around. It was night, the others sleeping peacefully. Dinky let out a sigh, relieved that it had just been a dream. Yet, she realized Earth's wars may not have been so strange to Equestria as she thought. The Lost had terrified her and she hoped her home would never have such a fate as those poor people. Taking a deep breath, she fell asleep again. She awake as she heard a voice saying, “Wakey, wakey, Dinky.” And feel a hand gently shaking her. Yawning, she saw Toby looking at her with a smile. “Good morning, Toby!” She greeted with a smile of her own and they all breakfasted. James then suggested, “We should move quickly, there is no time to lose.” Patch grinned. “Righto! There’s no stopping us!” He said and turned towards the SUV, only to trip with an annoyed groan, causing everyone to briefly chuckle before they got in. The trip was quiet, the streets empty and it started to rain, making Dinky pensive how the others were doing, probably worried about her, the knights, Lukas, Patch and James. She looked at the patch on Spring’s shoulder that had SAS written on it. “Toby, why do you have that patch on your shoulder?” She asked him. “It’s a reminder of the Past. SAS is short for Special Air Service, a Special Forces unit of the British Army back then. Founded in the Second World War, responsible for intelligence gathering, sabotage, and assassination and after the war, it became a Counter-Terrorism unit afterwards, coming to prominence with their dramatic ending of a terrorist siege at the Iranian Embassy in London in 1980, where their zip line assault through the windows was broadcast live on both main British television channels in prime time on a public holiday. I highly have respect for them, trying to keep them honored.” He explained with a sad voice and the Knights and James rolled their eyes. He's at it again. “Sounds like a good idea to me. Everyone who fought to protect earth should be remembered.” The filly replied. “Yes, they should be remembered. Most people were respectful of the surviving war veterans that were still out there back then. Some might even offer them a friendly smile. Still, there were plenty of people who couldn't do anything but blame them. As such, it won’t be easy for us to find shelter. The City Centers are out of the question, security is high, checkpoints and scanners everywhere. Plus, there is the propaganda. Resistance mugshots, surveillance footage, renderings, anything to put XCOM into the light. We can’t afford this kind of attention.” The Specialist explained and suddenly stopped the car. “What’s the holdup?” Midnight asked surprised and Toby pointed ahead. “Rural Checkpoint. We can’t use the Rover, it would blow our cover immediately." “Then we will have to walk, there is no other way around it.” Lukas concluded. “Yes. Midnight, take our weapons and gear, so we can pass through without raising suspicion.” Toby said. “Okay, what about Dinky?” The stallion asked with concern, she looked at him with a worried expression. “I know you can sneak past, but I’d say she goes with us, with her, we could fool the guards easier.” Dinky thought for a moment. “I trust you here.” With that as answer, the Knights moved out with the weapons and gear of the two XCOM members, while the filly with the two humans and one trooper moved towards the checkpoint. One of the guards made a stop sign. “You do realize curfew’s still in effect? Civilians aren’t allowed outside until absolutely necessary. Where are you going?” Toby quickly replied, “My daughter slept over at my friend’s house…”He pointed to Jessie, who nodded. “I went to pick her up. We’re on our way home now.” The Knights watched from a safe distance, yet close enough to interfere as Fletcher got worried. “He suspects something.” “Stay calm.” Midnight replied. “You all right, little girl?” The Guard asked Dinky as she was slightly scared. “She’s trembling…Something wrong?” “She…she’s cold…We really have to get her home fast.” The Brite replied and wrapped an arm around her. “Sorry, Sir, but we got to be careful. Terrorists are around and our guys are nervous. You should hurry on home.” The guard stepped aside and Toby smiled. “Thanks.” They walked through the checkpoint, relieved it worked. “Hey, wait a minute!” The same trooper yelled and they stopped, slowly turning around in fear. “He knows, Midnight! They’re gonna arrest them!” Wolf said to him. “Don’t do anything.” The grey stallion replied. Neither she nor Fletcher did protest, they trusted him. Dinky slightly trembled as the trooper looked at her, fearing they had been discovered. “You’re dropped this.” He said and reached for what looked like a photo of Toby and James, apparently mistaking it for hers. “Thank you.” The girl took the photo with a smile. “You’re welcome.” The group then moved on, meeting up with the knights once they were far enough away. “I really thought for a moment that they had us.” Günther let out a sigh of relief. “Yeah. Gyro made a scan while he was with you, Midnight. He detected a nearby train depot. We could sneak on one of the trains to get to a town and radio for help.” Toby explained. “Risky, but our only chance right now.” Midnight replied with unease in his voice. They carefully moved toward the location of the depot, coming to a small hill where they had a good view of it. A train was there, ready for departing, only guarded by a small squad of troopers. “We only have one chance at this,” Günther said and the others nodded. All guards had their back to the intruders, so it was easy to sneak towards the nearest train cart and get in without getting detected. Yet, nobody dared to say a word, out of fear the ADVENT troops might discover them as the train moved until it stopped and suddenly moved upwards, like it was lifted, hearing a loud engine, like of a jet engine. They suspected they were now in the air, also staying silent until they heard how the noise stopped and a faint rumble could be heard as the cart touched the ground, appearing to have reached its destination. Lukas carefully opened the door, finding themselves at a small ADVENT outpost. “Well, that’s convenient. I can hack the communications relay, I can send a signal to the Avenger.” Spring sounded confident. “Okay, we watch your back,” Jessie replied and the Specialist carefully made his way towards the relay in the middle of the outpost, until a building created a blind spot for them. I hope he makes it. Dinky thought with worry as a few minutes passed and he didn’t return. Patch's GREMLIN buzzed in annoyance, it's internal systems compensating for the stream of swear words that came out of Patch's mouth as he grew impatient. Come on, come on! The signal was slowly getting through but this was getting risky. Something was delaying it, like the hack had been discovered but there were no alarms. Still, the longer Dinky was here, the more dangerous it could become for her and he couldn't risk her life. Luckily, a green light appeared on his screen. Finally! Now let's- His thoughts were derailed when a plasma shot flew straight through his GREMLIN's protection, hitting the antenna straight on. "Whoa!" He dived to cover as an ADVENT patrol had come out of a blind spot where his friends couldn't see them. “Damnit! Cover him, I get us an escape out of here!” James said and the others nodded, firing at every ADVENT soldier they saw, while the filly pressed herself against a wall. Dinky stayed in cover, trying to stay calm as she heard an engine revving, and it wasn't just her. The guards at the entrance turned towards the gate in surprise as a large, white, ADVENT van headed straight for it. James rammed through the gate, the guards barely jumped out of the way as the van came to a stop right next to the ponies. They all wasted no time to get in and she spotted Patch running towards it, making a dash towards the passenger door. She shrieked as blood splattered on the side of the van. It wasn't Alien blood as she noticed that James' expression was horrified. "PATCH!" Author's Note A reference and a historic event hidden in this chapter Chapter 10: Old WorldChapter 10: Old World “That one...stung...a bit...” Toby managed to say before he slowly collapsed, James caught him and put him on the passenger seat. He then slammed on the accelerator, driving out of the outpost as fast as he could, Dinky and Fletcher used their most advanced healing spells on Toby, it would keep their friend from outright dying out due to blood loss. However, that didn't stop him from dying from shock or something else, as he was bleeding badly from the chest. “We got ADVENT on our tail!” Midnight yelled as sirens blared and squad cars chased them. “Keep them off!” Jessie yelled as he tried to keep the van steady as he entered the roads, Lukas, Wolf and Midnight opened the rear doors and opened fire in the pursuers, again aiming for the tires or drivers. One squad car came dangerously close, so Midnight used his wings to jump over to it and rammed his blade into the engine, then flew back to the van. The engine started to smoke, then exploded and the driver lost control, crashing into a pole, creating a blockade for the other cars, preventing them from continuing their pursuit. “I think we lost them!” Lukas was relived as James drove into a forest, near a mountain. “Good, but we need to be careful, it will be just a matter of time before they search this forest and they won’t give up quickly,” Jessie warned as he stopped his expressions became confused. “A dead end?” “Something’s not right…why would a road end at a mountain that way?” Midnight wondered and tapped the mountain, hearing a metal sound coming from it. “Hmm…” He walked from one side of the rock to the other and found what appeared to be an encrypted pad, hidden under fake moss. “Would you look at that.” James in return used his pad to get activate the system, he wasn’t as skilled as his friend, but still managed to do it as the pad flashed green. They all stepped back in awe as the rock formation slid upwards, while the ground beyond it tilted down. The sound of old generators greeted their ears as it opened up, revealing a clean, concrete tunnel going down into the mountain itself and long, fluorescent strip lights in the middle of the roof blinked on, at least some of them. “Wow…” The Sniper mumbled before turning towards Dinky and Fletcher, barely catching sight of Toby's ragged breathing. “How is he?” “Critical, but stable. We must hurry.” Fray replied as the GREMLIN gave out a warning beep, meaning there was no time to waste. They got into the van and entered the mountain, rocks slid down and water emerged from the end, as if a stream had suddenly decided to flow through. And soon the ravine was partially flooded, and there was no sign of an entrance ever being there. Inside, Günther carefully down the ramp all the way down into the roots of the mountains, eventually coming to a large garage big enough for tricks, having a loading bay. There was another exit, collapsed, next to it a large, broken glass tube. The half opened door, half-melted, half-collapsed, hinted there had been a battle some time ago, but faded papers that had become part of the floor, abandoned boxes and abandoned equipment on tables hinted the place was left in a hurry. “Where are we?” Dinky asked as Wolf and Midnight opened the door, so she, Lukas, James and Fletcher could carry Patch in. “I don’t know, but it’s very old and not from ADVENT as far as I can tell,” James replied as he looked around and saw a table with medical supplies and a stretcher. “Perfect!” They carefully placed the injured man on the stretcher. “I’m afraid he lost a lot of blood, he needs a transfusion,” Fletcher told him with concern. The sniper smiled weakly. “Good thing that he and I have the same blood type, and the supplies are old, but still have everything we need.” “Okay then, I will do the procedure,” Fletcher said as Günther pulled his sleeved back and Dinky gently held his hand in order to calm keep him calm as Fray injected the needle. “You’re doing great.” The filly’s voice was calming as James’s expression was slightly one of pain, yet smiled at her words until it was done. “That should it. Let’s pray he makes it.” Fletcher sounded concerned as he finished. “Yes...He will need him to contact the Avenger, this place looks like it has barely power.” James noticed that the lights were flickering, “We need power to get a strong signal.” “Agreed. Question is where is it located, we have to wait until Toby wakes up.” They all nodded and had some rations, looking over Spring, who was now breathing easier, his pulse stable, and his skin now looked much more healthy, with his GREMLIN monitoring him. Jessie sighed. “I really hope he makes it. I can’t imagine what to do without him.” “I hear ya.” Midnight replied with a weak smile as he looked at them, they returned it. "I know we aren’t in a good situation, but I am sure the others will look for us” Lukas sounded confident of it. “We can only hope and pray for the best, staying positive,” Dinky added as they heard Patch groan, slowly opening his eyes. “Ugh...Bloody teenage drivers...Is it time for tea, mum?” He mumbled as Jessie helped him up with a smile. “No, and we need a have a talk about those magazines I found under your bed, young man,” Jessie replied with a faked English accent, trying to sound female, yet failed miserably, not that the others minded. Patch leaned heavily on the table, half-chuckled, half-coughed as he replied, “What, Warhammer?” He laughed, then winced, placing his hand on the side of his torso. “What happened?” Dinky was maybe too young to understand but something told her not to ask them what they meant with magazines as James answered his friend’s question. “When you were jumping into the van, a lucky stray shot got you in the back… I think it went right through you…” Upon hearing this, Toby winced and lifted his shirt, confused, yet relieved to see no scar. “The healing spells I and Dinky used prevented any permanent marks.” The green unicorn explained and he and the others found themselves in a hug by the specialist. “You saved my life…” His voice was soft and one of gratefulness. “We only did what was right, helping a friend in need.” Dinky smiled at him as he let go and looked around. “Where are we anyway?” “Some kind of underground base. And this room appears to be a locker room.” Lukas replied as he took notice of a looker with his surname, looking at it in awe as he saw the first name. “No…It can’t be…” The others wondered what was wrong until they saw the name too. Nils Barber. “F-father…” Lukas mumbled in disbelief. “So…we are at the old XCOM base, who thought of that?” Jessie commented at the sight upon realizing. Lukas couldn’t describe the feeling that went through him as he walked towards the locker, opening it as it was unlocked. Inside was a diary, completely fine, free from dust. He couldn’t help himself as he opened and read it, the first entry was on 1st March. Just got accepted into XCOM. I feel excited, yet a bit scared, but I can’t let it happen that my family gets abducted or killed by the invaders. I have to stay strong for them. The others said nothing, they understood Lukas’ feeling to want to know what happened to his father as he read about the first mission of his father My first mission, preventing an Alien Abduction, went better than I have expected, no causalities. If we can keep this up, the aliens will never know what hit them. The former trooper flipped the side, reading the entry that was made in early April. The aliens attack civilian targets. We must stop them before casualties get too high. God…I hope my family is safe from those…Chrysalids… Lukas smiled weakly, he luckily never had encountered a Chryssalid during the invasion, yet understood his father’s worry. “Mother and I were safe in a shelter back then…” He mumbled then read the next entry. It appears we found a base of the Aliens. Hopefully, it’s infiltration will put a stop to this invasion, or at least delay it. The name of the operation…’Operation Health’. Where the hell do they come up with these names anyway? After action report. Captured enemy commander and a device of unknown purpose. We also found some of the abducted victims, getting experimented on. God…makes me even more worried about my family’s safety. It made Lukas relived that he never was victim of the abductions back then, yet it made him realize that the gene clinics served the same purpose as he read the next entry that was made just a few days later. The Aliens somehow managed to find our base and attacked it, but we managed to repel it. Now we have to find out how they managed to do this. We got also reports about alien sympathizers, called EXALT. If it isn’t bad enough, now we have to fight each other? Once this is all over, I spent time with my family, for sure. “Sadly, it never happened, dad… Lukas let a tear escape as he read the next entry that had been made in late May. We recovered a prisoner held by EXALT, a French woman called Annette Durand, apparently being able to wield the same powers as those Sectoids…This just gets better and better. 13. June We just rescued some prisoners that can also wield Psionic powers. Dr. Vahlen is confident they can use those powers for XCOM, I hope it will be worth the risk we took. 29. July We managed to take down a UFO that appeared to be a command ship and captured an enemy leader, called “Ethereal” or “Elder” by Dr. Vahlen. Something tells me we will regret this. 2..August I know it. A big alien ship appeared at the coast of South America. But we managed to locate the HQ of EXALT and bring it down for good. I doubt the remaining forces will be a problem. Now it’s time to finish on the Aliens again. Lukas started to shake as he read the last entries. It is time, I have been selected to the team that will assault the mothership of the invaders. Annette volunteered to use the device we recovered to get on the ship. If I should not survive, my dear wife and son, I love you with all my heart. I do this for you. We did it. We defeated them. But Annette sacrificed himself, so the ship wouldn’t destroy Earth as it was about to explode. I will never forget her sacrifice. This is the end. Several more of those motherships appeared, we are under attack and the Council ordered us to stand down. I’m so sorry, my dear family, so very sorry… I failed. Now, the man started to sob at what he had read, the others looked at him with sympathy and James spoke up, “Your father was a great man, he did everything to protect you, sacrificing himself. Thanks to him, Earth survived. Dinky hugged the former trooper. “He will always be with you in your heart.” Barber slowly started to smile, stroking her mane. “You’re right, he did a brave thing. Now, let’s find a way to contact the Avenger.” “We are in luck, I found a switchbox just around the corner, I might be able to get it running again. Patch explained and walked up to it, inspecting it. It was dented, apparently having been hit in the attack. “This could take a while, Fletcher can you give me a hoof?” “Sure thing.” Dinky looked around, wondering how many had survived or died before she heard two screams of pain, seeing sparks coming from the direction the box was. “Okay…still has juice…” Toby said with a pained voice before the light switched on. “Nice job, now let’s take a look around.” Midnight suggested and stepped out into the hallway, and suddenly screamed and the others heard dull thumps. They turned into the direction, seeing a staircase. The echoing of a throat and hoof steps sounded, seeing the grey stallion coming out, fine but out of breath. “Guys…found a…containment facility…At least I think it is one…” “Well then, let’s take a look, there must be a communications device somewhere.” Toby suggested and they walked down, coming to a room with a big glass tube in the middle of it. “I think this is where they held captured aliens, possible even interrogated them somehow.” He added and pressed some buttons on the console and a video activated. It showed a man wearing a blue suit, his eyes hidden by sunglasses, his hair was short and black hair, looking unimpressed at two arms that extended out to his left and right, then walked calmly towards to the wall before a gate blocked the view and it ended. “That was….creepy…”Dinky said with fear in her voice. “Yeah, those were the Thin Men back then. Makes me kinda think of you, Midnight.” James pointed out and the stallion looked in confusion at him. “How that?” “Well, I guess you would react just like the Thin man if you would be in his place. Plus, if you had to take your old form as a disguise but still have the white eyes, sunglasses would help to hide it, just like the Thin Man.” He explained and Midnight chuckled. “It did work, actually...For over sixty years. The Bizarre Demi-Blindness of Professor Dusk Shine...Someone even wrote a book on it. No-one thought to actually take off the glasses.” “I took a look at the layout.” Toby interrupted them, “Turns out the Engineering and laboratory are right next to it.” The group decided to check the Engineering out first, the room looked like a small factory, robotic arms and conveyor belt took the major of it, several white-colored weapons with a red glow and weapons with a green glow were scattered on the tables, along with corpses of Engineers, causing Dinky to look away. “Poor guys. Bradford mentioned how the mountain housing XCOM headquarters is the final resting place of many XCOM operatives.” James said with pity and sadness in his voice. “But I am pretty sure those Laser and Plasma weapons still work.” “Very likely. I wonder what the lab has in store.” Toby wondered and they all took a look. Like the Engineering, it wasn’t a pleasant sight. Corpses of scientists were scattered around in the lab with typical lab equipment. There were also wrecks of what looked like flat saucers and spider-like robots laid around, together with squid-like robot wrecks and massive bipedal robots wrecks with round, grey, skull-like heads. “If I remember correctly, Central told once those saucers and spider-like robots are called cyberdisc, the squid robots are Seekers and those massive wrecks were the previous models of the Sectopod,” Toby explained. “Sounds like the Aliens were well equipped back then,” Fletcher commented with a hint of fear in his voice. “Yes, they were, but so was XCOM. Seeing all this reminds me of something…” Jessie mumbled as he slowly started to grin. “Bradford told us a lot what he went through to rebuild XCOM. One of his stories was to recover an ‘artifact of power’ in a stasis pod and…you will never believe what it was according to him.” “Well?” The filly got curious. “The sweater he wore during the invasion.” He replied and the Knights and Lukas shook their heads in disbelief. “You've got to be kidding! That’s ridiculous!” Wolf said, trying to hide a chuckle. Günther shrugged. “That was what he told us all, I guess he hit his head or was drunk back then.” “I guess we will never know the truth.” Patch added, “Anyway, we might be able to send a message from the Mission Control in the top part of the base.” The bat pony pointed to the floor. “Lead the way.” They moved out, walking past the hanger, seeing a wreck of a fighter jet and of a saucer-like interceptor, appearing to be a hybrid of human and alien technology. “Those were the interceptors of XCOM during the invasion, shooting down UFOs. The first is called Raven, it was the standard Interceptor by XCOM, armed with Avalanche missiles that were upgraded with Earth's best targeting software. They engaged the aliens in the sky for quite some time successfully.” James explained and pointed to the other interceptor. “And this is the Firestorm, the product of the reverse-engineering of many of the aliens' UFO technologies and integrating them into a hybrid fighter craft. They engaged the heavier and bigger UFOs.” “Sounds like those pilots did quote a brave work. Wonder though why the Aliens never dismantled the base and left it that way.” Wolf mumbled. “I guess they never saw reason in that with XCOM destroyed.” Patch suspected as they took the stairs up, reaching their destination. Similarly to the Avenger, there several terminals and a big screen on the wall, along with a real-time holographic representation of the Earth In the middle that flickered as the power turned on. Also, corpses were scattered around. “Sorry, mate,” Toby said as he pushed a body of a console and started to use it, Gyro buzzed as he did so for a few seconds. “Got it, message’s out and received, they are on their way.” “That’s good to hear.” Dinky smiled, then remembered something. “What happened to your old friend?” Toby smiled weakly. “I vouched for him to be sent to a settlement. It was the least I could do for him.” “Did he know anything about your girlfriend and family?” The filly asked with hope. “His smile faded as his lowered his head. “Sadly no. My girlfriend’s hometown was wiped out by the fog pods, so she’s mostly like deceased. And since SAS was disbanded after the surrender, even he couldn’t find out anything.” Suddenly, an alert ringed and tore them out, the screen blinked red and Spring took a look. “Bugger it, ADVENT found us! We won’t have much time.” “Agreed. We should arm ourselves with the plasma weapons, they are better than the magnetic ones.” Günther suggested. “And we could use the wrecks of the alien machines for traps to delay them,” Fletcher added. “Good thought. I also looked at the layout, the entrance we used is the only one in, all others have collapsed.” Patch replied and they prepared everything. They placed the wrecks along the tunnel in several defensive lines, taking position on a balcony on the mission Control, having a perfect view. It didn’t take long for ADVENT to arrive and move in, a few Mutons and Chrysalids were with them as the scanners showed, causing Toby to shiver. “Why have it to be Chrysalids? James gently patted his shoulder. “Calm down, Toby.” “I've seen what they can do...I've seen what they leave behind...” The Specialist exclaimed with an uneasy voice and expression. “Calm down! Focus on the mission. We have to keep Dinky safe, we came this far, we can’t fail now.” “I can still hear the screams...” “Take a deep breath and calm down, we have to keep her safe. Push everything else out of your mind. Focus!” His friend advised and he took a deep breath. “Alright, damn it. Alright.” The ADVENT soldiers never knew what expected them as one of the Sectopod wrecks fired its powerful chest canon, the extremely devastating attack killed several soldiers that moved in groups, surviving stragglers got strangled by the Seekers, choking them unconscious, while the Cyberdiscs fired their beam weapons, punching even right through the Muton armor, killing them instantly. Other Sectopods fired barrages of explosive mini-bombs, killing or delaying the enemy even more. Still, they slowly pushed forward but it gave the defenders the time they needed and Patch exclaimed, “Let’s give them a proper welcome!” as the first enemies closed in. The door exploded and all defenders opened fire as ADVENT moved in, getting mowed down. Dinky stayed in cover, resupplying them with ammo and called out enemies, seeing how Toby fired a plasma rifle the Bolt caster on his back. Midnight and Wolf flew through the hostiles, slicing them with their melee weapons. A Chryssalid tried to leap onto the balcony, James shot it midair with his pistol and it fell dead to the ground. “Nice try!” He taunted. “Don't let your guard down! These ones are pissed!” Toby commented as the attackers came wave after wave. “Doesn’t look any different than they are in any other fight we had!” James replied. You don't know them like I do! You don't see the rage in their eyes! They're mad, trust me!” “Focus on the battle at hand, and allow us to do the same!” Jessie yelled, slightly frustrated as he scored a headshot on a Stun Lancer. “Okay, Okay! No more angry Jabberers, just a bunch of very obedient henchmen, colt and relentless…” “Toby, please pay attention to the battle at hand!” Günther reminded him as he reloaded. “Gotcha!” Before Dinky could react, she saw something flying out of the entrance, blinking green. “Grenade!” She yelled and instinctively dived out of the way, the explosion deafened her hearing and her vision was blurry. The filly groaned in pain, barely able to look up as she saw that all her friends had been blasted off the balcony, lying dazed on the ground, the hostiles surrounded them. Wolf attempted to grab her Alloy Cannon, the plasma version of the shotgun but a trooper kicked it out of her hoof, holding her at gunpoint, Fletcher and Midnight stayed down, Lukas, Jessie and Toby knelled, their hands behind their heads. Dinky watched in shock as the officer shouted out orders, she knew she had to act fast, but couldn’t take on every hostile, looking frantically around for a way to help her friends. It can’t end that way! It can’t! She closed her eyes, waiting for the shots that would end, it, flinching at the sounds and bodies, hitting the ground. “Looks like we got here just in time!” The voice of Kyle sounded in her ears and she slowly opened her eyes, seeing all hostiles dead, Kyle, Heavy, Lena, Bianca and Jane stood at the entrance, their expressions were one of relief. Only now, Dinky noticed that Bianca was wearing red colored armor with the same helmet and wings of the flying red enemy they had defeated earlier, hovering in the air before landing next to James. “Are you okay, my love?” She asked concerned as she helped him up. “I am fine.” “Lukas, you’re okay!” His wife was happy as she hugged him. Now, Dinky also took notice that the squad was now also armed with Plasma weapons, visible by the green glow they emitted. Bianca then looked up to Dinky and in a swift motion, she vaulted up to her. “Ae you hurt?” “I’m fine. “The child replied as the woman gently picked her up and jumped down. “Let’s get out of here.” The flight back to the Avenger was quiet, the Skyranger repaired, they all were glad to be back in one piece, as Central looked after them. “Welcome back, I had feared the worst.” “Yes, Bradford, it’s nice to be back. I found the diary of my father.” Lukas explained and the elderly man showed a brief expression of sadness. “You can be proud of your father. He fought with determination to keep you and his wife safe at all costs. I can’t remember much when we were attacked, but I think he saved my life back then.” “Of course I am proud.” He then, together with the others went to the bar to drunk something, Dinky played with Edward as he asked his friends, “Any idea how they found us so fast? “I can only think of that they tracked our signal.” Midnight suggested and turned to Jane. “What did we miss?” “Actually, not much. We found that those flying enemies are called Archon. Tygan managed to study the weapon they use and created a new Blade for us Rangers, the Fusion Blade. It can set enemies aflame.” Wolf whistled. “Sounds quite useful.” Suddenly the power cut out and the ship titled, causing the children to scream before Fletcher caught them with their magic and everyone held on. “What’s happening?! Edward asked scared. “I don’t know.” Toby hugged him to calm him down as Central’s voice sounded on the intercom. “We’re going down! UFO contact has disabled our systems! Brace yourselves!” Suddenly, the ship stabilized itself and red emergency lights went own. “That was close,” Kyle said as he stood up before the ship shook in regular intervals. “Menace 1-5, report at once!” Central’s voice buzzed on the intercom and they all did as told, Dinky, after taking a deep breath, grabbed her GREMLIN, thinking they might need her. “The situation is critical – primary Avenger systems are offline and hostiles are moving to engage. Shen, any updates?” Bradford asked her as she checked the systems. “Critical system failure – the Avenger is dead in the water. I’m diverting reserve power to the scanners- and they’re picking up a powerful radiation source nearby – we need to locate and destroy whatever it is disrupting our systems.” “There’s also a bigger problem. We’re picking up heavy comm. Traffic – dozen of ADVENT transports are inbound on our position – and they got battleships in tow. The Aliens are sending everything they got – we have to get this ship off the ground or we may not make it out of this one.” With that in mind, the squad moved down the ramp, seeing a yellow beam in the distance, raging into the sky. Dinky took position on the ramp with the three snipers, using her GREMLIN to take a look. Just down the first, next to a house was a huge needle-like device that generated the impulse that prevented them from escaping, guarded by three Chrysalids. The rest of the squad moved towards it, using the trees as cover as an Officer, together with a Shieldbearer and an Archon were in sight. The Officer pointed at the Grenadier and yelled out orders, firing a shot, but the Russian only flinched as the armor did its job. “Only a flesh wound!” Then the Shieldbearer deployed his shield to protect his allies and the Archon flew towards Sasha, only to panic as he spotted Bolster. The Shieldbearer could barely react as the Archon fired at him, killing him instantly and all shield collapsed. Jessie’s lover brought the Archon down with a headshot, James himself killed the officer as Dinky healed Sasha. “Frag out! He yelled as he shot a grenade between the Chrysalids, they let out cries of pain before Patch, Kyle and Midnight finished them off. Wolf and Jane the fired a few shots at the Disrupter, but it only sparked. “That thing is very robust!” “Not for long!” Fletcher charged up a powerful arrow and fired, the disrupter got destroyed in a big explosion. “Target destroyed. Excellent work, Menace 1-5. Shen, what’s our status?” Bradford asked. “Whatever it was, destroying it seems to have lifted the disruption field. Engine control systems are coming back online. We should be clear to take off within sixty seconds.” “Good, because the situation just got worse. Resistance outposts are reporting enemy transports on the move across this region. They’re getting ready for an all-out assault.” Bradford warned and the squad made its way back to the ramp as another a transport arrived, dropping off an officer and Priest, yet were shot by Fletcher and James as they jumped out. “We made it!” Abstraction raised a fist into the air as he cheered upon reaching the ramp. “We did all great. The Avenger lives to fight another day.” Dinky praised them. The green unicorn let out a breath of relief that it was over and they could go. “Help!” Dinky screamed and everyone turned around. “Dinky! No!” Fletcher yelled as he saw how she got dragged away, it was a Viper on a transport above them. The filly struggled as the Alien bound her, seeing how two ADVENT trooper suppressed the XCOM squad on the ground. Dinky’s vision slowly became blurry, she tried to breathe but the Viper had her tight in its grip and she blacked out. Kyle took aim and fired four shots but Midnight held his rifle down, causing him to miss. “We can’t risk it!” He then grabbed his radio. “Central, they got Dinky!” He reported and they were all forced to watch as the ADVENT transport flew away. Author's Note Another reference hidden in here Chapter 11 RetaliationChapter 11: Retaliation Dinky groaned as she regained consciousness, rubbing her head. What happened? Where am I? Her eyes went wide as she found herself in what appeared to be a facility beneath the ocean, several large pods were scattered around the room, and a large statue of an Elder was in the middle of it. “The Temporal One...The daughter of the rift-walker and the mare who should not have been...Truly, you are a curiosity.” A voice echoed through the room, sounding emotionless. It was eerie, dissonant. As if speaking through several other voices and she saw how the pods glowed purple and something materialized in front of her, looking identical to the statue, wearing a red coat, the mask was golden. An actual Elder. It was astonishing for the young pony, yet confusing. “H-h-how...wh-what are you doing?” “Your power begets our conversation, willingly or otherwise. Know that, already, you are ours. What remains is for you to decide how willing you choose to be. Would you help your world...or hinder it?” The Elder asked in return. Dinky got more confused, why should she help them? “I...I want you to stop...I want to leave the humans alone.” “Alone? With what? With their wars? With their disasters? With their madness that has gripped their civilization since its beginning and endures as long as there are none to oversee them?” The unicorn did not understand. “Why should you oversee them?” “Who better? Gaze upon us, child. Know of our power, our capabilities. Even glancing at a being beyond your comprehension, rich as your world is with magic, you understand that it is in our reach to teach humanity to live without hatred, without ignorance...without suffering.” The Elder explained to her. It made no sense to Dinky, why the brutality then? “But what about the attacks you made?! The people you killed?!” “Retaliation, definition; to repay harm done to you upon those responsible for it. Our wrath is directed upon those who would see us suffer, who would prefer themselves to suffer than live in gratitude to that which they refuse to understand.” Dinky started to shake, remembering why XCOM fought for. “You don't understand! Humanity didn't ask to be overseen! They don't want to be overseen!” “...A sign they need to be.” The Elder said and vanished. The filly couldn’t believe what she just heard. The aliens had attacked humanity, how could they see their cause as just? Seeing it necessary to watch over them? “Why….Why did you invade them? They never did anything to you…” She mumbled in confusion. “Our intentions for humanity were never hostile.” A different voice sounded in her ears, also echoing but sounded caring, friendly, and she saw an Elder which cloak and mask was colored blue. “What…what do you mean?” “Our home was the oldest of worlds and the first to be consumed. Billions were lost. When we first encountered Earth we wept for a broken world. A tortured race crying out to the stars in agony. We answered their call. We saw their true potential. The invasion was a test. But humanity did not fail. They succeeded beyond measure.” The Elder explained to her. Dinky tried to make sense of it. “Bu-but what has this to do with me?” “You are the child of one who conquered time itself. Truly you were meant for something more. With your aid, your powers, we will work in unity to prevent your world from suffering the same fate as ours.” The pony thought about it, shaking. It made sense to a degree but still… “Why should I help you? After everything that happened?” She wanted to know. “To protect, pony kind and humanity, child. You have nothing to fear.” “B-but…I can’t…” She stuttered. “I don’t want to kill….” “You won’t have to.” The Alien replied it raised an arm, the hand glowed purple and suddenly, Dinky felt sleepy, closing her eyes. On board the Avenger, Fletcher grew worried. “I can’t believe this happened. We should have done something!” Wolf put a hoof on his shoulder. “Don’t blame yourself, Fletch, there was nothing we could have done without putting her at risk.” “We'll get her back in no time. The information we've attained will give us a head start.” Midnight added with a weak smile. “Yes, Fletcher, she means a lot for all of us and we won’t rest until she’s safe.” Kyle had an honest expression with the others. “Much appreciated.” The stallion now smiled weakly. “I….I just hope they won’t…” the young boy trembled and Toby hugged him. “We won’t let that happen, Edward.” It was late in the night as the Knights got called by Bradford. “We located her magic signature in a therapy clinic but we can’t confirm it yet.” “I can take a look.” Midnight offered and Central nodded. The grey stallion stepped into the Skyranger, staying in the shadows one arriving at the city center, having no problem to get to the facility, seeing many ADVENT troops guarding it. Guess I am on the right track. He climbed into a vent at the side of the building, waiting until a trooper had walked past before proceeding inside. A trooper was patrolling inside, the Knight followed him without being seen, towards a door, seeing a scientist doing maintenance on a stasis pod. “I will do as ordered, I just need additional time.” The man said to the trooper before hearing a strange sound and turned towards the soldier. “Did you say…something?” Blood splattered from the trooper and he fell dead to the ground, the man looked in fear at the bat pony. “You’re one of those!” He took a step back in fear. “You must understand. I had no choice…” He tried to explain before Midnight knocked him swiftly out. He then looked at the stasis pod. “Oh, Luna…what did they do to you, Dinky?” He mumbled in shock as he saw the filly inside a stasis suit, yet didn’t hesitate to report. “I have visual confirmation.” “Are you sure?” Central asked. “Eternal Knights are always sure.” “I’ll take your word for it. Cover your tracks and get out.” “Copy that. I promise we get you out of here, Dinky.” He looked at her, then got out of the facility the same way he got in, waiting on a roof for the rest of the squad to arrive. It took around thirty minutes for the Skyranger to get here and his fellow Knights, together with the humans got out. “We will need a distraction to get in.” Patch figured out and looked around, spotting an ADVENT van at the end of the road. “That should do it. Let's get cracking.” The others nodded, getting into position as he walked up to it and placed an explosive charge on it. “If they spot me, take the sides and be ready to move in on my signal.” “What signal?” Wolf asked before they all got it. “Patch, don't be an idiot. We can get you out of this if it comes that far.” Midnight tried to assure him. “I very much hope so but if those guys see the charge going off, we're all in danger, especially Dinky. This could be our only chance.” The Brit pointed out. “And...If I don't make it out of this alive... Pick up my pieces...and bury them in Surrey.” “Hey, you there!” A voice yelled and he saw an ADVENT officer, together with a few troops coming towards him. Toby knew he had to do something and fast, so he did the first thing that came into his mind. “♫And did those feet in ancient time. Walk upon England’s mountains green? And was the holy Lamb of God. On England’s pleasant pastures seen?♫” He sang and the soldiers looked confused at each other, yet closed in. “What...the buck...is this?” The grey stallion asked nonplussed. “...William Blake, I think.” James replied. “♫And did the Countenance Divine. Shine forth upon our clouded hills? And was Jerusalem builded here. Among these dark Satanic mills?” In the moment they stood before him and he felt the explosion, closing his eyes and grunted in pain. “Gonna feel that tomorrow.” Then he realized he was actually far away from it, next to Fletcher, his horn glowing. “Do you think I let you die that easily?” The stallion asked and the Specialist realized he had been teleported away, tisin being an aftereffect. Yet the explosion had the desired effect as almost all troops investigated it, only a handful was left outside. Wolf flew between them, slicing them in a blink of an eye, allowing the rest to get into the clinic. “Uncle Fletcher’s here, Dinky!” The green unicorn said as he pulled the switch to open the pod, fearing the worst as it slowly opened, his heart raced. It almost skipped a beat at what he saw once it was open. “it’s empty!” “How?! We were only gone for five minutes!” Midnight exclaimed in surprise. “They must have moved her out of your view.” Jessie concluded, “Let’s get out here, there’s nothing else we can do.” Heavy used a grenade to blow a hole into the wall of the backside of the clinic and they all evacuated. “Damn it…We were so close…” Fletcher lowered his head in defeat. Lena out a hand on his shoulder. “We will find her, safe and sound, don’t give up.” He smiled weakly in response and it was early morning as they came back. Edward looked at them with hope but quickly understand once he saw their lowered disappointed expressions, shaking. “Please…don’t tell me they….” Before he could finish, Lukas looked at him with a weak smile. “The hope dies last. No matter where she is, we will find her and safe her.” “Attention, Menace 5, report to Central at once.” The intercom buzzed and they did as told, his expression was one of slightly worry. “We picked up an intermittent distress signal. And as far as we can tell the aliens are hitting back against one of the resistance outposts. It doesn’t look good. I need you to move in as fast as possible. We also discovered traits of unicorn magic.” “Then Dinky must be here, there’s no time to waste!” Fletcher exclaimed, not wanting her to die and they got back into the Skyranger, hoping it wasn’t too late. Parts of the settlement were burning as they arrived, Wolf scouted ahead, seeing cowering civilian behind a fence, moving towards him, noticing a Stun Lancer running towards him. She shot him in the head, sending the soldier backwards into the dusty ground. “You’re covered, go!” The mare yelled and the civilian moved towards the Skyranger. Midnight then moved up, noticing what appeared to a cocoon near a house, a Chryssalid emerged from it and rushed towards him. He reached for his Fusion Blade and slashed at it, setting the Alien on fire, it flared around before dying. “Starting to like this thing already.” Lena moved towards another civilian she spotted, but he collapsed and turned out to be a Faceless, she didn’t hesitate to shoot it, the plasma rifle burned right through the chest, killing it instantly. Fletcher scanned the area from a hill, noticing a shadow from behind the burning building, looking like a filly. “Guys, I think I found her!” “Good!” Midnight said and walked towards it, hearing a scream. A woman came across the corner, falling to the ground, bleeding from her arm. “Dinky, are you-“ He cut himself off in shock as the filly stepped out. She was dressed like an ADVENT Priest, but the armor was red like that of an officer, having a cape on the back, armed with a Magnetic rifle and Psi Amp, the former held by her magic. Dinky put a hoof to her chest, then raised it towards the sky as she looked at it and said something in the alien language. “Oh no…” Midnight mumbled in shock as the filly vaulted behind a crate for cover, then reached for the amp and sent a purple beam towards a Muton. The Alien aimed at Midnight and fired, grazing him and he cried in pain. “We have to neutralize her!” Just as Midnight had said this, the filly looked at Heavy and pointed at him, while yelling and other ADVENT soldiers, together with a Viper came from behind her. They opened fire, suppressing the XCOM squad, forcing them into cover. “We can’t kill her!” Lena yelled. “Let me try something!” The female Sniper jumped up into the air on a tower, only to realize the young unicorn had her in her sight, firing a rapid burst of six rounds, hitting her into the chest, throwing her over with a cry of pain. “Damn it!” Fletcher then got an idea, focusing and teleported behind the ADVENT and Alien forces, flanking them and drew his pistol but was forced into cover by the same Muton. “I’m pinned down!” He yelled as he pressed himself against a stone wall, trying to think of a way how to stop this without hurting Dinky. I can’t hurt her! There has to be a- Suddenly something threw him to the ground and he felt a sudden stabbing pain in his chest. A piercing chill shot through him. The stallion struggled to get up, groaning in pain, holding his chest and looked at his hoof. It was covered it blood, he was bleeding, seeing the shot had come from Dinky as her rifle was smoking, it was the last thing he saw before collapsing. Fray’s friends looked in shock to see him lying in a puddle of his own blood, breathing heavily. “Fletcher!” Wolf yelled and let out an angry growl. “No! You bastards! You're dead! You're all bucking dead!” In a fit of Berserker like rage, she flew through the hostiles, slicing them, creating chaos as she tore through their ranks. Her ears twitched as she heard a faint sound, stopping as she realized it was sobbing, turning into it’s direction. Her comrades did too, surprised at what they saw. Dinky walked over to Fletcher, dropping to her knees with a lowered head, her forehooves grabbing his armor tightly, tears left her helmet. It came from her, she was crying at what she had just done, slowly standing up and looked at the sky. Suddenly she held her head and screamed in pain before falling to the ground. They all were shocked, yet Lena didn’t hesitate to check her and Fletcher as Wolf had neutralizing all other enemy forces, hoping it wasn’t too late for both of them. Her worried expression became one of relief. “They are both unconscious.” “That’s good to hear. Wolf said as she and Midnight grabbed the now stabilized Archer by the forelegs, Lena took Dinky in her arms and Patch checked on the woman, her face was one of surprise as she saw him. “T-Toby? Is that really you?” The Specialist was just as surprised, but stayed calm and focused. “Yes, it’s me and I am glad to see you are alive, but let’s get you to a safer place." They all were glad Dinky was so far alright but wondered what had caused her to fall unconscious as suddenly, Lena’s GREMLIM let out a warning beep and she took a look. “What? She’s deploying a cerebral haemorrhage!” “Then we should hurry!” Midnight replied and alerted the Avenger. Once onboard, Lena, Midnight and Wolf brought her to Tygan who scanned her. “It appears she has an implant in her skull, we must remove it immediately or we risk losing her.” “Are you sure you can do this?” Midnight asked with concern. “Yes, I did this before with the commander.” Dinky’s vision was blurry as she came to, hearing faintly a voice, “…Preparing final incision.” She saw what she could only describe as a tong, as she heard a female voice. “Her readings get erratic! Doctor!” Then saw how a scientist implanted something in her, feeling numb but it was very painful before everything went black. “No signal.” The filly slowly blinked and saw an Elder before her, it raised it’s hand and it glowed, overpowering her senses. “…pupillary response normal, Vitals stabilizing. Procedure complete.” It was Tygan’s voice, shining a flashlight into her eye before everything became black again. The filly couldn’t tell how long she was out, but her head was aching as she came to in a bed in the crew quarters, seeing Edward smiling at her. “Glad to see you've woken up. Must be a serve headache though.” He said with pity as she tried to get up, only to fall back. “Easy…Tygan said a chip was buried halfway into your skull.” You were out for the rest of the day.” Slowly, she remembered everything and saw Fletcher walking in, he was bandaged but appeared to be in good health otherwise, smiling weakly at her. Yet, she was filled with guilt, starting to shake and sobbed as she lowered her head. “I’m sorry…Fletcher…so very sorry that I…” He gently hugged her. “I am not mad at you, Dinky, you hadn’t control of your actions.” She sniffed. “T-thanks…” “…I never thought I’d see my girlfriend ever again but I hope Dinky’s fine.” Toby’s voice sounded in her ears and the middle-aged man walked in with the others, having a weak smile too and Dinky remembered. “T-Toby… I…did I…killed…I’m sorry…” The filly stuttered in guilt before he patted her back. “I don’t blame you, Dinky, I know you would never do that. My girlfriend survived, she should be released soon. She doesn’t blame you either.” He told her with an honest expression and she sighed. “That’s good to hear….” Yet, she was lost in thought. They said my friends would not be harmed. They did they lie? Or… She couldn’t finish as the Chief Scientist walked in. “It is good to hear you are woken up, Dinky. I found out what the purpose of the implant was.” “And that is?” Midnight asked curious. “Similarly to the implant the commander had, it was a conduit, passing a vast amount of data directly into Dinky’s cerebral cortex. Tactical combat simulations. The same as in ADDVENT officers in the Psionic network.” Wolf growled. “They made a war machine out of her.” “Indirectly, yes.” Tygan countered. “I analyzed her behavior, it was completely defensive, with her shots meant to incapacitate but not kill anyone that became a threat to her, it appears the Elders wanted to spare her the guilt of murder. Also, there’s something else.” He sounded slightly unease about it. “What?” Fletcher asked. The man took a deep breath. “The Psionic gate we recovered needs an organic signature. It is needed to activate the gate. It has to via the Network, but a direct interface would cause serve, if not fatal trauma to an unprepared central nervous System. Yet, Dinky has survived this, with the commander.” Dinky looked at him in confusion, trying to make sense as Fletcher protested with a worried expression, “B-b-but, she's still a child!” The others shared it. “I know, but the organic signature is the only key and both keys are needed.” Tygan replied. “But only if she wears the best armor!!” Fletcher demanded. “It was different.” Midnight pointed out, “The Stasis suit…” “Created the perfect interface to the network. Tailored to her specific biology. Of any candidate, she and the commander are the most likely to survive the connection.” “Most likely is not good enough.” Wolf added with concern, “Alone getting disconnected almost killed her.” “Yes, because the shock of having hurt Fletcher was too much. But it’s the only answer I can give you. And our only option to traverse the Alien portal.” The scientist countered. There was silence for a moment before the green stallion took the word. “No, I'm sorry, but this is not something I'm supporting.” Dinky looked at him with confusion. “But Fletch-“ “I'm sorry, Dinky, we're putting our hooves down. Our mission is very clear, get you home safely. Letting you do this defies logic.” Wolf cut her off. “This could be our only option.” Tygan replied to explain as Midnight replied, “Fine, I volunteer in her place.” Tygan sighed annoyed, losing his patience. “Sir...” “I've been through worse. I could get my head around it.” The bat pony added with a neutral expression. “No, no, you don't understand.” The doctor said, his annoyed tone becoming more audible. “Why the hay would we understand sending a kid to head a mission this deadly?!” Wolf exclaimed with a hint of anger. “Because Dinky is the only one here the Elders don't want to kill!” Tygan exclaimed and paused to take a deep breath. “I know this is bad. I realize you must feel awful doing this, I feel awful for even considering it, but none of us have the same chance of safety that she has. This is, quite honestly, our only option, and time is far too scarce for us to look for others. Please, for the people of earth, for everyone you've met here who has placed their trust in you, Dinky has to do this. No-one else.” In response, the Eternal Knights gazed around the room in uncertainty before Fletcher said, “Let me ask again. She'll have the best armor and sensors?” “Yes.” “We'll be in touch with her at all times?” The mare added. “Of course.” Midnight then took the word. “And we'll be allowed to help her if things go flanks-up.” “None of us will stop you.” Tygan replied and the grey stallion shook his head. “My mind must be waning after all these years...Very well.” “Don’t worry Fletcher, I am sure we can make something.” Dinky’s voice sounded and they all looked confused at her. Her expression was neutral, yet her voice sounded slightly mature, a purple glow surrounded her eyes and horn. “It is our only chance, we can’t afford to lose it.” “What…” Kyle mumbled in awe. “Ah, I forgot, it appears the psionic powers she gained affect her personality, boosting her bravery as far as I can tell.” Tygan added. “Still, we need a plan for this. You should use this to think about it, Dinky.” Midnight advised and they all left the room to give her some quiet. The Eternal Knights looked at each other with worry and unease. They understood the need, but it was very risky and none of them could ever forgive themselves if Dinky would die. But it seemed unavoidable if they wanted to succeed against the Elders. Dinky was also lost in thought. She couldn’t tell why she felt so ready for this, it seemed so natural, necessary if she wanted to go home, seeing her family and friends again. Yet, she wondered, the Elders said she and neither her friends would be harmed. If they were honest, then why making an ADVENT soldier out of her? Was her being defensive their promise of no harm? She couldn’t tell and probably would never know. The filly looked on the watch on the wall, seeing around a quarter hour had passed as the other XCOM operatives looked after her. “We managed to create a heavy armor for you, we made sure it’s comfortable for you.” Fletcher said and held it with his magic, looking similar to the heavy armor of Sasha, being dark blue in color. Yet, before she could answer, Patch tipped on a close and it showed a man in the shows, unable to be identified as he spoke, “Hello, Commander. You and your crew are to be commended. Your efforts in rebuilding the resistance network and uncovering the truth about the Avatar project have been admirable. I only wish I had better news.” He sounded concerned and the others realized it showed the Spokesman talking to the commander. “ADVENT is not taking the death of an Elder lightly and in return have greatly accelerated the final stages of their Avatar Project. A plan is now in place for the rapid processing of all non-essential life. To begin immediately.” This earned shocked expressions by everyone. “Very soon, ADVENT’s Speaker will announce a breakthrough in gene therapy. A final treatment for the human condition. Billions will flock to gene clinics across the globe. They will never return. I have managed to secure tactical data and access codes to the ADVENT Network Tower. The Speaker’s address will be broadcast live via to a global audience via this facility – the whole of ADVENT’s network will be listening. It is this hubris we must use against them. The information I am sending you should allow Doctor Tygan and Chief Engineer Shen to take control of the transmission and disrupt their entire network from within.” He paused for a moment. “Though my hope is that this disruption will confuse the enemy’s forces long enough to allow your final assault a chance of success, I ask one more thing of you. Take what you have learned. Let the world know what is happening here. Wake them up. Broadcast the truth. Before there is no one left to listen.” Suddenly, a loud pounding noise was in the background as someone tried to breach the door and the human looked briefly at it, grabbing a pistol. “It seems we are both out of time. Farewell, Commander.” The transmission cut off as the door got breached and a firefight broke out. They all stayed silent for a moment, trying to process all this information. “This is the chance to strike at ADVENT’s heart. There is no turning back now.” Dinky said again with her mature voice, sounding very determined. “You…saw everything?” Central’s voice came from behind, startling everyone. “Y-Yes, sir, I passed it through, thinking the others should see it too.” Toby was a bit nervous, fearing he might be punished for this but Bradford gave a slight smile. “It was good thinking, spares me the briefing. Dinky, you really want to do this? I know it’s a hard burden.” He looked at her with concern. “I am ready to assist, humanity must know the truth.” She said and put her armor on, together with a Psi Amp. The other nodded and went to the Skyranger as Edward and Jan waited for them “Good luck, Dinky. Be careful” The boy gave her a hug, Jan did the same with her son. “Of course I will, Edward.” The unicorn replied and they all entered the transport. The Skyranger dropped the squad off on a platform on a Skyscraper, the purple beam of the tower was visible in the middle of it, looking almost identical to the spike that had prevented the Avenger from escaping. It was clear ADVENT didn’t put much effort in hiding the Alien tech. “Move to infiltrate the network tower. Locate the access point and hack in to seize the broadcast signal.” Central briefed them and Lukas scouted ahead. He walked towards a crossroad, in front of him was a small cabin with antennas on the roof, being the access point, guarded by a turret on it, to his right a MEC and trooper and to the left a Codex with a Archon. “Abstraction, can you shut down the turret?” Patch asked and he nodded, watching as Lyra flew past the guards undetected and hacked the turret, it’s barrel pointed downwards to show it was successful. Wolf then moved behind a wall for cover, aiming at the Archon and fired at