Camaraderie

by walk-in closet brony

Rating: teen
Tags: Human, Main 6, Gore, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Dark, Alternate Universe, Other, Tragedy, Queen Chrysalis, Shining Armor, Princess Celestia
Length: 57449

"All wars are civil wars, because all men are brothers." - Francois Fenelon

At the dawn of the discovery of a new sentient race, the United Nations must answer a call to arms after the peaceful society of Equestria is threatened by an enemy unknown to humans. It will take guts, courage, and sacrifice to overcome the long road ahead. Forged in the fires of conflict, a true soldiers bond will be formed between the two races. A true sense of camaraderie.

Published 2012-09-11 05:24:03 UTC
Last updated 2013-01-10 21:36:01 UTC

The Road to War (Timeline)

Author's note: Please bear with me here as this is my form of a rational visit to the world of MLP FIM.

April 10th 2014: Experimentation in the Hadron collider tunnel at CERN, located in Geneva, yields interesting information when two proton particles collide. Analysis concludes that during collision a small field or "flux" appears.

November 7th 2014: After intense observations, american theoretical physicist Frank Wilczek proposes that this "flux" is the interaction of both protons from the experiment and the intrusion of a third electron from an outlying layer blind to the lens of the computer.

January 26th 2015: American, Russian, and Japanese scientists begin construction on a device built to amplify the fluctuations.

March 15th 2015: The construction of the device known as the PEA, the Proton Electron Amplifier, is completed and put to work.

March 18th 2015: Experiment A1 shows PEA is unable to produce an opening large enough for the flux itself to manifest.

August 1st 2015: Construction of the add-on to PEA, a large circular arch adorned with Tesla coils, is used to house enough space for the fluctuation to occur.

August 3rd 2015: Experiment D5 proves PEA is able to fully manifest the flux into a violet "wall" transparent on both sides.

August 4th 2015: American particle physicist David Gross braves a touch on the "wall". Gross's finger passes through the field of energy "like mist".

August 5th 2015: Frank Wilczek, accompanied by two other field specialists dressed in hazmat suits, leads a small expedition into the void prepared for the worst. What they find on the other side however shocks them. (The following was taken directly from the after action manuscript of Frank Wilczek) "...it was amazing, a whole new world filled with carbon-based life forms! Joe Risner (One of the field experts) removed his suit and, to my interdiction, got down on the grassy, cartoon-ish landscape and began to laugh and roll around like a toddler. Personally, I think he just couldn't believe what he was seeing. The resemblance of this alien world to ours was unbelievable. But it wasn't until Ms. Renault (The other field specialist) climbed a small ridge during sample gathering and stumbled upon what looked to be small a settlement! The architecture seemed pre-Rennaisance, wooden buildings with primitive roofs ranging from small huts to large, two-story buildings. But what was more surprising was that we could observe movement in this small village!" Upon discovery of the settlement, Wilczek and his team left with samples from the new world in order to save first contact with the locals for a more experienced team.

August 18th 2015: Field agent Sarah Renault leads the first contact expedition through the portal and into the new world. She is accompanied by 15 others each with their own specific use to the consortium. Renault vividly describes her encounter with the locals as small, multicolored horse-like beings freely wandering the town. Puzzled, the group sauntered into town in order to locate the owners of these animals all the while receiving odd looks from these "horses". What follows is Renault's after action report on her visit to the new world. "...we wandered into town after observing the small horses with a purpose worth two-fold. The first, to explore the town and document our findings. The second, to find out who owned these animals. It shocked us to see them freely wandering town. What if they escaped or were startled and hurt someone? It made no sense to us. Upon arrival, the horses that noticed us did something remarkable. This I saw with my own eyes. The first few went wide-eyed and rushed into the houses! They just barged right in! We expected to hear complaints of the owners inside perhaps inquiring why there were horses in there homes yet all we noticed was a small corner of the curtains peel away and a few pairs of beady eyes stare back at us. The same followed throughout the rest of the visit. Not only did we observe the terrified actions of the horses, but also the complex architecture of the buildings in town. Jens, our field technician, was astonished when he observed a building with a large cupcake planted on the top. Brett Hurling, one of our field consultant agents, Stared in awe at a large building with complex and beautiful designs. Peering through the window we noticed mannequins of the equine sort and one scared, trembling horse in the corner. We moved on to what we believed to be the town square, hence the large spire in the middle of the courtyard followed by a fountain with a smiling equine poised on it's pedestal. we were becoming frustrated and about to venture further out of town when we heard talking from down the road. Talking! I ordered our consortium to halt and wait for the disembodied voice to round the corner. What I saw startled me. To the sound of clopping hooves, a small purple horse with an even smaller child-like creature hoisted on it's back was gingerly trotting down the road. We looked on in disbelief from around the corners of our hiding spots as we eagerly anticipated the arrival of the speaker. Eventually we gave up and revealed ourselves. Unbelievably, straight from the small horse's mouth, we were gifted with a "Whoa!". I called out to whomever it was that uttered the word yet the only reply, to my surprise, came from the horse. I approached it and provoked the animal with a subtle "hello" to which it replied the same!" The rest of Renault's report is a documentation of how the locals in question were actually the startled "ponies" they saw in the beginning. Renault goes on to explain how they are a peace-loving society and are classified under three categories: Unicorns, which can wield the fabled power of magic, Pegasi, which are blessed with the ability of flight and weather control, and finally earth ponies, which are as the ones we see on our Earth. She explains how they are ruled under a monarchy of two sisters which attain both the abilities of flight and an unbelievable amount of magic. After traveling to the capitol city and meeting the rulers of this new sentient race, Renault's team returned home with invaluable information.

September 8th 2015: After repeated visits, mankind has built a human embassy near the town of ponyville, the original town that was ventured into by Sarah Renault, and speaks of trade agreements with the sovereign country of "Equestria".

September 23rd 2015: While the leaders of the world attempt to mask this amazing finding to the people until they are deemed "ready", Tensions on the border of the mysterious Everfree forest and Equestria rise as both human and pony expeditions sent in disappear entirely leaving behind only the deserted campsites.

September 25th 2015: An army of dark, rigid, hole-filled ponies known to equestrians as "changelings" emerge from the forest and sack the city of Detrot.

September 26th 2015:Upon hearing the news of this full-fledged attack, Equestria declares war upon the changeling race and musters what armed forces it has.

September 29th 2015: Notified of the threat, the United Nations answers a call-to-arms to aid the pony ally.

October 3rd 2015: Dubbed a campaign abroad and overseas, the United States rallies it's own marine corps and begins training for war...

Note: This takes place in a world where MLP FIM doesn't exist. (Horrifying right?)

Prologue

Prologue

"All wars are civil wars, because all men are brothers."

- Francois Fenelon

Canterlot Castle, Throne Room 6:34PM (39 days after first contact with mankind)

It was a rather somber evening in Canterlot due to the fact that the Pegasi were behind schedule in weather duties. A brisk rain fell outside the stain-glassed windows of the royal hall and booming thunder could be heard in the distance. Because of recent events, what with the arrival of an entirely new alien race, everyday responsibilities had been halted for such an extraordinary happening.

Even the age-old ruler of the land, Princess Celestia, had not anticipated the disruption of commerce and her own royal duties. She sat quietly at her throne, contemplating the events of the past couple weeks for it was not but a few days ago she had discussed trade agreements between these "humans" and her own kind. They had come to an agreement to barter human commodities such as exotic foods, oils, and precious metals in exchange for Equestria's valuable, one-of-a-kind diamonds, sapphires, and ruby's.

All at once a blinding green light flashed in front of her eyes followed by the distinctive, royally stamped scroll, disrupting her thoughts. This was the twelfth letter this week from her apprentice, most likely describing another interaction between her and the humans, that of which Twilight Sparkle sought a deep interest in. After all, it had only been a few weeks since Sarah Renault's humble expedition visited Ponyville.

"Very well, lets see what she has to say this time." Celestia chuckled, unraveling the scroll.

Dear Princess Celestia,

Ms. Renault visited today and brought me one of those human deserts! What did she call them? Parfaits was it?

Celestia laughed quietly to herself, amused at Twilight's infatuation with human delicacies.

I offered her some daisy sandwiches but she politely refused, saying quote-unquote, "Isn't that just a bunch of flowers wedged in between two slices of bread?" Can you believe that? Apparently humans don't eat flowers OR hay! How ridiculous. They're really missing out on -

Once again, Celestia's train of thought had been interrupted by a loud slam coming from the end of the hallway. What now stood before her both puzzled and shocked her senses. Barely standing at the foot of her throne was a royal Pegasus guard adorned in armor that was tarnished, wet, and covered in dirty residue. Obviously exhausted, the ragged guard attempted to speak.

"Your highness... I... I need... need to show you"-

"Please, calm yourself my little pony and gather your thoughts." Celestia spoke in the most motherly voice possible.

"No time... must read... letter!" At this, the weary guard pony pulled a letter from his saddle pack with his teeth and hoofed it to Celestia, who promptly plucked it from his mouth and began skimming the document.

"Oh... oh my..." The words barely left her mouth before the rain-drenched letter dropped to the ground.

__________________________________________________________________

USMC Camp Pendleton San Diego, California (4 days after the sacking of Detrot)

"Lets move Roycewitz, the grass ain't gettin' any greener!"

Captain Arthur Ross of the 1st Marine division had been working his men all day on an extended training run after torrential downpours and hail had postponed their original schedule the day before.

"Aye skipper!" Shouted the sweaty, tired private.

The exercise was as such: Ross's troops would run an intricate obstacle course filled with zip-lines, walls, and barbed wire nets that the soldiers were instructed to crawl under while under live fire from Staff Sergeant Avery's SAW machine gun. Next, the men were to run a 30 minute "Currahee". This motto and form of training, borrowed from their friends in the airborne branch of the military, consisted of a timed jog up and down a nearby hill without a drink from their canteens while sporting full combat equipment and fatigues.

"Captain Ross, a word please?"

Spinning on his heels, Ross directed his attention to the voice. It was none other than Colonel James B. Seaton, the commander of camp Pendleton.

"Yes sir, of course sir!" Ross replied dutifully.

"Sergeant Avery, take over while I'm gone."

"Aye skip!"

Ross followed Seaton into his office and respectfully stood at attention while the Col. pulled out his chair and took a seat. The office walls were contoured with medals of the highest honor and plaques with degrees of all sorts.

"At ease son, and take a seat."

"Thank you sir." Said Ross.

"Now listen here Captain, and these orders come down from the top."

Seaton stood up, walked over to the door, and locked it. Once that was done, he returned to his seat and leaned in close, gesturing to Ross to do the same.

"We have orders to begin training for combat." Seaton said quietly.

He continued in this hushed voice.

"Apparently, a close ally with strategic importance to America is under attack by an unknown enemy."

"Who sir?" Said Ross, curious as to who needed the military aid of the United States.

"I cant say. General Taylor told us that our mutual friends were being threatened by enemy forces and we needed to intervene. Not just us but the whole damn United Nations. After that he just stood up and left the room. I'm just as confused as you are."

"Shit..." Replied Ross in disbelief, running a hand through his hair.

"Ain't that the truth. All I know is that we're to complete combat training and join our foreign allies at an area unknown to us at the time somewhere in Geneva, Switzerland. I trust you can inform your men of the news?"

"Yes sir, they'll be notified immediately." Ross reluctantly replied.

"Good, I expect you and your men can be combat-ready within a weeks time?" Asked Seaton.

"We can be ready in half that time sir!"

"Excellent. You're dismissed captain."

"Yes sir."

Ross rose from his seat, saluted, and left the room readying himself to tell the men of the 1st Marine division to ready themselves for war.

Outside, Ross's men were panting after completing their training run. Ross confronted them with the utmost respect, preparing himself for an elaborate speech in order to boost the morale of his troops.

"Alright boys bring it in." Ordered Ross.

The eager marines crowded around their captain, anxious to hear what he had to say, hit the mess-hall for some hot chow, and then the barracks for some well deserved rest.

Ross took a deep breath.

"Gear up men, we're going to war..."

Chapter 1

"You can't say civilization don't advance... in every war they kill you in a new way."

-Will Rogers

Geneva International Airport 3:25 P.M.

"Aw shit, GET DOWN!"

"Get some fire on that MG nest NOW!"

"ON IT- ARGH! I'M HIT!"

"SERGEANT ROSS TAKE UP HIS POSITION!"

"Cap?"

"DAMN IT I SAID TAKE UP HIS POSITION!"

"Cap?"

"NOW SERGEANT!"

"Captain!"

Captain Ross awoke with a start to the sight of Corporal Rossetti shaking him vigorously.

"You gonna be alright skipper?" Asked Rossetti.

"Yeah, sure kid. Just... uh... just a crazy dream." Ross replied groggily.

It had been an extensive, dreary 12 and a half hour ride from the states to Geneva and Ross had slept the entire way through. Peering outside the window of the C-130 he noticed the runway was completely devoid of commercial aircraft. He could already see other military vehicles and planes similar to his landing on the airstrip. Sitting back, he surveyed the inside of the cargo plane. He observed his fellow marines chattering on about the flight over and bragging about how many Swiss damsels they could woo in one sitting. To his right, he saw bundles of equipment that his troops would use in the days to come. Grenades, K-rations, extra clips, and the M252 mortars they would be lugging around the battlefield. It was actually rather odd that the heaviest pieces of equipment they were permitted to bring to this foreign land were their compact AT4 missile launchers and those cumbersome mortars.

"So cap, where'd they say we were shipping off to?" Inquired Sgt. Avery.

"I told you Dick, Seaton didn't say anything about our destination. Only that we pack light and get ready for a shit-storm."

Richard Avery was a stubborn man and almost didn't qualify to be a marine due to height issues. Avery was born and bred in the Bronx and almost always let his accent show. Ross went through boot camp with this man and served two tours-of-duty together as Corporals. They had been good friends ever since. Though he was arrogant, prideful, and often times got a little in over his head, he was as good a sergeant as any and a great soldier to have in your fox-hole.

"Well, the men and I were talking and we were just curious as to where we were gonna be stationed. The briefing was... well, Brief and we aren't exactly happy that we ain't gettin' any armored support." He complained.

Avery gestured to the black hawk helicopters out the window.

"I don't suppose those whirly birds are carrying Abrams tanks?" Avery said matter-of-factly.

Ross chuckled lightly at this classic sense of "sarge's" sarcasm.

"No Rich, I don't suppose so either." Ross noted with a smirk.

The plane lurched forward marking their descent onto the runway. Ross could hear the distinct chatter of his unit as they skidded across the ground.

"Hey someone wake up sleeping beauty!"

"Yo Gutierrez, I got 5 bucks I gib a tango before you do!"

"You're on pendejo!"

Ross made sure his troops would look gallant when they stepped off the C-130. After all, they are the best of the best. Only an idiot would think otherwise.

The aircraft halted on the runway.

He understood that there would be soldiers from other countries out there and he needed to represent the U.S.A. in the best way possible. He even took precautions to check for airsickness before the flight over.

The green light turned on and the bay door began to open up.

Soldiers of all nationalities peered into the craft, curious to see who had arrived.

The large door hit the tarmac and Pvt. Hamilton threw up all over the floor.

_______________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 3:30 PM

The meager town of Ponyville had been in an uproar since news of the changeling attack reached the humble village. The town square was one such example. Mothers were cradling their crying foals, ponies were attempting to arrange rides to a safer destination, and Ms. Mayor was caught dead in the middle of the chaos attempting to calm the crowd.

"Please everypony settle down, settle down please!"

A panicked stallion brushed by her and knocked her to the ground yet, resiliant as she was, the grey pony stood herself back up and tried to address the crowd again.

"Please just calm down! I'm sure everything will be alright!"

That was a lie. She hadn't a clue what to do. She thought being mayor was filing lots of paperwork and giving a speech every few months when she got the job. Then, out of the corner of her eye, she caught sight of one familiar little dragon.

"Spike! Spike!" She began to call out.

"Huh- oh hey there Ms. Mayor! Kind of crazy out here isn't it?"

The mayor spoke briskly and orderly.

"Quick Spike, I need to find Twilight! Have you seen her? Normally she's good at sorting these problems out."

"No, sorry Ms. Mayor I haven't. She got a letter telling her to visit Canterlot a few days ago. Princess Celestia asked her herself! Seemed pretty important at the time. The others had to go too. Rarity, Fluttershy, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie I mean."

The mayor gazed past him in disbelief. She now had to handle this problem all on her own. She sat on that thought as hundreds of screaming, terrified ponies jostled past her, not even bothering to quell the growing panic.

________________________________________________________

Canterlot City Gates (5 minutes later)

"So why do you think we're going to Canterlot Twilight?" Said Rarity

Twilight thought about her inquiry as they rolled along the cobblestone road in a carriage. It wasn't like Celestia to write her on such short notice asking her to visit Canterlot of all places. She could only assume it was something about the changeling attack on equestrian soil.

"Huh, Twilight?"

"Oh, sorry Rarity, I'm actually wondering that exact question." Twilight said, trying to satisfy her friend with her answer till she could come up with a real one.

"Well I hope she wants us to kick some changeling flank!" Rainbow Dash noted with her usual brash tone.

She was eager to meet these invaders head-on. She beat them last time, why should she have any trouble doing it again.

"I just hope we wont have to do any actual fighting. I'm no good at that. I would just get others hurt." Said Fluttershy, in her average timid voice.

"I completely understand darling, I wouldn't dare to touch those filthy mongrels again." Said Rarity.

"HUH- what if we threw them a PARTY! Maybe that's why they came after us that time! We didn't invite them to your brothers wedding!" Gasped Pinkie Pie.

"No, I don't think that either. But this doesn't make sense. The changelings don't just attack in broad daylight! And even then, this was no mere raiding party. They attacked us with an entire army!" Twilight said, with a growing sense of panic.

"We have arrived ma'am." Interrupted the royal guard.

The pearly gates of Canterlot were just as majestic as their last visit. The beautiful carvings adorned with gems were no such thing to pass by without noticing.

"I have orders to escort you to the throne room to speak with her royal highness."

"Ah just hope nuthins' happened t' the princess." Stated Applejack.

"Or my brother." Said Twilight earnestly.

____________________________________________________________

Canterlot Throne Room 3:40 PM

Upon entering the throne room Twilight's face lit up with awe. What was once the graceful stain-glassed walls of the hall was now a large board aligned with maps covered in large hoof-tacks marking positions. The large floor that was once graced with a crimson carpet was now filled with frantic ponies pacing about and reading documents off of tables and desks. And none other than the majestic princess her self was centered in the middle of a group of military advisers, her sister Luna, and two distinct bipedal figures.

Humans.

"Princess!" Twilight called out.

Celestia lifted up her head revealing an unfamiliar look. Instead of the usual kind, motherly look she wore, it was replaced by a look of irritation, concentration, and just plain old seriousness.

"What? I'm extremely busy!" She shouted in a yell reminiscent to the royal canterlot voice.

Twilight and the others shrunk in fear at this sudden outburst from their usually happy ruler.

"Oh, Twilight it's just you. I'm terribly sorry for yelling. Anyway, it's good you've all come." She said, reverting back to her normal voice.

"Girls, meet General Taylor and Major Ingram. They're coordinating their troops while they are stationed here."

The two humans looked up and smiled for the briefest of moments then returned their gaze to the different maps and documents spread among the tables. The puzzled ponies trotted up to the group in order to more closely examine what was happening, for they had many questions and few answers.

"Princess, where's my brother? Where's Shining Armor?" Asked Twilight.

"Oh... I'm sorry Twilight. You missed him by a few days." Said Celestia in a melancholy voice.

"A few DAYS?"

"Yes, my sister speaks the truth." Said Luna

"I'm sorry ma'am, but your brother was sent to rendezvous with our men at the entrance to this world and ours." Spoke General Taylor.

"Don't worry though." Said major Ingram.

"His welfare is beyond your worries. He'll be making first contact with the General's 'Marine Corps'. I'm sure there's nothing to worry about."

This 'Ingram' spoke in a voice reminiscent to a thick Trottingham accent. The way he spoke so nonchalantly about her brother. It infuriated her.

"Now then, lets get to the point." Spoke the princess.

"I summoned you 6 here because you are equestria's last line of defense. With the help of the elements, we can win this war quickly and decisively. I need you all by my side just in case, therefore, you are all now lieutenants in the royal equestrian army."

The group fell silent.

"I cant be a soldier!" Shouted Fluttershy.

"Being a soldier means hurting others and I cant do that!"

"I'm sorry Fluttershy but I have no choice. I need you in case the changelings make a move that I cant counter." Spoke the princess.

"Relax Fluttershy." Coaxed Rainbow.

"It's not like this is gonna be tough or anything. All we gotta do is beat the changelings with the power of friendship or whatever, untie the hostages, and we're in the clear. Simple as that!"

"Unfortunately Rainbow, It isn't." Said Celestia in a stern voice.

"Whaddya mean?" Inquired Rainbow.

"I mean, that Detrot wasn't attacked. It was completely destroyed. The changelings sacked the city and all inside."

"What?" Said Rainbow.

She began to chuckle as if she was just told a joke.

"That's impossible. There hasn't been a-

"Ponies have DIED Rainbow Dash!" Celestia spoke in a cold voice.

Died?

As in killed? There hadn't been a murder in equestria for hundreds of years.

"It's a good thing that our foreign friends have given us military aid. Their armies number in the thousands and we can only muster a few hundred royal guards." Scolded Celestia.

Rainbow shrunk down after being chastised for her arrogance. But War? There hadn't been a military conflict in equestria for as long as she could remember. In fact, she wasn't even aware of one since she hadn't even been born to witness one such event occur.

"We need to prepare ourselves for the storm to come. We are at War."

____________________________________________________

Chapter 2

"It is well that war is so terrible, lest we should grow too fond of it."

- Robert E. Lee

Geneva, Switzerland CERN laboratory 6:00 PM

Captain Ross and the 1st marine division were ordered to gear up immediately after landing and did so with quick efficiency. Given no time to interact with the other countries, they were herded into military transports and driven to an area they were told was the "Red zone," or the area of most hostile activity.

"I don't know skipper, this don't look like hostile ground to me." Noted Lt. Mildred

"Easy Frank, don't make the same mistake as last time. Remember Libya?" Said Ross.

"Heh, all too well sir."

Ross sat back and looked to his left outside the back of the truck. He saw the front of the Humvee carrying Colonel Seaton and other USMC officers. Anyone not in the military convoy would have beheld quite a spectacle. A long line of military vehicles stretching almost a mile long, housing soldiers from all over the world all being moved to the same destination.

"Still cant believe he's taggin' along."

Ross snapped back to reality. Looking to his right, he noticed Sgt. Avery was talking to him.

"Well, someone needs to supervise our troops in the field, and if it's gonna be anyone it'll probably be him. That man has more military smarts than most of us could ever learn in a lifetime." Noted Ross.

"So he's one a' those uh... military strategists?" Pvt. Wilcox chimed in.

"Yeah, something like that."

The convoy came to a halt followed by shouts echoing all around the column of vehicles. Ross poked his head out the back of the truck and saw a large building surrounded by military personnel milling around the area.

They had arrived.

"Dismount!" Yelled an authoritative voice, probably Seaton.

"Semper Fi!" Shouted the marines simultaneously as they hopped out of their transports.

"Standard column formation guys, right here." Ross said whilst pointing to the ground.

"We'll regroup at the parking lot!"

As they marched, Ross could hear the sounds of hundreds of boots hitting the concrete followed by orders shouted in different languages and dialects.

"Давай! Давайте двигаться!"

"Bewegung bleiben! lass uns gehen!"

"il ne faut pas prendre toute la journée!"

"Keep moving guys! We're almost there." Shouted Sgt. Avery.

Indeed they were, and as they drew closer, their unit saddled right up alongside a formation of foreign soldiers. They looked gruff, and kept glancing over at the marines as if they were from a different dimension.

"What's their problem?" Whispered Cpl. Mcreary.

One of the foreign soldiers began to speak among his comrades in a hushed voice.

"Whaddya' think he's saying?" Asked Sgt. Campo.

"Hey!" Shouted the soldier.

"He talkin' to us?" Said Avery.

"Эй, янки! Скажи своей сестре я сказал привет!" Said the soldier.

His unit erupted in laughter. They cackled even harder when they saw the confused faces of the Americans.

"Why I oughta'... those clowns better be talkin' about my polished boots or these are going up their asses!" Said Cpl. Mcreary.

"Easy Marc, they're Russians. Let 'em have their fun." Said Lance Corporal Childers.

"Yeah, whatever."

"All right line 'em up!" Shouted Ross upon arriving at their destination.

The marines gathered into tight rows in order to fit all the fighting men in the small parking lot. Ross inspected each of his troops from a distance. He observed the mortar squads, heavy weapons teams, and the rifleman. Ross grinned faintly. No matter how he classified them they were all still leather-necks. Raggedy-ass marines.

"Ten-hut!" Shouted Captain Ross when he noticed Colonel Seaton arrive to inspect the men.

"Alright listen up boys! I was given no actionable intel on where we're headed but I do know one thing. When we get there, there will be plenty of ass to kick!" Announced Seaton.

"Hoorah!" Shouted the marines.

"We're the tip-of-the-spear men, make me proud." Continued Seaton.

"Now then, form up and head inside for briefing in room 302. They're all yours captain."

And with that, the colonel left and disappeared inside the building.

"Fall in and regroup inside. Remember, room 302! 3-0-2! Shouted Ross.

Screams of merriment and cheer followed the marines inside as they entered the last place they would see on their earth for a long time.
_____________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 7:30 PM

Shining Armor, captain of the guard, led his troop of about 250 royal guards towards the town of ponyville. His soldiers ranged from pegasi to unicorns and even earth ponies. The column of troops marched down the main path into town not only to oversee the evacuation but to also make contact with General Taylor's "Marines".

"Captain."

Shining Armor looked to his left and into the face of Lt. Swift Wind. Her minuscule demeanor only masked her true ability. Though she was small and quite skinny, she made up for it in cunning and agility. He prized her for that and it was also the reason she was his second in command.

"Yes lieutenant?"

"These humans, have you ever met one? Don't get me wrong, I'd love to meet a new species any day of the week but I just happened to be in sick bay with hay fever when they showed up at Canterlot."

"Only a few. I've only met the two commanding officers residing with the princesses and the expedition that first came here a while back. You should know though that I don't trust them. They have a deceitful look about them. Also, we were much too welcoming. I still regret asking for aid from their armies. The thought of the humans coming here with their technology is frightening. Especially when it's built to wage war." Said Shining Armor.

"I see. It's just... the troops were talking and have been hearing rumors about these humans. Weird ones."

"And those are?" Shining Armor said, motioning for her to continue.

"Many things. For one, they eat meat!" Said Swift Wind in disbelief.

"Don't be ridiculous lieutenant. I made you my second-in-command for your intuition and sharp wit. Don't make me regret that just because you believed some stupid mares-tale."

"Sorry sir. I don't know what came over me."

"It's quite alright lieutenant. Just, please don't let it happen again."

"Yes sir." Said Swift Wind apologetically.

The column of troops neared the town and immediately witnessed the mass chaos that ensued there. One would think a twister conjured up by discord himself ravaged the town.

"Ms. Mayor?" Called out Shining Armor.

The town looked alarmingly emptied already, with a few remaining ponies still trying to evacuate on carriages drawn by volunteers from town with nowhere to go.

"Company! Fan out and assist anyone you can." Shining Armor ordered.

"Shining Armor!?" Said a familiar voice.

A distinct blue-green dragon appeared from a deserted pastry shop waving wildly. He wore a plastered smile that only one dragon in Equestria could possibly muster.

Spike.

"Spike?"

"Yeah! Whoa-"

Spike came skidding to a halt at the sight of all the royal guards behind his old friend he threw a bachelor party for.

