*Chapter 2 - Training

The next day Arc and his family sit around the breakfast table. The sun has already risen to its mid-morning position. Dinky looks to her father excitedly.

“So what are you going to do today, dad?!”

“I thought I might head back to Tartarus. Challenge King Malevolence's entire army. Maybe even fight the king himself.”

Dinky grins. “Really, dad?!”

Arc laughs as he shakes his head. “Nah! I actually have plans to start investigating someone who I think may be up to no good. Besides... I already beat the demon army once and the king himself twice now.”

Dinky giggles. “That must’ve been a sight to see.”

“Ask your mother. She was there.”

Derpy pour herself a cup of coffee. “True story.”

Arc grabs his satchel and heads over to the door. “Well, in any case, I'm off to Light’s Hope now. I’ll see what the squad is up to while I'm at it. Oh Derpy, could you and Dinky bring some cupcakes to Light's Hope a little after noon?”

“Sure, but why?”

“The troops will have finished their training assignments by then. It will give me something to look forward to.”

“Alright. We'll be there. See you then!”

Dinky waves her little hoof after her father. “Bye dad!”

Leaving Derpy’s house, Arc makes the short walk to Light's Hope. He finds his squad outside doing weapon and armor maintenance on their gear. Upon seeing him they quickly line up and silently salute. Arc walks over to them and returns their salute with one of his own as he speaks.

“At ease, all of you.”

Max looks over at his commanding officer as he complies. “Do you have orders for us, sir?”

“Actually, yes. But first off, is Ember around by any chance?”

Xenos shakes his head. “No sir. She said she was going to take care of some of the town's writs today.”

“Good. I was worried about someone doing that. But in any case, here are your instructions.”

Arc removes a sealed scroll from his satchel and sets it on a nearby table as he continues.

“As soon as the town clock strikes eleven o’clock, you will open this scroll and follow the orders found written within. Now then, I have other things to attend to at the moment. Good luck... you'll need it.”

As Arc walks away Max looks to the others.

“Well, we have a bit of time until eleven. Let's finish up so we can be ready for anything.”

Xenos looks at the rolled-up parchment lying on the table. “What do you suppose it says on there?”

Hugh shrugs. “Who knows? For all we know it could be orders to infiltrate Canterlot High Command to expose a mole.”

Viktor puts a hoof to his chin. “Or it could be orders for us to hunt down and destroy some foul beast who has been terrorizing some far-off town.”

Max sighs. “Or it could be orders to do his laundry for all the good this guessing does for us. But I must say that this Hero of Light isn't exactly what I was expecting. At this point I’m not sure if he is brave, or just plain foolhardy.”

Xenos looks over to the others. “Yeah. I hear he’s supposed to be really strong and a great warrior. But after meeting him face to face admittedly he doesn't look all that dangerous to me.”

Max returns to work with the others. “The princesses wouldn't have appointed him to the position of the Hero of Light if he wasn't qualified though. We need to have faith in their decision.”

The other three nod their heads in agreement. A short time later the town clock strikes eleven o’clock. As it does so the squad gathers around the scroll. Max picks it up and breaks the seal before reading it aloud.

Troops, we will soon be engaging in missions of greatest importance. However, that day is not today. For now, I have a task that the four of you will complete. As you read this note, I have hidden myself somewhere in Light's Hope and you are hereby ordered to find me. First though, a few rules of the game...

-You may go anywhere in the base, including my quarters.

-I will not move from my hiding spot, so there is no need to retrace your steps and check the same place twice. You may do so if you wish though.

-I am NOT outside the base.

-I am NOT in a secret passage or any place in the base that you are not aware exists.

-You may not solicit outside help. Should Ember return, she may NOT help you in your search.

-You may not use any type of magical items (should you possess any) to aid you in your search.

-To the one who finds me, I will grant a one thousand bit reward.

-Should none of you be able to find me before the town clock strikes noon, you all fail and must clean the base top to bottom. Now then, hop to it!

Your commanding officer,

Hero of Light Arc

Xenos looks over to the others, confused. “Uh... what is this?”

Max looks a bit disappointed. “He wants us to play hide and seek.”

Hugh shrugs. “Oh well. Shouldn't be too hard. I mean, there are only so many places he could hide. And I wouldn't mind that reward.”

Viktor nods in agreement. “This really shouldn’t be too hard. I mean, there are only so many places somepony of his stature could theoretically hide. And I wouldn't mind getting my hooves on that reward.”

The squad makes their way to the Main Hall to begin their search. Max turns to the others as they enter the building.

“Stay together. The commander will expect us to work as a unit. Let's systematically search room by room.”

They all nod in agreement as the squad looks around the Main Hall quickly. Xenos peeks out from looking under the secretary’s desk and calls out.

“There really isn't any place for him to hide in here!”

Viktor nods. “Agreed. Let’s move on.”

The squad hurries toward the Training Hall. They look behind sparring dummies, under racks and benches, but cannot locate Arc. Hugh looks over to the others and calls out.

“I don’t think he’s in here.”

Viktor looks over. “The armory then?”

Max nods as he heads for the door. “Worth a shot.”

They charge into the Armory to look behind racks of weapons and armor and under workbenches to no avail. Xenos points toward the vault.

“Hey! The vault door is open!”

Max glances over. “The commander probably left it open on purpose just to prove he isn’t hiding in there.”

Hugh eyes the open door suspiciously. “It's not like there was anything in there yet anyways. Right?”

Xenos shrugs. “Yeah. Uh… he isn't in there, is he?”

Viktor walks inside the vault and looks around the empty compartment. “Nope. Nothing in here.”

Max points to a door. “The Kitchen then! The commander does love his sweets!”

The squad hurries to the Kitchen and adjoining Cafeteria. They search through every cupboard, under the sink, under tables, the pantry, the refrigerators, and even in the deep freezer. Max gives the room one more look before rushing to the door.