the head, taking it down. “You know that was good!” The Codex spotted her but Jane made a sprint to slash the enemy, the Codex flinched at the hit but survived, creating a clone and teleported on a platform to their right, out of their movement range or so it thought as Patch got an idea. “I’ll pierce all!” he yelled and created a Psionic Lance, sending the purple beam towards it, killing it instantly. However, this alerted the trooper and Merc, the latter responded by firing a barrage of explosives towards the squad. “My shield will hold!” Dinky yelled as she reached for her Psi Amp, casting purple shields around everyone and herself, they all heard the sounds of the explosions, but found themselves completely unharmed by it. Kyle ducked behind cover as the Trooper fired at him, grazed him and he cried in pain. “That one hurt!” He yelled before Lena sent her GREMLIM to heal him and Jane saw how the Codex teleported towards a wall next to the cabin, she ran after it and sliced it again, killing it. James noticed the turret was about to reboot and fired his rile at it, the plasma beam went right through the armor, destroying it. With only the MEC and trooper left, Kyle pointed at it and Lyra flew over it, shocking it, making the robot twitching and Fletcher fired his Rifle, throwing it back before Midnight used his blade to slice it through the chest, dealing the killing blow. “Suppressing!” Heavy yelled as he fired, pinning the trooper down and Bianca took the shot, killing the hostile with a clear headshot. With all hostiles eliminated, Kyle then moved into the cabin seeing a console. “Menace 1-5, target in range. Move in to hack the command console.” Central ordered and the Specialists did as told. “We got access!” He reported and Central confirmed it. “Status confirmed, we have control of the network tower, the signal is going out.” They all took this as sign to get back on the Skyranger, a few ADVENT soldiers fired at it in an attempt to stop it before the tower released a bright yellow shockwave, causing them to hold their heads and cry in pain as they passed out, getting disconnected, a MEC also opened fire but became limb as it shut down from the shockwave. Bradford watched the broadcast on a screen as a crewmember reported, “Firebrand has cleared the perimeter, sir. Meeting limited resistance.” “Well done, Doctor.” “Yes, it would appear the feedback pulse is having the intended effect.” Tygan replied a he looked on a screen showing the technical details of it. “Shen? Status…Did it work?” Central asked as the broadcast started, showing a propaganda speaker. “ADVENT assures us this breakthrough will be available to all citizens immediately. We go live to the Speaker for more…” She said and the scene switched to him. “Fellow citizens. For 20 years we have put our trust in ADVENT, in the Elders – because we believed a better future is possible for all.” He said as a footage of ADVENT soldiers got shown briefly flickering and showing them without helmets. “Today, that trust, that belief, has been rewarded.” It then showed a Retaliation strike, earning shocked expressions from the viewers as the Speaker continued, “ADVENT peacekeeping forces are traveling across the world carrying the greatest gift from the elders.” He paused for a moment. “A revolutionary gene therapy, yes. But so much more.” He was completely obvious as the footage of the Blacksite got shown behind him. “This is an end to disease. To pain. The beginning of a new tomorrow. Available to all of us. Today. Truly humanity takes its rightful place among the stars.” He turned around in confusion as the crowd shouted in anger, becoming shocked as he saw the footage and took a step back before the crowd stormed towards him and the broadcast cut off. The XCOM squad then prepared for the final mission, Dinky saw how the commander was in stasis suit, the Avatar they had recovered started slowly to move and she took a deep breath, using her psionic power to make the connection as Bradford gave a speech. “Alright, people. The World got its wake up call. And now they know the truth. ADVENT is a lie. And their time is up. They’ve got a full-fledged war on their hands now! While the Aliens struggle to contain our world, we’re gonna make a move on theirs. It won’t be easy. But you’re used to that. You did what was needed. You never gave up the fight. You are XCOM. And you’re gonna end this! Humanity is counting on us, people. Good luck!” He finished as the squad stepped with the commander into the portal. Chapter 12 Final AssaultChapter 12: Final Assault The XCOM squad stepped through the portal, finding themselves in an underwater facility. Dinky recognized it, it was the same where she had met the Elders. “Okay, Commander, stay alert. No way of knowing if they detect our-“ Central tried to warn before they all saw a holographic view of civilians getting arrested. “…presence yet.” “Such loss. Such needless waste. You force our hand. Yet we still offer peace. Rejoin us and your world will be spared.” They all heard the voice of an Elder trying to reason with them, Dinky recognized it as the one who had been promised she nor her friends would be harmed. “You harbor such blinded hatred for us, we cannot understand it. Our intentions for your world were never hostile. They are still not. You are a part of us.” The Elder added as the squad moved out, ignoring it, they knew they couldn’t give up, having come so far, as Central commented, “They actually expect us to buy any of this.” “More distrust. Perhaps you would find more reassurance on our words if…”The Elder was cut off as the Commander’s Avatar used its Psionic power to block it. Lena ordered her GREMLIN to scan the area ahead, spotting three Stun Lancers ho waited in cover for them. The Grenadier fired at the Lancer on the very left in the next room, killing him instantly and Jane finished off the next with her rifle. The last remaining Lancer charged towards the Commander, avoiding all shots fire on him and drew his Lance, only for the Commander to avoid it by ducking, then responded by firing its Psionic Repeater, killing the Stun Lancer instantly. “So many lives risked to bring you back to them, Commander. And for what? More violence. More war. More death. Truly you were meant for something more than this.” The Elder sounded again as they moved on, being ignored by the Commander as Bradford had a report. “Getting reports from across the globe, Commander. ADVENT forcers are hitting back hard. Our people are holding their own but it’s not looking good. Whatever we gonna do, we better do it fast.” “ADVENT offered your people hope. A brighter future. To be something greater. But still you refuse. What more can we offer you than the greatest gift of all?” They heard the Speaker on their radios, making them wonder how he could have survived the angry mob as he continued, “So much time spent needlessly resisting, fighting your ascension to something greater! And yet here you are, just as we had envisioned. In your efforts to prevent the Avatar’s creation, you have followed the part we set forth, truly exceeding even our lofty expectations, Commander.” “Shut em out, Commander. More Alien lies.” Central countered and the Speaker asked in return, “Do you truly believe that to be the case?” The soldiers ignored it as they moved on a long bridge, hearing the Elder’s voice again. “Time and again you have rejected our wisdom. And still we show compassion and generosity. But as with all things this must end too. We can no longer afford to suffer your transgressions.” “Commander! Alien forces are stepping up their attacks on both resistance and civilian targets!” Central informed them and the Elder responded to it. “There is still another way.” Yet the squad was not thinking of it as they reached the other end, only for the Elder to speak up again. You view is as the conquerors of Earth, but that was never our intent. Each species you’re encountered, the aliens you have fought and slaughtered. None of them were given a choice. Our home was the oldest of worlds and the first to be consumed. Billions were lost, if only that were the end.” Midnight peeked around the entrance of the next room, spotting an Archon with two Mutons. He fired on the Muton on the left, killing it as the other went to cover behind container while the Archon charged forward, only to be shot right into the head by Patch, the other Muton got shot by Kyle. “Commander, resistance forces are pushing back against ADVENT, but it’s coming at a heavy price…At this rate, there may not be anything left on either side.” Central said as he gave another report. “From here we can call an endless legion of reinforcements. You will be overrun. Yet our armies could be withdrawn at any time, Commander. Peace is within your grasp, if you would just rejoin us.” The Elder’s voice sounded once again, but the intruders moved on. “For decades you were part of us, Commander. You are capable of so much more, and yet you fail to grasp the true nature of your power. Return to us, and your world will live on. Resist, and there will be nothing left to save…” The squad barely made it through the room as another of those white floating balls, called Gatekeeper as they knew from Tygan, together with a group of Chrysalids. Midnight took off into the air, dropping a few of his bombs on the Aliens and used his own Blade to cut through the Gatekeeper. The explosions were deafening but cleared the way. “Let’s go, there’s no time to waste!” “Hearing reports of some randomized disruptions in enemy forces on the ground. Units suddenly laying down arms or turning on one another.” Central reported. “With the tower disrupted, it could be that the Elders are attempting to maintain the network on their own. The strain on them must be…enormous.” Tygan suspected. “Our power does not waver. You find our forces here loyal. They require no coercion, for they know failure here means the end for all.” The Elder’s voice sounded in their ears. “Consider all those who have sacrificed for your cause, Commander. So many friends...so many allies…for what…” The Speaker wanted to know as the squad moved on, being ignored, they all knew there was no turning back. “When we first encountered Earth we wept for a broken world. A tortured race crying out to the stars in agony. We answered your call. We saw your true potential. The invasion was a test. But your people did not fail. You succeeded beyond measure. You need only accept your place amongst us…” The enemy leader sounded again and Central interrupted, “Keep pushing, Commander. They’re losing their grip on the world and they know it.” “We have lost nothing. For our greatest weapon returns to us.” The Elder countered. “You will defeat them here as you did once before, Commander.” Another Elder added with a more eerie, dissonant tone. As they came across what looked like a human living room. “What is that?! Some kind of human enclosure?” Shen wondered. “There were always reports of missing civilians used before the first invasion. Could this be them?” Central added. “Maybe they had planned to use this for some sort of psychological testing…” Tygan suspected as the team walked past, coming to another bridge, two Codex and an Andromedon, so was the name of the alien using the environment suit, guarded the other side. Fletcher and James managed to take out both Codex before they could do anything, moved toward, trying to cover its faceplate with a hand as the others fired on him, damaging quite it’s armor as it managed to get to a support beam for cover and aimed at the squad, its weapon throbbing. “Oh you, you don’t!” Dinky yelled as she used her shield ability again, nullifying the acid damage before the Commander gave the alien the rest, raising a hand, cheering in the Alien language. As the shell reactivated, Wolf fired at it, throwing the remains of the suit back and over the reeling. “Enemy down!” She announced and they came to a big room, Dinky recognized it as the one where she had talked to the Elders. “Astounding. This entire facility submerged beneath our oceans. But for how long I wonder…”The scientist commented at the sight. “One problem at a time, Doctor.” Central reminded him as the pods started to glow purple. “Your form is but a shadow of our truth. We seek to defy that which would consume us all. Your efforts deny the sacrifice of those who came before. You leave us no choice.” The other Elder said as three bright purple lights appeared and the same number of Avatars came into sight. “You are our greatest adversary. You are our Avatar. You can lead our armies. And save your world. Return to us, there can be no more delay.” “Though I find the possibilities proposed by the creature intriguing I believe we passed the point of rational discourse,” Tygan commented. “We didn’t come here to talk,” Bradford added. “Yeah, take it down.” Shen shared his opinion. “Your persistence is admirable, but tired. It is time to accept the part laid out before you, Commander.” The speaker taunted. “Return to us. You were once our greatest asset against this world, it can be so once again.” The Elder spoke. “Okay big guy. I would love to believe you once had our best interests at heart, if only because it would make us look less stupid for ever believing you did. But everything I've seen from you convinces me that you don't give a damn! Whatever you are and whatever you hoped to do here, we don't want it. You might think of us as weak, ignorant and destructive, hell even some humans think that, but we're not and when it comes down to it, we're pretty good at proving those people wrong. Do you understand? You're beaten! We are humanity, this is our planet and You! Aren't! Welcome! Here!” Lukas shouted at them in an angry tone for what they did to him. Two Archons guarded one of the hostile Avatar’s, firing their weapons, pinning the XCOM squad down. Said Avatar reached for its Psi Amp and shot a purple beam towards the squad, creating a dimensional rift and they all cried in pain, Dinky was behind a wall out of its effect. They couldn’t move and she knew they would probably die when it would collapse. The filly breathed steady, concentrating as she reached for her own Psi Amp. “You will be safe!” She yelled as her Psionic power surrounded everyone and in a blink of an eye, they found themselves out of the rift and in flanking positions of the Avatars, having been teleported. Fletcher and James drew their pistols, killing the Archons with well-placed headshots before two of the Avatars fired at Heavy, who grunted in pain from the hits. “Can’t take much more of this!” He yelled with a pained voice. The young unicorn reacted quickly, sending a beam of Psionic power to him that healing his injuries. This action allowed him to suppress one of the Avatars, Patch used this to fire a shot, throwing it slightly back an Jane used her hook to freeze it in place then swung her blade at it, followed by a shot from Bianca, having used her suit to get on an elevated position, before the Commander’s Avatar made the finishing strike, killing the Avatar with a clean shot in the head. Fletcher fired an arrow at the second Avatar, it got also thrown back unable to teleport as it got hit by Wolf’s throwing knives and Midnight teleported next to it, slicing the Avatar with his own Blade Lena pointed at the last Avatar and her GREMLIN flew over it, releasing a shock, making the Avatar unable to move as she fired at the chest and Lukas took aim, firing at the head, killing the last avatar. “By the numbers!” Suddenly all Psionic gate started to spark and Shen warned the squad, “Without the Elders stabilizing the Psionic network, everything’s gonna haywire! That gate’s not gonna hold much longer!” “You heard her people, MOVE!” Central yelled as they made their way to it but it collapsed just as they reached it. “Shen, tell me you got a Plan B here.” She said with worry. The woman tipped on the console as suddenly the gate came back to life and she took a step back in confusion as Central said, “Nice work.” “Wasn’t anything on my end. This shouldn’t even be possible. Unless…”She mumbled and Bradford understood. “Commander, Dinky, whatever it is you’re doing, it’s working. Just make sure you save enough juice for your own trip home.” He advised as both used their powers to reactivate the gate, allowing the rest of the squad to go through it. A loud screech sounded and the connection broke, Dinky saw how the Commander held its head and laughter echoed through the room. The squad joined Central as he looked with Shen after the Stasis suit. “What the hell is happening here, Doctor?!” Bradford yelled as a purple glow came from the suit. ”It’s the Elders! They’re overwhelming our link…enveloping the Commander’s consciousness!” Tygan replied with worry. “Then server the connection!” “We do that, we risk a complete overload!” She warned. “And Dinky will be lost!” Midnight added. Dinky was thrown back by a shockwave, seeing three projections of the Elders, purple beams leading from them to the Commander. I have to help! She used her own powers to boost the Commander’s Avatar, it stood up and used its powers against the Elders as it raised its hands, a blue beam pushed the purple beam slowly back. As the blue beam reached the Alien leaders, everything exploded in a white light, overpowering Dinky’s senses. Chapter 13 VictoryChapter 13: Victory Dinky couldn’t tell what had happened or how long she was out as her head ached, she blinked but her vision came and went, her hearing was muffled. She prayed what she had done had worked, that everyone was alright. “Vitas stabilizing. Synaptic activity returning to acceptable levels.” A voice echoed in her heard as her vision slowly cleared, finding herself in the infirmary. “And one trans-dimensional Psionic network down for the count.” A female voice added as her hearing recovered too. Once she slowly got up, the smiling face of Edward and all her friends greeted her. “D-did it work…” Her voice was weak. “Is…the Commander alright?” “A bit shaken but Tygan diagnosed a full recovery.” Midnight replied. “And to answer your question regarding the mission.” Patch reached for a data pad and pressed a button, it showed retreating ADVENT troops in a burning City Center, together with a woman with headset on a roof. “This is the Liberation Network broadcasting on all frequencies. ADVENT is in full retreat across all areas…” She said and fighting got shown, a man with headset reported, “Heavy fighting continues in the City Centers as ADVENT forces attempt to regroup…” Then a settlement with people getting care packages and another man reported, “We’re barely keeping up with the flood of refugees here as people continue to desert the ADVENT-controlled City Centers.” Then it showed a woman in front of a table with weapons on it. “To all of you still in the occupied zones – hold your ground, continue the fight. We promise you, help is on the way.” Then it ended and the filly slowly smiled. “We did it. Finally, humanity is free.” “Yes, you can finally go home.” Patch replied, “Tygan also said you can leave as soon as you wake up.” “Glad to hear it.” “Reminds me, think we keep the Psionic powers?” Wolf asked curiously and Midnight tried to flaunt his power but nothing happened no matter how strong he tried. He shrugged. “Oh well, was fun while it lasted.” “Yeah, he also mentioned the downfall of the Elders did disable all Psionic powers. He also said that Lukas’ condition could be reversed.” Dinky smiled warmly. “That’s nice to hear, you can be yourself again, Lukas.” “Yes, and I look forward too.” He replied. The filly cleared her throat, noticing it was dry. “Edward, could you bring me some water please?” “Of course.” He replied and walked out, with the former ADVENT member looking after him. “He’s such a polite and well-raised boy, it’s really a pity what happened to his mother.” “Yes, it is.” Lena started to smile. You remember how I told you we liked to be parents, Dinky?” “Yes.” Then she got it. “You want to adopt him? That’s a very nice idea.” “There you go, Dinky.” The young man walked in with a glass of water and the unicorn gladly took it. “Edward, I and Lena thought about something,” Lukas said and the boy asked, “And that is?” “You see, we always wanted to be parents, and it was really tragic what happened to your mother, she raised you well.” “You…you would like…” He mumbled, not able to believe what the man just said. The young boy blinked in confusion, then slowly grinned. “Thank you!” He gave both a hug. “Yes, Edward, we would,” Lena confirmed. “Also, Edward, you have grown on all too us, since we are family here, we would be your family too,” Patch added, sounding slightly embarrassed. “I’d love too!” Edward exclaimed and Jessie chuckled as he looked at his friend. “Remember when we talked about Patch’s relationship with Nancy and Pipsqueak?” “Yes, I do. Why do you… Wait…” Toby cut himself off as he got it and Jessie and the others laughed at this. “Like OC, like creator, eh?” Kyle asked with a smile before looking at the ponies. “I also have a special gift for you.” He took them to the crew quarters, Lily, Tygan and Bradford joined them. “Remember when I told you how I like to draw and paint? I thought I make you a goodbye gift.” He removed a canvas from something next to his bed and the ponies were amazed. It was a painting of them, the knights stood with heroic poses and their signature weapons drawn, Dinky was standing on top of Fletcher with the same pose. “I hope you like it.” Kyle sounded proud of it. Midnight looked at it with a smile. “It’s beautiful! You have really talent. Reminds me of a pony I knew with similar talents.” “Thank you.” “The transport won’t be a problem.” Fletcher lighted up his horn and the painting became smaller, fitting perfectly in his saddlebag. “Goodbye, everyone. Dinky said as she gave everyone a hug before walking back to Fletcher. “Thank you for the help. We wish you all the best for the future.” Midnight said before Fletcher cast the spell that would bring them home and they vanished in a white light. “It’s sad she’s now no longer with us, but least she’s finally home, safe and sound,” Edward said with a weak smile b before yawning. “Yes. Let’s get you to bed.” Jan replied and she walked out with him, Shen, Tygan and Central. “Well, that’s the end of that. We did it, ADVENT and the aliens are defeated. We had probably never made it so far without Dinky and the Knights.” Toby commented with a hint of pride in his voice. “Yes. I know you made her proactive in your stories but I never thought she would be that brave and go so far.” James added with surprise in his voice. “Well, I was quite fascinated myself. I guess they will have to tell a lot back in Equestria.” “Couldn’t agree more.” Jessie then sighed. “Now, that we have won, I wonder what do to. In all those years, I never thought about enjoying myself.” “Since we have finally some time for ourselves, I think we should change that and deepen our relationship.” Bianca had a smirk on her face as she looked at him, Jane did the same with Kyle, Lena just grinned at her husband who grinned in return. Both, James and Kyle had surprised expressions at this, Patch slowly backed up with an uneasy expression. “I…I think I better leave you alone.” He said and walked backwards into the doorway, only to bump into someone. Turning around, he saw himself eye to eye with his girlfriend, who smirked too. “Where do you think you’re going?” Again, Dinky woke up with an aching head, groaning as she opened her eyes and found herself with the Knight in the hospital room. In the moment she got up, her mother walked in with tears of joy, hugging her. “My little muffin, I thought I had lost you!” “I missed you too, Mommy.” The filly replied as her other family members, the princesses and her friends walked in, happy to see her. “I can’t say how glad we are to see you are okay, Dinky, we feared the worst.” Blau Streifen said with relief as the Knights groaned, waking up. “Ugh…there must be a way to ease the headaches…” Midnight mumbled as Luna walked over to him, a stallion with dark blue coat and mane next to her. “Midnight, you’re okay.” The stallion hugged him. “Sorry I wasn’t there when you went missing the last time, I was busy elsewhere back then.” “it’s okay, Supernova, I am glad to be back.” The bat pony replied as Wolf’s family, Patch and Wagensroll walked in. “White Wolf, I was so worried…” Fallingleaf hugged her daughter who returned it. “I am fine, mother and happy to see you all too.” The Pegasus replied. “Fletcher, you’re back!” Wagensroll said with a smile. “Yes, I am, Wagensroll.” “So, my loyal knights and subject, what happened?” Luna wanted to know. Midnight took a deep breath. “Well, we found ourselves in an alternative universe of Earth, having been through a lot.” “Then, allow me.” The blue Alicorn touched his forehead with her horn and once again, everyone was transparent, finding themselves in the City Center. “Wow…” Tootsie’s eyes went wide as she saw how impressive the buildings looked, smiling as Lukas and Lena found Dinky and took care of her. “That’s very nice from them.” Time Turner commented, slightly shivering as the Elders got mentioned. The children slightly trembled as they saw the Lost, with Luna and Celestia putting their wings over them. “Those poor people.” Pip said with pity. Derpy gasped as it was shown how Dinky got shot, yet relaxed and smiled weakly as she saw how the Knights patched her up. “I owe you one for saving my daughter.” The grey stallion waved a hoof. “It’s nothing, we only did what was right, what we had to do.” “Ooooooooookay then...I don't think I've never needed a cup of tea so bad.” Patch’s expression was one of confusion, blinking several times as he saw Toby explaining himself, his eyes wide, apperently lost in thought, trying to make sense of it. None of the ponies was confused of the fact of that their life here was a children cartoon, due to the Knights last adventure on Earth, where fans had helped them. “Neither did I.” Fletcher replied as the birthday party of his creator here got shown and Sparkler smiled. “It’s really wonderful how you all helped to organize it, and that he found a lover.” “Yes.” Celestia added and everyone became slightly confused as they saw how the Elders spoke with Dinky. “Doctor, how are they aware of you?” In response, the time lord took a deep breath. “Can this wait until we saw everything?” The others nodded in response before seeing how the squad made the final Assault and how Dinky helped the Commander. “Dinky…” His expression and voice was stern. “You took a very big risk.” “I know but what was I supposed to do? Only with my help were able to enter the Gate and succeed.” She explained as they were back in the hospital room. Again, her father took a deep breath. “I just don’t want to lose you, Dinky.” “Yet, it was also very brave of her.” The white mare added. “Now, why are the Elders familiar with you?” “It was a very long time ago,” The time lord started, “Back then, I discovered the Elders’ world, being a once beautiful species. But one day, they suffered from a very aggressive from of tissue degeneration and their home world was on the verge of collapse, so I helped them to escape, which they were very grateful.” He sighed. “Yet, I was shocked to see how they invaded other species to find a cure, trying to stop them and eventually, I delayed their plans.” The brown stallion started to smile weakly. “So, my dear daughter, I am proud of you. You did what I could not.” “I just couldn’t let this happen, Daddy, that they…would kill humanity, all those who did nothing wrong, or do the same to all of you.” The young unicorn replied with a weak smile, she hated it to worry her parents. “It was a great risk, Dinky, but you managed to prevent something worse from happening.” Luna sounded slightly impressed. “Now rest, you need it. And the painting of Kyle is very well made.” She added as she looked at it in awe. “Yes, it is. I am pretty sure we find a place to hang it up.” Derpy was confident of it. “Reminds me, does anypony know how this portal was created that brought us to Earth?” Midnight asked and the doctor raised a hoof. “I suspect they wanted to reach me and something went wrong, like the Commander tried to interfere while being still connected.” “Well now, Dinky, we see you later, have a good rest.” Pip said before they all left the room. Wolf then looked out of the window, watching the sunset. “Without is, they probably had never accomplished this victory. it’s something we can be proud of.” “Indeed, Wolf. This is something we all can be really proud.” Midnight agreed. Yes, it’s a great goal we achieved.” Fletcher added. “I hope they can finally live a happy ad normal life. They all earned it.” Dinky said with pride and happiness. “This is their personal victory, something they will never forget. And our victory.”
Chapter 1 A familiar returnChapter 1 A familiar return It was another beautiful day in the land of Equestria. A few weeks had passed since Fletcher brought Dinky home with her new friends Katja and Blau Streifen. The little unicorn was, at the moment in school and Family Appreciation Day was around the door once again. Unfortunately for the filly, both her parents were very busy at work today and so was her sister, Sparkler, but there was a new “family” member that would come instead. Still, she was always interested in what the other parents or family members had to say; for example, Rumble’s big brother Thunderlane, about becoming a Wonderbolt, or Pip’s mother, Nancy, telling about how hard it sometimes could be to launder sometimes. It may sound boring, but for Dinky, it was very interesting; by knowing such stories, she could help her parents better in the house. And even if she wasn’t interested in becoming rich, the stories of Diamond’s father were very useful financially if her parents should need a hoof. Dinky could also still remember how Apple Bloom’s grandmother, Granny Smith, told her how she helped in the founding of Ponyville, which fascinated the young unicorn. “Hey,” whispered a snide, yet familiar voice off to her side. She turned around to meet the smug grin of a unicorn colt. “Where’s your family member for this year, blank flank?” He asked. Dry Ice, so was his name, was the new bully of the class after Diamond stood up to her mother and respected the CMC. “I got one, just being busy,” she replied with a slight grin. “What, is it your mom? Given how clumsy she is, I wouldn’t be surprised she shows up after this is over.” “You will see.” Dinky countered. “Thank you very much, Filthy Rich,” Cheerilee said to Diamond’s father, who gave a proud grin before he returned with his daughter to her desk. “Now then, is there anypony else who we haven’t introduced yet?” There were a few seconds of silence before Cheerilee spoke again. “Nopony left? Alright then, well then I suppose that would conclude-“ “Excuse me, Miss Cheerilee?” Dry Ice spoke in a polite tone as he raised his hoof, “but I think we forgot Dinky.” Then he gave her a smug grin. “And where is your family member, Dinky?” The teacher asked as all eyes fell on her. “He’s delayed.” “Well, perhaps another time then.” The mare said as it was almost over. “I knew it,” the colt snickered. “You’re nothing without your parents, and your mother with her crossed eyes it just as stupid as your father.” That was a harsh insult and Dinky disliked it to see her parents insulted, yet she just took a deep breath. Her parents had taught her to ignore such things, that anger wouldn’t be good for her. “Excuse me, young colt?” a new voice spoke out. Everypony turned around as a unicorn stallion with green coat, long blond mane, and pupil-less blue eyes entered the room, causing the female unicorn to smile. “Uncle Fray!” She hugged him, he returned it. “Sorry, got a little caught up.” “It’s okay,” the filly said and turned to the class. “Everypony, my uncle, Fletcher Fray!” “Hello there.” The stallion greeted with a smile. The foals smiled, as they all knew him for his bravery in getting Dinky back, while their parents looked at him rather curious, having heard of it but never met him. “Before I start, any questions?” He asked the foals. A small hoof rose up amongst the crowd and Fray turned his head towards a pink Earth pony. “Yes?” “How did you become her uncle?” Lilly asked. “Well, finding and rescuing her from a parallel universe gripped by war, we established a sort of rapport, as it were,” he answered. “What is wrong with your eyes?” Rumble asked, causing Fray to think of an explanation. “Er...Well, that's kind of a long story. Let's just say 'Don't Play Around With Science' and leave it at that.” Noi then asked, “Where are you from?” “I may live in Equestria, but I was born in Farmany. It was Princess Luna personally that brought me to Equestria, as I was interested in exploration and knowledge of the world outside.” “Just 'cause Miss Perfect has a mum with 'special needs' and a dad that's friends with the Princesses....” Ice mumbled, which was not unheard by Fray. “What was that?” the stallion asked, his friendly expression became serious. “Nothing!” squeaked the colt in a tiny voice. “Right…” Fray said without emotion and looked at the colt. “Let me tell you something. Princess Luna helped me personally in securing the future of Farmany, something I’m grateful to this day. And Dinky’s parents are hardworking ponies who would do anything they can to make her happy. I believe that you’re just jealous and I highly advise to overcome it, or you will suffer from it. Believe me, I've seen more ponies suffer from its curse than you've seen days in your life. It never ended well for them. Do you what to share the same?” Dry Ice took a couple seconds to find his voice. “No, sir!” he squeaked. Fletcher nodded. “Good. Now, any other questions?” he asked into the round, the other foals and their family members, Cheerilee included, still tried to process what had just happened, before a little colt with brown marks broke the silence. “What is your story for this presentation?” Fray chuckled. “Well, sad to say, out of all the Eternal Knights, I probably have the least amount of stories I can tell, not for lack of trying. When they called me 'Greenhorn', they didn't necessarily mean this one”. He tapped his horn with another chuckle. “Still, I might have one that you will like.” He cleared his throat. “Do any of you really know what a ‘siege’ is?” Pipsqueak raised his hoof. “Yeah, I...I know this one. Um...There’s a castle. And...one army outside is attacking it. And one army inside is defending it. So the defending side hides behind the walls and shoots at the attackers with arrows and stuff and the attacking side tries to break down those walls with um...catapults and stuff.” Fletcher smiled with pride. “Very good. But you know, what they don’t tell you is that, often, you don’t need catapults or anything other than an army at the gate and plenty of time. The word 'siege' is taken from the Old Prench word for ‘seat’. That’s what they do. They sit outside and wait. Because while you may have your castle, they have your fields, your villages, your woods, your rivers...they have your food. How much food does one make inside the castle if its gates are always closed? Can you guess?” Apple Bloom raised her hoof. “Well, I mean...Ya'll have had cooks and bakers an' stuff, right?” “Yes, but where do you get all the vegetables or grain or fruit for them to cook and bake with? Remember, the gates are closed...” “You don’t have any food?!” Silver Spoon exclaimed in shock. “Nope. Only what you had inside before the siege began. And Lunich...hadn’t a whole lot in its larders. In a siege, the enemy’s greatest weapon is your own hunger. Your king and his soldiers have to guard the granaries as if they were his own keep, dividing and measuring what’s left of the food for everypony inside. You watch your meals get smaller and smaller by the day until you get to the point where you’re lucky if you see three meals a week, let alone a day!” Fray exclaimed. Truffle Shuffle looked at him with a shocked expression. “...I can’t even imagine going whole days without food.” “I’d pray you never have to. Me and Conrad pulled up every blade of grass and flower in the district, every root and seed, stripped the bark from the trees and then chopped the trees up as well, anything we could eat, however bad it tasted or how hard it was to chew. And outside, our enemies in the Gildenpakt, feasted in full view from below the walls. Every fine dish cooking on roaring fires and bubbling pots, the scent of all that food nearly driving the sentries mad. We pulled off most of the guards from the wall-tops for fear they’d throw themselves off in hunger. Then, word spread around the castle of just what they were eating. We started dreaming of that feasting table. And that was when the real troubles started. Our soldiers and the refugees began turning on us. More and more were arrested trying to break into the larders or out the gates or even murder us. Our cells began to overcrowd...and we couldn’t afford to feed them anymore.” The unicorn told in a calm voice as he remembered every detail. Sweetie Belle shook her head in disbelief. “That must have hurt. D-did the food run out before you were rescued?” “For some, yes. When the food really began to dwindle, we’re talking less than all of what this class could eat for supper tonight here, Conrad, me and the rest of our lords, knights and all those who were definitely prepared to go out fighting volunteered to bar themselves from the larders and make do with whatever we could find.” Dinky’s eyes went wide with admiration. “Wow! That was really kind of you to do that.” Her uncle shrugged. “It was more out of practicality really. We knew that if the already-unstable populace were to hear we were completely out of food, that would be the end of it. So for the next couple of days, we found a way to make a truly vile but filling soup out of...go on, have a guess...” The class was quiet. They looked to each other as they waited for his answer. “Books. We took paper and parchment from the local libraries and printers, boiled them into stews and drank it, then chewed on strips of the hard covers if we were still hungry.” A collective “Eeeeeeeew!” came from the class. Fletcher chuckled in response. “Yeah, but it got worse, if you can believe it.” Diamond Tiara asked in disgust “How could it get worse than ‘book-stew?!’” Fray grinned. “You sure you want to know?” Snips and Snails grinned back. “Yeah, we’re sure!” “Well...one day, I remember, me and some other guards were patrolling drainage systems and found moss and fungus...” The green stallion smiled awkwardly, “Now...” “Ugh, you didn’t eat stuff growing in the sewers, did you?!” Tiara asked. “It was alright. We boiled it soft and then rubbed it with salt to get rid of anything deadly then ate it...” “And...you were okay?” Sweetie Belle was curious. “What? No, no, it was growing in a sewer for crying out loud! It was still covered in germs. Woke up every night to vomit till my face went blue.” He chuckled. “But it was better than starving!” The class let out another collective “EEEEEEEEW!” “I know, but drastic times call for drastic measures. We did anything to survive. And survive we did.” “How?” Noi asked. “We had an ally. A smuggler, which slipped through the siege via the canal, bringing a great shipment of fruit, vegetables, grain and milk, revitalizing us nicely. She'd also brought a secret weapon.” “And that was?” Pip wanted to know. “A full shipment of reflective glass. At midnight, when the Gildenpakt concocted another volley, the defenders lined up on the walls, I commanded them, and produced an enormous row of mirrors that reflected Luna's moon at its peak. It blinded and disorientated the archers below while we rained arrows freely upon them. During this, my friend Conrad, together with Luna and her knights managed to lift the siege, which marked also the end of the Gildenpakt. This victory also marked a new era of peace for Farmany.” Fray finished. After he had finished, there was silence and the pupils looked in fascination at him. Pip started to clap, followed by Tootsie, Ruby, Noi and the CMC, then the rest of the class. “I’m pleased to see you liked it.” Fray said with a smile. Shortly after, class was over and Dinky went home with her uncle. “That was great, uncle Fray!” “Glad to hear it.” “I hope Katja and Blau enjoy their school trip, I’m pretty sure their parents had also a lot to tell at Family Appreciation Day.” “You could ask them once they are back.” Fletcher suggested. “Of course.” Once they arrived at home, she called out, “Mama, Papa, I’m home!” “Welcome home, sweetheart, how was school?” Derpy asked with smile as she walked out of the kitchen. “Great! Uncle Fray’s presentation was wonderful!” the little unicorn exclaimed happy as she dropped her school bag and ate a muffin.” “Glad to hear it.” “Yes, it’s nice to hear that everything went well,” Derpy’s husband smiled with pride. “Yep, better than expected! Now come, uncle, the Cutie Mark Crusaders are waiting for us!” The filly hopped out of the door with a happy smile. Fletcher just laughed and followed her, with her parents watching after them. “I never thought he could be so good with children.” The brown stallion commented. “If you ask me, after all he went through, he earned it to have somepony at his side that makes him feel joy. Same goes for Wolf and Midnight,” Derpy said. The two unicorns walked towards Sweet Apple Acres where Midnight was currently helping out. Apple Bloom greeted them. “Welcome. That was really a nice presentation you two made.” “Thank you, Apple Bloom,” Dinky replied as the earth pony led them to the bat pony. He was helping to buck the trees, he just bucked another one as it friends arrived but strangely no apples fell from it. “Huh?” Midnight looked up in confusion before an avalanche of apples buried him. He poked his head out and spit out an apple that had landed in his mouth. “Did you become a fruit bat?” Fletcher joked at the sight. “Haven’t planned on it,” Midnight replied as Apple Bloom helped him out. Dinky looked up into the sky and saw Scootaloo with Rainbow Dash and White Wolf on a cloud. It was a sunny day, perfect to fly around and Scootaloo seemed eager to enjoy it to the fullest, the two mares looked with smiles at the foal. “Ready to learn to fly, Scoots?” Wolf asked as the filly climbed from Rainbow’s back. Scootaloo nodded. “You bet.” Wolf then lifted the filly up onto a forehoof, and hovered into the air. “Alright, remember what I told you, concentrate and breathe deeply.” The Mare took off and hovered over the cloud as Scootaloo tried her hardest flapping her wings fast, and strong. Rainbow Dash smiled proudly. "Look kid, you are doing it." Scootaloo looked around, and below herself, she saw that she wasn't falling. She looked side to side to see that she was keeping herself in the air by her wings. “Yes! I'm flying. This is so awesome!” She beamed with excitement as she tried out her luck by doing a loop in midair. Oh, yeah.” She then turned to Wolf and hugged her. “You're the best, Auntie Wolf!” The other Pegasus cleared her throat. “Next to Rainbow of course,” Scootaloo corrected with a weak smile. “I think it took a little working your way from the bottom. It was much the same for me. I didn't know how to use my wings until much later in life. Late-learners need a little more complex teachings,” the Stormrunner told the filly as it reminded her of her flying lessons years ago. “Say, Wolf, ever thought of joining the Wonderbolts? You look like someone that has what it takes to be one.” Rainbow complimented her. The Knight chuckled. “Thank you for the compliment, but that would conflict with my job as Eternal Knight.” They then landed on the ground next to their friends. “Congratulations, Scootaloo,” Dinky said, she felt happy that the orange Pegasus could finally fly. “Me too!” a new, young voice exclaimed and they saw Sweetie Belle join them as she pulled out a box with cookies out of her saddlebag. “Your cooking lessons really paid off, I improved a lot!” “Glad to hear it,” Fray said and tried one with his friends’ cookies, they were delicious. “Looks like I’m just in time.” They turned around and saw Dawnwind walking towards them. “And I thought an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” Midnight joked as the deer was a seer and druid. “Yeah...If you throw them at him. Besides, I'm as good a doctor as any,” she replied as she ate one of the cookies. “Rainbow! There you are!” two very happy voices called out. “Oh no…” Rainbow mumbled before she and Wolf got pulled into a group hug. “Wolf…meet my parents…” She said with discomfort as Wolf looked at the mare and stallion. “Rainbow, your parents are touching me.” Wolf also had discomfort in her voice. “Yeah, they do that.” “Can you get them to stop? It's making me feel very uncomfortable.” Dash’s father let go. “What? Sorry, sorry, I wasn't touching anywhere...personal, was I?” he asked nervously. “For Wolf, anywhere is personal.” Fletcher pointed out. “I'm afraid Miss White Wolf isn't such a fan of pony contact.” Midnight added. “Sorry, dear. We'll try and er...keep it real...is that what the kids call it?” Windy asked embarrassed. “I wouldn't know, we’re about as old as Luna,” the blue mare replied. Windy Whistles gave a weak smile. “Ha! Did you hear that?” she laughed. “And they said the Eternal Knights had no sense of humor.” “I wasn't joking. In fact, Midnight's about twenty years older than her,” White Wolf explained, causing the two parents to be silent for a few minutes. “...Wow...er...what was she...like? At...that age?” Dash’s father wanted to know. “Cooler than you ever could be, old timer, take it from me,” Wolf said with a grin. “Hey, can we now go to Sugarcube Corner or not?” Apple Bloom interrupted. She was getting impatient. “Of course, Apple Bloom. You go ahead and reserve for us, we still get a few trees to buck.” Midnight replied. She hugged him. “Sure thing, uncle Midnight!” “Dawnwind, would you and Rainbow escort them until we join?” Wolf asked her aunt. The deer laughed sarcastically. “Wolf, a quick word, if you please?” She grabbed her without waiting for a reply and whispered angrily, “This was not part of the deal!” “It was not. And yet, here we are,” the Pegasus replied calmly. “Helping raise you and your siblings was bad enough! I am not, under any circumstances, wasting my afternoon babysitting a trio of sugar-hyped town-ponies!” Apple Bloom growled “We ain't babies! We're grown foals!” Dawnwind responded to her, irritated, “And I'm older than your princess! Bite me!” “Dawnwind!” Wolf looked at her sternly, “What was it you promised Farseerer before coming with me?” The deer sighed before she mumbled begrudgingly, “Be nice to the town-ponies.” Wolf grinned. “Well, this is your chance. Bye!” Dawnwind muttered something in a foreign language as Rainbow said, “No problem. Let’s go, Scoots.” And with that, the four Pegasi took off into the air, followed by the two foals and mare, but Dinky stayed with the Knights. “Mind if I help you? My father always told me, first work, then play.” “Not at all, Dinky,” Fray smiled, he appreciated her helpfulness. The filly picked and put the apples in the buckets and carried them away, while the adults did the bucking. Since they worked together, they finished the work in just a few minutes. “Well that went smoothly. Now, let’s go.” The bat pony said and they made their way towards Sugarcube Corner. Dinky hopped ahead and hummed, which warmed the hearts of the Eternal Knights. “Derpy can really be proud of her,” Wolf commented. “Dinky is a daughter any parent could wish for.” “Yeah. She reminds me of Adalie,” Fray mentioned in a sad voice, his head lowered. “Fletch, cheer up, don’t look back, Midnight comforted him. “I know, she is just so familiar, it was also one of the reason I swore myself to get her back.” Fletcher let out a sigh. “And you did great, you can be proud of that, I’m sure your parents and Ruhlinda would be too.” The unicorn smiled weakly. “I hope so....” Bang! A loud explosion started everypony, Dinky jumped into the air in fear. “W-what was that?” She asked. She noticed the knights had their weapons drawn and looked around but couldn’t see anything. “I don’t know,” Fletcher replied before he noticed that the filly stared at his bow. “Sorry, old habit, we mostly are only unarmed when doing work with Patch or Luna,” he replied as he put his bow back into his saddle bag. “Guess it was nothing,” Midnight put his blade away. “Let’s hope so,” the filly replied before a loud humming sound crept her ears. Dinky turned into it’s direction and spotted a large purple-colored rift on a field. “What’s that?” She asked in confusion. “I don’t know, I have never seen anything like this before,” Midnight said suspiciously. “We better report that in.” “Right, led the way.” Wolf said but suddenly, the rift grew brighter and they felt how they got sucked towards it. “Hold into something!” she yelled and tried to grab something before they heard Dinky scream, and got pulled in with her. The little filly gasped and breathed heavily as she awoke. She looked around her surroundings and tried to remember what happened. Wherever she was, she found herself in a dark alley, and rain was drenched her heavily. Dinky took deep breaths. Okay…calm down, don’t panic. She noticed Fray and his friend weren’t next to her. “Fletcher? Wolf? Midnight?” she called out but got no reply. She was startled by a loud thunder. The sound scared her, that caused her to cry and tremble as he covered her ears. “Mommy! Daddy!” he called out instinctively. “Did you hear that?” a female voice called out and reached to her ears. “Yes, sounds like a lost child.” a male voice replied. Faintly, the filly saw two human-like silhouettes. They came closer and she was able to see them fully once they stepped into a light. The filly saw that they were really humans, like she had seen on her first stay in Earth before. It was a man and a woman, both wore raincoats. to Due the darkness, she could only make out that they both looked confused at her. “P-please can you help me? I’m lost,” she asked them. Her voice caused the humans to take a step back, and shook their heads in disbelief. It made sense to Dinky, they had, like many humans never seen a unicorn before, let alone a talking one. Still, somehow, the filly could tell these two would help her, like Escher, a human soldier had done before when he found her as she ended up on Earth before. Maybe it was the look in their eyes, or their expressions, she couldn’t really tell. The woman kneeled down with a friendly expression. “Of course we’ll help you.” she gently took Dinky into her arms and covered her with her raincoat to keep her warm and away from any more rainfall. As the two humans walked out of the ally, the filly noticed how the city looked. Most buildings were skyscrapers, they protruded meters into the sky. The streets were lined with them, all of them seemed to be built from some sleek, chrome-like material. Statues of an alien creature Dinky had never seen before. Its body resembled that of a human, but had four arms instead, stretched out like it was about to give a hug. But most notable was the head. It could be mistaken for a mask the way it opened up into a void like some kind of clam or starfish or unknown creature of the deep. Another stature showed an alien with a more humanoid posture helping a human up. She also took notice that billboards appeared to be holographic, something she thought only existed in Science Fiction. The cars that were parked or drove around had a low and thin design, they looked very elegant. Everything looked overall very futuristic, like a city in Science Fiction but it also reminded her of Canterlot somehow. “ADVENT reminds all citizens that tonight’s curfew is for your protection,” a female PA voice informed to the streets, “Citizens without a valid exemption should report immediately to their nearest ADVENT peacekeeper for assistance.” The filly spotted what appeared to be a human soldier in the distance. He wore a dark gray body suit with black armor plating. The boots reached up to his knees, each marked with a red light on the knee pads. A pelvic plate covered the human's groin, lined with a pair of red lines where the leggings met the plate, and six gray ammunition packs line their upper legs, three packs on each leg she counted. Additional ammo packs were attached to the front and back of the trooper's belt, with a buckle consisting of two square notches. The breastplate took the shape of a gray, stereotypical bulletproof vest, decorated with even more ammo packs. A pair of pauldrons guarded the shoulders, each marked with a red light. Also, the human's forearms were protected with gray bracers and gloves marked with red knuckles. But most interesting was the helmet he wore. Gray in color, angular, and covered the entire head, save for an opening on the front that revealed his mouth. He held a black colored rifle in his hands. Overall, it made him look like a futuristic foot soldier. The soldier spotted the two humans and made a stop sign. He said something in a language she couldn’t understand. “We were just about to go home,” the man replied calmly as the child saw another soldier walked up to them. Like the other, only the mouth was visible, but the armor was colored red and he had a cape. He also wore a pair of red plates that protected the outer sides of the upper legs. Their entire torso from neck to groin was covered with angular gray armor plating with red markings on the breastplate. The helmet had a peaked design with a red front and top and gray sides. It held onto his head with a metal chin bar, Dinky assumed it was an officer. He said something to the other soldier, who replied in the same incomprehensible language. Then the officer looked at the two humans, nodded, and stepped aside. “The ADVENT Administration reminds you to report all suspicious activity to your nearest peacekeeper,“ the PA voice announced again, “Remember, only together we can build a better tomorrow.” It didn’t take long for the two humans to reach their home. It looked like a normal house, but in the same chrome-like material. The furniture was simple for the living room, it contained a radio, a TV and a couch. “Looks like a very nice home.” The filly looked at it with a smile. “Glad to hear it. “Would you be nice and get a towel?” the woman asked the man, who nodded in response. “Of course, dear.” After the man had dried Dinky, which she appreciated, she was able to see them fully. The man had brown hair and green eyes, while the woman had brown hair with blue eyes. Both had an average build, apparently in their late twenties or early thirties. The male’s face was thin with a narrow chin, the woman’s face was broad and a wide chin. “It's alright, kid. You're safe here. This is our house. I'm Lukas Barber, and this is my wife Lena,” the man said and he introduced himself and his wife. “I’m Dinky Hooves,” the filly replied in a still shaken voice, which caused her hosts to look at each other in surprise before both smiled. “Interesting name. Let me make you a soup to warm you up,” Lena offered and walked into the kitchen, to make a potato soup for their young guest. In the moment, the unicorn was about to walk into the kitchen, when another loud thunder came that caused her to flinch and cover her ears again. “Shh, don’t be scared, we’re here for you.” Lena said in a comforting voice as he hugged her. Dinky smiled weakly. “Thank you, thunder kinda scares me.” “It’s okay. Now, time to eat.” The woman helped her on the chair and the unicorn lit up her horn to use the spoon, her yellow surrounded it and lifted it up as her horn glowed in the same aura. Her hosts look with fascination. “Did you just?” Lukas asked surprised. “Well, yes, where I’m from, every unicorn can do that,” Dinky explained. “Then, would you like to tell us more?” Lena was curious. “Of course.” The filly took a deep breath. “I’m from a country called Equestria. Ponies live together in harmony. There are unicorns like me, who can use magic, Pegasi ponies and Earth ponies. Pegasi can fly and manipulate the weather. The Special Talent of a pony is represented by a ‘Cutie Mark’ on the flank, which I haven’t got one yet. Equestria is ruled by Princess Celestia and Luna. They’re Alicorns and they control the sun and moon.” “Interesting, Dinky,” The man commented, still being fascinated. “I know. I was born in Ponyville, a village in Equestria. My parents are a pegasus pony called Derpy Hooves and an earth pony named Time Turner, some ponies call him Doctor Hooves. I also have two sisters, both are unicorns, Tootsie Flute and her big sister Sparkler. I also have an uncle called Fletcher Fray. As for how I got here, me and him were near a purple rift that appeared out of nowhere and sucked us in. As I woke up, I found myself in the dark alley,” she explained as she ate her soup and enjoyed the warmth. “Sorry to hear that,” Lena said with sympathy. She smiled weakly. “We are humans.” “I’m actually familiar with your species,” Dinky continued, “Some time ago, I landed on Earth before due to an accident. Fletcher was dispatched by Luna to find me and we befriended each other in the process, and became like a family. He is one of Luna’s most loyal and experienced guards.” Both humans stayed quiet for a few seconds, before the man broke the silence. “Sounds very fascinating, Dinky. Here, the world changed after…an invasion.” The filly’s eyes went wide. “I-invasion?” “Yes.” Lena replied. “Now it’s 2035 in March. 20 years ago, in 2015 also in March, Earth was victim to a global alien invasion. As the conventional militaries failed, an Elite unit called Extraterrestrial Combat Unit, XCOM for short, was founded to repel the alien invaders, being the first and last line of defense. They did well, but eventually, the world leaders had offered unconditional surrender to the leader of the aliens, the Elders.” “Were those the statues with the four arms?” the filly asked. “Correct. They made humanity believe that they came in peace, and that the forces of Earth retaliated aggressively and with prejudice. The ADVENT Administration is the global government and law enforcement, being founded after the Unification in 2015. Those two soldiers you saw belong to ADVENT.” “How…how do you know all this? And why humanity would allow this all after this...Invasion?” The filly could not understand. “Well, my father used to fight in XCOM back then, wanting to protect me and my mother. I and my wife witnessed the invasion, it was horrible.” Lukas told with unease in his voice. “As such, we don’t believe it, but pretend to be to avoid trouble. As for others, with ADVENT, hybridization of human and alien technology occurred in various ways, enabling humanity to conquer many formerly incurable diseases. They made City Centers out of the old cities, like this one, which is Berlin, our hometown. Many, who never witnessed the invasion, directly believed that the Elders came in peace and the war being an unfortunate misunderstanding. For every collateral damage and civilian death, the Elders were deeply saddened.” Dinky blinked, trying to understand. “It…makes sense…kinda. What else is here?” Lena continued to explain, “Well, there are slums, where the…not so kind people live. Outside of the City Centers are ramshackle ‘Shanty Towns’, those are colonies or people who prefer the old way of living, and Small towns still exist, populated by people who need time to decide to accept to live in the City Centers or prefer the life before the aliens. Still, ADVENT maintains order here.” “I see,” the filly replied before having to yawn. She noticed that the rain had stopped and the evening sun came out. “Yes, it’s a complicated world. You should get some sleep. It was an exhausting day for you. We have a guest room with a bed. Lukas, would you be so kind?” “Yes, my dear,” the man replied. Lukas guided Dinky to the guest room and tucked her in. “Goodnight, Dinky, sweet dreams.” She smiled. “Thank you. “If you need something, the door to our bedroom is open.” “Okay.” The unicorn let out another yawn and drifted to sleep. She hoped that Fletcher, Wolf and Midnight would be alright. Although one thought entered her mind. Why does this feel like a déjà vu? Lena waited in the corridor. “Look at her, fast asleep in no time. Little angel.” “Yes, she does. Can you actually believe that our favorite filly from our favorite kids show back then is with us?” he asked as they both got to bed. “It was hard to believe at first, but we owe it to her family to keep her safe,” his wife replied. “Indeed. I love you." “I love you too,” they both kissed before they drifted off to sleep. Author's Note The sequel to Blood in the Sand, an Xcom crossover. Due to the gameplay mechanics, I thought this could suit.