"Things must have been pretty bad up in Detrot. Bet you guys whipped those changelings good though huh?"

"No Spike we..."

Shining Armor was at a loss for words. How had he not heard yet?

"We're at war Spike." The captain said in a weary tone.

"Oh my..."

Spike's smile left almost immediately.

"That's horrible. Oh no, Twilight! I've gotta-"

"It's okay Spike. She's fine. Everyone's in Canterlot under the protection of Celestia and Luna." Coaxed Shining Armor.

"Well, then why are you here?" Spike asked, wiping away the tears that had quickly formed in his eyes.

"You know about the humans right?" Asked Shining Armor.

"Yeah, like Ms. Renault?"

"Uh... sure. Well, we're here to meet humans. Human soldiers."

"Wow. Oh! Then you probably need to know where to meet them right?"

"That would be helpful."

"Uh... lets see if I remember, okay, you'll want to head um... north of the town for about a mile and then you'll find a small camp with these weird markings. That's where they'll come in from."

"Thanks Spike. Company! Form up!"

The soldiers regrouped in column formation and began marching out of town. Shining Armor turned around and called out to Spike.

"Don't worry! I'll make sure Twilight and everyone else gets home safely!"

"I know you will." Spike said quietly to himself.

And on that note, Spike was once again left alone in the dreary shell of what was once the lively town of Ponyville.

__________________________________________________________

Geneva, Switzerland CERN laboratory 7:40 PM

"What a load a' bullshit!" Shouted one of the marines.

"Please calm down. Understand that we are being completely serious!" Shouted Frank Wilczek.

"I sure as hell ain't going through some kind'a portal that looks like something outta Stargate just to rescue a buncha' stupid horses that look like they belong in my daughter's coloring book!" Yelled Sgt. Avery.

"Actually, they're ponies." Corrected Sarah Renault.

"...and whether you like it or not, they need our help!" She pleaded.

"Man, fuck this shit!" Yelled one marine.

"Yeah this shit is fucked up. I'm outta' here!" Shouted another.

Hearing this, many of the marines stood up and began to leave the large auditorium. Captain Ross was torn. Had all this just been a big waste of time? Did his troops lives just get interrupted because of some joke about colored "ponies"? But then again, they wouldn't bring half the world out here if they weren't telling the truth. Ross had to act fast.

So he did.

"SIT THE FUCK DOWN!"

The entire room fell silent. The marines that were leaving stopped immediately in their tracks. The marines that were thinking about leaving quickly changed their minds.

"I know we're all really confused right now, HELL I'm probably more mind-fucked than any of you right now, but we need to stick together on this. There has to be a reason they flew us out here and we can't just disobey a direct order from General Taylor!" Said Ross.

The room remained quiet.

"Lets just go with it, and hope nothing goes FUBAR. Got it?"

More silence. Ross took this as a yes.

"Good. Gear up and I'll meet you all by the portal thing-a-ma-bob in 5 minutes."

Ross's orders were followed by a series of grumbles and quiet 'yes sirs' which were coupled with more profane words that Ross pretended he didn't hear. On his way out, he passed professor Frank Wilczek.

"You owe me one." Said Ross as he passed by, patting the shaken man on the shoulder.

______________________________________________________

One mile north of Ponyville, Equestria 7:45 PM

Shining Armor and his troops arrived at the "campsite" that Spike had described earlier. There were crates of all sorts scattered all over the place alongside different tools and gadgets that littered the ground.

Yep. Humans had been here.

"Company halt!" Ordered Shining Armor.

For a while, they just stood there. Stood there and waited for something, anything to happen. It was then that Lt. Swift Wind approached Shining Armor.

"Captain?"

"Yes Lieutenant?"

"What exactly are we looking for here? Because most of the troops haven't seen humans before either."

"Well... they walk on two legs instead of four."

"Wow. How odd." Said Swift Wind.

"Yes, I know. Um... they have two other appendages they call, uh... arms I think? Anyway, they have these stubby little things at the ends called hands. That's about all I know really. I mean, other than the basics. You know, head, eyes, mouth, nose, and ears. But other than that, that's all I know."

"Hmm, how interesting. And these humans, do they-"

Swift Wind was cut off to the sight of a peculiar dark-green boot followed by a longer appendage materializing in mid-air, stepping through where there was once nothing but air to where there was now a thin, transparent, purple wall.

_________________________________________________________

Chapter 3

If we don't end war, war will end us.

- H.G. Wells

One mile north of Ponyville, Equestria 7:45 PM

Captain Ross felt a cool sensation overwhelm him as he passed through the electromagnetic field that the device created. It was no wonder there would be no armored support. The portal was only about 8 feet in diameter and 7 feet high. His men were instructed to slowly pass through the arch in rows of four in order to maintain a steady, controlled stream of troop input. They were told to lock arms so as to not be separated during the transition from their world to the next. Ross made the first daring step while coupling his arm to Sgt. Avery's, who was coupled to Lt. Mildred, who was coupled to one very nervous Pvt. Martin.

Fwump!

In less than a second, Ross, Avery, Mildred, and Martin face-planted onto a soft, grassy surface. Ross looked up, spitting dirt from his mouth.

Wait, dirt?

"Uhhhh, Captain?"

But Ross was too flabbergasted at the sight set before him to acknowledge whoever said that. Ross thought he was staring at a painting. Dainty trees and small hills pocked the rolling grasslands that he now looked upon.

What happened to the laboratory?

"Cap?"

Ross looked to his left and right in order to locate the speaker. He observed Lt. Mildred mouthing words to him.

He talkin' to me? Ross thought in his groggy state.

He saw Sgt. Avery staring in awe at something in front of him. To his left, he noticed Pvt. Martin emptying the contents of his stomach.

What are you looking at Richard? Ross thought as he stared at the beleaguered sergeant.

Ross stood up and began scanning the area. His head slowly panned right.

Hmm, lets see. Some shrubs, a few clumps of grass, a bunch of horses clad in armor, some kind of- wait. What?

Ross squinted at the group in front of him. What he saw nearly put him out.

Captain Ross observed a large number of quadrupeds bearing armor that looked like it belonged in a medieval times exhibit. They were no more than a few feet tall, the tallest in the center almost reaching up to his neck. All staring at them with curious looks.

Fwump!

Behind them, four more soldiers fell, looked up, and had the same reaction as sergeant Avery. They just stared. This went on for 45 more minutes until all of the 1st marine division emptied into the land, all the while not making a sound.

_______________________________________________________________

One mile north of Ponyville, Equestria 8:30 PM

In the waning light of the day, Captain Shining Armor looked on in nervous awe. The seemingly never-ending stream of humans finally ended with a loud whoosh, confirming that the portal behind them had closed. Aside from the occasional gasp of shock from the humans and the uneasy breaths from his guard ponies, it was eerily quiet the whole time. Shining Armor was reminded of how odd these strange, bipedal creatures looked the moment the first few stepped through the doorway to their world.

These were definitely different from the other humans he had seen.

They wore weird, camouflaged clothing that was covered in pouches filled with Celestia-knows-what. Each of them carried these clumsy looking tubes with grips that those hands of theirs easily contoured to. He could only assume they were all male, taken from their gruff appearance. All the humans shouldered a pack of some type on their back and bore a round helmet that capped their head, somewhat similar to his own when he was on parade duty save the feathered crest on top.

The two groups stared for what seemed like a century when one of the humans decided to break the ice.

"Uh, hello?" Dared one of the humans.

Although they all looked the same, Shining Armor had eyed this one peculiarly for the duration of the stare-down. He looked well defined and bore two silver bars on his uniform.

Was he the leader? The confused pony thought.

"Are you the, uh... marines?" Ventured Shining Armor.

The group of humans recoiled at the sound of his voice.

"Holy SHIT! That thing just talked!" Shouted one of the humans.

"Mother of god..." One marine speculated as he slowly removed his glasses.

"Can you say something else?" One of the marines beckoned at the pony captain, the entire group consumed with boy-ish wonder and slowly advancing at the startled ponies, now rid of all fear at the expectation of speaking to what they assumed were just talking animals.

"Um, welcome to Equestria. I'm cap-" Shining Armor was interrupted by a thunderous roar of acknowledgement from the humans.

"Did you hear that?"

"Holy crap that thing talked!"

"Wait till the guys back home hear about this one!"

The distinguished human stepped forth.

"Alright shut the fuck up!"

Both groups cowered slightly at this.

"Are you uh..."

The human pulled out a small slip of paper from one of his pouches and read it aloud.

"...Shining Armor?" The human guessed.

Shining Armor sighed in relief that he was finally able to speak without interruption.

"Yes. Yes I am. Captain Shining Armor, and I would just like to-" He was once again interrupted by none other than the distinguished human himself.

"Charmed." He noted, not really seeming to care.

"I'm Captain Arthur Ross. United states marine corps." Ross informed with a quick salute.

"You said this was, um..."

He pulled out the slip of paper again.

"Excess-tria?"

"Equestria." Corrected the now slightly annoyed Shining Armor.

"Right. We're under direct orders from our commander to assist you guys in any way possible." Stated Ross.

"Great. Well, we can start by fortifying the town south from here. " Said Shining Armor.

"Lieutenant Swift Wind!"

She approached the pony captain, her head held high, and stood at attention in order to land a good first impression on the humans.

"Captain?" She inquired.

"Reorganize the troops and regroup in town. I want standard sentry positions just like we discussed earlier. Is that understood?" Ordered Shining Armor.

"Yes sir! You heard the captain! Form up and regroup in town!"

The group of guard ponies assembled fast and marched at a quick pace toward the village.

"Captain? I assume you can follow us in proper order as well?" Asked Shining Armor, testing the humans, expecting an undisciplined, mindless rabble to ensue.

"You got that right pretty boy." Said Ross, undeterred by the pony captain's snark remark.

"Fall in! Column formation! Sergeant Avery, address those ranks!"

"Aye skipper!" Said the soldier, walking down the neat aisle of troops.

"Suck in that gut private!" The human said, whacking the other in the stomach.

"Lieutenant Mildred, mark time!" Ordered Ross.

"Yes sir! Left! Left! Left right left!"

Shining Armor was surprised to say the least. Here he was expecting a pathetic excuse of a fighting force from these seemingly young, undisciplined troops, but instead he got a formidable unit that was able to march in time and formation.

He was glad they were on his side.

"Coming captain?" Asked the human commander as he marched alongside his unit.

Shining Armor blushed in embarrassment. He pondered his question as he observed the manner of equipment the humans carried and the pride they bore on their faces as they briskly stepped by, following his own soldiers into town.

_____________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 8:36 PM

Captain Ross and his marines marched double-time to catch up to the ponies already headed into town. He passed by the pony captain Shining Armor a few minutes ago and didn't even bother to take a glance. He already didn't like him.

"So cap, when are we getting relief from the rest of the divisions?" Asked Sgt. Campo.

That was a good question. First, they had to establish radio contact with general Taylor in the capitol city and without a satellite to go by, they had to resort to simple radio com-link.

"Can't say sergeant. Maybe sometime tomorrow. We still need to speak with the general about the situation at hand." Answered Ross.

"Gotcha."

Ross continued on in silence. His men did so as well. This surprised him, as his marines were always so brash and talkative. Maybe it was the fact that they had just stepped into a world completely different and alien to their own.

"Your soldiers are very obedient."

Ross swung his head right to the voice that had just hailed him. It was the pony captain, Shining Armor.

"Yep. Any disobedience they had in them was roughed out during boot camp." Ross said.

"Boot camp?" Said the estranged pony.

"Heh, it's pretty much just basic training."

"That doesn't sound that bad." Said Shining Armor, not seeming to be impressed.

"Yeah, only you've got 3 pissed-off staff sergeants yelling down your throat every five seconds. The food ain't much either. Well, it's never anything special when it comes to being a leather-neck."

"Leather-neck? I thought you were marines?"

"Oh, it's just a nickname. Call us what you like, we're still just marines."

"Ah, I see. All my soldiers you saw back there are just royal guards. You see, we Equestrians don't have a military. We haven't seen any real conflict since the changeling invasion a few months ago." Said Shining Armor.

"A what-ling?" Asked the confused human.

"Changelings. They used their cloaking abilities to infiltrate the palace and impersonate my wife on our wedding day in an effort to overthrow our current rulers."

"Jeez, and on your wedding day too. That's rough." Said Ross.

"Yes, and now they've returned to ransack our country and call it their own. They're the reason we're at war now."

"So that's who we're gonna be fighting then? Changelings?" Asked Ross.

"That's right, and we'ed best be prepared when they come. Their armies number in the millions. Their queen, Chrysalis, raises them in hives like bees. Growing up, they're taught undying devotion to the queen, even if that means giving your life for her. They're fanatical in nature and don't usually submit to capture. One would rather die before it was taken captive by us."

"Damn. Sounds heavy, and you guys don't have any military to combat this threat?"

"Unfortunately, no."

"Yet, your guards act as a para-military force. By the way, how many you got?"

"250 guards. Most of them haven't seen combat yet though."

"Shit. A bunch of greenhorns." Said Ross in disbelief.

"Excuse me?" Said Shining Armor.

"Raw recruits."

"Oh." Said Shining Armor, his voice trailing off as he stared off into the distance.

It wasn't until now that he truly realized how desperately they actually needed the help of the humans. Two hundred and fifty guards against millions of changelings driven by vengeance since their last humiliating defeat at the hands of him, his wife, and his sister and her friends. Just contemplating that made it seem the most foolish move in equestrian military history.

They were going to have to train a lot more guards.

"Hey is that our town?" Questioned Ross.

In the distance, Shining Armor could see a small village with many quaint, little houses dotting the cobblestone streets.

"Mm-hm. That's Ponyville." Confirmed Shining Armor.

One of the marines in the column broke out laughing.

"Snrkkkktt, ha ha ha, Ponyville? Please, someone turn off Disney channel."

"Disney- What?" Asked Shining Armor, confused as why the human was laughing.

"Forget it, it's nothing. Oh, and private?" Said Ross.

"Uh, sorry sir."

"Yeah, shut the hell up."

The combined forces of humans and ponies approached the outskirts of the humble town and began to walk slower, nearing their final destination and ready to rest after the long eventful day for both the races.

"Well we'ed love to get the dime-tour but we got buisness to take care of. I can however, offer up some of my boys to help patrol the perimeter."

"Good, we'll need the extra eyes to watch out for changeling raiding parties. Although, we haven't actually come in contact with them yet."

"Alright. I'll assemble my guys and order them to fortify some of your positions. Don't worry, they're pretty vigilant. Harris over there once stayed up for about 3 nights straight on one can of Red Bull."

"What's Red Bull? You know what, forget I asked." Asked Shining Armor, unsure whether the infinite stream of human oddities would ever end.

"Alright lets get to work. Everyone fall in on me!" Said Ross.

The marines shuffled into the somewhat confined quarters of the town square, eager to hear what Ross had to say.

"Alright listen up. Where gonna establish radio com-link with General Taylor and find out about when we're getting reinforcements. In the meantime, we need to assist our friends here in fortifying the town, so I need 1st squad to cover the north and west sides of town. 2nd squad, you guys have the east and south. Everyone else fan out and get some shut-eye. I want shifts changed every half hour. Got it? Good, lets hop to it people!"

In an instant, much to the surprise of the guard ponies watching, the marines sprang forth from their listening stances to find their ordered positions rather quickly.

In less than a few minutes, the human soldiers managed to locate gaps in the defenses and positions of interest and filled them in quickly.

In other words, the humans stuck to themselves, and the ponies preferred it that way.

_____________________________________________________________

Everfree forest a few miles south of Ponyville 8:56 PM

In the advanced darkness of the Everfree forest, a tired, panting set of hoofs could be heard running towards a growing campfire. If whatever light that could shine through the thick leaves of the Everfree were there, one would notice a dark, galloping figure dotted with holes. But it was night, so any attempts at spotting a creature like this would be futile.

Perfect conditions for a changeling scout.

The changeling captain, a tough, lumbering behemoth halted the changeling.

"Scout, report!" Ordered the captain.

With a few words that couldn't be heard through his heavy panting, the scout leaned in and whispered to the captain.

"I see. Hasten to her royal highness's tent at once."

And he did so with such speed that could have rivaled any flying courier.

The tent that housed the queen of the changelings wasn't much, but it was massive compared to the small rags the changeling soldiers were provided to sleep on.

"Your highness 'pant' I've urgent news." Spoke the scout with the utmost respect upon unfurling the flaps of the tent.

"Then speak and begone. I have a war to fight." Spoke the changeling queen in a cold, unforgiving voice.

"The ponies have fortified the town of Ponyville with a small detachment of guards."

"Tell me something I don't know fool. You're wasting my time."

The guards in her tent tensed and prepared to remove the meaningless scout from her royal highness's view.

"No wait! There's more, much more. The humans have allied themselves with the ponies. They've sent military forces to aid Celestia and her infernal nephew, that Shining Armor."

"Hm, the arrival of the humans was unprecedented, but no matter. Tomorrow, we will assault the town and crush their meager defenses!" Said queen Chrysalis with a triumphant, determined voice.

"Now get out of my sight. I must relay these orders to my commanders."

"Yes my queen." Said the humble soldier as he bowed and quickly backed out of the tent to rejoin his unit for the coming attack.

______________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 9:45 PM

"God damn it! Why wont this fuckin' thing work?" Yelled Lt. Mildred.

"I don't know, adjust the frequencies. Try straightening out the antenna." Added Captain Ross.

Ever since Ross gave out the orders to strengthen the perimeter defenses, he and a few others, including Shining Armor and some of his troops, holed up inside the town hall and began to fiddle with the small radio they were given. The entire town had been evacuated by then and most of the homes were free for the soldiers to occupy.

"Perhaps I could be of some assistance?" Chimed in Shining Armor.

"Naw, I doubt it. This is some heavy, military-grade equipment right here. Even I don't know what to do with it." Said second lieutenant Harding.

Swift Wind stood on the side, wondering just what the hay was going on. She had been observing for quite some time now since she had set up the outer defenses.

"Maybe I could take a look at it?" She braved.

"No thanks missy. I'm afraid you might break it even further." Said Mildred.

"Eh, let the girl try. It's not like we're getting anywhere." Said Ross, motioning for her to have a go at it.

Being a pegasus, she hadn't much skill with anything technological at all. That was a job for the egg-heads back in the research departments.

She trotted up and observed the strange, metal machine.

It was plugged in to a portable battery that gave it power. That much she understood. The rest was a mystery. The screen was just blank static and made a peculiar buzzing noise whenever the humans fiddled with the nobs and handles. Swift Wind was confused but didn't want to look like an idiot in front of her commanding officer let alone the humans. So she did the only thing that came to mind at the time.

She gave the machine a quick, hard buck.

Everyone reeled back at the sight of her kicking the box and the one named Harding screamed in such a high pitch one would think a filly had just seen a ghost.

"Jesus, look what you did! You... you.. fixed it." Said Harding in awe.

Indeed she had. The screen came to life with different symbols and a distinct voice crackled through the receiver.

"Ross? You there? Its Taylor." Said the voice.

Ross scrambled for the receiver and stuttered a surprised answer through the microphone.

"I- uh, yes sir! I'm here. W-we're all here, sir." Said Ross

"Good, good. How're you enjoying Equestria?"

"Um, it's fine sir. Very accommodating." Said Ross.

"Alright, and you arrived without any problems?"

"Yes sir."

"Great. I don't suppose you've made the rendezvous with the detachment of guards we sent you?"

"Yes sir. We're encamped in the town of Ponyville and awaiting your orders."

"Okay listen up. The rest of the marine divisions and the other countries will be arriving in two days."

Two days? What are we supposed to do until then? Thought Ross.

"You're to hold that town until relieved by reinforcements sent by the princesses. As we speak, they're training more guards and have sent out a decree stating all towns and refugee camps are to begin training a local militia in order to combat the changeling threat, which I trust you've learned about by now."

"Yes sir I have."

"Good. I expect a full sitrep tomorrow by 1700 hours, Got it? That's five o'clock."

"Understood sir."

"Okay. Good luck captain. Taylor out.-"

Talking could be heard in the back-round of the general, interrupting him.

"Why art thou speaking into a metal box? Doth explain at once." said the voice.

"I'm communicating to my troops on the front-lines. Now please-"

Taylor was once again interrupted.

"How dost thou speak-eth to thy soldiers if we are here? Might they be housed in that small box? Allow me to look."

Muffled sounds could be heard on the mic, followed by Taylor's voice.

"Your highness, please get away from the mic." Said Taylor.

"We see nothing! It's just a black box!"

"Give me that!"

Shouts of protest could be heard in the back-round followed by more muffled noises.

"Sorry captain, like I said earlier, good luck and godspeed."

The radio stopped crackling and Taylor's voice could no longer be heard.

It was quiet for a while, everyone exchanging awkward glances for a bit until Mildred piped up.

"What the hell was that?"

Everyone stifled a laugh and went on their way, now well informed and well armed to deal with the coming threat.

_____________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 11:34 PM

Captain Ross and Shining Armor had gone out to inspect the perimeter defenses surrounding the town and after close examination of a few sandbag walls, palisades, and tripwires, the two plopped down in an empty foxhole to wait the night out.

"Well. the defenses seem ready. All we gotta do now is wait."

"Yeah, unless we get attacked." Said Shining Armor.

"Damn, and I thought I was the pessimistic one." Said Ross, chuckling to himself.

The cool night air was interrupted only by the distinct chatter of the troops and the torches that lit the small village. Ross looked over at one of the campfires and sniffed the air.

"Mmm, smells good."

"I've been meaning to ask, what is that stench?" Asked Shining Armor.

"Gee, I don't know. They could be cooking any number of things."

"Cooking? Since when do field rations require cooking?" Asked the estranged pony.

"Well, maybe Hoffman's cooking his homemade sausages. Or Wilson might be heating up his beef jerky the way he likes it." Ross said nonchalantly.

"Wait, What?" Yelled Shining Armor.

"Jeez, calm down! What is it?" Asked Ross

"M-meat! You EAT meat?" Said the pony in disbelief.

"Uh, yeah!? Protein! You ever heard of it?"

"Oh my-"

Shining Armor couldn't finish his sentence due to the fact that the daisy salad he'ed eaten earlier had filled his mouth.

"Damn, are you alright?"

"NO!" Shining Armor said between convulsions.

Finally finished, Shining Armor spoke angrily toward this beast he had lost all respect for.

"That is vile! You can't just kill something and eat it! That would be stooping to the changeling's level!"

Sgt. Avery came by wondering what the commotion was, holding a grilled sausage in his hand.

"You okay skipper? I heard screaming."

"Yeah we're good. Pony boy over here is just having a breakdown." Said Ross with a grin on his face.

"Jeez what for?"

Shining Armor looked up and convulsed again, actually seeing the meat being devoured first-hand.

"Dear Celestia get that out of your mouth!"

Swift Wind approached the group, curious of the commotion as well.

"Captain? Are you alright?" Asked the lieutenant.

"Don't look lieutenant, it's too vile to bear witness to!"

"What-"

But Swift Wind was too late. She saw what was in the human's hand and understood immediately. She pulled a hoof to her mouth just in time to stop it from releasing it's contents.

"Oh for the love of- we eat meat! Deal with it!" Said Ross.

Shining Armor got up and left to go find a different place to think in order to piece together what just happened. Swift Wind did just the same leaving Avery and Ross sitting there with the fresh stench of vomit lingering in the air.

"You want to bunk down with us for the night skip?" Asked Avery.

"Much obliged sergeant." Said Ross, quickly getting up in order to vacate the bile filled hole he was sitting in.

______________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 10:00 AM

After calling a meeting the next morning with his soldiers and telling them the ghastly truth, Shining Armor and his troops had to tolerate the fact that all humans ate meat, as sick as it sounded. After that mess was cleared up, the two armies ate breakfast and resumed positions in their dugouts. This time, the two races shared foxholes, including Shining Armor and Captain Ross.

"Still can't believe we got 'em to share foxholes." Said Ross

"Yeah I get ya'. My soldiers were just as reluctant to hunker down with your men."

Even if they agreed to share their defensive positions, they still obviously didn't like it. Ross and Shining Armor could hear the evidence clear as day.

"Get yer' damn hoof off my leg."

"Quit steppin' on my tail!"

"Get that wing out of my face!"

"Stop hanging your clothes on my horn when I'm asleep!"

Although the arguments often sounded comical, the commanders had to continuously step out of their trench and approach another in order to quell a growing stalemate.

"These guys never learn do they?"

"Yeah, if only we could get them to get along better." Said Shining Armor.

"Better start packing up toiletries, last time I left my toothbrush out it-"

Ross was interrupted by a shout from a nearby guard pony. They recognized him as the scout they sent out that morning. Panting, the guard began to speak in ragged breaths.

"Captain! I've spotted a changeling army approaching from the south! They're about 3 miles out. If we hurry, we can intercept it and bring the fight to them!

"Excellent. Assemble the troops. We'll meet them on the field and charge them head on. This ends here." Said Shining Armor.

"Whoa whoa whoa! What?!" Yelled Ross.

"Didn't you just hear? The changelings are on the way! Prepare your men for battle and get ready to march out."

"Your kidding me right? You aren't really just going to walk right out there and meet them head on are you?"

"Um, yeah. That's the idea. We're an army. It's what we do. So I suggest you rally your men for battle while I do the same."

Ross couldn't believe what he was hearing. They still fought like line infantry. He could only imagine the amount of losses they would suffer. Memories flooded into his mind of videos he was shown in history class of battles like Gettysburg and Antietam back in the 1800's. The blood. The carnage. No, war had changed, and he was about to turn the tide of battle in their favor.

He could use that to his advantage.

"Firstly, no your not! Your going to stay right here and dig in with us. If we're gonna do this where doin' it our way." Said Ross.

"Bu-"

"Secondly, we ain't gonna form up into battle lines and go Tom Cruise on them either. That's just stupid." Chastised the now angered Ross.

Both ponies and humans alike stood up out of their foxholes, curious to find out what all the bickering was about.

"So I suggest you rally your soldiers and get them dug in. We'll handle the rest." Said Ross

Without allowing another word to be said, Ross took off toward his own men, leaving one embarrassed Shining Armor behind.

"Alright gather round guys!"

The marines formed up in circle, with captain Ross in the center.

"Listen up, we've just received word that a large changeling force is on the way."

Groans and incoherent mumbling could be heard from the men.

"I know, I know. Hey, what did you expect, we geared up for a full combat zone. Anyway, we need to start posting troops at our defenses and begin setting up the mortars. Jack, that's you. I want them positioned in the courtyard in the town square.

"Aye skip!"

"Jacobs, gather your sniper team and put 'em up in that bell-tower."

"You got it cap."

From afar, the guard ponies hadn't even begun positioning troops. They just watched the humans and how quickly they reacted to Ross's orders.

"Mildred, take your men, and strengthen the east and west side of town. Harding, you got the north and south sides."

"Yes sir!"

"Aye skipper!"

"Listen, I don't care what differences you have with these ponies, but I need you men to hunker down with them for this one. We'll be too spread out if we don't. I want at least one rifleman in each foxhole. Avery, position your SAW gunners so they have firing lines on all sides. Oh, and keep your AT-4's at hand. You never know when we might need 'em."

The marines nodded briskly, now pumped up for the battle to come.

"Got it? Good, lets get this done!"

"Hoorah!"

Shining Armor stared at how easily Ross was able to issue orders like that. Quick and precise.

"Company, gather around!" Yelled the pony captain.

The ponies organized themselves in a neat circle, with Shining Armor in the center.

"Change of plans, we're going to 'dig in' and protect the town." Shining Armor said slowly, unfamiliar with the term "dig in".

He received nods from his troops, signifying they understood and were ready to carry out his orders.