“He's not here! Hurry! We've used up more than half our time already! To the Barracks next!”

Storming to the Barracks, the squad looks under every bunk and in every footlocker in addition to checking the showers and bathroom stalls. The guest quarters are quickly searched as are their own quarters. However they still find no sign of Arc. Frustrated, Max heads for the door with the others.

“This is maddening! Where could he be?!”

Xenos follows his companion closely. “We’re very quickly running out of places to look!”

Hugh gulps. “What about the… commander’s personal quarters?”

Viktor looks to Max apprehensively. “Well, he did say we could go anywhere.”

Max sighs. “I suppose you’re right. But... doing such a thing just doesn't feel… proper.”

Viktor looks over as they approach Arc’s door. “Orders are orders though! The commander told us to find him!”

Max groans in agreement. “Fine…”

The squad quickly enters Arc's personal quarters and respectfully looks over every nook and cranny. Xenos calls out as he closes the closet door.

“I'm still surprised the commander has such spartan living quarters for himself.”

Hugh looks over from the small kitchen area. “Is it a human thing perhaps?”

Max shakes his head as he steps out from the bathroom. “Doubtful. I was always taught they reveled in luxurious surroundings and opulence.”

Viktor hisses. “Shh! He might hear you!”

Xenos pokes his head into the bedroom. “Nah, he's not here either! But where else is there to look?!”

Hugh runs toward the door. “The War Room and Conference Room are all that is left! He has to be in one of them! Let's go!”

The near frantic squad races to the War Room and proceeds to look behind every desk and behind wall tapestries with no luck. Max calls over to the others frantically.

“The Conference Room! He HAS to be there! We've looked everywhere else! Hurry! Our time is almost up!”

The now desperate squad tears into the Conference Room looking behind the curtains, under the tables, in Arc's private office, and even going so far as to look behind the bookcases. Just then the town clock strikes noon. Max angrily kicks a nearby desk.

“ARGH! How could we fail at such a simple task?!”

They hear the sound of voices coming from the hall. Xenos and Hugh look back toward the open door.

“No way!”

“He couldn’t be…!”

The troops run back to the Main Hall to find Derpy and Dinky standing there with a box. Derpy addresses them as they approach.

“Excuse me. I’m sorry to bother all of you right now, but I'm looking for Arc.”

Dinky looks around. “Yeah! Have you seen my dad?!”

Max holds up the scroll. “We've been looking all over the base for him for the last hour.”

Derpy looks around for a few moments. “Oh dear! Can I assume you were unsuccessful?”

Xenos hangs his head in shame. “It's true. We failed in our task to find the commander.”

The squad joins him in bowing their heads. Suddenly they hear Arc’s laughter nearby. Dinky looks around the Main Hall with the others.

“Dad? I hear you, but… where are you?”

“Right here, Dinky!”

Arc, wearing the cloak Derpy gave him, suddenly appears sitting in a chair near the secretary’s desk. The squad can only stare at him in amazement. Max looks over at him in disbelief as he speaks.

“You mean…?!”

Arc nods. “When you four started your search of the base you ran right past me! True to my word though, I have not moved from this spot in the last hour.”

Xenos steps forward. “But… why sir?!”

Hugh nods. “Do tell! What was supposed to be the point of this exercise, sir?!”

Arc laughs. “I never actually said that you four were the ones being tested. In truth, this was more of an endurance test for ME! It was important for me to know that I could stay hidden from those actively searching for me for extended periods of time. After all, I get the feeling that we’re going to be doing a LOT of infiltration in the coming days. Stealth will be key and I had to be sure that I wouldn't pull the group down. But now I think I will inspect the condition of the base. Let's see how much ‘damage’ your search caused.”

Arc’s squad looks uneasy as he heads for the base’s interior. They retrace their steps as Arc looks around.

“Hmmm... it looks to me that as your search went on you became much more... uh... thorough.”

The squad says nothing as the continue following Arc. They walk from room to room, each in a bit worse shape than the last. The Barracks seemingly took the worst beating with sheets pulled off and footlockers overturned. Arc turns to his mortified squad.

“Well now... it looks like the four of you have your work cut out for you.”

Max looks to Arc, deeply embarrassed. “Our apologies, sir.”

“Duly noted. Now get to work cleaning this mess up, all of you. You can start with the most important room.”

Xenos looks over to Arc as he heads for the door. “The War Room, sir?”

Arc turns back as he stands in the doorway. “The kitchen. And be quick about it. After all, lunch won’t make itself.”

The sound of clopping hooves can be head making their way down the corridor quickly. A few moments later a Royal Guard sergeant enters the Barracks followed by a contingent of soldiers. The sergeant approaches Arc and salutes respectfully.

“Reporting for duty sir!”

Arc nods as he holds out a hand. “Welcome to Light’s Hope, sergeant. May I see your orders?”

The sergeant pulls a scroll out of his bag. “Certainly sir!”

Arc reads over the orders quickly. “Sergeant Flash Sentry is it now?”

“Yes sir.”

Arc looks around before returning his gaze to Flash Sentry. “It says here that you and your troops are to be stationed here to guard Light's Hope along with a receptionist and a chef. Where are the latter?”

“Yes sir. The two of them are waiting for the all-clear in the Main Hall.”

Arc raises an eyebrow. “All… clear?”

“My apologies, but it appears we arrived too late. Judging by the state of the base, the battle must have been intense! Who or what were you and your soldiers fighting?!”

Arc looks over at his embarrassed squad a moment before turning his attention back to Flash Sentry. “There was no battle, sergeant.”

“Sir?”

“What you see here is merely the aftermath of a very… intense training exercise we just concluded. In any case, have your guards straighten up the barracks and get settled in. My troops will clean the rest of the base themselves. While you’re unpacking I will see to our two guests in the Main Hall personally.”