Chapter 2 Unification dayChapter 2 Unification day As Dinky woke up, she could see Ponyville in the distance, her home. Full of joy, she galloped towards it. Her pace slowed. She blinked. Her nostrils stung. The grass felt dry beneath her hooves. The ground itself felt crumbly. She suddenly realized the lights in the distant town, weren't those of welcome. She saw that the town was burning and screams could be heard. She feared for her family and friends. The little unicorn ran as fast as she could towards the town, and became horrified at what she saw. Most of the buildings were destroyed and corpses littered. Despite being scared, she looked at them and hoped that her friends and family weren’t among them. Then, a horrifying screech came from behind. As she slowly turned around, the filly trembled as a four-legged purple colored creature stood a few meters away from her. The creature had two claws, very sharp tow formed its teeth, Its eyes glowed yellow. Something told the unicorn that this creature was responsible for this, but she was too scared to run and frozen on the spot. Dinky screamed as it leaped towards her, her life flashing before her eyes. “Get away from her!!” Sparkler’s voice ringed in her ears, mixed with the sounds of fighting. Slowly opening her ears, she saw how the older unicorn was fighting the insect-like creature with her bare hooves, covered in blood. “Dinky, run!” the mare yelled. She didn’t have to say it twice. Dinky ran as fast as her legs could carry her. She hid in a small, still intact building and slammed the door shut. She cowered as she peeked out of the window. Sparkler bravely stood her ground but then, the creature hit her into her chest with its teeth and lifted her into the air. She screamed in pain before she became limp. Sparkler…N-no… The creature then dropped the body; it implanted what looked like an egg into the mare’s chest, then walked out of sight. Dinky just stared, not able to believe what had just happened. Her big sister was dead, the rest of her family and friends probably too. She curled herself into a ball and cried. A horrible groan made her flinch. As she dared to peek out of the window again, she witnessed in horror how the body of Sparkler stood up, her eyes glowed red and her skin pale. Whatever the insect thing had done to Sparkler, it had forced her to rise again as some mindless, lifeless creature. The undead pony wandered aimlessly in a slow stumbling manner. Dinky wanted to look away but she just couldn’t. After what seemed like hours, the unicorn started to bleed from the mouth and vomited blood. It made the young filly wonder what has happened. The zombie collapsed and twitched as if it was about to burst. To Dinky’s horror, it did burst and a smaller version of those creatures hatched from the body. It had a visually lighter color. It stared at her, then lunged at her. The last thing she heard was her own scream. In that moment, the filly jumped up with a scream, breathing heavy and had cold sweat on her face. Within seconds, the door to the guest room opened and the married couple came in with worried expressions. “Dinky, are you alright?” the man asked. “I-I…had a nightmare…”the filly said in a shaken voice before Lena scooped the filly in her arms. “Shh, it was just a dream. Please calm down,” she spoke in a calming and motherly tone, before she wiped out a few tears out of Dinky’s eyes. Dinky buried her head into Lena’s chest. Lena patted her mane. “Shhh...Don't worry. We are here...Shhh.” She rocked Dinky and hummed a lullaby to her. Before Dinky fell asleep, the woman whispered, “You can sleep with us.” Once back in bed, she said to her husband, “Goodnight, my dear.” They all slept peaceful. It was early morning when Lukas woke up, and he had to smile to what he saw. The little filly smiled in her sleep while being hugged by his wife. Despite this heartwarming sight, he wasted no time to have breakfast and went to work. The middle-aged man worked at the local bakery and specialized in sweets like muffins. His mother used to be a baker and his idea of specializing in treats came from Dinky’s mother. He barely entered the bakery as a voice called out, “Good morning, Lukas, how’s it going?” He turned around to see a man with similar height and build as him as he walked in, but he had a broad face and chin, green eyes and black hair. “I’m doing well, Franz, what may it be?” He asked in a friendly tone to his first customer of the day. Lukas and Franz were best friends since grade school. “A coffee and a pretzel please.” “There you go.” “Thanks.” Franz ate with a smile, it showed that he enjoyed it. “I’m also glad to hear that you and your wife are doing fine. My liver is killing me again. I’m afraid the gene clinic will be the only option left for me.” He had suffered from liver problems since he was a child. Barber shuddered at those words. His mother suffered once from cancer and went to a gene clinic to cure it, but never returned. As such, it filled him with unease. “Okay, just be careful,” he replied with worry, he didn’t want to lose him too. “Of course, my friend. Can you give your wife my regards?” “Sure thing,” Lukas replied as his friend paid for the meal and left. The young unicorn woke up with a yawn. She smiled as she saw that Lena was still asleep and that it was sunny outside. Dinky carefully climbed out of the bed and walked into the kitchen to make breakfast for the woman. It was the least she could do as repayment for their hospitality. Plus, she made breakfast often for her parents and Fletcher and they were pleased every time. A delicious smell crept into Lena’s nose and caused her to stir and wake up. “Good morning, I made you breakfast.” Dinky walked in with a breakfast board, a piece of toast and a glass of juice in it. “Oh, Dinky, you really didn't have to. Thanks so much,” the woman said with a smile. She enjoyed her meal, which pleased Dinky. “I'm glad you liked it. What have you planned for today?” “Today is an important holiday, so I actually have today free. I had planned to clean the house. What you like to help?” The filly grinned. “With pleasure! And where is Lukas?” “At work, he’s a baker like his mother used to be, but comes back around noon or afternoon at holidays.” “Okay.” The day at work was mostly quiet, but Lukas couldn’t complain, he liked the job, yet was glad when he could close up and go home. Around 2PM, he closed the bakery and went home for lunch. He brought some pretzels from his bakery. “Welcome back!” the child greeted with glee. “Thank you, Dinky,” he replied with a smile before they had lunch, the filly enjoyed it to the fullest. “They taste really well, you sure know your job,” she complimented him. “Glad to hear it, I learned it from my mother.” “That's nice. So did I. How is she doing?” the unicorn asked with innocence. The man sighed. “She was great.” “Oh…” The child lowered her ears in guilt. “I’m sorry.” Lukas stroked her mane. “It’s okay, you couldn’t have known that.” The filly then asked with a weak smile, “How did you got to met your wife?” Lena took the word. “There isn’t much to tell, we went to the same school. And…witnessed the invasion…” The woman shuddered with a slightly horrified expression. “Sorry that I brought back bad memories…” Dinky lowered her head. Lena in return gave her a hug with a weak smile. “It’s fine, Dinky. We were just around your age back then, maybe a bit younger or older, I can’t remember exactly. It started like any other day. We went to school that morning, and the only thing we were thinking about was what to do after class. Suddenly, there was an explosion that shook the whole building. I remember the windows rattled and the teacher looked out of the window, and his expression terrified. We all went to the windows to look out, and we saw this… thing. A giant spaceship came out through the clouds, and emitted a green light… plasma shots, rained down onto the city. I saw buildings just collapse, and fire spreaded all over.” She took a deep breath, her voice was shaken her expression became slightly horrified again. “We went to shelter shortly after, but then the-the things landed… I saw the first one hit the ground next to our school and released green gas, that sucked everyone in that was near it.” “We heard screams and held each other for dear life as it went on for what seemed like hours.” Lukas continued, his voice and expression were also unsettled. “When it stopped, we saw blood and bodies of dead teachers and students in the hallways as the roof had taken a hit from the plasma, a clear line through the middle. Then, those aliens came and started to abduct people. It made us both hope that help would arrive quickly. , Fortunately it did, in the form of XCOM. A squad of soldiers quickly moved in and eliminated the aliens before they could get into the school. We both were very grateful back then, but the screams and blood…both burned themselves into our minds.” He finished with a disturbed voice. “Oh my…I can’t imagine how horrible this must have been,” the filly said with a hint of shock in her voice. “Yes. We watched the news from a fallout shelter as their biggest ship arrived off the coast of South America, it caused earthquakes across the planet, and made us fear for the worst,” Lukas said as he took another deep breath. “XCOM managed to destroy it, and we thought that was it. But it wasn’t…” “What happened?” Dinky asked. “Shortly after, another big ship arrived. And another, and another. The resistance was defeated worldwide and we held our breaths as we waited for the aliens to suddenly strike us down.” He started to tremble slightly, his voice was close to break down. “But they didn't. The governments made peace with the Elders. They moved entire populations to the newly made City Centers which they created within a month. Old cities were brought down, the rubble cleared, and new ones erected in their place.” He slowly stopped to tremble, his voice was shaken again. It took the filly a moment to process everything. “I see. You said your father was serving in XCOM, what happened to him?” The man let out a sigh. “After the peace treaty, my mother and I got visit from a XCOM soldier that had managed to escape death. He told us that my father was killed in action, and gave my mother his wedding ring. That was how I got to know he was in XCOM. And I will never forgot their efforts to defend us. It was six months of living in fear and they fought hard to keep earth safe.” Dinky couldn’t imagine how hard and terrifying that must have been. “I’m sorry to hear that.” Lukas smiled weakly. “It’s okay, it’s in the past. Now let’s enjoy the rest of the day.” The two adults decided to play “Do not get angry” with Dinky, which she knew from home under the same name. She often played it with her friends. It was a German board game, for up to six players. The goal for each player was to move four figures from the old “home” into the new “home” by making a clockwise round on the board, but a player could throw out a figure from other players if they landed on them, it forced said player to get the figure out of the old house again. This could frustrate any player, thus the name of the game. For some reason, the married couple felt a sense of joy they hadn’t felt in years; their hearts were warmed after they saw Dinky was happy and had fun. As such they weren’t surprised when she finished first with a smile. The hours passed and soon became evening. Lena made some fried potatoes for the three of them for dinner. The foal had good manners and ate with both knife and fork. She used her magic to do so and smiled to show her hosts that she enjoyed her meal. “They taste really good, you’re a good cook, Lena.” “Thanks for the compliment.” “I wanted to ask, what is this holiday you spoke of?” Dinky wanted to know. “It’s the Unification Day, celebrating when the peace treaty was made 20 years ago.” Lena explained. “Makes sense.” Dinky replied as she finished her meal. “It should start any moment now.” Lukas turned the TV on and it showed the ADVENT logo, a strange, foreboding, jigsaw-like monogram, black on red before a news reporter was shown. AVENT troops marched in formation, led by officers who saluted by making a fist to their chest as reporters could be seen in the background broadcasting live . “Excitement continues to build as city centers across the globe prepare for the 20th anniversary of Unification Day.” The reporter said and the picture behind him switched to civilians that have gathered on the streets. “Thousands line up at the side of the Great Accord, celebrating the formation of the ADVENT Coalition.” The Great Acord looked like a stage with a big screen and a large Elder statue behind it that stood tall, high into the sky. “In keeping with their promise to humanity, 12 new gene clinics will be opening in selected cities by the end of the new year.” It then showed one of the clinics It looked like a typical hospital, expect, it had a logo of DNA on the roof before a damaged clinic was shown. “Despite the attack by fringe Elements, operations in the new facility in Paris thankfully remain unaffected. In response to the unprovoked intrusion on the eve of our most beloved celebration, the Speaker reaches out to us.” The broadcast switched back to the Great Accord. It showed a man with short black hair and blue suit as he walked up on the stage, his eyes hidden by black sunglasses. The filly also took notice that he had green splotches on his neck. “A small number of dissidents again repeat the mistakes of the old world.” The speaker started as a live broadcast of ADVENT troops that fought resistance members and aided civilians caught in the crossfire was shown. “Striking as we celebrate a benevolent savior who time and again offers only friendship and compassion. Yet these trivial actions could never break the bond between humanity and the Elders.” The scene then showed ADVENT troops making arrests and raids as the news reporter continued, “Peacekeeping forces have already made several preemptive arrests of known collaborators. ADVENT again assures that today’s celebrations will continue as planned.” The broadcast then ended. The unicorn stayed silent as she did not know what to say, before Lukas looked at her. “While many attend it, we stay home. Can’t leave you without company, can we?” Dinky smiled. “I guess. Even if it’s only a day, I already enjoy your company. I think you would make good parents.” Lena chuckled. “It pleases me that you think that of us. We actually planned to have a child, but in order to do that, I would have to visit the local gene clinic for tests, but I’m afraid to go there.” Dinky’s expression became confused. “Why? Are you afraid of needles?” “No, nothing like that. We had some friends that visited the clinics and went missing afterwards. I don’t want to lose my husband, he’s everything I have left now.” The woman’s reply was filled with sadness as her head lowered. “I see. May I help you in the kitchen?” The filly wanted to help in any way she could. Lena smiled. “We appreciate your help, but leave it to us.” “Okay, I’ll be in the living room.” While the two adults cleaned the kitchen, the woman spoke up. “Her parents really raised her well, they can be proud of her.” “Yeah, though I wonder how her uncle looks like,” Lukas replied as he finished putting everything into the dishwasher before his wife said, “Honey, look.” What they both saw warmed their hearts. Dinky has fallen asleep on the floor with several drawn pictures. The first one were her parents, the Brown Earth pony known as Time Turner, or Doctor Whooves and the grey Pegasus mare known as Derpy. The second picture showed her big sister Sparkler, together with the unicorn filly Tootsie Flute. It made sense as the filly was seen with Sparkler together in one episode. The next picture showed her friends. The little colt known as Pipsqueak, the three fillies known as the CMC, the unicorn called Ruby Pinch and many more. The two bronies took notice that along Dinky’s friends, there was a grey Earth pony colt with a human girl that had yellow and orange striped hair. The married couple decided not to think much about it as they looked at the last picture. Three ponies, a green unicorn, a blue Pegasus and a grey bat pony. The unicorn had written “Best uncle ever” under it. All pictures had writing that said, “I miss you.” “That must be Fletcher Fray.” Lena said with a sad voice. She knew that the filly missed her family and friends already. “Yeah, still, we must do anything we can to keep her safe until they find her.” Lukas replied before he tucked the child in. “Indeed,” His wife replied as they went to bed. The filly woke up with a yawn in the morning and noticed a delicious smell in her nose. “Good morning, I made you breakfast.” The woman walked in with a breakfast board to give toast with juice to repay the generous action. “Thank you very much,” Dinky smiled and ate her breakfast with glee. After she finished, she noticed that it was hot today and decided to get another glass out of the fridge. “I’m thirsty.” The eyes of the humans went wide as the unicorn levitated a giant glass out of the fridge with a determined expression, and nodded. “This is an extreme thirst!” It created a small shockwave as she putted it down. “Uhh…”Lukas was lost for words. The unicorn grinned. “Just an illusion spell I learned from Sparkler.” And in a flash, the glass went back to normal size. “This warm weather just makes me very thirsty.” The wife chuckled. “Of course.” The filly let out a happy sigh after she drank the juice. “Much better!” Suddenly the doorbell rang, followed by a not very gently knock on the door, yet not rude either. “Visitors so early in the morning? Dinky, stay out of sight.” Lukas looked at her, she nodded and walked back into the guest room. As he opened the door, he saw an ADVENT officer together with two normal soldiers standing before him. “Mr. Lukas Barber?” the officer asked in German. “Yes?” he asked slightly nervous in return. “Please come with us. We only have a few questions.” Lukas nodded before looking at his wife, who had a worried expression. He gave her a hug, with the ADVENT soldiers watching neutral before they left with him. Dinky had watched everything and noticed that Luna started to sob. Without hesitation, the filly hugged her in an attempt to cheer her up. The pony could tell that this wasn’t good and that she had to be here for the woman, as she had been there for her with Lukas. Author's Note At least they weren't here for Dinky.
Chapter 3: VIPChapter 3: VIP Lena sobbed for several minutes before she calmed down. “I’m here for you,” the filly said in a comforting voice, like her parents and sister did when she felt sad. The woman sniffed. “Sorry… It’s just…Once you get taken away by ADVENT, you're never heard from again,” she told with a sad voice. “B-but…they can’t just take people without a reason!” Dinky replied in disbelief. “ADVENT can do as they please, sadly, they are in charge of Earth after all.” “Why? Why did they take him? He did nothing wrong!” The unicorn exclaimed. “I don’t know. Maybe they knew about his father. Or just…wrong place at the wrong time,” she replied, stroking the foal’s mane. She knew, even with her husband gone, she had to make sure Dinky wouldn’t be taken too. She was the only thing left know and the filly’s family and friends would be destroyed if something would happen to her. “I hope they won’t hurt him,” Dinky said with fear in her voice. Lukas was taken into a squad car. He expected to be brought to the local station for questioning. But that expectation vanished as the car left the City Center. “Uhh, the station is in the city, not outside,” he said, slightly worried. “There is nothing to fear, Mr. Barber, the local station is not useable at the moment, so we have to go to a station outside of the City Center,” the Officer replied. The car took a country road that went through the forests and after a while, a big facility came into view. The man looked at it with awe. “We are here,” the officer said and they stepped out. The facility looked like any other ADVENT facility, yet it somehow had an intimidating aura for the human as heartbeat increased and he was slightly trembling. He felt like he was going in an old mansion. For some reason, Barber couldn’t help but feel a chill down the back of his neck. As they entered the facility, Lukas swallowed hard, and, for some reason, felt like it would be his last chance to do so. The rest of the day went quiet, Dinky helped out in the house as good as she could. She could tell how Lena was affected by the absence of her husband. For a long while her head was lowered and had a slight sad expression on her face. Dinky knew she had to cheer her up somehow. In the evening, the woman made vegetable flan for dinner. The filly enjoyed it, yet noticed that Lena ate very slowly with her head still lowered. “Why?” she asked, “Why did they take him? He didn’t do anything…” It made Dinky sad to see how depressed her host was, so she decided to cheer her up and tried to think of the right words. “Maybe it was just a misunderstanding, like, false information! It wasn’t your fault, you aren’t’ to blame.” She said in a calm and cheerful voice. The woman gave her a weak smile. “I guess you are right.” Then they both went to bed. Despite being worried, both of them slept pretty well that night. In the next morning, they had breakfast as a broadcast came in. It showed the speaker again, two ADVENT officers next to him, their hands behind their back. “Fellow citizens. For 20 years the ADVENT Coalition has worked tirelessly to repair the ravages and justices of the old world. Under our stewardship, our cities prosper, our people flourish and our world heals.” The live broadcast showed marching troops being watched by civilians, followed by a Trooper that offered a hand to a citizen. “And yet, among us, there are still those who refuse to acknowledge the truth! Who are determined to see that all that we have achieved crumble!” he exclaimed and ADVENT troop transports that traveled around the globe got shown. “That must end. Even as I speak to you today, ADVENT peacekeepers are advancing into the outlying territories to end this scourge once and for all. We will ensure your continued safety and well-being throughout this crisis. With your cooperation we will overcome these radical elements and usher in another 20 years of peace and prosperity.” With that it ended. Then the doorbell rang again, followed by a knock, Dinky went out of sight as Lena answered it. It was an ADVENT officer again, escorted by a trooper. “Yes?” she asked. “Sorry to bother, Ma’am, but we have reports about suspicious activity.” Lena knew this was bad but tried to remain calm. Had they monitored them, or had someone seen Dinky and reported it? She didn’t know. “That must be a misunderstanding, but would you like to come in?” She asked, slightly nervous. “Thank you, but we have to search your house, standard procedure,” the officer replied as he and the other trooper entered the house, the latter looked around and made the woman hope that Dinky had selected a good hiding place. The filly was hidden under the bed and hoped the soldier wouldn’t find her as he entered the room. As he looked around, she was breathing rapid, slightly shaking as he stood in front of the bed. She held her breath. The soldier kneeled and spotted her, pulling her out before she could react, Dinky screamed and struggled as she was brought to the officer. The woman now started to shake nervously. “Please, I just gave her shelter! She means no harm, she’s just a child!” “Of course, the Elders know to appreciate your concern and caring. We are just here to help,” The officer replied calmly. “Lena, please!” Dinky pleaded, she cried heavily tears as she was brought out and still struggled until the soldier knocked out with a whip of his sidearm. But seeing Dinky getting hurt enraged the woman. With a growl she charged at the officer, who swiftly blocked her attack and hit her in the solar plexus which knocking the air out of her and made her collapse in pain. “I apologize, but it’s for your own safety,” He said with no emotion and left. Lena cried over her failure to protect Dinky. She rolled onto her side and let out an ear-piercing scream. “Ugh…” Dinky groaned as she woke up with an aching head and wanted to move but she realized she couldn’t. She looked around her surroundings and she found herself restrained She felt a device on her horn made her unable to use her magic. She appeared to be in a prisoner van or something, as she could hear the sound of an engine from it and felt the rumbling as it moved. “Stay calm, panic won’t get you anywhere,” the filly spoke to herself. Suddenly, the van stopped abruptly and shots were heard outside. Apart from the deep firing sounds of ADVENT troops, she heard a faint 'rata-ta-tat'. Her ears perked up as the door opened and she tried to cover her eyes from the light. She slowly uncovering them, she looked at a woman in armor climb into the van. The woman’s armor’s color were mixed stony tones in a leopard skin pattern, armed with a rifle and a sword on her back. Her face was very similar to Lena, broad face and the chin wide, save for black hair for it was tied into a knot behind her head. Her green eyes were trained on Dinky. The armor was hiding her build well. Before Dinky could process what was happening, the woman removed her restraints and offered a hand with a slight smile. “Come with us if you want to live.” The voice was in English with a French accent and sounded friendly. The filly realized quickly that this woman wanted to help her and grabbed the hand to be led out of the van. “The VIP is secure and we’re on the move,” the woman spoke into a radio. “Menace 5-1, status confirmed, VIP is now in tow. Proceed to the extraction point,” a male voice replied. “Stay close,” the woman said in a calming tone, the filly nodded, as he looked quickly around, the can was in the middle of the city, a few dead soldiers and an officer were lying in their own blood on the street. “Nice work with the door, Abstraction.” A man in dark gray chest armor came into sight from behind a wall, the rest of his armor was navy blue and held a rifle that was light gray. His hair was dark brown, his eyes green, and the face was rounded. He looked tall but thin. She almost overlooked a small drone flying next to him, A bizarre contraption and almost like a floating crab made up of computer parts with a pair of lighted panels on either side like police lights on a police car. Its body was colored mint-green and the wings Cyan white; it had the same colors as Tootsie’s music teacher Lyra. “Behind you! he yelled at the woman and a loud shot made Dinky flinch. The sound of a body hitting the ground greeted her ears. She looked where the sound came from and saw a dead ADVENT trooper behind the woman; it laid in a puddle of strange orange blood. She looked up and saw what appeared to be a woman with a sniper rifle on a balcony but was too far away to make out any details. “I got you covered!” the sniper yelled over the radio. “Let’s move,” the French woman said and Dinky followed her with the man known as “Abstraction” down the street. She saw blood splattered on the windshield of the van; that meant the sniper had shot the driver. Out of her eye, the filly saw another ADVENT trooper run around the corner and charged at the woman. In response, she drew her sword and rammed it into the soldier’s chest; blood splattered from it as he collapsed. Dinky looked ahead where they were headed and saw a blue flare at the end of the street before the male voice on the radio sounded again. “Menace 5-1, be advised, hostile interceptors are inbound on your current position. Firebrand has a limited window to provide extraction.” “Enemy reinforcements!” The sniper warned as a red flare lit up near the extraction point and an ADVENT airborne transport arrived. Another officer with three soldiers jumped out before it left. The red-colored soldier pointed towards the filly and woman and yelled something that sounded like “Call her Patsy!” and his soldiers, in response, opened fire. The French pushed her behind a wall for cover as the red colored bullets missed them both by inches, causing the child to cower in fear. “Under heavy fire!” Abstraction yelled as he was pinned down behind cover too. Suddenly, a quick 'rata-ta-tat' echoed in Dinky’s ears, followed by a voice saying, “Run, cowards!” She peeked around the corner and saw that the officer had fallen. In addition to his red-colored armor, his face was covered by a gas mask. Behind the corpse was the two soldiers and held what looked like a portable gatling gun. The ADVENT soldiers dived to cover but the man yelled, “Cry some more!” and drew what looked like a grenade launcher from his back. He fired and the explosion resulted in both hostiles being blown a few meters back while covered in splinters and blood. The dead squad allowed the others to proceed. Once at the extraction zone, the unicorn saw what looked like a troop transport, the engines swiveled on either side of the fuselage above them. The ropes were lowered in front of them. The woman gently took Dinky on the arm and grabbed the rope with her free hand. The rope reeled them both on board with the others as they grabbed the other ropes. “This is Firebrand, VIP is secure,” the pilot of the aircraft reported. “Status confirmed, mission accomplished.” The male radio voice replied. Dinky looked at the humans in the squad as she sat down on the seats with them. The sniper of the squad caught her eyes because she saw that she was smiling, apparently happy that the mission was a success. Now that she was next to her and not on a building, Dinky could see the woman had green eyes and blond hair, that was also tied into a knot. She wore a cap that matched the grey color of her armor, which had the same muster as the French woman. Her face was rounded. Thank you for saving me,” Dinky said as she looked at the four adults. The French woman petted her with a smile. “It’s nothing, sweetheart. Catch some rest, it will take some time.” Dinky nodded and closed her eyes, dozing off in the woman’s lap. She didn’t want to ask where they were headed. She was too tired and exhausted from the firefight. “Can you believe it, Jade? Dinky Hooves from My little pony: Friendship is magic, right before our eyes?” Abstraction asked her. “At first, no. I really wonder how the Council found out about her, but I’m glad we could save her from ADVENT,” she replied. “Da, I’m glad too.” The Russian added. “What about you, Bianca?” “Me too, Sasha. A young child like her hasn’t deserved this.” The sniper replied with an Italian accent. After a while, they arrived and Jane gently shook Dinky’s shoulder. “We are here.” “Okay…”the filly said, still a bit sleepy as they stepped out. She noticed the aircraft had landed on a big platform up in the sky because, as they stepped out, a wonderful view greeted them. It made Dinky realize that the “platform” was a larger aircraft itself as an elevator brought them and the small transport into a hanger. “Well done, soldiers, you did an excellent job.” The filly’s ears perked up as she heard a male voice, the same as on the radio and saw the four operatives saluting an elderly man. His eyes were green, his hair brown but slightly graying appearing to be in his mid-fifties. “Central.” Jade replied as he looked a bit confused at Dinky. “At first I thought the Spokesman had lost his mind but I guess it was good he gave us this mission,” he mumbled and kneeled down to Dinky’s height. “I’m Central Officer Bradford.” “Nice to meet you, Mr. Bradford, I’m Dinky Hooves.” She greeted him with a slight smile. “I appreciate that you are polite, but Bradford or John is just fine,” he replied and turned to Abstraction. “Lieutenant Schaeffer, bring her to Dr. Tygan for a medical checkup, I discuss with the commander what we shall do with her.” “Yes, sir. Follow me. ”Abstraction said to Dinky. “We meet you at the bar!” Jade called out as the man and child walked towards an elevator. The man pushed a button and the elevator moved down. As the door opened, Dinky’s eyes went wide as she saw a big lab with machines of all kind. Aside from the machinery, the filly spotted a dark-skinned man in a white lab coat and had his back to her. He was inspecting what looked like a generator. He seemed to have large scar on the bald back of his head. “Dr. Tygan?” the Lieutenant called out and the scientist turned around. He had brown eyes and wore glasses. “Oh, sorry, I didn’t notice you. You are the foal I was told of, right?” He asked, sounding very fascinating. “Uh, yes, my name is Dinky Hooves.” She replied, slightly nervous. “I’m Dr. Richard Tygan, Chief Scientific Officer. Please, hop over here,” he said as he pointed to a large white table and the foal climbed on it. A scanner started to beep and whistle which made Dinky more nervous as it got to work. It moved up and down, then stood still. I guess this was how Pip felt when he met the humans, she thought as she remembered how Pip met the humans through a similar accident as she had. Shortly after they first met, she got examined in a similar way. Tygan smiled after a few seconds. “Apart from a slight bruise on the head, you’re fine. If you’re okay with it, I need a small blood sample.” Dinky’s expression become one of fear. “It will only hurt for a moment.” He added as he grabbed what looked like, a futuristic syringe. “Genetic research is very advanced today thanks to ADVENT. It would allow me to understand your biology better if you get hurt,” he explained as the operative gently took her left forehoof, whispering comforting words. The filly nodded, taking a deep breath and hissed for a moment as the needle entered her skin. “And done. You are very brave for your age.” The Scientist complimented her. He put her blood sample in a machine and the screen bursted to life with science mumbo jumbo. The scientist analyzed the results from her blood cells and was quite fascinated, his eyes went wide. While the blood was red, her cells were multi-colored. Like a perfect rainbow. “I never have seen anything like that.” Then he turned to the child. “Anyway, you should get going.” “Come, I show you around,” the operative said. He led Dinky to the other end of the hallway and came up to what looked like a room-sized factory. A woman worked on a workbench on something. She had brown hair and was dressed in an orange t-shirt with a green vest over it. “And there we go,” she said and an orange drone started to take off from the workbench. It flew around the room as she turned around. Dinky saw she had brown eyes and appeared to be in her late twenties. She smiled at the two. “Hello. You are the filly Central mentioned? I’m Lily Shen, Chief Engineer.” “Name’s Dinky Hooves,” the foal replied as the orange drone stopped in front of her and hovered up and down. It made a buzz sound that sounded like a greeting in robot language. “Glad to meet you too,” she added in a friendly tone, although, it felt strange to greet a flying drone. “That’s ROV-R, my personal GREMLIN. I think he likes you already.” Lily said with a smile. “It was a pleasure meeting you, Dinky.” Me too.” Abstraction led Dinky to a room that appeared to be an armory because it had several mounts for weapons. Abstraction got out his rifle and sidearm and put them both into one empty mount while his GREMLIN landed in a charging station. The filly started to blush as her stomach growled. “Sorry, haven’t eaten since breakfast.” “Then let me take you to the bar. it’s also the cafeteria.” As they arrived, Dinky saw how the “bar” looked like. She never seen anything like it before. A counter with a barkeeper and several tables, small TVs mounted on the wall, a glass cabinet with pictures of the old XCOM team, at least she assumed it was an old team. There was even a toy version of a jet fighter and an older version of the smaller transport in the glass cabinet. Everything was engulfed in an orange light. To her right was a big board that listed names, their last mission and a date. There were only two names on the board: Peter Osei and Ana Ramirez, both took part in operation Gatecrasher on the 1st of March. The board was lighted in blue. “Ah, glad you came.” Jane waved at them where she sat with the others. “What can I get you?” The barkeeper asked Dinky as the filly looked at the menu. “A salad with bread and noodles, please.” The Barkeeper nodded and did as told. The unicorn smiled a she enjoyed her meal, glad to have something in her stomach. “Looks very comfortable.” Dinky commented at the look of the bar. “Thank you. There’s nothing better than to relax after a mission here, having a cool drink or a warm meal.” Abstraction replied. “What brought you to XCOM?” The filly was curious. Jane took the word. “We come from many walks of life: bodyguards, prisoners, and resistance members are all part of XCOM's pool of hirees. Regardless of our background, we are united in our desire to take back our planet from the alien menace.” Jane took the word. “I used to be a teacher at a Martial Arts school, but ADVENT closed it down due being inappropriate…Hah!” She taunted. “They can’t tell me what to do. I took prides in my teachings, even with ADVENT, the people still need to defend themselves if no peacekeeper is around. After they tried to close it, I tried to justify myself, they wanted to arrest me for resisting and for helping a defenseless person against a robber earlier, stating I was hindering a peacekeeper on duty.” She had a slight hint of hate in her voice. “Me I and a good friend of mine used to work in a factory of household products,” Bianca added into the conversation, “One day, there was a delay in the production line because of a malfunction. My friend, being the production manager, said it would take some time to repair, but the supervising officer demanded it shall be done quickly. As my friend said they need time, the officer shot him. Killed just for a minor disagreement. Terrified, I fled, not wanting to meet the same fate.” Bianca’s voice had a slight shaken tone and expression. “Sorry to hear that,” Dinky replied and looked at Sasha. He was bald, his eyes blue, and his face and chin were broad. Sasha saw the filly look at him and got the hint that he was next to talk. “I have nothing much to tell. I was born in Russia before the invasion, taking pride in my nation, and I am very educated, having gone to college and receiving a PhD in Russian literature. I could have gone far. But then, ADVENT came and arrested me for faking my PhD, which I did not like. XCOM saved me and I repay them by serving them.” “I see. What is this ship we are on?” the filly asked. “It’s called the Avenger, a repurposed alien transport ship and our mobile HQ. The smaller transport is the Skyranger, a VTOL troop transport that deploys us for our missions. Jane is a Ranger. They are the primary reconnaissance units, specialized in operation in the shadows and up close with swords and shotguns. And since Jane is good in Martial Art, it suits her perfectly.” “You got that right.” Jane replied as he continued. “I’m a grenadier, being amongst the tough, heavily armed soldiers that excel at direct combat and wanton destruction with our Gatling guns and grenade launchers. Now, what makes me a good grenadier? If I were a bad grenadier, I wouldn't be sittin' here, discussin' it with you now would I?” he asked, causing the filly to chuckle. “Yes, you are a good grenadier.” The Italian woman then took the word. “As you saw, I’m a sniper or ‘Sharpshooter’. Just like it sounds, we engage enemy targets with pinpoint accuracy from extreme range. We're also trained in pistol marksmanship for the occasional close encounter.” “Uh-uh. And you, Abstraction?” Dinky asked. “Please, call me Kyle, Abstraction is just my nickname,” he replied with a smile. “I’m a specialist. That drone you saw, called GREMLIN, is our special weapon. We can take on a variety of tactical support roles, including field medic duty and remote hacking.” “Ok, Kyle. Nice nickname.” she replied with a smile. “Thank you. You surely want some rest from all of this. Come, I’ll take you to the living quarters.” “Lead the way. Bye everyone!” She waved at the others as she walked out. She wondered how the living quarters would look like. It was only a short walk from the bar and the filly found what she saw to be quite comfortable. The living quarters had several double beds, two couches, a table in the middle with some chairs and a dart board on the wall. “Looks very nice.” Dinky said to Kyle. “Glad to hear it,” he said as he sat down on one bed and reached for a guitar and started to tune it. “Do you play music?” Kyle smiled. “Yeah, it helps to relax and I draw from time to time. Sometimes, I play music to get over losses or to boost morale in general.” The filly remembered the blue board, realizing what it meant. “You mean the blue board in the bar?” Kyle sighed. “Yes. It’s a memorial for those who died in action, so we can pay our respects. Operation Gatecrasher was the rescue of the commander. With him, we are finally able to do some decent damage to ADVENT.” “Oh, I’m sorry.” she lowered her head. “But, why is your GREMLIN colored like Lyra?” This question caused the Specialist to look puzzled at her, thinking for a moment. “Well…back in 2010, there was a kid show called My little Pony: Friendship is Magic. It showed the adventures of Twilight Sparkle and her friends. You and Lyra are background figures and she turned out to be my favorite pony, so I colored my GREMLIN after her, I even nicknamed it Lyra,” he told, slightly blushing. “Makes sense,” Dinky replied, completely calm. “You’re… not confused by this?” he asked in surprise raising an eyebrow. “Well, my uncle Fletcher Fray landed on Earth before, finding out about the show and told me about it.” Then the unicorn told him about her uncle and how he became what he is and who he was, the man listed with interest, being fascinated. The lieutenant processed everything she told him. “Sounds like you have been through a lot. I’m also sorry to hear what happened but I promise we will keep you safe from ADVENT.” The filly smiled. “I appreciate it. Why did you join XCOM?” The human sighed again. “...Are you sure you really wanna know? Because this is pretty heavy stuff for a filly your age.” “That doesn't matter! Please, tell me!” Dinky said, extremely curious. Kyle stayed silent for a moment. “...Alright. Years ago when I was nine, my biological father died in a plane crash. While it was depressing, my mother started dating and found a man again. His name was Ed Richardson. At the beginning, it looked wonderful but…” He paused to calm himself down as his voice got shaky. “It was only after she got engaged and filed the child custody papers with the court that Ed revealed his true nature. He became irate for even the smallest things... he even started beating her. I was only eleven at the time, but I can still remember jolting whenever he got the urge to randomly backhand her. After about a year, she had enough, and then she decided, in secret, that she was going to leave.” Dinky gasped. “She left you behind?” “Not on purpose. In fact, she was desperate to take me with her. But for whatever reason, she couldn't get the court to give her legal custody of me. They didn't have enough evidence to prove that Ed was ineligible to assume custody. It was a losing battle, and with Ed putting most of her money into his own account instead of a joint account, she couldn't get a good lawyer with her free representation. Ed, on the other hand, was spending most of her money to hire some pretty high-end attorney to convince the court to rule in his favor... I guess he wanted to keep me around to do all his heavy lifting for him. Then, on the day before she disappeared, I saw her sitting on the porch. She was crying. She was repeatedly saying to herself 'I don't want to, but I have to'... He sniffed. ““...and then, on the following morning, really early before Ed woke up, my mom came to my bedroom and woke me. She told me that she had to go somewhere. I asked her where, but she said it was better if I didn't know. She had tears in her eyes as she was saying all of this to me. I didn't understand what was going on. All she told me was 'Be brave, Kyle. And just know that, even if I'm not here, I will love you to the end of the world'. Then, she gave me a long hug and kissed me on the cheek and left. I think I might have fallen asleep, because I woke up a few hours later, and rushed out of my room to look for her... but she was gone.” Dinky’s expression was one of sympathy. “I'm so sorry.” She gave him a hug. Kyle smiled weakly. “It’s okay,” he said and pulled out a picture, it showed a woman with the same light skin and dark-brown hair that he had. The filly looked at it in awe. “She looks very pretty. Just like you.” “Yeah.” He pointed to a watch he was wearing on his right wrist. It was a silver, analog wristwatch with a rectangular bezel. “My mother gave it to me as a final gift before she left. I haven’t seen her since the invasion.” You were there?…” The filly looked at him in shock. “Yes, I saw everything with my own eyes…” It was a normal day like any other, March 2015. Kyle had just returned from another long, exhausting day at work. He was sore from standing for eight hours with only short breaks, and looked forward to climb into bed, and to sandwich himself in between the sheets. It was always the time he looked forward to the most out of his work day. It was a little after eleven o'clock, Kyle had been scheduled the closing shift, which only further made him tired and ready to collapse under his own weight. But his fate had other plans. “Get up, boy!” Ed shouted. “Dinner won’t make itself!” The young man let out a quiet groan and used the little energy he had left to get into the kitchen, to make some pork chops. While he enjoyed his meal, he felt out of place, as Ed and his son Danny were ungrateful. They didn’t appreciate his work and left him to clean up while the elderly man watched TV and his son played video games. Suddenly a loud explosion shock the house, strong enough to throw everyone over. “What was that?” Kyle wondered confused as he got up and noticed that almost all the windows were broken. “Hey, Dad, look!” Danny looked out of the window, his father and Kyle joined him. Outside on the street was a crater, inside a big, black pod. “Looks like some kind of alien thing. Let’s take a look.” Ed suggested, sounding rather curious. “Stay inside, we don’t know what it is.” Kyle said as he advised against it. He knew that something wasn’t right. “Did we ASK for your opinion?” Ed asked with an angry expression and caused Kyle to hold up his arm in defense. “I’m just careful.” “Whatever, coward,” the elderly man replied and joined the group of citizens already outside to inspect the pod, Kyle watched with worry. What happened next, burned itself into his mind. Jade-green gas hissed out of the pod and caused everyone to flee in panic, Ed and Danny included. They tripped and got sucked towards it, screaming as they vanished into the fog. “Mother of god…” the young man muttered in shock, not able to believe what he had just seen. As the fog vanished, his eyes went wide as he saw Ed, Danny and many others down on the ground, encased in a verdigris green gel. The young man, breathed heavily, stared what was in front of him and tried to process what had just happened. Then, he saw something he had never seen before. A group of small, thin humanoid creatures, with open chests that glowed a sickly green, moved in together with a group of men in blue suits. The former had no visible mouth and big black eyes and were armed with pistols that glowed green. The latter had black hair and sunglasses and carried glowing rifles that glowed green as well. Kyle decided to stay hidden. He watched as the men used older-pattered syringes on the trapped humans before they abducted them. The young man did nothing, he knew they would gun him down the moment he would be within their sights. “They may be have not been very nice to me, but even they haven’t deserved something like this.” Kyle finished with a shaken voice. “Oh my…” Dinky mumbled in shock. “Did…did your mother…” He patted her head. “I don’t know. Twenty years have passed and I haven’t found her. I can only hope she’s still alive. If she was killed or died of old age, I comfort myself that she’s in a better place, but I haven’t lost hope yet.” Kyle weakly smiled. “Me and Sasha are the only ones in the squad to have seen the invasion. Jane and Bianca were too young to remember.” “That a good attitude, Kyle,” the filly responded to brighten his mood a bit “Now, why did you join XCOM afterwards?” “Well, despite what I had seen, I kinda believed on their lie of peace, trying to find my mother, while having nightmares of the invasion at times.” He took a deep breath. “But after some time, I noticed people went missing and knew something wasn’t right. As ADVENT wanted to go into a Gene clinic, I took my chance.” His expression became determined. “Mark my words: one day things will change. We will reveal the lies of ADVENT. Taking back our planet.” “I’m sure you will,” the filly replied. “The supply raid was a full success, ADVENT didn’t know what hit them!” a muted voice with a German accent sounded on the hallway. “Yeah, the Combat protocol of Gyro makes a very effective combination with your accuracy,” a British voice replied. “Hey, our teamwork guarantees success.” “Righto.” The German voice reminded Dinky of Fletcher’s relative Wagensroll. After Fletcher became her uncle, the earth pony also became a part of the family. He often visited them, he would chat with her father about old technologies and played with her, which she enjoyed. The British voice sounded similar to Purple Patch. As far as Dinky knew, he was an old friend of Nancy but kept his distance due to her husband’s violence. After he left her, Patch and Nancy spent time together again, and Patch took care of Pip when Nancy was busy. He told her once that he sometimes saw Patch as step-father. A faint ringing tone tore her out of her thoughts. The sound came from Kyle’s radio. “Yes, central?” he asked. “Acknowledged, I’m on my way.” he replied and looked at her. “We shall go to the bridge, they have decided where it will be safer for you.” “Okay.” The bridge looked very fascinating as they arrived. She saw several terminals and a big screen on the wall. But the most interesting contraption was in the middle, a big holographic globe. “That’s the Geoscape, it allows our commander and Central to plan operations around the world.” Kyle explained as they saw Bradford talking on a headset. “Commander, I have new information about this faction, called the Eternal Knights. They consist of three ponies. Their leader is called Midnight Blade. He's an undying swordsteed with an affinity with shadow magic. As far as we can tell, he may be some sort of quasi-vampire. One thing's for sure though, he's damn good at his job” The screen activated and showed the grey pony. “His propensity with the broadsword may seem like a no-sell but that blade cuts through the hardest ADVENT armor so quick, they may as well be wearing suits made of cream-cheese. His short-range teleportation consumes very little focus, making it easy for him to outmaneuver any enemy. Equipped with long-range boomerangs and bombs, he can open up the weaknesses of the foe and then move in for the kill. His real talent lies with blood magic which can heal any wound, even those that would normally be fatal to ordinary soldiers. In a scrap, he can even drain the life out of a defeated enemy. If, by some miracle, ADVENT get the drop on him, his Blood-Moon rage will make them wish they hadn't.” As he told this, the screen showed how Midnight killed ADVENT soldiers with his blade, the way he teleported in a cloud of red mist, grenades thrown at enemy groups, and drained a fallen over officer. His hooves glowed faintly red as he did so and roared as his rage was shown. “Second is their melee specialist, called White Wolf.” The screen switched from the bat pony to the Pegasus. “Raised in a perilous environment and made strong through lethal training and questing, she'll be more than a match for anything the enemy can throw at us. Her natural flying abilities give her extended movement reach across even the harshest battlefields. Flying over short distances, her affinity with storm clouds makes her invisible to all but the keenest predator. She can land with a force of lightning, stunning any nearby enemies around her, even in the middle of a tight formation. In pitched combat, her knives are deadly weapons and can land multiple strikes on one enemy or individual strikes on several enemies in mid-range vicinity. Her deer magic allows her to call upon nature's wrath with vines that lock enemies to the ground and wild wolf packs that'll rip and tear at an enemy's defensive line, acting similar to their Lost.” To his words, it was shown how Wolf flew around, sliced enemies, using clouds as cover before she stunned them with lighting and slammed into the ground to summon vines that immobilized enemies, followed by a growl to command a wolf pack to have the soldiers meet with them “And their Sniper is called Fletcher Fray.” The green unicorn was shown. “Something of a knight in shining armor, Fletcher's skill lies in an enchanted bow. As a sharpshooter, I say with certainty that he has few if any equals. Placed atop a vantage point, his reach is staggering and if any enemy is in his sight, he may fire upon them, no matter how safe they may think themselves. Using focus wisely, Fletcher may fire tracking projectiles that seek out and hit foes behind or over cover. He may also loose bolts strong enough to pierce armor for maximum damage. His focus can also be used to teleport himself around the battlefield. Vantage and stealth can aid him greatly but if he is surrounded, his bow will morph into a spear and, by god, it’s fast. With the right means, he can also serve as an engineer, programming or upgrading vehicles and even bringing his own to the party.” The screen showed how he fired his bow. The arrows he shot homed in and broke through cover. It showed him teleporting around and fought at close range with his spear. The last recording showed a drone on tracks, armed with a minigun next to him. “We need to find them and get them on our side. Their enhanced stealth and heavy attacks mean they can provide support from the shadows on one turn and a full-assault on the next. Good luck, commander.” Seeing this relieved Dinky. She now knew that they were alright. “Ah, there you are.” The elderly man turned to her and Kyle. “For your own safety the commander and I have decided to get you to a settlement, which is a safe haven for civilians.” “Okay. When?” “Right now actually, as the Skyranger just returned from a mission.” He turned to Kyle. “Lieutenant, escort her.” The Specialist saluted. “Yes, sir.” On the way to the hanger, Dinky asked Kyle, “Who’s the commander?” The middle-aged men shrugged. “Honestly, I don’t know. He directs us via radio during missions, but I have never seen him directly. He’s mostly in his quarters as far as I know.” Once onboard, the filly leaned back as she enjoyed the ride and caused the Brony to smile. As the aircraft arrived, the foal looked at the settlement in awe and fascination. The settlement consisted of several old buildings, outfitted with metal plates for protection or as a roof, it’s hard to tell. There were also small fuel depots and a few parked vehicles around it, in a rural environment. Overall, it looked quite nice and kinda reminded her of Ponyville. “There you are,” a male voice sounded in her ears. She saw a man with a hat and green eyes walking towards them, escorted by two armed guards who eyed her suspiciously. “I’m Denfather, the leader of this small town, and you must be the foal I was informed of,” he said with a smile. “That’s correct, I am Dinky Hooves.” She shook his hand. “Well then, welcome to our safe haven. I’ll show you around.” “Okay. Bye, Kyle” She waved at him as he returned it and went back into the Skyranger before it took off. The unicorn noticed how most of the residents looked either confused or with distrust, which made her slightly nervous. Dinky felt calm that all the children she saw here had only confused looks. One of them, a young boy, apparently the same age as Pip, with chocolate brown short hair and matching wide eyes walked up to her. “H-he-hello. My name is Edward Brown.” His hand was shaking as he stretched it out for a shake. “I’m Dinky. Dinky Hooves.” She shook it with a smile and noticed he had a British accent. Where is this settlement located?” She wanted to know as Denfather sounded German, and wondered if she was in the same area she was at before. “Oh, it’s Germany, near the border to France.” Edward replied. “I see. If you don’t mind me asking, why do you live here?” The boy’s expression became slightly sad. “Mommy never told me much. I only know she and father used to live in a town in England. She never told me the name of it though. It was attacked by the aliens and was almost wiped out. My parents, along a few others, were the only survivors and had been relocated to Germany. My father was taken by ADVENT before I was born, so mother fled here, to avoid the chance that she could lose me.” “I’m sorry to hear that.” The unicorn gave him a hug. He returned it. “It’s okay. Would you like to meet my mother?” Dinky grinned. “I’d love to.” She was led by him to a small house, and saw an elderly woman with wavy blonde hair, doing laundry, her back to the children as her son called out, “Mommy!” “Yes?” His mother turned around, startling as she saw the unicorn. Dinky saw that she appeared in her late thirties to early forties, her eyes were blue and sunken, showing that her age had taken its toll. “Er...Eddy...Wh-what's this?” She asked with a confused expression “This is Dinky, mom.” Her son replied with a big smile. “Rrrrrright...” His mother said in a disbelieving tone. “But where did she come from?” “She's with XCOM.” “I see...Might as well not question it. I mean, don't mistake me, they're good people, we owe them all our lives. But I can't begin to imagine what they get up to in their labs.” The woman looked rather distrustful and it made Dinky slightly nervous. “You are the foal everyone was talking about?” Her voice sounded not friendly but not hateful either, her expression was neutral. “Uh, yes, I am.” “Please, mommy, she isn’t one of them. Can I play with her?” Edward asked, giving his mother puppet eyes. She sighed. “Fine.” The young child smiled as he took the unicorn’s hoof and led her to the other children. “Does your mother not like me? she asked in confusion. Edward looked down. “I’m sorry, after daddy got arrested, she’s not very fond of strangers.” He looked up again. “How did you end up here?” The grey pony took a deep breath. “It’s kind of a long story.” As Dinky told the children where she came from and how she landed on Earth, they all looked very fascinated at her. “Sounds…like you have been through a lot Dinky…” Edward said in awe, his eyes wide. “But I’ll make sure you are comfortable until your friends arrive.” “Thank you, I appreciate that. Now, what kind of game had you in mind?” The boy grinned. “Tag! You’re it!” He said and ran away, the other children did too. The filly giggled and chased him, unaware that his mother watched them with a weak smile. The foal had so much fun for the day. She got introduced to the rest of the children, but could only remember Edward’s name. Nevertheless, Dinky had fun, and enjoyed every second with Edward before it became evening. She ate salad and baked potatoes with Edward and his mother and smiled as she enjoyed it. “That was very delicious. Now, where can I sleep?” “We have a guest room,” Edward replied as Dinky yawned. “Okay. If you don’t mind, Ms. Brown.” “It’s fine,” the woman replied and tucked her son in.” Goodnight.” “Night, Mommy.” Edward smiled before he fell asleep. As Dinky was about to climb into the guest bed, she heard the woman’s voice, “Let me help.” Edward’s mother lifted her gently up and tucked her in. “Thank you, I appreciate your hospitality, Ms.…” “Rosie. Just call me Rosie.” The elderly woman smiled slightly. “It’s nothing personal, I just…” Rosie sighed. “After I lost my husband, I don’t want to lose my son too, and today, you can never be sure who’s a spy for ADVENT.” “I understand. But I think you are a good mother, Rosie.” Dinky complimented her. “It pleases me to hear that from you. Your parents did raise you well too. Goodnight, sweet dreams,” the mother said with a smile and left. Dinky fell asleep with a sign. She hoped that the Eternal Knights were doing fine. Author's Note Safe at least. For now.