"Good, Swift Wind?"

"Yes captain?"

"Split the troops up in two groups. Send 125 guards to the east and west sides and another 125 to the north and south."

"Yes sir."

"Okay, I know you may not like these humans right now, but they're our best bet at fighting the changelings right now, so I want at least one pony to each foxhole. Unicorns, be ready to fire your lethal knockout spells when I give the order."

Lethal. There was a word they hadn't heard in a while.

"Pegasi, refrain from flying. You'll be an easy target for the changelings. Understand?"

He received reluctant nods from each of his troops. He sighed in discomfort though.

They really are raw recruits. He thought.

And they were. No one in the group before him had any combat experience before, not even him. The only real fighting any of them did was during the first and final hours of the invasion during his wedding, and even then it was over before anyone could really throw in a good buck.

"Then lets move out."

"Yes sir!"

Shining Armor trotted over to Ross and his lieutenants in the middle of town to help oversee the defenses.

"Anyways, I want- Oh, good it's you. Come over here." Said Ross, gesturing with a hand.

"We're just finishing up the preparations."

"Good, good. Hey, what are- mortars?" Asked the confused pony.

"What those?" Said Ross, pointing at the courtyard.

Shining Armor looked behind him and witnessed quite a sight. Four large tubes were being propped up on the ground and a few of the humans were standing next to them, fiddling around with the nobs and handles. He remembered these from the beginning when the humans first arrived. He thought there was something off about those larger tubes.

"Yeah those." Said Shining Armor, his voice trailing off.

"Those are our M252 mortars. They're light, compact, and pack one hell of a punch when you aim 'em right."

"Those are projectile launchers? How are you supposed to hit something when you point them up at the sky like that?"

"Heh, no no. They launch a highly explosive round using trajectory and angle. Good for defending small towns like this one." Ross said, looking through his binoculars.

Explosive? What were they getting themselves into?

__________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria (2 hours later)

Corporal Higgins was posted in a small foxhole on the south side of town accompanied by a jittery unicorn named Yellow Star. They'd been sitting on opposite sides of the dug-out in order to avoid conversation with one another, no matter how awkward the silence was.

Yellow Star wasn't exactly excited either. He was cold, hungry, and sitting next to a creature he had never seen in his life. The fact that they were about to start killing things when the time came wasn't helping either. He needed to say something though. If the changelings that were on the way didn't kill him, the silence would.

"So, you got any family back home?"

Yellow Star recoiled at the sound. Mostly because it wasn't coming from his mouth.

"Uh, yeah. Two younger brothers, one older sister, mom, dad. You know." Said the unicorn.

"Got a girl?" Asked the human.

"Heh heh, yeah." Yellow Star levitated a small locket out from underneath his breastplate and clicked it open. By now, the human and the pony had inched closer.

"See?"

The picture was of a young mare in her prime and smiling. The inscription "come home soon" was written on the bottom.

"Heh, yep. That's a keeper." The human said with a warm smile on his face.

"How about you?" Asked Yellow Star.

The human pulled out a picture from his front-left pocket, facing it in the direction of his partner. It showed a feminine version of his species grasping the shoulders of two smaller humans. They were all smiling.

"My wife and kids." Said the human, his face plastered with a goofy smile. Probably remembering better times with his family.

"What's her name?" Asked the unicorn.

"Lilith. That's my son, Kenny and my daughter Julia." Said Higgins, pointing to each corresponding figure.

"What's your wife's name? He asked.

"Emerald. Her name is Emerald." Responded Yellow Star.

"Any kids?"

"We were thinking about it. But then, well... all this happened." Said the unicorn with a frown.

"Oh, I see." The human said, trying to change the subject.

"Higgins. Chester Higgins." The human said extending a hand.

"Oh, Yellow Star." Said the pony, holding out his hoof with a smile.

The two shook and all was quiet again.

"By the way, I've been meaning to ask you. What are these?" Yellow Star said, carelessly levitating a small metal ball out of a nearby crate.

Higgins went wide-eyed.

"Jeez don't touch that!" He said, lunging forward and grabbing the ball.

"What, what'd I do!?" The pony frantically asked.

"Don't touch these. They're highly explosive fragmentation grenades. You'll blow yer' ha- hoof off with these!" Scolded the human.

"Highly explosive? Those look like something you play ball with." Said Yellow Star.

"It'll be one hell of a game of catch then, huh?"

The two stared at each-other for a moment, contemplating Higgins' form of off-color humor.

"Snrrkktt, HA HA HA!"

"Heh heh, HA HA HA!"

Both of them burst out laughing, prompting stares from all the other foxholes. Were they actually getting along? The others in their units couldn't believe it.

"Heh, that was a good one." Said Yellow Star.

"Yeah. I oughta' use that one again!" Said Higgins.

They would have enjoyed the moment longer if it hadn't been for the sound of trumpeting and the sight of two thousand, bloodthirsty changelings charging from the tree-line.

______________________________________________________

Chapter 4 (Or more accurately, the chapter in which the manure hits the rotating fan blades)

Chapter 4 (Or more accurately, the chapter in which the manure hits the rotating fan blades)

In peace, sons bury their fathers. In war, fathers bury their sons.

-Herodotus

Ponyville, Equestria 12:01 PM

Through the clear lens of his industrial grade binoculars, captain Ross could observe the changeling line, which had formed about 100 feet from the southern tree-line and about 500 yards away from their positions. He ordered the troops holding the other sides of town to converge toward them in order to strengthen their defenses.

His plan was coming together perfectly.

"Man, these guys are ugly mother fuckers." Ross said.

"What was your brilliant plan again?" Said a quivering Shining Armor.

"They expect us to come out there and fight them like line infantry, but we've got something else in mind. In a few minutes, I'm gonna order Sgt. Courtland to start dropping rounds on their lines with the mortars. It'll either scare 'em off or force them to come at us. Right into the iron sights of my SAW gunners and your unicorns. Either way, we inflict heavy casualties on them. I just hope they choose to run rather charge our defenses."

"Sounds pretty foolproof. We just can't afford any retreats on our behalf. We'll need everyone to hold their position if we're gonna keep these guys at bay." Said Shining Armor in a worried tone.

"That's what I'm hoping doesn't happen. Jack! Sight in the main changeling line and open fire!" Ordered Ross.

"Aye skipper! Martin, targets are 500 yards out! Load HE rounds and adjust 32 degrees north!" Yelled sergeant Courtland.

The four mortar teams began setting their mortars to the correct coordinates and notified Courtland they had finished with a simple word that meant they were ready to fire.

"Hanging!"

"Hanging!"

"Hanging!"

"Hanging!"

The four squads each had one man holding a high explosive round in his hand over the receiving end of the mortar and another soldier with the mortar sight ready to adjust coordinates in order to more effectively hit their target after each shot.

All Jack Courtland had to do to start the bloodbath was say one little word.

"Fire!"

__________________________________________________________________

Equestria, Ponyville 12:03 PM

Hive member 30,262 stood ready and able in his formation, eager to kill in the name of the queen. Both humans and those wretched ponies.

"Prepare to charge!" Yelled the captain.

The changeling could see the humans and ponies were waiting in small holes dug in the ground.

Ha. They're too scared to fight us. None can withstand the might of the changelings! He thought to himself.

Just then, he could hear a single voice rise over all the others. What was odd, was that he could hear it over the yelling and screaming of his own comrades let alone the ponies on the other side.

"Fire"

The others heard it too, noted by the fact that they'd shut up for a second in order to locate the source of the voice.

Instead, they got a faint whistle.

Hive member 30,262 looked up and saw nothing but heard plenty. Deafening explosions could be heard down the formation as the changeling line lit up in a fiery storm. In the short time he had, he counted how many he heard.

1...

2...

3...

Boom!

Hive member 30,262 was blown upward and landed on the ground with a messy thud. Burnt and scared, he counted the last explosion off as the light left his eyes forever.

____________________________________________________

Equestria, Ponyville 12:04 PM

All down the line, Ross could hear the entire division whooping and cheering at the sight set before them. The ponies though, including Shining Armor, just gawked. They had obviously never seen firepower like this before and were stunned at the display of it.

"So many... dead." Said Shining Armor, trailing off as he gazed at the fallen enemy soldiers.

Ross looked over and felt pity for him. He'd obviously never seen carnage like this before.

And we're just gettin' started. He thought to himself.

"Come on. Come on. Run you dumbshits, RUN." Ross said, looking through his binoculars.

The changeling lines didn't even waver and instead reformed by filling in the empty spots left by their previous owners. They had as much gusto as ever and this time had a renewed intensity. They were now on an over-zealous mission to avenge their fallen comrades.

"Aw shit here they come!" Yelled a soldier.

The changeling army was now drawing ever closer. Ross could hear Courtland's men firing their mortars and witnessed the deadly effect they had afterward.

"Hanging!"

"Fire!"

Thump

Boom!

It was rinse and repeat for the mortar squads.

Ross got on his radio and input the coordinates for a separate channel.

The sniper team in the bell-tower.

"Jacobs? You there?"

"Yes sir, I read ya'." Replied the spotter.

"See the bastards with the helmets? Those are changeling officers. Target them."

"Yes sir."

Moments later, Ross and Shining Armor heard a few pops from the tower and looked yonder.

The changeling officers were dropping like flies.

"How are you doing that?" Asked Shining Armor.

"Our weapons fire tiny, metal projectiles built to pierce flesh from a distance. Jacobs' M40 can hit a target up to 1000 yards away with deadly accuracy." Explained Ross.

"My M4A1 has less range, but I can still take down any of those changeling sum-bitches you throw my way."

"Wow." Said Shining Armor, now terribly afraid of the humans killing capabilities and once again thanking Celestia they were on their side. All his soldiers had were small, 3 foot long retractable lances built onto their breastplate.

To their surprise, a flash of green flew over their heads and exploded violently into the building behind them, leaving a distinct burn mark in the center of impact. Shouts could be heard from the foxholes as hundreds of these green projectiles whooshed overhead.

"Oh shit! No one said they could shoot back!" shouted Corporal Dixon.

"Must've missed the memo!" Yelled the pony next to him.

Ross grabbed his M4 and, alongside Shining Armor, hauled ass into the nearest foxhole.

"Keep your heads down!" Yelled Sgt. Avery.

Private Jameson was hit right between the eyes and fell back dead, his pony counterpart looking on in horror. Jameson's face had been brutally melted by the searing heat of the plasma burst from the changeling that fired it.

First casualty of the day. Ross thought with grim dissatisfaction.

Shining Armor looked over to his right and watched one of his guard ponies, a pegasus, get her head taken clean off by a plasma round. It proved too much to bear for the human ally in the foxhole with her as he began vomiting uncontrollably.

"Oh shit, we're gonna fuckin' die here!" Yelled an anonymous marine.

"Steady boys, hold your fire! Let 'em get close!" Ross shouted over the din of battle.

"Unicorns, prepare to fire on my command!" Shining Armor commanded.

The marines and ponies both tensed their weapons and prepared to return fire.

The changelings were about a hundred yards away now, the mortar teams having stopped firing because they were so close.

"Steady. STEADY. All right let 'em have it!" Yelled Ross.

"Unicorns, FIRE!" Ordered Shining Armor.

The outer defenses erupted in bursts of fire from the marines and unicorns. The combined firepower of the marine rifleman, SAW gunners, and unicorns felled hundreds of changelings in less than a few seconds.

Somewhere in the middle of the chaos, Corporal Higgins and Yellow Star were returning fire with ferocious intensity.

"Holy shit that's a lot of changelings!" Yelled Higgins as he emptied the clip in his M4A1.

"I know just keep shooting!" Shouted Yellow Star, firing burst after burst of his recently learned lethal spells.

Higgins looked to his side and smiled.

"Hey ha- hoof me those!"

"What these? Okay!"

Yellow Star levitated the grenades in Higgins' direction, who managed to catch the small box.

"You said you wanted to see what these did? Well here's your chance!" Shouted Higgins as he pulled the pin.

Higgins and a couple others began chucking grenades out of their foxholes, much to the surprise of the ponies.

"Why are they throwing rocks?!"

"They've gone mad!"

Yellow Star seemed especially concerned seeing as though he seemed to be missing the "highly explosive" part of the equation.

"Think they're duds?" He said worriedly

Higgins grinned cleverly.

"Just wait a little bit longer..." He said earnestly.

All at once, smaller explosions could be heard along the line as the grenades exploded with a short loud bang, followed by the screams of pain from the changelings that were maimed and not killed.

"Ha Ha! That's how you do it!" Said Lance Corporal Childers, pumping his fist in the air.

Ignoring the hailstorm of fire, the changelings continued their bum-rush toward the Equestrian defenses.

"These guys just don't know when to quit!" Yelled Yellow Star.

"Uh, they're gettin' way too close for comfort!" Shouted Cpl. Rivera in the next foxhole over.

Sgt. Campo stood up to yell at the corporal.

"Just keep shooting and they wont get any-"

Campo was cut down before he could finish his sentence.

"ARRGHH Shit! That hurts like a mother fucker!"

Campo lay wounded on the ground while the pony next to him tried to drag him back into his foxhole.

"AT-4's! Use your AT-4's!" Shouted Sgt. Cumberland.

"Right, the AT-4's. I almost forgot about those things." Said Higgins.

"What in Celestia's name is an AT-4?" Asked Yellow Star, felling a changeling with his spell burst.

"This!" Said Higgins as he lugged the monster over his shoulder.

Yellow Star and the rest of the guards witnessed at least 20 other humans arm themselves with an AT-4.

"Eat shit!" Yelled Pvt. McConnell as he pulled the trigger on his AT-4.

Once again the humans displayed their superior firepower, and once again the changelings continued on in furious determination.

"How have you guys not lost a war?" Asked Yellow Star.

"I'll catch you up later but for now- Oh crap they're getting closer!" Said Higgins.

The changeling infantry were now yards, feet, inches away from the defenses. They were now clearly discernible from their current locations. Some had horns, some had wings. Some were about the size of an earth pony and some were abnormally large. Larger than the tallest human. The marines and ponies braced themselves for hand-to-hoof-to-hoof combat.

"Oh shit!"

"Here they come!"

"For the ruling sisters!"

The changeling infantry pounded into the marines and ponies without remorse. Higgins' and Yellow Star's foxhole was instantly overwhelmed by changelings.

"Oh Fuck!"

"What the hay?"

The two were taken aback at the changelings that pounced on them and immediately began to fight back with whatever they had. Higgins drew his combat knife and began slashing away at changeling flesh while Yellow Star pierced everything he could with his battle-lance. But their fight was drowned out in the sea of death that raged around them.

Ross and Shining Armor were quite busy as well. Three changelings had stumbled across their trench and were already trying to hack and slash their enemies to death. Ross emptied his clip into two of them while Shining Armor bucked one in the chest and head until he heard the sick confirmation of broken bones and a fractured skull.

"Fuckers are everywhere!" Yelled Ross.

"We need to move to the outer defenses and help anyway we can!" Said Shining Armor.

"Sounds like a plan."

The two set off toward the sounds of chaos, unsure of what they were about to walk into.

The two rounded the corner of a small fruit stand and immediately realized the true scope of the battle around them. The changelings had broken through their lines and were locked in brutal, gory close combat with their own soldiers. The first thing Ross could see was Sgt. Avery struggling on his back, his face about to be crushed by a pair of changeling hooves.

"Oh shit, Richard!" Yelled Ross, bringing his M4 up to his shoulder and pulling the trigger.

'Click'

The chamber was empty. He never bothered to reload after killing those two back there. Stupid, stupid. He was too afraid to look up from the his gun, unsure whether his friend would still be alive.

He glanced up.

Avery was on his feet and sticking another changeling with his knife. Ross was astonished.

But I was sure that- Ross looked over and noticed a panting Shining Armor, horn pointed toward the now dead changeling.

"He was going to kill your friend, so I took the shot." He said, not taking his eyes off his kill.

"Thanks." Said Ross.

On that note, the two charged into the fight armed with courage, weapons, and the most fearsome battle-crys ever uttered.

_______________________________________________________

Equestria, Ponyville 12:38 PM

"Retreat!"

Whatever was left of the changeling captains ordered a full retreat. The ponies and the marines had done it. They were able to beat back an opposing force two times their size.

"Yeah that's right! Run you little punks!" Yelled Pvt. Samson.

"And don't come back!" Said the guard pony next to him.

The two soldiers slouched back into their foxholes ignoring the dead changeling next to them, his brain matter seeping out of the gaping hole in it's head.

"Shit, that was one hell of a fight huh?" Said Ross to no one in particular.

"Yeah." Said Shining Armor, staring at the scene in front of him.

It was definitely a sight to see. Dead bodies littered the ground around him and the surrounding area. Changeling, pony, and human alike all lay dead on the blood-soaked battlefield. The one he knew as White Frost lay dead in his trench, covered in the gore of the changeling he killed before his stomach was in turn pierced with a lance.

"We should probably get over there and assess the damage. One thing's for sure, I'm gonna have a lot of letters to write home." Ross said glumly as stepped out of the bloody foxhole.

Shining Armor followed suit and immediately regretted doing so. He could easily tell anypony that one of the scariest parts of the battle is the aftermath. And the sounds that accompanied it.

"I need a corpsman over here!"

"We need to amputate this wing or he isn't gonna make it."

"Ian? Anyone seen Ian?"

"Ah! My fuckin' arm!"

The moans of the wounded were everywhere.

But what struck Shining Armor as worth checking out was the faint sobbing he could hear in the distance. Stepping over the bodies and debris, Shining Armor came upon a ghastly sight.

The source of the crying was Pvt. Yellow Star.

He was covered in blood and his combat lance was splintered, the pointed edge embedded in a changeling's side. In the small foxhole lay five dead changelings, Yellow Star, and the limp body of a marine. The human lay on his back, his stomach split open revealing the sickening sight of his innards. His pale face bore a look of pain and sadness. His left hand clutching a bloody picture that of which Shining Armor could barely make out.

"Soldier? Yellow Star? It's over. We won." Coaxed Shining Armor.

Inching closer, the pony captain could hear a low mumbling coming from the traumatized pony.

"I didn't see it... he didn't see it coming... he couldn't have.. how could he have possibly known?" He rambled, on the verge of losing it again.

"It's okay son. It's over."

Shining Armor touched his hoof on the sobbing ponies shoulder.

"I mean, he was alive one moment and then... and then.."

Yellow Star began crying again.

"Easy son, easy. You can rest now." Said Shining Armor.

Captain Ross approached the two, attracted by the ponies sobbing as well.

"You guys alright- Oh shit." Ross said, covering his face with a hand.

"Damn it Higgins you poor son-of-a-bitch." He cursed, bending down and breaking the tags off the dead marine's neck.

"That kid gonna be okay?" Ross asked, gesturing to the crying pony.

"I don't think so."

Ross sighed.

"Take him over to the aid station we have set up in town. I'll handle things here."

Shining Armor trotted out of the foxhole with the soldier, leaving Ross behind with the dead marine.

Sgt. Avery walked by and noticed his weary friend. He jumped into the foxhole, inquiring who it was that had been killed.

"Who's that?"

"It's Higgins." Said Ross in a melancholy voice.

"Shit man. His fuckin' daughter just turned eight last week."

"I know. The pony in here with him looked pretty shaken up about it. I don't blame him." Said Ross.

"He just got a real shitty deal y'know? Just a shitty deal." Said Avery, stepping out of the foxhole and wandering off somewhere else.

Ross was about to do the same when he noticed something in Higgins' hand. Next to his bloodied combat knife, Ross pried open the corporal's dead hand and and wiped off it's contents.

His family photo.

If they could see him now they wouldn't be so happy. Ross thought sadly.

Ross thought about the letter he was going to have to write as he stepped out of the makeshift cover, the bloody picture stuffed in his pocket.

______________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 12:41 PM

The aid station that was set up in Ponyville was actually the abandoned hospital. Some of the loyal orderlies, like one nurse Redheart, opted to stay and treat the wounded for the battle to come. She had her hoofs full with the dead and dying and couldn't keep up with the amount of wounded to tend to.

"Get me more gauze!" She yelled, trying to stop the bleeding for one of the dying marines.

"Oh- shit. I, I ain't gonna.. die.. am I doc?" Asked the soldier between coughs and sputters.

"No. No your not." She tried to say, his own blood showering her body.

"Where's that gauze?" She yelled.

But when she looked down the soldier was already dead.

"Celestia Damn it!" She screamed angrily, pounding her hoof into the table.

Nurse Redheart covered up the soldier and moved onto a pony who's leg had been severed and was losing blood fast, but when she got there, he was already dead too.

__________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 12:42 PM

Ross stepped into town, wishing he could avoid the horrible sight of the aid station but couldn't. The command post was set up right next to it.

"Damn it. What in gods name was I thinking?" He said out loud.

He walked by, noticing a covered soldier and a few marines gathered around. Curious, Ross went over to take a peek.

"Who's that?" He asked.

"It's lieutenant Mildred sir." Second Lt. Harding deadpanned.

"Aw, shit. Congratulations first Lt. Harding. I've put you in for a field promotion. Carry on." Ross walked away with one more heavy thought in his mind.

One more letter to write home.

__________________________________________________________

Chapter 5

Only the dead have seen the end of the war.

-George Santayana

Canterlot Castle 1:04 PM

General Taylor stood at a table eyeing battle maps and strategic plans accompanied by both princesses and major Ingram. They'd been perceiving the best battle plan for the arrival of the humans since Taylor and Ingram had come here.

"I think if I divert the U.S. forces to Baltimare here, they should be able to make the rendezvous here in a couple of days." Said Taylor, pointing to various positions on a map.

"They'll need the support of the other nations. If I remember correctly, Baltimare is currently occupied by changeling forces." Noted Ingram.

Celestia took this small gap of silence to provide input.

"I concur commander. That would be a brash move on your part Taylor. The changeling armies stationed there are many. It would be foolish to act as such. We should wait for the others to arrive. Then we'll discuss-"

Celestia was interrupted by the crackle of the large field radio next to Taylor. Raising a finger to halt the conversation, Taylor picked up the receiver and answered.

"Ross? I thought I was gonna get that sitrep at 5:00?" He said.

Ross' voice was inaudible to the rest as they looked on in interest.

"WHAT?"

"How many- how many attacked?"

"I see. Casualty report?" He asked in a depressed voice.

Upon hearing this, Twilight, who was on the other side of the room viewing documents and battle plans raced over to the table to find out what happened to her brother's unit. Twilight was a smart pony. She knew that the human's communication device could only speak through her brother's army and the only other radio located here. That's why every time she saw Taylor going for the radio she stood nearby, listening in for any news on that days events.

"That's, that's terrible news. I'll inform the others immediately. Taylor out."

Hanging up the radio receiver, Taylor turned toward them with a grim look.

"Ponyville was attacked today at noon. The defenses held, but there were quite a few casualties."

The gasps that followed ushered in a deafening period of silence. Taylor resumed shortly afterword.

"They're recovering from the battle and have sent out scouts to locate the changeling camp nearby."

Twilight couldn't stay quiet for much longer. This was her brother he was talking about.

"My brother! What about him? Is he okay?" She screamed frantically.

"Relax kid, he's alright. They just got roughed up a bit, that's all." He said.

They didn't know the half of it.

__________________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 3:28 PM

Ross and Shining Armor had just finished debriefing the scouts after their trip into the Everfree forest. They'd come back with remarkable news.

"So your tellin' me, that you two not only located the changeling camp, but also have confirmed sightings of their queen?" Asked Ross.

The human and the pony nodded vigorously. There was a pause, then Shining Armor spoke up.

"Interesting. Yeah, it could work."

"What could work?" Asked Ross.

"I know this sounds crazy, but I advise getting together all able-bodied soldiers, marching them into the forest under cover of darkness tonight, and assaulting their camp." Said Shining Armor.

Ross was quick to reply.

"No, I get where your goin' with this. We assemble everyone that isn't wounded and head out tonight and strike their camp hard and fast. It's ingenious! They wont even see it coming." Said Ross with a proud grin.

"Good. I'll organize my troops while you do the same with yours. We'll meet back here for briefing at 8:00, just after it gets dark."

"Great, lets hop to it." Said Ross.

The two left the small shop they were using as a command post and began thinking of ways to raise the morale of their already battered soldiers.

Captain Ross stood near the bulk of where his men had gathered after the battle. Most had just plopped down where they were and sat there. Others, like the ones he was about to address, regrouped in the middle of town to get their wounds dressed and to find friends they couldn't locate after the fight.

"Alright, everyone gather 'round!" Ordered Ross.

In compliance, the tired, beaten marines formed a sloppy circle around their captain.

"The scouts we sent out a few hours ago indicate a large changeling camp south east from the edge of town. Tonight, while they're recuperating from today's attack, we'll charge into the camp and kill as many of 'em as we can in hopes of routing the sons-of-bitches."

Ross' plan was met with a volley of groans and disagreements.

"Are you kiddin' me?"

"We just fought our asses off and now this?"

"Man, this some 'ol bullshit."

"Look, I know. But we cant be sure they wont come at us again tomorrow. Who knows, they might even have a larger force. You all know we cant withstand an attack like that again in our current condition!" Argued Ross.

Sergeant Avery stood up and faced the troops.

"Skipper's right. If we can just give it our all one more time, I doubt we'll have to do any real fighting any time soon."

He too was met with disapproval.

"Your up for this too sarge?"

"Jeez now I know they're trying to kill me."

Ross could easily see his troops slipping through his fingers.

"I know this is a lot to ask of you right now, but we also have confirmations that the queen is there too. Maybe, just maybe, in the chaos we can kill the bitch and end this war tonight."

All was quiet for a moment while the marines contemplated their commanders proposition.

The troops sighed and grumbled their approval.

"Whatever you say cap."

"Alright I guess."

"Fine. As long as I get dibs on killin' the queen."

Ross nodded and smiled at Avery, reminding himself to thank his friend later for the assistance.

"Great. We're moving out at 2000 hours. Meet at the CP for briefing. Hoorah?"

"Hoorah!"

The marines replied less affectionately this time, fearing the battle to come.

_____________________________________________________________

Everfree Forest 3:30 PM

The bustling changeling camp was in chaos after the retreat from the field that day. The 2nd army was in shambles and they hadn't even bothered to retrieve the dead and wounded from the battle. The changelings were too busy running head over hooves into the forest. Meanwhile in Chrysalis' tent, three terrified changeling generals sat, poised to meet their queen bearing the horrible news that would surely displease her.

"You three, disappoint me." She said, pausing in the middle of her sentence to provide emphasis.

"I- We humbly apologize for the error we've made your highness. It, it wont happen again." Said of the generals.

Chrysalis ceased her pacing and stared malevolently at the speaker.

"No. No it wont."

In a sudden green flash, the apologetic changeling general was no more. A sifting pile of ash was all that remained in his place.

"Does anyone else have anything to say?" She asked.

The generals shook their heads earnestly.

"Good. I'm giving you two idiots another chance to take command of our armed forces. Most likely the Equestrians will counterattack sometime soon and I don't wish to be here when they do. Therefore, I'm moving deep into changeling territory to direct the rest of our armies elsewhere while you two finish here." She said as she began to leave.

Chrysalis did a double-take and spoke coldly before she departed.

"Don't fail me again."

_________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 8:01 PM

Shining Armor and captain Ross had gathered whatever was left of their fighting force and began briefing them on the mission ahead. Though tired and reluctant, both armies were ready to finish the job.

"We move out soon. Pack lightly. Nothing that makes noise." Informed Ross.

"I'll need a few Pegasus guards to take to the skies and down any stragglers that try to fly off. Any volunteers?" Asked Shining Armor.

Slowly, hooves were raised in the air followed by several verbal confirmations.

"I'll do it."

"Ah, what the hay. I'll go."