Flash Sentry salutes. “Yes sir.”

Arc turns back to Derpy and Dinky. “Thanks for coming you two. Although it now appears that I have quite a bit of work to do. Sorry about this.”

Derpy nods. “It’s okay, Arc. We understand you have many duties now.”

“Yeah dad. I know you have other things to do to keep everypony safe.”

Arc tousles Dinky’s mane happily. “Thanks, both of you. I’ll probably be busy for quite some time here. Be a good filly for your mother, Dinky.”

“I will!”

Derpy and Dinky head for door together. As his orders are carried out by the a fore mentioned stallions Arc walks to the Main Hall to greet the chef and secretary. They appear a bit unnerved to have arrived during what they believed to be a legitimate attack. The chef and secretary look to Arc apprehensively as the former speaks.

“Hero of Light! Is everything all right now?!”

The secretary looks around nervously. “Are we in danger here?!”

Arc shakes his head. “Everything is fine. There was no attack. In truth, I was in the middle of training my squad and things got a bit out of hand. But in any case, my name is Arc. Might I have yours?”

The secretary walks toward Arc, clearly relieved. “My name is Raven Inkwell, sir. I’ve been assigned to your base in order to keep the day to day paperwork in order.

Arc nods. “How much experience do you have as a secretarial aide?”

“Quite a bit. I have served as secretary and aide to many high ranking government officials in Canterlot.”

“Well Raven, I hope I can count on you to handle the logistical side of this facility then.”

Raven nods. “Yes sir. Paperwork may not do itself, but I am well versed in military protocol and supply handling. I won't let you down.”

Arc nods to her. “I’m sure you’ll do just fine.”

Turning to the chef, he notices she appears much more composed than Raven. “I am Saffron Masala, sir.”

Arc looks over the scroll from Flash Sentry. “It says here that you’ve cooked for visiting diplomats in the past. Is that true?”

“That is only partially true sir. The Canterlot Castle chefs would assign me the sole task of cooking the meat dishes only. Other than that, I was just a regular sous chef.”

“But you’re capable of preparing enough food to feed everyone here three times a day, right?”

Saffron nods. “Yes sir. I learned how to do so from my father whom owns a small restaurant in Canterlot.”

Arc smiles at her. “Very good. I’m sure you’ll fit right in here.”

“Thank you for the honor of being allowed to cook for Equestria's Hero of Light, sir. Although there are many others more skilled in the art of cooking than I.”

Arc chuckles. “That may be true, yes. However, I need a chef who isn't afraid to get a little blood on their hooves, figuratively speaking. Us humans require a good bit of protein in our diets in order to stay healthy.”

“Understood sir. I won't let you down!”

“I’m sure you won’t. Now then, give me a few moments and I’ll show you the way to your new kitchen.

As Saffron salutes, Arc turns back to the secretary before continuing.

“Raven, this is the Main Hall where you will be working most of the time.”

He turns and points to a small door behind her desk.

“Through that door you will find your private quarters. I have already inspected them and believe you will find them to be quite comfortable.”

“Thank you, sir. I will settle in and get to work immediately.”

Arc nods as she salutes and turns away. “Good. I’m counting on you.”

He looks to Saffron before continuing.

“Let me escort you to the kitchen.”

Saffron follows Arc to the kitchen which is has been returned to its normal condition thanks to his squad. She looks around, wide-eyed.

“This kitchen is almost as big as the one in Canterlot Castle!”

“I hope you’re up to the task.”

Saffron nods. “Yes sir, I am! As I said earlier, my father owns a restaurant in Canterlot called ‘The Tasty Treat’. So I am used to having to feed large groups!”

“Glad to hear it. Well, I’ll leave you to put this kitchen in order.”

Saffron turns to her task happily. “Thank you for choosing me, sir! I won’t let you down!”

Arc returns to the main barracks where Flash Sentry and his guards have finished cleaning up and are in the process of settling in. Upon Arc entering the room the sergeant calls his troops to attention.

“Room a-ten-hut!”

Arc returns their salutes. “At ease.”

Flash Sentry approaches Arc and salutes him. “Commander!”

“Sergeant. I would like a word with you. Follow me.”

Flash Sentry looks a bit nervous. “Y… yes sir!”

He follows Arc to his office. They enter. Flash Sentry closes the door behind them as Arc sits down at his desk and gestures to one of the chairs before him.

“Have a seat.”

Flash Sentry does so at once. Arc looks him over for a few moments before speaking again.

“Tell me sergeant, whom assigned you here?”

“Captain Decimus signed my transfer orders, sir.”

“So, you were originally stationed in Canterlot Castle then?”

“Yes sir.”

“Tell me… why were you sent here?”

Flash Sentry looks confused. “I… don’t know sir.”

“The captain didn’t say?”

“No sir.”

Arc looks across the desk at Flash Sentry. “Then I will tell you why you were sent here. You are here to aid me in protecting these lands. I know guard duty may not be as glamorous or exciting as fighting monsters or leading a rescue mission, but it is a vital part of the service. You and your troops will continue to train while you are here, of course. At some point I may borrow a few of your guards for extra muscle, so it is imperative that you maintain combat readiness. Have I made myself clear, sergeant?”

“Yes sir!”

Arc stands and looks out the large office window behind his desk. It overlooks a large field behind the base.

“Very good. Make out a duty roster and post your guards as soon as possible. I want a sense of normalcy established as soon as possible. You are dismissed.”

“Yes sir. Thank you sir.”

Flash Sentry stands and turns to leave. However, Arc calls out after him.

“Flash Sentry.”

The sergeant turns, surprised to be called by name.

“Sir?”

“You will not tell your guards this, but I have a feeling we are about to get busy, and we must ALL be ready. Equestria has more enemies than you realize. I hope you and your boys are up to the task. No matter what the task is.”