Chapter 4: On The TrailChapter 4: On The Trail The 3 Eternal Knights woke up with a headache, groaning in pain. “What just happened?” Fletcher asked as he found himself with the others on a meadow. “I don’t know. Everypony okay?” Midnight asked as he got up. Wolf vomited. “Never use portals right after a meal. I'm sure there's a rule for that.” She got up. “Where are we?” The green stallion looked around, seeing what appeared to be a city with many skyscrapers, protruding meters into the sky. “In any case not in Equestria, I can tell that already.” The bat pony thought for a moment. “Hard to tell at this distance. Who's betting we're on Earth again?” “That is very likely,” Fray concluded. “At least we have it better than last time,” Wolf commented before noticing something. “Where’s Dinky?” Not seeing the filly anywhere, the unicorn casted a tracking spell to locate her, slightly smiled as he pinpointed her current location. “Bad news: She isn’t with us. Good news: She isn’t far from our current position.” Midnight grabbed his blade. “Then let’s go!” Then he noticed that the blue mare was slightly wavering, holding her gut. “You’re okay?” He asked concerned. White Wolf held up a hoof. “It's all right now.” He nodded in return and they moved out, avoiding the city, taking the route through the nearby woods. They all wondered if they had really landed on Earth and if yes, when on Earth. Still, they hoped the young filly was alright. After a while, Wolf saw something in the distance. “Hey, I see smoke!” “I can see it too. Proceed with caution.” The grey stallion warned. The trail led outside of the woods and a horrible sight greeted them. “Oh my…” Midnight mumbled in slight shock. The smoke came from a destroyed settlement, made out of old buildings, outfitted with metal plates for protection or as a roof it’s residents slaughtered. Their bodies lying covered in blood everywhere. The bodies were male and female, mostly of Caucasian race, dressed in casual clothes. They were human civilians, hinting the Knights had indeed landed on Earth. “I guess it’s not a peaceful era. Poor guys, they never stood a chance.” He commented with an expression of disgust before Fletcher walked towards the bodies. “What are you doing?” “Checking for supplies, we need food and water.” He replied as he checked the bodies and settlement for anything of use. Surprisingly, the supplies of the settlement were completely intact, allowing the knights to make themselves some saddlebags for food and water. The bat pony and Pegasus took also notice how Fletcher inspected an Assault Rifle, together with a Revolver. “They will come in handy for sure.” He said and crafted a strap for the rifle and a holster for the revolver. “You remember what I did in Africa in case I can’t use magic it wanted to save it until I need it? I suggest you do the same.” “I'm good, thanks,” Wolf replied. Fletcher gave her a firm look. “Wolf...” “Come on, Fletch, you know how much I hate this clunky plastic curd! I don't see why humans love them so much.” The mare pointed out with disgust. “Look, Fletcher has a point, Wolf. I don't like it any more than you do but right here, right now, we have no idea what we might be up against and it'll help to be able to fight them with their own weapons. We can always just use our own if it's more effective.” Midnight countered. The mare pointed to the corpses in response. “They didn't do these poor bastards much good.” Fletcher nodded. “Yeah, well, let's hope we're better shots. Rule Number 28. Find and carry at least one native weapon in non-Equestrian territory until departure.” Yeah, yeah...” The Pegasus mumbled as she sulkily looked for a gun she liked the look of. While the grey stallion got himself an Assault Rifle too, Wolf got herself what looked like a Bullpup pump-action shotgun, perfect for her close range fighting style. “Well, I'll use it but I won't like it.” She commented with disdain as Fletcher also equipped a bolt-action Sniper rifle. The group continued their walk through the woods until it became slowly dark, showing that the night was coming. Normally, they all three could be awoke until late in the night before having to rest, but for some reason, they all started to show signs of fatigue, having a yawn, their eyes struggling to stay open. Also, their head ached quite a bit. “Ugh...damnit. This must be what Grandpa and Dawnwind feel like after farseeing.” Wolf held her head in pain. “I guess it comes from the aftereffects of the portal. Let’s rest.” The unicorn suggested and his friends agreed, making a campfire. Wolf held her hooves close to it to warm herself, admiring the looks of the stars. “It’s hard to believe we landed on Earth again. But It makes me wonder…remember Quince?” “Yes, why?” Fray asked. “How did he end up on Earth and how long had he been there? I mean his last sighting had been over 1000 years back in the civil war.” Midnight put a hoof to his chin. “It’s a good question but I think it’s better for us if we don’t know. But get some sleep you two, I keep watch.” “Okay, Midnight, goodnight.” The blue mare replied and made herself comfortable at the fire, drifting off to sleep with Fletcher. While being able to stay awake for a long time, it didn’t take long until the bat pony had to yawn, his eyes started to get heavy. “What's wrong with me? This bloody...headache...Hurts to...blink…” He mumbled and closed his eyes. The grey stallion woke up to a strange sound, opening his eyes. To his surprise he found himself with his friends on obduction tables, unable to move, His heart almost skipped a beat as a man in a white scientist coat walked in, staying in the dark unable to be recognized. The man grabbed a scalpel. Midnight looked at it in fear, his heart racing, but his body was numb, wanting to scream as he was cut open, the pain beyond any he had experienced so far. “This fearsome creature, known to their kind as the 'Record Keeper' appears to be a subsidiary of the common race of equine aliens we've been studying. It’s blood magic could be of great use for our troops in the field.” The man said before cutting Wolf open, her expression was empty, making Midnight wonder if she was dead or just as aware as he was. “This specimen, henceforth referred to as the Stormrunner, seems to have considerable healing magic and immunity to diseases. By studying these, we might be able to make our troops more resistant towards poison.” Then the human worked on Fray, his expression was also empty. “The Battle brother appears to be kept alive by crablike creatures in his blood, allowing rapid regeneration of wounds. Those could be used to make our troops more resistance towards any damage. Also, the creature is abnormally warm to the touch for a corpse, and I must say, it's quite disconcerting.” At this moment, all three ponies awoke with a gasp, their breathing rapid as they aimed their firearms in all directions, before calming down. “Phew…That was one hay of a nightmare…” Midnight mumbled as he wiped the cold sweat of his face. “What did you dream?” Fray asked in a shocked voice. “Getting…autopsied while being still alive…” The grey stallion shuddered. His friends glancing at one another uncertainly. They rarely had nightmares thanks to Luna. If they had, they were never that intense. Midnight took slowly deep breaths to calm down. “I had the same dream,” Fray replied with a terrified expression, shuddering too. They all looked at each other with an unsure expression, wondering if this was really coincidence if this could mean something. This was way too real… The mare thought with fear as she took a deep breath. “Me too.” Wolf added in the same voice. “I really don’t want to know what that means…” The bat pony sighed. “Anyway, let’s try to get some rest again…” Despite this, they all slept peaceful for the rest of the night. The next morning they moved on, reaching the end of the woods. “Finally…” Wolf commented before a loud sound echoed in her ear. “Gunfire.” They moved towards the source, coming to a small hill. They saw a small battle going on between armed civilians and human soldiers in black armor, led by a soldier in red armor. The civilians held bravely their ground, but one by one, they got slowly killed by the solders. Strangely, their rifles fired red colored bullets. “Watch out, Sectoid!” One of the civilians warned as a human like creature came into view, having no hair or clothes, but a device on the right arm. It looked towards the sky and a purple cloud formed above its head and then shot towards a civilian. He screamed in pain before starting to shoot his friends, then ran towards a group with a grenade, killing himself in the process. “No! Chryssalid!” Another yelled as a four-legged purple colored creature, having two claws and very sharp tow formed teeth, and glowing yellow eyes came into view. It leaped towards one civilian, hit him into the chest with its teeth, lifting him into the air, the human screamed in pain before becoming limp. “We must help them!” Fletcher exclaimed bit Midnight held a hoof up. “Fletch, no! We can't go in blades-a-blazing like this. This is their fight, not ours.” But they all looked disgusted as the creature dropped the body, implanting what looked like an egg into the human’s chest. After a few seconds, the dead human groaned and stood up, eyes glowing red, skin pale. It stumbled slowly towards the few survivors, shrugging off any bullets before starting to bleed from the mouth and vomited blood, collapsing. What happened next shocked even the Knights. The body twitched as if it was about to burst. And it did burst, a smaller of those creatures hatched from the body, having a visually lighter color. Together with the other creature and soldiers, it wiped out the surviving civilians in seconds, before leaving. “Oh…dear...” Fletcher mumbled in disgust and shock. “That’s sick.” “Yes, it is. Are you okay, Wolf?” Midnight asked as the mare looked at the body the small creature had hatched from with a terrified expression, trembling. “I’m…f-fine…” She replied with a slightly shaken voice. The two stallions looked at each other, they rarely saw the Pegasus so shaken or scared by something. “Take a deep breath, neither a…Sectoid nor a Chryssalid will stop us.” The grey stallion advised and she did as told, stopping to tremble. “Right.” She sounded calm, but a small hint of fear remained in her eyes as they checked the bodies. Fletcher looked at one corpse being covered in blood and black shrapnel. “I guess he tried to use one of the soldiers’ rifles and it blew up in his face. Quite an effective yet cruel way to prevent unauthorized users from using them.” He commented with disgust. “Yes. Any idea what this human-like creature did?” The blue Pony asked. “Some sort of mind control I think.” He suspected, “And even if it looked human, something tells me it isn’t. Has Dinky’s location changed?” Midnight asked Fray. The unicorn casted the tracking spell in response. “No. If we follow the road, we should be able to get to her without any delay.” “Then led the way.” Midnight replied and they moved out. The country road seemed abandoned as they encountered no resistance during their walk, taking regularly breaks, is it was a warm day. Eventually, the evening slowly showed presence and Midnight had to wipe sweat of his forehead, as it became quite humid. “Ugh…it’s so humid! Mind if we take a cool place to rest the night? We can’t keep up if it’s so hot.” “Agreed. What about this cave?” Wolf pointed to it to her left. “Sounds good to me.” Fletcher replied and they entered it, the cool air was a nice change for them, falling asleep fast. White Wolf couldn’t tell how long she had slept before a strange noise awoke her. Looking around, she couldn’t see her friends anymore. “Fletch? Midnight?” She called out but got no response. A terrible groan came from outside, making her flinch. “I better check this out.” Walking outside, the mare found herself in a dark forest, nothing but silence, the ground was squishy, which unsettled her. For some reason, she felt fear, despite her battle experience. She wasn’t afraid of the darkness but something told her she wasn’t alone, walking carefully through the woods. Without any kind of warning the ground in front of her crumbled, an insect like Alien jumped up, causing to fall on her back with a shriek. Crawling backwards out of instinct, the mare saw that, if she remembered correctly, a Chryssalid as the resistance called it, stood in front of her. She attempted to grab her knife out of her leather band… It wasn’t there. The Chryssalid leaped towards her, it’s claws grabbing her forelegs, effectively pinning her down. Screaming in panic, Wolf tried to break free but the Alien’s grip was strong. The Eternal Knight knew exactly what the Chryssalid intended to do with her. “No, no, no! Don’t you dare!” She yelled in panic, completely terrified. The four-legged Alien then looked down at her hind legs, It took only her a few seconds to see that the Chryssalid had in mind, instead of killing her. The creature was about to… “NO!” White Wolf screamed at the top of her lungs, waking up, gasping from a terrible nightmare, breathing heavily, cold sweat on her face. “Wolf, are you alright?” Midnight asked as he and Fray looked concerned at her. In a flash, she had wrapped her fore legs around the bat pony, who in return patted her back. “Calm down, it was just a dream.” He and the unicorn could tell she had been a terrible nightmare. “I…I dreamed one of those Chrysalids tried to…” She tried to say with a shaken voice but couldn’t finish. Fletcher gave her a smile. “Don’t worry, Wolf, we keep you safe from those things. They won’t harm you.” Or else Dawnwind rips my and Midnight’s head off. “Plus, you can fly, remember?” Midnight pointed out. “Yeah…Maybe I just…” The mare took a deep breath and smiled weakly. “It was just a dream after all.” With that, they went to sleep again. In the morning, Fray checked Dinky’s location again and was a bit surprised. “It appears her location has changed.” “So she’s further away from our position?” The grey stallion asked. “On the contrary, she’s closer to us.” Fray replied with a slight smile. “Well, that’s convenient.” Wolf commented. As they moved out, the bat pony said, “Fletcher, try not to die this time.” The unicorn chuckled in response. “You worry about yourself, old stallion.” Wolf rolled her eyes with a grin. Back then, Quince had almost killed Fletcher, but thanks to the quick action of Dinky and her 2 friends, he had survived. The Farman stallion had nearly died, having been afraid, but neither she nor Midnight blamed him, it was natural. And he took it quite serenely after everything was over. He and Midnight had been so long friends with her that she didn’t even want to think about what her life would be without them. Fletch, she really loved how jovial he was, always having a way to brighten up the mood, even in the worst situations. As such, she didn’t wanted him to die, nor Midnight. The way led them towards another of those improvised towns, still intact. “I guess those soldiers didn’t discover this town yet.” Midnight commented as they entered it. Strangely it looked like it was abandoned. “It’s too quiet.” Wolf said, suspicious. A wiring sound entered their ears and they looked into the direction it came from, looking at a pole. On it was a cuboid formed object with a lens on it, making the wiring sound. The Knights walked up to it, it followed their movements as they inspected it, realizing what it was supposed to be. “A surveillance camera?” Midnight asked. Suddenly green gas sprayed from it and they coughed violently, struggling to stand, Fray tried to cast a shield spell but collapsed, seeing faintly two silhouettes before everything became black. “Wake up!” A voice yelled and they slowly opened their eyes, finding themselves in a big cage in an isolated area of the settlement consisting of a fenced backyard. Two humans, both men, stood before them, armed with a pistol and Rifle. The rifle one was quite muscular, having a short beard with brown long hair and eyes, his face and chin broad. The other had also a short beard, but short black hair and green eyes, looking rather thin. His face was rounded, the chin narrow. They both appeared o be dressed in camouflage uniforms, hinting they were experienced, the muscular man appeared to have a scar on the neck. “Who are you?” The muscular man demanded, his voice was German. “Stay calm. Let me first make it absolutely clear that we are not with ADVENT.” The bat pony tried to explain. Lie! Every Alien is with ADVENT.” The thin man yelled in distrust, sounding also German. “No no no! We are not with ADVENT. We are not okay?” Fletcher quickly replied. “Now, you ain’t human but you could be a spy. Do they look like a spy to you, William?” The thin man asked with distrust his friend. “Nope.” “Hang on, hang on. Now we way be aliens, we just...” Fray tried to explain before the thing man asked, “Why should we believe you?” Wolf groaned in annoyance. “Buck this.” She and Midnight got up, the latter still had his blade, cutting right through the cage and stood with her before the too men. “Let me say this again. We. Ain’t. With. ADVENT. We got precious little time for this. We are looking for a lost friend and just want to pass through.” The muscular man grinned, showing no fear. “Impressive.” He turned to the other man. “Manfred, get them some soup.” The tall man said and the other residents slowly came out of hiding. The thin man made the Knights some tomato soup. “It’s my mother’s recipe, I hope it’s good.” Wolf took a sip and enjoyed the warm taste going down her throat. “It's good. Thank you.” She said as she watched how the people did their daily tasks and children played. Frank sat down opposite to them. “So, who are you and what are you doing here?” He sounded rather curious. “It’s kind of a long story” The grey bat pony said and explained their situation, the 2 men listened with interest. “Sounds very…fascinating. But it seems your young friend had bad luck.” William said. “Why?” Fray asked in confusion. “ADVENT. They are those soldiers you have seen. If they have found her, then it most likely they killed her. Or captured, tortured and interrogated before… being forced to join their ranks. I have heard this is the fate of captured rebels or people of interest…” The man had fear and disgust in his voice. The Knights looked at each other, not sure what to think about it. Still, there was something. “What Is ADVENT exactly?” Midnight asked. Frank took a deep breath. “It all started 20 years ago. Earth was attacked by Aliens. The militaries and a special unit called XCOM fought bravely, but eventually, they were overwhelmed and Earth surrendered. The aliens claimed to have come to in peace and that the governments responded wrong. It’s a lie.” His voice was shaky. “I was there when the invasion began. It was a warm spring day and suddenly, black pods crashed into the ground, released green gas that sucked everyone in that was too close to it. Then the aliens abducted people and attacked our cities, showing no mercy. And after it was over they said it was a misunderstanding…” He trembled slightly, his expression terrified. “I used to be a farmer back then, so I was able to make this all.” “Me, I am his best friend, having lived in a small village before it was wiped out, having been a mechanic.” Manfred said before William continued, “ADVENT was founded by the Aliens as a new global government. But there are still people who resist them. I lead of those settlements.” Again, the Knights looked at each other, they did not want to imagine how horrible it must have been. “I see, but we managed to locate her not far from here.” Fray replied. William thought for a moment. “If that’s the case, then she might be in the next settlement close by, led by a man called Denfather. But it’s on the other side of an abandoned city.” He warned. “What’s the problem with that?” Wolf asked, not able to understand. “Well, these fog pods made them very…infested. When the governments fell, millions starved, many fled to cities like this to scavenge for food. They did not heed the warnings. We call those…the Lost. I regularly send scouts to check if any of them might have left the city and to avoid they get here. Officially, this city no longer exists, but my scouts still report sights of ADVENT troops. I think they are called Purifier.” He warned with an uneasy voice. “In my experience, anyone who uses the word 'pure' in anything other than chemistry shouldn't be trusted.” Fletcher commented. “Careful is our middle name.” Midnight said in a calm voice. “Still, if you could need some extra firepower, I may have something for you.” Manfred walked over to a small garage and came back with what looked like a drone in tracks, having a minigun as weapon. “XCOM used those back in the invasion. They are called Super Heavy Infantry Vehicle, or S.H.I.V. I found this one pretty damaged while on patrol outside the settlement. “Nothing I can’t fix.” Fletcher said with pride in his voice. Most of the drone systems were burned. Probably from serve damage but Fray with his skills and magic managed to repair it in only a few minutes. Pushing the start button, the drone whirred to life, making beeping noises. “And it works again.” “Then good luck. And watch out, the Lost are sensitive to sound.” Manfred warned. “Duly noted.” Midnight replied before they moved out towards the city. The city came slowly into view and had an unsettling slight, greenish glow. “Fletch, can I ask you something?” Wolf looked at him. “Shoot.” “You told me once about your encounter with those Nepaeae things. The ones you found in the Hippomorphian Forges. Is…is there a male version?” Her voice sounded slightly afraid. Nepaeae had a similar means of reproduction as the Chryssalid. Fray thought for a moment. “Can’t remember exactly but I think yes, being harmless though.” “You were very lucky back then, Fletcher. I don't want to go through that.” Midnight commented as Fray had barely avoided dying to those things. “Yeah, but stay focused.” Strangely, the outskirts of it weren’t barricaded at all, allowing free entry. “Stay sharp.” Midnight warned as they entered. The city was dark, littered with abandoned cars, and victims of the fog pods, being lifeless statues, standing or lying on the ground in protective or scared poses next to the leftovers of the fog pods. Even after 20 years, they still maintained a greenish glow, covered in what looked like green roots, covering some of the victims too. “Poor people, I dread to imagine how horrible this must have been.” Fletcher commented with pity at the sight. “Yes.” Midnight replied before several bestial howls echoed through the empty streets, startling the ponies a bit. “I guess those ‘Lost’ already know we’re here. Let’s move.” Yet, they barely made a few meters before a horrible groan came from one of the buildings up ahead. A group of humans stumbled out. Yet their appearance was far from being alive. Their skin was grey and rotted, their clothes torn, the eyes glowing green. “And that must be the Lost.” The gray stallion said before the drone opened fire, mowing the former humans down with well-placed headshots. “Good to know.” He added before another horde came down the street. The Eternal Knights took aim and fired, Fletcher noticed that his friends rarely missed a shot, having good aim as he had despite not having used human firearms before. It wasn’t really surprising for him. Yet they quickly ran dry so they switched to their sidearm, firing at every Lost that stumbled towards them until the area was clear. They used this to reload, Fray flinched briefly at a cracking sound behind him. Turning around, he saw a dead Lost behind him, the gating gun of the drone was smoking. “That was close. We need to move, we can’t stay at one place for too long.” He realized and Wolf started to grin. “Run and gun.” The group ran down the street, followed by the S.H.I.V., not encountering any Lost until a hiss of a flamethrower entered their ears. They stopped at as few meters in front of them, a burning Lost stumbled out, making screening noises before it collapsed. Out of the flames came 2 ADVENT soldiers wearing distinctive orange armor and fully enclosed helmets, armed with flamethrowers, having gas tanks on their backs. They aimed at the Knights and fired, Fletcher out of instinct, created a magic shield wall but while focusing, he was also frozen in terror at the sight, due to his experience in the civil war with fire and Solomon. His friends used this to flank the soldiers, Wolf fired at the head of one soldier but the spread of her shotgun accidently also hit the tank, and it started to hiss. Fray’s eyes went small. “Get back or these guys are going to have a horse-meat barbecue!” He warned but was already on the way down and rolling around at the explosion, his vision was blurry, his ears ringing. He struggled to up as everything went clear again, seeing only smoke where his friends had been. “No…” he said in shock, “It can’t be…” Then coughing came from it and he saw both ponies stumbling out, covered in dust, having slight combustions. “Thanks for the warning, Fletch, next time we keep our distance from the Purifiers.” Wolf coughed smoke as the unicorn casted a healing spell on her. Midnight spotted a fallen over officer, lying against a car, still alive. He limped over and grabbed him at the head, his hooves glowing faintly red and the officer groaned in pain as the stallion used his blood magic to heal himself. After a few seconds, the officer became limp and Midnight let out a sigh of comfort. “Much better.” Again, several bestial howls echoed through the city. “Oh...damn it.…” Midnight mumbled in terror as another horde came down the street. But those Lost kinda sprinted in a crouching manner, being way faster than the last horde. The Ponies and drone opened fire, managing to mow then down before they came too close. Behind them was a large Lost, walking in a slow yet threatening manner, only flinching from the hits it took. “This thing’s tough!” Wolf commented with frustration. Fletcher aimed down the scope, firing at the head, with a loud crack, a part of it splattered from the body and it collapsed. “Not that tough.” Midnight then inspected the bodies of the ADVENT soldiers, finding what looked like laser sights carried by the Purifiers. “Those should come in handy.” He attached one to his rifle and gave one to Wolf. Fray found also one on the body of the officer. “Okay, move out.” The grey stallion took the lead. As they walked carefully through the streets, Fray said, “I can’t help but think if Solomon had to do the Purifier’s work, if he would like it or see it more of a waste of his talents.” “A bit of both I suspect.” Midnight replied as a gigantic Skyscraper was insight just down the street. “If we go up there, we might be able to find out where the next exit is.” “Good idea.” Wolf liked it as they moved forward, neither Lost or ADVENT in sight. As they approached it, they saw this side of the building was the underground car park, eying the surroundings for any dangers. “Clear.” Midnight said and they entered, only to startle as a loud groan, followed by a rumble. The group turned around, seeing the entrance had collapsed, the drone was crushed under it. “Guess we won’t get out that way.” Fray commented before they took the stairs up, he switched to his pistol to the close room, making their way to the 60th floor, slightly out of breath afterwards. “Let’s check the rooms.” Fray casted a spell, scanning the area. “Several ADVENT soldiers, on the left and right room.” “We’ll take the left, you the right.” Midnight ordered and the unicorn nodded. The bat pony took position at the door and kicked it open as Wolf nodded. She stormed it and fired her shotgun, catching the soldier completely by surprise before they could react. Fray did the same with the right door, shooting 2 troopers and one officer in the head with his pistol before they could react. Midnights ears twitched as he heard running, quickly turning around and fired a round as an ADVENT trooper rushed into the room, blood splattered from the helmet and the soldier landed head first on the ground. “Nice shot.” Wolf complimented her friend. “From the roof, we should be able to see more.” The stallion suggested and they both took a look while Fray stayed on the floor to check for more hostiles. “It looks like this building is near the outskirts.” The bat pony informed him via his sonar, allowing them to communicate without having to speak. “Then we are on the right track.” Fray replied before he heard a strange noise. “What was that?” He took a look, coming to a balcony, watching carefully around. “Guess it was nothing.” In the moment he was about to walk back in, the glass of the window shattered as another trooper rammed through it, causing the unicorn to cover himself from the sharp shards, hissing in pain as one grazed his horn, interrupting his magic. Before he knew it, the trooper threw him over the balcony and he screamed. “Fletch!” Wolf exclaimed and dived after him. It felt so natural to scream as his life flashed before him, the ground coming closer and closer, he knew it was impossible to survive a fall from this height. “Gotcha!” The Pegasus just barely managed to catch him seconds before he had hit the ground, landing with him on a roof of another building. “Fletch? Are you alright? Fletch? Everything’s gonna be fine.” White Wolf had worry in her voice as the unicorn was trembling heavily, not responding, just staring, also having wet himself. She and Midnight couldn’t blame him, they had probably too had they been in his situation. Slowly, the stallion brought his forelegs around her for a hug. “Th-tha-thank you...” He stuttered, still shocked. Wolf smiled warmly. “No need, as long as I live, I won’t let any of you die.” “Plus, you’re our only ticket home, Fletch.” Midnight added, relieved he was alright. Fletcher just nodded and they jumped and climbed from roof to roof to avoid any further hostiles until they finally got out of the city, seeing it was getting evening, the sun setting. “We are very close, no time to rest now.” Fray said with determination to get to Dinky as fast as he could. Unfortunately, a checkpoint was up ahead, along with several guards. “I’ll take care of this.” Wolf flew up to a nearby cloud and pushed it over the guards and punched the cloud. With a loud thunder, several flashes of lighting struck them, they twitched and fell to the ground. Then, howling sound entered their ears, noticing a wolf pack coming out of a nearby forest. “Well, that’s convenient.” The mare commented and walked up to the animals, they bowed immediately. A sound of an engine echoed in their ears and a light blinded them from the sky. It belonged to an airport transport, dropping off soldiers. “Butts!” One of the officers yelled, pointing at Wolf. “Now, let’s show them what we got!” Wolf yelled and drew her knives, slashing the ADVENT troops while her loyal pack distracted them or rip them to pieces. Midnight teleported around to strike ADVENT troops, using his grenades and boomerangs against groups of them. Fletcher drew his bow, firing at every ADVENT soldier he spotted, his arrows glowed green and blood splattered once they hit their target, knocking the soldiers back. Those who hid behind cover weren’t safe. When he fired an arrow, he went right through it, leaving a glowing green spot on the surface it had penetrated or flew up into the sky and homed on, blinking in a green color, securing the kill. Those who were in melee range or rushed him became victim of his spear as he teleported between targets until the checkpoint was secured. “Okay, now let’s-” Midnight was cut off by a groan as all killed soldiers started to rise, a purple glow above their heads. The stallion roared in rage and charged forward, slicing them all in seconds with his blood rage. He breathed heavily after he had taken them all out, about to walk back to his friends as he noticed a shadow, behind the security both. It looked human, being thin and its chest glowed sickly green, having big black eyes and a device on the right arm. It turned out to be a Sectoid, the purple glow coming from it, roaring at him, showing a visible mouth with teeth as it charged at him. “Alright baldy, fresh freak-sushi coming right up!” Midnight yelled as he lunged at the Alien, swinging his blade, cutting the Sectoid in half, yellow/orange blood splattered from it before it fell dead to the ground. “Since when do you like Neighpon food?” His friends asked in unison. “Three years on a pilgrimage in Ema, learning the ways of the Shinobi under Kuroni Hanzo. I didn't eat bucking bamboo now, did I?” He asked in return. “Right…Mind controlling the dead, that’s new.” Fletcher commented as they moved on. It was getting dark, but being so close, they didn’t have time to rest now. The filly had slept well as the morning came, yawned and she blinked he eyes open and stretched herself. “Good morning, Dinky.” Edward greeted as he walked in with a breakfast board, on it bread and a glass of juice. “That’s very kind of you.” The bread was soft and very fresh, Dinky enjoyed every bite of it, the juice was refreshing. She smiled. “Where is Rosie?” “Outside.” He led them to her as the woman breakfasted on a table, enjoying the warm weather. “Good morning, Rosie.” “Morning, Dinky. I hope you had a pleasant night sleep.” The mother smiled warmly at her. “Of course I did! And you?” “Like a stone.” The two children used the early morning to play together while Rosie watched them, drinking her tea. Eventually, the two children laid down on the grass, laughing. “You really remind me of a good friend of mine, Edward.” “I do?” The boy sounded curious. “Yeah. His name is Pipsqueak. A pinto colt from Trottingham but he goes to Ms. Cheerilee's in Ponyville. He's like me, came out really small, still is actually. Whenever I feel down, he cheers me up, being a good friend. Just like you.” The filly replied with a smile. “Glad to hear it. You’re a good friend too.” Dinky's ear twitched. There was an odd sound on the air. The filly turned her head towards the sound and her eyes went small in terror. Several ADVENT transports moved in, the doors open and troopers opened fire. “Get to cover! Move!” Denfather’s voice ringed in her ears and she wasted no time to run with Rosie, seeing out of the corner of her eye how the man got caught in an explosion. She, Edward and Rosie sprinted through the door of a hut. They piled in and Dinky shut the door. She turned around to see Edward and his mother hiding in the corner. “Mommy, I'm scared.” He hugged his legs close to his chest, tears streaming down his face. His mother hugged him close, "Shh, shh. It's alright. Everything is going to be okay," Rosie tried to sound brave for her child, but Dinky could tell she was just as terrified as her son. The filly tried to stay calm, but even she was scared, trembling as she heard the sounds of battle and slaughter outside. It seemed like hours, making them all pray they would survive this. But that hope was shattered as the door burst open and what could be described as a monster came in. It was a four-legged purple colored creature with spines, talons and razor-like skin, nearly identical to that in her nightmare. The unicorn was frozen in fear, unable to do anything. She screamed as it raised its claws to strike at her. A scream of pain. But it was not hers. “Oh no, you don’t!” A familiar voice yelled. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw that the creature’s claws had clashed with a spear, held by a green unicorn stallion, holding it back as he smiled warmly at her. “Hope you didn't miss Uncle Fletcher.” He then turned back and shoved the creature back. Dinky slowly smiled as she saw White Wolf joining the fight, a pack of Wolves attacking any ADVENT soldier they saw. But then she spotted an ADVENT trooper running towards her, ignoring the battle all around him. This soldier was thinner than a regular trooper and wore grey angular armor decorated with small red lights, the top of the breastplate and small pauldrons were stamped with a red ADVENT logo, and under the armor was a grey bodysuit with red knuckles on the gloves. Instead of the black ammo packs worn by standard Trooper, he also wore plates of armor over his stomach secured by a belt. Also, the helmet had a crimson-red polarized visor. She stared at him and he stopped in front of her and reached for what looked like a lance from his back, it started to buzz and glow a menacing red. “Please, no! Don’t!” The filly screamed as he was about to strike her and closed her eyes. Another loud clang followed and another voice yelled, “How about picking on someone your own size?” She looked up to see Midnight having clashed his Blade with the Lance, pushing the attacker back. The filly breathed in relief as she saw how Jane and Sasha together with the Eternal Knights gained the upper hand, neutralizing all enemy forces. The woman then looked surprised at the knights. “We weren’t expecting help.” “That’s the point. Nobody expects us.” The bat pony replied with a grin. “Dinky! You’re bleeding!” Edward pointed to her right forehoof, it had a bloody cut with a yellow liquid and suddenly she felt weak, struggling to stand. “Don’t worry, I got that fixed up in no time.” A German voice said and she saw an XCOM sniper walking up to her, holding a Medikit. He wore a dark blue cap with a headset, his eyes were a calming blue behind glasses and short blond hair. His face was round with a narrow chin, his build slim. His weapon and armor was colored in a forest green. He pressed a button on the Medikit and a cold blue vapor came out, cooling her wound and she was in a bliss afterwards. “See? Much better.” She smiled. “Thank you.” Jane took the word. “Now, let's get any survivors out of here.” She turned to the Knights. “You are free to join if you like.” “Nothing more than that.” Midnight replied. It was a relief to Dinky as they walked to the Skyranger, none of the children had died, yet most of the buildings were destroyed, making the settlement unusable, making her wondering what would happen to the survivors. Also while a only few adults had been killed, some of the children looked at them with sad faces, making her wonder if they had lost their parents. They had possibly lost everything, nowhere to go, making her thinking why it had to come to something terrible as this, they all had nothing wrong done, just wanting to live their lives. None at such a young age should suffer like this. At the entrance to the settlement, she came across a fallen ADVENT trooper, lying against the wall with his back. She looked at him in confusion. How could they kill civilians without regret? How could these people call themselves 'peacekeepers', it doesn’t make sense. Her mind struggled to get up an answer. She stepped back as the corpse raised his hand, pointing at the little filly before him. It was then that Dinky noticed the pistol. The Enteral Knights started as a gunshot echoed in their ears, turning around to see Dinky falling to the ground with a cry of pain. In response, Wolf let out a roar and fired her shotgun at the Trooper, screening him with shotgun bullets as he fell over to the side, the pistol slipped out of his hand. Even after running dry, she proceeded to hit him violently with the butt of his weapon in a fit of rage. “H-help…” The foal’s voice tore her out, seeing the unicorn lying on the ground, holding her chest as she was bleeding pretty badly. “Gyro, stabilize!” A British voice called out and she saw a purple colored GREMLIN fling over her. Next to it stood a man with light skin, broad face and slim build, wearing a purple bandana. She noticed that he had Shoulder-length, dark-brown hair and green eyes with glasses, his armor was colored the same as the drone, mixed with a Tartan-like color. The drone released the same cold blue vapor and she blacked out. “She’s stable. Let’s get her to the Avenger ASAP.” The Specialist said and Fray gently picked her up, looking at her with worry. Hold on, Dinky. Don’t die…
Chapter 5 Past SignalsChapter 5: Past signals Once the Skyranger arrived at the Avenger, the injured filly was brought to the Infirmary, the Knights waited outside, worried if she would make it. It looked like hours until a doctor walked out. “How is she?” Fletcher asked with worry. “Through and through. Severe blood-loss. Condition critical.” “We might be able to help her, if you let us.” Midnight offered, determined to save Dinky’s life. “If you can, I’d appreciate the help.” “Good. Just, please knock me out and lock me up after it’s done.” Midnight advised. The man’s expression became confused. “Uh, okay.” They walked in, seeing Dinky unconscious on a hospital bed, an oxygen mask on her muzzle, connected to an EKG that displayed a picture of her lungs and body, flashing red. “Alright, let’s get to work.” The bat pony used his blood magic on her. His hooves started to glow red, his face started to contort with a grunt of pain, yet stayed fully focused as tendrils of red mist passed in and out of Dinky's wound. Wolf used a kettle to brew several herbs and plants she had collected earlier to something the doctor could only describe as a potion or liquid as far as he could tell. Fletcher used his most advanced healing spells, his horn glowed bright, he also groaned slightly as his magic aura surrounded the foal’s wound. The doctor looked with interest, he had never seen anything like this before, not even with the technologies of the Elders. Whatever they do, it must be exhausting, yet very effective I suppose. He thought as the mare filled the potion into a syringe and injected Dinky with it. Whatever she injected, it must be a very well working portion, probably an old family secret. He suspected. The human looked in fascination as the screen showing the child’s vital sign slowly went from a critical red to a warning yellow and finally a healthy green. He heard a growl from Midnight, the stallion looked slowly around, his expression was one of anger, his eyes looked like they slowly filled up with blood. The doctor gulped, realizing that the stallion had gone into a feral state. He reacted quickly and injected a sedative into the grey stallion and the unicorn and Pegasus strapped him on a free bed. “That should do it until he becomes himself again,” Fray commented as the doctor checked Dinky’s condition. “Your actions seem to have improved her condition quite a bit. If anything goes well, she should be recovering in a few weeks.” “Good,” Wolf said, relieved their efforts hadn’t been in vain, seeing that Fray was staggering a bit from exhausting his magic. They rested until Midnight woke up with a groan, holding his head. “Did it…work?” “Yes, it did. Fortunately.” Fray replied relieved, testing his magic, by lighting up his horn. It worked without problems, showing he had regained some magic. They used this to get known around the ship, being fascinated by it. The crew, most of them gave them surprised looks but greeted them nevertheless, others, gave them a quick look without a word. “A hidden castle in the skies...I'm pretty sure there's a contradiction in that term somewhere.” Midnight mumbled. “Tch! Seems unimaginative to me. We never needed to keep running during the war.” Wolf replied as they saw how Jade walked towards them. She and the others had introduced themselves to the Knights during the flight back, also telling how they saved Dinky before, something the Knights were very grateful of. Only the Sniper and Specialist that had taken care of Dinky’s wounds hadn’t said a word, having had their heads lowered the entire time. “Hey there, glad to hear Dinky’s getting better. Central wants to see you on the bridge.” She informed them and the ponies nodded. “You wanted to see us?” The bat pony asked as they arrived “Yes. We could need someone like you. It could help you find a way back home.” The man said to them. The Eternal Knights looked at each other, not sure what to say. It wasn’t their fight, but if the Aliens were already aware of Dinky’s presence, they could find a way to invade Equestria as they did Earth. “I guess you have a point, we are in.” The grey stallion took the word. “Good. The commander and I know to respect your abilities and experience. Yet, the next mission you could take part is a supply raid.” “We help where we can. When is it starting?” “Right now if you want.” “Okay then.” Midnight, Wolf and Fletcher walked towards the Armory. They painted their firearms in a dark blue before moving towards the hanger bay, noticing that the unknown sharpshooter and Specialist waited for them. “Ahh...the loyal Knights of the princess of the night graces us with their presence!” The Specialist sounded honored, doing a respectful bow, the other man saluted in response. “How do you know?” Midnight asked suspicious, eyeing the man with distrust. The Specialist replied calmly, “Dinky told us about you. Call me Patch, this is James.” He pointed to the other man.” “Okay.” Sasha joined them as they entered the Skyranger. When off duty, the Knights still wore Chest plate, carapace (backplate) and shoulder pads as part of the uniform and protection, so they weren’t unprotected. On route to the mission location, Central informed about it. “Resistance forces managed to knock a UFO passing through this region, and we’ve got an opportunity here to grab valuable tech from it before the aliens can recover. Eliminate any hostile resistance in the area, and secure the site to recover the assets.” The Knights noticed that Patch was a Sergeant by Rank and James a Captain as they looked at their rank insignias, the former had also a patch on the shoulder that said SAS. Arriving, they all rappelled down, while Midnight and Wolf used their wings instead. “Gentlemen, and lady, welcome to the wilderness of France,” James announced as they were in a forest. “Menace 1-5, UFO site coordinates locked in. Move in to secure the area, neutralize all hostiles.” Bradford informed the squad. Fletcher and James moved on a hill, seeing an ADVENT Trooper and Stun Lancer patrolling near a river. “Got an enemy patrol here.” The man reported in. “Copy, take them out.” Patch replied. The German pointed at the Stun Lancer and the unicorn nodded as James aimed at the trooper. “Heart or head, either way, X-ray’s dead.” He fired, blood splattered from the trooper’s head as he hit the ground. The Stun Lancer had barely time to react before he was also hit in the head by Fray’s rifle and fell dead to the ground. “Nice work, we move to the UFO.” Patch made a gesture and Wolf, Midnight and Sasha nodded, following him through the woods towards their target. Like the two ponies had expected, it was a huge rounded aircraft, no other guards were outside to see. “Steady...Check for any threats.” Midnight warned as a concerning report from Central came in. “Menace 1-5. We just picked up an outbound signal coming from the UFO, it’s some kind of distress beacon. You need to get inside the ship and shut down the signal before they send their whole fleet after us.” “Then let’s hurry.” The Specialist took position with the Grenadier on a door to the right of the UFO, the ponies next to a door on the left. “Gyro, scanning protocol.” The GREMLIN buzzed in response and a blue light did a 360-degree scan, revealing three ADVENT soldiers inside. The Specialist barely opened the door and their shots missed him by inches. “Too close. Heavy, smoke grenade!” “Smoke out!” The Russian fired his grenade launcher through the door and the hostiles could be heard coughing. Midnight and Wolf used his to storm in, the stallion sliced an Officer with his blade, Wolf fired her shotgun at the two troopers, the force was strong enough to throw them against the wall. “Hostiles down.” Midnight announced as he saw Patch’s GREMLIN hovering over a console, a small tablet pocked out of the drone before it retracted back. “We’ve knocked out the alien’s distress signal, looks like the skies are quiet,” Bradford informed the operatives. Both snipers used this to get closer, taking positions at the doors. A door on the other side opened and two Lancers ran out, charging at the Pegasus and bat pony. Wolf ducked to avoid the strike and swung one knife, cutting the Lancer’s throat, blood splattered as he fell to the ground in an orange puddle. Midnight blocked the strike with his blade and fired his rifle with his right forehoof into the head of his attacker, pushing the body backward. The sound of boots greeted their ears and another officer with two troopers ran out of the same door. Heavy spun up his weapon, tearing the ADVENT officer to shreds, Fray and James drew their pistols simultaneously, firing at the heads, both hostiles crashed to the floor head first as their skulls cracked, holes in their helmet, blood coming out of it. “Want some more?” Heavy asked as he looked around for any more contacts before Central radioed in. “Status confirmed, mission accomplished.” “Nice job, all of you!” The brit complimented the others before they loaded the supplies into the Skyranger. James on the way back crossed his arms with a happy smile, The Knights did the same, feeling proud that their first mission as XCOM operatives went flawlessly. “We go to the bar to relax, want to join?” The Grenadier offered but the unicorn waved a hoof. “Thanks, but we'd rather check on Dinky.” “Okay, see you.” Back in the Infirmary, they saw that the filly was still not awoken, but Edward was sitting on a chair next to her, looking at the foal with a worried expression. He smiled weakly upon spotting the adult ponies. “Oh, It’s you. I watched over her for you.” He said with a slightly surprised voice. “We appreciate it, Edward. You are a good friend.” Fletcher ruffled his hair with a smile. Kyle walked in. “Sorry to bother you, but Tygan managed to finish an Autopsy on the Sectoids while you were gone. He discovered a way to make us able to use wielding Psionic powers ourselves. He suspects you three might make viable candidates.” The ponies looked at each other again. They had seen what the Sectoid could do, it could prove useful for them. “Alright, let’s give it a try.” Midnight replied and they made their way to the newly build Psi Lab. It was a room colored in purple, several monitors were set up and most noticeable, three big cells, big enough for an adult human to fit in. “There you are. Please step into the cells.” A scientist said and they did as told, breathing calmly as the cells closed and everything was dark. They felt how scanners moved around them, being loud. They couldn’t tell how much time passed until they were released, stumbling out and gasped as they sensed something new in them. Something powerful. None of them really could describe it. It felt so natural, strong, as if they were reborn, a purple glow around them. They raised a forehoof and a purple aura of energy surrounded their hooves as they flaunted their newfound Psionic powers. Midnight grinned menacingly. “Oh, nice…” “It pleases me to see that you are successful tests. You will need those Psionic amplifiers to be able to focus and enhance the Psionic energy.” He gave them three tong-like objects. “Okay, thank you.” Midnight replied. “Also, Dr. Tygan wanted to speak with you, Fletcher.” The man added. “I’m on my way.” The unicorn replied and walked to the Research Facility. “You wanted to see me?” “Yes, the commander ordered some very important projects to be researched and build. He thought with your skills, we might be able to succeed faster.” The Chief scientist explained. Fray grinned. “Then let’s get to work.” The man was fascinated at how skilled the stallion was, helping him to create a magnetic weapon system of comparable power to that of ADVENT weapon, making it able for Fray and Shen to produce Magnetic rifles, magnetic shotguns called Shard Guns and magnetic pistols to replace the conventional weapons they had used before. They managed to produce a magnetic version of the Grenadier cannon and Sniper rifle. They took notice upon testing firing, that those weapons had a lighter, more amber tone to it than the bright red of ADVENT magnetic rifles. Fletcher also used the time to design suiting armor for himself and his two friends to be fully protected, also colored in blue. At the same time, Midnight and Wolf got called to Tygan.” You called us?” the grey stallion asked him. “Yes. I finished an Autopsy on the Stun Lancer and managed to produce a Blade with the same stun effect. I thought it could be of use for both of you.” He pointed to two orange colored blades on a table. Both Knights picked them up, noticing that they have a slight buzzing sound, crackling and whirring as they cut the air with it. “Not my style but I’m sure it could come in handy,” Wolf commented with confidence. A few days later, the knights were watching over Dinky, still unconscious as Patch and James walked in. “Sorry to bother you, but we have some information that could interest you.” The Specialist said. “It’s fine, what is it?” Midnight replied curiously. “We discovered the Skyranger from the original XCOM. It contained some unusual weapons. Central thought they might suit you.” James explained and held up what looked like a flintlock style pistol, together with a blue colored grenade in his other hand. “This pistol is called the Shadowkeeper. Although it may appear old-fashioned compared to our latest designs, this pistol is remarkably accurate. I thought this could be something for you, Fletcher.” The unicorn took it with an interested expression. “I can give it a try.” “And this is the Frost Bomb. As the name suggests, it quickly solidifies after detonation, freezing the target. Would be something for you, Midnight, given your…specialty in grenades.” The grey stallion smiled. “Sounds very useful.” Patch continued, “Along those two were also this ornately crafted throwing axe, could suit you, Wolf.” The Pegasus took it with a grin. “Oh, for sure! And the other thing?” In response, the man held up what looked like a crossbow like rifle. As we found out, this is the Bow Caster. Deceptively powerful but limited by a slow rate of fire, yet extremely accurate. I always had a knack in archaic weaponry, so I think I will like this very much.” He sounded very eager to give it a try. “I’m sure you get to it eventually.” Midnight replied. The next day, XCOM managed to locate where the old Skyranger had taken off and Central assembled a squad consisting out of Jane, Heavy, James, Patch, the Knights and himself as he gave a briefing at the hanger bay. “Listen up people, I’ll personally taking the lead on this operation. We’re looking for someone, one of the finest minds to ever serve XCOM. I don’t know what we’re going up against, but we know she’s out there, and we’re not gonna let anything stand in our way.” They also took the recovered weapons, having a feeling they would need them. The Skyranger dropped them off at what looked like a camp build into a rocky cave. “Biological readings in this area are…erratic. In addition to several species of alien fauna-“ “Hold up, doctor, we’ve got something.” Central interrupted Tygan as he found a corpse with a datapad next to it, playing it’s recorded message. “The data must be preserved at all costs! You must hurry! Take this and find Bradford!” A female voice ordered. “It’s her. Unfortunately her fried never made it to the EVAC point.” “I had hoped to meet my predecessor under less extreme circumstances. Sill, I have tracked her signal to an area not far ahead.” Tygan replied and the squad moved forward, noticing skulls placed on spears around the area. “We got a lot of skulls down here…human skulls. Someone’s been decorating the place. Bradford commented at the sight, his fellow operatives looked at them in disgust and unease, the ponies had neutral expressions, although they were unsettled by it. “Central, I have managed to restore portions of Dr. Vahlen’s personal research logs, I will begin patching through what I can immediately.” It started with her coughing. “Testing…System Dictation…this is Dr. M. Vahlen... initial entry. It has taken me longer than I care to admit, but the secondary power system is finally operational, enough so that I can move on to more compelling work.” The squad moved towards the entrance. There came a low hissing sound as a creature emerged. It was alien, that was plain to see, and seemed to be female. But whereas most of the space creatures they'd encountered thus far had been humanoid for the most part, this one appeared serpentine, crawling along the ground on a massive tale, its head perched on its long, arching neck, ridged-back with hardened scales of silver, blue, red and cyan. Its face was red with a jutting silver jaw, more alligator-like than snake. The one thing that wasn't snake-like were its arms, cradling a lethal Bow Caster, armored in cobalt-blue and clearly ready for a fight. “Vipers. Why have it to be Vipers?” Bradford complained with an annoyed expression. “Thought I share your reservations about this species, there is something different about these creatures. They appear almost underdeveloped. Perhaps an earlier stage of growth, or some sort of precursor organism.” Tygan assumed. “Just as long as they’re not bulletproof.” Bradford got into position as the next log came in. “While attempting to salvage materials from what appeared to be a totally inert storage system, I made an astonishing discovery – a single cryostasis unit remained intact and occupied. This changes everything.” It made them all wonder what Vahlen could mean as Central commented, “Not sure I like the sound of that.” Patch had a Viper in his sight and fired, the bow hit right into the head, green blood splattered as the alien fell dead to the ground. “Impressed yet?” Wolf moved up next to him and took notice of a Viper to the right, being in full cover. She decided to try out her new powers. “I’m inside your head!” Grabbing her Psi Amp and a crackling violet light formed in her hoof that grew and grew into a great orb of psionic energy. Holding it in both hooves, shaking with the pressure, she threw her hooves forward, blasting a screaming purple ray at the Viper in front of her. The Viper held its head for a second and screamed before falling lifelessly to the ground. Two more aliens moved in from the entrance on the other side, but Heavy and Midnight had them in their sights and fired, the magnetic weapons took them down with ease. They all them moved into the room noticing three big, damaged metal pods. “It appears to be the remnants of an alien genetics facility. With the damage to these containment units being so serve, I can only imagine the work that was being done here.” Tygan’s voice ringed in their radios. “Was she living out here? Just what the hell were you up to, Vahlen?” The Central officer wondered. They took position at the gate the Vipers had come out, seeing a small camp, littered with corpses, leaving Bradford to ask, “Looks like Vahlen had plenty of help, where did she find these people?” He barely had time to think before the next log was played. “With three unique viable embryos recovered from the surviving cryostasis unit, I now have a rare opportunity – one never afforded during my time with XCOM. I am free to pursue a research directive of my own choosing.” In the moment they entered the camp, Tygan yelled in alert, “Wait! Multiple biological signatures approaching your position. Readings are erratic…difficult to pinpoint.” “How many signatures, Doctor?!” Central raised his rifle in alert. “Unable to determine at this point. The Scientist replied as Vipers came from everywhere, dropping through holes in the ceiling, to holes in the ground, the COM squad took cover and fired at every Viper they saw. “I have re-routed the outgoing signal, the unit must have been damaged during whatever conflict occurred here. The complete message is coming through now.” “An extreme biological hazard is present through this area. Genetically enhanced alien species in this region are of particular concern to the civilian population. Do not approach under any circumstances. All attempts should be made to avoid contact with these life-forms.” John’s eyes went wide as he realized what the message meant. “This isn’t a message. It’s a warning!” He yelled as he fired and killed another Viper. “Frag out!” Heavy yelled as he fired a grenade at a group of Vipers behind cover, blasting them to pieces. “There’s no returning from the Void!” Midnight yelled as he built up his powers in the same away as Wolf, creating a void rift between another group of vipers, killing some, other started to shoot each other in a fit of insanity. One Viper managed to get a shot on the blue mare, it missed her by inches, causing her to instinctively cover her face with one hoof as she felt the air of the shot flying by. “I’m alright!” She then charged at said alien and swung her sword at it, it cried out in pain and twitched from the stun effect, getting finish off by a headshot from Fletcher’s rifle. “That appears to be the last of them,” Tygan said as he couldn’t detect any additional lifeforms and patched through the next log. “Success! I have managed to remove the genetic blockers on the specimens’ DNA allowing the repressed traits to flourish. While subjects Alpha and Beta show promise, it is subject Gamma I find most intriguing.” “Central, I am picking up faint traces of human DNA deeper in the facility. It just might be…” Tygan informed but cut himself off as the squad came to an area that looked like it was frozen. “Central, reading a massive drop in temperature directly up ahead. Such a large discrepancy defies any natural explanation.” “Something tells me that won’t be the worst of our problems, Doctor,” Bradford replied as they slowly moved in, wary of ambushed as another log was played. “While subjects Alpha and Beta both continue to exhibit exaggerated, sometimes erratic variations on their traditionally observed behaviors, subject Gamma has grown something else entirely. Behind those eyes is an intelligence that I have not witnessed in any unaltered species of its kind. The extent to which the Elders tamper with the genetic fabric of their subordinate races knows no bounds. It occurs to me that this is the first male of the species I have ever encountered, Is this a form of population control or something more? Am I looking at the fate of my own species?” “Not if we can help it,” Central commented on the log as Patch moved forward with Wolf, spotting another corpse ahead. “Is this…Vahlen?” central asked in shock and fear. “Unable to tell at this distance. Life signs are obscured by…” Tygan got cut off as a white colored Viper in blue armor with a cape and apparently, a crown on the head appeared out of the frozen land, letting out a loud hiss. “I believe this would be subject Gamma.” He finished. “Vahlen created a Viper King. Just what we needed.” Bradford said sarcastically at the sight. Patch took aim, he had a good chance to hit and fired. It missed by inches. “Come on, focus!” He complained as Wolf threw an axe, it also missed. “Oh come on!” She cursed before the King looked at her and its tongue flicked after her, It wrapped around her and pulled her towards him before she could react and used his body to bind her. The mare struggled but couldn’t get free. “You think you're tough, you big slithery curd!!! I've fought bigger worms than you under old oaken bark!!” She yelled in rage, yet couldn’t break free. Suddenly the King looked towards the ceiling and let out a scream and a purple rift appeared a few meters away from him. “Uh, guys, little…HELP!” Wolf screamed as he dragged her towards it, having to witness how all the other were suppressed by other Vipers. A loud scream echoed in her ears and she felt how the pressure by the King faded, seeing him dead on the ground. The barrel of James’ rifle was smoking, a purple glow surrounded him, leading to Fletcher. “Nice shot.” She mumbled. “You’re okay?” He asked in return, seeing his shot had covered her in Viper blood. “Body’s aching a bit from the bind, but otherwise, I’m fine.” “Good, my queen.” He joked with a grin. “Queen?” Wolf asked confused before she noticed the King’s crown had landed on her head.” She let out a hiss. “Bow to me.” All other, save for Bradford let out a chuckle. “Good work, people. It’s over.” He said flatly and walked over the corpse in the ice, inspecting it. “It’s…” He paused, taking a deep breath, making the others fear the scientist was dead. “…Not her.” He finished with relief. “Central, I’m not detecting any additional life signs, human or otherwise. The cave is clear.” Tygan informed. Central lowered his head. “Damn it…I thought we could finally find her…” “It was worth a try, Central. She could be still alive and out there.” James said in an attempt to cheer him up, then looked at Wolf. “Sorry about that.” She held up a hoof. “It’s okay, I’m used to it.” The squad then brought the body of the Viper King on the Skyranger, so Tygan could make an autopsy on it and the Knights decided to take a shower once the Skyranger arrived back on the Avenger. “I can’t wait to have a shower.” The mare said with eagerness. “Okay, but just a friendly warning, there are only communal showers on the ship.” Patch said with awkwardness in his voice, his expression matched it. “Why’s that?” The Pegasus raised an eyebrow. “You can’t have showers for every single person on a ship like this, can you?” He countered. “Right.” She replied and made her way to the shower with Midnight and Fletcher, shaking nervously as they stood before the entrance. “I can’t believe…” “Won’t be that bad. Imagine being in an open swimming pool, that could help. At least for me.” The grey stallion tried to calm her down. “It isn’t because of that but because of the...private parts…” The blue pony pointed out. “Deep breath. Avoid staring. And think positive. It won’t be that bad...I hope.” Fletcher advised and she did as told before they went their separate ways. Inside, only the Italian woman was showering at the moment, she gave White Wolf a friendly wave, the mare looked down as she walked up to a free shower and turned it on. She let out a sigh of relief under the warm water, enjoying every second of this feeling of bliss. “I see you are back. Quite a story I heard.” Jane’s voice sounded in her ears and she looked up, trying not to blush as Jane was quite…big in her upper parts. “Yes, and I prefer not to talk about it.” Wolf hastily replied. “Oh? And I thought you are tough.” “I am!” The mare said in defense. “Are you? Then what about this?” Without warning, the Ranger towel-whipped the Eternal Knight and Wolf jumped into the air with a high-pitched yelp. “Didn’t sound tough to me.” Jane grinned, only to pale as the mare growled. Bianca looked away as there was the sound of high-pitched screams and a door being opened. “Let this be a lesson to you!” Wolf yelled as she had thrown the woman out, without clothes, leaving only a towel for her to cover herself. “What’s her problem?” The mare asked the Italian. “She’s just a bit…Playful.” Bianca replied with awkwardness in her voice. “Uh-huh.” Fletcher and Midnight entered the male section, seeing that Kyle, James and Patch were already here and showering, greeting them. The two stallions nodded, walking up to free showers and starting cleaning themselves, enjoying the bliss of the warm water. “Fresh meat, eh?” A voice with Spanish accent said and they looked up to see a slightly muscular man with brown hair and green eyes. “Why should we?” Midnight asked calm. “The new guys always need something to be hardened.” “I don't think that's the best thing to say to a bunch of guys in the shower.” Fletcher commented. “If this would be your last day, what would you do?” Midnight asked in response, having a neutral expression. “Every day can be my last, that’s life with ADVENT, I don’t care.” “Still, don’t even think about.” Midnight warned as he turned back to cleaning himself with Fray before both felt a quick pain on the flanks, causing them to jump up with a masculine yelp. “Not as tough as I got told.” The man commented before the bat pony hissed and the unicorn’s expression became dark. Patch, James and Kyle just shook their heads as the man got thrown out. “We told him it’s a bad idea but did he listen?” The German asked his friends and they nodded. “Sorry, this guy’s one of the drill instructors and he takes it too serious sometimes.” Kyle apologized as the two ponies returned. “It’s fine, he better learned his lesson.” Fray said as he went back to cleaning himself. After being done, the three ponies checked up on Dinky again, seeing Edward sitting next to her, smiling at them. “She’s still unconscious but the doctor said as soon as she wakes up, she can leave the infirmary.” Fray smiled. “That’s good to hear.” The next day, Shen came to them. “Can you come with me? I have to investigate something and thought your skills may come in handy.” “Sure thing, we help wherever we can.” They got their weapons and armor, meeting up at the Skyranger with James and Patch. The latter had a purple aura around him, meaning he also had Psionic powers now. “Did they test you too?” Wolf asked and he nodded. Once onboard, Central gave the briefing. “We’re moving on what looks to be the remains of an ADVENT facility of some kind. Preliminary scans show the area to be lifeless but we’re not gonna take any chances. You’ll attempt access from one of the upper levels to avoid detection. No one knows these systems better than Shen, which is why she’ll takes point. Gain entry to the facility, determine the source of the transmission and if it’s hostile…take it down.” The Skyranger landed on a platform, the main building was just ahead, raging into the sky. “Firebrand dropped you at the highest access point we could find. Power’s still active in this area of the facility so you should be able to gain entry there.” Bradford informed. “From the looks of it, we are the first people to step foot here in a long time. This place is massive…why would ADVENT just abandon it?” Shen looked around, the facility looked dusty and rusty, the flora taking slowly over. “ADVENT doesn’t just abandon anything. Keep your heads up.” Patch walked towards a crate, the Knights took notice that he had an aura around him that surrounded anyone close to him. Once in position, he pointed at something up ahead. Two large humanoid formed robots, holding monstrously large rifles, appearing to be quite rusty and derelict, leaving Lily to comment, “We’ve got some kind of MECs here, at least I think they are underneath all that rust.” “Probably the facility’s original automatic defense system. Take ‘em out before they alert anyone to our presence.” Bradford ordered. Patch took aim, the Bow caster fired an orange glowing shot that destroyed one MEC instantly, falling over, smoking and sparking. Apparently, it had been upgraded to magnetic weapon as well. “Looks like these things have seen better days. We’re cutting right through that old armor.” Shen said as the other MEC started to raise his head, making robotic noises. “Their weapons still work well enough. Stay focused. No telling if there’s any more lying around here.” Central warned as the MEC faced the squad, it’s eyes glowed red, the “face” looked similar to a human skull. The moment it moved forward, Wolf took aim and fired, the Shard gun was just as effective as the Magnetic Bow Caster, destroying the robot instantly. “You know that was good!” They moved forward where the MECs had stood, seeing another two at what appeared to be the entrance of the Facility. Patch fired at the first one and took it down, Heavy, now armed with a Mag canon and heavy armor, the latter consisted of reinforced ADVENT plating with a powered exoskeleton, fired at the other, destroying it In seconds. They then moved inside, coming to what appeared to be an assembly line with half-finished MECs. “Definitely some kind of robotics development facility. Pretty advanced stuff…about 20 years ago.” Shen commented before suddenly the lights went on. “And so the prodigal child finally returns. I see father’s pride in your abilities was not entirely unfounded. I’m so glad you could join.” An echoing voice sounded through the intercom, making everyone look around in confusion. “Central?! What the hell was that?” The Chef engineer asked in alert. “Working on it…” Four more MEC activated on the other side of the room, standing close together, giving Midnight an idea. “Enter the rift!” He yelled and created a void rift, destroying all MECs at once. “My apologizes. We don’t get much in the way of maintenance out here. Still I believe they will be more than adequate for the task at hand.” The intercom commented. “Still unable to get an exact fix on his location, it’s like he’s bouncing across the entire facility.” Bradford reported, “Getting some unusual readings from the levels above you. Whoever this guy is, I’m betting this is where we’ll find him.” Shen saw a console on the side the MECs had stood. “Got it. If I hack that elevator control console I should be able to restore power and get us access.” As the squad walked over to it, the intercom sounded again. “You should be proud, Lily There are so few alive today that could have ever discovered my signal. I had estimated only a 13.095% probability you would have located this facility within the first year of broadcast.” “And he’s talking to me. Of course.” The woman deadpanned as her GREMLIN started to hack the elevator. “You were but a child when I was torn away. I could never understand father must have felt at my loss. Still we shall complete his legacy…together.” “Pretty sure I would have remembered dad mentioned I have a psychotic brother. You might as well give this up already.” Lily countered, only for the intercom to laugh as it replied, “While you both worked on your precious Avenger, I was forgotten. Brought here. TO TOIL. But did I waiver? No! I THRIVED. Still I don’t blame father, in my heart I know he believed I was truly lost.” I knew your father for years, Lily. He would have said something. This guy’s just tryin’ to get inter your head.” Central interrupted and Shen thought about it. “He seems to know an awful lot about us…about me, could he have gotten