"I'm in."

Shining Armor grinned proudly. His troops were ready to end it while Ross' men weren't as enthusiastic.

Then again, who gets enthusiastic about war? Shining Armor thought to himself.

"Alright. That's it then. We're ready." Said Shining Armor.

"Lets move out people!" Ross ordered.

The marines and ponies grumbled silently to themselves in despair, unaware of whether they were coming back or not.

____________________________________________________________

Canterlot Castle 8:05 PM

Applejack wandered the courtyard of the castle's training yard, passing by the new recruits. One of the younger soldiers, a Pegasus, was swaying his lance back and forth, obviously having trouble with it.

"How're you gonna stop a changeling swingin' yer lance 'round like that?" She asked, walking over to help the young guard pony.

"Oh! Sorry Lt. Applejack! I'm actually just getting used to it. I'm practicing to get better seeing as though they're gonna ship me off tomorrow as a replacement for captain Shining Armor! It's a real honor y' know? Did you hear about the skirmish they got in with the changelings? I heard those humans were there but hardly did anything." He said, lazily trying to stab the target dummy.

"Ah guess. Ah haven't even seen a human yet other than the general and that Ingram." Applejack said.

"Me neither, but sergeant Ironhoof says humans are stuck up hooligans that don't know the first thing about fighting. Between you and me, I believe every word of it. Judging from the looks of those two humans in there, they don't look so tough either." He explained.

The guard pony in training lifted his lance again and speared the hoof of the dummy.

"Here, let me help ya there." Applejack said.

She straightened out his form and bent him into a proper fighting position.

"Now try."

The pony lunged forward and pierced the dummy right through the head and upon withdrawing his lance, removed the head in one swift tug.

"Wow! Thanks lieutenant!" He said.

"Heh, just call me Applejack."

"Yes ma'am."

"Whats yer name kid?" Applejack inquired.

"Sunny Breeze ma'am!"

"Well carry on then Sunny Breeze."

"Yes ma- Oh jeez. Watch out, captain's coming!"

The soldier tensed into attention, looking forward with his chin up.

Applejack turned around to get a look at this "captain" and recognized a distinct characteristic immediately.

The rainbow mane.

"Rainbow?"

"Applejack?"

Rainbow Dash stood, fully armed and armored in complete battle dress.

"What in tarnation are ya doin' in that armor Rainbow Dash?" The cow-pony asked.

"That's captain Rainbow Dash to you lieutenant!" She said with a smirk.

"Huh?"

"Didn't you hear? Princess Luna assigned me my own platoon of Pegasi to command!" She said, slightly hovering off the ground and doing a joyous back-flip.

"Gee Rainbow, are ya sure yer ready fer such a big responsibility?"

"Ha, what do you mean? I'm beaming with responsibility!" She said with that same cocky smirk of her's.

"Ah, I see you've met Pvt. Sunny Breeze. Private, show our friend here your changeling stopping capabilities!"

"Yes ma'am!"

Sunny Breeze reared back and stuck the headless dummy with his lance in the heart.

A direct hit.

"See? I'm training 'em just fine!" Said Rainbow Dash.

"Actually ma'am, it was Lt. Applejack that-"

"That's great kid. Anyway, I've got some important buisness to take care of so, bye!" She said taking off, leaving only a rainbow trail.

"Sorry about the captain lieutenant. She can be a bit brash at times." Said Sunny Breeze.

"Nah, that's alright. One day her pride is gonna creep up and bite her on the flank. I'll just be on mah way now. You keep practicin' ya hear?"

"Yes ma'am!" Replied Sunny Breeze.

As Sunny Breeze continued to strike the dummy, further maiming it after her teaching, Applejack walked off into a nearby corridor and began to think.

She thought about the farm.

She thought about her family.

She thought about her friends.

She thought about her chance of survival in this Celestia-damned war.

___________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria near the Everfree forest 11:30 PM

Captain Ross and Shining Armor led their forces along a small gully leading into the forest, with the two scouts up front.

"Harrington, your sure it's this way?" Ross whispered.

"Positive." He replied.

The jet-black forest gave the humans and ponies no advantage as they noisily brushed past the flora that surrounded them. The only fail-safe to make sure they weren't going in circles were the Pegasi flying above.

"Soft Serve, you see anything?" Shining Armor asked the hovering Pegasus.

"Not yet sir- wait. Yeah, that's definitely a changeling camp up ahead. See the campfires?" She asked in a hushed voice.

"Uh-huh. Ross, you ready?" Asked Shining Armor.

"Yeah. Harding, take the left."

"Aye skip."

"Swift Wind, I need you to lead some troops around the right." Ordered Ross.

Swift Wind looked up, surprised to see the human directly addressing her.

"I, uh.. yes sir." She reluctantly complied, not used to having Ross give her an order.

The small army circled the front of the camp and prepared to sneak in, ready to kill as many as they could.

"Alright, lets roll." Said Ross.

The troops slipped in quietly, checking the tents and trenches but something was wrong. Terribly wrong.

There was no one here.

"What? Why would they just up and leave?" Asked Cpl. Rivera.

"Yeah, this just doesn't make any-"

Pvt. Fields was hit in the back with a plasma burst and promptly fell to the ground.

"Attack!" Yelled a hidden changeling officer.

The changelings were expecting a counterattack. They had known all along.

"What the fuck?"

"Oh shit!"

The marines and ponies were startled at the sight of the remaining changelings charging out from the treeline.

"Open fire!" Yelled Ross.

The following battle that ensued couldn't even be called a proper battle. It was a blind scuffle in the dark. Changeling, pony, and human alike stumbled around in the night, the gruesome close combat illuminated by the small campfires.

"They're everywhere!" screamed a frantic pony.

"Just keep fighting!" Shouted Shining Armor.

Ross and Avery were back to back, Ross armed with his combat knife and Avery swinging the butt of his gun at the moving entities in front of him.

"Oh shit one of them's got my leg!" Avery tripped on the changeling gnawing at his ankle and fell to the ground.

Ross scrambled over and stabbed the changeling repeatedly until it's grip had loosened on his friend.

"Jesus Christ that was close!" Yelled Avery.

"Yea-"

Ross was tackled by two more changelings and began wildly swinging his knife.

"Anytime you want to pitch in Rich would be great!" Yelled Ross.

"Kinda busy here!"

Avery was on the ground again, this time on his stomach, trying desperately to reach the M9 in his holster to kill the changeling on him.

In an instant, the pressure on Ross was lifted and he could hear numerous bones breaking and heads splitting. Looking up, he expected to see Avery or Shining Armor but instead caught the cold, hard look on Pvt. Yellow Star's faintly illuminated visage. Ross' face was shoved into the ground as an immense force impacted the back of his head.

Then it all went black.

_____________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 8:46 AM

Ross awoke the next day with a terrible headache.

Uh, I hope I haven't been hitting the sauce again. He thought glumly to himself.

Ross came to inside the Ponyville hospital being treated by a mare with crimson fur. She seemed to notice him sit up as she had prepared a sedative if need be. She looked tired, obviously she hadn't gotten any sleep lately.

Probably been treating the wounded all night. Oh shit, the attack!

Ross sat up but was quickly pushed down by her hooves and a pair of... hands?

Sergeant Avery.

"Holy shit, Richard! What happened last night? Did we chase the bastards off?" He asked frantically.

"Heh, calm down tiger. Yeah we sent 'em runnin'. Boy they might not be able to fight well but they sure can run. We tried to pursue but they hauled ass outta there before we could gather up our weapons." He explained.

The nurse left, leaving Avery and Ross alone in a room full of dying soldiers.

"Good. Damn, my head hurts." Ross said, touching the area where it pained the most.

"Ow, fuck!" He cursed.

"Easy champ. You took quite a hit back there. Good thing that Yellow Star kid was there to help."

"Who?"

"The pony that saved your hide last night. While I was gettin' my ass handed to me on the ground that kid came over and kicked the shit out o' the changelings that had gotten a hold of you." Avery said.

"Jeez, remind me to put that kid in for a medal! So, who'd we lose last night?" Ross asked, leaning his head back.

The nurse had returned with gauze pads seeing as though the wound on Ross' head had reopened.

"Well, we lost a couple of guys, not as much as yesterday but still quite a few. Uh, let me think. There's Gutierrez, Fields, Carter, oh and Campo died a few hours ago from his wounds. Johnson and Fitzgerald bit it too. That's about it. We didn't really lose that much. The dark helped us more than it helped them." Avery explained.

The nurse spoke up, interrupting the short reunion.

"Alright, that should be enough bandages. Your free to go, just don't put any pressure on that wound or it'll open up again." She explained.

"Thank you Miss..." Ross stopped, realizing her didn't even know her name.

"Redheart." She said, gathering up her supplies so generously provided by the humans.

"Oh, thanks Ms. Redheart. I uh, like your red fur." Ross said, trying to make up for not knowing her name.

"Your quite welcome, and my fur is actually white." She said as she left to tend to more wounded soldiers.

Ross hadn't realized that her coloring was the result of crusted blood that had completely dyed her fur red.

______________________________________________________________

Canterlot Castle 11:32 AM

Twilight, Rarity, and Applejack sat in the officers common room where they often discussed the happenings of the day. They were alone other than a few high-ranking unicorns chatting it up on the other side of the room. Rainbow Dash was outside in the training yard working her troops while Pinkie Pie was busy finishing off the remaining desserts in the ballroom. They hadn't seen Fluttershy all day.

"I think I've done an exceptional job designing the new uniforms for the guard ponies which is more than I can say about this ugly rag I'm wearing right now." Said Rarity.

Rarity had been put in charge of a textiles division sewing uniforms and blankets for the troops. She was especially happy knowing she could do her part performing what she loved best.

"That's great Rarity. I'm glad your conforming so easily to your new role here." Exclaimed Twilight.

"So Applejack, regale us on the duty the princesses have bestowed upon you." Said Rarity.

"Huh? Sorry Rarity but I've jus' been preoccupied lately. It just ain't right how comfortable Rainbow is with this whole division commander thing. Ah don't think she understands what she's gettin' herself into!" Said Applejack.

"Relax darling, she probably isn't even going to fight that much anyway. She'll just tag along with Shining Armor and those humans for a while. " Said Rarity, whipping a portion of her mane out of her face.

"Ah don't know Rarity. It just don't seem right. Look at her! She's out there right now-"

Applejack was interrupted by the sudden presence of the princess of the night.

"Applejack, might we have a word?" She asked.

"Uh, sure yer majesty." She complied, walking out into the hallway.

They met just outside the door and waiting there for them was major Ingram.

"Ah, just the pony I've been wanting to see." Said the human.

"What's this all about?" The cowpony asked.

The major now spoke in a stern voice.

"Listen dear, I understand you are fine companion among your group and retain excellent leadership capabilities. The princesses and I have dubbed you fit and able to lead your own division of ponies into battle. We want to send you off to the front-lines today and reinforce one of our positions outside Baltimare. "

"Wha-, Ah cant do that! I'm just a simple apple farmer." She said in disbelief.

"But that's just it! Your anything but simple! We asked your friend Rainbow Dash for input and she said you'd make an excellent combat leader. She's told me of your many physical feats like your innate kicking strength! And she's also told us of the countless times you've single hand- hoofedly led stampedes of cattle away from your hometown." Ingram Spoke in a giddy voice.

"Ponyfeathers. Ah just told ya'. Ah ain't no combat leader!" She pleaded.

The major adopted a serious expression and an even more serious tone.

"Listen dear, we need leaders. Commanders that wont falter in the heat of combat. Soldiers that wont retreat when faced with adversity. In case you didn't know, we've just lost Appleloosa to an inferior changeling force because the commander stationed there couldn't keep his troops together. We need soldiers like you."

Appleloosa? Oh Celestia, Breaburn! She frantically thought to herself.

More and more of Applejack's family was being thrust into this ever growing conflict. She couldn't just let this slide. But then again, it would mean involving herself in a war in which she may not survive. She needed to be smart here.

"Ah'll have to think 'bout this one maj-"

Applejack was cut off by a frantic yell down the hallway.

"Sir, the refugee camp a few miles outside of checkpoint B was attacked!"

Applejack gasped. Ingram had already started following the princess down the hall.

That's the camp where the Ponyville refugees are kept!

Applejack came to a dreadful understanding. Her family was under attack, or worse.

Dead.

"Major." applejack deadpanned.

Ingram stopped in his tracks, looking back at the pony.

"Yes?"

"Ah've considered yer offer. And I accept." She said, lowering her head.

"Excellent, but right now I need to coordinate the troops in the area for a counterattack. Go find your friend Rainbow Dash. She'll fill you in on the details captain Applejack." The major said, running after the messenger.

Applejack just stood there, mouth agape.

"Applejack dear, are you okay? We heard shouting." She heard Rarity call from inside the common room.

"Applejack?" Called Twilight.

"Ah, ah've gotta go!" She replied, galloping down the corridor and into the training courtyard to confront her friend.

"C'mon Private move your flank! Only the best get to be under my command!" Rainbow Dash shouted toward a weary Pegasus.

Out of the the corner of her eye, Rainbow Dash spotted her friend trot out into the courtyard.

"You guys, just uh.. do what you want. I'll be right back!" Said Rainbow.

The confused soldiers stared blankly at her until one spoke up.

"You mean, at ease?" He asked.

"Yeah, that. Do that!" She said, flying off to meet her friend.

"Hey Applejack! Did you take up that offer on-"

Rainbow Dash was interrupted by her friend's hoof being jabbed at her chest.

"Rainbow! What were you thinking?" Applejack yelled.

The guards stared at the two, worried that their captain was going to get a black eye from Lt. Applejack.

"I-"

"No, just don't! I accepted the offer anyway." Applejack said, looking down at her hooves.

"Well, that's awesome!" Said the now jubilant Rainbow Dash.

"No! Not awesome! Ah don't think you really understand what yer gettin' into here!" Yelled Applejack.

"Applejack, we've been over this before, I-"

"Rainbow, we are at war!"

"Well, I know that." She said sheepishly, too embarrassed to admit anything in front of her soldiers.

"No you don't! Tell me Rainbow, how many ponies have you killed lately?" She questioned.

"Applejack this is different, it's changelings we're talking about!" She argued back.

"It don't matter! Don't you get it? We are gonna be asked to kill Rainbow! Kill!" Applejack shouted, angered at her friend's casual approach at the matter.

"Well maybe-"

"Just, don't." Applejack trailed off as she walked back inside, not even bothering to find out the location of her unit.

___________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 12:01 PM

Captain Ross and Shining Armor had gathered up the remaining troops for a meeting to discuss the courses of action to be taken.

"Alright, and there's another thing we needed to talk about. In a few hours, we'll be relieved by friendly forces and we'll replenish supplies."

Ross' diction was met with sighs of relief.

"That's the good news. The bad news, is that as soon as we're back to full fighting force, we have orders to move out and assist friendly forces in assaulting the changeling positions located near the city of Baltimare." He said.

The marines were already well aware of the similarities the cities in Equestria had to their own. They had no room for laughs about these odd coincidences anymore though.

The marines and ponies groaned in response, realizing that there was nothing they could do to delay the impending battles.

And the casualties that came with them.

"Look, I know we're all tired, but we've got a job to do!" Yelled Shining Armor.

"He's right! Look how far we've gotten. We cant give up now!" Shouted Ross.

The soldiers didn't even seem phased by their leader's meager attempts at boosting morale.

Shining Armor sighed.

"To hay with it, we gotta face it. They're just tired of it. All of this." He whispered into Ross' ear.

"I can see that, but we have a war to fight. Fatigue in itself is a killer." He whispered back.

"Yeah, I can see that." Shining Armor replied, gazing at the battered soldiers.

Both marine and pony had seen enough fighting to last them a lifetime already. Shining Armor could see it in their eyes. The rowdy troops he had known the other day were gone, the stern faces of warriors taking their place. Faces that had seen war and were no strangers to killing. The replacements he and Ross were getting were all raw recruits. "Greenhorns" Ross had called them.

"Another thing we need to pick up on. I know you all want to contact relatives and let them know your alright." Ross said.

The troops nodded in agreement.

"Well, when our forces set up a proper command post near the portal to this world, we'll be able to send letters through a postal service set up for your convenience. Yep, that's right. No more skyping or any form of video-chat. We do it the old fashioned way."

The marines were obviously upset, but the ponies couldn't figure out why.

"Captain, you take over from here." Said Ross.

"Alright, ponies listen up. Forget what he just said. It doesn't apply to you. We'll send letters like we've always done. That's about it. When the replacements get here, we'll begin our march toward Baltimare. Dismissed." Said Shining Armor.

The weary troops rose from their spots and drearily walked back to their previous positions. Ross hadn't really gotten a good chance to observe his men after the night incursion. Closely inspecting them from a distance, Ross had realized the toll this war had already taken on his men, and what it was about to take from them. Most of his soldiers were wounded, either from the battle yesterday during daylight, or the fight that took place that evening. Some bore bandages that covered their foreheads, much like his, and some limped on broken legs. Others had slings on their arms and some were covered in bloody rags wrapped around wounds and other medicinal components. He was certain of one thing.

No one walked away from the battles unscathed.

_________________________________________________________

Canterlot outskirts 12:45 PM

The other regiments had gone their separate ways, each unit needed at a different location. Rainbow Dash and her brigade of Pegasi had begun their flight toward the town of Ponyville thirty minutes ago. With the ability of flight, it would only take half the time to get there. With good measure too.

The Pegasi she now commanded were the much needed reinforcements of Twilight's brother and the human captain.

"So captain, I know we're fighting alongside Shining Armor's guards and I'm honored for that, but what of the humans?" Rainbow's lieutenant, Silver Sparks, asked.

"Y'know, now that you think about it, I've never met a human soldier before." She commented.

"What about the two in the castle?"

"Well yeah, there's those two. But I'm talking about the real deal." Said Rainbow Dash.

"I heard there were humans at the skirmish in Ponyville." He said.

"Yeah me too. Apparently they didn't really do anything helpful. Or so I've heard." Said Rainbow Dash.

"I don't believe that. I think in a battle like that, everyone would have to do their part." Said the lieutenant.

"Meh, whatever. I do know one thing's for sure. Ponies are definitely better fighters than humans." Rainbow Dash said with that familiar brash grin.

The rest of the journey was taken in silence, all of the new recruits not knowing what to expect once they reached Ponyville.

Or what the journey ahead of them would yield once they set out to Baltimare.

_____________________________________________________________

Ponyville, Equestria 7:34 PM

By now, it had already begun to get dark, and the runners they had sent to guide the arriving human reinforcements to the town hadn't returned yet. Ross and Shining Armor had been waiting all day at the entrance of the village for the arrival of the new soldiers bearing food and ammo. They had also kept an eye out for the approaching ponies. According to General Taylor, it would take half a day for the ponies to reach them, seeing as though their departure destination was so far away.

"Shit, man. My ass is getting numb sitting like this all day." Ross said.

By now, the veteran ponies had learned to tolerate the humans profanity and even begun to excercise their own ways of verbal vulgarity.

"Yeah, my buckin' back is killing me." Added Shining Armor.

"When do you think they'll be here. The ponies, I mean." Asked Ross.

"Well, it's a days march from here to Canterlot so I wouldn't think very long now seeing as though you can half that time by flying." Said Shining Armor.

Over the horizon, the two could see round caps coming over the hill and down the numerous paths. The approaching troops numbered in the thousands and the ground beneath them shook from the marching formations.

"Holy shit, it's the reinforcements!" Shouted Ross in astonishment.

"I'll get the troops ready." Said Shining Armor, leaving to rally his and Ross' men.

Ross ran out to meet the rest of the marine divisions and locate the replacements for his. Ross passed by hundreds of soldiers in the fields beyond the town, all staring at him with odd looks. They had a good reason too.

Ross hadn't bothered to change his clothes or wash himself since the siege of Ponyville two days ago. He looked like he'd just fought his way out of a den full of wild tigers armed with AK-47's and Bowie knives.

"U.S. forces? U.S. forces?" Ross asked every soldier he passed by.

It was hopeless though. He wasn't going to find American troops in the labyrinth of humans that had formed around him, all trying to find their place in the battered fields that surrounded Ponyville.

Meanwhile, Shining Armor had gone into town to rouse the remaining troops and prepare them for the long march ahead. After awakening his lieutenant, the two proceeded in doing the same to every soldier they came across, informing them that reinforcements had arrived.

"Holy crap, you serious?"

"Reinforcements? Supplies? Alright!"

"Already? I was just gettin' used to this place."

After reorganizing the troops in town, Shining Armor put them in marching formation.

"C'mon everybody, move it! We need to be up and ready to go once the replacements arrive!" He yelled.

As if on cue, the pony reinforcements marched into town through the rear, looking upon the destructive aftermath of the previous day's battle.

Most were silent, gazing at the ruined town before them save one energetic rainbow pony.

"What the hay happened to this place? Hey! Shining Armor! Yeah you! Over here!" Rainbow yelled.

Shining Armor galloped over to Rainbow's unit, permitting no further entrance into town.

"Captain Dash, reporting for duty!" She said.

"Hey Rainbow Dash! How's my sister?" He asked rather casually.

"Oh, she's great. Can you believe they gave me my own unit to command?"

"They did? I thought you were just joking about the whole "captain" thing." He said.

"No really, I am! Check out this wicked armor! No way I'm letting this get dirty! Whoa, what happened to yours?" She asked, leaning forward to observe the heavy scuffs and slashes that adorned his breastplate.

"This war is what happened." He said softly with a more serious tone.

"C'mon, follow me into town. I'll need you to form up next to those troops over there. My lieutenant, Swift Wind will help you if you get lost. I've gotta go find someone so I'll be right back!" Shining Armor called back as he galloped toward the other end of town.

"Got it. Form up with the other troops. Simple enough. Nothing "the dash" cant handle." She said theatrically as she led her troops past the humans into formation with the other ponies.

The humans!

Rainbow Dash was so caught up with following orders that she hadn't had a chance to see real human soldiers! Rainbow looked to the left side of the formation in order to get a good view.

She started talking giddily to herself as her head began panning to the left.

"I bet they have cool battle armor and weapons that totally kick flank and-"

She cut herself off, finally getting a view of the humans that she so desperately needed a glance at. What she saw was a completely different image than the description her mind gave her. She imagined buff, two legged beasts donning armor built for gods.

Instead, she eyed the battered remains of the 1st marine division.

They looked tired and fed-up. They hardly acknowledged her as she scanned the ranks, looking for something remotely "cool" about them. All she saw were depressed creatures that just wanted to go home. Some wore terrible scars that decorated their faces and limbs in a twisted fashion. Many had bandages that covered entire portions of their face and body. Some of the humans sitting on the sidelines were missing limbs that she could see weren't missing on the others. Looking over to the right, the guard ponies were much the same. They looked nothing like the prideful, shiny guards that milled around the Castle in Canterlot. These guards lacked luster, and didn't wear the familiar stare that most of the others had in the rich city. In short, the evidence of war was written all over these soldiers, and they didn't mind showing it.

Shining Armor was busy going from human to human, trying to locate Ross in the sea of different nations. What confused him even more were the replies he received when he questioned them.

"Ross?"

" Что это, черт возьми?"

"Ross, that you?"

"Mon dieu! Il parle!"

"Ross, are you there?"

"Das Pferd nur mit mir gesprochen!"

No matter how he asked, he never got the right answer.

"Shining Armor! Over here!"

Suddenly, he could hear a voice calling out to him.

In Equestrian too! He thought excitedly.

Looking to the speaker, he saw Ross waving him over near a large group of soldiers in similar battle gear.

"Ross, thank Celestia I found you. Do you know how many-"

Shining Armor was cut off by the loud, obnoxious realizations coming from the other marine divisions.

"Holy shit, look at that thing! It talks!"

"Danny, check this out!"

"Damn. The horses back at home on my ranch never spoke."

An older marine walked up and saluted them both. Shining Armor was relieved to see that even in worlds apart, rank meant something.

"I don't suppose your captain Shining Armor?" He asked.

"Yeah, that's right."

The older marine stuck his hand out and replied.

"Good. Colonel James Seaton. Pleased to meet you captain."

Shining Armor went wide-eyed. A colonel? Shining Armor jumped to attention.

Seaton started laughing.

"At ease son, no need for that formal bullshit." He said with a soft grin.

"Ross, lead your replacements into town. The rest of the marine divisions are gonna hold the village. We'll follow you in." Seaton said, gesturing to himself and the pony captain.

A somewhat large group of marines formed in front of Ross.

Yep. These are definitely recruits. He thought to himself.

"Let's move out!" Ross ordered.

Upon arriving in town, the recruits set their sights on the weary marines in front of them.

"Holy crap, what happened to you guys?"

"Jesus, you guys look like shit."

"What the hell happened here?"

The tired marines just stared at their replacements, each one resembling a fallen buddy.

"Whoa, check out the ponies." One of the replacements said in a hushed voice.

The guard ponies did the same as the veterans next to them. They just stared. One pony in particular looked at them in disgust. They were just going to die like his friend did when the changelings first attacked. One of the recruits, a young marine, lined up in place beside Yellow Star.

That was Higgins' spot. He thought to himself.

"Hey kid, move. Spot's taken." Corporal Yellow Star spoke coldly.

He'd been promoted since the assault on the changeling camp and was already living up to the promotion.

"Sorry, but this is my spot. Cap says so." Said the marine matter-of-factly.

"Move!" Yellow Star shoved him away, provoking the attention of captain Dash.

She may have been new here, but she was still a higher rank. She had a duty to fulfill.

"Hey! Break it up you two!" She yelled.

Yellow Star stared her down, not letting this newbie tell him what to do.

"And just what do you want?" Yellow Star asked.

"Your speaking to a captain soldier. Act like it." Rainbow said orderly.

Rainbow held her ground, certain her rank would uphold her authority.

"What's going on here?" She asked.

The marine scrambled up from the ground and spoke quickly.

"That creep pushed me down and told me that wasn't my spot. But it is!" He said childishly.

Rainbow Dash shifted her gaze to corporal Yellow Star.

"Is that true?"

Yellow Star stood his ground. He replied coldly.

"Yeah." He said, taking a step closer to his commander.

Rainbow now spoke in a stern voice, annoyed with the corporal's insubordinate attitude.

"Stand down soldier. Get back in line, and let the human in too!" She ordered.

After a few seconds of intense staring, Yellow Star backed up and the marine entered the formation.

"Good, We're all friends now?" She asked, receiving no reply.

Rainbow Dash returned to her position, proud of herself for solving the quarrel. Just then, the human and Shining Armor had come back, trailing behind an older marine.

Ross spoke up.

"Your not coming sir?"

"No, I need to stay here and coordinate the men. The rest of the countries are being sorted out and will move out a few hours after you reach Baltimare. We'll be able to stay in contact with the extra radio you received. Use it accordingly. Your dismissed captain. Good luck and Godspeed. " Said Seaton.

"Thank you sir." Said captain Ross, moving to the front of the column accompanied by Shining Armor.

"Are we ready to move?" Ross asked the pony captain.

"They should be. Swift Wind! Did you organize the troops like I told you to?" Asked Shining Armor.

"Yes sir!"

"Good. We're ready as we'll ever be." Said Shining Armor.

Ross sighed and faced the troops.

"Alright! Let's move out!" He shouted.

The ponies and the marines left the small town of Ponyville, marching toward the great unknown and most likely toward a horrible, bloody death.

And it's name was Baltimare.

____________________________________________________________

Chapter 6

Older men declare war. But it is the youth that must fight and die.

