Together Againby BronycommanderChaptersChapter 1 An unexpected eventChapter 2 Dinky’s and Ruby’s storyChapter 3 Sweetie Belle’s and Scootaloo’s storyChapter 4 Apple Bloom’s and Tiara’s storyChapter 6 Helping a friend in needChapter 7 ReunionChapter 5 Silver Spoon's, Noi's, Pinch's Tootsie's and Petunia stories and plansChapter 1 An unexpected eventChapter 1: An unexpected event Dinky was having a picnic with all her friends and family members. She already had a mother and father but she loved Johann and Nina with all her heart. “So, Hans how’s your wife?” Johann asked his friend, Hans. “Good. It’s a wonderful summer day, isn’t it?” “Indeed, it just would be nice if there would be more humans in Equestria,” Kurt said as Dinky played with Karl and Anja in the grass. They stopped as they spotted something in the sky, something they had seen before, looking like a hole. “What’s that?” Dinky was confused. A wormhole I think.” Time Turner replied, having knowledge from his adventures. “What the? HELP!” Dinky and Karl and Anja yelled as they got sucked into the wormhole. “Hold on!” Sparkler used her magic while Derpy tried to fly to them but both were stopped by an invisible force. “What’s happening?!” Nina called out as the kids were whirled around. “I have seen this before. Another universe becomes one with ours.” Dr. Whooves explained. In the Story of the Blanks universe Ruby was waking up and smiled as her sister and brother cuddled in their sleep. Mitta walked in and spoke gently, “Time to wake up.” “Good morning, mommy!” all three exclaimed happily at the sight of their mother. Julian and Mitta loved Mitta and she loved them. She liked being their mother and she loved that Helmut was their father. They weren’t in love or married but were acting like they were. Helmut was in the kitchen making pretzels. “Good morning.” “Good morning, daddy!” the kids hugged him. After breakfast, they went outside. Laura let out a sigh. “I like it here but I feel lonely sometimes being the only human girl here.” “Me too, sis.” Her brother added. “I understand but you’re free from the Regime.” Mitta pointed out. “That’s right. What is that?” Helmut pointed to something in the sky. “I don’t know. But… HELP ME MOMMY!” Ruby screamed as he and her two human siblings were sucked in. “Oh my gosh. RUBY!” Mitta reached out but it was too late. In another universe “AHH! MOMMY, DADDY HELP!” Sweetie Belle and her human friends screamed. “SWEETIE BELLE!” Rarity cried as she tried to save them but to no avail. “Oh God! What is happening to them?!” Marie was shocked. “I don’t know.” “Franz was also worried. In the Star Wars universe “MOMMY, DADDY!” Scootaloo and her human brother were scared. Rainbow Dash tried to save them but something knocked her back. “SCOOTS!” she yelled. “Sir, sensors showing a wormhole in Equestria. Two lifeforms got sucked in. It’s Scootaloo and Ray!” A crew member of the Story reported “Get a shuttle ready.” Ian had never seen something like this before. “Yes, Sir.” Ian had never seen something like this before. In yet another universe “UNCLE HELP ME!” Apple Bloom tried to hold on Konrad’s hand but the wormhole was so strong. Mia and Jacob looked in horror. In another Equestria “HELP!” Diamond Tiara and her new friends called out for help as they got sucked in. Josef and his wife along with Tiara's parents prayed that she would be safe In yet another Equestria “MAMA! PAPA!” HELP US!” Silver Spoon and Mason and Emma screamed. “NO! SILVER!” Sofia broke out in tears. In a different Equestria “DADDY!” Noi called out, Edward and his mother watched in shock as Written Script tried to safe her with his magic but his horn only made sparks. “NOI!” Carrot Top exclaimed in fear. At the same time in a different universe “MOMMY! HELP!” The young unicorn Ruby Pinch called out in terror as she got sucked in, her parents could only watch in horror, Colgate tried to use her magic but for some reason, nothing worked. “RUBY!” Her mother exclaimed in despair. Meanwhile in another Ponyville. “MOMMY! DADDY!” Tootsie and her half-sister Victoria screamed in union, their family watched horrified. “TOOTSIE! VICTORIA!” Their parents yelled at the top of their lungs. At the same time in yet a different Ponyville “MAMA! DADDY!” Petunia, Liam and Lara exclaimed terrified. “CHILDREN!” Their families called out in shock and terror, unable to help them. “Hey, look! Somethings happening!” Aiden pointed to the wormhole as he saw Silver and his children along with other kids. Dinky, her friends and the original CMC members got whirled around until they saw other human children they didn’t know. The whirring stopped. At first, they all were glad but realized that they were standing on thin air. They screamed in terror as they were falling. Scootaloo tried to use her wings but the g-forces kept her from doing so. “Hang on!” Rainbow, along with Fluttershy, Twilight and Derpy came to, their aid. Also Sparkler and Rarity used their Magic. “Thanks Mama!” Dinky hugged Derpy. Dinky let out a breath of relief. “I thought I will die!” “Shh, no more tears.” Sparkler managed to catch Karl and Anja. “Thanks, Sparkler!” They hugged her. Fluttershy managed to catch Ruby with her friends. “We owe you something.” “You owe me nothing, kids.” She could never live with herself letting a child die. Rarity got Sweetie Belle and her friend’s safety in their magic. “Thanks, sis.” Rainbow Dash flew under her sister and friends while Twilight managed to save Silver and Diamond along with the humans, Colgate, Written Script, and Lyra caught their family members, the latter unicorn caught also Petunia and her 2 friends. “Thank you, Princess Twilight.” Diamond was grateful. “Please Tiara, Twilight is just fine.” They landed. While the foals knew each other, the human children didn’t. Ruby saw Apple Bloom’s Cutie Mark. “Since when you got your Cutie Mark?” “Did I ever tell you that?” She replied. “Dinky! Karl! Anja!” their families called out. Nina scooped Dinky in her arms. “I’m so glad you’re alright!” “I was scared but mama saved me!” “Ruby! I thought I had lost you!” Mitta hugged her tightly. “Too tight! Can’t breathe!” “Oh, sorry. I just don’t want to lose you after what happened.” Helmut arrived and hugged Laura and Julian. “Isn’t that the 1946 Uniform of the German Army?” Johann asked. “Yes why’re you asking?” They were interrupted. “Sweetie Belle! Jules! Lily!” Marie called out and hugged them. “Mommy! Rarity saved us!” Franz was out of breath. “Apple Bloom!” Jacob with his wife and Konrad arrived. They were wearing their Overwatch uniforms. “Daddy, mommy, uncle!” They embraced. “Scootaloo! Ray! Are you hurt?” No mommy, we’re fine.” Ray replied. A Lambda-class T-4a shuttle landed and Ian stepped out. “Thank the Force!” “Nice armor.” Forren commented upon seeing the Overwatch uniform. “Thanks. You look great too.” Konrad replied to Forren. “Diamond Tiara! Erwin! Dora!” Josef hugged Tiara, Elsa Erwin and Dora. “Shh, it’s over.” “Silver Spoon! Mason! Emma!” Sofia and Emily called out. “Mommy!” They all embraced. “Noi! You’re okay!” Her sister and father hugged her, glad she wasn’t hurt. “Ruby!” Berry and Fran called out. “Tootsie!” Lyra and Bonbon exclaimed, happy to see the young unicorn alright. “Petunia! My little filly!” Her mother was relieved. To see her unharmed. Then, all humans looked at each other. “Well, this is awkward.” Johann said. “Let’s introduce ourselves, shall we? I’m Dinky Hooves and these are my parents Derpy and Time Turner and my sister Sparkler. These are Johann and Nina, my stepparents and my friends Karl and Anja.” Dinky smiled at them. “I’m Ruby. Those are my mother Mitta and my stepfather Helmut and my adopted siblings Julian and Laura.” “I’m Franz Klein and this is my wife Marie and our adopted children Jules and Lily. We are the stepparents of Sweetie Belle.” “I’m Scootaloo and those are my stepparents Forren and Miro and my brother Ray.” She pointed to them. “Nice to meet ya. Ah’m Apple Bloom and those are my stepparents Jacob and Mia and mah uncle Konrad.” She smiled at them. “My stepparents are Josef Becker and his wife Elsa. My friends are Silver Spoon and their children Dora and Erwin.” Tiara explained. “And my stepparents are Carl Wagner and Sofia. My friends are Mason and Emma, the children of Carl’s friend Aiden and his wife Emily.” Silver Spoon introduced them. My name is Noi, my sister Carrot Top, her friend Written Script, my stepfather Edward Smith and his mother Caroline.” The young Earth pony introduced her family. I’m Ruby Pinch, this is my mother Berry, her friend Colgate and my daddy Frank Lange.” “I’m called Tootsie Flute, this is my mother Lyra, her friend Bon-Bon, my father James Eliot, his wife Harper and their daughter Victoria and my uncle Sato Haruto.” The baby blue unicorn smiled at them. “And I’m Petunia Paleo, my parents Grant and Levine, my friend Ethan King, his wife Emily and their children Liam and Lara. And my uncles Hoang em Binh, Dung and Dang.” The paleontologist introduced her friends and family. “So, then what happened?” Ninja wondered. “I believe, Mrs. Bauer, that this wormhole connected our universes to one for some reason.” Time Turner explained, “I just don’t get it why.” “Well, we were feeling lonely being the only humans in Equestria.” Laura explained. “What a coincidence. We’re felt the same.” Anja was surprised. Same here.” Jules added. “Make that a triple.” Ray said. “Then, why we don’t tell how our human friend and parents got to Equestria?” Dinky’s stomach growled. “Why we don’t have lunch in my castle?” “Nice Idea, Twilight. Should I tell first, mama?” Dinky asked. “If you’re want, muffin.” Derpy said, knowing that Dinky had to be strong but her family and friends would be here for her. Author's Note Inspired by this story, thought it would be better for future stories. Chapter 2 Dinky’s and Ruby’s storyChapter 2: Dinky’s and Ruby’s story At the castle, Twilight got some sandwiches. Dinky did the trick B.J. showed her back then. “It all began when I practiced my magic. The teleport spell I used overloaded and I found myself in a parking lot. I was wondering where I was as I heard an explosion. I was unharmed but scared. Johann found me. He told me that I was at the London Nautica, a research building. He introduced me to his commander and friend Kurt.” He smiled at her. “The London Nautica was used to be downtown until the Germans took over.” The officer explained, causing Laura to raise her hand. “So we did win the war?” “Yes. After a small encounter with a former allied soldier named William Joseph Blazkowicz B.J. for short, I got to meet his wife Nina. They told me that they wanted to be parents but Nina was barren and taking care of me was like their dream became true.” Dinky took a bite from her sandwich. “They showed me the London Nautica and I can tell you it was fun and interesting. One day, I became sick and Karl and Anja visited me regularly and we became very good friends. Johann was part of the Luftwaffe. I was told that Wilhelm Strasse also called ‘Deathshead’ was the mastermind behind Germany’s victory. One day, his men tried to take me away but they had an accident and B.J. saved me. I learned this trick from him to calm down. I recommend it. He and his friends took care of me, but the hideout got discovered by Deathshead’s men. They took me to him a-and…” She started to tremble but Nina patted her. “Shh, let me tell it for you. Let’s just say, he did something terrible to her but my husband saved her. At the same time, Princess Celestia found her. As we wanted to be parents and we were now enemies of our state, Dinky’s family offered that we could be a part of it. Also, we managed to reserve what he did to her.” All humans showed sympathy, smiling sadly at the filly, the former ghost was rather shocked to hear this. “That reminds me of what happened to me.” Ruby took a deep breath. “My story began at my old home. I used to live in a town in the Everfree Forest called ‘Sunny Town.’ Unlike other pony’s, we had no idea what a Cutie Mark was. We only knew that there was a plague called Cutie Pox long ago.” “Ah had it once. It forced me to do the things the marks showed.” The yellow filly explained. “That’s right, Apple Bloom. I found out that my special talent was finding things. After I gained my Cutie Mark, the leader of the Town, Gray Hoof ordered my friends to- to…” Ruby was close to tears but Mitta comforted her. “You don’t have to say it, sweetheart. Let me tell it for you.” Everyone who knew Ruby already knew what she meant. “Anyway, after my daughter died, the town was cursed and we all became… zombies. They all, except for me, had only one goal: Making other ponies a part of ours to ‘protect’ them from getting their Cutie Marks.” The Human adults and children were shocked, gasping. “Ok, how?” Forren asked confused. “We don’t know and I think it is better if we don’t know.” Ruby calmed down. “For some reason, I became a ghost that could still eat and feel. I never understood how it worked. One day, I accidentally led Apple Bloom here. I managed to find an escape route for her. Then I landed in Castle Wolfenstein where Helmut found me.” “Wolfenstein?” Dinky’s stepfather asked. “Yes, Johann. He explained that it was March in 1946 and how Germany was close to victory thanks to Deathshead.” “Never thought, we were from the same universe.” Kurt was speechless. “The more you know. Helmut showed me the castle. Like Dinky, I met B.J. But this encounter resulted that the commander of Castle Wolfenstein interrogated me but Helmut saved me. He introduced me to his mother and showed me his home, Wulfsburg, where I got to know my two friends and now siblings. But then something terrible happened. After an earthquake, people that died reanimated as zombies. I read in a letter that some kind of gas was responsible for it. Again, Helmut saved me with the help of B.J. Together we fought our way through the burning city and came to the Church ruins where a dig site was. Inside, we had to fight a giant monster. After we defeated it, a friend of B.J. saved us. Then mommy found me. As Apple Bloom got help, the curse was over and I and my mother got a second chance as she was the only one who resisted against the curse. As my real father died shortly after my birth, I see Helmut as my father and live with him happily.” She smiled. “He and they became a part of my family as their parents died and Helmut lost his home, friends, and mother. He was just 18 back then.” “I heard what happened there back then. My condolences.” Johann had sympathy, looking sad at the young man, who waved a hand. “It’s alright, Johann.” “Well, who should tell next?” Ray asked. “I would like to tell my story.” Sweetie Belle offered. “Wait a second. How did you get your Cutie Marks?” Ruby asked her friend. “Simple, Ruby. We found out that our special talent is to help other ponies. And with yours, we will find those ponies.” “Oh stop it, Apple Bloom.” Ruby blushed. “Well, the beginning of my story is similar to Dinky’s.” Sweetie Belle took a bite and smiled and Franz and Marie. She had their support and she loved them with all her heart. Chapter 3 Sweetie Belle’s and Scootaloo’s storyChapter 3: Sweetie Belle’s and Scootaloo’s story “Similar to Dinky, I practiced my magic and landed near an alley. I hide there when I heard an explosion. Franz found me and took me to his home. He lived together with Marie who had lost her Husband and son when the Invasion of France started. I landed in Paris in 1941. They showed me Paris. I will never forget the view from the Eifel Tower.” She smiled at the memory. “On the way home, we met Jules and Lilly; we became very good friends like every other friend they had been taken by the Gestapo, the secret police in Paris. The next day, made had a picnic on the countryside and found a tank from WW1. But as we walked home, a firing squad almost e-executed us.” Rarity gave her a hug to calm her down as she started to tremble. “Thanks, sis. Anyway, the Saboteur, a man who was fighting against the Germans saved us. Franz and Marie were like parents to me and I called them Mommy and Daddy.” “You’re not the only one.” Scoots commented. “I know Scootaloo. The next day, Lilly and Jules visited us, to make me feel better. I went shopping with Franz as a Sniper nest next to us collapsed. We were unharmed but a soldier wanted to shoot me. Again, the Saboteur saved me. He took me to a resistance base where I stayed for the night. He also told me his name. Sean Delvin. A woman named Clara wanted to bring me home but Gestapo agents stopped us. The Chief of Public Security interrogated me and t-threated to t-torture me if I would not give him information’s.” Marie comforted her. “Let me tell the rest sweetheart.” The filly nodded. “We were worried sick. While I was waiting for them, a Gestapo general wanted to marry me. He said that he would deport my friends if I would refuse. Sean along with Franz saved me from this. Sweetie returned safe and sound to us a few days later. Nevertheless, the Gestapo didn’t leave her alone. They forced her to work as Collaborator.” “WHAT?!” the other children exclaimed. Marie stroked her Mane. “I know, sounds horrible. We took shelter in the resistance base as Germans troops attacked. Franz covered our escape, but Terror soldiers caught us.” “Terror soldiers?” Josef asked confused. “A Special Forces unit. They made a bloody reputation on the Eastern front.” Franz explained to Josef. “They sentenced us to death but again, Sean helped us out. He brought us to the Belle, a nice place if you want to drink something or listening to music. We didn’t know that it was also a resistance base. As we thought we were safe, it was raided. Ironically, Sweetie Belle’s cooperation was our salvation as they spared us but Lily’s and Jules’s parents died in the crossfire. After the raid, an uprising started and the Chief went insane. He died as Sean and Franz confronted him. I took care of Jules and Lilly as their parents wanted so should something happen to them. We went to Equestria with Sweetie Belle and married and couldn’t be any happier with him. Here, we are free from brutal SS-soldiers, agents and Terror troops.” Marie and Franz kissed while Jules and his sister smiled. “We love you!” they said. “Nice to hear. Do you want to tell your story sister?” Ray asked, smiling at Franz and Marie. “Why not?” Scootaloo cleared her throat. “Unlike the others, I landed not on earth but another planet. The reason was that I got hit by a magic blast from Sweetie Belle when she was sick. And it wasn’t your fault, but an accident.” Scootaloo said as Sweetie Belle’s expression went guilty. “Founding myself in a forest, I stepped on a net trap. Before the hunters could do anything to me, Forren and his friend Tokrin arrived and helped me.” “Strange names.” Aiden’s and Emily’s son commented “That’s because we’re from another galaxy.” Ian explained to Mason. “Where was I? Oh, right. They took me to their base and told me that they were soldiers of the Galactic Empire.” Galactic Empire? Sounds like you landed in the Star Wars universe. Those were several movies, the first came out 1977.” The former security guard pointed out “Interesting,” Forren replied to Jacob. “Tokrin gave me a ride on his speeder bike and it was very nice. Back at the base, a shuttle brought us to the Stormy, an Imperial I-class Star Destroyer.” “That giant ship we saw in the sky?” The Aiden’s wife asked as it was visible in the sky when it was clear. “Correct, Emily. He flew to Coruscant, the Headquarters of the Empire and former home of Forren’s family. He introduced Miro and Ray to me and they showed me the city. I will never forget how great and beautiful it was. They even made a plushie of my father.” She smiled. “Ian, the captain of the Stormy had the idea of sending out probes to find my home. But Lord Vader arrived before we were able to implement the plan into action. I was scared but he was very polite. The Stormy then got order to assist Imperial forces at Abridon. As I said goodbye to Forren, a turbulence caused me to fall into the shuttle. Our shuttle was shot down but I was unharmed. I waited at the Imperial base and despite their ideology against nonhuman-lifeforms; the troopers were nice to me. As Forren returned, we came across a dead rebel trooper. He only played dead and… s-shot me.” All humans gasped as Forren patted her. “She had to spend two weeks in a bacta-tank,” Forren continued. “After she was stable, I got a message that my family died in an accident. My goal was from here was to get Scootaloo home. At the same time, the probe droids were sent out. After a few days, we were called to assist Imperials at Trasse. As we moved into the hanger, a Rebel transport landed in the hanger. The rebels thought we were holding her as prisoner or slave. They got her but the transport was disabled and crashed into the asteroid. I was part of the rescue team. She was unharmed as Kevin; a young rebel trooper saved her.” He smiled at Kevin. “But we got captured. Before they could evacuate, Imperial troop’s surprised and captured them. Lord Vader had closed her into his heart and pardoned us. We even had his full support. For some Reason, pirates found out about her and kidnapped her. They held her for