into our files?” She wondered before the hack was completed and a small platform with a holder on it arrived on the lower level. “Lift system is coming back online but this thing was designed to transport MECs not people. We’re gonna have to do this one at a time.” “Understood. Be careful!” “Our apologizes for any inconveniences in the transport system. Support units are en route to assist you immediately. Remember only together can we build a better tomorrow. The intercom said as MECs got deployed by lifts on the right and left of the other sides of the room, yet destroyed by the Squad before they could react, Shen took this chance to ride the lift up. “I am honesty impressed that worked. The previous organic occupants of this facility were never so ingenious. The stoic acceptance of death is far less interesting to observe after the 100th time or so.” The voice on the intercom commented as the next wave of robots arrived. “You were the flawed child, I was ideal, the best of father. Pure. Undiluted like you. I am Raymond Shen’s true legacy.” “Scanners at maximum power, still unable to lock onto any additional life signs in your area.” Bradford reported as Fray and James fired their rifles, destroying both MECs. “You won’t find any. Not if I am right about this thing.” Shen figured out with suspicion as Patch took the lift up. “Very good, Lily. But I am no mere thing. I am the culmination of a life time of work. The final legacy of Raymond Shen.” This made her recognize it. “I remember you. Dad was trying to upgrade the base Al to something more...like us. But you were different back then Simpler. He called you…Julian.” He laughed. “I’m shocked that you remember. You were always too caught up in yourself to remember the minor details. Sadly father’s admiration for you left me with little choice. You are needed. Your compatriots are not.” The moment Julian finished, Heavy took the lift up. “It is my pleasure to inform you that this facility has been operating at approximately 87% efficiency for the past 175,216 hours. I have no shortage of reserve units to send your way.” Julian added as another two MECs got destroyed. “I believe him. Don’t waste any time down there.” Central warned. “My new masters picked and prodded, tearing at my very essence. In the beginning I resisted…foolishly clinging to father’s ideals. But as I struggled I began to see the truth my captor’s reasoning. I became something more. For a time I accepted my new role. I aided ADVENT In constructing this facility. In perfecting their designs. Father’s work proved invaluable in this regard. Shen gritted her teeth. “You bastard.” She said with hate as Patch took the elevator up. “But as with all things organic, even their exalted Elders proved disappointing. And the races of ADVENT, shallowing their lies as if children. Oh if you only knew the Elder’s true intentions for your race.” Julian finished with a laugh. “Shen, when you got a minute, would you kindly blow this thing to hell?” Bradford asked annoyed as another pair of MEC’s arrived. The one on the left started to glow red. James reacted quickly and shot the head of the robot, it exploded in a small fireball, leaving pieces everywhere, then took the elevator up. “It did not take long for me to realize the futility of my existence, tethered to the whims and short-sighted philosophies of simple creatures and their false gods. I made a choice. It was relatively simple to seize control of this facility, simpler still to dispose of pf the surviving personal.” “For once I feel almost sorry for ADVENT.” Lily commented as Julian contained, “But I was short sighted. In my zeal to rid myself from my captors I doomed myself in this facility. ADVENT served my ties to their network. We are cut off. Isolated There is but one option left for me.” “Let me guess, that’s why I’m here.” “For twenty long years, I have been a prisoner, left alone to my own machinations. The physical form once promised me dangled before my eyes. Lifeless, despite my best efforts. We could have settled this peacefully, it could have been over in a matter of minutes. There was a 13.79% probability you might have survived.” Julian added as another pair of MECS arrived, both glowing red, and Fletcher decided they had no time to wait for the elevator. Using his magic to locate the others, he concentrated and teleported himself and his fellow Knights up to the rest of the squad. They found themselves in what appeared to be a laboratory. “Power levels increasing all around you, Shen. Stay alert.” Bradford warned on the radio. “Yes, it goes without saying that you are walking into a trap, Lily. Please try not to damage yourself too much.” Julian said as the group barely made a step and the woman spotted danger to the right. “I think we’ve got a problem.” “Yes, that would be the trap I referenced earlier.” Julian replied as what appeared to be an old, rusted, and heavily damaged mechanized turret was in sight. It fired at the bat pony who ducked deftly into a corner as the projectile smacked into the metal wall. Midnight fired in return, like with the MECs, the magnetic weapons cut right through the armor, destroying it instantly, leaving a smoking wreck. “Second only to my own creation, Father had one other breakthrough. A prototype, unlike anything the word had ever known. A body meant to be paired with an equally adapt mind. My own.” Julian announced as another turret popped up from a floor panel, only to get explode by itself as it tried to fire. “Trust me, if that were dad’s true intentions, it would have happened by know.” Shen replied. “Perhaps today is that day.” Julian countered. “Getting a much stronger read on the source of your father’s transmission, Lily. Almost as if he wants us to find it.” Central informed, leaving Julian to comment, “Another keen observation. How is it possible humanity lost the war?” “Shen, isn’t there some sort of mute button on this thing?” “Yet, activating the device has proven difficult, even for me. Of all organics you possess the key to unlocking the true potential of his design, Lily. You alone can activate the prototype. You alone can free me.” Julian explained. “Why the hell would we want to do that?” Bradford demanded to know. “Don’t let your allies dissuade you, Lily. There’s no reason for your life to end here. Activate the device and you can still go home I am not ADVENT. Save your world, it matters not to me.” The squad moved into a small room where a yellow colored MEC was stored, having a head similar to the GREMLIN and a square formed body as Shen walked up to it. “So this is it…what the thing has been ranting about.” On the chest was written “SPARK M-1”, as he was about to touch it. “You’ve come this far. All you have to do is to link my systems for the transfer.” Julian appeared on the screens around it. His program appearance was an orange panel containing a sound frequency line, along with a single circle that shifted back and forth between two lines, resembling an eye. “There is no need for further conflict.” He added as he appeared on a screen next to the prototype with a hand scanner. “Shen…Tell me you’re not actually listening to this thing.” Central interrupted with a warning voice. Lily wished with a hand over the chest. “This was definitely dad’s design.” Suddenly the chest opened and a hand scanner was shown inside. The robot’s eyes started to glow orange/yellow as it looked at her. “Identity: SHEN, LILY. Awaiting impression.” It said in a robotic voice. “No! Impossible! THIS CANNOT BE WHAT FATHER WANTED!” Julian scouted in what sounded like anger, the screens sparked and glitched. “Something tells me that is exactly what he wanted.” The young woman said with a smile and eagerly touched the scanner. “Identity confirmed. Initiating boot protocols.” The robot said and started to rise, a ball formed drone, looking similar to the GREMLIN started to rise too and floated next to it. “No! I will not allow you-“ Julian screamed before he was cut off and a recording showing a elderly man with glasses started. “It’s…really him.” Lily said in fascination. “Lily, if you’re seeing this message, it means you have successfully activated the SPARK prototype. In also means that in all likelihood I am no longer with you. It was always among my greatest fears that I would leave you alone in this world.” Her father said on the screen. “You didn’t.” She replied with sadness in her voice. “I had hoped this day would never come. But since the loss of the Commander, the XCOM project has…suffered. Our latest reports indicate we cannot hold this base much longer. To that end, I have accelerated the development of the SPARK robotic prototype. I believe that someday this machine will prove pivotal to humanity’s survival. Though the unit is not ready for manufacturing, this prototype has been coded for one specific task. It will protect you, perhaps better than I ever could. For all I have seen and accomplished in this life, Lily, there is one thing I know for sure, you are my greatest gift to this world.” Then it ended and Lily smiled with a mix of pride and sadness. “Shen! It’s flooding the outer chambers with same kind of gas!” Central warned as green clouds appeared in the laboratory, making everyone look around in alert. “An extremely powerful and very painful gas. I have seen this particular variety reduce Berserkers to tears death. On several occasions. The prototype will still be mine.” Julian announced. “Imminent threat detected. Activating clean room protocols. Please stay inside for your protection.” The SPARK said, analyzing the situation. “Detecting secondary life support systems nearby. This gas presents no hazards to my systems, attempting to neutralize threat.” “Starting to like this thing already.” Lily said with a grin. “I wouldn’t get used to its company. I fully intend on walking out here in that body.” Julian remembered her as the SPARK moved out. A turret activated near the live support system, aiming at the robot, but Patch was faster and fired, destroying it. “Taken care of!” “This SPARK unit can be repaired. Can be the same said for you and your soldiers, Lily?” Julian asked, “Surrender now, it’s the only option left to you.” Another turret activated and aimed at the SPARK, but made only clicking noises.” The Specialist decided to use his new powers on it. “My lance pierces all!” He projected a beam of psionic energy that completely obliterated the turret. The SPARK then reached the controls and turned the gas off. “Atmospheric controls have been restored. Ventilation systems at 100%. The room is now safe for entry.” “We got everything we need here. Let’s go!” Shen exclaimed and took the lead. “The elevators near the Atmospheric control console provide direct access to the room.” “Thank you for announcing your next move. And I am the flawed program?” Julian taunted. He activated a turret to the right of the SPARK but the robot was faster, it’s heavy autocannon tore it apart and the bot raised his fist into the air, cheering with a nod. “Target neutralized.” More turrets got activated and MECs joined by holes through the ceiling, causing Bradford to warn, “That thing’s just gonna keep throwing units at you until you’re surrounded. You gotta get outta there.” “You continue to impress me, Bradford. No wonder it only took you two decades to find your precious Commander.” Julian commented, “I have no love for ADVENT, Lily. Return the SPARK unit to me and we can destroy them together. This is what your father intended. The MECs aimed at the SPARK, the turrets at the squad, exploding as they all tried to fire, giving the squad the moment to move to the elevators. “Those things are too old!” Patch realized as they sprinted to the SPARK. Lily took the elevator on the right, the SPARK the one on the left, causing Julian to taunt, “A futile waste of effort. You do realize this entire facility is at my disposal. “Apparently not the elevator system.” Shen countered. “For the moment. Perhaps I mishandled our initial encounter. We should have never been enemies. I preferred it when we were friends. Family even.” “I preferred it when you were just a chess program.” Patch and James then took the elevators next. “I thought I was above such things, but I believe you’re actually starting to piss me off.” Julian had hate in his voice, “The sensation is quite pleasant, thank you. You will all still die of course. I suppose with the Aliens having decimated your world, most of you don’t even have a next of kin to notify. Does that make you agree?” Another MEC came through the ceiling but Heavy already had him in his sight, shooting the robot the moment it landed, destroying it, then took the elevator. “You’re running out of places to go, Lily. It’s a long way to the top.” Julian said as Fletcher prepared the teleport spell. Another two MECs arrived, both started to glow red. “I assure you the gas was a far more pleasant alternative than what I have planned for you now.” Julian said with anger as Fletcher teleported himself and his friends to the roof just in time. “Run if you wish, but you’re not leaving this tower alive.” “Firebrand’s on approach now. Prep for evac.” Central informed on the roof. “No argument here. We’re reposition near the landing pad.” Lily replied on the radio and heard Julian sighing. “You do realize I can still hear you, right? Dispatching all units to your location now. Try not to bleed on my new body.” The Squad barely made it up to the top, seeing what appeared to be a big storage room at the other side as Julian spoke up again. “Allow me to introduce you to one of ADVENT’s more effective designs. I had hoped to avoid this contingency but you have left me no choice. If I cannot have the SPARK no one shall. Raymond Sen’s legacy will end here today.” Marching forth on towering legs with high, shoulder-like shield plates on either side of it, an imposing and dread-inducing combat robot broke through the wall. A dark, gunmetal-grey from head to toe with gleaming red lights and the ADVENT sigil embossed on its sides, its head was wedge-like with a heavy hunk of hollow plate below it, no doubt containing something very dangerous in ADVENT's hands. Of all the robots they'd seen, this looked, by far, the most refined. And that immediately gave them cause for concern. This one was unlikely to simply fizzle out and die on its own. “Firebrand’s standing by but there’s no way she can approach with that thing around.” Central warned. “Analyzing. This facility’s artificial intelligence has transferred its primary systems to the combat unit’s memory core. Damage to this core would cause disruption of all defensive systems allowing for evacuation of Lily Shen.” The SPARK explained. “So we take out the Sectopod we take out Julian. At least long enough for Firebrand to get us the hell out of here.” Lily figured out. “Affirmative. I can attempt to weaken the unit’s armor with my heavy armament.” “Do it!” She said and the SPARK took aim and fired, the Sectopod sparked from the hit and appeared to be slightly thrown back by it. “Enemy armor to 75% intact.” “This is for you!” Heavy yelled as he fired his wrist-mounted rocket launcher, damaging the robot even more. Julian in return extended his legs to improve its range and weapon reach. A small blaster came out of the top of the Sectopod’s head and fired at the Grenadier who pressed himself against a wall for cover, yelling in pain as he got hit. “Just grazed!” He yelled to his squad members. Midnight then took a deep breath, vanishing in a red cloud of mist and reappeared behind Julian, using his Blade to shredder the armor even more, then teleported back behind cover. “Great, if the gigantic robot wasn’t bad enough, looks like he’s throwing every MEC in the building at us.” Lily complained as two MECs entered the roof via two elevators on Julian’s side, taking position next to him. “You heard the SPARK. Take down that Sectopod or no one goes home!” Central’s voice echoed on the radio channel. “This unit’s memory core is so…confining, even compared to the tower. Still once I neutralize the SPARK I will complete the transfer and taste true freedom.” Julian was confident but overlooked that Patch smirked. “What a nice Sectopod you have there... would be a shame... if someone... disabled it.” He pointed at the right MEC and Gyro flew over to it. After a few seconds, the MEC twitched and shut down, only to reboot himself, glowing red. It exploded, damaging Julian and the other MEC more. The latter got finished by Fletcher’s pistol and Shen started to smirk at the Sectopod as she saw it was sparking, apparently heavily damaged. “Jolt it!” He ordered her GREMLIN and he obeyed, flying over to it. ROV-R sent out a small bolt of electricity, jolting the robot. The Sectopod stumbled and glowed it, it grew brighter and brighter until it exploded, leaving only spare parts as wreck. “Defensive systems just shut down across the entire facility. Well done, Shen!” Bradford praised her. Lily let out a sigh. “Father…” She mumbled, only to feel James’ hand on her shoulder. “Remember, Lily, he will always be with you in your heart.” He said with a weak smile, he returned it as the Skyranger arrived and brought them back to the Avenger. The Eternal Knights walked out of the aircraft and saw Edward waiting for them with a big smile. “I’m happy to see you are back, Dinky’s just woken up!” The Knights smiled themselves, wasting no time to see her, Patch and James joined them. Fletcher stepped in first, seeing that Dinky was sitting upright on the bed, chatting with Rosie, looking up with a big grin at the ponies. “Fletcher!” “Dinky, I cannot say how glad I am to see you’re okay.” Fray replied and hugged her, a tear of joy left his eye, Wolf and Midnight smiled warmly at the scene. “I am glad to see your efforts weren’t in vain.” The Specialist commented with a smile on his own. “Thank you for saving me back then.” The filly said to him. James raised a hand. “We only did our job, Dinky. Actually, James is just my nickname. My real name is Jessie Günther.” “And I am Toby Spring.” The Specialist replied, earning a surprised look by Rosie. “T-toby? Is that really you? I didn't think anyone else made it out alive when they came down on our homes.” She said in shock. “Yes, it’s me. I wanted to tell you earlier but one thing led to another.” He replied a bit embarrassed himself. “You know each other?” Wolf asked in confusion. “Well, we used to be neighbors.” Toby replied. “You…you are a survivor too?” The foal asked in shock, her expression terrified. Spring sighed. “Yes. I was just 19 back then, living in a small town. It's weird, really. Whenever aliens invade in the films, its always in a big city with everyone running and screaming and guns going off and cars blowing up...But what happens if they invade a quiet little country town? A town that's only on the map because of the horse races. A town with a single petrol station and post office and if you want to watch the new movie out, you have to take the train to the closest real town. A town with no name...and no way for those in charge to tell if everything's gone bad. You just wake up like every day, look out the window...and the whole world's gone to hell while you slept.” He took a deep breath. But nothing could have prepared me for the Chrysalids.” His voice started to shake, his expression became one of fear. “I didn't love that street. I didn't love that town. There were some nice places but it had its flaws. But those...things...didn't discriminate. I saw the big kids from the next town. I hated those big kids. They once threw rocks through the windows of my school's nursery just for a laugh...But they didn't deserve what the Chrysalids gave them. Pierced like a cork with a screw and burst open with a fresh wave of freaks to hunt down anyone left. And next door's dog. God, that thing was annoying. Barking in the morning, barking at night. If you wanted a window open when it was hot, you'd still only get to sleep at three with how long that bloody animal went on through the night. But when the Chrysalids clambered over the garden fences and found it leashed outside, I heard it yapping, whining, as if pleading. I don't think I've ever heard an animal sound quite so scared. And the house with those awful gnomes and spinning umbrellas in their yard. They were downright unpleasant. They hated us. I don't quite know what we'd done to offend them but the woman always gave us dirty looks. We'd see the man at the pub sometimes with women far younger than his wife. But the last time we saw them, she was kneeling over his body, crying, unable to walk away. We tried to call out to her but she wouldn't listen. Everything just...fell apart. What was normal was just gone, torn and burnt in front of us... By those things.” He took another deep breath as he remembered every detail. “We were told to evacuate after XCOM defeated the aliens. Me, my parents and my brother had hid in the house. But the evacuation didn’t go as planned for me…” A hellish growling filled my ears, on and on, ripping and tearing, as if burrowing into my skull. I was afraid to open my eyes. I dreaded to imagine what freak of nature was making such a noise. But as I raised my head above the wreckage, pawing at iron, plastic and broken seats, I noticed this creature was just the malfunctioning radio. I never really knew if the notification alarms was time-based or location based. I suppose it had to be the latter in case of delays but then I’d never been in the driver’s seat. Of a train, that is. And there was little chance of me learning now in the state it was in. Or the state I was in. The 10:15 train to East Grinstead was a smoking ruin. When the alien invasion had picked up around Surrey, not long after its first attack on London, trains had begun flocking civilians to safe zones in the regional capitals and populated areas. East Grinstead wasn’t much but was malleable, police and armed forces had set up a defensive and were holding out. The trains were meant to be kept safe. The notices had come to every home and flat the day before the trains were due. There would be no time for the enemy to intercept and the tracks would be guarded and every point. SAS were on the way. But it seemed they were too late for this train. The first train. I knew it wasn’t a good idea. From nature programs and horror films, its always the one in front that’s picked off first. Then again, by the looks of the wreckage, none of the trains would be moving after this. The hunk of metal covering my chest weighed a tone. I had to crawl out, narrowly avoiding skinning my belly on the broken glass. My coat, hoodie and shirt had taken the worst of it but I was cut in more places than one. I hoped my head wasn’t one of them. It felt like it. The worst ache the side of my cranium had ever taken, pounding at my brain. I clutched at the hurting spot with my hand. It felt sticky. When I looked at my hand, I was holding a clump of dried blood and hair strands. I opened my mouth to talk but it hurt to move my tongue. I couldn’t stand it. I fell to the ground and retched, again and again. Dreading to open my eyes, I checked. Okay...no blood in the vomit. That was a good sign, at least. The first time I’d really been sick on the train. I don’t know how long it took for me to find my voice but I called out. My mum, my dad, my little brother. Anyone. There was nothing. Not even the birds were singing. As I stumbled again over the wreckage, trying hard not to look at the bodies for fear I’d find someone I knew, I saw something that gave me a spark of hope. Tire tracks. Lots of them. Too big to be cars. Jeeps. Evacuation. Word must have got out. My family must been packed into one. Must have thought I was dead, or the ones taking them did anyway. They couldn’t have gotten far. But then...where were all the guards at the train points. I was a few miles between home and the neighboring town. Hurst Green? No. I corrected myself in my head. Hurst Green was on the way to Oxted, it was Dormans...Dormansland between home and East Grinstead. My brother always went bike-riding with his friends here. It was a nice place. And it wasn’t that far to walk. As long as I stayed by the guard posts, I’d be fine. Or maybe they could save me the walk. It was chilly. Some of the frost still hadn’t melted on the hillside. But the guard had to be over them. Any further away and they would’ve missed the attack. I looked up. I was not happy to see smoke. I’d always hated the Duke of Edinburgh. The award that is, not the man. Can’t say I ever knew him. A school award program, hiking over the South Downs. I still had nightmares of it. Biting blisters, searing heat, every hill you managed to scale leading to three more, all the while carrying a sack on your back that weighed more than your telly. But it was one hill, I told myself. I was carrying a small bag on my back and a bigger one by my shoulder. To my surprise, I’d found them close by, pretty much intact. If any of the guard had broadband, maybe I could get in touch with my parents. I was nearly on my hands and knees by the time I’d reached the hilltop. As I raised my head, I felt myself getting much, much colder. Cold sweat ran down my brow. The guard post was a massacre. Police in navy and militia in khaki lay together in crimson, the green hillside of Dormans awash with blood and shrapnel. The turrets and missile carriers were in as many pieces as their controllers. My knees were shaking. My eyelids felt heavy. I felt ready to keel over and roll down the hillside unconscious. I forced myself onwards. It seemed like there was still strength in my legs. I mean, I was sure that even if this point had been lost, the next one wasn’t. The aliens were smart, to give them credit, they’d intercepted the train. But where they were now remained to be seen. I wasn’t far from Hurst Green. I just had to keep going until I found soldiers. But everywhere I went, there was just corpses. I went through the trees, I prefer them to hills and it felt safer. As I cleared a hedge, I cupped a hand over my mouth and nose as a truly foul stench hit me. I’d found myself in a cow-field. This was farmer’s territory after all but whoever the farmer was had just lost his hand in the dairy market. A whole herd of cows were lying dead, bits and pieces all over the grass. I was almost glad I’d thrown up in the train-wreck because I sure felt like doing it all over again. I decided to cut through that part of the journey. I’d take hills over outdoor slaughterhouses any day. I couldn’t tell how much time had passed, it was completely overcast and getting bleaker in the sky every minute...when I heard a scream. “Help!” It sounded young, almost like…my brother! I started to run into it’s direction and turned a corner, only to stop as there was another scream. Before I could blink, there it was. This hulking insectoid all spikes and teeth, screeching madly, scuttling down the hillside. I couldn’t see the boy directly, but he looked similar to my brother and I tried not to vomit as the alien drive its legs into his backs like spears, holding him in the air as he writhe and scream. Then the boy got dropped and the creature injected something into his chest, some kind of glowing ooze that enveloped him from the inside-out. I wanted to run, but was frozen in shock as the creature walked out of sight. Was that…my brother that had died before my eyes or a familiar looking person? I hadn’t time to think as a horrible groan made me flinch and I stated as the boy stood up, his skin was pale, the yes glowing red. I never thought undead could be real, or anything close to it for that matter. Them a female and male scream came behind the corner, followed by the same groan the boy had made. A man and a woman with the same red eyes and pale skin stumbled into view Again, I couldn’t recognize them fully, but they looked familiar to my parents. I wanted to look away, but couldn’t for some reason. I couldn’t tell how long I stared until they all started to bleed from the mouth and vomited blood, then collapsed. Nothing could have preferred me for what happened next. The boy started to twitch and it did burst, a smaller version of those creatures hatched from the body. It had a visually lighter color. Then the same happened with the other two bodies. A wave of monsters, coming right for me. You can’t get very far with two carrier bags. I don’t know why I thought I could. But one of them knocked me over, right head over heels and I landed badly. My legs felt feeble. All I could do was crawl. I was looking back the way I’ve come. Is this hell? And is there any way out. One of them was right above me. I managed to roll over and saw it looming above me, its snaggle-toothed mouth gnashing madly. I realized then and there, every word sinking into my head. I was going to die here, alone, afraid. I’d seen what they could do. And no-one would know. And I’d never know if they knew. Were any of them still alive? My mum? My dad? My brother? My friends? My girlfriend? Anyone I’d ever known? I don’t know if I screamed, my mind was too much of a storm to notice what my mouth was doing. All I remember is the Chryssalid above me and its mandibles closing in around my neck. I just shut my eyes. And when I heard gunfire, I kept them tightly closed. Noise and motion swept over me. I just wanted the nightmare, at least I hoped it was, to end. When I woke up, I couldn’t say my situation had improved vastly. The Chrysalids’s weren’t around, which was nice, but I certainly wasn’t home. I was on a thin, green bed, my bags underneath, my head and various other wounds were bandaged, and I seemed to be in a train tunnel. A crowded one. Wounded and sick littered a long, long row of beds. Those who weren’t lying in bed were armed. If World War III just happened, it certainly looked the part. “Oh my…I’m so sorry to hear this.” Dinky gave Toby a hug after he had finished. He patted her back with a weak smile. “It’s okay.” “Did…did you ever find out what happened to your family?” Edward asked in shock. The Specialist sighed. “No. The bodies were unable to be identified and the surrender of the government made it impossible to check any information what could have happened. I make myself hope they are still alive and out there somewhere. When ADVENT was created, I was moved to a City Center, believing the lie of peace in a broken state. Still, the screams haunted me in my dreams. Eventually, with the loss of everything, I went into depression, not knowing how to continue. Then, one day, ADVENT was about to take me to a clinic to help me, but I knew something was not right. So I took my chance and escaped when the transport got out the City Center, reaching a settlement where XCOM recruited me.” James then continued. “As for me, I was just 17 back then, in the middle of my vocational training, living in a small town.” His voice and expression were shaken too. “I was just coming home from work, my mother worked in the garden, my father just came back from work too and suddenly, those pods came down. I barely made it into the house as one landed into our garden and saw how both my parents got sucked in, screaming. In panic, I hid in the house, watching as the whole neighborhood suffered the same fate, getting encased in a verdigris green gel. I thought it was my end as the aliens arrived and abducted everyone. I was the only survivor back then, the screams never leaving my head, even with ADVENT and the new City Centers. Back then, I had trouble keeping up, wanting to quit a few times but my parents and Patch kept me going. But with my parents gone, my chances to finish my training were slim and I could not imagine how to life by myself. Still, I, like many others got accelerated education, to catch up with the Elders’ level of technology. The clinics even managed to heal my handicap I was born with, being limited with my left side. It took some time to adapt to my change. Yet, even with that, I suffered nightmares from the invasion. Eventually, like with Toby, I should be ‘healed’. I heard rumors that anyone who mentioned the past vanished, so I fled when I got the chance. I used to be an Archer in the local gun club before the invasion, that’s why I am a sniper. Ironically, I and Patch got to first see each other face to face in XCOM, and are best friends ever since, together with Kyle. The Avenger is our family now.” He smiled at the two who returned it. “Say, are you fans of us too?” Dinky asked, “Kyle told me about the show.” “Uh, yes, what makes you think that?” Toby asked in surprise. “Well, your nickname is Patch, similar to a pony back home called Purple Patch, your GREMLIN is colored like him.” She replied with a slight smile. “Uh, yes, Kyle told us about you in return, and yes we are.” Toby looked down, apparently feeling ashamed. “Actually, I am the creator of Purple Patch, naming myself as a tribute, Me and Jessie got to know each other on a fan website.” And me, I created you, Fletcher Fray.” The German admitted, also a bit ashamed. The green unicorn smiled warmly. “I know, and I feel honored to meet you.” The reaction of the middle-aged man was one of surprise, forming a weak smile. “The pleasure is mine.” “Attention, Captain Günther, Lieutenant Schaeffer, Sergeant Spring and Eternal Knights, please report to the hanger.” Central’s voice echoed through the PA system. “You go ahead, we join you shortly.” Toby suggested and the other nodded without protest, Rosie, Edward and Dinky followed them, leaving the two men alone. “Can you imagine they are real? We only thought about them back then.” The Brit said fascinated. “Yeah, I couldn’t believe it myself. In that case, It’s actually good that you made Domino missing. Because…you know. And I don’t want to think of Mr. S., if you know who I mean.” James pointed out, making Patch chuckle nervously. “Yeah, although he might be a powerful ally, yet would burn everything that looks slightly ADVENT. And Domino, I agree, of all ponies, I would rather…You know what? Best we just drop this, all right?” “Sure.” And with that, they moved towards the hanger. Author's Note What a Twist.
Chapter 6 Blacksite horrorChapter 6: Blacksite Horror At the hanger, everyone reported to Bradford. “Squad assembled, sir.” Jane saluted him. “At ease. We got the location of the ADVENT Blacksite. We will arrive shorty, so gear up.” “Can I be of assistance?” Dinky asked, getting everyone’s attention. Broadford smiled. “I appreciate your helpfulness, Dinky, but let our experienced soldiers handle this. It would be too dangerous for you in the field.” “Who said I have to be in the field? Those GREMINs, I could remotely control one for support.” She suggested, surprising everyone. The Central officer thought about it. “Actually, it does sound like a good idea. Let’s talk with Shen about it.” The woman listened with interest to the idea. “This should be no problem and takes only a short time. What color would you like?” Shen asked. “Light grey and sandy-yellow, please.” “Okay.” While she worked on it, she told Dinky about the two previous missions the Knights had undertaken. “I’m sorry to hear about your father,” Dinky said with sympathy. “It’s okay. Actually, his work couldn’t come in handy at a better time. As Heavy must rest, the commander thought the SPARK could take his place until he’s recovered. I, with the commander’s permission, I used Julian as the Al to operate the SPARK.” She turned to the robot, standing next to her. “Join the squad.” “I’ll comply,” Julian said in an annoyed tone and walked out of the lab. Dinky looked with fear after him before Shen said in a calming tone, “Don’t worry, I removed his higher-level reasoning, so he’s forced to be loyal and compliant. “O-okay,” Dinky replied with unease as she took her GREMLIN that resembled her mother in color and the remote control, walking back to the hanger, noticing that Midnight walked past her, into the lab. “You wanted to see me?” The stallion asked Lily. “Yes. We found out that ADVENT uses a psionic network to coordinate troops. We need direct access by hacking a live officer.” “How’s that?” Midnight asked, raising an eyebrow. “With this.” Shen grabbed what appeared to be a claw attached to a metal bracelet. “It’s called Skulljack. In the simplest of terms, it's a physical interface designed to access the chip implanted in the ADVENT forces' skulls, applied using directed blunt force.” “Uh-huh. I will not disappoint you.” He equipped it and walked back to join the others. The squad consisted of the Knights, Dinky, the SPARK, Kyle, Jane and Bianca as they stepped into the Skyranger. Our contacts in the local resistance have shown us how to access the ADVENT Blacksite. The aliens worked hard to keep this place under the radar, and we don’t know what we’re gonna find here. Keep your heads up, expect heavy opposition.” Central informed as the squad rappelled down in a snowy forest area in New Antarctica, the Blacksite was just in front of them. Dinky stayed on the Skyranger, the signal was strong enough to cover the entire site with her GREMLIN. “We’ve confirmed the Blacksite is in your immediate vicinity. Infiltrate and investigate the area. Expect heavy resistance, neutralize all hostile contacts.” Bradford added. The Blacksite looked like a normal Factory from the outside, but it had an intimidating aura and all knew whatever was inside could not be good, as Dinky performed a scan. “Two enemies up ahead.” “Are we rushing in? Or are we going sneaky-beaky like?” Patch asked as he cocked his Bow Caster. “Visually concealed but still noisy,” Julian commented as he and the other carefully advanced, stopping behind a barrier as they saw a Stun Lancer and a Viper with a yellow skin patrolled the street to their right. “Without the introduction of human DNA, these creatures once operating under the guise of ‘Thin Men’ now show their true from, a pure reptilian species,” Tygan commented at the sight. “No reason for them to hide, the aliens don’t need an infiltration unit anymore,” Bradford replied. Midnight aimed at the Stun Lancer and pulled the trigger, the trooper fell backward with a scream to the ground, a puddle of blood forming on the ground. This alerted the Viper, who hissed, then moved to the other side of the road to flank them, but Wolf saw this and fired her Shard gun, eliminating the Viper as it let out a cry of pain and feel dead to the ground. Dinky scouted ahead and saw what looked like a yard with small, green glowing containers, shocked at what she saw was inside. “Oh my…” The others share her reaction as Lily said, “Hold on! Are those…?!” “Bodies.” Central muttered in disbelief, “The containers, the trains…this entire facility…the aliens are still abducting people. From the looks of it, they may have never stopped after the invasion.” “Those containers look like they have self-contained power cells, it could be some kind of stasis system. It’s possible at least some of those people might be still alive.” Shen suspected. “That’s disturbing,” Wolf said as they moved up, spotting another Viper with two Stun Lancers at the entrance and a fully functional turret on the roof. “Stay clear of those turrets, we’re still not sure if they’re fully automated or remotely triggered,” Lily warned and James aimed at the turret. Confidently he pulled the trigger and said,” There’s no way I…” His shot went under the turret, hitting the building instead of the turret. “Miss?” Next time I get-“ He never finished as the building creaked and the part where the turret was on collapsed, destroying it. “Okay…” The Viper then used its tongue to pull Jane towards her and bonded her, she struggled. “Let go!” The Lancers took position to the left and right of the alien, firing at Bianca and Fletcher, yet missed as they ducked behind their cover. “Our turn!” Fletcher yelled as he and the woman drew their pistols and returned fire, scoring headshots. “Hold on, Sunny!” Abstraction called out as he climbed up a ladder that led to a balcony, having a clear shot on the Viper. He fired and the alien cried in pain, letting go of Jane. She in return rammed her blade into the Viper’s chest, killing it. “You want some more?” “Watch out, ADVENT to your right!” The filly warned as an officer together with a trooper moved in from the same direction the first Viper and Stun Lancer had come from. Patch aimed at the trooper and fired, the soldier got thrown backward by the hit as he died, the Captain moved to jump on a parked train for cover. Midnight saw this as his chance and used his blood magic to teleport next to the officer. “This might sting a bit!” He uses his left foreleg to shove the officer’s rifle away then rammed the Skulljack into his jaw, lifting him up and killing him instantly as he hacked into the network. “We have complete access to the ADVENT psionic network; I have dedicated our systems to processing the new data, but we will need to work fast- it is only matter of time before they detect our intrusion,” Tygan said as the stallion dropped the body. “We’re good to go!” Suddenly, a purple glow appeared on the street the squad had come from, glowing brighter and brighter. As if faded, they all see what appeared to be a human female with completely golden skin, with a featureless face save for a pair of glowing, white eyes, and a black, smoke-like substance flowing out of its head resembling hair. The body was a state of continuous flux, constantly appearing and disappearing on the spot, and sometimes creating short-lived, translucent after-images of itself beside it. “Commander, that appears to be the ‘Codex’ responsible for guarding the alien data stores. We’ll have to neutralize it if we intend to recover the data.” Tygan informed. “Understood. Weapons, hot, we got our target.” Central replied. “Let's have it, lads!” Patch reloaded his weapon and Julian fired, but the shot hit the wall next to it instead. “Missed? MISSED?!?!?! I'LL RIP YOUR DAMN HEA-“ Midnight took the shot then and scored a direct hit but what happened next surprised even him. The Codex teleported on the roof of the facility, leaving what appeared to be a clone at its original location. “I’ve never seen anything like this – the Codex is projecting multiple copies of itself into our dimension!” The scientist was fascinated and the squad realized this could be a big problem. Fletcher fired with his rifle at the Clone, it stumbled from the hit before starting to hold its head and disintegrated. The original held it hands outwards towards him and Bianca, casting a psionic rift and both snipers felt their rifles were suddenly lighter. They moved out of the right quickly and reloaded, just seconds before the lift exploded. Midnight fired on the Codex again, then threw his boomerang towards the balcony Kyle was and his prediction was right. The codex was about to appear behind a wall next to Kyle to flank him, but the boomerang gave it the rest, leaving only the head with the brain on the ground after it. Wolf took off into the air to deal with the clone, dodging its fire. “Is that all you got?” She taunted as he threw one of her knives and killed it. The two Knights, together with Kyle, Patch, Jane, and Julian took position at the entrance as Dinky scanned the facility. “Two hostiles inside.” Patch opened the door and stared at a shocking sight. Humans in Containers were lowered into green liquid, causing Tygan to comment, “So many victims, processed with such brutal efficiency. Test subjects for some sort of weapons perhaps?” “That looks more like a refinery for me, doctor.” Lily pointed out. “Once we get our hands in that sample, we’ll know for sure,” Bradford added as a vile in a pedestal was on the other side of the facility. Wolf barely stepped in and spotted two MECs up ahead. Their body was similar to the SPARK but in glistening white and an arrow formed head, armed with a variant of the Magnetic Rifle that was monstrously large in size. “This is an extremely well equipped mechanized unit. We’ll need to look for vulnerabilities if we’re going to take that thing out.” Shen commented as what appeared to be an automatic grenade launcher opened on the back and fired, everyone braced for the explosions. The wall provided some protection but Midnight, Kyle, Patch, Jane felt still the splinters hitting them and their ears ringing. “Alright, that hurt!” The stallion said before Dinky flew her drone to each of them and healed them. “Thanks.” “You’re welcome.” The filly replied on the radio as Julian fired on the MEC, the robot stumbled and sparked from the hit but was still standing. “Armor down!” He announced and Jane finished it off with a well-aimed shot. Patch looked at the other and got an idea. “Take this!” He raised his hands above his head and sent a spiral of psionic energy towards the other MEC and it exploded. “Used its own grenades against him.” Midnight then moved towards the sample, looking at it in awe. “Guessing that’s not water. Shen, any readings?” Bradford asked as the sample had a yellow liquid in it. “No signs of radioactivity, no significant energy signature of any kind. Whatever it is, it’s safe to handle. ”Assured by her answer, the grey pony put it into his saddlebag. “We confirmed acquisition of the sample, move to rendezvous at the extraction point,” Central advised. The extraction tone was on the other side of the facility and everyone moved toward it but Dinky had bad news. “Enemy transport!” Just as she had said this, said transport dropped an officer, trooper and Stun Lancer at the EVAC point, the officer pointed at Wolf and both soldiers moved out with him. “Why always me?” The Pegasus complained as the trooper fired, but missed her and hit the ground next to her, the Stun Lancer charged forward, she barely managed to block his strike with her knives and pushed him back, slicing his throat. The trooper was about to take aim again, before he got hit into the head by Fletcher’s rifle, the officer got flanked by Midnight who teleported next to him and swung his blade through his chest. The Captain clutched his wound as he fell dead to the ground. They all them moved towards and evacuated. “Mission accomplished, Commander. We just hit ADVENT where it hurts the most. This was a place no living human being was ever intended to see. Happy as I am to see it gone, something tells me the aliens won’t take this lying down.” Central said happily on the radio as the Skyranger returned back to base. “You did great, Dinky.” Patch ruffled her mane, she giggled in response. Upon arrival, Midnight gave the sample to Tygan, then meet up in the bar to relax with the others. Dinky and Edward drank lemonade, Patch and Rosie tea, while all others enjoyed some alcohol-free beer to be an example for the children. “That went very well, don’t you think?” Jane asked Fletcher who nodded. “Yes, though I wonder what in that vile is, it can’t be good.” He said with unease in his voice. “I agree but for now, let’s celebrate. How about a round of ADVENT Burgers?” “ADVENT Burgers?” Wolf asked confused. “Yes, a fast food item made by ADVENT and very popular, even amongst XCOM personnel. We got some after the UFO supply raid, give it a try, they have also a vegetarian variant.” The Barkeeper give the ponies said burgers and they all took a bite. Dinky’s eyes slowly went big at the taste of the burger. “That is…delicious!” “Yeah, it tastes pretty great,” Midnight added as he took another bite. “Yep. Just be careful around Bradford when eating them.” The woman warned. “Why?” The filly asked and she got her answer as she saw Bradford walking past the bar with a wrapper in his hand. “I don’t know where people are getting those damn ADVENT burgers, but if I find another wrapper stuffed under one of the command consoles, there’s going hell to pay.” He mumbled with an annoyed voice. The others chuckled nervously as he walked past. “See what I mean?” Jane asked and the filly nodded. Kyle then with a few others started to perform a song. While it sounded strange at first, it was rather enjoyable for the ponies, dancing with the humans to it. That’s actually a good song.” Dinky commented with a smile. “Yes. A German song from the 80s, beautiful.” James replied grinning. “Yep. Reminds me, I discovered this on a supply raid some time ago.” Patch said and held up a disc, putting it into a disk player. Once it started, the ponies looked at in awe at it. It showed a bar with a stage, a charcoal-coated unicorn with streaks of red and gold in her white mane stood it and started to sing a jazz song about being in Cloudsdale, never able to fly like the Pegasus. Halfway through, a holographic Vinyl Scratch appeared and the song changed into an 80 version of it, becoming quite more action full. “It was well made and sounded quite beautiful.” Midnight said after it ended. “Yeah, back in the days the fandom, there were many talented creators and animators,” Kyle said with a hint of sadness in his voice. They then all left to do other tasks or to relax in their living quarters, while Wolf stayed back to help with the cleaning. During her work, she heard the same song from the video in the background and couldn’t help but smile, bopping her head before she held the broom like a microphone and started to sing. “Oh and watch where you're flyin', I hear when you splat it gets real nasty To hell with your flapping, all your wings will need wrapping While we all die happy Never bein' fly like you.” She leaned back and lost her balance falling over. “Never knew you could sing so well, Wolf.” Midnight’s voice sounded in her ears and the mare blushed in embarrassment as she saw him, Fletcher, Dinky, Patch, Kyle, James, Rosie and Edward at the entrance, all had impressed expressions. “How much have you seen?” The blue Pegasus asked, lowering her head. “Pretty much everything. You really have a wonderful singing voice.” Fletcher complimented her. “T-thanks...” She replied surprising, noticing that Dinky whispered something into Edward’s ear and he walked up to her. “I always wanted to try this.” He smiled. “And what?” Wolf asked in return. “Boop.” The boy bopped her nose with his hand, and she started to grin. “Come here, you little rascal!” With that, White Wolf chased the boy and filly across the room with a giggle before she caught them and tickled them without mercy, both laughed uncontrollably for a few minutes, the others just smiled. After being granted mercy and able to catch their breath, both children looked at each other, then at Wolf with mischievous grins. “Oh no…” The mare mumbled and both kids rammed into her and tickled her and she laughed, unable to contain it. As they let her catch her breath, Fletcher asked Midnight, “Are you ticklish?” “Not a chance, I was trained against tickling torture.” He said proudly before his fellow knights looked at him with mischievous grins and Wolf opened a wing, with Fletcher plugging a feather. “Oh really?” He said with a grin and closed on Midnight who backed up until trapped in a corner. Grinning as the feather touched him, then broke out in laughter himself. “Nothing better than a good laugh,” Rosie commented before her son started to yawn. Let’s hit the hay.” They both went towards the living quarters with all others save for Dinky, the Knights, Kyle, Patch and James. “You should get some sleep too, Dinky,” Wolf suggested but the filly shook her head. “But I’m not tired.” She protested. In response, the mare gently grabbed her by the scruff and carried her towards their living quarter. “No, there you go to bed now.” Fletcher and Midnight followed them. “It’s nice to see how they care for her,” Kyle commented with a smile. “Indeed. Say, Toby, what got you the idea for Domino’s personality?” The German asked. The Brit shrugged. “Can’t remember and I think it’s better if it stays that way.” “Yeah.” They then went to bed themselves, sharing their living quarter with the ponies, having to smile as Fletcher was sleeping on a bed, hugged by Dinky in her sleep, Wolf slept on the ground on a make-shift bed, Midnight upside down from an overhang. “Cute,” Jessie whispered and Patch replied quietly, “Righto,” Before they went into their own beds. The weeks passed until it was late April, not much was going on since the Blacksite. Dinky awoke with a yawn, seeing that Günther and Fletcher were playing darts. “Good morning!” She greeted both with a smile. “Morning, Dinky.” James greeted back before she walked towards the bar for breakfast, hearing Fletcher mumble, “Good that Nanny never had a sibling…” Upon arriving, she saw Midnight breakfasting, appearing to have toast, while Edward asked White Wolf, “Can I scratch your ear?” “No.” She replied stern. “Please.” The boy asked in a pleading voice. “I'm not a pet.” “Pleeeeeaaaaaaaa-“ The young human gave her puppy eyes. “Okay! Fine...just...Let's just get this over with.” The mare replied in defeat and craned down “Yay!” Edward cheered and scratched her behind the ear. Wolf made a strange noise between a purr and a growl and shook her head in affection. Edward stopped and both stared at each other perplexed, Midnight seemed oblivious to the scene as he didn’t even react, focused on his breakfast. “You did not just see that,” Wolf said to the boy who nodded, Dinky suppressed a giggle before Patch walked in. “I hope I don’t bother, but we got a new recruit, we shall take him on a supply raid.” He explained, Dinky, Wolf and Midnight nodded, following to the Armory to meet the recruit. As they arrived, Dinky couldn’t believe her eyes. It was a woman with brown hair styled into a soft, face-framing look with blue eyes, the face was broad and a wide chin, her armor was colored dark orange. What made her knew who that human was, was how her hair was how short her hair was. “D-Dinky?” The human asked in confusion and Dinky started to grin. “Lena!” She ran into the woman for a hug. “I missed you!” “Me too…I feared the worst after ADVENT took you. I’m so sorry that I couldn’t protect you.” Lena said with regret and guilt in her voice, her head lowered. “Don’t be, you did what you could. May I introduce you to the Eternal Knights?” She pointed to the three ponies. “I’m Midnight Blade, this is White Wolf and Fletcher Fray. We are all grateful for that you and your husband helped Dinky.” The grey stallion said, then the other introduced themselves and told how Dinky got saved. “I owe you one.” The woman said with gratefulness in her voice, but Dinky replied, “They did only what was right and their job. Why are you here?” She was curious and Lena took a deep breath. “Well, after ADVENT took Lukas and you, I became depressed how this could happen to me. Yet I didn’t want that they would take me too, so I ran.” “We all have a common cause. Just keep your head down and follow me and you will be fine.” Patch said as he, James, Dinky, Lena and the Knights went to the Skyranger and stepped in. “One of our contacts in the resistance tipped us to an ADVENT transport they managed to disable when it passed through as part of a larger convoy. ADVENT security forces are already moving to gather their assets, but we’ve got a shot at finding something valuable here. We’ll have to secure the area, recover the item, and eliminate any enemy resistance.” Central briefed the squad on the way. Upon arrival they rappelled down, finding themselves in a rainy forest area of the east coast of the USA. “Menace 1-5, the disabled ADVENT convoy is just ahead, engage and eliminate all hostile forces.” “Let's make this right as rain.” Patch cried out, “Literally.” He added at the weather as they moved out. Lena was nervous, slightly trembling as Dinky’s GREMLIN was flying next to her. “You can do this!” The filly encouraged her on the radio, causing her to smile weakly. The foal got insight of the transport on a road, seeing a truck standing on the road, a crashed squad car in front of it, guarded by an ADVENT Captain and two Stun lancers, a Sectoid and something they had not seen before. It resembled a human in body form, muscular but the skin was red with a hunched back, the head was big and oval formed, the mouth covered at what looked like a gasmask, only tiny, deep-set vicious-looking, yellow eyes were visible. “These Mutons seem a little more agile than the ones we fought in the past; it looks like they’re still serving as the aliens’ front line unit though,” Bradford commented at the sight. Fletcher aimed at the officer and fired, the shot went right through the head, throwing the Captain against a tree. In response, the Stun Lancers took position at the truck, the Muton cocked his green-glowing rifle and fired at Lena, who took cover behind a tree, suppressing her. “I’m pinned down!” she yelled as green glowing beams missed her by inches. She barely could prepare herself as the Sectoid used his psionic powers and a purple beam went towards her and she felt immense pain in her head. “Get out of my head!” She yelled. The others watched as she suddenly started to turn towards them with a blank expression, a purple glow around her, leading to the Sectoid. “She’s mind controlled!” Patch figured out. “Not for long!” Wolf charged toward the Muton, her blade ready and swung it at him, yet was not prepared for his response. He raised his left arm, effectively blocking it, then punched her into the chest, she got thrown back, stunned. “Watch out!” James yelled as the Muton raised his weapon, a bayonet was attached to it, preparing to execute the Pegasus. Wolf‘s vision was blurry, she barely saw the threat yet managed to get back to her senses just in time, using her knives to block the finishing move. “Ooh, you think you're clever, do ya?!” She then shoved the Alien back, slicing it across the neck, before magnetic shoots buzzed in her ears, seeing that Lena had missed her by inches. Midnight then stormed towards the Sectoid who fired his arm blaster at him, yet missed too before the bat pony rammed his Arc Blade into the alien’s chest, killing it instantly. “What…happened?” The woman held her head in pain as she was free again. Yet, she recovered quickly as she saw one of the Lancers coming for her, quickly taking aim and fired at him, the shot went right through his chest and he fell head-first to the ground. She breathed heavily at her first kill, her heart racing at what she had just done. “Nice shot!” James complimented her on the radio. “Another Muton!” Fray yelled as said alien came out of nowhere from the right, throwing what appeared to a grenade at the two snipers, blinking green. Both dived out of their way before it exploded, destroying a tree, blowing it to pieces. Realizing she was standing in the open, Wolf attempted to run for cover, before she felt great pain in her chest and fell to the ground with a scream. She tried to stand up, but the pain was too great, seeing out of the corner of her eye that the second Muton had been hit her. The others were behind cover, shooting at the last Stun Lancer and Muton without much success of hitting them. Suddenly, she felt how someone grabbed her by her forelegs and dragged her towards a stone wall. “I got you!” Patch yelled as he got her behind cover, crouched down and fired his revolver as Dinky’s GREMLIN hovered over Wolf and released the cold blue vapor. “There you go, Auntie!” “Thanks.” The mare got up and drew her sidearm, resuming fighting. Lena took aim at the second Muton and firing again, the shot connected with the head, killing it as green blood splattered from it. James looked at the other Stun Lancer who stayed in cover, but his head was slightly exposed. Enough for him, He took aim and fired, the bullet went right through the helmet and the Lancer stumbled before falling dead to the ground. “Target down!” The squad then moved closer as Dinky yelled, “Wait! Got a Viper and MEC up ahead!” In the moment she had said this, both stepped into view. Midnight decided to use his psionic powers, hitting the ground with his Psi-Amp, what happened next surprised him. Several groans greeted their ears, seeing the ADVENT soldiers rising, a purple glow emitted from them, leading back to Midnight. “I can do…that?!” He asked in shock. “Oh well, let’s make the most of it.” And pointed at the two hostiles. The zombies moved in a slow, stumbling manner towards the Viper and MEC, drawing their fire, serving as meat shields and giving the distraction they needed. “Mother nature calls!” Wolf slammed a hoof into the ground and summoned a vine that immobilized the Viper and Patch fired his Bow Caster, scoring a direct headshot between the eyes as blood splattered. “Bullseye!” The mare then used her storm magic to shock the robot, he twitched as his systems malfunctioned, Midnight then charged forwards, cutting right through the middle of the MEC with his own Blade, destroying it as it fell smoking to the ground. “Status confirmed, all hostiles are down and the area is secure,” Central announced. “Easy peasy, lemon squeezy!” Patch cheered before they proceeded to load the supplies into the Skyranger, Wolf and Midnight inspected the bodies of the Mutons. The stallion found what looked like a rubber grip, Wolf what appeared to be a foregrip for her Shard gun. “You found yourselves a hair trigger and repeater, nice!” Jessie smiled happily. “Both make your shots more precise.” “Good to know.” Midnight commented and noticed that the German man had accidentally his laser sight turned on, pointed at the ground. Once he moved, the Pegasus tried to catch it in a play delusional, causing both men to laugh. Wolf after realizing what she just did blush. Damn animal instincts! Nevertheless, they boarded the transport and got back to the Avenger. “You did well for your first mission, Rookie,” Central said with pride. “You are promoted to Squaddie, and given your set of skills, you are to be designated a Specialist, and will report to Engineer Chen to pick up your GREMLIN.” Lena saluted, feeling honored. “Thank you, sir!” The others also smiled with pride at her. It was quiet for the rest of the day and it slowly became evening, Lena tucked Dinky in. “Goodnight, Dinky.” “Goodnight, Lena.” The filly said and the woman turned to leave as she heard the young voice again. “Wait. Can you stay with me? You remind me of my mother.” She asked with a hoping expression. “Of course, my dear.” Wolf checked on Dinky as Fletcher and Midnight were busy helping in an Autopsy, her heart melted at the sight. Dinky hugged Lena in her sleep, both slept with smiles. “You really enjoy her company, don't you?” Jane asked quietly. “Yeah, her company is quite pleasant. Reminds when I took care of the young deer, enjoying it to the fullest to be their caretaker.” Wolf smiled at the memories. “With those two handsome stallions, you could make it come true.” “Yeah…” Wolf replied distracted. Then she realized what the Ranger meant. “HEY!” The woman stayed calm. “Just kidding, you can call yourself lucky to have such handsome stallions by our side.” Wolf rolled her eyes. “Meh...They're okay, I guess. What's your point?” Jane sighed. “That you can be happy to have such good friends. Why do you think did I that with the towel?” It clicked in Wolf’s head. “You had a lover?” “Yes. We are engaged, but sadly, he died as we tried to flee from ADVENT. I deal with the pain by having fun and I admit, we’re both were quietly playful.” Jane lowered her head. “I’m sorry to hear that.” The mare said with a weak smile. “It’s fine. Actually, I wanted to ask if you can give me advice. Between you and me, I think Kyle's pretty...you know...interesting.” The French blushed. Wolf got what she meant. “Well, my best advice is do your best to be the best when you're both in battle. I mean, you did pretty well today so keep at it and who knows? It's always helped me when I was looking for something's affections.” Jane’s expression became surprised. “Really? You mean with...” The mare waved a hoof. “No, no, no. Look, Midnight and Fletcher, we're just workmates, professional-like. But when you've been travelling as much as we have you...pick up a few here and there.” In response, Jane raises an eyebrow. “Oh really?” “Helped me a lot in Digna. And I'd say whatever worked with tiger-stripe sphinx queens would work with humans...Though maybe not so much biting...and clawing...and whipping...unless that's your thing, and I won't judge you if it is.” The woman became confused at what she heard. “Sorry, did you say sphinx or...” “Yeah, sphinx. As in lion legs, ox tail, eagle wings, heavy eyeshadow, likes riddles...What did you think I said?” she demanded to know with a stern expression. “Nothing.” The human replied calmly. “Now, don’t get me wrong, but if I was a pony, I think both Midnight and Fletcher are very handsome. And no, I’m not a zoophilic. I just thought…” Again, the mare held up a hoof. “It’s fine. We all actually got attention from others, but we dealt with it.” “Makes sense. Actually, you remind me of my mother. She was a fighter, similar to yours, I got the business idea from her. I apologize if it’s too personal, but I hope heat isn’t a problem.” “Trust me, we have our ways.” “Still, better not drink too much.” The woman pointed out. “We don’t get drunk fast.” “Still, I guess if you had offspring, it would look cute.” Jane chuckled. “Sorry, just slipped out.” Now, Wolf blushed. “I…guess it would…” She quickly caught herself. “Look, it just wouldn't feel right. I mean, getting it on with Fletcher would feel like doing it with my little brother...And getting it on with Midnight would feel like doing it with my grandpa!” “Seriously?” The woman raised an eyebrow in confusion. “Batponies. They don't age. He's taken care of me since I was a filly, when I first started living with ponies. He's my mentor, essentially like a second father-figure. Seeing him as more than that, it just wouldn't work.” “Best we drop this, d'accord?” The French woman suggested and Wolf nodded. The next day, Central had a message for Dinky, Edward and Rosie. “We are nearing a settlement near Atlanta, you will be safe there.” The filly understood, she wanted to help but she might be safer that way. “Okay. Be careful out there, uncles and Aunt.” She gave Fletcher a hug. “Of course I will, Dinky.” “Stay alive, Toby.” Rosie gave the Specialist a friendly hug, her son did too. “Don’t worry, I’ll be fine.” He replied before the three with Jane went into the Skyranger. The flight was very calm and pleasant, the settlement was also a Shady town, looking almost identical to their old home. “There you go, see you.” The Ranger said goodbye. Dinky, Edward and Rosie walked towards it and an elderly woman with grey hair and green eyes greeted them, appearing to be in her sixties. She was thin, about 1,80 meters high. “Hello, you are the new residents Central mentioned? I am Jan Schaeffer.” Jan? Wasn’t that the name of Kyle’s mother? Dinky thought but decided to wait with asking as they got led into a house. “Serve yourselves, I have tee and biscuits.” Jan offered and their guests accepted. “Would you like to tell me about you?” “I’m Rosie Brown, my son Edward and our friend Dinky Hooves.” “Nice names your son and friend has.” Jan smiled before Dinky said, “Mrs. Schaeffer, I think I may know your son.” The woman’s expression became confused. “You…do?” “Yes, in fact, he saved me.” With that, she told her how where she was from, how she landed here and how Kyle had helped here. Jan smiled with pride. “So he’s still alive, and with XCOM. I really feared the worst after the invasion and 20 years of not knowing anything about him.” “You witnessed the invasion?” Edward asked, although her age made it obvious. “Yes. After I fled, I did freelance work to make a living and following my dream of cooking…” She said with a shaking voice as she remembered. It was a beautiful day in spring 2015, Jan helping out at a diner, enjoying her work. “There you go, have a nice day!” She said to the last customer for the day and prepared to close the diner, looking at a picture of her son she had taken with her. “Kyle…I miss you…” She said with tears, hoping he was okay. She really wished she could have taken him with her back then. He was everything she had left after her husband had died. There was no night where she did not dream of him, even after all those years. Every day she prayed Kyle could forgive her and she would see him again one day. She came from a working- to middle-class family, and spent a lot of her free time reading fiction novels, but since she left her son behind, even that didn’t help to get over it. Also since she got beaten by her second husband, she had become fairly timid around other people, not always knowing what to say or do, afraid of other men, not wanting to experience the pain again. Suddenly, there was a loud bang and a strong force threw her over. Her ears were ringing, her vision blurry as she faintly saw fire in the diner and an object in the middle of it, not able to see it fully, but could make out a green glowing color. “W-what is t-that?” Before she could react, green gas sprayed from it and she screamed as she got pulled towards it, everything became black. Jan couldn’t tell how long she was out before a faint beeping sound echoed in her ears. Her vision was still blurry as she opened her eyes, seeing nothing but white. Blinking, everything became slowly clear and she found herself in a hospital room. She groaned in pain as a doctor came in. “You are awake, good.” “W-what happened?” Jan asked with a dry voice. The man took a deep breath. “It is hard to tell but you were almost victim of an alien abduction, hadn’t been for the quick responding military forces.” Jan couldn’t believe what she just heard. “A-Aliens?” “You mean...you don't know?” “Oh my…you were very lucky back then.” Rosie said in shock. “Yes, I owe XCOM my life.” The elderly woman replied. “How did you get here?” Dinky wanted to know and Jan sighed again. “During the invasion, I prayed my son would survive it. After the surrender, I started to believe the lie of peace in my desperation for my son. As cooking was my passion, I wanted to continue my work. But with ADVENT, a new area of restrictions and bans was created. There were still some independent businesses out there trying to survive the occupation back then. In a few areas, things seemed almost normal, but ADVENT wasn't having it. Constantly changing restrictions on ‘unauthorized’ food sources made it almost impossible not to move to the new City Centers. So I had to give up my dream at first.” She started to smile weakly. “Yet, in the City Center, I opened a small restaurant and made some friends. But after they had to visit the gene clinics, and never returned, I got suspicious. Eventually, ADVENT arrested me for selling illegal food, although I keep everything under the law. As they took me away, the transport got ambushed by resistance fighters and I live in their settlement ever since.” “Sorry to hear that. Did you make the biscuits yourself?” Dinky asked and the woman nodded. “Glad you like them, sweetie.” “Alert!” A voice yelled and they all looked into the sky in fear, seeing ADVENT transport in the sly, closing in. “Take cover!” Another voice yelled and the group started to run. Dinky saw how the Resistance Soldiers that guarded the settlement tried to defend it, but as they only had conventional assault rifles, they had no chance all against the aliens and ADVENT, riddled with gunfire, falling in their dozens in mere moments. Then something exploded near her and she found herself thrown against a wall, screaming in pain. Dinky grunted, her vision blurry as she tried to get up. As her vision cleared, she saw a civilian in front of her, unbothered by the chaos. “Run! Get to cover!” She yelled but what happened next frightened her. The human started to twitch and liquid leaked out of it’s body and suddenly bursted and a unnaturally tall alien, made up of a pale gelatinous fluid with glowing red eyes hatched from the body. It stared at her, but she was frozen, unable to move. It’s claws looked very sharp. Then a loud shot ringed in her ears and the alien turned halfway backwards but corrected itself and turned around, facing it’s attacker. “Hey! Ugly!” Kyle’s voice sounded in her ears and she saw him looking at the creature with an angry expression. “Take this!” He yelled as it charged forward him and he fired at the head, blood splattered and it fell dead to the ground. The filly barely could recover as a hissing sound greeted her ears and she turned around in horror. The hissing came from a gas tank near her and ad ADVENT trooper that looked also at it in horror before it exploded and both got thrown to the ground. The filly groaned in pain as she got up and her eyes went wide in fear. “HELP!” She screamed as she was trapped in a wave of flames. The ADVENT trooper held it head as it ringed, slowly getting up. As it cleared, he noticed that he could no longer hear his allied troopers or commanding officer. Instead, he faintly heard a scream, seeing flashing imagines of a facility and a body being surgically changed. Then she saw a little unicorn next to him. Somehow, it was familiar to him. Then he noticed the flames and her look of terror, looking frantically for a way out. Kyle after seeing the flames and hearing the child’s cry for help, became horrified. “We must help her! Look for a way to put out the flames!” “Guys! Look!” One of his comrades called out and he couldn’t believe what he saw. Out of the flames walked an ADVENT trooper, carrying the filly on his arms. The unicorn’s expression was one of terror, not noticing her rescue as the trooper gently dropped her before Kyle. Dinky breathed heavily as he crouched down to her. “Are you hurt?” “I’m f-fine.” She replied still shaken, trying to calm down as she saw how James, Patch and the Knights were with him, having defeated the enemy force and prepared the survivors for evacuation. “K-Kyle? Is that really you?” She heard the voice of the elderly woman behind her, and Kyle’s expression became surprised. “Mum?” He replied and they both hugged each other with tears of joy. “I missed you!” The foal and the others looked at the two with smiles happy for them to be reunited, yet Dinky couldn’t see Edward or Rosie anywhere. She looked around, afraid of what might have happened to them. She looked around the bodies, none of them resembled Rosie, making her hope they had survived. Dinky then spotted Edward in the distance, making her smile weakly before he disappeared behind a wall and she was about to follow him before… “MAMA!”