-Herbert Hoover

12 miles south of Baltimare 10:08 PM

After a brisk three hour march, the combined forces of pony and marine had come to a stop twelve miles away from Baltimare. Tomorrow they would finish the journey and rendezvous with allied forces outside the city. The army was positioned in an open field, small campfires dotting the landscape. There were three defining groups of soldiers that formed within the main body. In the center, the veterans of the Ponyville skirmish or, the old breed, had gathered their bivouacking gear and settled down to enjoy one another's company. To the left and right were the new recruits who kept to themselves or in this case, their own species. Rainbow Dash and some of her troops were listening in on the veteran group who were laughing heartily and telling stories.

"Oh man, and then there was this one time..."

"Hey Jerry, tell the one about the chick with the umbrella. Yeah, that one!"

"... so I told him to blow it out his ass! Ha ha ha!"

Rainbow Dash was both interested and dumbfounded. How could two significantly different races get along so equally with each other? She bet even the human recruits were just as confused.

"I don't get it captain. Look at them, they're so... happy." Said Pvt. Sunny Breeze.

"I know. It just doesn't look natural." Said Rainbow.

Silver Sparks, Rainbow's lieutenant, trotted by stealthily.

'Snap'

Looking down, he noticed he'd stepped on a twig, attracting the attention of a few others, including captain Dash.

"Where do you think you're going lieutenant?" Asked Rainbow Dash.

"I'm heading over there ma'am. It's just too quiet for me here." He said, pointing to the group of happy soldiers.

"Oh, okay then. Make sure your back before dawn when we reset the marching column." She ordered.

"Yes ma'am."

One of the guards, Leafy Green, spoke up in a disgusted tone as he walked away.

"He's an odd one, ain't he?"

Rainbow Dash looked over with doubt.

"I don't know. They do look pretty comfortable over there."

And they were. Silver Sparks walked into the small encampment eyeing every single campfire and saw the same result every time. Smiles, laughs, and an equal share of ponies and humans surrounding each other, enthralled in the warm company of their new buddies.

This was where he belonged.

"Hey lieutenant, come over here!"

Perking his head up, he saw a small group of ponies and marines gathered around a spit cooking soup. They were waving him over as if he was with them at the battle of Ponyville.

"Oh, okay!" He said, trotting over with a goofy smile.

He sat down next to the most welcoming soldiers, one of which was the human that called him to their group.

"Hey, I'm lieutenant Harding." He said, sticking his hand out to be shook.

"Hi, I'm Silver Sparks."

The mare to his left slapped him on his back and spoke happily.

"Pleased to meet ya' Sparky, I'm Swift Wind!" She said.

This was Shining Armor's second-in-command!

"Nice to meet you too lieutenant."

"Oh for the love o' Celestia, just call me Swift Wind!" She scolded.

"Alright. Pleased to meet you, Swift Wind." He corrected.

"So tell us, why in the hell are you guys camped all the way over there?" Harding asked.

Silver Sparks glanced in the direction of his unit.

"I don't know. They think I'm being weird for coming over here. Maybe they're just scared." He said.

"Scared? Why would they be scared of us?" Said Swift Wind, wrapping her forelimbs around the shoulder of Harding and the human next to her playfully, who in turn started a chain in which the rest of the soldiers in the group followed suit.

This would have been a perfect moment for a photo. The small ensemble of soldiers were all locking legs, in the human's case it was arms, and were all smiling at him. Silver Sparks replied sheepishly, still enjoying the moment.

"I wouldn't know." He said with that same goofy smile plastered on his face.

Little did he know, everyone in the picture-perfect group would all be dead in the next few days.

____________________________________________________________

Battle of Baltimare Day 1-8:45 AM

In the trenches west of the city, captain Applejack and her small battalion of ponies had just arrived from Canterlot. They trotted into the makeshift dug-outs and made themselves at home. Applejack was especially nervous. The small firefight being fought between the unicorns and the changelings from the front of the trenches had her on-edge. It was a one hundred yard stare from her end of the trenches to the outskirts of Baltimare and the ponies stationed here before her had battled it out between the changelings for every inch of it.

The one hundred yards separating them was nopony's land.

"We're gonna have to go out there soon."

Applejack looked away from the barren landscape to see who was talking to her. It was one of her sergeants, Iron hoof, and he was staring solemnly at the battlefield in front of them.

"Yep. Lets just hope we don't run into any changelings on the way in." She replied.

"No doubt we will. Look at their positions. They're everywhere." Said Iron hoof.

"Ah don't think we'll have anything t' worry 'bout. Those humans should be here soon. Ah've heard they've got some kinda weapon that can throw tiny bits of metal at the speed of light. Ah bet they can take down anything coming their way." Applejack said.

Iron hoof suddenly adopted a look of disgust.

"Bah! Everywhere I go I hear about these 'humans'!" He said angrily.

"What about 'em?" Asked Applejack.

He looked away from his commander, donning a look of sadness and longing.

"Where were these humans when Las Pegasus was ransacked? My entire family has gone missing, probably dead. All because we couldn't get there in time. Then along came the humans to "save the day", well then where were they, huh? Where were they when my family needed them and their fancy weapons most?" He angrily inquired.

Applejack now understood his hatred toward the humans. But even still, this was no reason to hate them. They had fought for Equestria, and for all she knew, died for Equestria.

"That still ain't no reason t' hate them." She said.

"How could I not?" He asked.

Sergeant Iron Hoof was shaking his head in disbelief and on the verge of tears, probably upset from bringing up the loss of his family.

"Ah know yer upset but tell me something, how many humans have you met?" She asked.

"Well..." He trailed off, realizing his mistake.

"That's what ah thought. You cant judge them for what they weren't there for. Wait till they come along. Shouldn't be long now." She said, turning her head back to the field in front of her.

______________________________________________________

Battle of Baltimare Day 1- 9:34 AM

The 1st marine division wasn't far off, including the ponies that accompanied them. The two races, all fighting under the same banner, marched toward the sounds of chaos and were less than a mile away from the changeling-held city. They passed by debris and bodies on the road, a clear sign the war had claimed these parts as well.

"Damn, look at this. Whaddya make of it cap?" Asked lieutenant Harding.

The soldiers passed by fallen ponies, their bodies covered in the dust and decay that had accumulated over the few days they had laid there. But something was off about these. They were joined by smaller ponies, some carrying luggage and stuffed animals in their cold, dead hooves.

These were deceased civilians, and their children that had died with them.

Ross just kept walking by, not bearing the stomach to look.

"Dear god, these are civies." Said Avery.

Rainbow Dash looked on in horror. Who would lack the soul to kill innocent ponies?

"Take a good long look guys. Might give you second thoughts about surrendering." Said Sgt. Courtland.

"These were probably killed by a changeling war party when they tried to leave the city. They must have been ambushed when the fighting broke out." Guessed Shining Armor.

Without noticing, Tears had formed at Rainbow's eyes. She had lost all complexion and began silently crying to herself.

"You okay captain?" Asked Silver Sparks.

"Yeah, I... I'm.." She couldn't find the words to describe how she felt. It was just too heartbreaking to see ponies killed like this in cold blood. Not even the foals were spared. She could only look away and retain the minuscule amount of dignity she had left by not showing any tears.

"Eyes up! Friendlies ahead!" Yelled captain Ross.

Ahead of the troops was a small barricade manned by a few guard ponies that were waving them down.

"Over here!" One of them shouted.

The captains halted their units and ran up to the small position.

"Thank Celestia you guys got here when you did. We're gonna need everypony we can get for the assault on the city." Said one of the guards in a sigh relief.

"Yeah, well you can thank us later. Where do you need us to be?" Asked Ross.

The pony pointed to a location not to far off dotted with trenches and palisades.

"That's where the main assault is taking place. The general will probably want to see you three beforehoof though."

"Got it. Lets move it out!" Yelled Ross back to the troops.

The army trudged into the encampment, awaiting the charge that would most likely lead them to their deaths.

Not too far off, Applejack heard shouting within the camp. Looking over to the commotion, she realized that the reinforcements had arrived.

And with it, the humans.

She trotted over to get a good look at them and locate her friend to find out what she'd gotten herself into.

"Lets move! Into those trenches!" Yelled one of the humans.

Aside from the ponies, the human soldiers streamed into the camp wearing combat uniforms that carried all sorts of gadgets that she'd rather not know the purpose of.

She straightened her stetson hat and trotted over to the arriving army.

"Rainbow? Where are ya?" She shouted.

She was met with ignorance as the army glumly filed by her. As soon as the humans cleared out, either in the trenches or near the commanders tent, she finally saw her rainbow maned friend.

She was crying.

Galloping over to find out what had stirred her up so much, Applejack noticed the toll this war had already taken on her. Her hooves were dirty from the march here and her mane was even more frazzled than usual. Not to mention the tear streaks that covered the lower portion of her face.

"Rainbow, are ya okay?" She asked, drawing nearer with every gasping sob she heard from her friend.

Rainbow Dash looked up and saw the familiar face of her honest companion and almost collapsed. Luckily Applejack was there to catch her if she did.

"Oh Applejack, it's terrible. I, I cant even begin to..." She buried her face into Applejack's fur.

One half of her wanted to look at her and say 'I told ya so' but she decided that now wouldn't be the best time. She finally realized the truth about what she was so hyped up about.

War is tartarus, violent and bloody. It didn't care what it consumed in it's gaping maw or whomever it took. It just killed relentlessly and unforgivably.

"Ah know, it's alright." She said, stroking the back of her friends neck.

But it wasn't alright. In a few minutes she and her compatriots, including Rainbow, would have to venture out into the barren field in front of them and fight for a city controlled by a merciless enemy. Rainbow had stopped crying by now and looked up at her friend.

"Thanks Applejack, I needed that. But, don't tell any of the girls okay? That would kill my reputation." She said between sniffles, wiping the tears away from her eyes.

"Heh, you got it." Said Applejack.

"Hey Rainbow, over here! And bring what's-her-face with you!" Captain Ross called over to them.

The two trotted over to meet Ross, Shining Armor, and the other commanders who had gathered in the generals tent. They all stood around the table, speaking to one another and eyeing Ross with curious looks. The general spoke up, interrupting the incessant chatting floating around the tent.

"Alright, listen up everypony, and human." He said.

The commanders leaned in, taking in every aspect of the battle map.

"In a few minutes, we'll charge out and take the outer defenses of Baltimare. They've heavily fortified the outskirts and will fight furiously. You must do the same. Captain, uh..." The general paused, waiting for the human to introduce himself.

"Ross, sir." He said.

"Captain Ross. I understand you have weapons that are able to shoot fire over their positions?" The general asked, curious to see if the rumors were true.

"Yes sir, our M252 mortars are capable of firing explosive projectiles in a fixed ark over their defenses. They should prove useful in softening up those sally-ports I saw coming in." Said Ross.

"Excellent. This is the moment of truth everypony. Today is the day we take the fight to these changeling invaders. Your dismissed." Said the general, moving around small figurines representing different battalions on the map.

Everyone stepped outside and glanced at one another. This could be the last time anyone saw each other before the attack.

"Good luck you guys." Said Rainbow Dash.

Ross looked down and grinned at the rainbow maned pony.

Though not another word was said, they all noted the lingering sense of camaraderie in the air.

The commanders nodded at each other and left to address their units.

Ross, Shining Armor, and Rainbow Dash all stepped into the trench that their soldiers had filled not long ago to give them the details on the task at hand. They looked anxious and almost eager to get it over with.

"Alright, bring it in guys."

The soldiers leaned their heads in as far as they could in the crowded trench to hear what their leaders had to say. Shining Armor was the first to speak.

"In a few minutes, we're gonna have to leave this trench and take the fight to the changelings. They're expecting us, so we'll be under heavy fire for the most part." He said.

Ross cut in.

"Now keep in mind, there'll be no cover for at least a hundred feet so move fast and keep your heads down. There's gonna be a lot of fire in the air and I don't need it tearing your faces off." He noted.

Rainbow Dash winced at his description.

Changelings can shoot back? She thought.

She hadn't seen a changeling fight with anything but it's bare hooves.

"Courtland, I need your men to set up the mortars a few feet behind our current position and pepper them with mortar fire until we get about fifty feet in. Then, I want you to pack up your gear and haul-ass after us. Got it?"

"Aye skipper."

"Good. Get to it." Ross ordered.

As the men left to set up the mortars, Rainbow Dash looked at her troops. They watched her with anticipation. All the other captains had given out orders but her. She could only look away, resentful of the events to come.

"We're good over here sir!" Yelled Sgt. Connolly.

Ross stood on an elevated position in the trench began to speak to everyone.

"Listen up! The signal to go is gonna be a whistle! When you hear it, move-"

A loud ring filled the trenches, effectively cutting Ross off.

"That's the signal! Move!" He yelled.

A wide array of battle cries could be heard as the armies of Equestria scrambled out of their dug-outs and rushed the changeling positions a hundred yards away. The Pegasi took to the skies while the main infantry lumbered forward. In an instant, the dry air around them was quenched with plasma bursts. Human and pony alike fell left and right, and all Rainbow Dash could do was watch as she flew right into the slaughter.

"Lets go get the bastards!"

"Don't stop! Keep Moving!"

"Just keep- ARRGH!"

"Oh shit, oh shit, oh shit!"

Rainbow hovered low alongside Applejack as the previous human occupying the space had fallen to the ground just moments ago.

"Oh jeez, this isn't good Applejack!" Yelled Rainbow.

"Just keep moving and we'll- oh Celestia look out!"

A large plasma burst fired from a particularly large changeling barely grazed overhead, consuming the troops behind them in a fiery blaze. Rainbow looked back to check on the soldiers behind her only to find nothing but a gaping hole in the formation, a huge pile of soot, ash, and body parts in it's place.

And then the mortars began to fall.

"Aw shit, short rounds!" Yelled Pvt. Mueller

But that was all he could squeeze out before a shell struck home, and cut him clean in half.

"Oh man, getting killed by friendly fire ain't sittin' pretty with me at the moment!" Yelled Avery.

The army reached the halfway mark and the mortars ceased, providing the humans and ponies a short break from the hellish fire they were receiving a minute ago. Applejack just kept running, trying to ignore the dead and dying all over. After all, it was the only thing the soldiers could do to not get killed.

Run. Run and don't look back.

"That's it, we're almost there!" Shouted Shining Armor.

The changelings in front of them snarled, and braced themselves against the coming storm.

'WHAM'

The two armies slammed into each other as the ponies and humans poured into the enemy positions. The Pegasi dove into the trenches, pounding the changeling infantry into the ground. For a moment, there was no battle. Only a bunch of winded soldiers trying to stand back up and get their weapons together. Ross shook his vigorously, attempting to clear his head after banging it right into a changeling's iron breastplate.

"Oh, my head- Shit!" Ross yelled, picking up his gun and slamming the butt of it onto the changeling's head.

Underneath his cracked helmet, the changeling officer's head began bleeding profusely.

Kill confirmed.

Private Sunny Breeze broke through the hailstorm of fire directly into the lances of the changeling soldiers waiting for him on the other side of the trench. With a burst of confidence, he activated the weapon on his side and lunged into his patient enemy.

"I've got you now-"

Sunny Breeze rammed head first into a large changeling and fell to the ground, helpless. It was then that he realized that the lance mechanism on his breastplate had malfunctioned, and he was about to die. He glanced at his unreliable weapon and then up at the lumbering behemoth that was about to crush his skull in.

'Fwump'

Sunny Breeze opened his eyes and to his surprise, the changeling before him had hit the ground, blood leaking from the small hole in his head.

"Don't worry, I got your back!" Said his savior.

Looking up, he realized that the pony he now owed his life to was in fact, a human. The one thing he so underestimated earlier was now reaching down with those alien fingers of his and helping him up.

"Th-Thanks. I-I owe you one!" Sunny Breeze stuttered, standing up and rejoining the fight with new found respect for his two-legged companions.

Applejack stumbled over an equally surprised changeling regular. Both tried to stand back up but were pushed down by the scuffle occurring around them. She managed to recover her senses and get on her hooves.

She stared face-to-face with the changeling she had tripped on moments ago. It stared back. A memory from her childhood popped into her mind in the few seconds it had to materialize.

"Alright Applejack, this is yer first day so ah don't expect you to knock off all the apples. Kick as hard as you can. Make yer granny proud."

"You got it granny Smith!"

Without hesitation, Applejack spun around, reared back, and kicked the changeling soldier as hard as she had ever bucked any apple tree. It fell to the ground squirming in it's death throes, the blood leaking from the new hole in it's face.

And behind the fallen changeling stood a traumatized Rainbow Dash, staring at the carnage in front of her.

"Applejack, you just-"

"Behind ya!" Shouted Applejack.

Rainbow Dash spun around and was greeted by the sight of a rushing changeling lancer, poised and ready to strike. Without thinking, she released the lever-action on her own weapon and shut her eyes.

'shink'

Rainbow felt a warm substance hit her body. Upon opening her eyes she gazed at the poor changeling soldier that stood impaled on her lance. He sat there and stared at her with a look of sadness. His lower lip quivered slightly as the changeling slowly realized what had just happened. The soldier's eyes rolled up inside his head and he collapsed, bringing Rainbow's lance with him.

"I.. I did that..." Rainbow muttered to herself.

She tugged the lance out of the soldier's body and turned around to look at her friend, perhaps seeking some sort of approval. Applejack was too busy to notice. Another group of changelings had joined the fight and she was killing them left and right. Applejack brutally crushed the bodies of all those unfortunate enough in reach of her hind legs. Silver Sparks hit the ground ten feet from her, the attacking changeling rearing up to deal the death blow.

"No!" Rainbow yelled, spreading her wings and taking off.

In a flash, she'd zipped over the lieutenant and speared the changeling through, his body flying into the wall of the earthen defenses. It hung there, pierced by her lance and swung like some twisted marionette. She looked back and saw her lieutenant get up, nod, and rejoin the fight. Rainbow pulled and snapped her lance in two, the part still embedded in the changeling left him hanging on the wall of the trench. The battle raged on, leaving no one idle. The sounds of combat could be heard all over, including a loud popping noise. Rainbow Dash looked down the line of changeling barricades and saw the most brutal fighting Equestria had ever seen. One soldier, a human, was cornered by two changelings with drawn lances.

"Oh shit, NO-"

The man was cut short, the two lances impaling his neck and left eye socket. Two more humans arrived and raised their metal tubes to their shoulders.

What are they doing? They'll get killed! Rainbow thought.

In an instant, the ends of the tubes lit up in bright flashes and the two changelings were ripped to shreds.

Rainbow gawked. She'd never bothered to ask what those odd contraptions the humans carried around were. She figured they were of some importance but not like this. To possess so much power in such a compact weapon was frightening to her.

"C'mon we got this!" Yelled Sgt. Avery.

The changelings were scattered and in disarray. With most of the commanding officers killed and their main force routed, the surviving changelings fled deeper into the city. The remaining equestrians and humans shouted and cheered, relieved the battle was over and done.

"Haha! Run you bastards, run!"

"We did it! They're running!"

"Holy crap, I cant believe we made it!"

Captain Ross knelt down and smiled, too tired to celebrate standing up. Applejack sat in a corner covered in blood and sweat, looking at a dead human who's legs had been severed. Rainbow couldn't do anything. She just didn't have the energy. All she could do was stare. Stare at the horrible truth laid out in front of her. There was nothing 'cool' about war. War was just murder. It was a nightmare glorified on some stupid propaganda poster. Rainbow sat on that thought, the sound of the severed lance breaking off the wall and the dead changeling falling to the ground with a sickening 'splat' could be heard in the background.

Shining Armor trekked across the city outskirts, looking for wounded. He'd already come across countless dead bodies and three wounded soldiers. All three made it out, carried by the new stretchers they'd acquired earlier. He was about to retire to find Ross and the other commanders until he heard an all-too-familiar sound.

The coughing and sputtering of a wounded soldier.

Shining Armor furiously searched the piles of the dead until he saw movement under a dead pony. He carefully rolled the body over and was welcomed with a saddening sight. The broken, frail body of lieutenant Harding.

"Oh Celestia, Harding." He said.

Harding looked up and stared blankly at Shining Armor. His mouth moved, but the blood that filled it wouldn't permit words to leave. Shining Armor lowered himself next to the wounded human. He held Harding in his forelimbs, prompting him to look up.

"Just take it easy Harding, MEDIC!" He yelled.

Harding looked at Shining Armor with pale eyes and began to attempt speech.

"M..mom...momma.." He tried to get out, the blood flowing out of the corners of his mouth..

Shining Armor dared not speak.

"They..they're killin' me momma..."

Harding exhaled and went limp. He was dead. The corpsman arrived with medical supplies but was too late. Shining Armor closed Harding's eyes and gently lowered his head, leaving the corpsman to deal with the body. The humans always pulled the metal tags off of their fallen allies necks. He never really understood that but went along with it anyway. Trotting back, Shining Armor found Ross coordinating troops to secure areas that the changelings could mount a counter-attack in.

"Good, I need you guys to- oh, hey." Said Ross, noticing the weary pony captain.

"We need to talk." Said Shining Armor.

"About what?"

"Harding, he... he's dead." Shining Armor said, lowering his head.

Ross adopted a melancholy look and sighed.

"Shit, well.. I'll talk to the guys about it. A lot of people are dead." Said Ross.

"Alright then, I'm gonna go find the others. See how they're faring."

Ross looked up and called out to Shining Armor, remembering something he meant to tell him earlier.

"Oh uh, the general radioed in. He says the other countries are on the move and are closing in on numerous cities. The Germans and the British'll be here soon." Said Ross.

"The who and the what?" Asked Shining Armor.

Ross realized he'd never told the ponies anything about the other humans. Aside from Americans, the ponies knew next to nothing about human ethnicity.

"Just two other human armies from two different human countries."

"Oh, okay." Shining Armor deadpanned, walking away to see who was left after the attack.

________________________________________________________________

Canterlot Castle 11:45 AM

Major Ingram and Celestia were huddled together by a heavily detailed map of the city of Baltimare and beside them were the remaining elements in Canterlot. Pinkie had gotten bored and began pestering the military advisors around her while Twilight and Rarity stood idly by, waiting for something to happen and a chance to give helpful input for the princess. Fluttershy's innate sense of medicinal skills got her a position in the medical wing. She sat on a bench, fiddling with some documents stating medical procedures.

"We've managed to secure the areas here and here." Said Ingram, pointing to two different locations on one side of the map.

"When your armies arrive they'll most likely be coming in from the south, or in this case the other side of town. We can use that to our advantage." Said Celestia.

"Yes, we should be able to surround them by then and without a supply route they'll have to surrender." Said Ingram.

Rarity cut in, giving advice she thought might help.

"Oh, but if you looked more closely you would notice that there's a small pass west of the southern routes into the city. They would still be able to replenish supplies and send reinforcements unless we hold that road." Rarity said, adding a small wink.

Ingram squinted and looked at the map with extreme intensity. His eyes fell upon the faded markings of 'Cherry Drop' pass, a small path used as a tourist stop for travelers and saddle-packers.

"Dear god, if you hadn't seen that... well, it could have put the whole campaign in jeopardy." Said Ingram.

Celestia smiled and spoke in a warm voice, one she had not used in a long time.

"Excellent job Rarity. I knew your attention to detail would help us here."

"Oh, thank you princess! Thank you!" Rarity said, feeling privileged that the princess would speak so highly of her.

Twilight stood by, not doing anything in particular. She no longer yearned for the attention of the princess but instead earnestly waited for news of her brother.

"Rarity, if you would please step over here and assist me in pointing out-"

Ingram was cut off by hissing static coming from the radio next to him.

"Oh, hold on." Ingram said, picking up the receiver.

The new radio had a speaker ability, added so that the receiver didn't have to relay the message over to the group.

"This is the royal Canadian infantry corps in sector-'BOOM' -shit! Get up Mills, and keep shooting! In sector bravo 2! We're getting hit hard by changeling infantry and- what the, they're coming over the walls- AAAAAAHH- AAAHH-"

The radio was silenced save the eerie static that replaced the cries of the soldier on the other end.

"What was that?" Fluttershy nervously questioned.

"That was the Canadian garrison sent to reinforce Appleloosa after it was lost. They reached the town earlier today and reported that everything was fine." Said Ingram with a grim voice.

Are.. are they okay?" Asked Twilight.

"I, I don't know." Said Ingram.

Pinkie's hair had deflated and Fluttershy was cowering behind Angel who had stealthily snuck aboard the carriage to Canterlot.

"We'll have to send reinforcements at once." Said Rarity.

Ingram stared at her sadly.

"We cant."

"Well, why not?" Asked Rarity.

Ingram was quick to reply.

"We have no one left to send."

___________________________________________________________

Battle of Baltimare Day 1-2:01 PM

After assessing the damage, the captains reported into the general stationed at the camp north of Baltimare. Ross and Shining Armor were redirecting the wounded back to camp and placing sentries to ward off any counterattacks and take any prisoners that chose to give themselves up. Rainbow Dash and Applejack sat in the company of each other next to a few other troops, all exhausted from the fighting that had ensued earlier that day.

"And then they killed him. Just like that." Said Rainbow Dash.

Applejack felt sympathy for her friend. Being thrust into war with a gung-ho attitude was a sure way of getting disappointed, let alone scared to death.

"It was terrible Applejack. I didn't know it would be so horrible."

Applejack looked over and stared at Rainbow with a stern face.

"That's exactly what Ah've been tryin' to tell ya Rainbow. War ain't a game." She said.

"But how did you do it? How could you just murder those changelings like that?" Asked Rainbow.

Applejack sat on that question for a second.

How was I able to cope with it? She thought.

She hadn't even noticed how easy it actually was for her to kill those soldiers earlier in the fight.

"Well, ya see... I thought about mah family and what would happen to them if those changelings would'a gotten their hooves on 'em. Ah saw what might become of Apple Bloom and everyone else and Ah just couldn't have that."

Rainbow understood. She didn't really have any family to fight for save a few relatives living in Cloudsdale. Applejack had family all over Equestria. Celestia knows what might've happened to some of them already.

"Yeah, I get it." Rainbow said, lowering her head.

Suddenly, troops started crowding around an area not too far from them. Curious, Applejack and Rainbow stood up and trotted over to see what had happened.

"I say we kill those no good sons-of-bitches!"

Ross and Shining Armor were standing by a group of three changelings, presumably prisoners who had given up and turned themselves in. They were horribly frightened, the ever-growing crowd of humans and ponies surrounding them and spouting words of hate.

"We oughta cut off their heads and string 'em up!"

Ross intervened and stepped in front of the prisoners.

"Everyone shut the hell up! We're not gonna kill 'em."

The troops grew quiet and stared at the changelings with disgust.

"Private Santana! Take these three to the camp and don't let anything happen to them." Ordered Ross.

Santana replied with resentment.

"Yes... sir." He reluctantly said.

"And if anything happens to 'em, it's KP and latrines for a month!" Said Ross.

Santana marched off with the three changelings begrudgingly, muttering hateful words under his breath.

"Alright, nothing to see here!" Yelled Swift Wind, trying to disperse the crowd of angry soldiers.

"Yeah, we don't need everyone crowding one spot. Lets not give the changelings that are still fighting a chance to catch us with our pants down!" Said Ross.

The troops fanned out, settling in varied positions along the line.

"Do You think they'll come at us tonight?" Asked Shining Armor.

Ross looked at his compatriot and chuckled lightly.

"Probably." Said Ross as he walked off to write the after-action report.

______________________________________________________________

Battle of Baltimare Day 1-6:43 PM

Ross stepped into the tent of the pony general and saluted.

"You wanted to see me sir?" Ross asked.

The general looked up and acknowledged Ross.

"Ah, yes. It's good you've come. We need to discuss something." He spoke with a thick Canterlot dialect.

"Of course sir." Ross said, sitting down in a small chair in the corner.

"I understand you and your soldiers have fought long and hard for the outskirts of Baltimare just as much as mine have, but I have one more task to ask of you." He confessed.