Flash Sentry nods and leaves the office. Arc continues to look out the window as he muses to himself.

“And at the same time, I hope I’m up to the task as well.”

A short time later the smell of food cooking fills Light’s Hope. Arc looks over from his desk as he sniffs the air.

“Saffron certainly doesn’t waste any time.”

He makes his way to the cafeteria for a late lunch. As Arc walks in, he sees the rest of the troops lined up for lunch. They immediately come to attention. Arc walks over toward Saffron who is holding a plate for him.

“At ease.”

Saffron walks over to him levitating at plate. “Sorry I don't have too much to offer you sir, as I haven't been able to properly shop for ingredients yet.”

Arc accepts the plate of grilled fish happily. “It’s alright. I understand.”

As Arc walks past his squad sitting at a nearby table, he notices they are noticeably disturbed. Turning to the four he addresses them.

“Something wrong?”

Max looks at Arc’s plate. “Forgive us sir, but... well... the sight of your meal is making us a bit... nauseous.”

Arc looks down at his plate. “I see. That gives me an idea. After lunch, I want you four to meet me in the Main Hall with full field packs. Don’t pack any food though. Instead I want you to use the space to pack extra water.”

Xenos looks over. “A survival camping trip, sir?”

“Eh… something like that.”

Arc turns his head to look to Flash Sentry. “Sergeant!”

Flash Sentry quickly approaches Arc and salutes. “Yes sir?”

“My squad and I will be heading out for a training exercise after lunch for an indefinite duration. Until my return, you will be in command of Light's Hope.”

Flash Sentry appears surprised. “Uh… yes sir!”

Arc quickly eats his food and leaves the cafeteria. He immediately heads to his quarters to pack his own satchel before proceeding to the Main Hall to await his soldiers. Raven has begun to organize the incoming paperwork from Canterlot. Walking over to her desk he addresses her.

“Getting into the swing of things, Raven?”

Raven nods. “Yes sir. It will take some time, but I will have these files in order in a few days. Is there anything you need?”

“Actually yes. My troops and I will be gone for a few days to a week on a training exercise. I’m leaving Sergeant Flash Sentry in command of the base in my absence. When I return, I’d like to go over the records of all the personnel assigned to this facility. Could you get those files over to my desk by then?”

“Certainly sir.”

A short time later Arc’s squad enters the Main Hall together with bulging saddlebags. Lining up, they look to Arc and respond in unison.

“Reporting as ordered, sir!”

Arc looks them over. “Are all of you ready for this?”

Max nods soberly. “We’re all trained in wilderness survival, sir.

Hugh smirks. “This should be no problem!”

Xenos sighs. “Yeah. But I get the feeling it will be.”

Arc turns to the door. “We will see. All of you follow me.”

He leads his troops to the edge of town. Stopping briefly at Derpy’s house, Arc opens the front door and peeks inside.

“Derpy… Dinky… are you home?”

The pair appear a few moments later at the door along with Ember. Dinky runs over to Arc and gives him a hug.

“Dad! That was fast!”

Derpy looks past Arc at his squad and all their gear. “Are you heading out on a mission, Arc?”

“Something like that. We're going on a camping trip of sorts.”

Ember looks over. “Need some help with that, Arc?”

Arc sighs. “How did I know you were going to say that? Well, I might as well say yes. You'll just end up following us anyways.”

Ember smirks as she heads inside to get her armor and spear. “You know me so well.”

Dinky trots in place excitedly. “Can I come too, dad?”

Derpy shakes her head. “No, Dinky! If I know Arc, this is no ordinary camping trip.”

Arc nods. “True. This will be dangerous, Dinky. Maybe next time.”

Dinky bows her head dejectedly. “Aww… okay dad.”

Arc returns his attention back to Derpy. “We’ll be back in a few days or so. Not sure how long this will take.”

Derpy walks over to Arc and gives him a hug as Dinky joins in. “Alright. Take care of yourself out there, Arc. Remember, we both need you!”

Arc hugs them both. “I’ll miss you two as well. But we must be off now. Take care you two.”

Ember returns with her armor and spear to join them. Derpy and Dinky wave goodbye as Arc and company walk away. Xenos turns to Arc.

“You have a lovely family, sir.”

“Thank you. Do any of you have families?”

Hugh shakes his head. “None of us do.”

Viktor chuckles. “The military IS our family!”

Max looks over to Arc. “To tell you the truth sir, most of Equestria's military is comprised of orphans.”

Ember appears to be thinking. “Hold on! Are you saying...?!”

Viktor nods. “Yep! The four of us grew up together in the same orphanage.”

Max shrugs. “It wasn't much of an upbringing. But we had each other.”

Arc nods. “I see. Tell me about your home.”

Max thinks for a few moments. “Well, there isn't really all that much to say about it. Equestria relies on the New Beginnings Orphanage to house pretty much all of its homeless foals.”

A rather irritated look spreads across Viktor’s face. “It's run by a rather... unpleasant matron named Tempest Shadow. Nopony really liked her very much though.”

Arc raises an eyebrow. “Why’s that?”

Hugh looks away angrily. “Let's just say that she was quite the taskmaster.”

Max grits his teeth. “She always pushed everypony to their limits in everything.”

Xenos grunts. “ Yeah. Studies, sports, even normal games where a ‘play to win’ sort of event.”

Ember shakes her head at this. “Sounds more like she was just pushing you to be all you could be to me! And look where you are now! Under the personal command of the Hero of Light himself!”

Viktor turns to Arc. “We're honestly not trying to sound ungrateful sir, but... it always felt like our fates had always been decided for us ahead of time.”

Hugh shrugs. “Army bound and no two ways about it.”