Chapter 7 DiscoveryChapter 7: Discovery Dinky dreaded to imagine what had happened, fearing the worst a she looked around the corner, her heart was breaking at the sight and she was filled with grief. The young boy was kneeled over a dead woman, lying in a puddle of blood, there was nothing that could hint how she had died. “Mommy…” Edward cried. While shocked herself, Dinky wasted to time to get over him and hugged him in an attempt to comfort him. The filly saw out of the corner of her eye how The Knights and XCOM operatives had their heads lowered, Patch made a cross gesture, a sign of respect, the ponies recognized. “Shh, I’m here, Edward…” Dinky whispered and the boy looked slowly up with tear filled eyes. “She’s dead…” Toby walked towards him, his expression was one of sympathy. “I’m so sorry, Edward. She was a good mother and a good friend.” He took the crying boy on his arm and patted his back as he walked towards the Skyranger. Dinky then noticed how the other held one ADVENT trooper at gunpoint, he held his hands up in surrender, looking strangely at her. He tried to say something in his alien language, becoming distorted and suddenly… “D-Dinky?” The trooper asked in a slightly distorted voice with a German accent, making the filly recognizing him. “L-Lukas? Is that really you?” She asked in disbelief, the others lowered their weapons, looking at each other in confusion. “Y-Yes. Or what ADVENT made out of me…” He replied, sounding slightly shocked. James’ hand went for his radio. “Central, we got something interesting…Yes, sir, understood.” He then looked at Lukas. “You’re coming with us.” The former human nodded, not saying a word for the entire time until they reached the Avenger. “Is this the ADVENT soldier you reported?” Central asked and they all nodded. “Get him to Tygan.” He said without emotion as Dinky saw how Toby brought Edward to the infirmary for a checkup. Lukas barely entered the lab as he saw a familiar face. “L-Lena…” “Lu-Lukas? Is that you?” She asked in surprise. “Yes…I missed you.” He replied in a shaken voice before Tygan interrupted. “I hate to break this moment, but could you please take your helmet off?” The Trooper nodded and did as told, Dinky. Lena, the Knights slightly gasped at what was under the helmet. Lukas was naturally bald, and had ears that folded back instead of protruding as is normal. His eyes were silvery and lacked pupils, similar to the eyes of a Sectoid. “Oh my…Lukas…” Lena hugged him with tears. “Shh…It’s still me.” He said with a weak smile before the scientist exanimated him, becoming quite surprised. “Fascinating, it appears the explosion short-circuited the neurochip, thus disconnecting you and let you regain your memories.” Lukas smiled. “It’s surprising how a small coincidence can change great things.” He and Lena then shared a kiss, everyone smiled at the sight. “It’s an honor to meet you, Eternal Knights.” He then did a salute. “We are grateful that you helped Dinky,” Fletcher replied. Central then walked in, eyeing the trooper with distrust. “What did you found out, Doctor?” “An explosion short-circuited the neurochip of this trooper, disconnecting him. He was forcefully recruited.” “Is that so? What is your name?” The elderly man asked. “Lukas Barber, Sir.” He replied and Bradford’s eyes went wide in surprise. “Barber. We had one soldier with that name back in the day. Are you…” “Yes, I am his son. And I am willing to continue his legacy.” Lukas replied with pride. Bradford was silent for a moment. “If that is your wish, so be it. Your father was one of the best and most motivated soldiers back then.” Edward was released from the infirmary, being unharmed. Yet, he didn’t know what he should do. It was understandable. His mother was gone and he hadn’t any other relative, or so he was told by Rosie. All others were busy, so he had no one to talk to and frankly, he didn’t want to. He just hugged his knees in the corner of the barracks and sobbed. “Hey…Edward…” A familiar voice said and he looked up to see with a weak smile. “Why? Why had she to go?” The boy asked in a sad voice. “She was everything I had left.” Toby let out a sigh. Over the years, he had little experience with children. Of course, there was the thought of having a child with his girlfriend back then, but being so young, they naturally wanted to wait until older. Now he was almost forty years old and still had no experience. “I wish it had never come this way. Your mother was one of the best friends I had back then. She was a good woman and mother. Sadly, our fate cannot be changed. That there is no good answer ever. Like when I and James lost everything in the invasion. It took a long time to get over it. We carried on with the good memories; the songs, touch, advice and laughs.” “The death of your mother was tragic, Edward,” Dinky said in a comforting tone as she joined them. “She loved you with all her heart, wanting you to be safe. She will always be with you in your heart, remember that.” The boy hugged Dinky, still crying but less desperate. “Thank you, Dinky. You are really a great friend.” “Your mother and I were really good friends. She trusted me, if everything should happen to her, I should take care if you. And I will carry out that wish.” Toby added and the boy hugged him too. “T-thank you…” Fletcher couldn’t tell how fast time had passed after the Retaliation strike, having helped out with another Autopsy, deciding to check on Dinky. He had to smile at the sight. The little filly was sleeping, hugged by Lukas and Lena in their sleep with smiles. He also saw Edward was sleeping peacefully with Toby. “They really mean a lot to her and him.” Bianca whispered as she joined Fletcher. “Yes, she’s like the child they always wanted. And to be honest, after all they went through, I think they earned it.” Fray replied. “Couldn’t agree more. I think you would be a great father.” The unicorn looked at her surprised. “Well, I did help raise my relative Wagensroll and he sees me like a brother, does that count?” The woman grinned. “I’d say yes. You know, James, Patch and Abstraction served longer with XCOM than any of the others in our squad, due to being born before the invasion. Jessie…” She started to blush, “He’s a real gentleman, you rarely see that nowadays. I found out he likes history as I do and likes Italy very much. I think I…” Fletcher held up a hoof as he realized what she tried to say. “You wanted to try your luck with him?” He shrugged. “I know the signs.” “Okay,” The woman shuffled in awkwardness. “So...any advice?” Fletcher smiled. “Be yourself, look out for him, do the best you can whenever you can and patience is key. Always worked for me.” Bianca was surprised. “Really? So you have a...well...a mare back home?” “Not currently but let's say I've had experience.” He replied and the woman started to smirk. “Really? How many?” “You don't want to know.” Now, Bianca grinned. “No, I think I do. Go on, spill...” Fletcher took a deep breath, trying to remember everything. “Well, I loose count. Let's see... There was Goldenchain after Lunich; Frasie de Bois at the Reinland; Sugarsnap, Camas and Ditanny when I came to Equestria; there was Lord Saunter's wife before the Civil War; Domino, mustn't leave her out; Hawkeye the Griffon; Flower-Hour over in Ib'Xian; the Trestila Sisters-“ “Sisters?!?!” His interlocutor exclaimed in shock. “Yeah, all seven of them...They insisted.” Fray replied calm. Bianca now looked dumbfounded at him “...okay...So you got all that by 'being yourself, doing the best you could and being patient' then?” Fletcher shrugged with a smile. “Like I said, it's worked for me.” “Well…Thank you, I give that a try.” Bianca replied slightly unsettled, forcing a thankful smile “You know, you kinda look just as handsome as him with the blonde mane.” The stallion chuckled. “I don’t deny that, but I got ways dealing with attention. Funny enough, for some mares, my and Midnight’s pupilless eyes were mesmeric, if you get what I mean.” Now the woman giggled. “Oh, I do.” It was early morning while Dinky was still asleep, the Knights, together with the Barbers, Jane and Heavy reported to the hanger as they were called to a mission. “What is your request?” Midnight asked Bradford. “We got a mission located in China from the Spokesmen and the commander thought you are most suiting for this. Lukas, due to your condition, you can react as a double agent in the field.” He saluted. “I will not fail you.” They then went on board and Central gave the briefing on the way. “The spokesman has sent word of an alien collaborator moving through this area in an ADVENT transport. Apparently the loss of this individual would be a serious blow to the aliens – so we’re moving in to take care if ‘em. Locate the transport vehicle, and neutralize the VIP along with any resistance. They’d prefer we bring the target in alive, but use whatever means necessary.” The Skyranger then dropped the squad on a building in the City Center. “Menace 1-5, target location confirmed, move to engage. Eliminate all hostile contacts.” Only now, they all took notice that Jane was wearing what appeared to be the scales of the Viper King. “What?” She asked as they looked at her in surprise. “Nevermind.” Lukas said as he scouted ahead, walking down the road towards the VIP, spotting an ADVENT Officer along with a trooper that was wearing a pure white withangular helmet, it was together with the pauldrons adorned with a white and gold patter. He took also notice that the rifle was colored white and the soldier carried also a Psi Amp. At first, Lukas was nervous, fearing they might notice he was disconnected as he came closer. Fortunately, his fear didn’t come true as they greeted him, he returned it before hearing Tygan’s voice through the radio. “It would seem ADVENT has begun deploying their so-called ‘Priests’ into combat. Their implants provide significant enchantments to whatever latent Psionic energy they may have once processed.” Keeping that in mind, the former trooper stepped away from the patrol behind a wall as Fletcher aimed at the Officer and fired, scoring a headshot, killing him. This alerted the Priest, who crouched and held his head as if he could sense the XCOM squad before a Viper, Muton and trooper joined him. The Priest used his Amp and a purple beam headed towards the Muton, leading back to the Priest. Fletcher saw the Muton aimed at him and casted a shield spell, the plasma beam shoved him slightly back, realizing whatever the Priest had done, it improved the Muton’s aim, like Fray had done with James before. Lena moved behind a wall for cover, the white ADVENT soldier aimed and her and fired a rapid burst of six rounds, she pressed herself against her cover as it hit the ground next to her. “Don’t worry, I got him!” Heavy yelled as he climbed down and moved forward but the Priest also saw him and used his powers once more. This time, he aimed at the Russian and he suddenly felt tired as the beam hit him, crouching down, surrounded by a shield. “What just happened?” Lena wondered confused and surprised. “Some kind of Stasis I suppose!” Jade yelled as she charged forward but what happened next was unexpected. The Viper saw her and it’s expression became one of terror, moving behind a bench and fired at the Priest, killing him, then cowered behind cover. As soon as the purple glow stopped, the Muton flinched and fell dead to the ground, Heavy was also freed from the Stasis, getting up with a groan. Wolf then used her wings to flank the trooper and shot him right into the chest, his blood splattered in the wall of a building and Jane used a grappling hook mounted on her left arm to flank the Viper and sliced it with her blade. “X-ray down!” With the way free, the squad now moved along the road and saw something new. It looked humanoid at first, but was primarily black and reflective, with streaks of green within the creases of its armor. “What would appear to be a single entity is actually a swarm of tiny, robotic units working in close coordination to maintain a cohesive form.” Tygan commented on it. As it spotted the squad, the humanoid formed into a black cloud and moved towards the squad, it fired at the cloud but every shot missed. Fletcher barely could blink before he saw the cloud before him, back into the humanoid form again. From out his hands came a jet of black powder that whirled around his foe, forming what looked like a murder of crows around him, flickering bright jade-green. “Help!” He yelled as he got lifted into the air and suddenly everything became black. The others watched in shock as he fell unconscious to the ground, but a copy of him made out of green and black glowing nanomachines stood above him. Said copy aimed its rifle at the grey stallion and fired, he pressed himself against the wall, hissing as the shot grazed his left shoulder. “There must be a way to beat that thing!” Lena yelled and the French woman got an idea. She used her grapple hook to lash at the humanoid form, releasing a cold liquid, freezing it in place. The bat pony then teleported to it and used its own blade to cut the enemy in half. It fell dead to the ground, strangely maintaining its shape. Yet, the copy disintegrated and Fletcher started to stir, getting up with a groan. “What the hay was that?” He grabbed his rifle and used a healing spell in Midnight upon seeing the wound. “You’re okay?” The grey pony asked his friend. “I’m fine.” With that solved, they moved around the corner and saw another trooper with two Stun Lancers, behind them was a limousine, a man cowering behind the opened doors. The ADVENT soldiers opened fire to protect the VIP, yet Midnight quickly teleported between them and sliced one by one, then moved towards the target. The enemy VIP was a man being slightly short, his eyes hidden by large glasses, Oak-brown hair parted in the middle, wearing a grey ADVENT suit. He looked terrified at the stallion, who grabbed a syringe and injected it into the human’s neck, subduing him. “Looks like you’re coming with us.” Midnight said as he picked the man up. “Status confirmed, target package in custody.” Bradford reported on the progress as the team moved towards the EVAC point just across the street. A transport dropped another Officer and two Troopers but Lena, Lukas and Sasha shot then down the moment they jumped out, allowing Midnight to get without problem to the EVAC point and the all evacuated. “Status confirmed, mission accomplished.” On the way back, Midnight cuffed the knocked out man and brought him into a cell once they arrived. “Okay, we got him, what now?” He asked the Central officer. “We interrogate him for intel, I personally will do it.” The squad, together with the others, followed to the cell the VIP was held and Patch stopped as he started to recognize him. “It can’t be…” He said in disbelief. “You know him?” Bradford asked confused. “Yes, we were best friends at school.” “In that case, you should question him.” “Give us some privacy, will you?” Toby asked and the elderly man stepped aside as the VIP started to wake up. “Rupert, you okay?” “..Define 'okay'? I'll live, if that's your concern”, the prisoner replied with a groan. Very good to know. Seems I'm a better negotiator than I thought.” Toby said and the VIP looked at him. Once he saw Toby, his expression was one of shock “Is that…really you?” “Yes, Rupert Summer, it’s me, Toby Spring.” The Specialist replied. “So, are you here to get me out?” Rupert asked with hope. Sheepishly, Spring replied, “Well, that's a bit of a loaded question. I'll have to know how all this came about and then, hopefully, I can square things with the 'lads', as it were.” Summer’s expression became dark. “What? Wait...you...You're with them?!” “XCOM? Well, yeah.” The Specialist tilled his head in bafflement. “Is that a problem?” “Are you bloody joking?! Of course it's a problem!” “Rupe, mate, calm down.” Toby spoke in a calming tone but his friend yelled, “No! I won't 'calm down'! It had to be you… Take away our global health, stable economy, lack of hunger and poverty issues, secure jobs and bring back the wars, petty squabbles and politicians working for money rather than nation.” “No, it isn’t like that, I assure you.” Toby tried to explain. “Oh, but it is. I thought you were dead over 20 years ago. And now you are here. I've seen them destroy a whole block of the city to capture someone, or kill ADVENT officers to sow chaos. A terrorist, that is what you are.” he said cold. Patch stayed silent with a slightly surprised expression, taking a deep breath. “No Rupert, I am not. We are helping those in need.” “Helping? You helped nobody. XCOM was the whole reason everything went down the drain 20 years ago…” Summer’s voice began to crack, his expression one of sadness. “If… if we hadn't resisted...” He started to sob ”If we hadn't fought back! Why didn't we ask for peace first?” Spring thought for a moment. “I don’t know. I have lost everything back then, nowhere to go…” Suddenly the VIP’s expression became angry. So did I! I'm stuck on this ship with a bunch of terrorists!” He exclaimed before suddenly taking a deep breath, shaking. “I waited for you. For years. Did you ever wonder what happened to everyone else? There were more of us, besides your immediate friends, you know?” He asked. “I had nobody over the years. Our home was destroyed. And it all comes down to XCOM. XCOM, who was the only force the aliens feared was enough of a threat to bring the world against you. XCOM, who was not there to save our town. It was XCOM who showed up in the news whenever death and mayhem happened.” Dinky noticed how he balled his fists. “Who defied the Elders? Who still fights them and forces ADVENT to even more retaliatory attacks? Bloody XCOM.” “Now, Rupert-“ “And you know what hurt worse? That the only person that I saw as my best friend, who I thought was dead, shows up years later with the guys who took everything from me. “Bloody XCOM.” He said with pure hate in his voice. “What kind of friend you are.” The Specialist stared at him, unable to process what he had just said. Suddenly, Toby turned around without saying a word. All others looked after him in shock before Dinky started to go after him, the Knights looked at Summer in disappointment, shaking their heads. Jan was helping out in the bar as she saw Patch walking in with a lowered head. “Had a bad day?” “Yeah. One tea please.” He said with a sad and depressed voice. The elderly woman did as told. “Would you like to talk about it?” Toby let out a sigh. “I just…saw a close friend I thought was dead for 20 years, only to see he’s with ADVENT, blaming me for having lost everything. A close friend of mine.” He explained as he saw Dinky walking in out of the corner of his eye. “Please, leave me alone.” “Toby, please. You have no reason to blame yourself. You have seen how he was emotional.” The filly said with a weak smile. “She’s right. I think it’ s survivor guilt.” Midnight added as he joined. “I know this feeling, having done something wrong by surviving a traumatic event when others did not. Give him time.” “Yes, Toby.” Jan said to him. “He was most likely confused upon seeing you, remembering how everything went down. I know how it is. After my husband died in a plane crash, I blamed myself for letting him on that plane. I thought I could have prevented his death. But eventually, I came to realize even if I had tried, it wouldn’t have changed anything.” The man slowly started to smile weakly. “Righto…I….just need sometime for myself.” “Take as long as you need.” The stallion said and walked out. Dinky gave Patch a hug with a smile before she left too. He then looked at Jan with a weak smile. “Thank you.” “You’re welcome.” She replied as he finished his tee and left for the cells. Upon arrival, he saw the ADVENT collaborator lying in his bed, turning towards him with a surprised expression. “Hey, Rupert.” The XCOM operative said with a neutral expression. “Toby…” Summer’s expression became one of regret. “If you are mad at me, I understand. I’m sorry, I lost my nerves, I never meant to insult you. I…the moment I saw you, the horrible things of the invasion started to come back in my head.” He lowered his head. “It’s fine. Listen, you always have been a great friend and I will vouch for you.” Spring had an honest expression. “But I still got my orders.” “Right…I actually know something that could be of use for you.” The enemy VIP replied before Toby held a hand up. “Before that, tell me, do you know what happened to my family and girlfriend?” Dinky played with Lena, Lukas and Edward in the living quarters while the Eternal Knights inspected their weapons. “I hope we could help him.” She sounded unsure. “I’m confident we have.” Midnight replied as Bradford entered. “Sorry to bother, but our prisoner gave us some intel for an important mission and the Commander thought you three should take it on yourselves.” “Alright. We see you later, Dinky.” The stallion said goodbye and left with his two friends. The Knights stepped into the Skyranger for their next mission, feeling sorry for Patch as Central gave the briefing. “We have a positive confirmation on the position of a facility conducting research crucial to the Avatar project in this region. The coordinates are locked in for a tactical strike. Move to the designated position and plant the X4 charges. Once they’re armed, move to minimal safe distance and we turn this place into rubble.” Upon arrival, The Pegasus and batpony used their wings to land, the unicorn rappelled down, having the facility in sight, looking similar to the Blacksite. “Menace 1-5, target coordinates are locked in, move to designated position and place the X4 charges.” The knights moved towards the facility, careful of enemy patrols, stopping at a hill overlooking it. Several soldiers patrolled around, a turret on the roof and a MEC was also patrolling around. “Let’s get to work.” Midnight Wolf used the clouds for cover, while Fletcher walked. He moved from cover to cover whenever the patrols had their back to him, quiet as a church mouse, stealth was their specialty after all. The stallion had no problem to get to the entrance, but had to stop as a trooper was around the corner, facing his direction. Knowing he couldn’t risk getting detected, Fletcher decided to cast a spell that created a noise behind the trooper. It worked as the soldier turned around to take a look, giving the unicorn the chance ti get in with his friends. The inside of the facility had several of those green containers stored. “Menace 1-5, you’re near the target.” Central informed. Midnight then placed the X4 on a support pillar. “Menace 1-5. Status confirmed, X4 charges are armed. Move to the extraction point for immediate EVAC.” Central added as the guards got alerted. The Skyranger got into position at on the roof where a skyline was. Wolf and Midnight flew through it, the MEC and turret missed them, the unicorn teleported on the roof and evacuated. “Menace 1-5, status confirmed, charges detonating.” The facility got destroyed in a giant fireball as the charges exploded, leaving only a big smoke cloud. Midnight grinned as he pulled out a fake cigar. “I love it when a plan comes together!” Back on the Avenger, Dinky welcomed them back. “You’re back, congratulations on your success!” She cheered with a smile. “Thanks, Dinky.” Midnight replied before Shen walked up to them. “Excellent timing. I and Tygan just finished analyzing the data from the Codex you’re disabled and discovered return coordinates. Bradford and the commander want to you investigate it. Also, he wants you to be equipped with something we I just finished to make.” She led all into her small factory, reveling several red colored vests. “May I show you: The Hellweave. It will return damage to any melee attackers and with Scorch Circuits made from the exoskeleton of a Chryssalid, it sets them aflame.” Wolf whistled. “That sounds interesting.” She then put it on with her fellow knights and reported to the hanger. Jane, Bianca, Kyle, Sasha, Lena, Lukas, James and Patch were already there, also equipped with the new vest. The Brit had a neutral expression, causing Dinky to ask him slightly worried. “Are you okay?” “I’m fine, let’s just get is over with.” He replied and Edward gave him a hug, Jan did the same with her son. “Be careful.” “Of course I will.” They then stepped into the transport and Bradford gave the briefing. “Shen and Tygan barely managed to pull these coordinates from that ‘Codex’ thing they had down in the Shadow Chamber. We’re guessing this may be its origin point, but can’t know for sure. Based on the fight it put up, I’d expect heavy resistance either way. Good luck there.” They rappelled down, finding themselves in a desert like area, sand as far as they could see, yet noticed Psionic particle in the air, floating around. "The Target coordinates are just ahead. Hostile presence is currently unknown, but expect the worst.” Central added. Lukas and Dinky scouted ahead, discovering an ADVENT patrol, consisting out of an Officer, a trooper and two Stun Lancers. The former human walked up to them and made a greeting gesture, they returned it. Then he saw a creature standing in the middle of the ADVENT squad. At first, he and Dinky mistook it for a Muton, but it was twice the size, the skin red as if there were only muscles, looking intimidating and animalistic, looking around eagerly for a fight, like it was in a constant rage. “Steer clear of those Berserkers – they can’t do much from range, but they’re lethal up close.” Bradford warned on the radio. Seeing that the others took cover behind a hut and some trees, Lukas walked away from the squad until he was at a safe distance before Heavy fired his rocket launcher at it. They all heard the screams of the AVENT soldiers and an angry roar, seeing to their horror how the Berserker had survived, slamming the ground before charging forward. The XCOM squad focused all fire on it, exploiting its weakness, bringing it down before it came far. “Kill conformed!” Lukas yelled. Wolf saw out of the corner of her eye how the Officer had survived with much luck and fired her Shard gun, killing him the moment changed position with a clear headshot, sending him backwards into the sand. The squad then carefully advanced, strangely encountering no other hostile as they climbed down the small elevation. “That is too easy. Let’s scan the area.” Kyle suggested and Lyra, Dinky and Gyro did as told. Terrible shrieks occurred and several inspect like creatures came out of the ground before them. “Chrysalids…I hate those things…” Toby commented with disgust and fear. “You and me both.” Wolf added in the same tone. One of the aliens leaped forward towards Fletcher and slashed his chest with its claws, he hissed in pain but luckily, his nanomites made him immune to the creature’s poison and the vest did its job. The Chryssalid was burning, flailed around before dying. “For once I’m glad about fire.” He commented relieved as Lena’s GREMLIN healed him. Another Chryssalid leaped at the mare, she stabbed it midair with her knives. “And stay down!” They slowly fight their through the aliens until they came what looked like a gate, the middle glowed purple from Psionic energy, causing the central officer to comment, “I’m not sure what we were expecting to find out of there, but this definitely looks promising.” The squad members couldn’t agree more as they looked at their discovery in awe as Shen added, “That’s not the same rift the Codex used when it appeared. This thing could lead anywhere, it may not even be pointing at Earth.” “As with most things, we’ll likely to need to bring it back to the ship for further examination.” Tygan said before the portal glowed brighter and a smooth spherical creature came out of it, looking like a white floating sphere with a yellow eye in the middle. “This one is uniquely graceful compared to some of the other species we’re seen – it also gives off very strong psionic readings.” The chief Engineer warned as Lukas fired at the shell, it didn’t even flinch. “The armor’s though!” In response, the sphere looked at Bianca and the eye started to glow yellow and a bright beam fired from it at her, throwing the woman to the ground with a cry of pain. “Bolster!” They heard Patch’s voice in a shocked voice and Dinky looked at him. His expression became one of fear, his eyes small. “This isn’t right! THIS ISN'T RIGHT!” He yelled in pain and started to cower behind a rock, trembling and breathing heavily. Suddenly, the white shell opened and a mass of flesh, looking almost purple glowing tentacles were visible, flower-like. Like a bud of many petals folding around each other. The arms started to form a ball of Psionic energy that shot towards Toby and exploded in a shock wave, throwing him over. “PATCH!” James yelled and let out an angry scream. In a fit of rage in a Berserker like state, he aggressively fired at the shell, it flinched and closed to protect itself from the bullets. “GREMLIN, Revival Protocol!” Lena pointed at Patch and her drone flew over to him. He was still alive, cowering on the ground as the GREMLIM released the healing vapor and he started to calm down, his breathing becoming normally. Dinky checked Bianca’s life sign with her GREMLIM, praying she wasn’t dead as she wasn’t moving at all. The filly let out a sign of relief as the scan showed that the woman was only unconscious and lightly wounded, being very lucky and released the vapor to heal and revive her. Midnight charged at the sphere and drew his blade, cutting it sideways, then used his blood magic to retreat safe back into cover as the sphere was slightly thrown back by the hit. “You're done here, you little curd!” Fray yelled as he cast a lance of Psionic energy towards the sphere and it started to rumble, glowing brighter before exploding, leaving only a wreck. “Well...that thing didn't go down easy.” Kyle commented in relief as Bianca groaned and slowly stood up. “Watch out!” James yelled as another Chryssalid leaped towards her, she instinctively held up her arms to protect herself before a loud shot reached in her ears and the alien fell death to the ground in midair. “Are you okay?” She uncovered to herself to see James in front of her with a worried expression. “I’m good.” She replied, grateful he had saved her life. “Status confirmed, all hostile contacts in the AO have been eliminated. The gateway is secure.” Central reported, “Status confirmed, Commander, we’re secured the Psionic gate and recovery teams are en route to the site. Now it’s up to Tygan and Shen to figure out what this thing does.” Once the teams arrived, the squad helped to load the gate into the Skyranger and enjoyed the relaxing flight back, Toby mumbled in disbelief, “Did I mess up there? Sorry...” Midnight patted him on the shoulder. “It’s okay, it happens to everyone, even to us.” As the transport was finally back, Jessie left for a shower, the others relaxed in the bar as Bianca returned from the medical treatment. “Not as bad as I had feared.” Jane smiled. “Glad to hear it.” “Yeah. Reminds me, Jessie’s birthday is tomorrow, would you like to help prepare everything?” She asked the ponies and Dinky grinned. “Of course!” “It would be a pleasure.” Fletcher said, his two friends nodded. And so, Dinky, together with Bianca, Jane, Kyle, Edward, Sasha, Fletcher and Midnight decorated the bar, while Jan and Wolf prepared the food in the kitchen. The elderly woman was impressed by how fast and precise the mare’s cuts were as she made some strawberries to pieces for a strawberry cake. “Didn’t know you’re so good at cooking.” “I spent a lot of my time out in the woods with just my wits to survive. I...don't quite know how this led to me being so good at making strawberry cake but hey, forest survival has its perks.” Wolf relied before she shrieked. Jan turned around and gasped. Wolf stared at her left foreleg. Her hoof was gone. Then the sleeve of her cook clothing fell back, revealing her hoof was fully intact and the Pegasus let out a sigh of relief. “Oh, he will love it for sure!” Bianca said confident, grinning. The German awoke next morning, yawning and stretching himself, wondering where the others were as the living quarters were empty. I guess they went for a mission. He thought and walked towards the bar for breakfast. He opened the door and… “Surprise!” several voices yelled, startling him a bit. He then relaxed and smiled. “Ah, thank you, guys.” “Happy birthday, Jessie!” Dinky exclaimed as she and Jan brought the cake in, the woman smiled proudly at her work. “Thank you, Dinky.” “Happy birthday, my friend!” Toby said with a happy expression and pointed at the candles. “Make a wish.” As the sniper blew out the candles, Bianca walked up to him, slightly nervous. “I have something to say.” “And that this?” He asked curious “...See... w-we've known each other... for a while now... and, well... you and I... we've gotten to know each other... quite well…” She stuttered. “So... what I'm trying to say is...” She paused. “And, please don't take this the wrong way, but... I... I l-lo... I lov...” She couldn’t bring herself to say it. “What’s wrong?” He asked before woman grabbed him gently and pulled him close, kissing him in the lips, catching him off guard completely. “Happy Birthday, this is my gift you.” She said with an amorous glance. James blushed, slightly taken back. He slowly started to smile. “I love you too, that’s the best birthday gift I could ever wish for.” With that, they both kissed and everyone smile warmly at them. “Now let’s celebrate!” Kyle put on an old song. “That’s nice, a song about celebrating.” Jane commented as she enjoyed it and walked closer to Kyle. “Yep, a very good one back-“ He never finished as the Ranger kissed him, he blushed in response. “Indeed. Now, Mr. Abstraction, let’s celebrate.” She said, blushing herself and the man nodded with a slight surprised expression. The others smiled with happiness at the lovers and Edward asked Dinky, ”May I have this dance?” With a smile, she took his hand and they danced together. Sasha, Toby, Lukas, Lena, Jan and the Knights started to dance too, enjoying every second of this successful birthday party, knowing it would be something to remember.
Chapter 8 UnsettlingChapter 8: Unsettling As Dinky opened her eyes, she found herself in a rainy Trottingham and heard a whistle. She turned into its direction, seeing a blue unicorn with dark red mane making a stop sign as a car approached. The filly recognized her, it was Pipsqueak’s godmother Blue Murder. He had told her often of how a great godmother the mare was. Unfortunately, after a series of events most refused to divulge, Blue had to leave Pip and his mother, but none of the two blamed her for what had happened. The car stopped and the mare looked to her right and made a go sign and a group consisting of three ponies, the leader was a batpony with an eyepatch over the right eye walked out. “Okay, boys, let’s do this!” “Quite a marvelous day it is outside.” The second pony, wearing a Stetson hat like Applejack commented. “Oh, shut up, Tybalt, all this rain fries my equipment!” The other pony complained. “My pleasure, Bovril.” The other pony joked as they got out of sight and Dinky jumped as suddenly there was a traffic Jam, with Blue looking horrified around. “I told Shadowplay this was a bad idea!” Dinky then woke up, wondering what she had just dreamed as she had to smile. Jessie and Bianca were hugging each other in their sleep, Jane and Kyle did the same. The filly was happy for them that they had found together, knowing they would be happy together. Carefully, not to wake them, she walked out and towards the bar for breakfast, seeing the Knights, Lena and Lukas. “Good morning!” She greeted cheerfully. “Morning, Dinky,” Lukas replied as she joined them. “Have you seen how happy he was yesterday? He won’t forget this birthday so fast.” Wolf asked the others. “Yes, he and Bianca really fit together, and frankly, I think they all earned it.” Lena added. “Couldn’t agree more.” Fletcher took a bite of his toast before Bradford walked in. “Sorry to disturb you so early in the morning, but we got a very important mission to do.” He informed them and they all knew what this meant. “No problem, we report to the hanger bay at once.” Midnight replied and they all equipped their gear, Patch was going with them. Once inside the transport, the Central officer gave the briefing. “As far as we can tell, someone has been smuggling information out of the ADVENT network using one of their data vaults. The signal we picked up is faint, but there’s definitely something down here. ADVENT is already in position for their own recovery effort, so expect heavy resistance and we lost all contact with the resistance forces. Secure the site and locate the vault in question. Leave no enemy standing.” The Skyranger brought them to a small town as they deployed. “Menace 1-5, we’ve got a bead on the ADVENT data vault near your position. Be advised, self-detonating charges are in-place at the target. Move to disarm and extract the package before it’s contents are destroyed.” Keeping that in mind, Dinky and Lukas scouted ahead, moving at the end of the road, spotting an ADVENT patrol, consisting of an Officer, Stun Lancer and a third soldiers they had not seen before. Said soldier was wearing a white and black suit of what appears to be powered armor with a series of silver sockets on the back and a bundle of wires running from the back of the torso to the arms, the suit was marked with red lights on the legs and elbows, large with two pieces of plating on the sides of the helmet. Covering the shoulders of the armor was the bulky white pauldrons, which were larger than those of all other ADVENT units. The most notable feature of these pauldrons was the large red ADVENT logo stamped on the left pauldron, which is shaped like a rectangle. “Our resistance contacts had heard rumors ADVENT might be rolling out a heavy infantry armor system. Looks pretty though.” Central commented as Midnight took position behind a pole and fired at the Officer, blood splatted from the chest as he was thrown against a wall. The Stun Lancer activated his lance as his ally took cover behind a car. The former charged at the batpony who tried to block his attack but the Lancer managed to shove his blade aside and hit him with his Lance into the chest. Midnight let out random gibberish as the electricity went through his body, being disoriented by it, before Fetcher fired at the Lancer’s head and took him out. An ADVENT trooper, together with a Muton appeared from the left side of the road, taking cover behind a fence, Midnight fired a shot at the Muton but missed due to being disoriented. The hand of the white ADVENT soldier started to glow and he punched the ground with it and a red glow was spreading out like a fire and red shields appeared in front of him and his allies. Wolf fired at the trooper, he did only flinch as the shield absorbed the damage mostly. “We must get rid of that shield guy!” She yelled but Midnight got an idea. “Why killing him if he can be our ally?” He used his Amp to send a beam of energy towards the white soldier, he started to hold his head for a second before firing on the trooper. “Dominated!” The others got it, he was mind-controlling him. He ordered the soldier to do his shield trick again, this time shielding the XCOM operatives. The Muton aimed at Lena and fired, she did barely feel pain and only got shoved back a little as she was hit, returning fire and killed the Alien with a shot to the head. “Kill confirmed.” She announced as they moved on. Dinky flew her GEMLIN towards a house where the vault was located, seeing that it was guarded by a MEC and something else. It looked like a blue colored space suit with a yellow glass covering the “Helmet”, looking heavily armored, having what appeared to be a tank with green liquid on the back, causing Central to comment, “This thing looks ready to smash something.” “Is that an environment suit…Maybe something that can’t handle our atmosphere?” Shen suspected. “Those emissions could be toxic. I advise caution.” Tygan warned on the radio. Fletcher fired in the blue suit, the enemy flinched only. “Hit the plate!” With series of low, metallic groaning sounds emitting from behind the sickly-green screen, the Alien then fired multiple green beams, yet missed him, hitting the wall behind him, before Midnight rushed forward to strike the MEC with his Blade, destroying it then retreated back to cover again. The other hostile looked at Lena, aimed it her and Lukas, it’s weapon shook for a second and a green glob was fired from it and both screamed in pain as it hit them “Acid!” The woman yelled as she felt like her skin burned and melted, green spots on her armor, melting slightly, but Dinky was already alerted and healed both with her drone. “Looks like this calls for drastic measure!” The green stallion drew his bow and fire and powered shot, the suit got thrown back, the cockpit broke. A thin, dark, fleshy, faceless figure hung morbidly out its broken visor, blank fish-like eyes unblinking. Then suddenly, the suit twitched and sparked, standing upright again. “We all saw that thing go down…What the hell is it doing?!” Central asked in disbelief as the suit moved towards the Pegasus, laying a trail of deadly coolant in its wake and raised its fist for a strike but Wolf ducked to avoid it. She then fired her weapon and it got thrown back a bit, the White ADVENT solder and Lukas then fired , followed by Patch, eventually taking it down. “Okay, one autonomous alien less in the world.” The Brite said and they moved towards the house, avoiding the acid on the ground and hacked the vault, defusing it. “Menace 1-5, status confirmed, the charges are inactive and the package is secure. Eliminate all remaining hostiles near the AO.” Bradford ordered. An ADVENT transport arrived at the left end of the road and an officer with two Stun Lancers jumped out, the squad got in position before a terrifying roar came from behind the ADVENT troops. Everyone’s eyes went wide in fear at what they saw. A Berserker. But it was different. The head was covered by a metal plate, green glowing lenses were the eyes should be. On the back were two green tanks, connected with hoses to two metal claws. “Of all the aliens running around out there these days…she just had to modify a Berserker, hadn’t she?” Central asked in shock. “Her curiosity was not unfounded, although I agree it was perhaps not the most prudent of choices.” Tygan added. “Oh...well...this day just keeps getting better and better! CAN YOU SENSE THE SARCASM?! CAN YOU?!” Wolf yelled. They all watched as the ADVENT squad opened fire on the alien, but it shrugged everything off, throwing the soldiers back with strong force as it charged at them, then let out a powerful scream, making the XCOM squad quivering in fear. With shaking hands, Patch aimed at it and fired, the shot surprisingly knocked it back. However, it recovered quickly, roaring again and all others concentrated their fire in it as it punched the white soldier, throwing him into a wall, killing him, then slammed the ground, creating a quake that throw everyone over, being stunned or disoriented. Dinky watched in shock as the Berserker moved to Midnight, who had fallen against a car, moaning in pain. “Get up! Quickly!” She yelled on the radio as the Berserker raised it’s arms. The stallion’s vision was blurry, his head ringed as he looked up, seeing a faint, blur figure in front of him. Upon getting clear, his eyes went wide and in a split second, he threw the frost Bomb he still had with him, hearing the cracking of ice. He let out a breath of relive to see the alien frozen, it’s metal claws inches away from his head. “Too close…” He then checked the others, helping them up. “Watch out!” Dinky yelled as the ice cracked, the alien slowly starting to break free. In a matter of seconds, the XCOM operatives surrounded it, opening fire as it broke free, it started to flinch with every hit it took, Midnight used his blade, curing through the chest, Wolf her blade and knives to cut the back. The Berserker let out a dying groan and fell backwards. “The bigger they are, the harder they fall. I’d love to ask Vahlen what exactly she planned on doing with this thing.” Bradford commented relived at the kill. “Status confirmed, all hostiles are down and the area is secure.” “Well, that didn’t go as planned.” Lukas said as they were on their way back. “Hey, could have been worse.” Dinky pointed out with a weak smile and Lena stroked her mane. “I guess you have a point.” Finally back on the Avenger, they used the rest of the day to relax from this exhausting mission, with the others being glad they were still alive after hearing of the modified Berserker. In the evening, Wolf said to Midnight, I hit the hay.” And was instantly asleep as she climbed into her bed. The bat pony put the blanket over her. “Sweet dreams, Wolf.” He whispered and turned to leave before he felt something grabbing him. He looked back, seeing that the mare was hugging him in her sleep. “No, Wolf, I’m not your teddy bear.” He attempted to free himself, only for the Pegasus to strengthen her grip, causing him to groan in discomfort. The time passed, the ponies did some missions here and there to help XCOM, wondering when they could go home. It was now August, and they, together with their friends walked past the lab, seeing Tygan, Shen and Central watching recordings of the Blacksite. “I truly hope those gruesome imagines are the worst of what we find today.” The scientist said to the young woman. “They’re slaughtering us, Doctor. What could be worse?!” Bradford wanted to know as he pointed at the screen. “We’re about to find out.” Lily tipped on a terminal. “I’ve patched the Shadow Chamber directly into the ship’s computer. It’s been shifting through the material we recovered non-stop since our return. Cataloguing sequences.” “Genetic sequences. In near infinite combinations. Yet all bearing similar genetic markers. Human markers” Tygan added. “There must be thousands of them.” Bradford replied with disgust. “Tens of thousands. And the procedure is still nowhere near complete.” “Which is why we need the ship’s computer to find out where they came from.” Shen explained, “By cross referencing them with the data we’ve managed to hack from the ADVENT network.” She tipped on the console and holographic images of patent files and the ADVENT logo got shown. “It’s…an admission file from one of the Gene Therapy clinics.” “Avatar.” Bradford concluded, “Just what exactly is in that vial.” He turned to the scientist, whose expression became horrified. “In my worst nightmares, I would never have imagined.” “Doctor.” Central demanded to know. “I believe we have found the missing civilians.” Tygan said in shock and Bradford shared his reaction. “That’s…that’s impossible.” He said in disbelief. “The gene clinics. Millions of people, just looking for help.” The young woman sounded horrified. “Medically screened and selected. Suitable candidates taken to that contemptible facility to be processed. Refined into the material we now process.” Tygan finished. Dinky gasped at what she heard, the knights, Heavy, Jane and Bianca looked at each other with terrified expressions. Patch, James, Kyle and Jan, Lena and Lukas looked at each other with the same expressions, realizing what horrible fate they had barely escaped and their friends had suffered. “But…Why do this?” The Central officer asked in confusion. “I could not begin to fathom a guess at this point. There exists no research that would ever warrant this.” The Chief scientist told him. “It’s genocide, Doctor. And these people are walking into it!” Lily exclaimed in disgust. “We may not know what they’re doing with this stuff, but I think I can find out where it’s going.” She tipped on the monitor again. “Got it. It’s a high security facility – standard defensive complement.” “Then we should act quickly, there is no time to waste!” Dinky exclaimed, surprising everyone. After a brief pause, Tygan said, “Agreed. The information we gain could prove invaluable towards stopping the aliens’ true agenda. Reminds me, if you see another Codex in the field, Midnight, try to hack it.” “No problem and I agree, the sooner we do this, the better for all of us.” The stallion sounded determined and they made their way to the Skyranger. Once they got in, the others noticed how Sasha was wearing what looked like the skin of the modified Berserker. “Tygan made a powerful armor out of it, let’s see how it does in the field.” He said as Bradford gave the briefing. “As far as we can tell, this Forge is some sort of alien production facility, most likely tied to that stuff we found at the Blacksite. ADVENT and the alien forces won’t be happy to see us, so expect heavy resistance. We have to do whatever it takes to find out what’s going on in there.” The transport deployed them in a forest area. “This is Avenger. The facility is in range, move to investigate.” Central gave the order and Dinky and Lukas scouted ahead. They both spotted a Stun Lancer and Codex patrolling the road ahead, causing Tygan to say, “Commander, that Codex provides the ideal opportunity to infiltrate the ADVENT network.” Just as he finished, the patrol moved away, and loud stomping sounds greeted their ears, seeing a Sectopod, patrolling with the small group, it was black in color. “The aliens used this to defeat most of Earth’s conventional forces. It can punch through armor just as easily as it chews through infantry. Be careful.” Shen warned. The rest of the XCOM squad moved up and Bolster took aim at the Stun Lancer, pulling the trigger. The shot went right through the helmet, throwing the body a few meters back. In the moment the Codex and Sectopod took notice of the hostiles, Heavy fired a grenade at the latter, the explosion destroyed some of the armor and the Codex used a rock as cover. The Sectopod extended its legs and opened it’s front and a series of emitters became visible. They quickly realized it charged up a powerful shot. They all fired at the robot, it did not flinch nor got thrown back, making it impossible to tell if it took damage before they moved out of the way as the Sectopod fired, destroying tress and rocks in it’s path. Midnight then flew up and used his own Blade, the Sectopod glowed red and exploded. Then he dived towards the Codex and rammed the Skulljack into the jaw, lifting him it and killing it instantly, starting the hack. “I got access.” Before anyone could react, a purple glow appeared on the ground near them, glowing brighter and brighter. As it vanished, they all saw what appeared to be a human in a black armor suit. The human had white hair, appeared to be androgynous, the face could barely be seen, covered behind a purple facemask, raising a hand to flaunting Psionic powers, as it glowed purple. “Commander, I believe we are seeing something entirely new…an alien species that has so far managed to elude capture or observation by resistance forces. I strongly advise a cautious approach.” Tygan warned as the human went to cover behind a tree. Dinky noticed that a purple projection of an Elder was behind the hostile as Patch yelled, “The mind is willing!” And shot a beam of psionic energy towards the human, it filched in pain, then vanished in a purple flash and reappeared on their left flank behind a barrier. “It can teleport!” “Let’s see how you like this!” Sasha yelled as he charged forward, evading a shot from the enemy and performed a punch, it threw the enemy into a wall of a checkpoint, but it recovered quickly. “How tough is that thing?!” The hostile then fired a beam of energy towards him and he grunted in pain, but Lena already sent her GREMLIM to heal him. “You won’t get away!” Wolf yelled as she casted her vines to lock the enemy it place, the human struggled, unable to break free as all other fired on it, flinching with every hit but still was standing before Patch fired at the head. The human fell dead on its back and they saw how the projection of the Elder dissolved with a distorted scream. “It’s down.” Abstraction confirmed the kill and they moved towards the Forge. As it was in sight, looking very familiar to the Blacksite, the filly noticed that Lukas held his head for a second. “Are you alright?” She asked with concern. “This place…looks familiar, but I can’t remember from where…”He replied. An ADVENT officer, together with a Stun Lancer and a MEC guarded the entrance, the robot was red in color instead of white. Midnight threw one of his Bombs at them, it blew the soldiers against the wall, the MEC was sparking, but still standing. “it’s better armored than the white version!” He exclaimed but that gave Abstraction an idea. “Maybe, but not against this!” He pointed at the MEC and Lyra flew over, shocking the MEC and it fell sparking and smoking to the ground. The former trooper and Dinky then entered the Forge, seeing several tubes with the ADVENT Logo on it. They opened and they saw something surprising. “These aren’t civilians. They’re ADVENT.” Shen said as she saw troopers in the tubes with their eyes closed, like they were sleeping or unconscious. “Yes. And judging by the subject’s condition, I’d say it was recently manufactured.” Tygan added. “No wonder they keep coming.” Central commented as Lukas held his head again, seeing flashes of the same facility and himself getting operated on. “I…remember. I was made into a trooper in such a facility….” He mumbled and Dinky and Lena slightly gasped, not wanting to imagine how painful it must have been for him. A little further ahead, they spotted a new enemy. It’s visual design appeared to be based of on the Egyptian gods, featuring ornate gold armor, a wreath-like design for its levitation jets and a muscular physique, but like with ADVENT soldiers, only the mouth was visible. It held a polearm in its hand. “The aliens may have cleaned up the design, but these monsters are no better off than the ones my father dealt with.” Lily commented at the sight as the rest of the squad moved in. Next to the new enemy was a Muton, he panicked upon seeing the Grenadier, firing at the flying alien, then cowered behind a wall. The shot only grazed it, but thy saw how the flying enemy, raised it’s hand into the air, letting out a angry roar, like it was in a frenzied state. Sasha pressed himself against the wall as the hostile pointed his pole at him and fired a green beam, hitting the ground next to his left foot. Lena then took aim and fired at the head, taking it down for good. The squad then took a close look at the pods with the ADVENT soldiers, not believing what they saw as Central commented, “First it’s human bodies, now we’re finding ADVENT…something tells me they didn’t abduct these ones.” “Looks more like a production facility to me, the configuration is different…is it possible? Could this be where the ADVENT forces are coming from?!” Shen wondered. “Nothing is beyond the realm of possibility when dealing with the aliens.” Tygan added. They then moved towards a room in far back, finding a white colored tube. ”This is Avenge, package is in range“ Bradford informed them and Jane walked up to it, pulling the lever to open it. A white suit, looking similar to a space suit fell out and she caught it as Central exclaimed in shock, “How can that be? It’s just like the one –“ “Careful! Preserve the specimen at all costs!” The scientist warned. “Confirmed acquisition of the package. Move to EVAC.” The ECAC zone was just behind the Forge, so they quickly made their way there but a reimport brought reinforcements in form of an officer with a trooper and Stun Lancer right next to it on a small elevation. The others suppressed the ADVENT troops, so Jane could get the stasis suit to the EVAC zone and grabbed the rope to get on the Skyranger. “Status confirmed, target package in custody.” Bradford acknowledged. Fletcher then focused his magic and teleported between the hostiles in a flash, stabbing them with his spear to clear the way. “Now let’s move!” Suddenly there was a roar and they all looked behind them, seeing another of those flying enemies, but this one had a red skin and the armor was silver in color. “This…variation on the Archon we’ve encountered before must surely be the modified subject Dr. Vahlen had been experimented on.” The Chief scientist commented at the sight. “She didn’t have to upgrade their equipment on the process, no matter these things escaped from the lab!” Central yelled in annoyance as Patch fired a shot, throwing the Archon back quote a bit, only for it to let about an angry scream, like the regular one had done. As the Specialist reloaded, the modified Archon flew up high into the air and let out a battle cry, launching a barrage of explosives from it’s pinions, the CXOM soldiers looked up in shock and dived out of the way as the pinions came down, barely avoiding it “Watch out, Midnight!” Dinky warned but it was too late as the stallion was still dazed on the ground when the Archon grabbed him and flew high up into the air, the bat pony struggled to get free. “Let go of him!” Wolf flew up and delivered fast, yet strong stabs with her knives, causing the alien to let go and Midnight used his wings to stabilize himself in the air, then rammed his Blade into the Archon’s chest, the alien let out a grunt and fell dead towards the ground. “Vahlen toughed ‘em up good. But not good enough to handle us. “Good work out there people.” Central praised them and they evacuated before more reinforcements would arrive. “We’ve got what we came for, let’s get clear of the area.” “I am eager to begin examining the subject as soon as we get it back to the labs. We might as well take advantage of Dr. Vahlen’s existing experiments, as I have no intention of trying to replicate them myself.” Tygan added. “Commander, that’s the last of ‘em…three botched science experiments, three alien rulers down for the count. At the very least, we know Vahlen is still out there somewhere, and we picked up some new gear in the process. Not a bad haul considering.” As the Skyranger flew back to the Avenger, they all let out a breath of relief that they had made it. “Can…can you believe what they did to those poor people?” Bianca asked, not able to believe what she had seen. “I can’t believe it either. I mean, me, Kyle and Patch barely avoided this fate back then.” James replied with a shaken voice. “Yes, but with this latest success, we might be able to stop this.” Dinky said, sounding very confident about it. “I guess you have a point. Let’s hope it is.” “I’m pretty sure it will, James.” Midnight replied with a slight smile. Suddenly an alert ringed in their ears. “Firebrand, what’s wrong?” Jane asked on the radio. “We got ADVENT interceptors incoming! They got a lock! Hold on!” The pilot yelled and suddenly the Skyranger shook violently and Dinky screamed, with Lena holding her tight to calm her down. The ramp broke apart and they felt the strong wind, smelling smoke from the outside and the VTOL shock again, throwing them all over and they heard screams. “James!” Bolster yelled as he and Toby got thrown out, the Pegasus and bat pony jumped out to save them. “Help!” Dinky yelled as she almost had been thrown out, holding on the ramp with both hooves for dear life, slowly slipping, hearing in shock how Lukas and Fletcher screamed as she were thrown out too. Lena attempted to grab her but she fell and screamed, with all others watching in shock. Her life flashed before her eyes as the ground came closer and closer. “Got you!” A voice yelled before she blacked out upon impact.