ransom but we saved her. It got worse. Admiral Zaarin, a traitor also knew about her and tricked us. “They tortured her and even…” he took a deep breath, “Cut off her wing.” Again, everyone gasped. “You poor child!” Emily couldn’t believe what she just heard. “Don’t worry Mrs. Brown, I came over it and we replaced my lost wing. See?” Scootaloo showed her prosthetic wing. “After I replaced it, we celebrated. It was Ian’s Idea to cheer me up. Also, Ray and Miro accompanied us after I was saved as the message was a fake. After a few days, one probe droid had success. What none of us knew was that the Rebels had a secret base on Equestria. As result, the Stormy got into a heavy fight with them at home. After they found out that the Imperials weren’t here for the base and meant no harm to me, they evacuated the base as a retaliation strike by Lord Vader followed. All Imperials wanted to stay and he accepted that. Forren’s family is a part of my family and Ray my brother. The Stormy stayed in orbit to defend it from any intruders and they all lived happily ever since, right?” “Right, sis!” Ray said causing Rainbow to smile. “Mommy, can Ah tell our story next?” Apple Bloom smiled at Mia. “Of course but I think it is better if we start first.” Apple Bloom’s stepfather said, she smiled at him. “Go ahead, daddy.” Jacob tried to remain calm as he remembered the horrors in Black Mesa and City 17. Chapter 4 Apple Bloom’s and Tiara’s storyChapter 4: Apple Bloom’s and Tiara’s story “Before we came to Equestria, I and my wife worked at Black Mesa, a research facility which was originally a test silo for ICBMs built in 1950 in the cold war. On 16th May somewhere between 2000 and 2009, I can’t remember exactly, an experiment went wrong causing a Resonance Cascade.” Karl raised his hand. “What’s that?” “I’m no scientist but Gordon, a friend of mine, told me that it is a cataclysmic quantum event. He also told me once that every object has a set resonance. When studied, the object will resonate even more, and sometimes even rapidly. If the object resonates too much, it can open dimensional rifts and portals. I was a security guard back then and my wife an office worker. The experiment opened rifts and portals to Xen, an alien world, so Black Mesa was invaded by Aliens. I fought my way to the offices with Gordon to save my wife. We heard that troops were coming in to save us.” Konrad continued for him. “Yeah. We arrived in the evening. I was a Corporal back then. I was part of Special Forces of US Marines called the Hazardous Environment Combat Unit, HECU for short. Unknown to the personnel, we weren’t here to rescue them, but to eliminate the aliens and to eliminate Black Mesa's civilian personnel to ensure that the incident is covered up. Many Marines disagreed with their orders. I was one of those Marines.” “Who would order such a terrible thing?” Emily was shocked. “I don’t know. We even didn’t know why were sent in, only to cover up the incident. Lucky for me, I got orders to rescue those who had nothing to do with the experiment. Orders were to execute anyone with knowledge of the research project that went awry. As I moved in, I found Apple Bloom. It turned out that the experiment also opened portals to Equestria causing her to land here. I closed her in my heart and I protected her until we met Jacob and Mia.” He smiled warmly at Apple Bloom who finished her sandwich. “We teamed up to get out of there alive. I and Apple Bloom got separated from them. We were trapped in a room that filled slowly with toxic waste but in the last moment, a man in a suit saved us. We teamed up with Gordon who was accidentally responsible for it. As he killed many Marines, he became their priority target and they deployed a great hate for him. I did not as he was only defending himself. We rejoined my buddies and the Johnsons after Gordon went a separate way. We rested for the night. Apple Bloom deployed a daughter-parent relationship with Jacob and Mia as they wanted to be parents after his shift was over. The HECU's initial foray into Black Mesa was highly successful: the Marines quickly gained an advantage over the confused and frightened survivors and aliens and established a substantial presence within the facility. Black Mesa's civilian personnel failed to put up any notable resistance, as many personnel mistakenly believed that the Marines were there to rescue them, and those who tried to defend the facility against the HECU were hopelessly outgunned and overwhelmingly outnumbered, having already been weakened by the Xen creatures. The HECU soon took control of Black Mesa's central command areas and issued orders over the public address system for the facility's remaining personnel to cooperate and submit to interrogation. I saw many dead marines on the way to them. The tide soon turned against the HECU, though, as the Xen aliens continued teleporting into Black Mesa in overwhelming numbers. My squad leader confirmed it to me the next day. It became a warzone. Tanks and helicopters were called in but it was not enough. The battle turned in favor of the Aliens. Orders came in to retreat to rally- and evacuations points and to pull out, while airstrikes and heavy artillery covered the retreat. We all managed to reach an Osprey and evacuated. But it was shot down. I survived seriously wounded along with my squad, Apple Bloom, Mia, and Jacob. All others died in the crash. We were all unconscious until Freeman caught up to us and saved Apple Bloom from a terrible fate.” She trembled but Mia hugged her. “We found out that the evacuation was woefully incomplete, however, leaving many Marines behind in the facility in the unenviable position of being caught amongst the aliens and a new enemy, the Black Ops. After the initial failure of the HECU's clean-up operation, the Black Ops were sent to cover up the whole incident by destroying the entire facility by detonating a thermonuclear device. They had order to kill anything, human or otherwise, that stand in their way. But we made it to the North entrance after fighting the Black Ops. As we were about to leave, the man in the suit showed up again and helped Apple Bloom to get home. Gordon went to the Lambda Complex to close the portal. ” “Sounds like you have been through a nightmare.” Elsa couldn’t believe it. “This operation had nothing to do with Semper Fi. It was FUBAR from the beginning if not way behind. Anyway, the consequences of the Black Mesa Incident were massive. Gordon managed to close the portal but it caused Portal Storms. They create a multitude of portals to other dimensions. The Combine, an immense inter-dimensional empire, got interested in it and took over earth in 7 hours. Survived military personnel were turned into their soldiers with brainwashing, including me. Anyone who was not worth it was killed or turned into a drone, to put it mildly. “Also, the Combine deployed a Suppression Field, which prevented human procreation. Dr. Breen, the former Administrator of Black Mesa, negotiated a surrender and became the Administrator of Earth. As the USA was almost destroyed, citizens were relocated to Europe.” Mia continued while patting her daughter. “I and Jacob got relocated to City 17. A city in Eastern Europe which name I can’t remember. Citizens were granted the minimum of what they needed to survive, such as a standardized diet and home. The Combine founded Civil Protection, their police forces. Jacob joined them as we got better meals, a better home, and life. 20 years passed when we met Apple Bloom again, while in Equestria, only 2 months passed.” “The more you know,” Aiden commented. It turned out, that a malfunctioning teleport from Dr. Kleiner, also a survivor of Black Mesa, teleported her here when she was sleeping. My husband found her and brought her home. He introduced her to Barney Calhoun, also a former security guard and member of Civil Protection. After that, CP’s found her and took her away but Kleiner's teleport had again a malfunction, saving her. Gordon found her as he heard for Black Mesa East, a resistance base. On the way, Jacob joined them.” “How did Gordon return?” Ian asked curiously. “That man in the suit offered him a job and put him into stasis, saying that he was the right man in the wrong place. Gordon told me that he had to travel to foot as Kleiner’s pet interrupted the teleport.” “Creepy.” Ruby finished her meal. Jacob told his part. “At Black Mesa East, we met Eli Vance, his daughter Alyx and Dr. Judith Mossman who were also survivors of Black Mesa. Alyx showed us a weapon invented by the resistance as the Combine attacked. We got separated from Alyx and had to fight our way through Ravenholm. It was a former mining town and later, a Resistance stronghold located in the Wasteland. It was previously inhabited by refugees who escaped from the Combine-controlled City 17 to join the resistance. The Combine discovered years ago and… let’s just say it suffered a similar fate as Sunny Town.” Mitta saw the fear in Ruby’s eyes and hugged her as Jacob told the rest, his voice steady, but uncomfortable. “With the help of Father Grigori, the priest of the town, we got outside and to a resistance base called ‘Shorepoint Base.’ Alyx told via radio that her father got captured and brought to Nova Prospekt, an old run-down prison that was, according to Alyx, transformed into ‘something much worse’ by the Combine. Gordon letf with a buggy while we stayed and rested.” “The Combine attacked the base. I was one of the soldiers who led the attack. During the fight, I got hit in the head. It didn’t kill me but I suffered a head injury. Overwatch Soldiers also known as Combine Soldiers by Citizens have no previous memories of their human life and that they are incapable of resisting, disobeying orders, and going rogue. Yet, that injury caused some memories to come back.” Konrad explained. “They didn’t hurt you, have they?” Ruby asked with worry about her friend. “No, they didn’t hurt me. Breen was very nice to me and sent me home. At the same time, Freeman destroyed Nova Prospekt, starting an Uprising.” “Shortly after it started, I was sent in with an Elite Soldier who was about to kill her, but when I saw her drawing, I remembered who I really was and saved her. We made our way to Kleiner's lab. They stayed while I was fighting on the streets.” The former Marine finished his part, so Mia could tell her part of the story. “A week passed. I was trained as a medic. Gordon and Alyx returned. The teleport was very slow but for Gordon and Alyx it was like a few seconds. Mossman betrayed them and brought Eli to Breen. Alyx wanted to bring Kleiner and Apple Bloom to a safer place but Kleiner refused until he found his pet. Apple Bloom saw it and chased it outside. With no other option left, we protected her as we were joining the fighting resistance fighters to meet up with Konrad. As Gordon went a separate way, the Combine overwhelmed and captured us. As Gordon arrived, Mossman freed us as she was a triple agent and Breen was about to kill Alyx and Eli. While Eli and Mossman left, we hunted Breen down. Gordon and Konrad destroyed the teleport he was about to use. This, however, destabilized the structure of the whole building. I can’t remember what happened after the explosion, only that I, my husband, Gordon, and Alyx were outside while Konrad and Apple Bloom were still inside. Dr. Kleiner told us that the core of the Citadel was close to collapse and that the explosion could be large enough to level the whole of City 17, and that the only possible way to survive would be to re-enter the Citadel and slow the core's progression toward meltdown. So we went inside to save our friend and daughter and to stabilize the core. For some reason, the Combine tried to blow the core. Also, Alyx downloaded a message from Mossman. We also met the leaders of the Combine. They’re called ‘Combine Advisors.”’ “Creepy,” Lilly commented, shivering only at the name of it. “Yes, it was. We even met the drones face to face. The Combine hunted us for the data Alyx took, but we managed to get on a train and escaped. Unfortunately, the train derailed, forcing us to go on foot. After fighting through dark, deserted, underground parking garages and tunnels, we got to the surface. We saw a looping message from Dr. Kleiner that the destruction of the core damaged the reactors in any other Citadel. That meant that the Combine were cut off and the Suppression field was shut down. We fought our way to a resistance outpost. On the way, we learned that the data was very important but I, my husband, Apple Bloom, and Konrad were free to go. Barney told us that he and other survivors were preparing to move to a train station in order to escape City 17. We took another way and moved through a derelict hospital to draw the remaining Combine forces away from the refugees. The Combine Soldiers were only focused on Gordon and Alyx ignoring us almost completely. When we reached the train station, Konrad and Gordon escorted the other refugees. After that was done, Konrad boarded with us the train while Alyx and Gordon stayed behind to lure the Combine away from us. Exhausted, we fell asleep in the train. While we were sleeping, Princess Celestia and Luna found her and teleported us to Equestria. As Apple Bloom’s family offered us to be a part of it, we accepted. Celestia even found a spell that made us younger again so we can enjoy every minute.” Mia hugged her daughter tightly. “Sounds like you have been through a lot. I had difficulties not to break down when I met Josef.” Tiara explained, taking a deep breath. “As you know I was the school bully. After I changed, a colt named Night Star became the new bully. After an argument, he fired a spell at me. I found myself near a destroyed building. I hide in it after I heard an explosion.” Josef patted her. “Let me tell it for you, okay?” He asked, she nodded. “Unlike in Helmut’s and Johann’s universe, Germany was close to defeat. In April 1945, the reds were close to Berlin. The defeat was inevitable, but surrendering was not an option for the Führer. He ordered to defend Berlin to the last man and bullet. I was just 20 back then. Similar to Jacob and Mia, I and my wife wanted to be parents but we decided to wait until the war was over. She tried to get out of Berlin. “When I found Tiara, I promised to get her out of this warzone, as I cared for children. We decided to go to the Tiergarten Flak tower but our convoy was ambushed. I escaped with her and stayed the night at a V2-Rocket Facility. We were awoken by sirens and explosion as the Facility was about to blow. We barely escaped with our lives. We passed out and came to in the Kaiser-Friedrich Museum. A soldier brought us here and explained that Berlin wasn’t a ghost town anymore. The Reds had broken through our lines. I patrolled through the Museum as an intruder held me at gunpoint. It was the Desert Ghost, a famous Allied sniper known for his work in Africa. He spared me and said I should head west and to go when he detonated the bridge as the reds came. However, we were stopped by a fanatical officer. He brought us to the Opernplatz for immediate execution. For desertion. The Sniper saved us. His name was Karl. Together with another man, we fought our way to the library where the shot came. As we reached it, we noticed that the man was bleeding. We had no time as the Russians came. I helped Karl to hold them off. We were successful but the man died. But he managed to say one word: Tabun.” “What’s that?” Lilly asked curiously. “I’ll come to that later. After we left we arrived in the evening at the Flak tower where we met Elsa and her kids.” They smiled at him. “Here, Tiara told me about Night Star. Elsa’s husband died in the battle of Stalingrad. Also, I got a message that my wife had not made it. As I realized that Tiara was everything I had left, I swore that I will get her home safe and sound or die. For some reason, an alarm went off. As we evacuated, the Russians took us prisoner. They took us to their command post in Karlshorst. A young Russian named Chernov had compassion with us. He told me that his comrades were cold-blooded. Chernov was a pacifist by nature just like me. He stepped in as the Commissar wanted to kill her. Again, Karl saved us. He found a paper that exclaimed what Tabun was.” “And what?” Ian asked. “Tabun is a nerve agent. Powerful and lethal. Breathe it, touch it, even look at it and your body shut down in all sorts of gruesome ways. A chemical weapon specialist named Wolff had a plan. His plan was to fill with the Russians the last of Germany’s V2 rockets with the stuff. Their target was London. The Reds would make it like Germany’s final revenge. I don’t know if he was able to stop them.” “Makes me wonder if their high command knew about it,” Ford commented, not able to believe that the Reds would do something like this. “Maybe Konrad, maybe not. After that, I and Tiara went to Kreuzberg where I used to live. When we arrived, the Battle of Berlin was at its height. There were Close quarters on every street, snipers on every rooftop and tanks on every bridge and square. Before we could react, the Reds attacked. She was shot in the gut but with the help of a medic, I was able to safe her. As it couldn’t get any worse, a rocket barrage was aimed where we were, but we escaped into the metro. While we were inside, the metro was flooded. Even this time we survived. We were on a truck that was en route to Köpenick. As we arrived, the Reds attacked, catching us by surprise. They gunned everyone down without mercy. We survived thanks to Princess Celestia. But we were unconscious. The shock and Combat stress we all suffered caused us to have a very intensive nightmare. It was similar to what you and Ruby had experienced, Helmut. As Elsa was similar to my wife and me to her husband, we married and lived happily ever since, right, children?” “Yes, daddy!” They hugged him. “We stayed here as we knew how difficult the post-war years would be.” “Well, that leaves only us.” Silver Spoon started. “My story is similar to Tiara’s but I didn’t land in a warzone.” She also took a deep breath. Chapter 6 Helping a friend in needChapter 6: Helping a friend in need She woke up in the morning. Spike was about to walk in but she managed to hide the plushie versions. “Twilight, I heard you crying, are you alright?” He asked with concern. “Everything is alright.” She said, hiding her sadness. “If you say so.” He left, not bother to think about it. The young princess had head buried within her forehooves and shook with light sobs and cried herself to sleep again. It was noon when the others returned from the tour. “That was fun and interesting!” Dinky hopped up and down. “Yes, it was. Hey Spike, what’s up?” Johann asked. “I’m good but I’m worried about Twilight. After you all left, I heard her crying her heart out for some reason. I tried to talk to her, but she refuses to tell me.” He told with a concerned expression. “Nothing the Element of Laugher can fix!