Xenos smiles wistfully. "Yeah. If it hadn't been for her assistant Miss Pommel though, I don't think many of us foals would have made it.”

Arc frowns. “Can you elaborate on that?”

Hugh nods. “The penalty for losing a competition was quite high.”

Ember scoffs. “What? Did you not get second helpings of cupcakes, or something?”

Viktor rolls his eyes. “Losers didn't get the ‘privilege’ of the upcoming meal.”

Max bows his head. “It became harder to win the more meals we missed.”

Xenos smiles sadly. “Miss Pommel would donate most of her food to the losers though. In all the time we were growing up there, I don't believe she ever got to eat a decent meal.”

Ember’s eyes grow wide. “And I thought dragon parents were hard on their young! How did she survive without eating?!”

Max looks away sadly. “Nopony really knows. She was always so weak because of it though. I'm not sure if the matron didn't notice... or didn't care. Probably the latter.”

Xenos turns to the others nervously. “Um… guys? I know.”

Hugh looks over to Xenos. “You know what?”

Xenos looks down sadly. “I know how Miss Pommel stayed alive to help us.”

Viktor looks at his friend, expectantly. “You do!? Tell us!”

Xenos sighs and begins to speak. “It just so happened that I had smuggled in a candy bar and had kept it hidden for a time when I was beyond hungry. One night I awoke very late and knew this was the right time. Grabbing my treasure from my secret hiding spot, I snuck out of the orphanage to the darker part of the back of the building where the building cast a shadow from the moon. Unwrapping the candy as quietly as I could, I was about to take a bite when I heard the sound of hoof steps coming around the building. As quickly and quietly as I could I hid behind some nearby bushes and waited.”

Hugh, wide eyed, looks over. “Was it the Matron?”

Xenos shakes his head. “No, much worse. It was Miss Pommel. She didn't see me hiding, even though she looked around thoroughly for a minute. Then... it happened. Walking over to a corner of the back play area, she slowly lowered her head and... started eating the flowers from her garden! I couldn't believe it! This kind pony being reduced to eating grass and FLOWERS! Finally, when I could stand it no longer…”

The large stallion has a faraway look in his eyes as he recalls the incident from so long ago. Young Xenos hides in the bushes watching the spectacle before him. He looks at his chocolate bar, then over at Coco Pommel.

“I have to help!”

Working up all his courage, Xenos slowly and quietly made his way over to Coco Pommel.

“M-Miss Pommel?”

Coco Pommel lets out a small gasp of surprise as she whirls around to face him.

“Xenos?! What are you doing up at this hour?! You should be in bed! If Matron Tempest finds you out here...!”

Xenos interrupts and holds out his candy bar to her. “Miss Pommel... please... take this.”

Coco Pommel shakes her head. “No, Xenos. You should have this. I know you’re hungry, and you need the nutrition more than I do. Don't worry about me. I'll be alright.”

Tears begin to form in the young colt’s eyes. “Please, Miss Pommel! I'm worried about you! We all are! You've spent so long taking care of US! Let me take care of you for once!”

“Xenos, I... thank you, my little pony.”

Young Xenos lies down in the grass with Miss Pommel and watches as she slowly eats the candy bar before standing ups slowly.

“Thank you... I needed that. Listen to me Xenos. I want you to grow up big and strong so you can protect those you care for. Grow up, and leave this place far behind!”

The young foal nod and looks up at her soberly. “I will, Miss Pommel. But... someday I'll come back and save you and everypony else from Matron Tempest!”

Coco Pommels shakes her head. “Please don't say such things, Xenos! The Matron is more powerful than you know! If you really want to help, grow strong enough to leave this place behind forever!”

Xenos gasps. “But… but what about you, Miss Pommel?!”

Coco Pommel looks over her shoulder at the imposing building behind her. “I will continue my vigil over the foals here.”

Xenos opens his eyes and look to the others. “I did just as Miss Pommel told me. Every day I strive to become even stronger so I can one day make good on my promise to save her and everypony else still at the New Beginnings Orphanage!”

Ember looks to Xenos in disbelief. “That's quite the story, Xenos! But whatever happened to Coco Pommel?”

Xenos sighs. “I don't really know. When I started my training I sent her letters, of course. But never heard anything back.”

Max groans. “The Matron probably intercepted them.”

Arc appears to be deep in though. “And the other foals? What became of them?”

Hugh looks over. “As far as I know everypony joined Equestria's military.”

Max thinks for a moment. “I never really thought about it until now but, did ANYPONY from back then ever go into any line of work other than joining the corps?”

The squad thinks for a few minutes before shaking their heads. Arc stops and turns to his troops before speaking.

“While I understand that Equestria needs protectors, I also can't shake the feeling that there is more going on here. I would be very interested in seeing where you four grew up in the near future.”

Hugh looks to his commanding office in confusion. “Sir? But why?”

“I believe that it will help me to understand the upbringing of Equestria's next generation of soldiers. That and I would like to meet this Matron Tempest and Miss Pommel for myself. We will speak more on this later, but for now we need to focus on what is ahead.”

He calls forth his armor and points his spear down the path. “There is much for all of us to learn ahead.”

Ember looks down the path. “Um… Arc? Isn’t that the Everfree Forest?”

Arc nods as he leads them into the foliage. “Indeed it is. Shall we?”

Max looks around nervously. “Are you sure this is a good idea, sir?”

“I am. From what I’ve heard this forest is one of the few truly dangerous places within Equestria’s borders. Perfect for our lessons, as everything in here wants to kill us.”

Arc’s squad gulps as he holds up a hand to bring the part to a full stop.

“Wait here.”

Arc walks a dozen or so feet forward slowly, his spear at the ready. Suddenly a giant venus fly trap lunges toward him. He ducks and slashes at the carnivorous plant's now exposed stem, cutting it cleanly. The plant falls to the ground, dead. Unfazed, Arc turns to look at his troops behind him.