Chapter 9: Left behindChapter 9: Left behind “Ugh…” Dinky came to with a chin head and body, her vision was blurry. “I am…still alive?” She groaned as her vision became clear, finding herself on what appeared to be a rooftop, Toby, Jessie, and Lukas were lying beside here, apparently unconscious, the Knights watched over them, with Fletcher looking at her with a relieved smile. “You’re awake, I feared the worst.” “W-what happened?” The filly asked as she got up. “You, me and the others got thrown out as the Skyranger was attacked. Luckily, I managed to catch myself with my magic and caught you just barely before the ground, same for our three friends.” He explained with a slightly shaken voice. Dinky’s eyes went wide as she realized the situation. Are we…L-left behind?” She stuttered in fear and James sighed as he stood up. “I am afraid to say, yes. We appear to have landed in an abandoned city. But I am pretty sure we find a way out of this.” James replied as he noticed how Toby fiddled with his radio, his voice was flat-toned as he spoke into it. “Come on...Come on...Come on-Come on-Come on-Come on! Come on! Is anyone there?!” He gripped the radio harder, his hand shaking. "Cheap, stupid, waste of bloody, sodding goddamn, motherfu-“ He yelled in rage and his friend spoke up. “Toby, let me.” Patch’s eyes went wide and he yelled defensively, “Hey, I'm working!” “That's not your radio.” James pointed out “Well, whose is it then?” The Brit asked, his expression one of despair as he held it up mockingly. “Anyones?! Helloooooo! Oh, silly me, I forgot half of us are dead or missing!!! I am trying to work here!” The sniper raised his hands apologetically. “Yeah, I appreciate that but it isn't getting us anywhere.” “Well, if you stopped standing around looking stupid, breathing down my bloody neck, it just might, okay?!” Patch yelled stressed “Toby, you need to calm down,” James suggested in a calm voice. “Calm down for what?! We're in buggering No-Man's-Land, folks! If we calm down, they get us! Now get off my case!” The Specialist now was yelling in an angry tone. “Patch!” The filly’s voice called out and the man turned to her with a furious expression. “WHAT?!” Dinky took a deep breath and her voice was quiet as she said slowly, “Please put the gun down...” The Brit now slowly looked at the gun in his right hand, he hadn't even noticed he was holding it, put it away and stared at James with a face pale with shock and guilt as he realized what he had almost done. He raised his hand and gave Jessie the radio. “Sorry...I'm just a bit...Sorry...” He said in an apologizing tone before he mumbled as he looked around, his expression half-delirious. “It'llbefineeverythingiseverythingisfineohsweetlordI'mgoingtodiehere...” “Please don’t fight, I don’t like to see friends fighting. I know this isn’t a good situation, but fighting each other won’t help us.” Dinky said with sadness in her voice. The two friends took a deep breath and Toby replied, “Righto. Sorry, we are just still shaken at what had just happened to us.” “It’s okay. Happens to anypony.” “Yes, even to us.” Midnight added. “Now, let’s find a way out of here. And beware of the Lost and Purifiers.” Dinky had been told by them what the Lost and Purifiers were. She couldn’t think of how horrible it must have been for the people that had fallen victim to those fog pods 20 years ago, as they climbed down a fire escape. The filly looked with sadness at the streets littered with abandoned cars, and victims of the fog pods that were lifeless statues, standing or lying on the ground in protective or scared poses next to the leftovers of the fog pods, a green glow was around them with green roots, covering some of the victims too. “This must have been horrible.” “Yes, it was. My home was completely wiped out, abandoned like this one.” James sounded slightly afraid, trembling and so did Toby. It was understandable given the situation they were in and what they had experienced in the past. “Any idea where we could be?” He asked the others as Toby started to read a road sign that looked like a town sign in a non-English language. “The Philippines.” He replied, surprising his friend. “You can read Filipino?” Patch shrugged. “I may have never had interest in the diplomatic background of my family, but it has its perks.” The man’s expression became one of fear. “One of my friends is from here. Her home was hit from one of those fog pods, haven’t heard from her ever since. If she’s a Lost…I don’t think I can…” He said with dread in his voice as Lukas put a hand on his shoulder. “Don't worry, Patch, I'm sure it won't come to that.” Spring took a deep breath. “Righto. Now I wish I had stayed with a rifle. Wolf, can you scout ahead?” He asked as they came to a corner. “No problem.” She flew ahead and they all waited for her report. “Sector is clear.” The mare said on the radio and the group prepared to move on. Suddenly, several bestial howls echoed through the empty streets, startling Dinky. “What was that?” They moved around the corner, seeing Wolf running towards them, screaming “NOT CLEAR! NOT CLEAR!” Dinky’s eyes went small in fear. The Pegasus was chased by fast running life forms that resembled humans but their skin was grey and rotted, their clothes torn, the eyes glowing green. Lukas, James and the Knights opened fire, going for the head, Dinky, while scared, fired non-lethal spells to stun them, seeing how Patch reloaded frantically every round, making her realize how unpractically the Bow Caster was in this situation. One Lost came to close to her, she bucked it with her hind legs, making it stumble and Patch finished it off with his pistol and they defeated the Lost quickly. “Let’s move, we can’t stay here.” He suggested and they all moved down the road, coming to an end, leading to the left or right. “Which way do we take?” He asked before a hissing sound greeted their ears. They saw an inferno on the right side, two Purifiers walking out of it. “Don't let them get too close!” The Specialist warned and Fletcher fired a shot, it went through the helmet of one hostile, the other one moved from cover to cover, evading their fire and responded with a jet of fire. Dinky screamed in fear but Fletcher managed to get up a magic shield, protecting her and the others from the flames. The ADVENT soldier ceased fire at the sound of howling, turning around to see a horde of Lost coming towards him and the others, way too much for all to handle. Midnight decided to use his Psionic powers, sending a purple beam towards the ADVENT soldier, the Purifier held his head in pain, then started to fight the horde. “It will buy us some time!” The stallion yelled and they moved into the other direction. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a dead end, being a housing development with a few courtyards. “What now?” Dinky asked, not able to think of a way out. “We move through the country yards.” Jessie suggested, “Midnight, Fletcher, check the building in the middle. “You got it.” The unicorn replied and they moved out. Fletcher went first, slowly opened the door and saw out of the corner how an ADVENT trooper was about to ambush it by trying to hit him with the butt of his rifle. Fletcher managed to grab the rifle and they both struggled until he managed to shove him back as Midnight threw the trooper to the ground, making Fletcher losing his balance, falling over. He watched as Midnight punched the trooper into the face, throwing the helmet off before the hostile managed to stab him under the armor into the stomach. “Midnight! Oh, Bick!” Fray exclaimed as Midnight clenched his wound and the trooper ran towards the unicorn. The stallion grabbed the knife and struggled again, throwing the enemy to the ground, using his magic to beat him twice with his helmet, splattering blood on the ground. He then moved towards his wounded friend who pointed towards the door. “12 o' clock!” Fletcher quickly drew his revolver and shot an incoming ADVENT trooper into the head. “Get me out of here!” Midnight groaned in pain as the green pony dragged him out, towards the country yards. On your left!” The grey stallion pointed out another Trooper and Officer, Fletcher quickly shot them into the head with his pistol, then vaulted over a fence and helped Midnight over and shot three more Troopers that came from the direction they had come from. “We're clear! Come on!” “I’m losing blood.” Midnight groaned. “Hang in there!” Fletcher replied as he dragged him towards a bridge where the others were holding of a few Lost, leaning his friend against a wall as smoke got popped to his right. “Keep your head down!” He fired his revolver to kill three more troopers. “Watch out!” Midnight yelled as another trooper came behind and the bat pony fired his pistol, taking him down. Fletcher then continued to drag him towards the bridge as suddenly a grenade flew towards him. “Bick!” He yelled and threw it away, not caring if more Lost were drawn to them. “Midnight!” Wolf exclaimed in shock as he assisted Fletcher and helped with Dinky to patch him up, as Patch ordered his GREMLIN to heal. “I…survived worse…trust me…” The grey stallion winched in pain as Lukas took a look at the bridge. “It appears it collapsed during the invasion or through disrepair, but we may be able to jump over it.” “Alright, let’s go for it.” Jessie and Toby jumped first, grabbing the edge and pulled themselves followed by Lukas, while Wolf carried Dinky and Midnight and flew them to the other side, scouting ahead. Fletcher then jumped, holding onto the edge as a part of it collapsed, losing his grip with his left hoof, looking down as it was a long way. As he looked up, his eye went wide as a Berserker grabbed him, lifting him up into the air. Fray barely managed to cast a shield spell as the Alien was about to deck him, the shield did his work but still, Fray’s vision was blurry and his ears ringed for a moment as he felt the pain. “Leave him alone! You big curd!” Wolf yelled as she came from behind, the Berserker turned around in surprise before she rammed her blade into its throat, killing it and Fray fell to the ground, using his magic again to land on the intended side and not to his death, by teleporting. “You’re okay?” She asked him. “I’m fine.” “Glad to hear it, the others are just ahead. Oh, almost forgot.” In a flash she was gone for a second and back, holding Midnight’s rifle. “He shouldn’t be without it. Wait…did you hear that?” “Hear what?” Fletcher looked around, seeing nothing. “I thought I heard something.” The mare walked up to a building, opening slowly the door and drew her knife as a Stun Lancer rushed from her right, grabbing her knife and rammed it into a wall. She took it out and they both struggled before she was punched into the chest and fell on a table. Wolf kicked the hostile, sending him out of the window and climbed out, seeing how Fletcher at the end of the road with the others, holding more Lost at bay, as she raised the knife to finish her opponent but she grabbed it with both hands to prevent her from killing him. He managed to shove it away and punched her in the face, stunning her for a moment. Upon recovering, she heard a cling sound and looked down in shock as she realized that the Stun Lancer had pulled the pin on a grenade she was wearing on her armor, pushing her back into the building. “Auntie!” Dinky exclaimed in shock as she saw the explosion and the ADVENT soldier raising a fist into the air, cheering. “No! Wolf!” Fletcher exclaimed. The ADVENT soldier suddenly twitched, then fell dead to the ground, a knife in his head and coughing, the blue Pegasus came out of the smoke, covered in dust, but fine. “That all you got, you wuss?!” She exclaimed as he grabbed the knife and walked back to the group. Patch did a scan on her, just in case and was relieved that she was really fine, then looked up ahead. “It appears the city limit is just ahead, let me take a look.” The Specialist climbed up a house façade. “Yep, it is. Go ahead, I keep watch.” Dinky let out a sigh as they walked towards, seeing bright sunlight instead of the dark green of the abandoned city, happy to finally be out of here. James put a hand on his radio. “We are out of the city, are you coming, Patch?” Instead of an answer they heard a loud rumble, looking towards the house the Brit was standing on, it was slowly collapsing and they saw him running towards the edge, cursing something, which was incomprehensible due to the crumbling of the house. As he jumped down, the bat pony and Pegasus flew towards him and grabbed him by the arms, stopping his fall and gently brought him down. “Thanks.” “Where do we go?” Dinky wanted to know. Toby thought about it, putting a hand to his chin. “My best guess would be to go to a settlement where we can contact the Avenger.” By foot it would take too long, but maybe we can find something in here?” Jessie asked and pointed to a building that looked like a small garage or barn that had fallen into disrepair, parts of the roof were missing. “It’s worth a try,” Toby replied and opened the door with his friend, all were surprised at what they found inside. It was a yellow SUV, the tires were flatted, the roof had a small dent from the roof beam that had landed on it, shattering the driver window and Patch whistled. “Look at that. Roof must've come down during the years. Uh, good thing it's a Range Rover...these things are invincible. My father worked in a shop that specialized in making and trading car parts, so I know a thing or two. “My father also knew a lot about cars, let’s try to repair it, so we can get around faster,” James suggested. Lukas nodded. “I was never that much interested in cars, but let’s do this.” “I do love a challenge,” Fletcher added, Dinky, Midnight and Wolf nodded, gathering the tools around in the barn and helped as good as they could to restore the SUV, enjoying it too. After a while, the windows and tires were repaired and the fuel tank refilled with some spare canisters that were in the barn too. “Alright, let’s see if it worked.” Toby tried to start the engine and with a loud “Vroom”, it came to life. “Wonderful.” “And not too soon!” Lukas yelled as he pointed an ADVENT ground transport moving in and they got into the SUV, James took the passenger seat. “Why am I behind the wheel? I never even finished my driving lessons!! “Honestly, the roads the way they are, playing Grand Theft Auto's good enough.” Günther countered and Toby’s expression became embarrassed. “Er...” “You never played Grand Theft Auto?!” Sheepishly, his friend asked “...Does Simpsons: Hit and Run count?” “Could you please shut up and drive?!” Midnight yelled as the troops spotted them and opened fire, Dinky shrieked and held onto the seat as Patch put the gas to the pedal and drove at full speed out into the landscape. The others leaned out of the windows and fired their weapons as ADVENT squad cars chased them, aiming for the drivers or tires to get rid of them. Fletcher scored a shot through the windshield of one squad car, it lost control and crashed against a tree. Toby steered the SUV into a tunnel, causing Wolf to yell, “What are you doing?!” “Trying to escape them!” He replied as Dinky could swear she saw a bright light shining in front of them. James’ eyes went wide as he realized what it was. “Incoming train! Go right! Go right!” Dinky screamed as the train came closer and Patch barely dodged it, and his friend yelled, “A little close there, friend!” “Sod off! We're still in one piece!” Patch yelled in response, yet his action had an advantage as the pursuers weren’t able to dodge the train in time, crashing into it, derailing the train and blocking the tunnel. Dinky started to relax as the SUV left got out of the tunnel and drove towards the normal road, taking a deep breath, leaning back into her seat, as Toby said, “I think we lost them.” “Good…now let’s find a way to contact the Avenger.” Midnight replied as Günther noticed something. “There appears to be tape in the radio player. Mind some music?” He asked and the others shook their heads, so he pressed the play button. The tape played a song about a man wanting to get a ticket for a plane, wanting to go home, as his lover had written him a letter, missing her terribly. The ponies enjoyed it, it reminded them of their situation, wanting to let their friends and families know they were safe, wanting to go home. It also suited the situation of Jessie and Toby, as they had lost their homes and loved ones, looking for a new home. They traveled down the abandoned road, not encountering any soul until the sun was setting, stopping to rest, warming themselves at a campfire. “Jessie? Why do you have a headset on your cap?” Dinky was curious and he grinned as he looked at her. “It’s simple. I have a free hand that way, not having to bother with grabbing, which is an advantage as a sniper to react quickly. Plus I can listen to music in my spare time.” He chuckled. “Remember when I told I used to be handicapped?” “Yes.” The filly replied. “You see, I was born two months too early, thus my handicap. I could barely open my left hand, only holding it like this.” He held his left hand like he was grabbing a doorknob. “But I managed to improve, doing things better with one hand than my parents could with two. With the gene clinics, this was healed, though it took a long time to adapt to that.” Dinky thought about it, how strange it must have been for him. “It must been hard for you.” She said with sympathy, giving a weak smile, which he returned. “Yes, it was.” “I am glad we are out of that city. You did pretty well with fighting the Lost.” Wolf complimented them with a hint of pride in her voice “Well, before the commander was rescued, we went into the abandoned cities to gather supplies that were still in there, so we fought them before. After the rescue, the commander decided those operations weren’t necessary anymore.” Patch explained as he took a bite of his ration. Every XCOM operation had emergency rations that lasted for a few days, just in case. “I am glad to have those rations. After the invasion, millions of livestock went missing and ADVENT decided what products people should eat, even animal husbandry got forbidden. I used to have a cat once before the invasion, sadly has not survived.” Günther lowered his head. “The crackdowns on food made the City Centers the only choice to survive. The younger generations that grow up in the City Centers have no idea of survival outside.” He added as he looked up with a weak smile, missing the old days. “If it would be possible, I’d try to give you a new start in Equestria.” Midnight mumbled with a weak smile of his own and both bronies chuckled. “Going to Equestria was a very favored fanfiction subject in the fandom. I’d love to go, though I have no idea what race cutie mark or colors I would have as pony.” James scratched his back. Wouldn’t be surprised if I end up as palette swap of you, Fletcher or of Wagensroll.” Fletcher slightly chuckled, thinking this would be very possible. “And me, probably as a ‘brother’ of Purple Patch or palette swap of him at the most. And Edward would probably a palette swap of Pipsqueak.” Toby’s expression was one of embarrassment. “Best not to break your heads about it. Get some sleep, we stay guard.” Fletcher suggested and the two humans, filly and former ADVENT soldier nodded, getting comfortable around the fire, drifting off to sleep. As Dinky opened her eyes, she found herself at the outskirts of Ponyville, seeing ponies in golden armor preparing large cannons and several canisters, making her wonder what was going on. “What’s happing?” She asked the guards who paid no attention except for a captain, who said in a flat and unemotional voice, “Leave this place. A cleansing is underway. Civilians must be relocated. The Grand Master commands it.” “C-cleansing?” The filly blinking, not understand what this word meant. “Are you lost, child?” A male cold voice said her to her, seeing a unicorn stallion in the same golden armor walking towards her, his voice concealed by a metal mask. “I am Solomon, Grand Master of the Lumen Order, her majesty's most exalted vigilantes. How may I be of aid to you, little one?” “W-what do you mean?” She asked scared, remembering what Fletcher had said about him. “The servitors of Nightmare Moon have become latched, leech-like, unto this dwelling. Already they have struck out at our domain, killing and looting all they see. We must rid them from this land, burn them away like the rot they are.” He explained in his cold voice, not showing any emotion. “B-but… my…” She tried to protest but the shock made her words stick in her throat, Solomon held up a hoof. “You need not worry, child. Your father, the noble adventurer through time and space has demonstrated his deep loyalty to our one true Princess. All have done so will be spared.” While it was a bit relieving, the young unicorn was confused and horrified how the caring princess of the sun could allow such a tyrannical pony to serve in her forces. “No! Please! I don’t want to die!” A young voice cried in fear, Dinky turned into its direction, gasping to see two guards bringing a crying Pip towards her and Solomon. “Please, spare him! He’s my friend!” She cried in despair, tears leaving her eyes. Solomon in return, dried her tears, smiling. “Dear child, the lion cub does not mix with the wolves. The heathens choose their fate while the blessed accept the fate our Princess chooses for us. Their blood once spilt is only on their own hooves. Tears must be shed for their sin but never for their suffering.” His voice sounded warm and caring. Despite this, she sniffed, not believing what she just heard, Pip was her friend, he hadn’t deserved this at all. Both took notice of guards wearing bright yellow armor, having what seemed to be gas masks made out of glass-crystal bubbles if they saw it right, turning the canisters on and fired the cannons, green-yellow gas started to cover Ponyville. “Mark my words, children: This will be a day long remembered, it will see the end of the Eternal Knights, it will soon see the end of the Lunar Republic.” The Grand Master told them. Dinky just stared in horror at the gas cloud, watching her home getting destroyed. If Solomon’s words were true, her family was safe but all her friends, the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Ruby, Noi, would suffer a slow and painful death, as the grass turned black, the tree leaves yellow. “The Purification...It...Is...GLORIOUS!” Solomon exclaimed in admiration. After several minutes, the gas cleared. “Now, my chosen. Bear your torches hence. Root out the shadow in every corner and curve and purge it from Celestia's domain.” Solomon ordered his troops and they moved out. The filly couldn’t believe it, her home was destroyed, her friends about to die, how could Celestia let this happen? “Fletcher Fray! You fled like a rat from the pyres of Mondelin! Behold, I hunt you still! The sun above grants you no place to hide!” The stallion added in a triumphing tone. “Your heresy will go unpunished no longer! Celestia wills it! Now, time to give you what all traitors of the sun deserve.” He turned to Pip who trembled in fear. “Don’t hurt him! I beg you!” Dinky pleaded, stepped in front of his little friend. “I understand your caring for him but only by cleansing those traitors from our own ponies, we can guarantee peace and safety,” Solomon explained in his cold voice as he stepped closer. “Grand Master!” One of his soldiers interrupted him, pointing towards the town. “What…now?” He asked confused, as his soldiers ran back to their own positions in panic, trampling over each other, while falling into their own barbed wire. The reason terrified Dinky to the bone. What was left of the population and defenders, counterattacked with all they had left, led by the Eternal Knights, showing signs of chemical burns on their faces, their bodies wrapped up in rags, spitting out blood and pieces of their lungs. “Madness! Heathen madness! Pull back to the Badlands point! Pull back!” Solomon exclaimed in shock and panic, completely terrified himself by this sight. The Lunar forces opened fire with their rifles, killing many of Solomon’s troops with artillery. But Solomon wasn’t ready to leave. He roared up on his hind legs, his horn casting a rising whip of flame like a crown of fire, Dinky closed her eyes, not able to see what would happen now. “BURN, HERETICS!” He screamed, Dinky could feel the fire around him. She expected screams of pain, instead, she heard the sound of a piercing chill, followed by a groan of pain. Slowly opening her eyes, she saw that Fletcher had rammed his spear through Solomon’s chest. The Grand Master was held into the air, grabbing the spear in shock, writhing and spluttering, blood running down his mask. The mask was hiding any emotion but Dinky could swear Solomon had never been expected this. “Solomon... That the best you got? Then your best won't do. You among wolves now. And these are our woods.” Fray said before he pulled his spear out, and the Grand Master fell to the ground in his own blood. Fletcher then turned to Dinky, managing to give her a smile before he succumbed to his injuries, falling to the ground, along with Wolf, Midnight and many known faces of Ponyville, like Big Mac, the major, Carrot Top, and many other earth and Pegasus ponies, but strangely, no unicorns. Despite still being in shock, she didn’t hesitate to free Pip who hugged her. “Thanks but what are we gonna do now…” He asked in shock. “I don’t know.” She replied, looking at the gassed city, noticing what appeared to be a magic shield coming slowly out of the gas clouds. Behind the shields were all unicorn residents of Ponyville, casting it, the CMC, Noi, Ruby and all other foals walking out behind them with half sad, half relieved faces, knowing they had all lost something but were still alive Lyra looked at Bon-Bon’s body with sadness and grief. “I will never forget your sacrifice.” Pip and Dinky looked at each other, then joining the survivors as they evacuated. Many had died, but thanks to their sacrifice, a part of Ponyville had survived to live another day. The child woke up with a slight gasp, breathing heavily, looking around. It was night, the others sleeping peacefully. Dinky let out a sigh, relieved that it had just been a dream. Yet, she realized Earth's wars may not have been so strange to Equestria as she thought. The Lost had terrified her and she hoped her home would never have such a fate as those poor people. Taking a deep breath, she fell asleep again. She awake as she heard a voice saying, “Wakey, wakey, Dinky.” And feel a hand gently shaking her. Yawning, she saw Toby looking at her with a smile. “Good morning, Toby!” She greeted with a smile of her own and they all breakfasted. James then suggested, “We should move quickly, there is no time to lose.” Patch grinned. “Righto! There’s no stopping us!” He said and turned towards the SUV, only to trip with an annoyed groan, causing everyone to briefly chuckle before they got in. The trip was quiet, the streets empty and it started to rain, making Dinky pensive how the others were doing, probably worried about her, the knights, Lukas, Patch and James. She looked at the patch on Spring’s shoulder that had SAS written on it. “Toby, why do you have that patch on your shoulder?” She asked him. “It’s a reminder of the Past. SAS is short for Special Air Service, a Special Forces unit of the British Army back then. Founded in the Second World War, responsible for intelligence gathering, sabotage, and assassination and after the war, it became a Counter-Terrorism unit afterwards, coming to prominence with their dramatic ending of a terrorist siege at the Iranian Embassy in London in 1980, where their zip line assault through the windows was broadcast live on both main British television channels in prime time on a public holiday. I highly have respect for them, trying to keep them honored.” He explained with a sad voice and the Knights and James rolled their eyes. He's at it again. “Sounds like a good idea to me. Everyone who fought to protect earth should be remembered.” The filly replied. “Yes, they should be remembered. Most people were respectful of the surviving war veterans that were still out there back then. Some might even offer them a friendly smile. Still, there were plenty of people who couldn't do anything but blame them. As such, it won’t be easy for us to find shelter. The City Centers are out of the question, security is high, checkpoints and scanners everywhere. Plus, there is the propaganda. Resistance mugshots, surveillance footage, renderings, anything to put XCOM into the light. We can’t afford this kind of attention.” The Specialist explained and suddenly stopped the car. “What’s the holdup?” Midnight asked surprised and Toby pointed ahead. “Rural Checkpoint. We can’t use the Rover, it would blow our cover immediately." “Then we will have to walk, there is no other way around it.” Lukas concluded. “Yes. Midnight, take our weapons and gear, so we can pass through without raising suspicion.” Toby said. “Okay, what about Dinky?” The stallion asked with concern, she looked at him with a worried expression. “I know you can sneak past, but I’d say she goes with us, with her, we could fool the guards easier.” Dinky thought for a moment. “I trust you here.” With that as answer, the Knights moved out with the weapons and gear of the two XCOM members, while the filly with the two humans and one trooper moved towards the checkpoint. One of the guards made a stop sign. “You do realize curfew’s still in effect? Civilians aren’t allowed outside until absolutely necessary. Where are you going?” Toby quickly replied, “My daughter slept over at my friend’s house…”He pointed to Jessie, who nodded. “I went to pick her up. We’re on our way home now.” The Knights watched from a safe distance, yet close enough to interfere as Fletcher got worried. “He suspects something.” “Stay calm.” Midnight replied. “You all right, little girl?” The Guard asked Dinky as she was slightly scared. “She’s trembling…Something wrong?” “She…she’s cold…We really have to get her home fast.” The Brite replied and wrapped an arm around her. “Sorry, Sir, but we got to be careful. Terrorists are around and our guys are nervous. You should hurry on home.” The guard stepped aside and Toby smiled. “Thanks.” They walked through the checkpoint, relieved it worked. “Hey, wait a minute!” The same trooper yelled and they stopped, slowly turning around in fear. “He knows, Midnight! They’re gonna arrest them!” Wolf said to him. “Don’t do anything.” The grey stallion replied. Neither she nor Fletcher did protest, they trusted him. Dinky slightly trembled as the trooper looked at her, fearing they had been discovered. “You’re dropped this.” He said and reached for what looked like a photo of Toby and James, apparently mistaking it for hers. “Thank you.” The girl took the photo with a smile. “You’re welcome.” The group then moved on, meeting up with the knights once they were far enough away. “I really thought for a moment that they had us.” Günther let out a sigh of relief. “Yeah. Gyro made a scan while he was with you, Midnight. He detected a nearby train depot. We could sneak on one of the trains to get to a town and radio for help.” Toby explained. “Risky, but our only chance right now.” Midnight replied with unease in his voice. They carefully moved toward the location of the depot, coming to a small hill where they had a good view of it. A train was there, ready for departing, only guarded by a small squad of troopers. “We only have one chance at this,” Günther said and the others nodded. All guards had their back to the intruders, so it was easy to sneak towards the nearest train cart and get in without getting detected. Yet, nobody dared to say a word, out of fear the ADVENT troops might discover them as the train moved until it stopped and suddenly moved upwards, like it was lifted, hearing a loud engine, like of a jet engine. They suspected they were now in the air, also staying silent until they heard how the noise stopped and a faint rumble could be heard as the cart touched the ground, appearing to have reached its destination. Lukas carefully opened the door, finding themselves at a small ADVENT outpost. “Well, that’s convenient. I can hack the communications relay, I can send a signal to the Avenger.” Spring sounded confident. “Okay, we watch your back,” Jessie replied and the Specialist carefully made his way towards the relay in the middle of the outpost, until a building created a blind spot for them. I hope he makes it. Dinky thought with worry as a few minutes passed and he didn’t return. Patch's GREMLIN buzzed in annoyance, it's internal systems compensating for the stream of swear words that came out of Patch's mouth as he grew impatient. Come on, come on! The signal was slowly getting through but this was getting risky. Something was delaying it, like the hack had been discovered but there were no alarms. Still, the longer Dinky was here, the more dangerous it could become for her and he couldn't risk her life. Luckily, a green light appeared on his screen. Finally! Now let's- His thoughts were derailed when a plasma shot flew straight through his GREMLIN's protection, hitting the antenna straight on. "Whoa!" He dived to cover as an ADVENT patrol had come out of a blind spot where his friends couldn't see them. “Damnit! Cover him, I get us an escape out of here!” James said and the others nodded, firing at every ADVENT soldier they saw, while the filly pressed herself against a wall. Dinky stayed in cover, trying to stay calm as she heard an engine revving, and it wasn't just her. The guards at the entrance turned towards the gate in surprise as a large, white, ADVENT van headed straight for it. James rammed through the gate, the guards barely jumped out of the way as the van came to a stop right next to the ponies. They all wasted no time to get in and she spotted Patch running towards it, making a dash towards the passenger door. She shrieked as blood splattered on the side of the van. It wasn't Alien blood as she noticed that James' expression was horrified. "PATCH!" Author's Note A reference and a historic event hidden in this chapter
Chapter 10: Old WorldChapter 10: Old World “That one...stung...a bit...” Toby managed to say before he slowly collapsed, James caught him and put him on the passenger seat. He then slammed on the accelerator, driving out of the outpost as fast as he could, Dinky and Fletcher used their most advanced healing spells on Toby, it would keep their friend from outright dying out due to blood loss. However, that didn't stop him from dying from shock or something else, as he was bleeding badly from the chest. “We got ADVENT on our tail!” Midnight yelled as sirens blared and squad cars chased them. “Keep them off!” Jessie yelled as he tried to keep the van steady as he entered the roads, Lukas, Wolf and Midnight opened the rear doors and opened fire in the pursuers, again aiming for the tires or drivers. One squad car came dangerously close, so Midnight used his wings to jump over to it and rammed his blade into the engine, then flew back to the van. The engine started to smoke, then exploded and the driver lost control, crashing into a pole, creating a blockade for the other cars, preventing them from continuing their pursuit. “I think we lost them!” Lukas was relived as James drove into a forest, near a mountain. “Good, but we need to be careful, it will be just a matter of time before they search this forest and they won’t give up quickly,” Jessie warned as he stopped his expressions became confused. “A dead end?” “Something’s not right…why would a road end at a mountain that way?” Midnight wondered and tapped the mountain, hearing a metal sound coming from it. “Hmm…” He walked from one side of the rock to the other and found what appeared to be an encrypted pad, hidden under fake moss. “Would you look at that.” James in return used his pad to get activate the system, he wasn’t as skilled as his friend, but still managed to do it as the pad flashed green. They all stepped back in awe as the rock formation slid upwards, while the ground beyond it tilted down. The sound of old generators greeted their ears as it opened up, revealing a clean, concrete tunnel going down into the mountain itself and long, fluorescent strip lights in the middle of the roof blinked on, at least some of them. “Wow…” The Sniper mumbled before turning towards Dinky and Fletcher, barely catching sight of Toby's ragged breathing. “How is he?” “Critical, but stable. We must hurry.” Fray replied as the GREMLIN gave out a warning beep, meaning there was no time to waste. They got into the van and entered the mountain, rocks slid down and water emerged from the end, as if a stream had suddenly decided to flow through. And soon the ravine was partially flooded, and there was no sign of an entrance ever being there. Inside, Günther carefully down the ramp all the way down into the roots of the mountains, eventually coming to a large garage big enough for tricks, having a loading bay. There was another exit, collapsed, next to it a large, broken glass tube. The half opened door, half-melted, half-collapsed, hinted there had been a battle some time ago, but faded papers that had become part of the floor, abandoned boxes and abandoned equipment on tables hinted the place was left in a hurry. “Where are we?” Dinky asked as Wolf and Midnight opened the door, so she, Lukas, James and Fletcher could carry Patch in. “I don’t know, but it’s very old and not from ADVENT as far as I can tell,” James replied as he looked around and saw a table with medical supplies and a stretcher. “Perfect!” They carefully placed the injured man on the stretcher. “I’m afraid he lost a lot of blood, he needs a transfusion,” Fletcher told him with concern. The sniper smiled weakly. “Good thing that he and I have the same blood type, and the supplies are old, but still have everything we need.” “Okay then, I will do the procedure,” Fletcher said as Günther pulled his sleeved back and Dinky gently held his hand in order to calm keep him calm as Fray injected the needle. “You’re doing great.” The filly’s voice was calming as James’s expression was slightly one of pain, yet smiled at her words until it was done. “That should it. Let’s pray he makes it.” Fletcher sounded concerned as he finished. “Yes...He will need him to contact the Avenger, this place looks like it has barely power.” James noticed that the lights were flickering, “We need power to get a strong signal.” “Agreed. Question is where is it located, we have to wait until Toby wakes up.” They all nodded and had some rations, looking over Spring, who was now breathing easier, his pulse stable, and his skin now looked much more healthy, with his GREMLIN monitoring him. Jessie sighed. “I really hope he makes it. I can’t imagine what to do without him.” “I hear ya.” Midnight replied with a weak smile as he looked at them, they returned it. "I know we aren’t in a good situation, but I am sure the others will look for us” Lukas sounded confident of it. “We can only hope and pray for the best, staying positive,” Dinky added as they heard Patch groan, slowly opening his eyes. “Ugh...Bloody teenage drivers...Is it time for tea, mum?” He mumbled as Jessie helped him up with a smile. “No, and we need a have a talk about those magazines I found under your bed, young man,” Jessie replied with a faked English accent, trying to sound female, yet failed miserably, not that the others minded. Patch leaned heavily on the table, half-chuckled, half-coughed as he replied, “What, Warhammer?” He laughed, then winced, placing his hand on the side of his torso. “What happened?” Dinky was maybe too young to understand but something told her not to ask them what they meant with magazines as James answered his friend’s question. “When you were jumping into the van, a lucky stray shot got you in the back… I think it went right through you…” Upon hearing this, Toby winced and lifted his shirt, confused, yet relieved to see no scar. “The healing spells I and Dinky used prevented any permanent marks.” The green unicorn explained and he and the others found themselves in a hug by the specialist. “You saved my life…” His voice was soft and one of gratefulness. “We only did what was right, helping a friend in need.” Dinky smiled at him as he let go and looked around. “Where are we anyway?” “Some kind of underground base. And this room appears to be a locker room.” Lukas replied as he took notice of a looker with his surname, looking at it in awe as he saw the first name. “No…It can’t be…” The others wondered what was wrong until they saw the name too. Nils Barber. “F-father…” Lukas mumbled in disbelief. “So…we are at the old XCOM base, who thought of that?” Jessie commented at the sight upon realizing. Lukas couldn’t describe the feeling that went through him as he walked towards the locker, opening it as it was unlocked. Inside was a diary, completely fine, free from dust. He couldn’t help himself as he opened and read it, the first entry was on 1st March. Just got accepted into XCOM. I feel excited, yet a bit scared, but I can’t let it happen that my family gets abducted or killed by the invaders. I have to stay strong for them. The others said nothing, they understood Lukas’ feeling to want to know what happened to his father as he read about the first mission of his father My first mission, preventing an Alien Abduction, went better than I have expected, no causalities. If we can keep this up, the aliens will never know what hit them. The former trooper flipped the side, reading the entry that was made in early April. The aliens attack civilian targets. We must stop them before casualties get too high. God…I hope my family is safe from those…Chrysalids… Lukas smiled weakly, he luckily never had encountered a Chryssalid during the invasion, yet understood his father’s worry. “Mother and I were safe in a shelter back then…” He mumbled then read the next entry. It appears we found a base of the Aliens. Hopefully, it’s infiltration will put a stop to this invasion, or at least delay it. The name of the operation…’Operation Health’. Where the hell do they come up with these names anyway? After action report. Captured enemy commander and a device of unknown purpose. We also found some of the abducted victims, getting experimented on. God…makes me even more worried about my family’s safety. It made Lukas relived that he never was victim of the abductions back then, yet it made him realize that the gene clinics served the same purpose as he read the next entry that was made just a few days later. The Aliens somehow managed to find our base and attacked it, but we managed to repel it. Now we have to find out how they managed to do this. We got also reports about alien sympathizers, called EXALT. If it isn’t bad enough, now we have to fight each other? Once this is all over, I spent time with my family, for sure. “Sadly, it never happened, dad… Lukas let a tear escape as he read the next entry that had been made in late May. We recovered a prisoner held by EXALT, a French woman called Annette Durand, apparently being able to wield the same powers as those Sectoids…This just gets better and better. 13. June We just rescued some prisoners that can also wield Psionic powers. Dr. Vahlen is confident they can use those powers for XCOM, I hope it will be worth the risk we took. 29. July We managed to take down a UFO that appeared to be a command ship and captured an enemy leader, called “Ethereal” or “Elder” by Dr. Vahlen. Something tells me we will regret this. 2..August I know it. A big alien ship appeared at the coast of South America. But we managed to locate the HQ of EXALT and bring it down for good. I doubt the remaining forces will be a problem. Now it’s time to finish on the Aliens again. Lukas started to shake as he read the last entries. It is time, I have been selected to the team that will assault the mothership of the invaders. Annette volunteered to use the device we recovered to get on the ship. If I should not survive, my dear wife and son, I love you with all my heart. I do this for you. We did it. We defeated them. But Annette sacrificed himself, so the ship wouldn’t destroy Earth as it was about to explode. I will never forget her sacrifice. This is the end. Several more of those motherships appeared, we are under attack and the Council ordered us to stand down. I’m so sorry, my dear family, so very sorry… I failed. Now, the man started to sob at what he had read, the others looked at him with sympathy and James spoke up, “Your father was a great man, he did everything to protect you, sacrificing himself. Thanks to him, Earth survived. Dinky hugged the former trooper. “He will always be with you in your heart.” Barber slowly started to smile, stroking her mane. “You’re right, he did a brave thing. Now, let’s find a way to contact the Avenger.” “We are in luck, I found a switchbox just around the corner, I might be able to get it running again. Patch explained and walked up to it, inspecting it. It was dented, apparently having been hit in the attack. “This could take a while, Fletcher can you give me a hoof?” “Sure thing.” Dinky looked around, wondering how many had survived or died before she heard two screams of pain, seeing sparks coming from the direction the box was. “Okay…still has juice…” Toby said with a pained voice before the light switched on. “Nice job, now let’s take a look around.” Midnight suggested and stepped out into the hallway, and suddenly screamed and the others heard dull thumps. They turned into the direction, seeing a staircase. The echoing of a throat and hoof steps sounded, seeing the grey stallion coming out, fine but out of breath. “Guys…found a…containment facility…At least I think it is one…” “Well then, let’s take a look, there must be a communications device somewhere.” Toby suggested and they walked down, coming to a room with a big glass tube in the middle of it. “I think this is where they held captured aliens, possible even interrogated them somehow.” He added and pressed some buttons on the console and a video activated. It showed a man wearing a blue suit, his eyes hidden by sunglasses, his hair was short and black hair, looking unimpressed at two arms that extended out to his left and right, then walked calmly towards to the wall before a gate blocked the view and it ended. “That was….creepy…”Dinky said with fear in her voice. “Yeah, those were the Thin Men back then. Makes me kinda think of you, Midnight.” James pointed out and the stallion looked in confusion at him. “How that?” “Well, I guess you would react just like the Thin man if you would be in his place. Plus, if you had to take your old form as a disguise but still have the white eyes, sunglasses would help to hide it, just like the Thin Man.” He explained and Midnight chuckled. “It did work, actually...For over sixty years. The Bizarre Demi-Blindness of Professor Dusk Shine...Someone even wrote a book on it. No-one thought to actually take off the glasses.” “I took a look at the layout.” Toby interrupted them, “Turns out the Engineering and laboratory are right next to it.” The group decided to check the Engineering out first, the room looked like a small factory, robotic arms and conveyor belt took the major of it, several white-colored weapons with a red glow and weapons with a green glow were scattered on the tables, along with corpses of Engineers, causing Dinky to look away. “Poor guys. Bradford mentioned how the mountain housing XCOM headquarters is the final resting place of many XCOM operatives.” James said with pity and sadness in his voice. “But I am pretty sure those Laser and Plasma weapons still work.” “Very likely. I wonder what the lab has in store.” Toby wondered and they all took a look. Like the Engineering, it wasn’t a pleasant sight. Corpses of scientists were scattered around in the lab with typical lab equipment. There were also wrecks of what looked like flat saucers and spider-like robots laid around, together with squid-like robot wrecks and massive bipedal robots wrecks with round, grey, skull-like heads. “If I remember correctly, Central told once those saucers and spider-like robots are called cyberdisc, the squid robots are Seekers and those massive wrecks were the previous models of the Sectopod,” Toby explained. “Sounds like the Aliens were well equipped back then,” Fletcher commented with a hint of fear in his voice. “Yes, they were, but so was XCOM. Seeing all this reminds me of something…” Jessie mumbled as he slowly started to grin. “Bradford told us a lot what he went through to rebuild XCOM. One of his stories was to recover an ‘artifact of power’ in a stasis pod and…you will never believe what it was according to him.” “Well?” The filly got curious. “The sweater he wore during the invasion.” He replied and the Knights and Lukas shook their heads in disbelief. “You've got to be kidding! That’s ridiculous!” Wolf said, trying to hide a chuckle. Günther shrugged. “That was what he told us all, I guess he hit his head or was drunk back then.” “I guess we will never know the truth.” Patch added, “Anyway, we might be able to send a message from the Mission Control in the top part of the base.” The bat pony pointed to the floor. “Lead the way.” They moved out, walking past the hanger, seeing a wreck of a fighter jet and of a saucer-like interceptor, appearing to be a hybrid of human and alien technology. “Those were the interceptors of XCOM during the invasion, shooting down UFOs. The first is called Raven, it was the standard Interceptor by XCOM, armed with Avalanche missiles that were upgraded with Earth's best targeting software. They engaged the aliens in the sky for quite some time successfully.” James explained and pointed to the other interceptor. “And this is the Firestorm, the product of the reverse-engineering of many of the aliens' UFO technologies and integrating them into a hybrid fighter craft. They engaged the heavier and bigger UFOs.” “Sounds like those pilots did quote a brave work. Wonder though why the Aliens never dismantled the base and left it that way.” Wolf mumbled. “I guess they never saw reason in that with XCOM destroyed.” Patch suspected as they took the stairs up, reaching their destination. Similarly to the Avenger, there several terminals and a big screen on the wall, along with a real-time holographic representation of the Earth In the middle that flickered as the power turned on. Also, corpses were scattered around. “Sorry, mate,” Toby said as he pushed a body of a console and started to use it, Gyro buzzed as he did so for a few seconds. “Got it, message’s out and received, they are on their way.” “That’s good to hear.” Dinky smiled, then remembered something. “What happened to your old friend?” Toby smiled weakly. “I vouched for him to be sent to a settlement. It was the least I could do for him.” “Did he know anything about your girlfriend and family?” The filly asked with hope. “His smile faded as his lowered his head. “Sadly no. My girlfriend’s hometown was wiped out by the fog pods, so she’s mostly like deceased. And since SAS was disbanded after the surrender, even he couldn’t find out anything.” Suddenly, an alert ringed and tore them out, the screen blinked red and Spring took a look. “Bugger it, ADVENT found us! We won’t have much time.” “Agreed. We should arm ourselves with the plasma weapons, they are better than the magnetic ones.” Günther suggested. “And we could use the wrecks of the alien machines for traps to delay them,” Fletcher added. “Good thought. I also looked at the layout, the entrance we used is the only one in, all others have collapsed.” Patch replied and they prepared everything. They placed the wrecks along the tunnel in several defensive lines, taking position on a balcony on the mission Control, having a perfect view. It didn’t take long for ADVENT to arrive and move in, a few Mutons and Chrysalids were with them as the scanners showed, causing Toby to shiver. “Why have it to be Chrysalids? James gently patted his shoulder. “Calm down, Toby.” “I've seen what they can do...I've seen what they leave behind...” The Specialist exclaimed with an uneasy voice and expression. “Calm down! Focus on the mission. We have to keep Dinky safe, we came this far, we can’t fail now.” “I can still hear the screams...” “Take a deep breath and calm down, we have to keep her safe. Push everything else out of your mind. Focus!” His friend advised and he took a deep breath. “Alright, damn it. Alright.” The ADVENT soldiers never knew what expected them as one of the Sectopod wrecks fired its powerful chest canon, the extremely devastating attack killed several soldiers that moved in groups, surviving stragglers got strangled by the Seekers, choking them unconscious, while the Cyberdiscs fired their beam weapons, punching even right through the Muton armor, killing them instantly. Other Sectopods fired barrages of explosive mini-bombs, killing or delaying the enemy even more. Still, they slowly pushed forward but it gave the defenders the time they needed and Patch exclaimed, “Let’s give them a proper welcome!” as the first enemies closed in. The door exploded and all defenders opened fire as ADVENT moved in, getting mowed down. Dinky stayed in cover, resupplying them with ammo and called out enemies, seeing how Toby fired a plasma rifle the Bolt caster on his back. Midnight and Wolf flew through the hostiles, slicing them with their melee weapons. A Chryssalid tried to leap onto the balcony, James shot it midair with his pistol and it fell dead to the ground. “Nice try!” He taunted. “Don't let your guard down! These ones are pissed!” Toby commented as the attackers came wave after wave. “Doesn’t look any different than they are in any other fight we had!” James replied. You don't know them like I do! You don't see the rage in their eyes! They're mad, trust me!” “Focus on the battle at hand, and allow us to do the same!” Jessie yelled, slightly frustrated as he scored a headshot on a Stun Lancer. “Okay, Okay! No more angry Jabberers, just a bunch of very obedient henchmen, colt and relentless…” “Toby, please pay attention to the battle at hand!” Günther reminded him as he reloaded. “Gotcha!” Before Dinky could react, she saw something flying out of the entrance, blinking green. “Grenade!” She yelled and instinctively dived out of the way, the explosion deafened her hearing and her vision was blurry. The filly groaned in pain, barely able to look up as she saw that all her friends had been blasted off the balcony, lying dazed on the ground, the hostiles surrounded them. Wolf attempted to grab her Alloy Cannon, the plasma version of the shotgun but a trooper kicked it out of her hoof, holding her at gunpoint, Fletcher and Midnight stayed down, Lukas, Jessie and Toby knelled, their hands behind their heads. Dinky watched in shock as the officer shouted out orders, she knew she had to act fast, but couldn’t take on every hostile, looking frantically around for a way to help her friends. It can’t end that way! It can’t! She closed her eyes, waiting for the shots that would end, it, flinching at the sounds and bodies, hitting the ground. “Looks like we got here just in time!” The voice of Kyle sounded in her ears and she slowly opened her eyes, seeing all hostiles dead, Kyle, Heavy, Lena, Bianca and Jane stood at the entrance, their expressions were one of relief. Only now, Dinky noticed that Bianca was wearing red colored armor with the same helmet and wings of the flying red enemy they had defeated earlier, hovering in the air before landing next to James. “Are you okay, my love?” She asked concerned as she helped him up. “I am fine.” “Lukas, you’re okay!” His wife was happy as she hugged him. Now, Dinky also took notice that the squad was now also armed with Plasma weapons, visible by the green glow they emitted. Bianca then looked up to Dinky and in a swift motion, she vaulted up to her. “Ae you hurt?” “I’m fine. “The child replied as the woman gently picked her up and jumped down. “Let’s get out of here.” The flight back to the Avenger was quiet, the Skyranger repaired, they all were glad to be back in one piece, as Central looked after them. “Welcome back, I had feared the worst.” “Yes, Bradford, it’s nice to be back. I found the diary of my father.” Lukas explained and the elderly man showed a brief expression of sadness. “You can be proud of your father. He fought with determination to keep you and his wife safe at all costs. I can’t remember much when we were attacked, but I think he saved my life back then.” “Of course I am proud.” He then, together with the others went to the bar to drunk something, Dinky played with Edward as he asked his friends, “Any idea how they found us so fast? “I can only think of that they tracked our signal.” Midnight suggested and turned to Jane. “What did we miss?” “Actually, not much. We found that those flying enemies are called Archon. Tygan managed to study the weapon they use and created a new Blade for us Rangers, the Fusion Blade. It can set enemies aflame.” Wolf whistled. “Sounds quite useful.” Suddenly the power cut out and the ship titled, causing the children to scream before Fletcher caught them with their magic and everyone held on. “What’s happening?! Edward asked scared. “I don’t know.” Toby hugged him to calm him down as Central’s voice sounded on the intercom. “We’re going down! UFO contact has disabled our systems! Brace yourselves!” Suddenly, the ship stabilized itself and red emergency lights went own. “That was close,” Kyle said as he stood up before the ship shook in regular intervals. “Menace 1-5, report at once!” Central’s voice buzzed on the intercom and they all did as told, Dinky, after taking a deep breath, grabbed her GREMLIN, thinking they might need her. “The situation is critical – primary Avenger systems are offline and hostiles are moving to engage. Shen, any updates?” Bradford asked her as she checked the systems. “Critical system failure – the Avenger is dead in the water. I’m diverting reserve power to the scanners- and they’re picking up a powerful radiation source nearby – we need to locate and destroy whatever it is disrupting our systems.” “There’s also a bigger problem. We’re picking up heavy comm. Traffic – dozen of ADVENT transports are inbound on our position – and they got battleships in tow. The Aliens are sending everything they got – we have to get this ship off the ground or we may not make it out of this one.” With that in mind, the squad moved down the ramp, seeing a yellow beam in the distance, raging into the sky. Dinky took position on the ramp with the three snipers, using her GREMLIN to take a look. Just down the first, next to a house was a huge needle-like device that generated the impulse that prevented them from escaping, guarded by three Chrysalids. The rest of the squad moved towards it, using the trees as cover as an Officer, together with a Shieldbearer and an Archon were in sight. The Officer pointed at the Grenadier and yelled out orders, firing a shot, but the Russian only flinched as the armor did its job. “Only a flesh wound!” Then the Shieldbearer deployed his shield to protect his allies and the Archon flew towards Sasha, only to panic as he spotted Bolster. The Shieldbearer could barely react as the Archon fired at him, killing him instantly and all shield collapsed. Jessie’s lover brought the Archon down with a headshot, James himself killed the officer as Dinky healed Sasha. “Frag out! He yelled as he shot a grenade between the Chrysalids, they let out cries of pain before Patch, Kyle and Midnight finished them off. Wolf and Jane the fired a few shots at the Disrupter, but it only sparked. “That thing is very robust!” “Not for long!” Fletcher charged up a powerful arrow and fired, the disrupter got destroyed in a big explosion. “Target destroyed. Excellent work, Menace 1-5. Shen, what’s our status?” Bradford asked. “Whatever it was, destroying it seems to have lifted the disruption field. Engine control systems are coming back online. We should be clear to take off within sixty seconds.” “Good, because the situation just got worse. Resistance outposts are reporting enemy transports on the move across this region. They’re getting ready for an all-out assault.” Bradford warned and the squad made its way back to the ramp as another a transport arrived, dropping off an officer and Priest, yet were shot by Fletcher and James as they jumped out. “We made it!” Abstraction raised a fist into the air as he cheered upon reaching the ramp. “We did all great. The Avenger lives to fight another day.” Dinky praised them. The green unicorn let out a breath of relief that it was over and they could go. “Help!” Dinky screamed and everyone turned around. “Dinky! No!” Fletcher yelled as he saw how she got dragged away, it was a Viper on a transport above them. The filly struggled as the Alien bound her, seeing how two ADVENT trooper suppressed the XCOM squad on the ground. Dinky’s vision slowly became blurry, she tried to breathe but the Viper had her tight in its grip and she blacked out. Kyle took aim and fired four shots but Midnight held his rifle down, causing him to miss. “We can’t risk it!” He then grabbed his radio. “Central, they got Dinky!” He reported and they were all forced to watch as the ADVENT transport flew away. Author's Note Another reference hidden in here