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. “Ah like your optimism, Pinkie, but when even she refuses to talk with Spike who is as close to her as we, Ah don’t think we have a chance.” Applejack realized. “Maybe, Princess Celestia can help us? Something tells me that can help with that.” Dinky suggested, her horn glowing like a bulb. “Good idea, Dinky. As Twilight would say: ‘Spike, take a note.’” Rarity said to him. “As you wish my princess.” They all knew about his crush on her. Blushing lightly, she started to dictate. “Dear Princess Celestia, After the incident yesterday, Twilight acts sad and depressive. She refuses to talk with any of us and we are worried about her. If it’s alright with you princess, we want to talk with you about the reason why Twilights acts like this so suddenly. Sincerely your subjects, Mane six, CMC and Humans.” “Send it.” The former HECU member ordered. “Yes, Corporal!” With a quick breath of Spike, the message vanished in his green flames. Princess Celestia was with her sister on the balcony enjoyed some tea and the fresh air. “I can’t explain how this wormhole opened, even Discord, but our young human subjects can have fun together.” Luna smiled, happy for them. I knew Lulu. I’m happy that they have each other. New friendships can be made.” Celestia smiled as a scroll appeared on the table almost landing in her cup of tea. She read the scroll. Luna noticed that her sister’s expression became sad and guilty. “What’s wrong Tia?” The princess of the night asked with concern. Celestia took a deep breath. “It’s something personal. Something I now wish I had never done.” She was about to cry as Luna hugged her. “Shh, Tia. I told you already, I forgive for what happened 1000 years ago.” She wiped a tear out of her sister’s eye. “It’s not that. This happened before your return when Twilight was still a filly…” After Celestia told her younger sister what happened back there, Luna asked, “Why couldn’t they stay as our human citizens could stay here?” Celestia sniffed. “Well Luna, unlike now, the ponies weren’t ready for this back then as they are today. I thought I could prevent Twilight from having the same feeling I had when I lost you, but I only have achieved the contrary.” “Shh, don’t blame yourself. What about I get her parents and brother while you inform them?” “Good Idea, sister.” Celestia smiled weakly as Luna left. Twilight’s friends were waiting as Spike burped a scroll out. “That was quick.” Rainbow commented. Spike read it aloud. “My dear subjects, I will arrive in a quarter of an hour with Twilight’s parents and brother and my niece as the reason is very personal. I can understand your concern for her. Princess Celestia” “Well, let’s prepare for her arrival.” Forren had much experience thanks to Lord Vader. Later, as Princess Celestia arrived, the soldiers saluted while the other bowed. Even Ian and Tokrin were here. “Welcome your Highness!” The soldiers said together. “At ease and rise.” At a table, Fluttershy asked, “What’s wrong with Twilight? That isn’t her.” The shy Pegasus had never seen her friend like this before. “Let me tell it this way: It happened when she was just a filly and it was similar to your stories, children. I knew it would come one day. That’s why I brought her parents, her brother, and niece with me. It’s a very long story.” Velvet started to tell, “One day, my daughter was using a spell. It went out of control and she… vanished!” It wasn’t surprising for the others. “We were worried sick but luckily, a human named James found her and took care of her. He had lost his family in the war and was overjoyed when he took care of her. However, a young boy kidnapped her and wanted to give her to the Russians. James sacrificed his life to save her.” Everyone gasped. “At least he’s reunited with those he loved. When did that happened and where?” Josef asked curious. “It was in 1960 where Germany lost the war like in the universe you’re come from. We managed to save his life. We’d liked it if he stayed in Equestria like you but Equestria wasn’t ready for this back then.” Celestia explained. “Can we bring him here?” Nina asked. “That’s the problem. Only a few years passed here but were James lives, 54 years passed.” All had their mouths wide open. “So, he’s deceased?” The dragon asked with worry. “No Spike. He’s still alive. But that’s difficult to explain, so I brought Luna to show it to you, ok?” “Yes, your Highness.” They all said, ready to see the background. “Ok, close your eyes.” Both Princesses combined their magic and everyone vanished in a white light. Chapter 7 ReunionChapter 7: Reunion As everyone opened their eyes, they found themselves in what appeared to be Canterlot, being transparent. “Alright, Smarty Pants, let’s do this!” The voice of a young filly tore them out, seeing Twilight in her filly years with her doll in the garden. “Ahh, isn’t she cute?” Fluttershy asked with a smile. “Yep! As cute as a Pie! ” Pinkie Pie agreed. The purple unicorn started to lit up her horn and it glowed a white light, becoming stronger and stronger and her expression from determined to worried. “What? No! It isn’t supposed to do that! Stop!” The filly yelled before the light engulfed her and the doll and they vanished. The scene vanished to the filly lying unconscious in an alley, gasping as she woke up, looking frantically around. “Where am I? Daddy? Mommy? Brother?” Twilight called out before it started to rain. After a few minutes, she started to cry, her eyes slowly becoming red “Mommy…Daddy...” Then suddenly a male voice called out, “Hello, is there someone?” The filly didn’t respond to it, completely lost in her confusion. A man wearing a blue suit and red tie walked into the ally, having a round face, with a slightly muscular build, his hair was blond and his eyes blue. Frank looked at the man in surprise. “I know that man…that’s James! We served together in the Africa Corps!” “The apple does not fall far from the tree,” Jacobs commented. The moment Twilight saw the man, she started to panic, shaking in fear. “ple-ple, please don’t hurt me…” It was understandable, she had never seen a human before. James’ expression changed to sympathy and he kneeled down. “I won’t hurt you, it’s raining and you are freezing, come with me sweetheart, you can sleep at my house.” He spoke with a calming voice. A loud thunder came before Twilight could answer, causing her to startle and cry harder. “Shh, its okay, I’m here for you.” The man spoke in a comforting voice. “But Sir, I don’t want to get your Suit wet.” The filly replied, shivering from the cold. “My Suit? It’s only water it dries anyway. I don’t want that you get a cold, your safety is more important to me than my Suit.” He gave her a comforting smile and gently picked her up. “That is a nice act from him,” Fluttershy said with pride. “Yes, he was known for his caring towards children and I highly respected him for that, feeling honored to know him,” Frank commented as they saw how the German brought the filly to his house, dried her and made her some warm food and drink, which she enjoyed. Then they both introduced each other, with the unicorn telling about Equestria and James about his past. “Yes I’m a veteran, Twilight. I served in two World Wars. The First World War, also known the Great War, started 1914. I was a Medic but was deployed as a sniper later in the war. He pointed to a picture that showed him in an Imperial German Army uniform with his rifle. “I did never leave a comrade behind and for that, I earned great respect and my first award the iron cross. It was given to Soldiers with great braveness. But I lost it when I tried to save a friend”. Then he pointed to a second picture what was a group photo of him and his comrades. “In the War when I was wounded, I met my future wife,” The third picture showed their wedding, “We married after the war was over in 1918. Germany lost the War but is not really true.” Twilight said, “Yes, I read that Germany was forced to sign a contract.” “Yes, that’s right the contract of Versailles. The post-war Years were difficult because of the economic problems in 1923 and 1929 but my wife and me managed to get over it. 1939 the Second World War started. This time, I was a pilot. A Stuka pilot to be exact.” A fourth picture showed him in pilot uniform, “In the Time between 1939 and 1941, I earned the Iron cross again. I was wounded again in 1943 and was sent home. My Wife had wonderful News: She was Pregnant!” Twilight had a big smile on her face when she heard this. “Our Son was born in September 1943.” The fifth Picture showed his wife, their newborn Son in his wife’s arms and him, this time in a Heer Uniform instead of a Luftwaffe uniform. The sixth and last picture was again a group photo. “Jessie, I don’t want to interrupt you but why are you wearing a different uniform on the last two pictures?” Twilight asked confused. “Did nothing stand in your book that the Luftwaffe was defeated?” He asked her. “Oh yes, I totally forget this.” was her answer. “Because of this, I was in the Heer again where I earned the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. Only the best and braves Soldiers could earn this award. It was also one of the highest awards you could get, back in the Third Reich. The last War year, 1945 was the worst year I had ever in my entire Life.” He said with a sad tone. “What happened, Jessie?” asked Twilight with an innocent Voice that only a Child could have and he took a deep breath, trying not to break down. “My family died.” "I’m so sorry Jessie, please, please, don’t hate me," Twilight begged with a guilty tone in her Voice close to crying. With a weak smile he looked at the filly. “Twilight,” He said while petting her Mane, “Why should I hate you, you couldn’t knew that.” The children gasped upon hearing this. “That’s so sad…” Pinch said with a look of sympathy. “Yes. I knew his wife, she was a friendly woman, always wanting to help others in need. And it’s a pity about their son too.” Frank also sounded sad about it. “I heard about Würzburg back then, it was really horrible. We both know his pain, Frank.” Josef reminded him. “Yeah.” They then saw how James explained his name. “And my Name? Well Twilight, I was born in the USA My Mother was German and a Nurse. My Father was a Soldier and American. He named me after the famous Cowboy Jesse James. He was famous for drawing his revolver faster than everybody else. I was also famous for drawing my sidearm very fast when I had to. That’s also how I get my nickname. I had also a little Brother called John but he was reported missing in World War 1. He was never found.” Twilight had a fascinated look on her Face but it changed to a sad expression He mentioned his brother. “Twilight you don’t have to be…” "No it’s not that, I just miss my brother.” She replied sobbing. “Shh, I’m sure your family will find you, Twilight.” He gave her a smile ”Rel- Really?” She asked between sobs. “Of course. And until then, you can stay with me, no matter how long it’s going to take.” “But I do not want to cause you any problems.” She spoke to him with concern. “Twilight, you could not survive on your own. Plus after 15 Years of living alone, I would be glad about having some company.” She hugged him after he said this. “Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, James!” She cried out happily. The three Vietnamese brothers looked at each other as this reminded them when they had been separated. The group watched with smiles as Jessie and Twilight chatted about their cultures before the man brought the filly to bed. “His caring for her honors him.” Sato sounded proud. “Yes, it does.” Shining Armor replied with a smile. The next memory showed how Jessie comforted Twilight after she had a nightmare, followed by showing her the town and enjoying some ice cream after she had slipped and overstretched her knee. Then her caretaker told her why he still looked so long for a man born in 1895. “Well Twilight, it’s difficult to explain but I try my best. I was born in 1895. In 1916 when I was 21, I had an accident with Poison gas. I survived but for some reason, I couldn’t age anymore. I suspected that the Gas had changed my DNA. I was also able to take more punishment than a normal human could ever take. If I’m hurt, the wound heals as fast as it would regenerate. I can’t explain it how it works.” The filly was speechless with her mouth wide open. “That-That is amazing!” “I have seen many things in my medical career but that is new to me.” Helping Heart was fascinated to hear this. “It was even for me when I was told,” Celestia added as the memory continued. The five friends of Twilight watched in confusion as the filly befriend two boys that were the sons of two friends of James. “I thought Twilight never had other friends before than us.” Rarity wondered. “Well, actually, she did, with me, Lemon Hearts, Twinkle Shine, and Moon Dancer.” Colgate pointed out, “Though I suppose she did become friends with them to learn more about humanity and to get over the homesickness.” “Could be.” They gasped in shock to see that the young unicorn got pushed into the mud by a boy with untidy hair, broken glasses and a brow that looked perpetually sweaty. “So the little freak and his useless friends cry for help like the little babies you are,” He said taunting. Twilight couldn’t say anything, because anytime she tried, the Boy pushed her into the mud. “Let me get this jerk!” Rainbow yelled in anger but the orange mare had grabbed her tail. “Calm down, it’s in the past, we can’t do anything.” They all nodded as the man warned the boy to let her go, only for the latter to trying to brawl with him, being fully overconfident, getting quickly defeated by James. “He still got it.” Frank was impressed. “Poor Twilight though.” Fluttershy watched with sadness as the filly cried, her was fur dirty and she had multiple scratches and bruises. Yet, the Pegasus smiled weakly as the humans took care of her. It was surprising for the group that Günther’s friends quickly promised to help Twilight in any way they could after being told of her origin. “They are very loyal friends.” The blue Pegasus was fascinated. “Yes, they are. I could tell back then that Twilight had been safe with them.” Celestia said with a smile of her own. The group smiled as they all saw how Twilight quickly recovered and played with her friends before her family and Celestia arrived. “I wonder, sister, why did you choose to watch his past instead of getting Twilight home right away?” Luba asked confused, tilting her head. “I admit I was curious and it sounded interesting.” The White Alicorn replied. Everyone was amazed as they saw everything, yet the parents covered the eyes of their children as the gas accident happened, with James coughing and vomiting as the gas surrounded him, his eyes watering. “That must have been horrible…”Miro said with pity and shock. “Yeah. Frankly, I wonder that becoming ageless didn’t affect his sanity.” Becker was fascinated. “I guess it was his love to his wife that kept him sane, though I never got to ask him about it,” Lange said, having to smile as he saw how his friend was becoming a father. Then they saw the day before the death of his family. “They need more Personnel in the hospital in Würzburg. I was ordered to help out for a while. Since you are back on the front in a few days, I have no choice but to take John with me. But on the bright Side, I can visit some friends over there.” His wife informed him. “I know Lena. Just be careful, I don’t want to lose you too. Hans is in captivity of the Western forces, Müller is presumed dead and Richthofen was sent to the Eastern front.” He replied with “Don’t worry about me; Würzburg isn’t as important for the industry as Dresden or Augsburg.” She kissed him “Goodbye, my love.” He called out as his wife and son walked away. Then they saw how the town was bombarded the next day, with James watching from a distance, having a worried expression. “There’s nothing we can do. We can only hope and pray that your family will survive this.” An elderly man said to him, being a member of the Volkssturm. In the aftermath, James looked after his family, walking through the debris, a scared expression on his face. Upon reaching the hospital, he stopped and stared. It was completely destroyed. A corpse of a Nurse who was holding a baby in her arms was in the debris. James collapsed on his knees and cried. Dinky sniffed. “Those poor people…” Celestia let an own tear escape as she said, Yes. It broke him. But still, he tried to save the life of others, as like you, Josef, he fought in the battle of Berlin.” “He did?” Becker asked surprised as the memory continued, seeing that Günther had exactly the same conversation as he had with a fellow soldier before finding Diamond Tiara. He then helped a desperate mother to get their babies out of the city. And I thought I’ve been through hell…” Ford commented. “What happened afterward?” Luna asked her sister. Celestia sighed. “The bully of Twilight kidnapped her to sell her to the Soviets but Jessie managed to save her.” She showed how the veteran came to the location Twilight was held and defeated the boy with non-lethal means, and then fought two squads of soviets off that had arrived with his rifle, blood splattered from his chest but due to the adrenaline, he didn’t notice it at all until it was over. Again, Dinky sniffed, followed by the other children as James was collapsing and said to Twily, “I… I wish this had never happened or I saw this coming. I wish I… could spend more time with you. But I will… always…be…in… your heart.” He used his last strength to point with his hand to her heart before he succumbed to his injuries. “At least he died for a good cause,” Frank said with sadness, having his head lowered. “But…didn’t you say he’s still alive?” Luna wondered. “Yes, he is. I took him to Equestria and my best doctors managed to fix him up, as I knew Twily would fall into a deep depression as I did after I had to banish you, Luna.” They then saw how he recovered, celebrating with Celestia and the others before going to bed. In the next morning, a guard entered the room, Scootaloo recognized the stallion. “Daddy, is that you?” “Yes, dear. In fact, I was actually one of the guards that escorted the princess to earth.” “Sir, Breakfast is ready. I am here to escort you to the dining room.” His past self-said to James, who nodded. “Lead the way. What’s your name?” “Private Blizzard Storm. Actually, I am a recruit.” He blushed. “Why did you join?” “Similar to your friend, to impress my marefriend. She has an orange mane and tail and a torquiest coat, light blue eyes and as Cutie Mark a heart with a blue ribbon tied around it. Her name is Misty Breeze. My father was a guard too and he told me that it is a great honor to serve in the royal guard, and that every mare loves a stallion in uniform or golden armor.” “That’s true.” They shared a laugh. “Good luck to you, Storm.” “Thank you.” “So you did join to impress me? Misty asked, causing her husband to lower his head in embarrassment. “Hey, cheer up, it worked back then, something you can be proud of.” She added with a smile, the others chuckled. “What happened afterward?” The doctor asked curiously. “Well, we visited him to Christmas in the same year.” Celestia lit up her horn and showed the wonderful evening she and the Sparkles spent with him. They warmed themselves at the fireplace and gave the humans presents, James got a fancy watch. “That was such a nice idea of you, sister.” Luna praised her. “Thank you. Unfortunately after that, diplomatic and politic times made it impossible for me to visit him again and Twilight had to focus on her studies but never forget him, being distracted by her tasks until the wormhole incident reminded her again of it. But I managed to look regular how his life went.” “What happened? Shining armor asked. Celestia took a deep breath. “See for yourself.” She casted a spell and TV screen appeared in front of them all, showing Günther in a General uniform, notable by the peaked cap, which had gold colored Lugs, drawstring and buttons, his Insignia was bright-red. The Oak leaves wreath and national insignia were also golden, his trousers had Crimson leg strips. “From the very first time I put on a uniform, I knew I had accepted a burden that would last a lifetime. And even when I left our country’s military behind, my obligation for service remained.” He spoke in a neutral voice. “That obligation is one I and all the men and woman of the Harmonious Guard take seriously. We will serve with honor, and dignity.” Several men and woman in silver uniforms stepped up behind him, saluting as a flag with a silver and gold badge with Twilight Sparkle's purple star in the center appeared in front of them. “The Harmonious Guard. Security you can count on.” Another male voice said and it ended. “Harmonious Guard?” Edward asked confused. “Do you know them?” Johann asked. “Yes, kinda. Back in the day when my father was with the Diamond Dogs in the 1980s, he told me that his boss was helping the Guard out on one of their FOBs when it was just created, I think they got inspired by the Diamond Dogs.” The former mercenary explained. “I always thought James had what it takes to be an officer and leader, but that…is quite impressive.” Frank said in fascination. “Yet, I can’t see why he would become a mercenary. It isn’t the same as a soldier, and money was never his interest.” He wondered conflicted. “Yes, an old friend of him thought the same.” The white pony said as the scene changed to an office where James was talking with an elderly man, appearing to be in his late 60s, having grey hair and blue eyes. “Remember when we served together in Africa?” He asked Günther, who smiled and chuckled. “Gosh yes, I can still remember how you earned the Iron Cross back then, Konrad.” “And you had everything figured out. I always thought you could become an officer like me.” Jessie laughed. “Not much has changed there.” “I always wondered that you stayed a private over the war and never got promoted. You were always good at helping others. Inspiring them, they’re always willing to follow.” “I got some good speechwriters.” James grinned. “Knock it off, James. You write it yourselves and you always have. And they’ll always follow you. They’d follow you to the gates of hell if you’re asked. I’m impressed, you’ve done a hell of a job, Jessie.” “Hey, I’m not done yet. As Rommel said once: ‘If I had to take hell, I would use the Australians to take it and the New Zealanders to hold it. Winning the men's confidence requires much of a commander. He must exercise care and caution, look after his men, live under the same hardships, and-above all- apply self-discipline. But once he has their confidence, his men will follow him through hell and high water.’” “Indeed and you took everything by heart.” The elderly man praised him. “Wow…He became a mercenary?” Lange asked, surprised that his friend was able to pull something like this off. “Yes. During the final stages of the Second World War, he heard rumors about an underground warehouse with secret technologies. After Twilight was back home, he decided to check if those rumors were fake or real. And to his surprise, it was real. Those technologies saw little to no action in the war, with the warehouse containing production facilities and ways to keep this all updated and served.” Celestia explained. “Most impressive. But why would he do this?” Ian wondered. Frank