“Shall we continue?”

Ember smiles “I like a challenge! Kinda reminds me of Tartarus, as even the land wants to kill us!”

After a while Arc stops in a clearing next to a stream. Looking around, he nods approvingly.

“This seems as good a place as any. We make camp here. Pitch the tents and then gather firewood. But always work in pairs for safety”

His squad nervously complies as Arc continues.

“And remember, everything here will view you as food.”

The three tents are quickly pitched and a fire started. Arc surveys their small camp before turning back to the squad.

“Very good. Now I want you all to scavenge for food. Stay together and see what you can find.”

The squad, becoming more comfortable in their surroundings salute and respond in unison.

“Yes sir!”

An hour or so later the squad returns with saddlebags full of berries and nuts they found in the forest. Max approaches Arc and salutes.

“Mission complete, sir!”

Arc nods. “Very well. Show me what you found.”

They proudly lay out what they have turned up as Max turns back to Arc.

“Part of our basic training was learning how to live off of the land, commander.”

Xenos grins. “Yeah. And all things considered, I think we did quite well.”

Arc looks over their bounty. “I suppose you did. However, you forgot one thing.”

Viktor looks at Arc confused. “What’s that, sir?”

“I sent you out to gather food for the entire group. There is nothing here for Ember to eat, and little that I can personally stomach.”

Hugh gasps. “I’m sorry sir! But we’re not sure what you or dragons eat.”

Arc turns to Ember. “Would you care to demonstrate it to them?”

“Sure thing.”

Ember picks up her spear and walks into the nearby stream. She holds he spear over her head, unmoving. Xenos looks to Arc.

“What is she…?”

Arc holds up a hand for silence. “Just watch!”

A few minutes later Ember suddenly thrusts her spear into the water and pulls out a flailing fish. Arc grins as she moves to face the group with it.

“Nice catch, Ember!”

Arc turns and notices that his squad seems a bit squeamish at the sight of the now bloody fish on the end of Ember's spear. Hoping to use this as a teachable moment, he pulls the fish from the spear and looks to Ember.

“Ember, how about showing the squad how to properly fillet this fish?”

She nods. “Pay close attention. This is actually easier than you think.”

Arc hands her his Hunting Knife and whetstone. She takes a minute or two, but soon has the knife razor sharp.

“First things first. Always make sure you use the sharpest knife you can get. Makes the job easier and you are less likely to cut yourself.”

Ember demonstrates where and how to cut the fish. Arc's squad does not take it well. Grunting, she looks over their pained expressions.

“Haven't you guys ever seen blood before?!”

Max looks up at her, a bit green. “Not… in such large amounts we haven’t!

Arc sighs. “Then can I assume none of you has seen actual combat before?”

Xenos shakes his head. “No, sir. After all, Equestria has been peaceful for quite some time.”

Arc folds his arms over his chest. “That’s understandable. Do you see why I brought you four out here now?”

Hugh shrugs. “To teach us how to fish?”

“Close. The purpose of this little excursion is to get some blood on those hooves of yours. Our future together will most likely be quite... violent and I need troops who aren't afraid to actually use their weapons in a lethal manner. Now then, all of you grab your spears and get in the stream with Ember. After all, I'm hungry too”

The troops try to spear fish for a time unsuccessfully. Ember watches their attempts and offers constructive criticism.

“Don't be in a rush. Wait for the perfect moment. Then strike!”

After several more attempts Xenos strikes the water with conviction and pulls a fish out of the water. Grinning triumphantly he turns to shore.

“I got one!”

Ember nods approvingly. “Good job.”

Arc looks to the others. “See if the rest of you can catch more of them. I’ll send the extras to Saffron back at Light's Hope. We need the freezer stocked anyways.”

A few minutes later Max catches one himself. “Success!”

The troops watch as Ember fillets each fish and Arc cooks them over the campfire. Together they eat their food as the sun sets and the crickets start to chirp. Patting his belly, Arc turns to his squad.

“Ah... that hits the spot. Good job today guys. Would you all like to sample some of the fruits of your labors?”

Max shakes his head. “We’ll pass, sir.”

Arc nods. “I understand. Perhaps another time. Now then, it is getting rather late. We’ll each take two hour guard duty shifts, as some things out here will be looking for a midnight snack.”

Ember smirks. “So which of them gets the first watch, Arc?”

Arc motions to the tents. “You boys get some rest. I'll take the first shift myself.”

His squad salutes and heads for their tent. Arc looks over to Ember when she fails to stand.

“Aren’t you tired?”

She shakes her head. “Not really. Besides that though…”

Ember moves closer to Arc with a smile and a gleam in her eye as she continues.

“...it's not every day we get to be alone like this.”

“It won't always be this way. Eventually Princess Celestia will return and you can have your re-trial. Celestia will most certainly see you are not guilty and you can get back to the task your father sent you on.”

Ember appears suddenly hopeful. “I guess, but… would you mind if I... well... stayed around afterwards? You know how I feel about you, Arc, and I'm sure there will be plenty of danger to go around in your future.”

Arc bows his head. “What you say is most likely true. However, any victories we would earn together would most certainly be credited to the Hero of Light alone. I had wished you would make a name for yourself so that you could again be welcome in the Dragon Lands. There... isn't much of a future for you with me as our time together would be rather… short.”

Ember puts a claw on Arc’s gauntlet. “Arc... even if I were to stay by your side for the rest of your life, it would be but a short time for me in the grander scheme of things. However, the thought of living in a world without you makes me quite... sad admittedly. I want to stay by your side and make many happy memories together with you. Although you won't live long enough to see me take a mate, I hope to someday see you with another you can live out your days with.”

Arc smiles. “Such a thought has crossed my mind before, albeit briefly. Being the only human in a land of ponies would make such a task... difficult.”