"I.. Yes sir." Ross said, holding his tongue

"We have received word that there is in fact a small path west of here that could grant the changelings tactical superiority over us. I need you and your soldiers to secure it for the arriving armies. Captain Shining Armor will hold the outskirts in your absence. You may take one battalion to assist you. Who is it you request?" The general asked.

Ross thought intently. He needed to pick a strong captain, one who was able to keep his or her head physically and mentally during the fight earlier that day. Normally he could depend on Shining Armor to fit that description but seeing as though he was now out of the equation he needed to be smart.

He decided.

"Captain Applejack sir."

"Good. You must leave at once. Your departure will make the remaining garrison weak so time is of the essence. Good luck captain." Said the general, looking down at his maps.

Ross lifted the flaps on the tent and realized something.

I didn't see the prisoners when I came in. He thought.

"Um, general?"

The old pony looked up.

"What happened to the prisoners that came in today?" Ross asked.

The general adopted a look of sympathy. But for who Ross did not know.

"Oh, I thought you had heard. They attacked the poor fellow guiding them and killed him. They managed to get away before we could reach them. I'm sorry for your loss." He said.

Ross couldn't believe what he'd just heard. He made Pvt. Santana take them. He felt like he killed the poor kid himself.

"I.. I'll inform the men. Thank you sir." Ross said, leaving the tent.

Outside, Ross shuddered as he took a deep breath. He started walking, trying to hold back the tears and thinking of a way to break it to the tired soldiers back at Baltimare.

Both of the attack to come, and their fallen comrade.

____________________________________________________________

Chapter 7

A soldier will fight long and hard for a bit of colored ribbon.

-Napoleon Bonaparte

Battle of Baltimare Day 1-9:37 PM

"Captain Applejack! You ready to move out?" Yelled Ross.

As if the trip back across the plain to the barricades surrounding the outskirts of town was bad enough, telling the men that they needed to lay their lives down on the line once more that day with one less marine in their ranks was pure, agonizing torture. After informing his marines, Ross confronted Applejack and told her of the plan their general had concocted. They'd been silently preparing for the past few hours, awaiting the moment when they would have to leave their comrades to defend their newly won territory.

"Just about!" Replied Applejack, turning to Rainbow Dash.

"Are you sure about this? What if something happens?" Said Rainbow worriedly.

"Relax Rainbow, ain't nuthin' gonna happen to me." Applejack said, tightening her saddle pack.

Rainbow bit her lower lip and nervously squirmed where she sat.

"I mean, what if something happens to me? You were so in control today and I, I just lost it! Without you, I don't know what I'd do! I would just-"

Applejack put a hoof to Rainbow's mouth, effectively shutting her up.

"Ya don't have ta worry 'bout anything Rainbow. They probably wont even attack us tonight. We whupped 'em good today. They'd be crazy just to try." Applejack said with a stern voice.

Rainbow sat still for a moment.

"You're, you're probably right. Sorry I freaked out on you." She admitted.

"That's alright. I gotta go give them changelings what-for so ah'll probably be back before dawn. Stay safe, got it?" Said Applejack, turning away to rally her troops.

"Yeah, sure." Rainbow said dishearteningly.

Applejack trotted over to her soldiers. They were tired after today's fighting and showed obvious signs of fatigue. They looked even worse than she did after having to buck all the trees on the farm herself during apple-bucking season. The human, Ross, stepped over and spoke quietly to her.

"Aright, here's the deal. When we reach the pass, I want you to take your troops and circle around the left. I'm gonna take my boys and go around the right. Strolling down the middle of the road would just give us away so stick to the foliage coming in. Wait for my signal, then give the order to charge. They wont even know what hit 'em." He said triumphantly.

Applejack looked at him with concern. He was so sure his plan would work that he probably didn't even bother to consider any X-factors. What if they had reserves? What if they had a better defense? What if they weren't even there at all?

"You seem pretty confidant. Are ya'll sure this'll work?" She asked.

"Well, we tried it once, but they were waiting for us. Somehow, they knew of our attack. They probably don't even know we're coming this time though." He said reluctantly.

Applejack sighed. He really didn't know if it would play out right or not. She was sure of it.

"Ah guess..." She said, turning toward her soldiers.

"Alright everypony, we're gonna creep up that road west of here and give them changelings a good scare. Hopefully, they'll turn tail and run when we show up. Ironhoof, lead the troops up the left side of the road and stick to the bushes so they don't see us coming."

"Yes ma'am."

"Good. Once we get to the road, get into position until ah give the signal, understand?" Said Applejack.

"Yes ma'am!" Replied her guards.

Ross stepped up and waved the battalion over to his position.

"Everyone get ready to move light and fast. Once we leave, it'll leave Shining Armor and his boys here pretty weak so we gotta do this quick. We'll move double-time up the road until we get close to the pass. Got it?"

The congregation of soldiers nodded silently.

"Great. Lock and load boys, lets go kill us some changelings!" Said Ross.

"Hoorah!" Yelled the marines, the ponies following suit with their own quaint cheers.

Shining Armor, Rainbow Dash, and the rest of the troops watched their force weaken one by one as Ross and Applejack led the main body of the army out into the blackness west of their feeble defenses.

_____________________________________________________

Canterlot Castle 9:39 PM

Twilight sat at a table viewing tactical maps. They were old topographical and political maps with scribbles and markings on it.

The maps depicted the city Baltimare.

When Twilight came across the parchment, her mathematical curiosity got the best of her and she had to take a look. When she finally realized what it was however, she immediately became even more interested. The map dictated the tactical moves employed by the Equestrians when the changelings had invaded. She could immediately point out several tactical errors that had cost them the city and the terrible losses they had taken.

"Tsk tsk tsk... no no why would they move them here? There was obviously a larger force defending that courtyard!" Twilight said.

She could only sit in question at the idiotic moves obviously undertaken by military advisers and generals. The princesses couldn't possibly make moves like these without realizing the consequences. Then she looked at the outskirts of the city. Scribbled on the lower half were the words "Hold here until humans arrive" written in big black ink and circled.

That's where Rainbow and Applejack are right now. She thought solemnly to herself.

"Hiya Twilight!" Pinkie yelled as she comically tore her head straight through the map she was reading.

"AH!" Twilight screamed as she flipped over on her back.

"We're sorry if we interrupted you... oh please don't be mad!" Fluttershy said as she burrowed her face in her hair.

Twilight got back on her hooves and fixed her ruffled mane. Looking up, she was greeted by the apologetic faces of her friends.

"It's okay, I was about to put those maps up anyway." Said Twilight.

Rarity trotted over, observing the maps in question.

"Why on earth would you even be touching these filthy things anyway? They're so...dusty." She said with disgust.

"Oh, they're nothing. Just some old stuff I came across."

Just then, the door to the throne room flew open and an excited guard pony galloped through towards the princesses.

"The human garrison has arrived!" He said standing in the middle of the room, all eyes on him.

Princess Celestia looked up and nodded.

"Excellent. I'll be down at once." She said while stacking documents on a desk with her magic.

Twilight, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie raced down to the main gate followed by a cowering Fluttershy. They skidded to a stop at the road leading into the city as the approaching army marched by. The humans wore body armor on their slick uniforms unlike anything they'd ever seen on Equestrian royal guards. The soldiers resembled Ingram and Taylor but came in all different sizes.

"Woooooooooooow!" Pinkie said, prolonging her exasperated reaction to the human presence as they passed their small group and the surrounding ponies.

"I say, what on earth are those things?" Said one pony with emphasis.

The pampered citizens of Canterlot stood by with their children, watching the humans intently. The soldiers did the same, glancing at the curious ponies behind their helmets and gas masks.

"Они говорят. Теперь я видел все." Said one of the troops.

More chatter came from the army as they approached the castle.

"Huh? They don't sound anything like Mr. Taylor or Mr. Ingram." Fluttershy said timidly.

"Ugh! Those outfits look atrocious! I hope I don't have to go near any of those things anytime soon." Said Rarity.

Suddenly, a gust of wind blew her service cap off her head right next to the column of troops.

"Oh no, now I have to go and get it. Uh, I suppose I can wait until those ruffians pass by." Pouted Rarity.

Just then, a seemingly young soldier stepped out of line and glanced at Rarity then back at the cap. He leaned down and gripped the fabric, hesitated, then stood up.

"Eeeeeww! It's touching it! Celestia knows where those barbaric hands of theirs have been! What if he tries to make off with it? I custom-made that!" Rarity gasped.

The soldier turned toward the group of ponies and began taking small steps, then larger ones, until he was only a few feet away from the group. Fluttershy hid behind Twilight while Rarity cringed at the sight of the rugged man coming her way. Pinkie was now at the front of the line greeting every soldier as they passed by. The man with the cap was now only a few inches in front of them, staring down silently at the white pony. He reached out his hand holding the colorful headgear and blatantly stared. Then he spoke.

"Это твое?" He said.

Rarity quickly snatched the cap out from the soldiers hands to which he winced at her display of never-before-seen magic.

"Um, thank you?" Said Rarity.

A larger soldier emerged from the column and shouted at the one that had returned Rarity's cap.

"Василий! Еще в строю!" He shouted.

The young man jumped at the other's voice and wheeled around on it's heels, standing at attention.

"Да, товарищ!"

The soldier looked back at Rarity, nodded, then ran back in formation. An anxious Pinkie returned gasping for breath.

"Wait! I didn't get your name! Come to think of it, I couldn't get any of their names. All I heard was 'blah blah blah!'. They should really learn proper Equestrian so they can-"

Pinkie was interrupted by General Taylor's arrival.

"They're Russians. They have their own native language." He said.

A distinguished soldier stepped out of line and greeted Taylor in a thick accent.

"General Taylor I presume?"

"That's right. Pleased to meet you general Leonev." Said Taylor as he shook hands with the decorated commander.

"It is Good to see a friendly face. We were attacked by those ублюдки on our way here. We took no losses but got roughed up quite a bit."

"Good to know You made it here alright. Oh, I'd like you to meet some of the important figures we have here. This here is Twilight Sparkle, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie." Said Taylor.

The girls responded in their usual fashion.

"Hello."

"H-hello....."

"Charmed."

"Hi! My name's Pinkie Pie and I like-"

Taylor cut in.

"Anyway, the princesses should be down in a little bit. Get your men acquainted while your at it. The barracks for your troops is set up on the north side of town and the nearby market should provide food for them." He said.

"Good. I'll see to it they know. Сергей! Возьмите людей к северной стороне города и заставить их создать в казармах обеспечен!" Shouted the General.

"Да, сэр!" Responded a soldier.

The army of Russians shouted orders down the line as they veered their column towards their new home. Princess Celestia and princess Luna arrived shortly afterward, accompanied by a consort of royal guards.

"Ah, you're the Russian commander, yes?" Asked Celestia.

"That would be correct." Confirmed Leonev.

Luna trotted up and did something akin to a curtsy and spoke proudly.

"We welcome you and your gallant warriors to Equestria fine commander. Please make yourself at home." She said.

Leonev bowed slightly and replied.

"I thank you for the exceptional welcome your majesties."

Celestia came forward.

"It is well you have come to aid us general." Said Celestia, gesturing a wing towards the castle.

"We have much to talk about."

____________________________________________________

West of Baltimare Day 1-9:53 PM

Ross' and Applejack's unit quietly crept their way up the sides of the road until they reached the rocky pass they were ordered to seize. There was no sign of anyone ever having been there so they continued along the rugged path.

"Ah don't like this. It's too quiet." Said Applejack.

Ross didn't know what to say. He was already on-edge following the absence of the changelings. The last time they had tried a preemptive strike it had played out in their favor but at a cost. The changelings were waiting for them at the ambush point resulting in casualties that should have never occurred.

"We should keep moving down the road. We'll find their encampment eventually." Ross replied reluctantly.

"If you say so." Said Applejack.

A mile down the road, the army had reached a rocky cliff that overlooked the plains surrounding Baltimare. From their position, the Equestrians and the humans could see their own friendly positions sitting on the northern outskirts.

"Looks peaceful from here doesn't it? It's almost like the war never happened." Said Sgt. Freeman.

Sergeant Ironhoof looked over at the human and scowled. He didn't need to answer to the likes of them. His hatred for them fueled by the loss of his family still burned on. Even after the attack on the city earlier that day he had felt no different.

"Don't it?" The man said, now staring at Ironhoof and expecting a reply.

"Hmm... yeah, sure." Said the pony, looking away.

"You okay?" Asked Freeman.

Ironhoof didn't answer and instead stared at the eerie silence of the grassland in front of him, gazing eagerly to confirm if what he thought he saw earlier was real.

"Because if you need someone to talk to I can surely-"

"What was that?" Asked Ironhoof.

Freeman tried to pinpoint where Ironhoof was looking.

"What was what?"

"That, down there. Oh Celestia, the changelings! They're attacking the garrison!" Yelled Ironhoof.

Ross and Applejack looked down at the city to confirm what the frantic pony had just uttered. Ross grabbed the pair of binoculars off his neck and scanned the outskirts, curious to see what had caused the panic.

"Holy motherfucking ass-crackers! They're attacking our troops!" Shouted Ross.

"Wha- oh no. Rainbow. We gotta get down there now!" Replied Applejack.

"Lets move! Everyone down the pass, we gotta go help our guys!"

____________________________________________________________

Battle of Baltimare Day 1-9:59 PM

"RAAAAA-"

The changeling in front of Rainbow Dash hit the ground, a bloodied spear torn right through its chest. The attack had come in silence up to the point of a distinct changeling war cry and the sound of lances crashing against armor and flesh. The changelings had attacked shortly after the humans and Applejack left, leaving them stranded and vulnerable.

"Just hold out a little bit longer!" Yelled Silver Sparks.

Rainbow had frozen in place when the changelings began flowing out of the woodwork but was now actively maneuvering her way towards Twilight's older brother for extra protection. Because right now, he was the safest pony to be next to in the whole war.

"Eat this!" Yelled Rainbow, driving her lance through the back of an unsuspecting changeling.

Another one came at her from the side, lance extended for the kill. Quickly, she dodged and counterattacked, effectively finishing off the attacking enemy.

"Ha! Too slow!" She said, employing her brash personality in the heat of combat.

She could now see Shining Armor clearly in the moonlight. He was surrounded but obviously had the situation under control as several changelings went flying every time he bucked his legs. All she had to do was-

'Fwump'

Rainbow Dash hit the ground hard. A changeling captain had pinned her to the ground and raised his spear for the killing blow. All she could do was wait for it to end. Hopefully it wouldn't be as painful as she imagined it would be.

Crack!

The changeling's head opened up and brain matter spilled onto Rainbow's face. The lifeless body hung there eerily, even in death maintaining it's stance. The human, Ross, kicked the body over then reached for his helmet and spoke.

"Nice shot Jacobs! Keep it up!"

Ross looked down at the stunned Rainbow Dash and held a hand out to her.

"Get up captain! This ain't over yet!"

____________________________________________________

Battle of Baltimare Day 1-10:03 PM

The attack ended just as soon as the humans arrived with Applejack and her troops. The changelings disbanded and fell back into the city, not even bothering to grab the wounded. Ross, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash sat on a few crates drinking from their canteens.

"You okay? You look pretty shaken up." Said Ross as he took a swig of water from his canteen.

"Yeah, I'm cool. I totally handled myself back there. Applejack you would've been amazed at how awesome I was during that fight, I totally-"

"There ain't nuthin 'awesome' about war." Applejack said, cutting herself off by taking a drink.

It was quiet for a minute after that, the three no longer discussing that day's events. The soldiers however, were relieved to see their buddies alive and happily conversed with one another. Those who lost friends mourned where their bodies sat. It was a sad reunion, but under the circumstances the Equestrians would take it. They looked forward to a long nights rest because tomorrow, they would be entering the city to root out all remaining enemy resistance.

__________________________________________________________

Battle of Baltimare Day 2-8:32 AM

The advance into the city was slow paced and agonizingly quiet. For the first ten minutes the advancing forces hadn't seen a lick of the changelings. The battered ruins in front of them offered only silence and obstructive debris. The Equestrians would take it street by street. Then they would move into the buildings and clear out each room, taking prisoners if they had to.

If they could only find prisoners to take.

"Where the hay are those guys?" Asked Swift Wind.

"Shhhh. Don't break silence." Said Shining Armor.

Further back along the advancing column Private Sandler, a replacement, noisily crunched the broken glass beneath their feet as he and the soldiers around him pushed forward into the city.

"Why do we have to go in first? Cant we just wait till the reinforcements get here?" Sandler asked.

"Because the brass wants this city taken as soon as possible to make the rendezvous in the capitol city. Besides, the Germans and the British'll be here soon so quit your complaining." Lance Corporal Childers said irritably.

"Sheesh, take it easy. I didn't mean nothing by it. I just cant wait to get me a changeling. You guys took all of 'em last night before I could get a shot off." Said Sandler.

Sergeant Cumberland looked up and shook his head.

"You rooks think you know everything. 'When do I get to fight?' or 'when am I gonna bag me a tango?'. You kids don't know the first thing about whats going on here. You wanna know the best part about this? Right now. Why? Because we're not fighting and dying. I don't know about you, but I cant wait to get home from this goddamn war and see my wife and kids." He said, looking away from the crowd of troops now staring at him solemnly.

It was quiet for a long time until they came to an intersection near the town square. Ross halted the troops and crept forward accompanied by Shining Armor.

"Whaddya think?" Said Ross.

Shining Armor scanned the buildings in front of them and frowned.

"It's too quiet. We should keep-"

"Contact!"

Suddenly, the air around them was filled with plasma bursts prompting the entire army to stop and hit the dirt.

"We cant stay here!" Yelled Applejack.

"I know, I know! Just let me think!" Yelled Ross.

Dark figures moved around behind the windows of each building firing plasma shots at the pinned down infantry. Any Pegasus that tried to get airborne was picked off with ease. The Unicorns and marines fired aimlessly at the buildings, praying the madness would end.

"Move into the buildings! We have to get off this street!" Yelled Ross.

The army surged left and right as each squad picked a door to escape the hailstorm of fire coming at them from all sides.

Sergeant Cumberland lined up alongside a few other marines and ponies. One of them, a rainbow maned Pegasus, reared up to kick down the door.

"Whoa, hold it!" Yelled Cumberland.

Rainbow Dash halted her legs fast enough that she just barely scraped the door.

"Are you crazy?! We have to get off this street!" She yelled.

"How do you know if they aren't waiting for us to rush in? Put some grenades in those windows!" Yelled Cumberland.

The marines smashed in the windows and lobbed their fragmentation grenades into the shop. Several loud bangs accompanied by screams of pain were heard shortly after.

"Kick that door in!"

Rainbow reared back again and bucked the door off it's hinges, sending it splintering across the room.

"Go go go!" Ordered Cumberland.

The ponies and marines rushed into the lobby of the store they had breached and were welcomed by the ravaged bodies of the changelings they had killed with the grenades.

"See? What'd I tell ya?" Said Cumberland.

"I... I had no idea.." Said Rainbow.

"Exactly. Now lets go clear the upper floors. We gotta take the heat off our guys in the street!" Shouted Cumberland, rushing up the stairs towards the sound of changeling spell bursts.

Outside, Applejack crouched tightly behind a barrel praying a plasma shot wouldn't hit her. Swift Wind galloped past and knocked her aside, saving her from a plasma burst that would've killed her.

"Oh Celestia! I owe you ma life!" Yelled Applejack.

Swift Wind smiled and nodded at her.

"No problem, now lets get moving before they-"

Swift Wind's head jerked and her body hit the ground. Applejack stumbled back and beheld the sight of the lieutenants scorched head. Her mane was burning and the skin around her face was singed black.

She was dead.

Applejack was in hell. All she could do was sit and wait until this deadly firefight ended so they could keep pushing into the city. Because in actuality, she just wanted to get as far away from the corpse in front of her as possible.

Ross watched Swift Wind hit the ground ten feet away from him. Next to him, Shining Armor bravely returned fire, completely oblivious to what just happened.

"God dammit! We have to get off this road!" Yelled Avery.

"Wait! You see that? The buildings on the left aren't shooting at us anymore!" Said Silver Sparks.

Sergeant Cumberland, Rainbow Dash, and the rest of the troops had effectively cleared out the upper floors of the strip mall across the street and were returning fire on the buildings that were still changeling-held.

"Yeah! We got 'em on the run! Yelled Ironhoof.

"C'mon! Lets chase 'em down!" Shouted Avery.

Ross and Shining Armor halted their troops.

"No, hold up!" Yelled Ross.

Shining Armor galloped in front of the soldiers.

"Stop, STOP!" He yelled.

The troops skidded to a halt, huffing from the tiresome fight that took place a few seconds ago.

"What gives?"

"C'mon, we can end this now!"

"Look! They're getting away!

Ross climbed up onto a wagon and addressed the weary soldiers.

"Listen up! We cant go any further today. Right now, we need to regroup and resupply. Tomorrow, with the help of the Germans and the British, well push into town and finish it!" He Shouted.

The troops calmed down and began milling around the area searching for friends that had gone missing and items they might have dropped. Rainbow Dash found Applejack and rejoiced. Shining Armor and Ross met on the street corner and began discussing the plans for the next day.

"When we hear the reinforcements coming from the north, we'll start our advance. The changelings should be pressured enough into surrendering by then." Said Ross.

Shining Armor nodded and stared out into the remaining blocks they had to secure.

"Tomorrow's gonna be a long day. I cant believe we-"

A soldier called out from behind them, cutting off Shining Armor.

"Captain!"

The two commanders walked over to the source of the voice and immediately regretted it. After cutting through the large crowd, Shining Armor could only stare at the limp body of his esteemed lieutenant.

"What's going on here- oh god..."

Ross stopped where he was, glanced at the corpse, and then at his captain counterpart. Shining Armor wore a somber look, never taking his eyes off the unfortunate pony in front of them.

"My condolences. If it makes you feel any better..." Ross trailed off, realizing Shining Armor had already trotted off.

The bereaved pony captain stood in the middle of the road, eyes closed, head pointed up at the sky.

He remained like that for the rest of the day.

__________________________________________________

Battle of Baltimare Day 3- 11:43 AM

The sound of gunfire in the distance awoke the startled Equestrian troops in the early light of the morning. Ross, Shining Armor, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash rallied their troops for the long day ahead of them.

"Lets go! We gotta help the others!" Yelled Ross.

The marines and ponies quickly filed into their squads and began to move out. Halfway up the block, They came under fire by changeling infantry firing in all directions.

"Hit the deck!" Yelled Avery.

Suddenly, a voice crackled in Ross' earpiece. It was foreign, and appeared to be speaking to him.

"Günther, halten das Feuer! American unit! We are under heavy fire and need support! Can you confirm our location?" Yelled the soldier.

Ross touched his earpiece and replied.

"Uh, yeah! We can see you from our position across the street! It's the destroyed building on the left right?"

"Ja! We can see you as well! My men are entering the building on the right. Tell your troops to hold your fire!" Yelled the man.

"Got it! Everyone hold your fire! Hold your fire!" Shouted Ross.

Over the battles being fought across the city, the marines and ponies outside the building ahead of them could easily hear the one taking place in front of them. The sound of breached doors and flash-bangs could be heard echoing throughout the structure. Then, for the most part, silence.

"What happened?" Asked Rainbow Dash.

"Just wait a sec." Said Ross.

Human soldiers began pouring out of the buildings and shouting commands.

"Amerikanische Soldaten! Halten Sie Ihr Feuer!" Shouted one soldier as he stepped out from cover and sprinted over to Ross.

"You are the Americans, yes?" Asked the soldier.

"Yep. Captain Arthur Ross. We've been here quite a while. It's good to finally see some more friendly faces. Germans right?" Ross said extending a hand.

The soldier shook it quickly and replied.

" Ja. Major Hans Ackart. The British came in on the other side of town. We need to push through to the center of the city. We'll meet them there and end this." Said the major.

"Sounds like a plan. Gather around!" Yelled Ross.

The Equestrians formed a wide arc around Ross and leaned in.

"Shining Armor, I need you to take your guys and move down that street. From there, you should be able to see the advancing British forces. Follow them in. We'll meet you in the center of the city."

"You got it. Be careful out there. You never know what kind of tricks they might pull on us." Said Shining Armor, leading his forces down the street opposite the marines.

"Rainbow Dash and Applejack, you two break off down that road and get a flank on these bastards. When we send 'em running, I want you guys to encircle their retreating forces and capture or kill as many as you can. Got it?" Said Ross

Both nodded vigorously.

"Alright, lets get this done."

The troops all moved in their specific directions and engaged the wavering changeling force desperately trying to hold on to the dying city.

________________________________________________

Canterlot 11:41 AM

"Дмитрий, приносят собак здесь!"

The Russian barracks was was no longer the empty corner it was a few days ago. It was now a lively encampment that often kept the civilians of that district awake and annoyed. Twilight, Rarity, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie stood nearby watching the humans perform their curious tasks only further confusing the nearby ponies. Then, to everyone's surprise, they heard the loud barking of dogs. Fluttershy gasped.

"Wow, they have puppies! I cant wait to smooch and snuggle them and-"

A Russian turned the corner pulling a leash attached to five huge, snarling German Shepherds.

"Oh my..." Fluttershy whimpered.

Pinkie wasn't fazed and began jubilantly hopping over to the large dogs, Getting closer to them by every passing second.

"Ooooo! They look so cute! Applejack has a dog like that, only smaller and cuter and-"

'Snap'

Pinkie jumped back in surprise, the barking dogs in front of her ferociously snapping their jaws at her.

"Hey, Winona doesn't do that!" She said.

The other Russians began laughing to themselves at the sight in front of them and continued doing whatever mundane duty they were tasked as if nothing happened. Rarity swooped in and pulled Pinkie back toward the group.

"Hey girls, maybe we should go check out the shops..." Said Twilight, slowly turning away from the foreign soldiers.

_______________________________________________

Battle of Baltimare Day 3-11:58 AM

The center of town was in sight, and the changelings were making the humans and ponies pay for every inch of it in blood. Shining Armor and the British armed forces had just cleared a small courtyard and were now sprinting across a street to clear a building overlooking the city square.

"Lets move! They're pulling back!" Yelled the British captain.

"C'mon! The door is this way!" Shouted Shining Armor.

The humans stacked up against the door while the unicorns put suppressing fire on the changelings down the road.

"Flash-bangs out!"

The windows of the shop were smashed in and the distinct sound of numerous bangs and cries for help were heard shortly after.

"Alright lets get 'em!" Said a soldier rushing in and emptying the clip in his Enfield rifle.

The lobby of the building was cleared and a portion of humans clambered noisily up the stairs. Private Mills, a sharpshooter, passed by numerous corridors and hallways but skidded to a stop at a specific spot. It was a door, beautifully engraved with praise for the ruling sisters, but still nothing special. But there was something off about it.

"Hold up lads, you hear that?" He whispered.

"No, what it is?"

Mills pointed toward the door and mouthed the word, 'inside' at his comrades. They nodded and set a breaching charge on the door, waiting to storm the room and kill whatever was inside.

Blam!

The door blasted into the room and the Brits rushed in, filling the walls with pock marks from their assault rifles.

"Cease firing!" Said the captain.

Just as Mills had expected, a small contingent of changelings had set up a command post in the small room.

"Good job private. Carlyle, fill those windows and pick off any changelings you see defending that square." Ordered the captain.

"Yes sir!"

The British snipers lined the window panes and, with the utmost precision, began efficiently blowing holes through any changeling's head that dared reveal itself.

Down below, Ross and the Germans slowly advanced across the destroyed town square.

"Unterdrücken diese Wechselbälger!" Yelled major Ackart.

"Keep moving! They gotta give up soon!" Yelled Lance Corporal Childers.

Ross scrambled over a small brick wall and ducked behind a splintered wagon. He leaned over to corporal Rossetti and hailed him.