put a hand to his chin. “If I remember correctly, he told me once he was always a soldier, not able to think of a different work. And I guess he didn’t want that this all would get into the wrong hands.” The white mare nodded. “You are correct. Apart from performing military tasks in war or crisis areas, they are also providing security of various types and transport of all sorts of items. Even government official hire them for security. Its honest business but…” She paused for a moment. “This all reminds me of the leader of the PMC that provided security before me and my sister came and founded the Royal Guard. He was an honest pony but power slowly corrupted him, thus forcing us to…remove him and end his PMC.” Her voice was slightly shaken. “I’m sorry, your highness that I woke bad memories.” Lange lowered his head. “It’s alright, it’s in the past now. I’m just worried that…” She took a deep breath. “James might be corrupted by power too.” Luna put a wing around her older sister. “Sis, you said 54 years passed on earth since the incident happened, and he founded the PMC in the 1980s. With so much time passed and still being active, I doubt he will if he has keep it under control for so long.” Celestia smiled weakly. “Yes, maybe I worry too much. There is also another thing.” She lit up her horn and the scene showed the veteran watching TV. To be exact, it was a show called “My little Pony: Friendship is Magic”. The first episode was on the schedule, it showed how Twilight got sent to Ponyville by Celestia, met her friend’s and defeated Nightmare Moon. The ponies and humans watched in confusion, their mouths wide open. “Oh...my…” Fluttershy blushed, hiding her face with her wings. “That is…” Pinkie mumbled, “Awesome! We got fans!” She had a wide grin. Celestia chuckled. “Indeed, in fact, you have a lot. The show is intended for girls but it became very popular among boys and adults, called Bronies and Pegasisters. James himself is a fan and so are many of the mercenaries under his command, thus getting the nickname Brony Army.” “The more you know…”Rainbow Dash was fascinated. “I just don’t know how I could him bring to Equestria without raising suspicion among his fellow mercenaries.” The white Alicorn replied with concern. Luna started to smile. “I might have an idea for this.” Celestia smiled. “Thank you, Lulu. I try to visit him, you should prepare for his arrival.” Pinkie saluted. “Will do!” And Luna casted a spell that brought her and the others back to reality, while Celestia casted a spell that brought her to Earth. As she opened her eyes, she found herself in front of an office door, no humans in sight. She took a deep breath and exhaled before knocking on the door. “Come in.” A male voice said from the other side. The mare opened it and walked in, seeing James sitting at a desk, doing paperwork. “Yes?” He asked as he looked up, his expression became surprised upon seeing the princess of the Sun. He slowly smiled. “Princess Celestia, it is nice to see you again after such a long time.” “The pleasure is all mine, James.” She returned the smile. “But I’m afraid my reason to visit you is not a pleasant one.” She then told him about Twilight, his expression became serious. “I suspected she would miss me but I never thought it would become so bad. But if she needs me, so be it.” “But what about your work?” She asked with worry. “This won’t be a problem.” He replied and raised his arm, showing a miniature, portable, Terminal-like device on it. “Linda, I just got called to an urgent, important meeting, I need you to cover my absence.” He spoke into it. “Will do, commander!” A female voice replied. “That is convenient. Now, cover your eyes.” Celestia lit up her horn and a white light surrounded them. As he opened his eyes, he found himself on a big room, which he assumed belonged to Twilight’s castle. “Wait here.” The princess told him and left the room. A few moments later, it opened again and in a flash, a pink Earth pony stormed in, almost eye to eye as she looked at him with a smile. “I am Pinkie Pie and Welcome in Ponyville!” James forced a smile, knowing that she didn’t meant to be rude. “Pleased to meet you too, Pinkie Pie, but could you please step back?” She gave an embarrassed smile. “Of course, sorry, I forget this sometimes.” “It’s nice to see you again, James.” Twilight’s mother smiled as she walked in with the rest of the family. “Likewise.” He replied and bowed as he saw Princess Luna. “Your highness.” “Rise. It’s an honor to meet you, James.” “The honor is all mine.” He then took notice of several other ponies behind her, slowly, the shadows of several humans appeared, much to his surprise. Adults and children of both genders, one man was wearing Stormtrooper armor from Star Wars. They smiled at him. The man instantly recognized one of them, seeing the brown hair and green eyes. “Frank, I thought you were a goner at Stalingrad.” James said with a smile, although he was a bit confused to see him again. “Apparently not. It’s a long story though.” He quickly told his friend how he ended up in Equestria and the others made short introductions. While it was strange, James wasn’t exactly foreign to this, due to the Brony fandom having stories with humans in Equestria. He then made his way to Twilight. The purple unicorn sniffed and sobbed, missing the man who helped her when she was a foal. He had been years but despite her studies, he never forgot him. It knocked on the door. ”Please…leave me alone…” It opened regardless. “That’s not the Twilight I used to know.” Her ears twitched, she knew that voice. Getting up, she saw a man with blue eyes and blond hair, a round face, with a slightly muscular build leaning against the door, smiling at her. She blinked. “J-James? Is that really you?” She asked in disbelief. “In flesh and blood.” He replied. “JAMES!” He rammed into him for a hug, throwing him over. “I missed you so much!” He returned it. “I missed you too, Twily.” “We should celebrate this.” Pinkie suggested with tears of joy, causing both to grin. “Right on!” They all enjoyed the party, eating cake and other sweets, dancing. It made Twilight’s friends smile that she was finally reunited again with the man who helped her. She was fascinated by his story and that he had founded a PMC: Late in the evening, James walked out of the balcony, watching the sunset. “My old friend, can I ask you something?” Lange joined him with Twilight. “Shoot.” “Why did you become a mercenary? You always said you were a soldier. Both things are familiar, yet not the same.” Günther took a deep breath. “When the Bundeswehr was first founded, I served to protect my country from another devastating war, ready to defend it. Ironic was, when the Bundeswehr was founded, its officers and NCOs came almost without exception from the Wehrmacht - partly from the Waffen-SS. The latter the very man the allies tried to punish after the war was over. And that led that many of them could still do as they pleased, being unpunished or being corrupt. Also, the Basic Law stated that the Bundeswehr should under no circumstances operate within the Federal Republic. It was not until 1968 - the possibility of disasters in mind - with the emergency laws created the opportunity to use the Bundeswehr inside. A mistake, as it dangerous disasters, the military is sometimes the only hope. And many criticized the idea of a new military, thus we soldiers rarely saw respect, which hurt me. When I discovered the secret technologies, I knew at once they couldn’t be allowed to fall into the heads of the soviets. So I got the idea of the Harmonious Guard by using those technologies. Originally a militia that operated within the Federal Republic, it became known and respected, changed into the PMC it is today. I only pursue the goal to make the world safer, not for money.” He sighed. “When the regular emergency services are overwhelmed, the military must step in to help. But, after I served in the Bundeswehr, I wanted to leave the military behind, yet failed at weaning myself from the battlefield. Then I realized how I could solve this. An Army without a country. Providing military force for anyone who needs them, regardless of nations or ideologies. I help others to prevent sharing my fate.” Frank thought for a moment. “James, I must say, your idea of this…really suits you.” “Yes it does, you do what you’re best at, being a soldier.” Twilight smiled. In the next morning, Spike walked up to Jessie. “Mr. James, we never met but I want to give you my gratitude for helping Twilight back then.” The dragon said to him with a grateful expression. “I did only what was right, Spike.” As it was time for James to go home, Twilight asked him with worry, “Will I ever see you gain, to due your work?” She knew it was complicated. “Don’t worry, Twilight, I have a solution for this.” Luna said and levitated a small necklace that looked like the Elements of harmony into his hands. “This is a Heximal Pendant, it will allow you to travel to Equestria at any time. I modified it so that only you can use it and come back around the same time you left or with only a few minutes passed on Earth, in case there’s an emergency in your organization.” “Thank you, your highness.” He then gave Twily a goodbye hug. “I’ will visit you regularly, I‘ll promise.” “I will miss you, James! Goodbye.” She returned it before gently letting go and he pressed a button on the necklace, and he vanished in a white light. “I see you later, Daddy.” She spoke to herself, already eager to meet again, her friends smiled, proud that they helped her. This was a new era for all of them. An era they would enjoy, wondering how the future would be. Chapter 5 Silver Spoon's, Noi's, Pinch's Tootsie's and Petunia stories and plansChapter 5: Silver Spoons story and plans “Ruby Pinch accidentally zapped me as she lost control of her magic as she practiced. I found myself in an alley in a thunderstorm. Carl and his friend Aiden found me. Carl took me home and introduced me to his wife Sofia. They told me that I was in Liberty City and the year was 2008. I was told that they wanted to be parents but every attempt failed.” “So you’re also infertile?” Johann’s wife asked. “Not exactly, Nina. It was always a miscarriage. After the fifth, the doctor said another would probably kill me. As her parents died after she got her Cutie Mark, we became her parents, right sweetheart?” “Exactly!” she exclaimed. “Unlike any of you, Carl and Aiden are not soldiers but police officers of the LCPD. Daddy was a member of the Tactical Response Unit, who is called in to deal with hostage situations and such.” “Like the SWAT in our universe. Liberty City is like New York I suppose?” Mia counted two and two together. “Yeah. They showed me Algonquin the next day, which is like Manehattan here. I will never forget the view from the Rotterdam Tower.” She let out a smile. “After lunch, we went to the park where I met Aiden’s and Emily’s children, Mason and Emma. Like any other of you, we became good friends. Since I lost my parents, I asked if they could be my parents and you know the answer. We made a picnic in the park and played cops and robbers. Then we watched TV. Aiden got the Idea to show me Broker. At the police station, I met Deputy Police Commissioner McReary. I acted if I was his niece. I also met Carl’s teammates. With Aiden I patrolled Broker as his ‘partner’ but a car rammed us from behind, causing Aiden to pass out and his car crashed against a wall. I was unharmed and got out to get help. A criminal kidnapped me as I was witness of a crime. His boss was disgusted that his henchman kidnapped me and let me go as it was a misunderstanding as he kidnapped two other men. I passed out from pain as… how should I say, the boss’s pistol hit me in the gut as it accidentally went off. I woke up in the house of Mallorie Bardas. I told her about me and she called Aiden to bring me home. The next days were quiet. Mommy had to go to work because a colleague was sick. Her boss said I could come with here. I took great pleasure in the bank business and helping mommy. In the afternoon, w-we were victims of a bank robbery. I and mommy were unharmed but daddy and Aiden got hurt as the robbers shot their way out. But it wasn’t serious. They were released a few days later. Also, the doctor who took treated them was an old friend of them and said he would treat me should I get hurt. I went shopping with mommy in Northwood as we were witnesses if a kidnapping. They took me too to make sure the police wouldn’t be alerted. I was brought to a warehouse. But they didn’t hold me long, as the cousin of the kidnapped man saved us both. My savior had the name Niko and the kidnapped man was his cousin, Roman. They both were friends of Mallorie. Niko took me in his house where I stayed for the night. He brought me home the next day. We all became good friends and were also good friends of Nikos friends. One day, Deputy Police Commissioner McReary was killed by a criminal. We were invited to his funeral. At the funeral, gangsters attacked but Niko, Carl, and Aiden took care of them. After that, I had a nightmare and I ran away, only to be kidnapped by a bad guy who wanted t-to t-take my organs out!” Everyone gasped as Sofia patted her. “Anyway, Niko saved me once again. On the way to his house, we ran into a crazy guy who attacked Niko but the police took care of him. As my kidnappers had broken my rips, Niko called a friend who was a nurse who took care of me. We went bowling with Niko the next day. On the way home, fake FIB agents arrested me. They took me to a house in Northwood. One of them was careless with a cigarette and accidentally lit the house. I thought I was dead as I saw a white light and gates. Luckily, the doctor managed to revive me. I had to stay for monitoring, Mason and Emma visited me every day. My parents showed me the Statue of Happiness. It’s like the Statue of Liberty but has a coffee cup in his hand instead of a torch. Rumors say the Statue even has a beating heart.” “How did they not see this in the blueprints?” “Good question, Mia. We had much fun this evening. In the night, I had to use the bathroom as someone kidnapped me again. This time, daddy saved me. Aiden wanted me to show me his house as the Russians burned it down. Then they kidnapped me again to abduct me to Russia. But Niko took revenge on them for kidnapping his cousin. That day was also special as Roman and Mallorie married!” She exclaimed happily before trembling lightly. Sofia patted her as she continued. “The wedding was nice but a car with an angry mafia boss showed up. His goal was to kill Niko but he killed accidentally his girlfriend and injured Silver fatal. My husband and Aiden along with Niko, Roman and a friend of him hunted the boss down.” Carl continued the story. “Roman told us that his wife was pregnant and that she carried twins. If one of them would be a girl, it would be named Silver. Although the injury was fatal, Silver Spoon recovered within a week. She called me on my cell phone when I took a walk. Just then, some goons of another Russian stormed the hospital, killing the doctor and kidnapping her to bring her on their boss’s plane. Instead of Niko, a man whose identity we never found out saved her.” His wife finished it. “Also, the Russians burned our house down. I lost my job shortly after the robbery as the damage was too great. Aiden and my husband lost their jobs for hunting down her kidnapper without permission. But after that, her sister Octavia and friend Vinyl found her. They were grateful and we become her parents in Equestria. I like Ponyville as it is peaceful and quiet, not so busy like Liberty City. And we’re free from terrorists.” Sofia nuzzled Silver’s nose, causing her to giggle. “Sounds like you went through a lot. For me and Edward, it was a journey around the world.” Noi explained, taking several deep breaths to stay calm. “Similar to Scootaloo, I landed on Earth due Written Script being sick, where Edward found me. He was member of a PMC that used an advanced battlefield control system to keep the soldiers effective in battle. However, finding me caused him to get disconnected. He attempted to get me to a safe place far from danger, which almost was done but I got kidnapped by…his boss who called himself Liquid. H-he…” She couldn’t bring herself to tell it, hugging Edward for comfort. “Shh, calm down, let me tell it for you. He did something that traumatized her severely. Before I forget, this all happened in 2014. I traveled to South America to Eastern Europe, even to Alaska to find her, together with a new ally, who named himself Snake. When we found her, he took the System down. After this journey, I brought her to my home in London until her family came to bring her back home. I and my mother came to Equestria not only because we like family to her but also to help her against her trauma.” He explained in a short way, wanting to spare the others with the dark details. “Noi has really suffered the most out of us all. I’m very glad I survived what I went through with you, Frank.” The rose-colored unicorn explained, shivering at the memories. “Yeah…I served in the Afrika Corps before getting transferred to Stalingrad. Here, I found Pinch, who had landed here due to a failed spell and took care of here. It was a bloody and long fight, she had to endure everything. My squad also got help from two Russians in keeping her safe. While we managed to get most of the city under control, it had costed us many men and in the winter of 1942/43, the tide was turning and eventually, the men of my squad died one other another until only I was left, trying to get her to safety in a blizzard. Hadn’t it been for the princesses, we had never made it. As Ruby had lost her father before she was born and my wife and daughter had died in a bombing raid, I choose to become her stepfather. Funny though is, I knew two men with the names Konrad and James, we were good friends, having been in the Africa Korps together, I saw them last in my leave in August 42.” The veteran told with a steady voice, yet had a small hint of being uncomfortable. “I guess this was your salvation, I read once, that of the 260,000 men, 91,000 got took prisoners and only 6,000 returned home after the war ended in 1945, the last prisoners got released on the 1950s,” Edward told him. “Guess we have some things in common, Frank. I severed in the Imperial Japanese Army during the Pacific War, finding Tootsie while being on patrol. The reason why she landed here was similar to Diamond’s reason. During a battle, she got separated from me and my squad, where James took care of her.” Sato told them and his American friend continued. “Yes, after a…misunderstanding. As I got leave, I took her to the USA, introducing her to my daughter and wife. As for why I am her father, I used to be a unicorn with the name Helping Heart, being Lyra’s husband. I saved her from a spell, landing on Earth but got transformed into a human, Harper found me. Like with Lyra, we fell in love with each other, having our daughter Victoria. After my leave was over, Flute accidentally returned to the Pacific with me, where a…not very friendly Japanese officer captured her but with the help of Sato and his friends, we freed her but it had costed the lives of Sato’s friends. As his family had also died in a bombing raid, we offered him a place to stay. I went to Equestria to be reunited with the unicorn I love, I and my family couldn’t be any happier.” “Yes, daddy!” Tootsie and Victoria exclaimed in unison. “A too familiar fate. I and my brothers were born in Vietnam, a country that hadn’t seen peace in a long time, being split into the South and North. Due to an argument between our parents, we got separated before a war broke out. I was patrolling with my friend Ethan as we found Petunia, landing on Earth due to an argument with a unicorn. We took care of her and she got to know my lost brothers, eventually reuniting us. As we only wanted to return home, we found our village destroyed by a group of deserters and our parents killed, King and his family lost their house in a fire caused by rioters and the people started to yell mean words at him. As Princess Celestia arrived, we became a part of Petunia’s family to finally be able to live in peace together as brothers.“ Hoang told everyone with a slightly shaken voice, still remembering everything in detail. Twilight looked out of the window. It was evening. “That was interesting. You should go home now. If you’re wondering, the magic here allows you to understand each other regardless of the language.” “Yeah, we should.” Apple Bloom yawned. “Ah think we need a bigger clubhouse and means of transportation after this.” “We’ll see. What about giving you a tour of the Stormy?” Ian suggested. “Nice Idea. Can we daddy?” Jules asked his father. “Of course. But now, let’s catch some sleep. Goodnight everyone.” They all left. Twilight had to suppress tears. Making sure Spike wasn’t near; she went to her bedroom and opened a shelf that could only be opened by her. In it were plushie versions of herself and her family. She cried and sobbed as she hugged them all tightly. “J-James, I m-miss y-you so much. P-papa…” she cried herself to sleep.