Chapter 11 RetaliationChapter 11: Retaliation Dinky groaned as she regained consciousness, rubbing her head. What happened? Where am I? Her eyes went wide as she found herself in what appeared to be a facility beneath the ocean, several large pods were scattered around the room, and a large statue of an Elder was in the middle of it. “The Temporal One...The daughter of the rift-walker and the mare who should not have been...Truly, you are a curiosity.” A voice echoed through the room, sounding emotionless. It was eerie, dissonant. As if speaking through several other voices and she saw how the pods glowed purple and something materialized in front of her, looking identical to the statue, wearing a red coat, the mask was golden. An actual Elder. It was astonishing for the young pony, yet confusing. “H-h-how...wh-what are you doing?” “Your power begets our conversation, willingly or otherwise. Know that, already, you are ours. What remains is for you to decide how willing you choose to be. Would you help your world...or hinder it?” The Elder asked in return. Dinky got more confused, why should she help them? “I...I want you to stop...I want to leave the humans alone.” “Alone? With what? With their wars? With their disasters? With their madness that has gripped their civilization since its beginning and endures as long as there are none to oversee them?” The unicorn did not understand. “Why should you oversee them?” “Who better? Gaze upon us, child. Know of our power, our capabilities. Even glancing at a being beyond your comprehension, rich as your world is with magic, you understand that it is in our reach to teach humanity to live without hatred, without ignorance...without suffering.” The Elder explained to her. It made no sense to Dinky, why the brutality then? “But what about the attacks you made?! The people you killed?!” “Retaliation, definition; to repay harm done to you upon those responsible for it. Our wrath is directed upon those who would see us suffer, who would prefer themselves to suffer than live in gratitude to that which they refuse to understand.” Dinky started to shake, remembering why XCOM fought for. “You don't understand! Humanity didn't ask to be overseen! They don't want to be overseen!” “...A sign they need to be.” The Elder said and vanished. The filly couldn’t believe what she just heard. The aliens had attacked humanity, how could they see their cause as just? Seeing it necessary to watch over them? “Why….Why did you invade them? They never did anything to you…” She mumbled in confusion. “Our intentions for humanity were never hostile.” A different voice sounded in her ears, also echoing but sounded caring, friendly, and she saw an Elder which cloak and mask was colored blue. “What…what do you mean?” “Our home was the oldest of worlds and the first to be consumed. Billions were lost. When we first encountered Earth we wept for a broken world. A tortured race crying out to the stars in agony. We answered their call. We saw their true potential. The invasion was a test. But humanity did not fail. They succeeded beyond measure.” The Elder explained to her. Dinky tried to make sense of it. “Bu-but what has this to do with me?” “You are the child of one who conquered time itself. Truly you were meant for something more. With your aid, your powers, we will work in unity to prevent your world from suffering the same fate as ours.” The pony thought about it, shaking. It made sense to a degree but still… “Why should I help you? After everything that happened?” She wanted to know. “To protect, pony kind and humanity, child. You have nothing to fear.” “B-but…I can’t…” She stuttered. “I don’t want to kill….” “You won’t have to.” The Alien replied it raised an arm, the hand glowed purple and suddenly, Dinky felt sleepy, closing her eyes. On board the Avenger, Fletcher grew worried. “I can’t believe this happened. We should have done something!” Wolf put a hoof on his shoulder. “Don’t blame yourself, Fletch, there was nothing we could have done without putting her at risk.” “We'll get her back in no time. The information we've attained will give us a head start.” Midnight added with a weak smile. “Yes, Fletcher, she means a lot for all of us and we won’t rest until she’s safe.” Kyle had an honest expression with the others. “Much appreciated.” The stallion now smiled weakly. “I….I just hope they won’t…” the young boy trembled and Toby hugged him. “We won’t let that happen, Edward.” It was late in the night as the Knights got called by Bradford. “We located her magic signature in a therapy clinic but we can’t confirm it yet.” “I can take a look.” Midnight offered and Central nodded. The grey stallion stepped into the Skyranger, staying in the shadows one arriving at the city center, having no problem to get to the facility, seeing many ADVENT troops guarding it. Guess I am on the right track. He climbed into a vent at the side of the building, waiting until a trooper had walked past before proceeding inside. A trooper was patrolling inside, the Knight followed him without being seen, towards a door, seeing a scientist doing maintenance on a stasis pod. “I will do as ordered, I just need additional time.” The man said to the trooper before hearing a strange sound and turned towards the soldier. “Did you say…something?” Blood splattered from the trooper and he fell dead to the ground, the man looked in fear at the bat pony. “You’re one of those!” He took a step back in fear. “You must understand. I had no choice…” He tried to explain before Midnight knocked him swiftly out. He then looked at the stasis pod. “Oh, Luna…what did they do to you, Dinky?” He mumbled in shock as he saw the filly inside a stasis suit, yet didn’t hesitate to report. “I have visual confirmation.” “Are you sure?” Central asked. “Eternal Knights are always sure.” “I’ll take your word for it. Cover your tracks and get out.” “Copy that. I promise we get you out of here, Dinky.” He looked at her, then got out of the facility the same way he got in, waiting on a roof for the rest of the squad to arrive. It took around thirty minutes for the Skyranger to get here and his fellow Knights, together with the humans got out. “We will need a distraction to get in.” Patch figured out and looked around, spotting an ADVENT van at the end of the road. “That should do it. Let's get cracking.” The others nodded, getting into position as he walked up to it and placed an explosive charge on it. “If they spot me, take the sides and be ready to move in on my signal.” “What signal?” Wolf asked before they all got it. “Patch, don't be an idiot. We can get you out of this if it comes that far.” Midnight tried to assure him. “I very much hope so but if those guys see the charge going off, we're all in danger, especially Dinky. This could be our only chance.” The Brit pointed out. “And...If I don't make it out of this alive... Pick up my pieces...and bury them in Surrey.” “Hey, you there!” A voice yelled and he saw an ADVENT officer, together with a few troops coming towards him. Toby knew he had to do something and fast, so he did the first thing that came into his mind. “♫And did those feet in ancient time. Walk upon England’s mountains green? And was the holy Lamb of God. On England’s pleasant pastures seen?♫” He sang and the soldiers looked confused at each other, yet closed in. “What...the buck...is this?” The grey stallion asked nonplussed. “...William Blake, I think.” James replied. “♫And did the Countenance Divine. Shine forth upon our clouded hills? And was Jerusalem builded here. Among these dark Satanic mills?” In the moment they stood before him and he felt the explosion, closing his eyes and grunted in pain. “Gonna feel that tomorrow.” Then he realized he was actually far away from it, next to Fletcher, his horn glowing. “Do you think I let you die that easily?” The stallion asked and the Specialist realized he had been teleported away, tisin being an aftereffect. Yet the explosion had the desired effect as almost all troops investigated it, only a handful was left outside. Wolf flew between them, slicing them in a blink of an eye, allowing the rest to get into the clinic. “Uncle Fletcher’s here, Dinky!” The green unicorn said as he pulled the switch to open the pod, fearing the worst as it slowly opened, his heart raced. It almost skipped a beat at what he saw once it was open. “it’s empty!” “How?! We were only gone for five minutes!” Midnight exclaimed in surprise. “They must have moved her out of your view.” Jessie concluded, “Let’s get out here, there’s nothing else we can do.” Heavy used a grenade to blow a hole into the wall of the backside of the clinic and they all evacuated. “Damn it…We were so close…” Fletcher lowered his head in defeat. Lena out a hand on his shoulder. “We will find her, safe and sound, don’t give up.” He smiled weakly in response and it was early morning as they came back. Edward looked at them with hope but quickly understand once he saw their lowered disappointed expressions, shaking. “Please…don’t tell me they….” Before he could finish, Lukas looked at him with a weak smile. “The hope dies last. No matter where she is, we will find her and safe her.” “Attention, Menace 5, report to Central at once.” The intercom buzzed and they did as told, his expression was one of slightly worry. “We picked up an intermittent distress signal. And as far as we can tell the aliens are hitting back against one of the resistance outposts. It doesn’t look good. I need you to move in as fast as possible. We also discovered traits of unicorn magic.” “Then Dinky must be here, there’s no time to waste!” Fletcher exclaimed, not wanting her to die and they got back into the Skyranger, hoping it wasn’t too late. Parts of the settlement were burning as they arrived, Wolf scouted ahead, seeing cowering civilian behind a fence, moving towards him, noticing a Stun Lancer running towards him. She shot him in the head, sending the soldier backwards into the dusty ground. “You’re covered, go!” The mare yelled and the civilian moved towards the Skyranger. Midnight then moved up, noticing what appeared to a cocoon near a house, a Chryssalid emerged from it and rushed towards him. He reached for his Fusion Blade and slashed at it, setting the Alien on fire, it flared around before dying. “Starting to like this thing already.” Lena moved towards another civilian she spotted, but he collapsed and turned out to be a Faceless, she didn’t hesitate to shoot it, the plasma rifle burned right through the chest, killing it instantly. Fletcher scanned the area from a hill, noticing a shadow from behind the burning building, looking like a filly. “Guys, I think I found her!” “Good!” Midnight said and walked towards it, hearing a scream. A woman came across the corner, falling to the ground, bleeding from her arm. “Dinky, are you-“ He cut himself off in shock as the filly stepped out. She was dressed like an ADVENT Priest, but the armor was red like that of an officer, having a cape on the back, armed with a Magnetic rifle and Psi Amp, the former held by her magic. Dinky put a hoof to her chest, then raised it towards the sky as she looked at it and said something in the alien language. “Oh no…” Midnight mumbled in shock as the filly vaulted behind a crate for cover, then reached for the amp and sent a purple beam towards a Muton. The Alien aimed at Midnight and fired, grazing him and he cried in pain. “We have to neutralize her!” Just as Midnight had said this, the filly looked at Heavy and pointed at him, while yelling and other ADVENT soldiers, together with a Viper came from behind her. They opened fire, suppressing the XCOM squad, forcing them into cover. “We can’t kill her!” Lena yelled. “Let me try something!” The female Sniper jumped up into the air on a tower, only to realize the young unicorn had her in her sight, firing a rapid burst of six rounds, hitting her into the chest, throwing her over with a cry of pain. “Damn it!” Fletcher then got an idea, focusing and teleported behind the ADVENT and Alien forces, flanking them and drew his pistol but was forced into cover by the same Muton. “I’m pinned down!” He yelled as he pressed himself against a stone wall, trying to think of a way how to stop this without hurting Dinky. I can’t hurt her! There has to be a- Suddenly something threw him to the ground and he felt a sudden stabbing pain in his chest. A piercing chill shot through him. The stallion struggled to get up, groaning in pain, holding his chest and looked at his hoof. It was covered it blood, he was bleeding, seeing the shot had come from Dinky as her rifle was smoking, it was the last thing he saw before collapsing. Fray’s friends looked in shock to see him lying in a puddle of his own blood, breathing heavily. “Fletcher!” Wolf yelled and let out an angry growl. “No! You bastards! You're dead! You're all bucking dead!” In a fit of Berserker like rage, she flew through the hostiles, slicing them, creating chaos as she tore through their ranks. Her ears twitched as she heard a faint sound, stopping as she realized it was sobbing, turning into it’s direction. Her comrades did too, surprised at what they saw. Dinky walked over to Fletcher, dropping to her knees with a lowered head, her forehooves grabbing his armor tightly, tears left her helmet. It came from her, she was crying at what she had just done, slowly standing up and looked at the sky. Suddenly she held her head and screamed in pain before falling to the ground. They all were shocked, yet Lena didn’t hesitate to check her and Fletcher as Wolf had neutralizing all other enemy forces, hoping it wasn’t too late for both of them. Her worried expression became one of relief. “They are both unconscious.” “That’s good to hear. Wolf said as she and Midnight grabbed the now stabilized Archer by the forelegs, Lena took Dinky in her arms and Patch checked on the woman, her face was one of surprise as she saw him. “T-Toby? Is that really you?” The Specialist was just as surprised, but stayed calm and focused. “Yes, it’s me and I am glad to see you are alive, but let’s get you to a safer place." They all were glad Dinky was so far alright but wondered what had caused her to fall unconscious as suddenly, Lena’s GREMLIM let out a warning beep and she took a look. “What? She’s deploying a cerebral haemorrhage!” “Then we should hurry!” Midnight replied and alerted the Avenger. Once onboard, Lena, Midnight and Wolf brought her to Tygan who scanned her. “It appears she has an implant in her skull, we must remove it immediately or we risk losing her.” “Are you sure you can do this?” Midnight asked with concern. “Yes, I did this before with the commander.” Dinky’s vision was blurry as she came to, hearing faintly a voice, “…Preparing final incision.” She saw what she could only describe as a tong, as she heard a female voice. “Her readings get erratic! Doctor!” Then saw how a scientist implanted something in her, feeling numb but it was very painful before everything went black. “No signal.” The filly slowly blinked and saw an Elder before her, it raised it’s hand and it glowed, overpowering her senses. “…pupillary response normal, Vitals stabilizing. Procedure complete.” It was Tygan’s voice, shining a flashlight into her eye before everything became black again. The filly couldn’t tell how long she was out, but her head was aching as she came to in a bed in the crew quarters, seeing Edward smiling at her. “Glad to see you've woken up. Must be a serve headache though.” He said with pity as she tried to get up, only to fall back. “Easy…Tygan said a chip was buried halfway into your skull.” You were out for the rest of the day.” Slowly, she remembered everything and saw Fletcher walking in, he was bandaged but appeared to be in good health otherwise, smiling weakly at her. Yet, she was filled with guilt, starting to shake and sobbed as she lowered her head. “I’m sorry…Fletcher…so very sorry that I…” He gently hugged her. “I am not mad at you, Dinky, you hadn’t control of your actions.” She sniffed. “T-thanks…” “…I never thought I’d see my girlfriend ever again but I hope Dinky’s fine.” Toby’s voice sounded in her ears and the middle-aged man walked in with the others, having a weak smile too and Dinky remembered. “T-Toby… I…did I…killed…I’m sorry…” The filly stuttered in guilt before he patted her back. “I don’t blame you, Dinky, I know you would never do that. My girlfriend survived, she should be released soon. She doesn’t blame you either.” He told her with an honest expression and she sighed. “That’s good to hear….” Yet, she was lost in thought. They said my friends would not be harmed. They did they lie? Or… She couldn’t finish as the Chief Scientist walked in. “It is good to hear you are woken up, Dinky. I found out what the purpose of the implant was.” “And that is?” Midnight asked curious. “Similarly to the implant the commander had, it was a conduit, passing a vast amount of data directly into Dinky’s cerebral cortex. Tactical combat simulations. The same as in ADDVENT officers in the Psionic network.” Wolf growled. “They made a war machine out of her.” “Indirectly, yes.” Tygan countered. “I analyzed her behavior, it was completely defensive, with her shots meant to incapacitate but not kill anyone that became a threat to her, it appears the Elders wanted to spare her the guilt of murder. Also, there’s something else.” He sounded slightly unease about it. “What?” Fletcher asked. The man took a deep breath. “The Psionic gate we recovered needs an organic signature. It is needed to activate the gate. It has to via the Network, but a direct interface would cause serve, if not fatal trauma to an unprepared central nervous System. Yet, Dinky has survived this, with the commander.” Dinky looked at him in confusion, trying to make sense as Fletcher protested with a worried expression, “B-b-but, she's still a child!” The others shared it. “I know, but the organic signature is the only key and both keys are needed.” Tygan replied. “But only if she wears the best armor!!” Fletcher demanded. “It was different.” Midnight pointed out, “The Stasis suit…” “Created the perfect interface to the network. Tailored to her specific biology. Of any candidate, she and the commander are the most likely to survive the connection.” “Most likely is not good enough.” Wolf added with concern, “Alone getting disconnected almost killed her.” “Yes, because the shock of having hurt Fletcher was too much. But it’s the only answer I can give you. And our only option to traverse the Alien portal.” The scientist countered. There was silence for a moment before the green stallion took the word. “No, I'm sorry, but this is not something I'm supporting.” Dinky looked at him with confusion. “But Fletch-“ “I'm sorry, Dinky, we're putting our hooves down. Our mission is very clear, get you home safely. Letting you do this defies logic.” Wolf cut her off. “This could be our only option.” Tygan replied to explain as Midnight replied, “Fine, I volunteer in her place.” Tygan sighed annoyed, losing his patience. “Sir...” “I've been through worse. I could get my head around it.” The bat pony added with a neutral expression. “No, no, you don't understand.” The doctor said, his annoyed tone becoming more audible. “Why the hay would we understand sending a kid to head a mission this deadly?!” Wolf exclaimed with a hint of anger. “Because Dinky is the only one here the Elders don't want to kill!” Tygan exclaimed and paused to take a deep breath. “I know this is bad. I realize you must feel awful doing this, I feel awful for even considering it, but none of us have the same chance of safety that she has. This is, quite honestly, our only option, and time is far too scarce for us to look for others. Please, for the people of earth, for everyone you've met here who has placed their trust in you, Dinky has to do this. No-one else.” In response, the Eternal Knights gazed around the room in uncertainty before Fletcher said, “Let me ask again. She'll have the best armor and sensors?” “Yes.” “We'll be in touch with her at all times?” The mare added. “Of course.” Midnight then took the word. “And we'll be allowed to help her if things go flanks-up.” “None of us will stop you.” Tygan replied and the grey stallion shook his head. “My mind must be waning after all these years...Very well.” “Don’t worry Fletcher, I am sure we can make something.” Dinky’s voice sounded and they all looked confused at her. Her expression was neutral, yet her voice sounded slightly mature, a purple glow surrounded her eyes and horn. “It is our only chance, we can’t afford to lose it.” “What…” Kyle mumbled in awe. “Ah, I forgot, it appears the psionic powers she gained affect her personality, boosting her bravery as far as I can tell.” Tygan added. “Still, we need a plan for this. You should use this to think about it, Dinky.” Midnight advised and they all left the room to give her some quiet. The Eternal Knights looked at each other with worry and unease. They understood the need, but it was very risky and none of them could ever forgive themselves if Dinky would die. But it seemed unavoidable if they wanted to succeed against the Elders. Dinky was also lost in thought. She couldn’t tell why she felt so ready for this, it seemed so natural, necessary if she wanted to go home, seeing her family and friends again. Yet, she wondered, the Elders said she and neither her friends would be harmed. If they were honest, then why making an ADVENT soldier out of her? Was her being defensive their promise of no harm? She couldn’t tell and probably would never know. The filly looked on the watch on the wall, seeing around a quarter hour had passed as the other XCOM operatives looked after her. “We managed to create a heavy armor for you, we made sure it’s comfortable for you.” Fletcher said and held it with his magic, looking similar to the heavy armor of Sasha, being dark blue in color. Yet, before she could answer, Patch tipped on a close and it showed a man in the shows, unable to be identified as he spoke, “Hello, Commander. You and your crew are to be commended. Your efforts in rebuilding the resistance network and uncovering the truth about the Avatar project have been admirable. I only wish I had better news.” He sounded concerned and the others realized it showed the Spokesman talking to the commander. “ADVENT is not taking the death of an Elder lightly and in return have greatly accelerated the final stages of their Avatar Project. A plan is now in place for the rapid processing of all non-essential life. To begin immediately.” This earned shocked expressions by everyone. “Very soon, ADVENT’s Speaker will announce a breakthrough in gene therapy. A final treatment for the human condition. Billions will flock to gene clinics across the globe. They will never return. I have managed to secure tactical data and access codes to the ADVENT Network Tower. The Speaker’s address will be broadcast live via to a global audience via this facility – the whole of ADVENT’s network will be listening. It is this hubris we must use against them. The information I am sending you should allow Doctor Tygan and Chief Engineer Shen to take control of the transmission and disrupt their entire network from within.” He paused for a moment. “Though my hope is that this disruption will confuse the enemy’s forces long enough to allow your final assault a chance of success, I ask one more thing of you. Take what you have learned. Let the world know what is happening here. Wake them up. Broadcast the truth. Before there is no one left to listen.” Suddenly, a loud pounding noise was in the background as someone tried to breach the door and the human looked briefly at it, grabbing a pistol. “It seems we are both out of time. Farewell, Commander.” The transmission cut off as the door got breached and a firefight broke out. They all stayed silent for a moment, trying to process all this information. “This is the chance to strike at ADVENT’s heart. There is no turning back now.” Dinky said again with her mature voice, sounding very determined. “You…saw everything?” Central’s voice came from behind, startling everyone. “Y-Yes, sir, I passed it through, thinking the others should see it too.” Toby was a bit nervous, fearing he might be punished for this but Bradford gave a slight smile. “It was good thinking, spares me the briefing. Dinky, you really want to do this? I know it’s a hard burden.” He looked at her with concern. “I am ready to assist, humanity must know the truth.” She said and put her armor on, together with a Psi Amp. The other nodded and went to the Skyranger as Edward and Jan waited for them “Good luck, Dinky. Be careful” The boy gave her a hug, Jan did the same with her son. “Of course I will, Edward.” The unicorn replied and they all entered the transport. The Skyranger dropped the squad off on a platform on a Skyscraper, the purple beam of the tower was visible in the middle of it, looking almost identical to the spike that had prevented the Avenger from escaping. It was clear ADVENT didn’t put much effort in hiding the Alien tech. “Move to infiltrate the network tower. Locate the access point and hack in to seize the broadcast signal.” Central briefed them and Lukas scouted ahead. He walked towards a crossroad, in front of him was a small cabin with antennas on the roof, being the access point, guarded by a turret on it, to his right a MEC and trooper and to the left a Codex with a Archon. “Abstraction, can you shut down the turret?” Patch asked and he nodded, watching as Lyra flew past the guards undetected and hacked the turret, it’s barrel pointed downwards to show it was successful. Wolf then moved behind a wall for cover, aiming at the Archon and fired at the head, taking it down. “You know that was good!” The Codex spotted her but Jane made a sprint to slash the enemy, the Codex flinched at the hit but survived, creating a clone and teleported on a platform to their right, out of their movement range or so it thought as Patch got an idea. “I’ll pierce all!” he yelled and created a Psionic Lance, sending the purple beam towards it, killing it instantly. However, this alerted the trooper and Merc, the latter responded by firing a barrage of explosives towards the squad. “My shield will hold!” Dinky yelled as she reached for her Psi Amp, casting purple shields around everyone and herself, they all heard the sounds of the explosions, but found themselves completely unharmed by it. Kyle ducked behind cover as the Trooper fired at him, grazed him and he cried in pain. “That one hurt!” He yelled before Lena sent her GREMLIM to heal him and Jane saw how the Codex teleported towards a wall next to the cabin, she ran after it and sliced it again, killing it. James noticed the turret was about to reboot and fired his rile at it, the plasma beam went right through the armor, destroying it. With only the MEC and trooper left, Kyle pointed at it and Lyra flew over it, shocking it, making the robot twitching and Fletcher fired his Rifle, throwing it back before Midnight used his blade to slice it through the chest, dealing the killing blow. “Suppressing!” Heavy yelled as he fired, pinning the trooper down and Bianca took the shot, killing the hostile with a clear headshot. With all hostiles eliminated, Kyle then moved into the cabin seeing a console. “Menace 1-5, target in range. Move in to hack the command console.” Central ordered and the Specialists did as told. “We got access!” He reported and Central confirmed it. “Status confirmed, we have control of the network tower, the signal is going out.” They all took this as sign to get back on the Skyranger, a few ADVENT soldiers fired at it in an attempt to stop it before the tower released a bright yellow shockwave, causing them to hold their heads and cry in pain as they passed out, getting disconnected, a MEC also opened fire but became limb as it shut down from the shockwave. Bradford watched the broadcast on a screen as a crewmember reported, “Firebrand has cleared the perimeter, sir. Meeting limited resistance.” “Well done, Doctor.” “Yes, it would appear the feedback pulse is having the intended effect.” Tygan replied a he looked on a screen showing the technical details of it. “Shen? Status…Did it work?” Central asked as the broadcast started, showing a propaganda speaker. “ADVENT assures us this breakthrough will be available to all citizens immediately. We go live to the Speaker for more…” She said and the scene switched to him. “Fellow citizens. For 20 years we have put our trust in ADVENT, in the Elders – because we believed a better future is possible for all.” He said as a footage of ADVENT soldiers got shown briefly flickering and showing them without helmets. “Today, that trust, that belief, has been rewarded.” It then showed a Retaliation strike, earning shocked expressions from the viewers as the Speaker continued, “ADVENT peacekeeping forces are traveling across the world carrying the greatest gift from the elders.” He paused for a moment. “A revolutionary gene therapy, yes. But so much more.” He was completely obvious as the footage of the Blacksite got shown behind him. “This is an end to disease. To pain. The beginning of a new tomorrow. Available to all of us. Today. Truly humanity takes its rightful place among the stars.” He turned around in confusion as the crowd shouted in anger, becoming shocked as he saw the footage and took a step back before the crowd stormed towards him and the broadcast cut off. The XCOM squad then prepared for the final mission, Dinky saw how the commander was in stasis suit, the Avatar they had recovered started slowly to move and she took a deep breath, using her psionic power to make the connection as Bradford gave a speech. “Alright, people. The World got its wake up call. And now they know the truth. ADVENT is a lie. And their time is up. They’ve got a full-fledged war on their hands now! While the Aliens struggle to contain our world, we’re gonna make a move on theirs. It won’t be easy. But you’re used to that. You did what was needed. You never gave up the fight. You are XCOM. And you’re gonna end this! Humanity is counting on us, people. Good luck!” He finished as the squad stepped with the commander into the portal.
Chapter 12 Final AssaultChapter 12: Final Assault The XCOM squad stepped through the portal, finding themselves in an underwater facility. Dinky recognized it, it was the same where she had met the Elders. “Okay, Commander, stay alert. No way of knowing if they detect our-“ Central tried to warn before they all saw a holographic view of civilians getting arrested. “…presence yet.” “Such loss. Such needless waste. You force our hand. Yet we still offer peace. Rejoin us and your world will be spared.” They all heard the voice of an Elder trying to reason with them, Dinky recognized it as the one who had been promised she nor her friends would be harmed. “You harbor such blinded hatred for us, we cannot understand it. Our intentions for your world were never hostile. They are still not. You are a part of us.” The Elder added as the squad moved out, ignoring it, they knew they couldn’t give up, having come so far, as Central commented, “They actually expect us to buy any of this.” “More distrust. Perhaps you would find more reassurance on our words if…”The Elder was cut off as the Commander’s Avatar used its Psionic power to block it. Lena ordered her GREMLIN to scan the area ahead, spotting three Stun Lancers ho waited in cover for them. The Grenadier fired at the Lancer on the very left in the next room, killing him instantly and Jane finished off the next with her rifle. The last remaining Lancer charged towards the Commander, avoiding all shots fire on him and drew his Lance, only for the Commander to avoid it by ducking, then responded by firing its Psionic Repeater, killing the Stun Lancer instantly. “So many lives risked to bring you back to them, Commander. And for what? More violence. More war. More death. Truly you were meant for something more than this.” The Elder sounded again as they moved on, being ignored by the Commander as Bradford had a report. “Getting reports from across the globe, Commander. ADVENT forcers are hitting back hard. Our people are holding their own but it’s not looking good. Whatever we gonna do, we better do it fast.” “ADVENT offered your people hope. A brighter future. To be something greater. But still you refuse. What more can we offer you than the greatest gift of all?” They heard the Speaker on their radios, making them wonder how he could have survived the angry mob as he continued, “So much time spent needlessly resisting, fighting your ascension to something greater! And yet here you are, just as we had envisioned. In your efforts to prevent the Avatar’s creation, you have followed the part we set forth, truly exceeding even our lofty expectations, Commander.” “Shut em out, Commander. More Alien lies.” Central countered and the Speaker asked in return, “Do you truly believe that to be the case?” The soldiers ignored it as they moved on a long bridge, hearing the Elder’s voice again. “Time and again you have rejected our wisdom. And still we show compassion and generosity. But as with all things this must end too. We can no longer afford to suffer your transgressions.” “Commander! Alien forces are stepping up their attacks on both resistance and civilian targets!” Central informed them and the Elder responded to it. “There is still another way.” Yet the squad was not thinking of it as they reached the other end, only for the Elder to speak up again. You view is as the conquerors of Earth, but that was never our intent. Each species you’re encountered, the aliens you have fought and slaughtered. None of them were given a choice. Our home was the oldest of worlds and the first to be consumed. Billions were lost, if only that were the end.” Midnight peeked around the entrance of the next room, spotting an Archon with two Mutons. He fired on the Muton on the left, killing it as the other went to cover behind container while the Archon charged forward, only to be shot right into the head by Patch, the other Muton got shot by Kyle. “Commander, resistance forces are pushing back against ADVENT, but it’s coming at a heavy price…At this rate, there may not be anything left on either side.” Central said as he gave another report. “From here we can call an endless legion of reinforcements. You will be overrun. Yet our armies could be withdrawn at any time, Commander. Peace is within your grasp, if you would just rejoin us.” The Elder’s voice sounded once again, but the intruders moved on. “For decades you were part of us, Commander. You are capable of so much more, and yet you fail to grasp the true nature of your power. Return to us, and your world will live on. Resist, and there will be nothing left to save…” The squad barely made it through the room as another of those white floating balls, called Gatekeeper as they knew from Tygan, together with a group of Chrysalids. Midnight took off into the air, dropping a few of his bombs on the Aliens and used his own Blade to cut through the Gatekeeper. The explosions were deafening but cleared the way. “Let’s go, there’s no time to waste!” “Hearing reports of some randomized disruptions in enemy forces on the ground. Units suddenly laying down arms or turning on one another.” Central reported. “With the tower disrupted, it could be that the Elders are attempting to maintain the network on their own. The strain on them must be…enormous.” Tygan suspected. “Our power does not waver. You find our forces here loyal. They require no coercion, for they know failure here means the end for all.” The Elder’s voice sounded in their ears. “Consider all those who have sacrificed for your cause, Commander. So many friends...so many allies…for what…” The Speaker wanted to know as the squad moved on, being ignored, they all knew there was no turning back. “When we first encountered Earth we wept for a broken world. A tortured race crying out to the stars in agony. We answered your call. We saw your true potential. The invasion was a test. But your people did not fail. You succeeded beyond measure. You need only accept your place amongst us…” The enemy leader sounded again and Central interrupted, “Keep pushing, Commander. They’re losing their grip on the world and they know it.” “We have lost nothing. For our greatest weapon returns to us.” The Elder countered. “You will defeat them here as you did once before, Commander.” Another Elder added with a more eerie, dissonant tone. As they came across what looked like a human living room. “What is that?! Some kind of human enclosure?” Shen wondered. “There were always reports of missing civilians used before the first invasion. Could this be them?” Central added. “Maybe they had planned to use this for some sort of psychological testing…” Tygan suspected as the team walked past, coming to another bridge, two Codex and an Andromedon, so was the name of the alien using the environment suit, guarded the other side. Fletcher and James managed to take out both Codex before they could do anything, moved toward, trying to cover its faceplate with a hand as the others fired on him, damaging quite it’s armor as it managed to get to a support beam for cover and aimed at the squad, its weapon throbbing. “Oh you, you don’t!” Dinky yelled as she used her shield ability again, nullifying the acid damage before the Commander gave the alien the rest, raising a hand, cheering in the Alien language. As the shell reactivated, Wolf fired at it, throwing the remains of the suit back and over the reeling. “Enemy down!” She announced and they came to a big room, Dinky recognized it as the one where she had talked to the Elders. “Astounding. This entire facility submerged beneath our oceans. But for how long I wonder…”The scientist commented at the sight. “One problem at a time, Doctor.” Central reminded him as the pods started to glow purple. “Your form is but a shadow of our truth. We seek to defy that which would consume us all. Your efforts deny the sacrifice of those who came before. You leave us no choice.” The other Elder said as three bright purple lights appeared and the same number of Avatars came into sight. “You are our greatest adversary. You are our Avatar. You can lead our armies. And save your world. Return to us, there can be no more delay.” “Though I find the possibilities proposed by the creature intriguing I believe we passed the point of rational discourse,” Tygan commented. “We didn’t come here to talk,” Bradford added. “Yeah, take it down.” Shen shared his opinion. “Your persistence is admirable, but tired. It is time to accept the part laid out before you, Commander.” The speaker taunted. “Return to us. You were once our greatest asset against this world, it can be so once again.” The Elder spoke. “Okay big guy. I would love to believe you once had our best interests at heart, if only because it would make us look less stupid for ever believing you did. But everything I've seen from you convinces me that you don't give a damn! Whatever you are and whatever you hoped to do here, we don't want it. You might think of us as weak, ignorant and destructive, hell even some humans think that, but we're not and when it comes down to it, we're pretty good at proving those people wrong. Do you understand? You're beaten! We are humanity, this is our planet and You! Aren't! Welcome! Here!” Lukas shouted at them in an angry tone for what they did to him. Two Archons guarded one of the hostile Avatar’s, firing their weapons, pinning the XCOM squad down. Said Avatar reached for its Psi Amp and shot a purple beam towards the squad, creating a dimensional rift and they all cried in pain, Dinky was behind a wall out of its effect. They couldn’t move and she knew they would probably die when it would collapse. The filly breathed steady, concentrating as she reached for her own Psi Amp. “You will be safe!” She yelled as her Psionic power surrounded everyone and in a blink of an eye, they found themselves out of the rift and in flanking positions of the Avatars, having been teleported. Fletcher and James drew their pistols, killing the Archons with well-placed headshots before two of the Avatars fired at Heavy, who grunted in pain from the hits. “Can’t take much more of this!” He yelled with a pained voice. The young unicorn reacted quickly, sending a beam of Psionic power to him that healing his injuries. This action allowed him to suppress one of the Avatars, Patch used this to fire a shot, throwing it slightly back an Jane used her hook to freeze it in place then swung her blade at it, followed by a shot from Bianca, having used her suit to get on an elevated position, before the Commander’s Avatar made the finishing strike, killing the Avatar with a clean shot in the head. Fletcher fired an arrow at the second Avatar, it got also thrown back unable to teleport as it got hit by Wolf’s throwing knives and Midnight teleported next to it, slicing the Avatar with his own Blade Lena pointed at the last Avatar and her GREMLIN flew over it, releasing a shock, making the Avatar unable to move as she fired at the chest and Lukas took aim, firing at the head, killing the last avatar. “By the numbers!” Suddenly all Psionic gate started to spark and Shen warned the squad, “Without the Elders stabilizing the Psionic network, everything’s gonna haywire! That gate’s not gonna hold much longer!” “You heard her people, MOVE!” Central yelled as they made their way to it but it collapsed just as they reached it. “Shen, tell me you got a Plan B here.” She said with worry. The woman tipped on the console as suddenly the gate came back to life and she took a step back in confusion as Central said, “Nice work.” “Wasn’t anything on my end. This shouldn’t even be possible. Unless…”She mumbled and Bradford understood. “Commander, Dinky, whatever it is you’re doing, it’s working. Just make sure you save enough juice for your own trip home.” He advised as both used their powers to reactivate the gate, allowing the rest of the squad to go through it. A loud screech sounded and the connection broke, Dinky saw how the Commander held its head and laughter echoed through the room. The squad joined Central as he looked with Shen after the Stasis suit. “What the hell is happening here, Doctor?!” Bradford yelled as a purple glow came from the suit. ”It’s the Elders! They’re overwhelming our link…enveloping the Commander’s consciousness!” Tygan replied with worry. “Then server the connection!” “We do that, we risk a complete overload!” She warned. “And Dinky will be lost!” Midnight added. Dinky was thrown back by a shockwave, seeing three projections of the Elders, purple beams leading from them to the Commander. I have to help! She used her own powers to boost the Commander’s Avatar, it stood up and used its powers against the Elders as it raised its hands, a blue beam pushed the purple beam slowly back. As the blue beam reached the Alien leaders, everything exploded in a white light, overpowering Dinky’s senses.
Chapter 13 VictoryChapter 13: Victory Dinky couldn’t tell what had happened or how long she was out as her head ached, she blinked but her vision came and went, her hearing was muffled. She prayed what she had done had worked, that everyone was alright. “Vitas stabilizing. Synaptic activity returning to acceptable levels.” A voice echoed in her heard as her vision slowly cleared, finding herself in the infirmary. “And one trans-dimensional Psionic network down for the count.” A female voice added as her hearing recovered too. Once she slowly got up, the smiling face of Edward and all her friends greeted her. “D-did it work…” Her voice was weak. “Is…the Commander alright?” “A bit shaken but Tygan diagnosed a full recovery.” Midnight replied. “And to answer your question regarding the mission.” Patch reached for a data pad and pressed a button, it showed retreating ADVENT troops in a burning City Center, together with a woman with headset on a roof. “This is the Liberation Network broadcasting on all frequencies. ADVENT is in full retreat across all areas…” She said and fighting got shown, a man with headset reported, “Heavy fighting continues in the City Centers as ADVENT forces attempt to regroup…” Then a settlement with people getting care packages and another man reported, “We’re barely keeping up with the flood of refugees here as people continue to desert the ADVENT-controlled City Centers.” Then it showed a woman in front of a table with weapons on it. “To all of you still in the occupied zones – hold your ground, continue the fight. We promise you, help is on the way.” Then it ended and the filly slowly smiled. “We did it. Finally, humanity is free.” “Yes, you can finally go home.” Patch replied, “Tygan also said you can leave as soon as you wake up.” “Glad to hear it.” “Reminds me, think we keep the Psionic powers?” Wolf asked curiously and Midnight tried to flaunt his power but nothing happened no matter how strong he tried. He shrugged. “Oh well, was fun while it lasted.” “Yeah, he also mentioned the downfall of the Elders did disable all Psionic powers. He also said that Lukas’ condition could be reversed.” Dinky smiled warmly. “That’s nice to hear, you can be yourself again, Lukas.” “Yes, and I look forward too.” He replied. The filly cleared her throat, noticing it was dry. “Edward, could you bring me some water please?” “Of course.” He replied and walked out, with the former ADVENT member looking after him. “He’s such a polite and well-raised boy, it’s really a pity what happened to his mother.” “Yes, it is.” Lena started to smile. You remember how I told you we liked to be parents, Dinky?” “Yes.” Then she got it. “You want to adopt him? That’s a very nice idea.” “There you go, Dinky.” The young man walked in with a glass of water and the unicorn gladly took it. “Edward, I and Lena thought about something,” Lukas said and the boy asked, “And that is?” “You see, we always wanted to be parents, and it was really tragic what happened to your mother, she raised you well.” “You…you would like…” He mumbled, not able to believe what the man just said. The young boy blinked in confusion, then slowly grinned. “Thank you!” He gave both a hug. “Yes, Edward, we would,” Lena confirmed. “Also, Edward, you have grown on all too us, since we are family here, we would be your family too,” Patch added, sounding slightly embarrassed. “I’d love too!” Edward exclaimed and Jessie chuckled as he looked at his friend. “Remember when we talked about Patch’s relationship with Nancy and Pipsqueak?” “Yes, I do. Why do you… Wait…” Toby cut himself off as he got it and Jessie and the others laughed at this. “Like OC, like creator, eh?” Kyle asked with a smile before looking at the ponies. “I also have a special gift for you.” He took them to the crew quarters, Lily, Tygan and Bradford joined them. “Remember when I told you how I like to draw and paint? I thought I make you a goodbye gift.” He removed a canvas from something next to his bed and the ponies were amazed. It was a painting of them, the knights stood with heroic poses and their signature weapons drawn, Dinky was standing on top of Fletcher with the same pose. “I hope you like it.” Kyle sounded proud of it. Midnight looked at it with a smile. “It’s beautiful! You have really talent. Reminds me of a pony I knew with similar talents.” “Thank you.” “The transport won’t be a problem.” Fletcher lighted up his horn and the painting became smaller, fitting perfectly in his saddlebag. “Goodbye, everyone. Dinky said as she gave everyone a hug before walking back to Fletcher. “Thank you for the help. We wish you all the best for the future.” Midnight said before Fletcher cast the spell that would bring them home and they vanished in a white light. “It’s sad she’s now no longer with us, but least she’s finally home, safe and sound,” Edward said with a weak smile b before yawning. “Yes. Let’s get you to bed.” Jan replied and she walked out with him, Shen, Tygan and Central. “Well, that’s the end of that. We did it, ADVENT and the aliens are defeated. We had probably never made it so far without Dinky and the Knights.” Toby commented with a hint of pride in his voice. “Yes. I know you made her proactive in your stories but I never thought she would be that brave and go so far.” James added with surprise in his voice. “Well, I was quite fascinated myself. I guess they will have to tell a lot back in Equestria.” “Couldn’t agree more.” Jessie then sighed. “Now, that we have won, I wonder what do to. In all those years, I never thought about enjoying myself.” “Since we have finally some time for ourselves, I think we should change that and deepen our relationship.” Bianca had a smirk on her face as she looked at him, Jane did the same with Kyle, Lena just grinned at her husband who grinned in return. Both, James and Kyle had surprised expressions at this, Patch slowly backed up with an uneasy expression. “I…I think I better leave you alone.” He said and walked backwards into the doorway, only to bump into someone. Turning around, he saw himself eye to eye with his girlfriend, who smirked too. “Where do you think you’re going?” Again, Dinky woke up with an aching head, groaning as she opened her eyes and found herself with the Knight in the hospital room. In the moment she got up, her mother walked in with tears of joy, hugging her. “My little muffin, I thought I had lost you!” “I missed you too, Mommy.” The filly replied as her other family members, the princesses and her friends walked in, happy to see her. “I can’t say how glad we are to see you are okay, Dinky, we feared the worst.” Blau Streifen said with relief as the Knights groaned, waking up. “Ugh…there must be a way to ease the headaches…” Midnight mumbled as Luna walked over to him, a stallion with dark blue coat and mane next to her. “Midnight, you’re okay.” The stallion hugged him. “Sorry I wasn’t there when you went missing the last time, I was busy elsewhere back then.” “it’s okay, Supernova, I am glad to be back.” The bat pony replied as Wolf’s family, Patch and Wagensroll walked in. “White Wolf, I was so worried…” Fallingleaf hugged her daughter who returned it. “I am fine, mother and happy to see you all too.” The Pegasus replied. “Fletcher, you’re back!” Wagensroll said with a smile. “Yes, I am, Wagensroll.” “So, my loyal knights and subject, what happened?” Luna wanted to know. Midnight took a deep breath. “Well, we found ourselves in an alternative universe of Earth, having been through a lot.” “Then, allow me.” The blue Alicorn touched his forehead with her horn and once again, everyone was transparent, finding themselves in the City Center. “Wow…” Tootsie’s eyes went wide as she saw how impressive the buildings looked, smiling as Lukas and Lena found Dinky and took care of her. “That’s very nice from them.” Time Turner commented, slightly shivering as the Elders got mentioned. The children slightly trembled as they saw the Lost, with Luna and Celestia putting their wings over them. “Those poor people.” Pip said with pity. Derpy gasped as it was shown how Dinky got shot, yet relaxed and smiled weakly as she saw how the Knights patched her up. “I owe you one for saving my daughter.” The grey stallion waved a hoof. “It’s nothing, we only did what was right, what we had to do.” “Ooooooooookay then...I don't think I've never needed a cup of tea so bad.” Patch’s expression was one of confusion, blinking several times as he saw Toby explaining himself, his eyes wide, apperently lost in thought, trying to make sense of it. None of the ponies was confused of the fact of that their life here was a children cartoon, due to the Knights last adventure on Earth, where fans had helped them. “Neither did I.” Fletcher replied as the birthday party of his creator here got shown and Sparkler smiled. “It’s really wonderful how you all helped to organize it, and that he found a lover.” “Yes.” Celestia added and everyone became slightly confused as they saw how the Elders spoke with Dinky. “Doctor, how are they aware of you?” In response, the time lord took a deep breath. “Can this wait until we saw everything?” The others nodded in response before seeing how the squad made the final Assault and how Dinky helped the Commander. “Dinky…” His expression and voice was stern. “You took a very big risk.” “I know but what was I supposed to do? Only with my help were able to enter the Gate and succeed.” She explained as they were back in the hospital room. Again, her father took a deep breath. “I just don’t want to lose you, Dinky.” “Yet, it was also very brave of her.” The white mare added. “Now, why are the Elders familiar with you?” “It was a very long time ago,” The time lord started, “Back then, I discovered the Elders’ world, being a once beautiful species. But one day, they suffered from a very aggressive from of tissue degeneration and their home world was on the verge of collapse, so I helped them to escape, which they were very grateful.” He sighed. “Yet, I was shocked to see how they invaded other species to find a cure, trying to stop them and eventually, I delayed their plans.” The brown stallion started to smile weakly. “So, my dear daughter, I am proud of you. You did what I could not.” “I just couldn’t let this happen, Daddy, that they…would kill humanity, all those who did nothing wrong, or do the same to all of you.” The young unicorn replied with a weak smile, she hated it to worry her parents. “It was a great risk, Dinky, but you managed to prevent something worse from happening.” Luna sounded slightly impressed. “Now rest, you need it. And the painting of Kyle is very well made.” She added as she looked at it in awe. “Yes, it is. I am pretty sure we find a place to hang it up.” Derpy was confident of it. “Reminds me, does anypony know how this portal was created that brought us to Earth?” Midnight asked and the doctor raised a hoof. “I suspect they wanted to reach me and something went wrong, like the Commander tried to interfere while being still connected.” “Well now, Dinky, we see you later, have a good rest.” Pip said before they all left the room. Wolf then looked out of the window, watching the sunset. “Without is, they probably had never accomplished this victory. it’s something we can be proud of.” “Indeed, Wolf. This is something we all can be really proud.” Midnight agreed. Yes, it’s a great goal we achieved.” Fletcher added. “I hope they can finally live a happy ad normal life. They all earned it.” Dinky said with pride and happiness. “This is their personal victory, something they will never forget. And our victory.”