Ember folds her arms over her chest. “Why does it have to be a pony?! If my father hadn't forbidden it, I would have been very happy being your mate! I'm not blind, Arc! I've seen the way several mares have looked at you! Twilight worries about you constantly! Derpy practically worships the ground you walk on! Ruby couldn't stop looking at you the whole time we were in Dodge Junction. Not to mention ME! And most of all Cherry! I’m sure she would love to share a night with you almost as much as I would! And that's just the mares from recent months! Who knows how many others will fall for you in the coming years?!”

Arc replies sadly. “I know... I... I really like all those ponies you just listed, but… well… I'm just too busy to think about much less act on such things. It's hurts enough when I leave Derpy and Dinky behind. How much more would it hurt if I were married?.”

Ember turns away, clearly embarrassed at her words. “I... I'm sorry Arc, but... I just want you to be happy. You know... have someone to spend your life with.”

“Well, at the moment I think I’m ‘married’ to my job of protecting this land. As long as those I care about are safe, I will be happy.”

Ember leans her head on Arc’s shoulder and closes her eyes. “Arc, I love you just for being you. Don't ever change.”

She falls asleep sitting next to Arc. His squad watches from their tent in silence before turning to one another. Max shakes his head as he whispers.

“I feel bad for the commander.”

Viktor sighs. “He's in quite the pickle.”

Xenos smiles. “Yeah, but I don't see him struggling too hard to get out of it.”

Hugh smirks. “With that many mares giving him their attention, who would?

Two hours later Arc turns and wakes up Ember. She looks around a bit confused.

“Huh? What?!”

Arc chuckles. “You nodded off.”

Ember looks at him sheepishly. “Sorry about that.”

“Why don't you go lie down now? It's been two hours. I'll get one of the guys to take over the next watch.”

Ember stands and walks over to the tent. She turns back to Arc and winks. “Alright. But don’t be long.”

Arc turns away and heads for the other tents. He mutters under his breath.

“Again... what have I gotten myself into...”

He opens the tent and gives Max a nudge. The stallion slowly raises his head.

“Time already, sir?”

Arc nods. “Yup, you're up next. In two hours wake up Hugh and have him take over.”

Max nods and he stands up and walks over to the fire. Arc heads for his shelter, recalls his armor, enters the tent, and lies down on his back. Ember snuggles up to him and whispers.

“Good night, Arc.”

He sighs. “Good night, Ember.”

The next day is spent teaching the squad the finer points of spear fishing. After enough practice every time they plunge their spears into the water, a fish is attached. Arc beckons them over as he looks to them approvingly.

“Very good. It seems you four have gotten over your apprehension. Now for the next phase of your training.”

He points at the large pile of freshly caught fish as he pulls out four Hunting Knives from his satchel and continues.

“I want to see you fillet these now.”

The squad does so rather crudely at first. By the time the last fish is filleted near sundown they are nearly as good at it as Ember and Arc are. As Arc opens a portal back to Light’s Hope’s freezer, Ember and his squad tosses through the fish. Finishing their task, Arc looks to them soberly.

“I want you all to understand this. I'm not trying to turn you into mindless killers. There will be many who will die upon our spears in the future, but we will do so with a purpose. Not with reckless abandon.”

The squad nods soberly. Somewhere nearby a large roar rings out. They look around, spears at the ready. Xenos scans their surroundings as they all take up their battle ready positions.

“What was that?!”

Max stands behind him watching and waiting. “I don’t know, but it sounded big!”

Hugh grits his teeth. “And angry!”

The sound of something large crashing toward the camp can be heard. Arc takes up a battle-ready stance with his squad.

“Stand back troops! This one’s mine!”

Ember jumps next to Arc ready for battle. “Yeah! Let’s do this!”

Arc holds out an arm and pushes her back. “That goes for you too, Ember!”

She puts her Spear of Courage over her shoulder and walks away. “Argh! Fine... have it your way!”

A manticore breaks into the clearing and roars at Arc whom calmly stands his ground. Looking the creature over, Arc speaks to it in an even tone.

“My, you’re a big one! I’m impressed but, are you sure don't want to just... oh, I don't know... turn around and walk away?”

The manticore’s response is a pawfull of claws swung at Arc’s chest. Ember yells over to him as Arc dodges.

“Be careful Arc! I doubt even you could survive a blow from that thing!”

Arc looks over to the beast. “Maybe he’s not such a bad guy?”

The manticore takes another mighty swing at Arc. He misses, but knocks over a tree as Arc frowns and continues.

“Nope! He’s rotten to the core!”

As the manticore takes another swing, Arc ducks and takes the opportunity to counterattack with the butt of his spear to the manticore's chest, knocking him high into the air. Arc then finishes his opponent by delivering a magical blast to send the beast hurtling through the sky. Ember runs over to Arc with his squad close behind.

“Impressive, Arc! It took Twilight herself several minutes to charge up enough to do that!”

Max stops in front of Arc. “Quite the display, sir! But if I may ask... would it not have been easier to simply slay the beast?”

Arc shrugs as he puts his spear over his shoulder. “I suppose it would have been, yes. While I am certainly not against such action, I act with purpose. We are after all in HIS backyard.”

Xenos looks in the direction the manticore flew. “I daresay such a beast would have most certainly filled your deep freezer back at the base.”

Arc’s pupils shrink as he turns to run deep into the forest. “GET BACK HERE YOU MANGY BEAST!”

Xenos and Ember fist bump. “Good one, Xenos!”

Arc returns a few minutes later dejectedly. “What an opportunity lost!”

Ember rolls her eyes. “I’m sure you’ll survive.”

Arc sighs. “Ha, ha. Well, I'm a bit tired after all the excitement. I'll let you four decide the watch rotation.”