Chapter 1 An unexpected eventChapter 1: An unexpected event Dinky was having a picnic with all her friends and family members. She already had a mother and father but she loved Johann and Nina with all her heart. “So, Hans how’s your wife?” Johann asked his friend, Hans. “Good. It’s a wonderful summer day, isn’t it?” “Indeed, it just would be nice if there would be more humans in Equestria,” Kurt said as Dinky played with Karl and Anja in the grass. They stopped as they spotted something in the sky, something they had seen before, looking like a hole. “What’s that?” Dinky was confused. A wormhole I think.” Time Turner replied, having knowledge from his adventures. “What the? HELP!” Dinky and Karl and Anja yelled as they got sucked into the wormhole. “Hold on!” Sparkler used her magic while Derpy tried to fly to them but both were stopped by an invisible force. “What’s happening?!” Nina called out as the kids were whirled around. “I have seen this before. Another universe becomes one with ours.” Dr. Whooves explained. In the Story of the Blanks universe Ruby was waking up and smiled as her sister and brother cuddled in their sleep. Mitta walked in and spoke gently, “Time to wake up.” “Good morning, mommy!” all three exclaimed happily at the sight of their mother. Julian and Mitta loved Mitta and she loved them. She liked being their mother and she loved that Helmut was their father. They weren’t in love or married but were acting like they were. Helmut was in the kitchen making pretzels. “Good morning.” “Good morning, daddy!” the kids hugged him. After breakfast, they went outside. Laura let out a sigh. “I like it here but I feel lonely sometimes being the only human girl here.” “Me too, sis.” Her brother added. “I understand but you’re free from the Regime.” Mitta pointed out. “That’s right. What is that?” Helmut pointed to something in the sky. “I don’t know. But… HELP ME MOMMY!” Ruby screamed as he and her two human siblings were sucked in. “Oh my gosh. RUBY!” Mitta reached out but it was too late. In another universe “AHH! MOMMY, DADDY HELP!” Sweetie Belle and her human friends screamed. “SWEETIE BELLE!” Rarity cried as she tried to save them but to no avail. “Oh God! What is happening to them?!” Marie was shocked. “I don’t know.” “Franz was also worried. In the Star Wars universe “MOMMY, DADDY!” Scootaloo and her human brother were scared. Rainbow Dash tried to save them but something knocked her back. “SCOOTS!” she yelled. “Sir, sensors showing a wormhole in Equestria. Two lifeforms got sucked in. It’s Scootaloo and Ray!” A crew member of the Story reported “Get a shuttle ready.” Ian had never seen something like this before. “Yes, Sir.” Ian had never seen something like this before. In yet another universe “UNCLE HELP ME!” Apple Bloom tried to hold on Konrad’s hand but the wormhole was so strong. Mia and Jacob looked in horror. In another Equestria “HELP!” Diamond Tiara and her new friends called out for help as they got sucked in. Josef and his wife along with Tiara's parents prayed that she would be safe In yet another Equestria “MAMA! PAPA!” HELP US!” Silver Spoon and Mason and Emma screamed. “NO! SILVER!” Sofia broke out in tears. In a different Equestria “DADDY!” Noi called out, Edward and his mother watched in shock as Written Script tried to safe her with his magic but his horn only made sparks. “NOI!” Carrot Top exclaimed in fear. At the same time in a different universe “MOMMY! HELP!” The young unicorn Ruby Pinch called out in terror as she got sucked in, her parents could only watch in horror, Colgate tried to use her magic but for some reason, nothing worked. “RUBY!” Her mother exclaimed in despair. Meanwhile in another Ponyville. “MOMMY! DADDY!” Tootsie and her half-sister Victoria screamed in union, their family watched horrified. “TOOTSIE! VICTORIA!” Their parents yelled at the top of their lungs. At the same time in yet a different Ponyville “MAMA! DADDY!” Petunia, Liam and Lara exclaimed terrified. “CHILDREN!” Their families called out in shock and terror, unable to help them. “Hey, look! Somethings happening!” Aiden pointed to the wormhole as he saw Silver and his children along with other kids. Dinky, her friends and the original CMC members got whirled around until they saw other human children they didn’t know. The whirring stopped. At first, they all were glad but realized that they were standing on thin air. They screamed in terror as they were falling. Scootaloo tried to use her wings but the g-forces kept her from doing so. “Hang on!” Rainbow, along with Fluttershy, Twilight and Derpy came to, their aid. Also Sparkler and Rarity used their Magic. “Thanks Mama!” Dinky hugged Derpy. Dinky let out a breath of relief. “I thought I will die!” “Shh, no more tears.” Sparkler managed to catch Karl and Anja. “Thanks, Sparkler!” They hugged her. Fluttershy managed to catch Ruby with her friends. “We owe you something.” “You owe me nothing, kids.” She could never live with herself letting a child die. Rarity got Sweetie Belle and her friend’s safety in their magic. “Thanks, sis.” Rainbow Dash flew under her sister and friends while Twilight managed to save Silver and Diamond along with the humans, Colgate, Written Script, and Lyra caught their family members, the latter unicorn caught also Petunia and her 2 friends. “Thank you, Princess Twilight.” Diamond was grateful. “Please Tiara, Twilight is just fine.” They landed. While the foals knew each other, the human children didn’t. Ruby saw Apple Bloom’s Cutie Mark. “Since when you got your Cutie Mark?” “Did I ever tell you that?” She replied. “Dinky! Karl! Anja!” their families called out. Nina scooped Dinky in her arms. “I’m so glad you’re alright!” “I was scared but mama saved me!” “Ruby! I thought I had lost you!” Mitta hugged her tightly. “Too tight! Can’t breathe!” “Oh, sorry. I just don’t want to lose you after what happened.” Helmut arrived and hugged Laura and Julian. “Isn’t that the 1946 Uniform of the German Army?” Johann asked. “Yes why’re you asking?” They were interrupted. “Sweetie Belle! Jules! Lily!” Marie called out and hugged them. “Mommy! Rarity saved us!” Franz was out of breath. “Apple Bloom!” Jacob with his wife and Konrad arrived. They were wearing their Overwatch uniforms. “Daddy, mommy, uncle!” They embraced. “Scootaloo! Ray! Are you hurt?” No mommy, we’re fine.” Ray replied. A Lambda-class T-4a shuttle landed and Ian stepped out. “Thank the Force!” “Nice armor.” Forren commented upon seeing the Overwatch uniform. “Thanks. You look great too.” Konrad replied to Forren. “Diamond Tiara! Erwin! Dora!” Josef hugged Tiara, Elsa Erwin and Dora. “Shh, it’s over.” “Silver Spoon! Mason! Emma!” Sofia and Emily called out. “Mommy!” They all embraced. “Noi! You’re okay!” Her sister and father hugged her, glad she wasn’t hurt. “Ruby!” Berry and Fran called out. “Tootsie!” Lyra and Bonbon exclaimed, happy to see the young unicorn alright. “Petunia! My little filly!” Her mother was relieved. To see her unharmed. Then, all humans looked at each other. “Well, this is awkward.” Johann said. “Let’s introduce ourselves, shall we? I’m Dinky Hooves and these are my parents Derpy and Time Turner and my sister Sparkler. These are Johann and Nina, my stepparents and my friends Karl and Anja.” Dinky smiled at them. “I’m Ruby. Those are my mother Mitta and my stepfather Helmut and my adopted siblings Julian and Laura.” “I’m Franz Klein and this is my wife Marie and our adopted children Jules and Lily. We are the stepparents of Sweetie Belle.” “I’m Scootaloo and those are my stepparents Forren and Miro and my brother Ray.” She pointed to them. “Nice to meet ya. Ah’m Apple Bloom and those are my stepparents Jacob and Mia and mah uncle Konrad.” She smiled at them. “My stepparents are Josef Becker and his wife Elsa. My friends are Silver Spoon and their children Dora and Erwin.” Tiara explained. “And my stepparents are Carl Wagner and Sofia. My friends are Mason and Emma, the children of Carl’s friend Aiden and his wife Emily.” Silver Spoon introduced them. My name is Noi, my sister Carrot Top, her friend Written Script, my stepfather Edward Smith and his mother Caroline.” The young Earth pony introduced her family. I’m Ruby Pinch, this is my mother Berry, her friend Colgate and my daddy Frank Lange.” “I’m called Tootsie Flute, this is my mother Lyra, her friend Bon-Bon, my father James Eliot, his wife Harper and their daughter Victoria and my uncle Sato Haruto.” The baby blue unicorn smiled at them. “And I’m Petunia Paleo, my parents Grant and Levine, my friend Ethan King, his wife Emily and their children Liam and Lara. And my uncles Hoang em Binh, Dung and Dang.” The paleontologist introduced her friends and family. “So, then what happened?” Ninja wondered. “I believe, Mrs. Bauer, that this wormhole connected our universes to one for some reason.” Time Turner explained, “I just don’t get it why.” “Well, we were feeling lonely being the only humans in Equestria.” Laura explained. “What a coincidence. We’re felt the same.” Anja was surprised. Same here.” Jules added. “Make that a triple.” Ray said. “Then, why we don’t tell how our human friend and parents got to Equestria?” Dinky’s stomach growled. “Why we don’t have lunch in my castle?” “Nice Idea, Twilight. Should I tell first, mama?” Dinky asked. “If you’re want, muffin.” Derpy said, knowing that Dinky had to be strong but her family and friends would be here for her. Author's Note Inspired by this story, thought it would be better for future stories.
Chapter 2 Dinky’s and Ruby’s storyChapter 2: Dinky’s and Ruby’s story At the castle, Twilight got some sandwiches. Dinky did the trick B.J. showed her back then. “It all began when I practiced my magic. The teleport spell I used overloaded and I found myself in a parking lot. I was wondering where I was as I heard an explosion. I was unharmed but scared. Johann found me. He told me that I was at the London Nautica, a research building. He introduced me to his commander and friend Kurt.” He smiled at her. “The London Nautica was used to be downtown until the Germans took over.” The officer explained, causing Laura to raise her hand. “So we did win the war?” “Yes. After a small encounter with a former allied soldier named William Joseph Blazkowicz B.J. for short, I got to meet his wife Nina. They told me that they wanted to be parents but Nina was barren and taking care of me was like their dream became true.” Dinky took a bite from her sandwich. “They showed me the London Nautica and I can tell you it was fun and interesting. One day, I became sick and Karl and Anja visited me regularly and we became very good friends. Johann was part of the Luftwaffe. I was told that Wilhelm Strasse also called ‘Deathshead’ was the mastermind behind Germany’s victory. One day, his men tried to take me away but they had an accident and B.J. saved me. I learned this trick from him to calm down. I recommend it. He and his friends took care of me, but the hideout got discovered by Deathshead’s men. They took me to him a-and…” She started to tremble but Nina patted her. “Shh, let me tell it for you. Let’s just say, he did something terrible to her but my husband saved her. At the same time, Princess Celestia found her. As we wanted to be parents and we were now enemies of our state, Dinky’s family offered that we could be a part of it. Also, we managed to reserve what he did to her.” All humans showed sympathy, smiling sadly at the filly, the former ghost was rather shocked to hear this. “That reminds me of what happened to me.” Ruby took a deep breath. “My story began at my old home. I used to live in a town in the Everfree Forest called ‘Sunny Town.’ Unlike other pony’s, we had no idea what a Cutie Mark was. We only knew that there was a plague called Cutie Pox long ago.” “Ah had it once. It forced me to do the things the marks showed.” The yellow filly explained. “That’s right, Apple Bloom. I found out that my special talent was finding things. After I gained my Cutie Mark, the leader of the Town, Gray Hoof ordered my friends to- to…” Ruby was close to tears but Mitta comforted her. “You don’t have to say it, sweetheart. Let me tell it for you.” Everyone who knew Ruby already knew what she meant. “Anyway, after my daughter died, the town was cursed and we all became… zombies. They all, except for me, had only one goal: Making other ponies a part of ours to ‘protect’ them from getting their Cutie Marks.” The Human adults and children were shocked, gasping. “Ok, how?” Forren asked confused. “We don’t know and I think it is better if we don’t know.” Ruby calmed down. “For some reason, I became a ghost that could still eat and feel. I never understood how it worked. One day, I accidentally led Apple Bloom here. I managed to find an escape route for her. Then I landed in Castle Wolfenstein where Helmut found me.” “Wolfenstein?” Dinky’s stepfather asked. “Yes, Johann. He explained that it was March in 1946 and how Germany was close to victory thanks to Deathshead.” “Never thought, we were from the same universe.” Kurt was speechless. “The more you know. Helmut showed me the castle. Like Dinky, I met B.J. But this encounter resulted that the commander of Castle Wolfenstein interrogated me but Helmut saved me. He introduced me to his mother and showed me his home, Wulfsburg, where I got to know my two friends and now siblings. But then something terrible happened. After an earthquake, people that died reanimated as zombies. I read in a letter that some kind of gas was responsible for it. Again, Helmut saved me with the help of B.J. Together we fought our way through the burning city and came to the Church ruins where a dig site was. Inside, we had to fight a giant monster. After we defeated it, a friend of B.J. saved us. Then mommy found me. As Apple Bloom got help, the curse was over and I and my mother got a second chance as she was the only one who resisted against the curse. As my real father died shortly after my birth, I see Helmut as my father and live with him happily.” She smiled. “He and they became a part of my family as their parents died and Helmut lost his home, friends, and mother. He was just 18 back then.” “I heard what happened there back then. My condolences.” Johann had sympathy, looking sad at the young man, who waved a hand. “It’s alright, Johann.” “Well, who should tell next?” Ray asked. “I would like to tell my story.” Sweetie Belle offered. “Wait a second. How did you get your Cutie Marks?” Ruby asked her friend. “Simple, Ruby. We found out that our special talent is to help other ponies. And with yours, we will find those ponies.” “Oh stop it, Apple Bloom.” Ruby blushed. “Well, the beginning of my story is similar to Dinky’s.” Sweetie Belle took a bite and smiled and Franz and Marie. She had their support and she loved them with all her heart.
Chapter 3 Sweetie Belle’s and Scootaloo’s storyChapter 3: Sweetie Belle’s and Scootaloo’s story “Similar to Dinky, I practiced my magic and landed near an alley. I hide there when I heard an explosion. Franz found me and took me to his home. He lived together with Marie who had lost her Husband and son when the Invasion of France started. I landed in Paris in 1941. They showed me Paris. I will never forget the view from the Eifel Tower.” She smiled at the memory. “On the way home, we met Jules and Lilly; we became very good friends like every other friend they had been taken by the Gestapo, the secret police in Paris. The next day, made had a picnic on the countryside and found a tank from WW1. But as we walked home, a firing squad almost e-executed us.” Rarity gave her a hug to calm her down as she started to tremble. “Thanks, sis. Anyway, the Saboteur, a man who was fighting against the Germans saved us. Franz and Marie were like parents to me and I called them Mommy and Daddy.” “You’re not the only one.” Scoots commented. “I know Scootaloo. The next day, Lilly and Jules visited us, to make me feel better. I went shopping with Franz as a Sniper nest next to us collapsed. We were unharmed but a soldier wanted to shoot me. Again, the Saboteur saved me. He took me to a resistance base where I stayed for the night. He also told me his name. Sean Delvin. A woman named Clara wanted to bring me home but Gestapo agents stopped us. The Chief of Public Security interrogated me and t-threated to t-torture me if I would not give him information’s.” Marie comforted her. “Let me tell the rest sweetheart.” The filly nodded. “We were worried sick. While I was waiting for them, a Gestapo general wanted to marry me. He said that he would deport my friends if I would refuse. Sean along with Franz saved me from this. Sweetie returned safe and sound to us a few days later. Nevertheless, the Gestapo didn’t leave her alone. They forced her to work as Collaborator.” “WHAT?!” the other children exclaimed. Marie stroked her Mane. “I know, sounds horrible. We took shelter in the resistance base as Germans troops attacked. Franz covered our escape, but Terror soldiers caught us.” “Terror soldiers?” Josef asked confused. “A Special Forces unit. They made a bloody reputation on the Eastern front.” Franz explained to Josef. “They sentenced us to death but again, Sean helped us out. He brought us to the Belle, a nice place if you want to drink something or listening to music. We didn’t know that it was also a resistance base. As we thought we were safe, it was raided. Ironically, Sweetie Belle’s cooperation was our salvation as they spared us but Lily’s and Jules’s parents died in the crossfire. After the raid, an uprising started and the Chief went insane. He died as Sean and Franz confronted him. I took care of Jules and Lilly as their parents wanted so should something happen to them. We went to Equestria with Sweetie Belle and married and couldn’t be any happier with him. Here, we are free from brutal SS-soldiers, agents and Terror troops.” Marie and Franz kissed while Jules and his sister smiled. “We love you!” they said. “Nice to hear. Do you want to tell your story sister?” Ray asked, smiling at Franz and Marie. “Why not?” Scootaloo cleared her throat. “Unlike the others, I landed not on earth but another planet. The reason was that I got hit by a magic blast from Sweetie Belle when she was sick. And it wasn’t your fault, but an accident.” Scootaloo said as Sweetie Belle’s expression went guilty. “Founding myself in a forest, I stepped on a net trap. Before the hunters could do anything to me, Forren and his friend Tokrin arrived and helped me.” “Strange names.” Aiden’s and Emily’s son commented “That’s because we’re from another galaxy.” Ian explained to Mason. “Where was I? Oh, right. They took me to their base and told me that they were soldiers of the Galactic Empire.” Galactic Empire? Sounds like you landed in the Star Wars universe. Those were several movies, the first came out 1977.” The former security guard pointed out “Interesting,” Forren replied to Jacob. “Tokrin gave me a ride on his speeder bike and it was very nice. Back at the base, a shuttle brought us to the Stormy, an Imperial I-class Star Destroyer.” “That giant ship we saw in the sky?” The Aiden’s wife asked as it was visible in the sky when it was clear. “Correct, Emily. He flew to Coruscant, the Headquarters of the Empire and former home of Forren’s family. He introduced Miro and Ray to me and they showed me the city. I will never forget how great and beautiful it was. They even made a plushie of my father.” She smiled. “Ian, the captain of the Stormy had the idea of sending out probes to find my home. But Lord Vader arrived before we were able to implement the plan into action. I was scared but he was very polite. The Stormy then got order to assist Imperial forces at Abridon. As I said goodbye to Forren, a turbulence caused me to fall into the shuttle. Our shuttle was shot down but I was unharmed. I waited at the Imperial base and despite their ideology against nonhuman-lifeforms; the troopers were nice to me. As Forren returned, we came across a dead rebel trooper. He only played dead and… s-shot me.” All humans gasped as Forren patted her. “She had to spend two weeks in a bacta-tank,” Forren continued. “After she was stable, I got a message that my family died in an accident. My goal was from here was to get Scootaloo home. At the same time, the probe droids were sent out. After a few days, we were called to assist Imperials at Trasse. As we moved into the hanger, a Rebel transport landed in the hanger. The rebels thought we were holding her as prisoner or slave. They got her but the transport was disabled and crashed into the asteroid. I was part of the rescue team. She was unharmed as Kevin; a young rebel trooper saved her.” He smiled at Kevin. “But we got captured. Before they could evacuate, Imperial troop’s surprised and captured them. Lord Vader had closed her into his heart and pardoned us. We even had his full support. For some Reason, pirates found out about her and kidnapped her. They held her for ransom but we saved her. It got worse. Admiral Zaarin, a traitor also knew about her and tricked us. “They tortured her and even…” he took a deep breath, “Cut off her wing.” Again, everyone gasped. “You poor child!” Emily couldn’t believe what she just heard. “Don’t worry Mrs. Brown, I came over it and we replaced my lost wing. See?” Scootaloo showed her prosthetic wing. “After I replaced it, we celebrated. It was Ian’s Idea to cheer me up. Also, Ray and Miro accompanied us after I was saved as the message was a fake. After a few days, one probe droid had success. What none of us knew was that the Rebels had a secret base on Equestria. As result, the Stormy got into a heavy fight with them at home. After they found out that the Imperials weren’t here for the base and meant no harm to me, they evacuated the base as a retaliation strike by Lord Vader followed. All Imperials wanted to stay and he accepted that. Forren’s family is a part of my family and Ray my brother. The Stormy stayed in orbit to defend it from any intruders and they all lived happily ever since, right?” “Right, sis!” Ray said causing Rainbow to smile. “Mommy, can Ah tell our story next?” Apple Bloom smiled at Mia. “Of course but I think it is better if we start first.” Apple Bloom’s stepfather said, she smiled at him. “Go ahead, daddy.” Jacob tried to remain calm as he remembered the horrors in Black Mesa and City 17.