"Rossetti! Put an AT-4 round on that parliament building!" Said Ross.

"Aye skip!"

Rossetti leveled the weapon on his shoulder and fired.

'Boom'

A large hole opened up in the building, exposing several frantic soldiers. In a mass panic, the entire garrison routed to the left out of town.

Straight into the waiting lances of Applejack and Rainbow Dash.

"We got 'em now!" Shouted Rainbow.

The retreating changelings rammed right into the wall of spears, a select few managing to get by, not even bothering to engage.

"Woohoo! We did it!" Shouted Sgt. Cumberland.

The remaining Equestrians got up and cheered. German, British, American, and pony alike happily embraced one another.

The battle for Baltimare was over.

_________________________________________________

Baltimare outskirts 2:34 PM

"Yes sir. We have retaken the city." Said Ross, speaking to general Taylor through his radio.

Outside, the soldiers rejoiced and started rounding up supplies, enemy intelligence, and ammunition.

And prisoners.

"Where do you think your going?" Said private Francis, throwing a changeling back in line.

Up ahead, Lance corporal Childers, Yellow Star, and a few other troops manned a checkpoint guarding the way out of town. Childers waved them down and walked up to private Francis.

"Hold up private, I'll take it from here." Said Childers, halting the group and pulling a small group of changelings to the side. He looked at them for a few seconds and then lined them up on the wall.

"Any documents or personal letters?" He asked the first changeling.

It looked confused for moment, then shook his head. Childers continued down the line asking the same question, actually receiving a few journals and letters to god-knows-who.

"Alright, face the wall." Said Childers.

Not knowing what was to become of them, the changelings obediently turned towards the wall of the building.

"Hey Santana, this one goes out to you." Childers said quietly, raising his M4 to his shoulder.

Then he opened fire.

The wall in front of the changelings was splattered with blood and gore while the corporal mercilessly cut them down. The changelings still in line with private Francis stood mortified at the scene unfolding in front of them causing one to make a break for the open fields behind him in an attempt to get away.

"I got this one." Said Yellow Star.

The pony lowered his head and fired his lethal spell. The changeling stumbled for a bit and then fell to the ground.

Direct hit.

"Alright Francis, you go on ahead and bring the rest of these fuckers back to base camp." Said Childers.

The shaken private walked the rest back to the headquarters out of town, certain none would try to escape this time. A couple yards away in his tent, Ross watched Childers execute the changeling prisoners. Through the radio, General Taylor's voice crackled through the headset.

"Ross? You okay, I heard gunfire. What happened?"

Ross considered his words. What Childers had done was completely in violation of the Geneva convention. It was terrible, unruly, and frowned upon by the U.S. military. He needed to report this to General Taylor at once and court-marshall the corporal for his vicious acts.

Ross spoke.

"Nothing sir. Nothing at all."

__________________________________________________

Chapter 7.5

"All the arms we need are for hugging."

-Unknown

Baltimare 4:56 PM

"Mail call!"

After the bloody battle that had ensued only days ago, the occupying Equestrians were granted some much deserved RNR. The post service was commissioned only a few days ago and the eager troops wrote immediately to their loved ones. The humans were permitted to write whatever they wished as long as the letters dictated nothing concerning the specifics on the war they were fighting and after days of earnestly waiting for a return letter the anxious troops were relieved to learn their letters had received replies from numerous family and friends. Private Espinosa sifted through the ranks calling out name after name of any marine that had written a letter and was to receive one in return.

"O'Neil!"

A letter.

"Klein!"

A note and a stack of game-informer magazines.

"Avery!"

Three letters and a parcel containing frozen Hebrew National hot dogs.

This went on for about ten more minutes and all Ross could do was sit and watch. He wrote only one letter and one letter only. He didn't expect to get a reply though. He figured that-

"Ross!"

Ross snapped back to reality and looked up to the blank stare of Daniel Espinosa holding a brown envelope out to him. Sighing, Ross sat up and reached out for the letter.

This oughta be good. Ross thought to himself.

Ross slipped open the letter and read the address it was sent from. His hometown Waleska, Georgia. Arthur Ross came from a well-to-do family living in the foothills of the southern Appalachians. He left for the marines without consent from his father who wanted nothing to do with the military. But Ross saw it as an opportunity to expand his general knowledge and find something to do with his life. Ever since then Ross has had a rather distant relationship with everyone in his family except for one. His thirteen-year-old younger brother Dennis. Dennis had always looked up to Ross as a role model and the perfect older brother and Ross admired him for that. When he was younger, Dennis was always more interested in heading outside with his brother Arthur to go on some crazy adventure which usually ended in hiding in a dumpster or cutting through alleyways and backyards to avoid pissed-off adults. He didn't care though. In the end, he got to hang out with Arthur and that was all that mattered. Whereas their older sister Janice was more interested in boys and texting and their even older brother Billy was into his WWE wrestling video games.

"Anything interesting sir?" Asked Espinosa.

"Why do you care?" Said Ross.

But Espinosa was already up and about passing out more mail. Ross began reading the document, unsure whether he would be happy with it's contents.

Dear Arthur,

I cant tell you how much it sucks around here without you. Dad is still kinda pissed at you for leaving. The same can be said for mom but I don't think Janice or Billy really care. That letter you sent was pretty much tossed aside but I got ahold of it before it could get lost or thrown away. That was some serious black-ops stuff you were writing about and all. Why cant you tell me what's going on over there? Wherever you are. Anyways, I hope you write more. I'll make sure I hang out by the mailbox so I can get your letter first. Don't worry, I can mail them all by myself too. I think you'd be pretty proud of me.

Stay safe,

Dennis

Ross chuckled lightly and set the letter on his lap. He had a new pen-pal and more importantly, something to keep him sane and busy during this godforsaken war. Looking up, he gazed across the small encampment eyeing his fellow allies laughing and reading their own personal post. The British were conversing with some Germans while the ponies sat off to the side receiving their own mail. Shining Armor, Applejack, and the spry one with the rainbow mane huddled in a close group reminiscing about something. Curious, Ross stood up and walked over.

"...and that's when I told him, not a chance feather brain!"

Ross crunched a twig, raising the attention of the three ponies.

"Oh, hey there captain! We was just having a little chat." Said Applejack.

"Take a seat Ross." Said Shining Armor patting the empty space beside him.

"Sounds like a plan to me!"

Ross plopped down on the ground beside Shining Armor and Rainbow Dash and surveyed the group. Shining Armor's cuirass was tarnished and dirty, covered in slash marks and dents. Applejack's Stetson was torn and stained with dark spots. Rainbow Dash's mane was no longer the beautiful, multicolored spectacle it once was. It was now a ruffled mess, dirty beyond all recognition.

In a sense, they looked like marines. Raggedy-ass marines.

"So what brings ya over here captain?" Asked Applejack.

Ross pondered that for a second, thinking of an acceptable answer. He didn't actually have a reason to be in their group. He just looked over and decided to join.

"Well, I cant quite say captain Applejack. I guess your little congregation over here just looked too welcoming to pass up. Most of the guys over there are too scared to talk me being a higher rank and all."

"Well that's a darn shame. If it's conversation yer lookin' fer you'll gladly find it here!" Said Applejack.

"Yeah, unless you think you're to cool for us!" Said Rainbow.

"Heh I don't think-"

"Sir! Colonel Seaton's on the radio with Urgent orders!"

Ross was interrupted by his new first lieutenant. It had now become the division curse, seeing as though the first two bearing the title had been killed serving in the line of duty. Sighing, Ross stood up and followed his comrade to the tent housing the radio. There, he hastily picked up the receiver and answered accordingly.

"Colonel Seaton?"

"Good, Ross. These orders come down from the top. You are to move north towards the capitol city of Canterlot and hold till further orders."

"Yes sir. We'll leave as soon as we're ready."

"Excellent, Seaton out."

After a short pause, Ross faced his lieutenant and spoke.

"Lieutenant Ward, gather the men. We're moving north."

"Where to sir?"

"To war."

____________________________________________________________

Chapter 8

"War! That mad game that the world so loves to play."

-Jonathan Swift

North of Baltimare 4:30 PM

After giving their farewells to the hell-hole that was Baltimare, the troops of the first marine division and Shining Armor's regiment including captain Dash and Applejack marched north to rendezvous with the princesses in the capitol city of Canterlot. Trudging up alongside Ross, Sgt. Avery hailed his old friend and looked at him glumly.

"Hey Artie, you know how long it's gonna take for us to get to...wherever the hell it is we're goin?"

Ross looked up and gave his buddy a blank stare.

"I don't know Dick. Could be a days march in the least. We'll definitely have to stop once or twice. I wouldn't worry about it."

Avery slouched.

"Jeez, this place is pretty far ain't it? These feet have already worked themselves rotten!" He whined.

"Ah, don't fret. Just imagine the place is made of chocolate or something. Ha, that oughta' raise your spirit huh?" Ross chortled, remembering a time in particular when Avery went out of his way to sneak into the officers quarters and yoink the double-chocolate chunk cake that those prissy bastards had been saving for themselves.

"Asshole." Avery smirked and fell back in line.

Near the rear, Vincent Rossetti marched alongside his comrades with a tired look adorning his face. He had been promoted since the last battle after indirectly causing the mass route of the changeling army defending Baltimare. Even with the extra stripe and his lucky baseball signed by R.A. Dickey sent to him by his kid-brother, they couldn't stop the aching in his legs from the constant marching that had taken place for the past four hours with no breaks whatsoever.

"Boy I sure am starting to miss those Humvees." Spoke Sergeant Rossetti.

The marines nostalgically nodded their heads in agreement while the ponies looked up in confusion.

"What's a Hum-vee?" Asked Rainbow Dash.

Private Hamilton grinned at the pony and spoke whole heartedly.

"Only the best thing invented since toilet paper!" He exclaimed.

The men laughed while the ponies shook their heads, at a loss for the vehicle in question.

"Lets just say we would probably be there by now if we had 'em." Said Childers.

The army continued the march for about three more hours taunting the unforgiving heat of the sun. Applejack and Rainbow Dash trotted silently next to one another enjoying the company of the silence that had befallen them after the grizzly action at Baltimare. Aware of each others deeds, heroic or not, the two friends had strengthened the bond they had forged since that fateful day in the Everfree forest facing Nightmare Moon. There would now be a solemn respect between the two knowing that they were now sisters-in-arms.

"Jeez, where the hell is this damn place anyway!" Complained Corporal Wilcox.

Shining Armor's new second in command, Summer Haze, perked up and spoke enthusiastically.

"Not too far from here actually. Just you wait, it's the most vibrant city you've ever seen! The streets are paved with the shiniest marble and the cobblestone buildings are breathtaking!" She explained.

"You seem to know quite a bit about this place. You hail from there or something?" Asked Private Church.

"Yeah, I was foaled there, but we moved out west when I turned five. I still remember the ice cream store my dad would take me to. We'd sit out on the curb and tell each other jokes. Heh, I'd get chocolate and he'd get cotton candy."

Summer Haze had lost herself in fond memories of her childhood with her family. Now she'd be able to see them again once she arrived.

"Damn, I didn't know we were having a meet n' greet. Salutations. My name's Howard Buchanan. My feet hurt and I ripped a fart about five minutes ago listening to miss sunshine over here tell us about happiness and gumdrops." Said Corporal Buchanan.

Smack

"Ow! What the hell?" Cried Buchanan

"Shut up Howie." Said Sergeant Rossetti.

"C'mon, I was just havin' a little fu-"

Buchanan rammed face-first into the backside of Sergeant Avery.

"Hey! What gives?" He asked.

The entire column had stopped. Up front, Ross and Shining Armor eyed the small encampment below. Crude cabins and tents had been built on the bluff below them. Ponies milled around, performing mundane tasks to kill time.

"What do you think? We goin' down there skip?" Asked Avery.

Ross shrugged.

"Don't know. What do you think captain?" Ross asked Shining Armor.

"Well, we need to make camp anyways. We'll stay here for the night, rest up, and leave early in the morning to make up for lost time. Sound good?" Said Shining Armor.

"You bet. I'm sure they wont mind sheltering the guys fighting for them huh?" Added Avery.

Ross nodded. They had come to the conclusion that the settlement down below was a refugee camp and that the inhabitants wouldn't mind sharing the place for a night.

"We goin' down there?" Asked Applejack trotting up accompanied by Rainbow Dash.

"Yeah. We're going to camp here tonight with those refugees. Maybe fill up on some rations if they have to spare. We'll only be here a day though so enjoy it while you can." Said Ross.

"Heck yeah, real beds!" Exclaimed Rainbow Dash.

Nodding, Shining Armor hadn't realized how long it had been since he had slept in an actual bed let alone his deluxe king size one at home with Cadence.

Cadence.

Shining Armor hadn't seen his beloved wife in a long time. He longed to nuzzle her beautiful mane. His sister was in Canterlot as well. Once there, he would cherish every second he had with the two for as long as he could. He could spend every waking moment-

"You coming captain?" Asked Summer Haze.

"Yes lieutenant, I'll be right there." Shining Armor said, snapping back to reality.

Halfway down the ridge the first thing the refugees could see were the tired humans trudging down the hill followed by the exhausted ponies trotting close behind. upon entering the camp, the town ponies gawked at the sight in front of them. Not only was this the first time they had laid eyes on human soldiers, but to see them in their current state was simply horrendous. Not to mention the condition of the guard ponies following them in. An equally overworked grey mare with a ruffled white mane came galloping over to the soldiers immediately addressing the already well known pony captain.

"Oh my Celestia, Captain are you and your guards okay?!" She asked.

"Heh, we're okay Mrs. Mayor, just a little beat up that's all." Chuckled Shining Armor.

Without hesitation, Mrs. Mayor glanced over at the accompanying human in torn, ragged clothing.

"Are you okay too commander? Would you and your.. uh... men like to rest here for a while? Catch your breath perhaps?" she asked with a look of pure concern, disregarding the fact that she was staring at a creature completely alien to her.

Ross smiled and spoke appreciatively.

"Thank you ma'am. We were actually looking to spend the night and rest up for tomorrow's march. We wont be a burden will we?" Ross asked.

"Of course not commander, take as much time as you need." She said with much respect.

"Please ma'am, just call me Ross. Or Captain. Whichever suits you best." Ross said.

The mayor nodded and Shining Armor cleared his throat, getting the attention of the two.

"Where exactly are we Mrs. Mayor?" He asked.

"Why, you're in the Ponyville refugee camp of course." She explained.

Ross and Shining Armor took in that information. Ponyville refugees. Ponyville was where the war had began for the two companies and where a lot of good friends had fallen.

"Oh my, is that Applejack and Rainbow Dash?" She said peering around the two captains.

"Yes ma'am. That would be them. Why ask?" Said Shining Armor.

"Well, they have some very anxious ponies that have been looking for the-"

"APPLEJACK!"

A high voice emanated from the crowd of gathering ponies as three distinct fillies galloped past the mayor and into the column of soldiers.

Applejack looked at the voice calling her and immediately broke down into tears.

"A..Applebloom?" Applejack croaked.

The small filly bounded into her older sister, bawling her eyes out. Behind her, a green coated mare trotted up as quickly as she could and hugged Applejack as tight as her old forelimbs could squeeze.

"Land-sakes girl, where in tarnation have you been?" Granny Smith asked through tears.

"Way too far away from home granny. It ain't Sweet Apple Acres, but It'll do." Applejack cried, returning the hug.

Sweetie Belle was too busy eyeing the humans to take much interest in the ponies but Scootaloo had her own destination.

One rainbow-maned Pegasus.

"RAINBOW!" She cried.

Surprised, Rainbow Dash caught the hovering filly in her forelimbs and stared in shock at her burrowing her head into her chest. She really meant a lot to Scootaloo. The fan club, the stalking, the idolizing. To think it took a war to make Rainbow realize this made her feel like the most self-centered pony in the world. Deeply, she returned the hug and spoke gently.

"Hey kid, how you hangin' in there?"

Scootaloo looked up and smiled.

"Better now that you're here." Said Scootaloo.

The rest of the soldiers stopped and, for the slightest moment, all that existed were the heartfelt embraces taking place in the center of the camp. No one spoke until the townsfolk trotted up to the guard ponies asking about the war, completely bypassing the marines. Sergeant Avery noticed this and frowned.

"What are we chopped liver?"

The only heads that turned were the humans, including Ross and Shining Armor who realized what was happening. To the townsfolk, humans were still frightening monsters new to their world. They flinched at the sight of normal people let alone the dirty marines that stood before them now. Two distinct groups had formed by now, one side with ponies and the other with marines. The men had cleared the crowd when the ponies swamped the guards asking about friends and family in Baltimare and Ponyville. Disappointed, the marines shambled off towards the residential area of the camp, looking for a decent place to spend the night.

The Ponyville refugee camp 8:32 PM

The warm flame crackled in the welcoming fireplace near cabin three-plot sixteen. Lieutenant Preston Ward sat near his buddies reminiscing about days of old before the war.

"I worked at a textile mill before I joined the corps. Family business and all. Wasn't for me though." Said Ward.

"No way? My older brother works in the clothing business!" Spoke Summer Haze.

The ponies and humans snickered at the humor in that.

"Seriously? Your older brother sews dresses while you do the fighting?" Smirked Sergeant Romero.

"Heh, yeah I guess so. My mom and dad hated the idea of it. As soon as we were attacked I signed right up. They weren't too happy about that one." Summer Haze said, gazing solemnly into the fire pit.

"Aw, don't feel bad. After 9/11, me and Marty over here signed up as soon as we were old enough!" Said Private McCoy.

"9/11?" Asked a pony.

The humans in the group all lowered their heads in respect.

"Fuckin' bastards. Lost my dad that day when the north tower fell." Said Corporal Martin.

"What we're trying to say is, it was a pretty bad day. And that's a big understatement." Said Ward.

It was quiet for bit until the alarming ring of the dinner bell startled the quiet company of soldiers. Long lines formed near tables giving out soup mixed with the most rudimentary of ingredients. Everyone anxiously gathered in line, especially the troops who hadn't eaten since that morning.

"Man, are you guys hungry or what?"

"Hey, quit pushing!"

"Would it kill 'em to season this stuff?"

Despite the less than culinary food displayed in front of them, most of the marines were thankful for the hot meal and ate heartily. Applejack and Rainbow had just received their soup and were choosing a place to sit for their dinner. Naturally, most of the veteran ponies sat with their human comrades while most of the townsfolk avoided them altogether. War was a new concept to most of these ponies and the fact that these new visitors were no strangers to the idea was rather frightening.

Save three ecstatic fillies.

"Hey Applejack, can we sit with your human friends?" Asked Applebloom.

Applejack glanced over at her allies sitting in old picnic tables talking up a storm and spinning yarns that most of the troops found hilarious and heart-warming in this time of great sorrow and sacrifice. She had truly grown onto her new friends. Maybe even more so than her mare-friends back home in Ponyville. She sat on that thought for a moment. She felt that those battle-hardened killers eating only a few yards away from her knew her better than Twilight or anypony else for that matter.

"Sure sis. Comin' Rainbow?" Said Applejack.

"Yeah hold on Applejack! C'mon Scootaloo you gotta meet this one guy. He says his brother is a 'pilot' and totally knows his way around flying. This one time..."

Rainbow Dash's voice trailed off in the distance as she led the young Pegasus towards another table.

"Well girls, looks like it's just the three of us." Said Applejack as she trotted over to the table, tray in mouth.

The three trotted over to the table, getting the attention of the rowdy soldiers.

"Well look who it is! Looks like the cowpony has graced us with her presence guys!" Said Corporal Wilcox.

The marines and ponies laughed and inched over, making room for Applejack.

"What's this? Looks like we have some visitors!" Noted Ward.

Sweetie Belle and Applebloom nervously kicked the ground with their hooves, slightly regretting their decision to sit with these soldiers.

"Yep. This here's mah' sister Applebloom and her friend Sweetie Belle." Said Applejack.

"Hi..."

"H..hello..."

They both replied sheepishly.

The troops looked at eachother and started laughing.

"C'mon, don't be shy! Hey Jacobs, scoot over and let the girls in!" Said Yellowstar.

Smiling, Jacobs inched over and welcomingly patted the empty space next to him. The two fillies quickly filled the empty space and inspected each soldier carefully. Applejack's mane was tangled and no longer in it's original style. It dangled messily under her dusty, stained Stetson. Her fur was dirty and missing small patches of fur where there were clearly visible battle scars.

"Wow Applejack. What happened to you?" Asked Sweetie Belle.

Applejack could only give Sweetie the same answer they all did when somepony asked them.

"This war happened." She said dismally.

The one known as Jacobs had a long scar running from his eye down to his upper lip.

"What gave you that shiner?" Asked Applebloom.

Jacobs laughed and leaned in close to the table, prompting everyone else to do so as well. He put on his best storyteller face and began speaking in a dramatic, low tone.

"It happened back in Baltimare. I was up in a bell tower with my spotter taking potshots with the M40 at changelings moving in the rubble when I heard a low growl behind me! It was a changeling bruiser! You know, the big ones that really like to pound you into dust. He jumped me and my buddy and slashed me right in the eye! I fell back, and just when I thought I was gonna buy the farm, my spotter wacked him on the back of the head with the butt of his rifle. Now, I don't know if It fazed him at all but it sure did piss him off! He turned on my friend and pinned him to the ground. Right before he got his face crushed in I jumped up, and with every last ounce of strength I had left, pushed that brute right off the tower. KER-SPLAT!" He explained.

"COOL!" Both fillies shouted, surprising most of the soldiers at the table.

"Did it hurt?" Asked Applebloom.

Jacobs snorted and replied brashly.

"Nope. Not one bit."

At the other end of the table, Private Carmichael snorted and spoke under his breath.

"Hmph. Showoff." He smirked, taking a swig of soup from his near-empty bowl.

"Oh yeah? I'd like to see you tell a better story!" Said Jacobs.

"Ha! That's all that is. A story. You wanna know how this joker REALLY got that?" Said Carmichael.

Jacobs began subtly shaking his head and desperately waving his hands.

"AFTER the battle, he was carrying a sack of potatoes to division headquarters when he tripped and fell. This nincompoop almost took his eye out on a fencepost." Carmichael chortled.

Everyone stifled a laugh at the private's explanation, causing Jacobs to go back to eating his soup and mutter profane words under his breath.

Ponyville refugee camp 11:46 PM

Rainbow Dash and Applejack had chosen to share a tent on the southern side of the camp. Unpacking their bivouacking gear, the two had conversed about the days events leading up to now.

"So, how's your sister?" Asked Rainbow.

"She's doin' great. So's Granny Smith." Applejack said, unfurling her blanket.

"Hey, you know who I didn't see though? Where's your brother, Big Mac?"

Applejack sighed, obviously showing effects of troubling thoughts flowing into her mind.

"He was enlisted into the militia not long after this here camp was formed. He's seeing action outside Appleloosa right now." She said.

Seeing her question had gotten a little personal, Rainbow tried to change the subject.

"Wow, kinda sucks we don't get beds, huh?" She complained.

"Heh, yeah. The refugees need those though." Said Appleajck.

They both simultaneously yawned and, after a quick laugh, realized it was getting late and they would have to get to sleep if they wanted to be energized for tomorrow's march to Canterlot.

"Well, G'night."

"Good night."

The lamp was doused and snoring soon filled the entire plot of tents as the soldiers of Equestria slept soundly, unaware of the events to come.

Canterlot 2:34 PM

With news of Shining Armor's ponies and the incoming arrival of the United States marines, the whole city was overtaken with a surge of relief. More soldiers meant more protection for their families and friends. Meanwhile, the occupying Russians had sandbagged the entire outer walls covering every inch of exposed area with barbed wire and defensive barricades. Impressive checkpoints had been set up all over the city outskirts adorned with large machine gun posts and guard towers. To the passing ponies, these new weapons were both frightening and exciting, showcasing the might of Equestria and her allies to all foreign passerbys.

The only downside were the Russians themselves.

"Привет Дмитрий, посмотрите на пони говорить!" Said a Russian grenadier casually strolling up to a fruit stand and snatching a golden delicious apple off the cart.

"Hey! You have to pay for that you hooligans!" Said an uptight vendor dressed in classy clothing.

"Пошел на хуй пони." Replied the man, walking off and taking a particularly large bite from the apple.

"Humph! Riff Raff!" Shouted the defeated vendor.

Grefreiter Pyotr Orlovsky watched from a distance and shook his head at the despicable display of power abuse within the ranks of his own military. He was a soldier of Russia, not a thieving mercenary. Feeling pity for the vendor, Pyotr approached the wronged pony and reached in his pocket for the 'bits' he had picked up off the ground in the past few days.

"Oh no, please don't steal from me! I-I'll call the guard!" The panicked pony cried.

"Relax, I'm not going to take anything from you." Pyotr said, handing the jingling coins to the vendor.

"Oh! Well, thank you kind sir. Nice to see some of you humans know some manners. And such fine linguistics! Where did you learn to speak such good Equestrian? All I hear day-in-day-out is that foreign jargon you and your comrades insist on blabbering. No offense." The pony said.

"Heh, none taken. I know nothing of 'Equestrian', but my father insisted I learn English. Turns out those online classes actually paid off huh?" Chuckled Pyotr.

"Well, regardless of whatever an 'online' class is, you have done me a great kindness and shall be repaid as such!" The vendor smiled, hoofing the man a shiny granny smith.

"Thank you, but I cant." Admitted Pyotr.

"Oh, but I insist!"

Pyotr briefly showed the vendor his tongue, a large crack running down the middle.

"I have a geographic tongue. Citric fruits cause my mouth to swell." Admitted Pyotr.

The vendor frowned and placed the apple back in the cart.

"Well, I am sorry I cannot provide you with proper thanks but if it suits you, me and wife would love to have you over for dinner at our house!" Said the vendor.

Considering the offer, Pyotr nodded emphatically. It would definitely be a convenient change from the usual annoyances with his comrades in the company mess hall.

"Great! We shall meet at the corner of Long and Birdwell street at seven. It's the blue house, you cant miss it." Explained the pony.

"Sounds great. It's Pyotr by the way. Pyotr Orlovsky. My name that is." He said, sticking out a hand.

"Nice to meet you. The name's Orion Sparkle!"

The two shook appendages and parted ways, too unmindful of the army forming a mile outside the city defenses.

Canterlot 7:03 PM

The corner of Long and Birdwell was especially busy at this time of night, a large strip mall lying on the adjacent street. Pyotr jogged down the sidewalk looking for a particular pony with the light blue coat. Sure enough, he stood in front of the blue house with a mare carrying grocery bags and mindfully checking the crowds.

"Oh, There he is Dawn!" Orion said.

Pyotr smiled and approached the couple. The mare, obviously intimidated by his tall stature, moved behind Orion and gave a nervous smile.

"Hello, you must be, uh.. Peter?" The mare said.

"Pyotr." Orion corrected.

"Pleased to meet you ma'am. Thank you for having me." Said Pyotr.

"Pyotr, this is my wife Dawn." He said, showcasing his shy partner.

Pyotr knelt down and smiled at the flinching mare.

"Here, why don't I help you with those groceries." He said, reaching for the bags.

Now less daunted by the human, Dawn Sparkle levitated him the bags and spoke happily.

"My my, what a gentlecolt!"

Pyotr stood up and beckoned for them to lead on, but Orion persisted.

"Heh, not just yet Pyotr, we're still waiting on my daughter. Oh, there she is now! She'll be having her friends over as well." He said.

Leaving the shopping mall were four mares, all different colors and conversing about the days events. After waiting for a guard patrol to pass by, they began walking toward the couple and waved happily.

That is, until they saw Pyotr.

"Um, dad? Who is this?" Asked the purple mare.