His squad salutes as Ember follows Arc into the tent and lies down next to him. Turning to her, Arc groans.

"Again with this, Ember?”

Ember looks to Arc with a smile. “What can I say? You know how I feel!”

Arc rolls over and sighs. “Good night.”

The next morning Arc and his troops sit around their campfire as he briefs them on the day’s activity.

“Today we will be doing something a little different troops.”

Max grins at him. “Hunting the manticore from yesterday?”

Arc narrows his eyes. “Don’t tempt me.”

He points over at a bag and case lying near his tent.

“Grab that gear and follow me.”

The troops do so as Arc leads them a short distance away to a small clearing. He stops and opens the case for the troops to see.

“Do all of you know what this is?”

Max is the first to speak up. “This is a Crusader MK-1 rifle. It doesn't have much stopping power except at fairly close range.”

Viktor looks to Arc. “Are we going to be doing some target practice, sir?”

“In a matter of speaking. Assemble and load the weapon Xenos.”

“Yes sir!”

He does so in a matter of thirty seconds. Holding it out for inspection, Xenos again speaks.

“Weapon ready sir!”

Arc nods. “Very good. Now, I’ve spoken with Canterlot's Conservation Department and have been informed that they will be entering these very woods with a group of specialists next week to cull the cockatrice population by one hundred birds due to overpopulation.”

Hugh looks around. “So we’re getting a head start on them?”

Arc shrugs. “No reason to let good meat go to waste, so we're going to do them a favor and start now.”

He throws a handful of seeds from the bag into the clearing. A few moments later a group of cockatrices approach to feed. Arc raises his hand cannon and takes careful aim. Firing, he hits the bird squarely in the head while the rest of the flock flies away. Arc then walks over to the dead bird, picks it up and walks back to his troops. He points at Max.

“You’re up next. Now then I only want to see head shots.”

Max looks at the birds as the flock flaps around nervously. “Y… yes sir!”

The birds return to feed and Max takes aim. The gun shakes as does its wielder. After a solid minute passes Arc turns to him.

“Is there a problem?”

“I'm sorry sir. I've just never shot anything that's, you know... alive.”

Arc nods soberly. “Everyone has a first time, of course. Just do as I did and make it quick and painless for the bird. Remember, head shots only. I don't want it to have to suffer needlessly.”

He turns to the others before continuing.

“Do you know why the Canterlot's Conservation Department has said one hundred of these need to be hunted?

They shake their heads as Arc continues.

“Because according to their research, there isn’t enough food to sustain all of them. Rather than let them starve to death slowly and painfully, we’re going to give them a clean way out.”

Ember whispers. “That and they just happen to taste like chicken.”

Max raises the gun. “Yes sir. I understand”

He takes careful aim and fires. A bird drops like a stone as his companions turn tail and flutter away. Arc nods approvingly as he turns to Max.

“Good shot. Now go pick it up.”

Max does so, albeit cautiously. The others take turns making shots of their own with the rifle. By mid-morning they have two dozen birds bagged. Smiling, Arc puts the gun away.

“That's enough. We'll let the Conservation Department take care of the other seventy-six. Grab some birds and head back to camp.”

A short time later they arrive back at camp. Ember begins showing the troops how to remove the feathers and then how to properly dress the birds. Arc puts one of the birds in front of the fire to cook and sends the rest of the processed birds via magic portal to the kitchen back at Light's Hope. As he sends the last bird through the portal Arc stands up and groans happily.

“Quite a bit of work, but fulfilling.”

He turns to his squad before continuing.

“How do you feel right now?”

Max shrugs. “Okay, I guess.”

Hugh grins. “Fine.”

Viktor grins. “Just peachy!”

Xenos laughs. “Ready for lunch!”

Ember approaches the group. “You’ve all come quite a long way in these last few days!”

Arc nods. “That they have.”

Max shrugs. “I don’t think it’s that much of an improvement though, sir.”

Ember grins. “I have to disagree. Remember when you guys were squeamish at the very sight of blood the other day? Well, look at yourselves now.”

The troops do as they are told. They are surprised to see that they are covered in blood from head to hoof from processing all the birds. Arc folds his arms over his chest as he speaks.

“Congratulations on overcoming your fear of getting blood on your hooves. Well, I think that concludes our training exercise. Pack it in and we will teleport back to Light's Hope.”

The camp is packed up in record time and the party gathers around Arc who opens a portal to Light's Hope's Main Hall sigil.

“Okay, everyone head through.”

They do so. As Arc passes through to portal himself it closes behind him. He does not notice a mysterious black robed figure in a tree above them.

“Very good, Arc. Get them used to killing. After all, I sense quite the bloodbath in your wake.”

Kronos appears next to them. “Still so sure Arc that will align himself with you?”

“Of that I am certain! Humans can't help but enjoy killing things they deem below themselves! When Arc joins me, we will cut a swath of death and destruction through this wretched land!”

Kronos’ form pulsates with a gentle glow. “Have you seen nothing?! Arc is not the mindless, bloodthirsty killer you believe him to be!”

“I have seen scores lie dead at my feet in the past! I know a true bringer of death when I see one!”

“Arc would never allow such things to come to pass! Should you bring about that future, he would most certainly fight AGAINST you, not WITH you!”

The black cloaked figure smiles a wicked simile. “He is welcome to try. Tell me... what future do you see for this land?”

Kronos is silent as the other figure continues.

“Ha! I don't have to be the Keeper of Time to see this land's future is one of darkness. Tell me, why don't you just warn your little human plaything of my intentions?”

“You know as well as I do that to interfere with the natural flow of time is reckless at best!”

“But you have addressed him and others in this land already! Is that really the best course of action?”

Kronos fades away. “A calculated risk. I know the dangers which I partake in. The real question though is… do you?”

The figure laughs. “All too well! I haven't had this much fun in centuries!”