Chapter 4 Apple Bloom’s and Tiara’s storyChapter 4: Apple Bloom’s and Tiara’s story “Before we came to Equestria, I and my wife worked at Black Mesa, a research facility which was originally a test silo for ICBMs built in 1950 in the cold war. On 16th May somewhere between 2000 and 2009, I can’t remember exactly, an experiment went wrong causing a Resonance Cascade.” Karl raised his hand. “What’s that?” “I’m no scientist but Gordon, a friend of mine, told me that it is a cataclysmic quantum event. He also told me once that every object has a set resonance. When studied, the object will resonate even more, and sometimes even rapidly. If the object resonates too much, it can open dimensional rifts and portals. I was a security guard back then and my wife an office worker. The experiment opened rifts and portals to Xen, an alien world, so Black Mesa was invaded by Aliens. I fought my way to the offices with Gordon to save my wife. We heard that troops were coming in to save us.” Konrad continued for him. “Yeah. We arrived in the evening. I was a Corporal back then. I was part of Special Forces of US Marines called the Hazardous Environment Combat Unit, HECU for short. Unknown to the personnel, we weren’t here to rescue them, but to eliminate the aliens and to eliminate Black Mesa's civilian personnel to ensure that the incident is covered up. Many Marines disagreed with their orders. I was one of those Marines.” “Who would order such a terrible thing?” Emily was shocked. “I don’t know. We even didn’t know why were sent in, only to cover up the incident. Lucky for me, I got orders to rescue those who had nothing to do with the experiment. Orders were to execute anyone with knowledge of the research project that went awry. As I moved in, I found Apple Bloom. It turned out that the experiment also opened portals to Equestria causing her to land here. I closed her in my heart and I protected her until we met Jacob and Mia.” He smiled warmly at Apple Bloom who finished her sandwich. “We teamed up to get out of there alive. I and Apple Bloom got separated from them. We were trapped in a room that filled slowly with toxic waste but in the last moment, a man in a suit saved us. We teamed up with Gordon who was accidentally responsible for it. As he killed many Marines, he became their priority target and they deployed a great hate for him. I did not as he was only defending himself. We rejoined my buddies and the Johnsons after Gordon went a separate way. We rested for the night. Apple Bloom deployed a daughter-parent relationship with Jacob and Mia as they wanted to be parents after his shift was over. The HECU's initial foray into Black Mesa was highly successful: the Marines quickly gained an advantage over the confused and frightened survivors and aliens and established a substantial presence within the facility. Black Mesa's civilian personnel failed to put up any notable resistance, as many personnel mistakenly believed that the Marines were there to rescue them, and those who tried to defend the facility against the HECU were hopelessly outgunned and overwhelmingly outnumbered, having already been weakened by the Xen creatures. The HECU soon took control of Black Mesa's central command areas and issued orders over the public address system for the facility's remaining personnel to cooperate and submit to interrogation. I saw many dead marines on the way to them. The tide soon turned against the HECU, though, as the Xen aliens continued teleporting into Black Mesa in overwhelming numbers. My squad leader confirmed it to me the next day. It became a warzone. Tanks and helicopters were called in but it was not enough. The battle turned in favor of the Aliens. Orders came in to retreat to rally- and evacuations points and to pull out, while airstrikes and heavy artillery covered the retreat. We all managed to reach an Osprey and evacuated. But it was shot down. I survived seriously wounded along with my squad, Apple Bloom, Mia, and Jacob. All others died in the crash. We were all unconscious until Freeman caught up to us and saved Apple Bloom from a terrible fate.” She trembled but Mia hugged her. “We found out that the evacuation was woefully incomplete, however, leaving many Marines behind in the facility in the unenviable position of being caught amongst the aliens and a new enemy, the Black Ops. After the initial failure of the HECU's clean-up operation, the Black Ops were sent to cover up the whole incident by destroying the entire facility by detonating a thermonuclear device. They had order to kill anything, human or otherwise, that stand in their way. But we made it to the North entrance after fighting the Black Ops. As we were about to leave, the man in the suit showed up again and helped Apple Bloom to get home. Gordon went to the Lambda Complex to close the portal. ” “Sounds like you have been through a nightmare.” Elsa couldn’t believe it. “This operation had nothing to do with Semper Fi. It was FUBAR from the beginning if not way behind. Anyway, the consequences of the Black Mesa Incident were massive. Gordon managed to close the portal but it caused Portal Storms. They create a multitude of portals to other dimensions. The Combine, an immense inter-dimensional empire, got interested in it and took over earth in 7 hours. Survived military personnel were turned into their soldiers with brainwashing, including me. Anyone who was not worth it was killed or turned into a drone, to put it mildly. “Also, the Combine deployed a Suppression Field, which prevented human procreation. Dr. Breen, the former Administrator of Black Mesa, negotiated a surrender and became the Administrator of Earth. As the USA was almost destroyed, citizens were relocated to Europe.” Mia continued while patting her daughter. “I and Jacob got relocated to City 17. A city in Eastern Europe which name I can’t remember. Citizens were granted the minimum of what they needed to survive, such as a standardized diet and home. The Combine founded Civil Protection, their police forces. Jacob joined them as we got better meals, a better home, and life. 20 years passed when we met Apple Bloom again, while in Equestria, only 2 months passed.” “The more you know,” Aiden commented. It turned out, that a malfunctioning teleport from Dr. Kleiner, also a survivor of Black Mesa, teleported her here when she was sleeping. My husband found her and brought her home. He introduced her to Barney Calhoun, also a former security guard and member of Civil Protection. After that, CP’s found her and took her away but Kleiner's teleport had again a malfunction, saving her. Gordon found her as he heard for Black Mesa East, a resistance base. On the way, Jacob joined them.” “How did Gordon return?” Ian asked curiously. “That man in the suit offered him a job and put him into stasis, saying that he was the right man in the wrong place. Gordon told me that he had to travel to foot as Kleiner’s pet interrupted the teleport.” “Creepy.” Ruby finished her meal. Jacob told his part. “At Black Mesa East, we met Eli Vance, his daughter Alyx and Dr. Judith Mossman who were also survivors of Black Mesa. Alyx showed us a weapon invented by the resistance as the Combine attacked. We got separated from Alyx and had to fight our way through Ravenholm. It was a former mining town and later, a Resistance stronghold located in the Wasteland. It was previously inhabited by refugees who escaped from the Combine-controlled City 17 to join the resistance. The Combine discovered years ago and… let’s just say it suffered a similar fate as Sunny Town.” Mitta saw the fear in Ruby’s eyes and hugged her as Jacob told the rest, his voice steady, but uncomfortable. “With the help of Father Grigori, the priest of the town, we got outside and to a resistance base called ‘Shorepoint Base.’ Alyx told via radio that her father got captured and brought to Nova Prospekt, an old run-down prison that was, according to Alyx, transformed into ‘something much worse’ by the Combine. Gordon letf with a buggy while we stayed and rested.” “The Combine attacked the base. I was one of the soldiers who led the attack. During the fight, I got hit in the head. It didn’t kill me but I suffered a head injury. Overwatch Soldiers also known as Combine Soldiers by Citizens have no previous memories of their human life and that they are incapable of resisting, disobeying orders, and going rogue. Yet, that injury caused some memories to come back.” Konrad explained. “They didn’t hurt you, have they?” Ruby asked with worry about her friend. “No, they didn’t hurt me. Breen was very nice to me and sent me home. At the same time, Freeman destroyed Nova Prospekt, starting an Uprising.” “Shortly after it started, I was sent in with an Elite Soldier who was about to kill her, but when I saw her drawing, I remembered who I really was and saved her. We made our way to Kleiner's lab. They stayed while I was fighting on the streets.” The former Marine finished his part, so Mia could tell her part of the story. “A week passed. I was trained as a medic. Gordon and Alyx returned. The teleport was very slow but for Gordon and Alyx it was like a few seconds. Mossman betrayed them and brought Eli to Breen. Alyx wanted to bring Kleiner and Apple Bloom to a safer place but Kleiner refused until he found his pet. Apple Bloom saw it and chased it outside. With no other option left, we protected her as we were joining the fighting resistance fighters to meet up with Konrad. As Gordon went a separate way, the Combine overwhelmed and captured us. As Gordon arrived, Mossman freed us as she was a triple agent and Breen was about to kill Alyx and Eli. While Eli and Mossman left, we hunted Breen down. Gordon and Konrad destroyed the teleport he was about to use. This, however, destabilized the structure of the whole building. I can’t remember what happened after the explosion, only that I, my husband, Gordon, and Alyx were outside while Konrad and Apple Bloom were still inside. Dr. Kleiner told us that the core of the Citadel was close to collapse and that the explosion could be large enough to level the whole of City 17, and that the only possible way to survive would be to re-enter the Citadel and slow the core's progression toward meltdown. So we went inside to save our friend and daughter and to stabilize the core. For some reason, the Combine tried to blow the core. Also, Alyx downloaded a message from Mossman. We also met the leaders of the Combine. They’re called ‘Combine Advisors.”’ “Creepy,” Lilly commented, shivering only at the name of it. “Yes, it was. We even met the drones face to face. The Combine hunted us for the data Alyx took, but we managed to get on a train and escaped. Unfortunately, the train derailed, forcing us to go on foot. After fighting through dark, deserted, underground parking garages and tunnels, we got to the surface. We saw a looping message from Dr. Kleiner that the destruction of the core damaged the reactors in any other Citadel. That meant that the Combine were cut off and the Suppression field was shut down. We fought our way to a resistance outpost. On the way, we learned that the data was very important but I, my husband, Apple Bloom, and Konrad were free to go. Barney told us that he and other survivors were preparing to move to a train station in order to escape City 17. We took another way and moved through a derelict hospital to draw the remaining Combine forces away from the refugees. The Combine Soldiers were only focused on Gordon and Alyx ignoring us almost completely. When we reached the train station, Konrad and Gordon escorted the other refugees. After that was done, Konrad boarded with us the train while Alyx and Gordon stayed behind to lure the Combine away from us. Exhausted, we fell asleep in the train. While we were sleeping, Princess Celestia and Luna found her and teleported us to Equestria. As Apple Bloom’s family offered us to be a part of it, we accepted. Celestia even found a spell that made us younger again so we can enjoy every minute.” Mia hugged her daughter tightly. “Sounds like you have been through a lot. I had difficulties not to break down when I met Josef.” Tiara explained, taking a deep breath. “As you know I was the school bully. After I changed, a colt named Night Star became the new bully. After an argument, he fired a spell at me. I found myself near a destroyed building. I hide in it after I heard an explosion.” Josef patted her. “Let me tell it for you, okay?” He asked, she nodded. “Unlike in Helmut’s and Johann’s universe, Germany was close to defeat. In April 1945, the reds were close to Berlin. The defeat was inevitable, but surrendering was not an option for the Führer. He ordered to defend Berlin to the last man and bullet. I was just 20 back then. Similar to Jacob and Mia, I and my wife wanted to be parents but we decided to wait until the war was over. She tried to get out of Berlin. “When I found Tiara, I promised to get her out of this warzone, as I cared for children. We decided to go to the Tiergarten Flak tower but our convoy was ambushed. I escaped with her and stayed the night at a V2-Rocket Facility. We were awoken by sirens and explosion as the Facility was about to blow. We barely escaped with our lives. We passed out and came to in the Kaiser-Friedrich Museum. A soldier brought us here and explained that Berlin wasn’t a ghost town anymore. The Reds had broken through our lines. I patrolled through the Museum as an intruder held me at gunpoint. It was the Desert Ghost, a famous Allied sniper known for his work in Africa. He spared me and said I should head west and to go when he detonated the bridge as the reds came. However, we were stopped by a fanatical officer. He brought us to the Opernplatz for immediate execution. For desertion. The Sniper saved us. His name was Karl. Together with another man, we fought our way to the library where the shot came. As we reached it, we noticed that the man was bleeding. We had no time as the Russians came. I helped Karl to hold them off. We were successful but the man died. But he managed to say one word: Tabun.” “What’s that?” Lilly asked curiously. “I’ll come to that later. After we left we arrived in the evening at the Flak tower where we met Elsa and her kids.” They smiled at him. “Here, Tiara told me about Night Star. Elsa’s husband died in the battle of Stalingrad. Also, I got a message that my wife had not made it. As I realized that Tiara was everything I had left, I swore that I will get her home safe and sound or die. For some reason, an alarm went off. As we evacuated, the Russians took us prisoner. They took us to their command post in Karlshorst. A young Russian named Chernov had compassion with us. He told me that his comrades were cold-blooded. Chernov was a pacifist by nature just like me. He stepped in as the Commissar wanted to kill her. Again, Karl saved us. He found a paper that exclaimed what Tabun was.” “And what?” Ian asked. “Tabun is a nerve agent. Powerful and lethal. Breathe it, touch it, even look at it and your body shut down in all sorts of gruesome ways. A chemical weapon specialist named Wolff had a plan. His plan was to fill with the Russians the last of Germany’s V2 rockets with the stuff. Their target was London. The Reds would make it like Germany’s final revenge. I don’t know if he was able to stop them.” “Makes me wonder if their high command knew about it,” Ford commented, not able to believe that the Reds would do something like this. “Maybe Konrad, maybe not. After that, I and Tiara went to Kreuzberg where I used to live. When we arrived, the Battle of Berlin was at its height. There were Close quarters on every street, snipers on every rooftop and tanks on every bridge and square. Before we could react, the Reds attacked. She was shot in the gut but with the help of a medic, I was able to safe her. As it couldn’t get any worse, a rocket barrage was aimed where we were, but we escaped into the metro. While we were inside, the metro was flooded. Even this time we survived. We were on a truck that was en route to Köpenick. As we arrived, the Reds attacked, catching us by surprise. They gunned everyone down without mercy. We survived thanks to Princess Celestia. But we were unconscious. The shock and Combat stress we all suffered caused us to have a very intensive nightmare. It was similar to what you and Ruby had experienced, Helmut. As Elsa was similar to my wife and me to her husband, we married and lived happily ever since, right, children?” “Yes, daddy!” They hugged him. “We stayed here as we knew how difficult the post-war years would be.” “Well, that leaves only us.” Silver Spoon started. “My story is similar to Tiara’s but I didn’t land in a warzone.” She also took a deep breath.
Chapter 6 Helping a friend in needChapter 6: Helping a friend in need She woke up in the morning. Spike was about to walk in but she managed to hide the plushie versions. “Twilight, I heard you crying, are you alright?” He asked with concern. “Everything is alright.” She said, hiding her sadness. “If you say so.” He left, not bother to think about it. The young princess had head buried within her forehooves and shook with light sobs and cried herself to sleep again. It was noon when the others returned from the tour. “That was fun and interesting!” Dinky hopped up and down. “Yes, it was. Hey Spike, what’s up?” Johann asked. “I’m good but I’m worried about Twilight. After you all left, I heard her crying her heart out for some reason. I tried to talk to her, but she refuses to tell me.” He told with a concerned expression. “Nothing the Element of Laugher can fix!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed. “Ah like your optimism, Pinkie, but when even she refuses to talk with Spike who is as close to her as we, Ah don’t think we have a chance.” Applejack realized. “Maybe, Princess Celestia can help us? Something tells me that can help with that.” Dinky suggested, her horn glowing like a bulb. “Good idea, Dinky. As Twilight would say: ‘Spike, take a note.’” Rarity said to him. “As you wish my princess.” They all knew about his crush on her. Blushing lightly, she started to dictate. “Dear Princess Celestia, After the incident yesterday, Twilight acts sad and depressive. She refuses to talk with any of us and we are worried about her. If it’s alright with you princess, we want to talk with you about the reason why Twilights acts like this so suddenly. Sincerely your subjects, Mane six, CMC and Humans.” “Send it.” The former HECU member ordered. “Yes, Corporal!” With a quick breath of Spike, the message vanished in his green flames. Princess Celestia was with her sister on the balcony enjoyed some tea and the fresh air. “I can’t explain how this wormhole opened, even Discord, but our young human subjects can have fun together.” Luna smiled, happy for them. I knew Lulu. I’m happy that they have each other. New friendships can be made.” Celestia smiled as a scroll appeared on the table almost landing in her cup of tea. She read the scroll. Luna noticed that her sister’s expression became sad and guilty. “What’s wrong Tia?” The princess of the night asked with concern. Celestia took a deep breath. “It’s something personal. Something I now wish I had never done.” She was about to cry as Luna hugged her. “Shh, Tia. I told you already, I forgive for what happened 1000 years ago.” She wiped a tear out of her sister’s eye. “It’s not that. This happened before your return when Twilight was still a filly…” After Celestia told her younger sister what happened back there, Luna asked, “Why couldn’t they stay as our human citizens could stay here?” Celestia sniffed. “Well Luna, unlike now, the ponies weren’t ready for this back then as they are today. I thought I could prevent Twilight from having the same feeling I had when I lost you, but I only have achieved the contrary.” “Shh, don’t blame yourself. What about I get her parents and brother while you inform them?” “Good Idea, sister.” Celestia smiled weakly as Luna left. Twilight’s friends were waiting as Spike burped a scroll out. “That was quick.” Rainbow commented. Spike read it aloud. “My dear subjects, I will arrive in a quarter of an hour with Twilight’s parents and brother and my niece as the reason is very personal. I can understand your concern for her. Princess Celestia” “Well, let’s prepare for her arrival.” Forren had much experience thanks to Lord Vader. Later, as Princess Celestia arrived, the soldiers saluted while the other bowed. Even Ian and Tokrin were here. “Welcome your Highness!” The soldiers said together. “At ease and rise.” At a table, Fluttershy asked, “What’s wrong with Twilight? That isn’t her.” The shy Pegasus had never seen her friend like this before. “Let me tell it this way: It happened when she was just a filly and it was similar to your stories, children. I knew it would come one day. That’s why I brought her parents, her brother, and niece with me. It’s a very long story.” Velvet started to tell, “One day, my daughter was using a spell. It went out of control and she… vanished!” It wasn’t surprising for the others. “We were worried sick but luckily, a human named James found her and took care of her. He had lost his family in the war and was overjoyed when he took care of her. However, a young boy kidnapped her and wanted to give her to the Russians. James sacrificed his life to save her.” Everyone gasped. “At least he’s reunited with those he loved. When did that happened and where?” Josef asked curious. “It was in 1960 where Germany lost the war like in the universe you’re come from. We managed to save his life. We’d liked it if he stayed in Equestria like you but Equestria wasn’t ready for this back then.” Celestia explained. “Can we bring him here?” Nina asked. “That’s the problem. Only a few years passed here but were James lives, 54 years passed.” All had their mouths wide open. “So, he’s deceased?” The dragon asked with worry. “No Spike. He’s still alive. But that’s difficult to explain, so I brought Luna to show it to you, ok?” “Yes, your Highness.” They all said, ready to see the background. “Ok, close your eyes.” Both Princesses combined their magic and everyone vanished in a white light.
Chapter 7 ReunionChapter 7: Reunion As everyone opened their eyes, they found themselves in what appeared to be Canterlot, being transparent. “Alright, Smarty Pants, let’s do this!” The voice of a young filly tore them out, seeing Twilight in her filly years with her doll in the garden. “Ahh, isn’t she cute?” Fluttershy asked with a smile. “Yep! As cute as a Pie! ” Pinkie Pie agreed. The purple unicorn started to lit up her horn and it glowed a white light, becoming stronger and stronger and her expression from determined to worried. “What? No! It isn’t supposed to do that! Stop!” The filly yelled before the light engulfed her and the doll and they vanished. The scene vanished to the filly lying unconscious in an alley, gasping as she woke up, looking frantically around. “Where am I? Daddy? Mommy? Brother?” Twilight called out before it started to rain. After a few minutes, she started to cry, her eyes slowly becoming red “Mommy…Daddy...” Then suddenly a male voice called out, “Hello, is there someone?” The filly didn’t respond to it, completely lost in her confusion. A man wearing a blue suit and red tie walked into the ally, having a round face, with a slightly muscular build, his hair was blond and his eyes blue. Frank looked at the man in surprise. “I know that man…that’s James! We served together in the Africa Corps!” “The apple does not fall far from the tree,” Jacobs commented. The moment Twilight saw the man, she started to panic, shaking in fear. “ple-ple, please don’t hurt me…” It was understandable, she had never seen a human before. James’ expression changed to sympathy and he kneeled down. “I won’t hurt you, it’s raining and you are freezing, come with me sweetheart, you can sleep at my house.” He spoke with a calming voice. A loud thunder came before Twilight could answer, causing her to startle and cry harder. “Shh, its okay, I’m here for you.” The man spoke in a comforting voice. “But Sir, I don’t want to get your Suit wet.” The filly replied, shivering from the cold. “My Suit? It’s only water it dries anyway. I don’t want that you get a cold, your safety is more important to me than my Suit.” He gave her a comforting smile and gently picked her up. “That is a nice act from him,” Fluttershy said with pride. “Yes, he was known for his caring towards children and I highly respected him for that, feeling honored to know him,” Frank commented as they saw how the German brought the filly to his house, dried her and made her some warm food and drink, which she enjoyed. Then they both introduced each other, with the unicorn telling about Equestria and James about his past. “Yes I’m a veteran, Twilight. I served in two World Wars. The First World War, also known the Great War, started 1914. I was a Medic but was deployed as a sniper later in the war. He pointed to a picture that showed him in an Imperial German Army uniform with his rifle. “I did never leave a comrade behind and for that, I earned great respect and my first award the iron cross. It was given to Soldiers with great braveness. But I lost it when I tried to save a friend”. Then he pointed to a second picture what was a group photo of him and his comrades. “In the War when I was wounded, I met my future wife,” The third picture showed their wedding, “We married after the war was over in 1918. Germany lost the War but is not really true.” Twilight said, “Yes, I read that Germany was forced to sign a contract.” “Yes, that’s right the contract of Versailles. The post-war Years were difficult because of the economic problems in 1923 and 1929 but my wife and me managed to get over it. 1939 the Second World War started. This time, I was a pilot. A Stuka pilot to be exact.” A fourth picture showed him in pilot uniform, “In the Time between 1939 and 1941, I earned the Iron cross again. I was wounded again in 1943 and was sent home. My Wife had wonderful News: She was Pregnant!” Twilight had a big smile on her face when she heard this. “Our Son was born in September 1943.” The fifth Picture showed his wife, their newborn Son in his wife’s arms and him, this time in a Heer Uniform instead of a Luftwaffe uniform. The sixth and last picture was again a group photo. “Jessie, I don’t want to interrupt you but why are you wearing a different uniform on the last two pictures?” Twilight asked confused. “Did nothing stand in your book that the Luftwaffe was defeated?” He asked her. “Oh yes, I totally forget this.” was her answer. “Because of this, I was in the Heer again where I earned the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. Only the best and braves Soldiers could earn this award. It was also one of the highest awards you could get, back in the Third Reich. The last War year, 1945 was the worst year I had ever in my entire Life.” He said with a sad tone. “What happened, Jessie?” asked Twilight with an innocent Voice that only a Child could have and he took a deep breath, trying not to break down. “My family died.” "I’m so sorry Jessie, please, please, don’t hate me," Twilight begged with a guilty tone in her Voice close to crying. With a weak smile he looked at the filly. “Twilight,” He said while petting her Mane, “Why should I hate you, you couldn’t knew that.” The children gasped upon hearing this. “That’s so sad…” Pinch said with a look of sympathy. “Yes. I knew his wife, she was a friendly woman, always wanting to help others in need. And it’s a pity about their son too.” Frank also sounded sad about it. “I heard about Würzburg back then, it was really horrible. We both know his pain, Frank.” Josef reminded him. “Yeah.” They then saw how James explained his name. “And my Name? Well Twilight, I was born in the USA My Mother was German and a Nurse. My Father was a Soldier and American. He named me after the famous Cowboy Jesse James. He was famous for drawing his revolver faster than everybody else. I was also famous for drawing my sidearm very fast when I had to. That’s also how I get my nickname. I had also a little Brother called John but he was reported missing in World War 1. He was never found.” Twilight had a fascinated look on her Face but it changed to a sad expression He mentioned his brother. “Twilight you don’t have to be…” "No it’s not that, I just miss my brother.” She replied sobbing. “Shh, I’m sure your family will find you, Twilight.” He gave her a smile ”Rel- Really?” She asked between sobs. “Of course. And until then, you can stay with me, no matter how long it’s going to take.” “But I do not want to cause you any problems.” She spoke to him with concern. “Twilight, you could not survive on your own. Plus after 15 Years of living alone, I would be glad about having some company.” She hugged him after he said this. “Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, James!” She cried out happily. The three Vietnamese brothers looked at each other as this reminded them when they had been separated. The group watched with smiles as Jessie and Twilight chatted about their cultures before the man brought the filly to bed. “His caring for her honors him.” Sato sounded proud. “Yes, it does.” Shining Armor replied with a smile. The next memory showed how Jessie comforted Twilight after she had a nightmare, followed by showing her the town and enjoying some ice cream after she had slipped and overstretched her knee. Then her caretaker told her why he still looked so long for a man born in 1895. “Well Twilight, it’s difficult to explain but I try my best. I was born in 1895. In 1916 when I was 21, I had an accident with Poison gas. I survived but for some reason, I couldn’t age anymore. I suspected that the Gas had changed my DNA. I was also able to take more punishment than a normal human could ever take. If I’m hurt, the wound heals as fast as it would regenerate. I can’t explain it how it works.” The filly was speechless with her mouth wide open. “That-That is amazing!” “I have seen many things in my medical career but that is new to me.” Helping Heart was fascinated to hear this. “It was even for me when I was told,” Celestia added as the memory continued. The five friends of Twilight watched in confusion as the filly befriend two boys that were the sons of two friends of James. “I thought Twilight never had other friends before than us.” Rarity wondered. “Well, actually, she did, with me, Lemon Hearts, Twinkle Shine, and Moon Dancer.” Colgate pointed out, “Though I suppose she did become friends with them to learn more about humanity and to get over the homesickness.” “Could be.” They gasped in shock to see that the young unicorn got pushed into the mud by a boy with untidy hair, broken glasses and a brow that looked perpetually sweaty. “So the little freak and his useless friends cry for help like the little babies you are,” He said taunting. Twilight couldn’t say anything, because anytime she tried, the Boy pushed her into the mud. “Let me get this jerk!” Rainbow yelled in anger but the orange mare had grabbed her tail. “Calm down, it’s in the past, we can’t do anything.” They all nodded as the man warned the boy to let her go, only for the latter to trying to brawl with him, being fully overconfident, getting quickly defeated by James. “He still got it.” Frank was impressed. “Poor Twilight though.” Fluttershy watched with sadness as the filly cried, her was fur dirty and she had multiple scratches and bruises. Yet, the Pegasus smiled weakly as the humans took care of her. It was surprising for the group that Günther’s friends quickly promised to help Twilight in any way they could after being told of her origin. “They are very loyal friends.” The blue Pegasus was fascinated. “Yes, they are. I could tell back then that Twilight had been safe with them.” Celestia said with a smile of her own. The group smiled as they all saw how Twilight quickly recovered and played with her friends before her family and Celestia arrived. “I wonder, sister, why did you choose to watch his past instead of getting Twilight home right away?” Luba asked confused, tilting her head. “I admit I was curious and it sounded interesting.” The White Alicorn replied. Everyone was amazed as they saw everything, yet the parents covered the eyes of their children as the gas accident happened, with James coughing and vomiting as the gas surrounded him, his eyes watering. “That must have been horrible…”Miro said with pity and shock. “Yeah. Frankly, I wonder that becoming ageless didn’t affect his sanity.” Becker was fascinated. “I guess it was his love to his wife that kept him sane, though I never got to ask him about it,” Lange said, having to smile as he saw how his friend was becoming a father. Then they saw the day before the death of his family. “They need more Personnel in the hospital in Würzburg. I was ordered to help out for a while. Since you are back on the front in a few days, I have no choice but to take John with me. But on the bright Side, I can visit some friends over there.” His wife informed him. “I know Lena. Just be careful, I don’t want to lose you too. Hans is in captivity of the Western forces, Müller is presumed dead and Richthofen was sent to the Eastern front.” He replied with “Don’t worry about me; Würzburg isn’t as important for the industry as Dresden or Augsburg.” She kissed him “Goodbye, my love.” He called out as his wife and son walked away. Then they saw how the town was bombarded the next day, with James watching from a distance, having a worried expression. “There’s nothing we can do. We can only hope and pray that your family will survive this.” An elderly man said to him, being a member of the Volkssturm. In the aftermath, James looked after his family, walking through the debris, a scared expression on his face. Upon reaching the hospital, he stopped and stared. It was completely destroyed. A corpse of a Nurse who was holding a baby in her arms was in the debris. James collapsed on his knees and cried. Dinky sniffed. “Those poor people…” Celestia let an own tear escape as she said, Yes. It broke him. But still, he tried to save the life of others, as like you, Josef, he fought in the battle of Berlin.” “He did?” Becker asked surprised as the memory continued, seeing that Günther had exactly the same conversation as he had with a fellow soldier before finding Diamond Tiara. He then helped a desperate mother to get their babies out of the city. And I thought I’ve been through hell…” Ford commented. “What happened afterward?” Luna asked her sister. Celestia sighed. “The bully of Twilight kidnapped her to sell her to the Soviets but Jessie managed to save her.” She showed how the veteran came to the location Twilight was held and defeated the boy with non-lethal means, and then fought two squads of soviets off that had arrived with his rifle, blood splattered from his chest but due to the adrenaline, he didn’t notice it at all until it was over. Again, Dinky sniffed, followed by the other children as James was collapsing and said to Twily, “I… I wish this had never happened or I saw this coming. I wish I… could spend more time with you. But I will… always…be…in… your heart.” He used his last strength to point with his hand to her heart before he succumbed to his injuries. “At least he died for a good cause,” Frank said with sadness, having his head lowered. “But…didn’t you say he’s still alive?” Luna wondered. “Yes, he is. I took him to Equestria and my best doctors managed to fix him up, as I knew Twily would fall into a deep depression as I did after I had to banish you, Luna.” They then saw how he recovered, celebrating with Celestia and the others before going to bed. In the next morning, a guard entered the room, Scootaloo recognized the stallion. “Daddy, is that you?” “Yes, dear. In fact, I was actually one of the guards that escorted the princess to earth.” “Sir, Breakfast is ready. I am here to escort you to the dining room.” His past self-said to James, who nodded. “Lead the way. What’s your name?” “Private Blizzard Storm. Actually, I am a recruit.” He blushed. “Why did you join?” “Similar to your friend, to impress my marefriend. She has an orange mane and tail and a torquiest coat, light blue eyes and as Cutie Mark a heart with a blue ribbon tied around it. Her name is Misty Breeze. My father was a guard too and he told me that it is a great honor to serve in the royal guard, and that every mare loves a stallion in uniform or golden armor.” “That’s true.” They shared a laugh. “Good luck to you, Storm.” “Thank you.” “So you did join to impress me? Misty asked, causing her husband to lower his head in embarrassment. “Hey, cheer up, it worked back then, something you can be proud of.” She added with a smile, the others chuckled. “What happened afterward?” The doctor asked curiously. “Well, we visited him to Christmas in the same year.” Celestia lit up her horn and showed the wonderful evening she and the Sparkles spent with him. They warmed themselves at the fireplace and gave the humans presents, James got a fancy watch. “That was such a nice idea of you, sister.” Luna praised her. “Thank you. Unfortunately after that, diplomatic and politic times made it impossible for me to visit him again and Twilight had to focus on her studies but never forget him, being distracted by her tasks until the wormhole incident reminded her again of it. But I managed to look regular how his life went.” “What happened? Shining armor asked. Celestia took a deep breath. “See for yourself.” She casted a spell and TV screen appeared in front of them all, showing Günther in a General uniform, notable by the peaked cap, which had gold colored Lugs, drawstring and buttons, his Insignia was bright-red. The Oak leaves wreath and national insignia were also golden, his trousers had Crimson leg strips. “From the very first time I put on a uniform, I knew I had accepted a burden that would last a lifetime. And even when I left our country’s military behind, my obligation for service remained.” He spoke in a neutral voice. “That obligation is one I and all the men and woman of the Harmonious Guard take seriously. We will serve with honor, and dignity.” Several men and woman in silver uniforms stepped up behind him, saluting as a flag with a silver and gold badge with Twilight Sparkle's purple star in the center appeared in front of them. “The Harmonious Guard. Security you can count on.” Another male voice said and it ended. “Harmonious Guard?” Edward asked confused. “Do you know them?” Johann asked. “Yes, kinda. Back in the day when my father was with the Diamond Dogs in the 1980s, he told me that his boss was helping the Guard out on one of their FOBs when it was just created, I think they got inspired by the Diamond Dogs.” The former mercenary explained. “I always thought James had what it takes to be an officer and leader, but that…is quite impressive.” Frank said in fascination. “Yet, I can’t see why he would become a mercenary. It isn’t the same as a soldier, and money was never his interest.” He wondered conflicted. “Yes, an old friend of him thought the same.” The white pony said as the scene changed to an office where James was talking with an elderly man, appearing to be in his late 60s, having grey hair and blue eyes. “Remember when we served together in Africa?” He asked Günther, who smiled and chuckled. “Gosh yes, I can still remember how you earned the Iron Cross back then, Konrad.” “And you had everything figured out. I always thought you could become an officer like me.” Jessie laughed. “Not much has changed there.” “I always wondered that you stayed a private over the war and never got promoted. You were always good at helping others. Inspiring them, they’re always willing to follow.” “I got some good speechwriters.” James grinned. “Knock it off, James. You write it yourselves and you always have. And they’ll always follow you. They’d follow you to the gates of hell if you’re asked. I’m impressed, you’ve done a hell of a job, Jessie.” “Hey, I’m not done yet. As Rommel said once: ‘If I had to take hell, I would use the Australians to take it and the New Zealanders to hold it. Winning the men's confidence requires much of a commander. He must exercise care and caution, look after his men, live under the same hardships, and-above all- apply self-discipline. But once he has their confidence, his men will follow him through hell and high water.’” “Indeed and you took everything by heart.” The elderly man praised him. “Wow…He became a mercenary?” Lange asked, surprised that his friend was able to pull something like this off. “Yes. During the final stages of the Second World War, he heard rumors about an underground warehouse with secret technologies. After Twilight was back home, he decided to check if those rumors were fake or real. And to his surprise, it was real. Those technologies saw little to no action in the war, with the warehouse containing production facilities and ways to keep this all updated and served.” Celestia explained. “Most impressive. But why would he do this?” Ian wondered. Frank put a hand to his chin. “If I remember correctly, he told me once he was always a soldier, not able to think of a different work. And I guess he didn’t want that this all would get into the wrong hands.” The white mare nodded. “You are correct. Apart from performing military tasks in war or crisis areas, they are also providing security of various types and transport of all sorts of items. Even government official hire them for security. Its honest business but…” She paused for a moment. “This all reminds me of the leader of the PMC that provided security before me and my sister came and founded the Royal Guard. He was an honest pony but power slowly corrupted him, thus forcing us to…remove him and end his PMC.” Her voice was slightly shaken. “I’m sorry, your highness that I woke bad memories.” Lange lowered his head. “It’s alright, it’s in the past now. I’m just worried that…” She took a deep breath. “James might be corrupted by power too.” Luna put a wing around her older sister. “Sis, you said 54 years passed on earth since the incident happened, and he founded the PMC in the 1980s. With so much time passed and still being active, I doubt he will if he has keep it under control for so long.” Celestia smiled weakly. “Yes, maybe I worry too much. There is also another thing.” She lit up her horn and the scene showed the veteran watching TV. To be exact, it was a show called “My little Pony: Friendship is Magic”. The first episode was on the schedule, it showed how Twilight got sent to Ponyville by Celestia, met her friend’s and defeated Nightmare Moon. The ponies and humans watched in confusion, their mouths wide open. “Oh...my…” Fluttershy blushed, hiding her face with her wings. “That is…” Pinkie mumbled, “Awesome! We got fans!” She had a wide grin. Celestia chuckled. “Indeed, in fact, you have a lot. The show is intended for girls but it became very popular among boys and adults, called Bronies and Pegasisters. James himself is a fan and so are many of the mercenaries under his command, thus getting the nickname Brony Army.” “The more you know…”Rainbow Dash was fascinated. “I just don’t know how I could him bring to Equestria without raising suspicion among his fellow mercenaries.” The white Alicorn replied with concern. Luna started to smile. “I might have an idea for this.” Celestia smiled. “Thank you, Lulu. I try to visit him, you should prepare for his arrival.” Pinkie saluted. “Will do!” And Luna casted a spell that brought her and the others back to reality, while Celestia casted a spell that brought her to Earth. As she opened her eyes, she found herself in front of an office door, no humans in sight. She took a deep breath and exhaled before knocking on the door. “Come in.” A male voice said from the other side. The mare opened it and walked in, seeing James sitting at a desk, doing paperwork. “Yes?” He asked as he looked up, his expression became surprised upon seeing the princess of the Sun. He slowly smiled. “Princess Celestia, it is nice to see you again after such a long time.” “The pleasure is all mine, James.” She returned the smile. “But I’m afraid my reason to visit you is not a pleasant one.” She then told him about Twilight, his expression became serious. “I suspected she would miss me but I never thought it would become so bad. But if she needs me, so be it.” “But what about your work?” She asked with worry. “This won’t be a problem.” He replied and raised his arm, showing a miniature, portable, Terminal-like device on it. “Linda, I just got called to an urgent, important meeting, I need you to cover my absence.” He spoke into it. “Will do, commander!” A female voice replied. “That is convenient. Now, cover your eyes.” Celestia lit up her horn and a white light surrounded them. As he opened his eyes, he found himself on a big room, which he assumed belonged to Twilight’s castle. “Wait here.” The princess told him and left the room. A few moments later, it opened again and in a flash, a pink Earth pony stormed in, almost eye to eye as she looked at him with a smile. “I am Pinkie Pie and Welcome in Ponyville!” James forced a smile, knowing that she didn’t meant to be rude. “Pleased to meet you too, Pinkie Pie, but could you please step back?” She gave an embarrassed smile. “Of course, sorry, I forget this sometimes.” “It’s nice to see you again, James.” Twilight’s mother smiled as she walked in with the rest of the family. “Likewise.” He replied and bowed as he saw Princess Luna. “Your highness.” “Rise. It’s an honor to meet you, James.” “The honor is all mine.” He then took notice of several other ponies behind her, slowly, the shadows of several humans appeared, much to his surprise. Adults and children of both genders, one man was wearing Stormtrooper armor from Star Wars. They smiled at him. The man instantly recognized one of them, seeing the brown hair and green eyes. “Frank, I thought you were a goner at Stalingrad.” James said with a smile, although he was a bit confused to see him again. “Apparently not. It’s a long story though.” He quickly told his friend how he ended up in Equestria and the others made short introductions. While it was strange, James wasn’t exactly foreign to this, due to the Brony fandom having stories with humans in Equestria. He then made his way to Twilight. The purple unicorn sniffed and sobbed, missing the man who helped her when she was a foal. He had been years but despite her studies, he never forgot him. It knocked on the door. ”Please…leave me alone…” It opened regardless. “That’s not the Twilight I used to know.” Her ears twitched, she knew that voice. Getting up, she saw a man with blue eyes and blond hair, a round face, with a slightly muscular build leaning against the door, smiling at her. She blinked. “J-James? Is that really you?” She asked in disbelief. “In flesh and blood.” He replied. “JAMES!” He rammed into him for a hug, throwing him over. “I missed you so much!” He returned it. “I missed you too, Twily.” “We should celebrate this.” Pinkie suggested with tears of joy, causing both to grin. “Right on!” They all enjoyed the party, eating cake and other sweets, dancing. It made Twilight’s friends smile that she was finally reunited again with the man who helped her. She was fascinated by his story and that he had founded a PMC: Late in the evening, James walked out of the balcony, watching the sunset. “My old friend, can I ask you something?” Lange joined him with Twilight. “Shoot.” “Why did you become a mercenary? You always said you were a soldier. Both things are familiar, yet not the same.” Günther took a deep breath. “When the Bundeswehr was first founded, I served to protect my country from another devastating war, ready to defend it. Ironic was, when the Bundeswehr was founded, its officers and NCOs came almost without exception from the Wehrmacht - partly from the Waffen-SS. The latter the very man the allies tried to punish after the war was over. And that led that many of them could still do as they pleased, being unpunished or being corrupt. Also, the Basic Law stated that the Bundeswehr should under no circumstances operate within the Federal Republic. It was not until 1968 - the possibility of disasters in mind - with the emergency laws created the opportunity to use the Bundeswehr inside. A mistake, as it dangerous disasters, the military is sometimes the only hope. And many criticized the idea of a new military, thus we soldiers rarely saw respect, which hurt me. When I discovered the secret technologies, I knew at once they couldn’t be allowed to fall into the heads of the soviets. So I got the idea of the Harmonious Guard by using those technologies. Originally a militia that operated within the Federal Republic, it became known and respected, changed into the PMC it is today. I only pursue the goal to make the world safer, not for money.” He sighed. “When the regular emergency services are overwhelmed, the military must step in to help. But, after I served in the Bundeswehr, I wanted to leave the military behind, yet failed at weaning myself from the battlefield. Then I realized how I could solve this. An Army without a country. Providing military force for anyone who needs them, regardless of nations or ideologies. I help others to prevent sharing my fate.” Frank thought for a moment. “James, I must say, your idea of this…really suits you.” “Yes it does, you do what you’re best at, being a soldier.” Twilight smiled. In the next morning, Spike walked up to Jessie. “Mr. James, we never met but I want to give you my gratitude for helping Twilight back then.” The dragon said to him with a grateful expression. “I did only what was right, Spike.” As it was time for James to go home, Twilight asked him with worry, “Will I ever see you gain, to due your work?” She knew it was complicated. “Don’t worry, Twilight, I have a solution for this.” Luna said and levitated a small necklace that looked like the Elements of harmony into his hands. “This is a Heximal Pendant, it will allow you to travel to Equestria at any time. I modified it so that only you can use it and come back around the same time you left or with only a few minutes passed on Earth, in case there’s an emergency in your organization.” “Thank you, your highness.” He then gave Twily a goodbye hug. “I’ will visit you regularly, I‘ll promise.” “I will miss you, James! Goodbye.” She returned it before gently letting go and he pressed a button on the necklace, and he vanished in a white light. “I see you later, Daddy.” She spoke to herself, already eager to meet again, her friends smiled, proud that they helped her. This was a new era for all of them. An era they would enjoy, wondering how the future would be.
Chapter 5 Silver Spoon's, Noi's, Pinch's Tootsie's and Petunia stories and plansChapter 5: Silver Spoons story and plans “Ruby Pinch accidentally zapped me as she lost control of her magic as she practiced. I found myself in an alley in a thunderstorm. Carl and his friend Aiden found me. Carl took me home and introduced me to his wife Sofia. They told me that I was in Liberty City and the year was 2008. I was told that they wanted to be parents but every attempt failed.” “So you’re also infertile?” Johann’s wife asked. “Not exactly, Nina. It was always a miscarriage. After the fifth, the doctor said another would probably kill me. As her parents died after she got her Cutie Mark, we became her parents, right sweetheart?” “Exactly!” she exclaimed. “Unlike any of you, Carl and Aiden are not soldiers but police officers of the LCPD. Daddy was a member of the Tactical Response Unit, who is called in to deal with hostage situations and such.” “Like the SWAT in our universe. Liberty City is like New York I suppose?” Mia counted two and two together. “Yeah. They showed me Algonquin the next day, which is like Manehattan here. I will never forget the view from the Rotterdam Tower.” She let out a smile. “After lunch, we went to the park where I met Aiden’s and Emily’s children, Mason and Emma. Like any other of you, we became good friends. Since I lost my parents, I asked if they could be my parents and you know the answer. We made a picnic in the park and played cops and robbers. Then we watched TV. Aiden got the Idea to show me Broker. At the police station, I met Deputy Police Commissioner McReary. I acted if I was his niece. I also met Carl’s teammates. With Aiden I patrolled Broker as his ‘partner’ but a car rammed us from behind, causing Aiden to pass out and his car crashed against a wall. I was unharmed and got out to get help. A criminal kidnapped me as I was witness of a crime. His boss was disgusted that his henchman kidnapped me and let me go as it was a misunderstanding as he kidnapped two other men. I passed out from pain as… how should I say, the boss’s pistol hit me in the gut as it accidentally went off. I woke up in the house of Mallorie Bardas. I told her about me and she called Aiden to bring me home. The next days were quiet. Mommy had to go to work because a colleague was sick. Her boss said I could come with here. I took great pleasure in the bank business and helping mommy. In the afternoon, w-we were victims of a bank robbery. I and mommy were unharmed but daddy and Aiden got hurt as the robbers shot their way out. But it wasn’t serious. They were released a few days later. Also, the doctor who took treated them was an old friend of them and said he would treat me should I get hurt. I went shopping with mommy in Northwood as we were witnesses if a kidnapping. They took me too to make sure the police wouldn’t be alerted. I was brought to a warehouse. But they didn’t hold me long, as the cousin of the kidnapped man saved us both. My savior had the name Niko and the kidnapped man was his cousin, Roman. They both were friends of Mallorie. Niko took me in his house where I stayed for the night. He brought me home the next day. We all became good friends and were also good friends of Nikos friends. One day, Deputy Police Commissioner McReary was killed by a criminal. We were invited to his funeral. At the funeral, gangsters attacked but Niko, Carl, and Aiden took care of them. After that, I had a nightmare and I ran away, only to be kidnapped by a bad guy who wanted t-to t-take my organs out!” Everyone gasped as Sofia patted her. “Anyway, Niko saved me once again. On the way to his house, we ran into a crazy guy who attacked Niko but the police took care of him. As my kidnappers had broken my rips, Niko called a friend who was a nurse who took care of me. We went bowling with Niko the next day. On the way home, fake FIB agents arrested me. They took me to a house in Northwood. One of them was careless with a cigarette and accidentally lit the house. I thought I was dead as I saw a white light and gates. Luckily, the doctor managed to revive me. I had to stay for monitoring, Mason and Emma visited me every day. My parents showed me the Statue of Happiness. It’s like the Statue of Liberty but has a coffee cup in his hand instead of a torch. Rumors say the Statue even has a beating heart.” “How did they not see this in the blueprints?” “Good question, Mia. We had much fun this evening. In the night, I had to use the bathroom as someone kidnapped me again. This time, daddy saved me. Aiden wanted me to show me his house as the Russians burned it down. Then they kidnapped me again to abduct me to Russia. But Niko took revenge on them for kidnapping his cousin. That day was also special as Roman and Mallorie married!” She exclaimed happily before trembling lightly. Sofia patted her as she continued. “The wedding was nice but a car with an angry mafia boss showed up. His goal was to kill Niko but he killed accidentally his girlfriend and injured Silver fatal. My husband and Aiden along with Niko, Roman and a friend of him hunted the boss down.” Carl continued the story. “Roman told us that his wife was pregnant and that she carried twins. If one of them would be a girl, it would be named Silver. Although the injury was fatal, Silver Spoon recovered within a week. She called me on my cell phone when I took a walk. Just then, some goons of another Russian stormed the hospital, killing the doctor and kidnapping her to bring her on their boss’s plane. Instead of Niko, a man whose identity we never found out saved her.” His wife finished it. “Also, the Russians burned our house down. I lost my job shortly after the robbery as the damage was too great. Aiden and my husband lost their jobs for hunting down her kidnapper without permission. But after that, her sister Octavia and friend Vinyl found her. They were grateful and we become her parents in Equestria. I like Ponyville as it is peaceful and quiet, not so busy like Liberty City. And we’re free from terrorists.” Sofia nuzzled Silver’s nose, causing her to giggle. “Sounds like you went through a lot. For me and Edward, it was a journey around the world.” Noi explained, taking several deep breaths to stay calm. “Similar to Scootaloo, I landed on Earth due Written Script being sick, where Edward found me. He was member of a PMC that used an advanced battlefield control system to keep the soldiers effective in battle. However, finding me caused him to get disconnected. He attempted to get me to a safe place far from danger, which almost was done but I got kidnapped by…his boss who called himself Liquid. H-he…” She couldn’t bring herself to tell it, hugging Edward for comfort. “Shh, calm down, let me tell it for you. He did something that traumatized her severely. Before I forget, this all happened in 2014. I traveled to South America to Eastern Europe, even to Alaska to find her, together with a new ally, who named himself Snake. When we found her, he took the System down. After this journey, I brought her to my home in London until her family came to bring her back home. I and my mother came to Equestria not only because we like family to her but also to help her against her trauma.” He explained in a short way, wanting to spare the others with the dark details. “Noi has really suffered the most out of us all. I’m very glad I survived what I went through with you, Frank.” The rose-colored unicorn explained, shivering at the memories. “Yeah…I served in the Afrika Corps before getting transferred to Stalingrad. Here, I found Pinch, who had landed here due to a failed spell and took care of here. It was a bloody and long fight, she had to endure everything. My squad also got help from two Russians in keeping her safe. While we managed to get most of the city under control, it had costed us many men and in the winter of 1942/43, the tide was turning and eventually, the men of my squad died one other another until only I was left, trying to get her to safety in a blizzard. Hadn’t it been for the princesses, we had never made it. As Ruby had lost her father before she was born and my wife and daughter had died in a bombing raid, I choose to become her stepfather. Funny though is, I knew two men with the names Konrad and James, we were good friends, having been in the Africa Korps together, I saw them last in my leave in August 42.” The veteran told with a steady voice, yet had a small hint of being uncomfortable. “I guess this was your salvation, I read once, that of the 260,000 men, 91,000 got took prisoners and only 6,000 returned home after the war ended in 1945, the last prisoners got released on the 1950s,” Edward told him. “Guess we have some things in common, Frank. I severed in the Imperial Japanese Army during the Pacific War, finding Tootsie while being on patrol. The reason why she landed here was similar to Diamond’s reason. During a battle, she got separated from me and my squad, where James took care of her.” Sato told them and his American friend continued. “Yes, after a…misunderstanding. As I got leave, I took her to the USA, introducing her to my daughter and wife. As for why I am her father, I used to be a unicorn with the name Helping Heart, being Lyra’s husband. I saved her from a spell, landing on Earth but got transformed into a human, Harper found me. Like with Lyra, we fell in love with each other, having our daughter Victoria. After my leave was over, Flute accidentally returned to the Pacific with me, where a…not very friendly Japanese officer captured her but with the help of Sato and his friends, we freed her but it had costed the lives of Sato’s friends. As his family had also died in a bombing raid, we offered him a place to stay. I went to Equestria to be reunited with the unicorn I love, I and my family couldn’t be any happier.” “Yes, daddy!” Tootsie and Victoria exclaimed in unison. “A too familiar fate. I and my brothers were born in Vietnam, a country that hadn’t seen peace in a long time, being split into the South and North. Due to an argument between our parents, we got separated before a war broke out. I was patrolling with my friend Ethan as we found Petunia, landing on Earth due to an argument with a unicorn. We took care of her and she got to know my lost brothers, eventually reuniting us. As we only wanted to return home, we found our village destroyed by a group of deserters and our parents killed, King and his family lost their house in a fire caused by rioters and the people started to yell mean words at him. As Princess Celestia arrived, we became a part of Petunia’s family to finally be able to live in peace together as brothers.“ Hoang told everyone with a slightly shaken voice, still remembering everything in detail. Twilight looked out of the window. It was evening. “That was interesting. You should go home now. If you’re wondering, the magic here allows you to understand each other regardless of the language.” “Yeah, we should.” Apple Bloom yawned. “Ah think we need a bigger clubhouse and means of transportation after this.” “We’ll see. What about giving you a tour of the Stormy?” Ian suggested. “Nice Idea. Can we daddy?” Jules asked his father. “Of course. But now, let’s catch some sleep. Goodnight everyone.” They all left. Twilight had to suppress tears. Making sure Spike wasn’t near; she went to her bedroom and opened a shelf that could only be opened by her. In it were plushie versions of herself and her family. She cried and sobbed as she hugged them all tightly. “J-James, I m-miss y-you so much. P-papa…” she cried herself to sleep.