"Twilight, this is Pyotr Orlovsky. He'll be staying for dinner as well. I owe him after all for doing me a kindness I have yet to repay." Said Orion.

"C'mon you slowpokes, we can't carry these groceries forever y'know!" Said Dawn Sparkle.

Inside, the table was set and Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy sat down to eat with Twilight's parents.

"Sorry it's not much. Money has been tight lately, that's why I was out selling fruit from the garden out back." Apologized Orion.

The first few minutes of dinner consisted of a lot of awkward staring (especially from Pinkie) and involuntary slurping of the mushroom stew being served. Finally, Dawn was able to break the silence.

"So Pyotr, where are you from?" She said, not looking up from her soup.

"I hail from Leningrad. When I was a child, the apartment block I lived in was stricken with poverty. I lost my mother to influenza when I was fourteen. For a while, it was my father sustaining me and my sister until I got a job in a shoe factory. It was tough work but eventually I grew old enough to get out and make a name for myself. I figured what better way to do that than to find a career in the military." Pyotr explained.

It was silent for a while, everypony soaking in the story that Pyotr so easily recounted.

"That's..that's so sad." Fluttershy said, tears forming in her eyes.

Everypony else nodded in solemn agreement.

"Oh please! Don't get so upset on my behalf. Things are much better now that-"

BOOM!

"What was that?" Asked Rarity.

Shouting could be heard in the streets as Russians and guard ponies flew down the sidewalks toward the main barricades at the main gate. General Leonev sprinted through the streets shouting orders.

"Для стен! To the walls!"

Pyotr stood up, slinging his AK-47 strap around his shoulder and switching off the safety, and headed for the front door.

"I need to go! Stay indoors unless someone tells you otherwise!' He ordered.

The serious, concerned glare they received from Pyotr was enough to make them freeze at their seats. In a flash, Pyotr was out the door and following his comrades towards the impending chaos at the outer walls.

Chapter 9

"Sometimes I think it should be a rule of war that you have to see somebody up close and get to know him before you can shoot him."

-Colonel Potter

(Authors note- When the Russians are speaking to one another, they are speaking Russian.)

Canterlot 7:18 PM

Weaving their way through the streets, the Russian soldiers found themselves under fire from large plasma shots hailing down from the sky. The guard ponies galloped and flew alongside them, matching the speed of the fastest light tank. Pyotr Orlovsky was sprinting down a street in the midst of B company and elements of D company.

"Orlovsky! Malashenko! When we get down there, man the machine gun positioned on top of the north rampart! B company will provide fire support!" Shouted General Leonev.

Halfway down the street, Pyotr and Grefreiter Malashenko were blown to the ground, a large plasma burst decimating the shop closest to them.

"Get up Dmitri! Get up!" Yelled Pyotr, heaving his squad mate to his feet and beckoning him forth.

The two quickly made their way into the chaos that surrounded the outer walls. The causeway that led to the top of the walls was brimming with Russians, guards, and civilians trying to get on or off the ramparts.

"Oh Celestia, they'll kill us all!" Shouted a frantic stallion.

The air was rank with panic and fear. Ponies jostled each other away from the walls, trampling those unfortunate enough to fall to the cobblestone ground. Pyotr was stuck in the middle of a maelstrom of trepidation and hysteria. Nearby a mare shushed her crying foal, the wails of the baby rising above the din of the frenzied crowd. Suddenly, a bright green flash eclipsed the mare and the ponies around her, leaving only ashes in it's wake. Traumatized, Pyotr could only stand there and gaze at the remains of the innocents that had just been brutally annihilated.

"Come on Orlovsky, we have a gun to man!" Yelled Malashenko.

Racing up the causeway, Pyotr was horrified at the sight that stretched out before him when he reached the top of the wall. Stretching at least a mile across and back, an unimaginably large changeling army completely covered the plains in front of the besieged city of Canterlot. He got an eerie feeling thinking about the thousands of changelings below staring at the now-burning city, hell-bent on killing every last thing that inhabited the houses and apartments that dotted the streets. Snapping back to his senses, Pyotr found Dmitri loading the DSHK machine gun and prepping it to fire.

"Pyotr, get on the gun!" He shouted.

Gripping the trigger, Pyotr could only stare at the mass of darkness that enveloped the fields in front of him. Down below, B company took up positions outside the gate and began viciously returning fire. The changelings however, no strangers to the fanatic doctrine of the queen, ignored the barrage of lead and continued on.

"Pyotr! Anytime now!" Said Dmitri, firing his AK-47 in quick bursts.

"Eat this you changeling bastards!" Orlovsky cursed as he pulled the trigger.

The bombardment of fire from his machine gun was never-ending as Pyotr continued to fell changeling after changeling, not even blinking when one of his bullets tore off a foreleg or blasted a head into bits.

"Dear god, They're getting through!" Cried a Russian.

And true to his word, the changeling hordes had breached the lower gate defenses and began pouring into the city, murdering everything in their path. Men, stallion, mare, colt, filly, foal.

None were spared.

Changeling's were getting airborne and reaching the walls, overwhelming the parapet and killing anyone close enough. One poor man was snagged by a changeling and thrown over the side. Another was picked up by four and ripped apart in one clean tug.

"Damn it! Pyotr, this position is lost! Pull back to the residential areas and tell the civilians to get the hell out! They're about to be caught in the middle of a firefight!"

"Got it! Wait, what about you?" Asked Pyotr.

"I'll stay and keep them busy! There's still one Russian that draws breath up on this wall, and he's got a big-ass machine gun!" Laughed Malashenko.

Pyotr gave the suicidal man a respectful nod and turned around, hauling ass down the flights of stairs. Down below, Russian, changeling, and pony were engaged in ferocious close quarters combat. The fighting at the main gate gave Pyotr just enough time to slip by and make a break for an alleyway leading to the civilian's district.

"Die human scum!" Shouted a changeling officer, lance ready to pierce Pyotr's neck.

Without hesitating, Pyotr lifted his AK and put 2 bullets in the berserk creature. One in the chest and one in the head.

"Stupid thing." He said before turning around and heading down the street, ready to oust any civilians still taking refuge in their homes.

Especially one particular blue house on the corner of Long and Birdwell street.

Canterlot Castle 7:47 PM

"We need to get all the civilians out and into the chambers under the castle where they will be safe!" Shouted Princess Celestia.

"Agreed sister. I shall rally the troops and do so now." Said Luna.

"No. Send them to the outer walls to hold off the advancing changelings. General Taylor!" Shouted Celestia.

"Yes princess?"

"Radio Leonev's men. Tell them to get the civilians out of their homes and rally here."

"They're already on it ma'am. Most of the civilians are already here!" Taylor said.

"Good. Luna!" Shouted Celestia.

"Yes?"

"Where is Cadence?"

Princess Cadence hadn't left her room since Shining Armor went off to war and had been pent up in there for a long time, receiving breakfast, lunch, and dinner through a magic teleportation delivery system.

"She's still in her room. Her nursemaids have been trying to urge her out to no avail." Said Luna.

"Well tell her to get her flank moving or I'll come up and move it myself! And get me Twilight and the elements!"

"Yes sister!" Said Luna, galloping out of the throne room.

Celestia turned and looked out a nearby window. She could only stare in disbelief at the city burning below her.

"We'll need everyone we can get..."

Canterlot 7:51 PM

"Come on feet, don't fail me now!" Pyotr yelled to himself as he raced along the financial district. The residential area was just around the corner. He could feel it. Reading the street signs, he was able to navigate his way to the neighborhoods. Rounding a wall, Orlovsky was ready for the largest, most panicked crowd in existence.

Instead, not a single soul was to be seen on the sidewalks. Pyotr approached the first house and rapped on the door.

"Anyone here? You need to leave now and get to the castle!"

No response. As with almost every other house on the block, the houses were practically empty. Every now and then Pyotr would come across a family with a stubborn elder refusing to move or an orphan lying in the shadows but the homes were mostly deserted for as far as he was concerned. With the entire street cleared and all the civilians successfully evacuated, all that was left was the blue house on the far corner.

"No no no no no..." Fluttershy kept repeating to herself as a distressed Rarity calmly comforted her.

"Geez, this place could use some fun!" Said Pinkie, pulling out her party cannon and firing it.

"For the love of Celestia I don't think now is the time for that Pinkie." Said Rarity.

The party pony gazed at her friend with an appalled look.

"Are you kidding? There's always time for a party!"

Ignoring the streamers and confetti that now covered the room, Dawn and Orion Sparkle looked out their window at the abandoned homes. Dawn saw the uneasy look on Twilights face and placed a hoof on her daughters shoulder.

"Maybe we should get going honey? All those ponies earlier left in quite a hurry." She said.

"I don't know mom. Pyotr said-"

BLAM!

The door burst open and a shaken, dirty Russian stepped through. Huffing, he spoke in a concerned voice.

"Why are you not at the castle? This whole place is about to become a combat zone!" Yelled Pyotr.

All the ponies looked up and froze. The surprise entrance of the human was frightening but the idea that their peaceful neighborhood was about to become a warzone was enough to give them chills.

"What are you all standing there for? Come on, I'm trying to help you out here!" Yelled Pyotr.

"Alright alright, hold on I have to get my things. There are some items upstairs that have great sentimental value to them." Said Orion.

"No time! We need to go! Now!"

SMASH!

Everyone turned to look at the now-shattered window in the living room and saw a horrifying sight. Two changeling soldiers had crashed through the window and stared at the ponies with a bloodthirsty visage. Twilight smirked. She could showcase her impressive power to her friends, family and the human all at once. First she would subdue them with a shield, then tie them up with magically conjured ropes and wait till after the battle to display them to Celestia and get praise for such a wonderful job of protecting her group.

"Stand back everyone, I'll-"

Twilight was cut off by the sight of Pyotr moving in front of them with lightning speed. Without thinking, he emptied 12 rounds into the first changeling, spraying blood and gore all over the walls, floor and ceiling. He aimed at the second and pulled the trigger but his gun jammed, giving the changeling time to tackle him to the ground. The two rolled around, grunting and attacking one another until Pyotr pushed the changeling off him. Doing this gave him just enough time to draw his knife.

He charged.

With a ferocious snarl, Pyotr jumped on top of the changeling and brought the knife down on it.

Again...

And again...

And again...

Shunk, shunk, shunk, shunk.

The group looked on in horror the entire time. What was once the changeling regular was now an unrecognizable bloody pulp scattered about on the ground. It's partner's insides were leaking out of the holes in it's flesh a few feet away. Pyotr stood up, covered by bodily fluids and sinews, and picked up his AK-47.

"Come on! We have to move!"

The traumatized ponies quickly walked around the corpses and headed outside towards the castle and safety.

Fields beyond Canterlot 8:01 PM

Ross, Shining Armor, and the rest of the soldiers were relieved that the safe haven of Canterlot was finally in sight.

Well, metaphorically that is.

They knew they grew closer with every step and that in the end, it would all pay off with hot meals and warm beds. They had been marching for hours and the idea that they were that much closer to their goal made them move ever so faster.

"Thank god we're almost there huh sir?" Said Avery.

"You got that right Richard. Hey Shining, how much farther? Captain?" Asked Ross.

But Shining Armor had no words for what was playing out in front of his eyes at that moment. Slowly, one by one, every soldier had stopped at the top of the hill and gawked at the sight in front of them.

The glorious capitol city of Canterlot was burning.

Neither Applejack nor Rainbow Dash could believe what they were seeing.

A large, black moving mass lay in front of the besieged city. For a moment, no one out of all the soldiers spoke. Snapping back to his senses, Ross ordered the men forward.

"EVERYONE MOVE OUT! Ward, take your men left and destroy that siege camp! I'll go right and clear the city! Captain?"

"Cadence." Was all the pony captain could utter before charging towards the army of changelings.

"God dammit!" Said Ross as he followed his pony counterpart into what could very well be their own impending doom.

Running left, Ward cleared the tree line with the rest of his men while Sergeant Courtland set up his mortars to assist.

"Jacobs, get to it!" Said Ward speaking into his built-in mic.

Jacobs' voice crackled through his helmet.

"You got it chief."

That was all Ward got before the shots started going off and the changelings in the camp began falling. The marines rushed in, Summer Haze and Applejack leading their ponies into the fray alongside them. M4 clips were emptied and lances were splintered as the unrelenting attack of the Equestrians never ceased. Meanwhile, the changelings were still trying to organize their troops and put up a decent defense. Before they could figure out what was going on, every changeling in the camp was dead to the last. Though frowned upon, the Equestrians gave the wounded no quarter and brutally slaughtered every last one. The entire assault ended almost as soon as it began.

"Yeah! We kicked their asses!" Cheered Lance Corporal Childers.

"Don't let up just yet. We've still got a hell of a fight on our hands!" Said Sgt. Cumberland.

As if on cue, Ross' voice crackled through Ward's headset and spoke frantically.

"WARD! Take your men and reinforce me and Shining Armor's units! We are meeting heavy resistance! I repeat, heavy resistance!"

"I copy! Listen up everyone! Converge on the main force and fight your way into the city! This ends now." Ordered Ward.

Canterlot 8:23 PM

"Retreat!" Ordered a pony captain.

The residential area was now overrun with changelings and the remnants of Russia's B and C companies pulled back across the drawbridge and behind the inner walls. A and D company no longer existed, as they had been wiped out earlier on defending the southern approach. Unicorns and Russian snipers on the battlements gave covering fire to the retreating soldiers as wave after wave of changelings threw themselves at the surviving troops. Inside the castle, everyone was moving around frantically trying to get ahold of the situation. Luna had finally coaxed Cadence out of her room and gotten her to the underground caves where she would be safe. Meanwhile at the castle gates, Pyotr and the group parted ways, leaving Orlovsky to help his fellow comrades in defending the last bastion of safety for the panicked civilians.

"Two mags left!"

"We need a medic over here!"

"Dear Celestia I'm not dying here."

Pyotr had taken up positions with some of his fellow men and a few ponies behind a sandbagged position in front of the closed drawbridge which the changelings were currently battering down. It was only a matter of time before they broke through. Up above on the walls, the airborne changelings gave a repeat performance of what had happened at the outer ramparts. This time, Celestia's royal guards were assisting in the defense of the parapets and fought ferociously. General Leonev Drew his Nagant revolver and loaded it. He rallied behind the troops, no fear showing on his face, and spoke.

"Soldiers! Comrades! We stand here today not as combatants from different countries but as brothers and sisters in arms! We cannot allow these changeling dogs to break through or the safety of your friends and families will be compromised! We few brave souls holding this courtyard will defend it to the last! I'm sure our comrades up above shall do the same! No matter what comes through that gate you will hold your-"

The drawbridge smashed into pieces sending splinters of wood flying towards the troops, one in particular hurling forth and tearing Leonev's head off with sickening ease.

"Open fire!" Yelled Pyotr.

The changelings that poured into the courtyard were thrown back with a deafening amount of fire but they charged headlong toward the entrenched positions anyway.

"Shit, I'm out!" Yelled Pyotr.

"Here! Last mag, make it count!" Said Sergeant Malenkov.

Emptying the clip with fierce accuracy and discipline, Pyotr dropped his AK. With his right hand he drew his knife. With his left he pulled out a picture of his mother. Bracing himself, he prepared for hell.

"I'm ready. Take me."

Canterlot 8:30 PM

For Ross' and Shining Armor's soldiers, clearing the fields was easy once Ward and Summer Haze rejoined the unit as most of the invading changelings had already entered the city. This resulted in fierce urban firefights liberating pinned down Russian forces and freeing captured prisoners.

"Ward, status report!" Said Ross.

"Residential area had been cleared and all Russian and pony squads have been rescued. All that's left is the castle district skip."

Ross looked at Shining Armor awaiting approval to move on to the final district. He wore an entirely serious look on his face and had not spoken much during the battle.

Then again, who else isn't serious when entering a combat zone?

"We move on the castle. I'm going to find my wife." Said a determined Shining Armor.

Ross rallied the men and spoke.

"You heard the man- err, pony! Let's move!" He ordered.

The army snaked through the rest of the district clearing out pockets of resistance on the way to the real prize.

Canterlot castle.

"C'mon! Check those corners!" Said Sergeant Rossetti.

"Ah hope Twilight and the others are okay." Said Applejack.

"That makes two of us." Rainbow Agreed.

Forward elements of the reinforcing army came across the gate leading into the castle courtyard and stopped dead in their tracks. The walls were completely overrun, every last guard and human on the ramparts and parapets apparently dead. The courtyard was brimming with changelings trying to push their way in towards something.

"Open Fire!" Yelled Ross.

For Ross, Shining Armor, and the others, the next five minutes was a blur. Upon noticing the large changeling force attacking the castle, the reinforcing Equestrians opened fire. This drew the changeling's attention, which resulted in a frenzied charge on their behalf. It was a classic turkey shoot. The humans and unicorns gunned down the changelings as they threw themselves at the superior force. When the last shot was fired, a mound of corpses stacked twelve feet high was sitting in front of the remaining Equestrians.

"Go go go! Clear that courtyard!" Shouted Ross as he and Shining Armor took point and ran blindly into the now-empty courtyard.

Shining Armor skidded to a stop, the sight laid out in front of him too much to bear. Dead bodies were everywhere and though he had already gotten used to the prospect of a corpse, the manner in which these were all killed was the direct meaning of overkill.

"Dear god..." Said Sergeant Courtland.

"Wait. What's that?" Asked Summer Haze.

In the direction of her pointing hoof, everyone saw a wavering figure completely covered in blood. It had occurred to them that everything in the courtyard was dead when they had arrived except for the human form that staggered in front of them. The human carried a knife in one hand while his other hand was balled up in a fist, a crumpled piece of paper held inside. It breathed quick, short breaths and stared at them with wild eyes.

Then it collapsed.

"Jesus, Ward! Get a medic and secure that man! Everyone else, sweep the castle and make sure everyone's all right!" Ordered Ross.

Ward and a company corpsman, Corporal Roe, approached the man and began treating his wounds.

"Put pressure on that wound. Hold that until I can bandage him up. He needs to stay awake, talk to him or something!" Said Roe.

"Uhhh... can you hear me? You're going to be okay." Said Ward.

He couldn't possibly believe that. The poor man's body was broken. Lacerations and gashes covered his entire form. The fact that he was able to stand as long as he did when they entered the courtyard was unbelievable.

"....Мать?" Said the man.

Then he went limp.

"God dammit!" Said the medic, striking the ground with a fist.

Seeing no further use of his skills here, Roe left to tend more wounded.

"Mother."

Ward spun around, startled by the new voice.

"Huh?"

"He said mother. That was his last words." Said the Russian.

"Oh, you know him?" Said Ward, turning back to the body.

"Pyotr Orlovsky. That was his name."

Across the courtyard, Corporal Wilcox spoke up.

"You okay sir?"

"Yeah, I'm fine."

"Okay. Just askin' cause you were kinda talking to yourself for a moment there." Said Wilcox.

"What? I was talking to..."

Upon turning around Ward saw no trace of the man that he had just spoke to. Where there was a pair of legs a few seconds ago, was now just empty space.

"What the... shit, I'm going crazy. I just know it." Ward said quietly to himself as he stood up and entered the castle to help with the sweep.

The staff, civilians, princesses, and remaining guards were found holed up in the underground caves and were grateful to have been rescued, and just in the nick of time too. The only man left defending the courtyard was Pyotr, and he had managed to hold the changelings off long enough till the reinforcements arrived. To avoid the carnage on the outside, the civilians were instructed to remain in the caves until most of the dead were removed from the grounds. Ross was clearing things up with Princess Celestia and Luna when Shining Armor, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash's unit arrived in the caves.

"Girls!" Said Twilight.

The six shared a heartwarming embrace in the center of the cave as a panic stricken Shining Armor entered the main chamber. Swiftly, he approached his aunts and gave them quick embraces but asked them the real question on his mind.

"Cadence?"

All Celestia did was raise a wing in the direction she desired him to look in and sure enough, there was the pink Alicorn being comforted by her attendants. She looked tired and upset. Almost as dreary as she did during her trip to the crystal empire. But that all changed in the next few seconds when she panned her head right.

"Shining..."

She didn't have the breath to finish her sentence. There was her husband standing only a few feet in front of her.

Ross stood across the room, eyeing the couple's joyous reunion and walked over. Shining Armor was nuzzling her wife as she returned the gesture.

"Heh, alright lover boy I hate to be the guy to break up your happy little reunion but we have a lot of dead to clear out by tonight so we better get started."

"Yeah, sure. I've got to go honey. I'll come back as soon as I can." Reassured Shining Armor.

"I know you will." Cadence replied tearfully.

Ross turned his gaze to the pink Alicorn.

"Oh, and while your at it, you ought to thank me for bringing this big lug back here in one piece! Crazy son of a bitch almost got himself killed about five times." Ross grumbled to Cadence as he walked away.

Canterlot 11:56 AM

After a long, sleepless night of clearing the dead and triaging the wounded, command allowed the soldiers to sleep as long as they wanted. They deserved that at least.

"Dang, been a while since I've slept like that!" Said Yellowstar.

"Yeah, same here." Said Private Sunny Breeze.

"Well, rise and shine ladies, we've still got a lot of work to do!" Said Ward.

The soldiers, with the aid of the locals, began the cleanup of the city. Most of the financial district had been destroyed whereas the residential district was mostly covered with bullet pock marks. Lieutenant Ward was told to retrieve Lieutenant Summer Haze for a command briefing that was to be held in the throne room. He had already searched the financial districts so he had moved onto the neighborhoods. Sifting through the destroyed homes, Ward called out for captain Haze.

"Summer? Summer? Captain Haze?" Ward cried to no avail.

That was until he heard the sobbing.

He found her slumped on top of the wreckage of a home that had been completely destroyed. She burrowed her face in her hooves and was silently crying to herself.

"Summer? You okay?" Ward asked.

"M..my parents...my b-brother..." She sobbed.

Upon further inspection, bits of bone and a pale hoof stuck out of the rubble in front of her.

"Summer... oh god..." Ward said as he walked up and put a hand on her shoulder.

"It's alright. Let it all out. Take all the time you need." Ward said as he walked back to the castle.

Canterlot Castle 12:01 PM

Inside the throne room, the remaining commanders gathered around a table and began discussing further plans.

"I say we strengthen the defenses and defend our territory as best as we can." Said an aged pony general.

"No. We need to go on the offensive to prevent another attack like this." Said Ross.

"Humph! Just like you humans to make arrogant choices that just waste lives!" Argued the general.

"You know damn well I care about-"

"SILENCE!" Shouted Luna, abusing the royal Canterlot voice.

The room grew silent as Celestia stepped up.

"Ah, Lieutenant Ward. Glad to see you made it. But where is Lieutenant Summer Haze?" Asked Celestia.

"She's uh.. held up." Said Ward.

Luna adopted a irritated face.

"What makes a meeting of high command less important than whatever it was she was doing?" She asked.

Ward cleared his throat and spoke matter-of-factly.

"She found her parents. They're kind of.. uh.... dead." Ward deadpanned.

Luna recoiled as did everyone else in the room.

"That's.. unfortunately tragic. The meeting will continue though." Said Celestia.

Ward stepped over and took a seat next to Ross.

"My sister and I, with help from the input you have all provided, have decided that after one day of permitted rest, we shall march on the ruins of Detrot with whatever forces we have left. After that, we shall venture into the Everfree and root out Chrysalis' main hive and destroy it, utterly ending this miserable campaign. The elements of harmony shall accompany the army as it will most likely be them that will be required to defeat the queen. Starting tomorrow, we shall be on the offensive. Dismissed." Explained Celestia.

Walking out, Ross, Ward, and Shining Armor met outside of the throne room.

"So what do you think sir? Can we pull it off?" Asked Ward.

"That depends entirely on the men's willingness to fight, and since last night, I'm pretty sure no one is ready march out and take the fight to those bastards just yet." Said Ross.

"Regardless, the men will have to comply. Just as I will. I would love to stay here with my wife but if I don't go, I'm afraid that not fighting would put her in more danger than if I stayed." Said Shining Armor.

Ross and Ward nodded. A nice speech to the men about what's at stake would definitely rile them up. Ross realized this and spoke up.

"I'll go inform the troops. The way I see it, this evil bitch's days are numbered."

________________________________________________________________________

Chapter 10

In war, there are no unwounded soldiers.

-José Narosky

Canterlot 12:30 PM

Captain Arthur Ross had just finished debriefing the men on the situation at hand in the castle courtyard. With the entire Russian army stationed in Equestria destroyed save a few shaken survivors, it was all up to the remaining human military units to put a stop to this horrible war. Even now, America's armed forces present in the distant land were dwindling. Many good marines had been lost in the conquest of Baltimare and the attack on Canterlot. Using these demoralizing factors, Ross skillfully crafted them into rallying cries to raise the hopes of the tired men.

"Alright, to sum things up, we get today to rest, stock up on ammo, and prepare for the move on Detrot. Tomorrow, we'll begin the march accompanied by whoever the princesses have to give us. We'll link up with friendly units along the way. As far as I know, nobody has backed out of this war yet so we should have ample support from the other nations. We punch through the Detrot line, punch through the Everfree forest, punch Chrysalis in the face, and go home by Christmas. Hoorah?" Exclaimed Ross.

"Hoorah!" Replied whatever remained of the first marine division.

Sergeant Avery and Ross strolled into town accompanied by Lieutenant Ward. The civilians had set up a shaded area in the center of the city square and were giving out the human equivalents of an MRE. Serving with a smile, the Canterlot locals gratuitously thanked the humans and guard ponies for saving their friends, families, and children.

"Thank you!" Said a teal mare as she levitated a meal to Ward.

"We are forever indebted to you!" Thanked a stallion as he shook the hand of Captain Ross.

Avery got blown over by the ponies and was left standing there with his small nutrition supplement.

"Gee, thanks a lo-"

Avery was interrupted by a curt tug on his trousers.

"Huh?"

Standing at his feet, a small filly beamed gratefully up at the ragged man.

"Thank you for saving me mister." Smiled the child.

"Gee kid, no need to thank me. All part of the job!" Avery added with a laugh.

"Like daddy? He was out here too last night with the funny men. Mommy says he'll be back soon though. He had to go away for a while, that's all." Frowned the young pony.

Avery grimaced and felt great pity for the filly at his feet. She had lost her father and didn't even know it. The forlorn sergeant took a knee and spoke as gently as he could.

"Yeah. Sure kid... he'll be back soon. You run along now, I think your friends are having some fun over there I'm sure you wouldn't want to miss." He spoke.

"Okay. Bye mister!" Called the filly as she galloped over to a game of hopscotch.

"Poor kid." Said Avery as he stood up and walked over to his squad mates.

"Mail call!" Shouted a pony in tattered clothing.

A long caravan had rolled into town straight from the portal near Ponyville carrying letters and parcels by the hundreds. A large crowd gathered around, both man and pony waiting to receiving their post. In ten minutes, the carts were picked clean and the mail ponies had trotted off, probably traveling to other armies currently fighting in the general area.

Corporal Klein and Private Sunny Breeze sat by a ravaged fountain and exchanged thoughts, conversing lightly under the withered haze of the afternoon sun.

"Get anything interesting from your relations?" Asked Klein.

"Sure. My mom sent me my favorite Wonderbolts goggles!" Said Sunny Breeze gleefully.

"What's a Wonderbolt?" Asked Klein.

"Dude! Only the coolest flight group ever to grace the skies!" Gasped Sunny Breeze.

"Really? Hey, let me see those." Said Klein, reaching for the goggles.

Fitting them over his head, Klein fumbled with the adjusting straps as he struggled to put on the clumsy headgear. Finally donning the eyepieces, Klein looked over at Sunny Breeze for the reveal.

"How do I look?"

Without saying a word, Sunny Breeze broke out laughing. The goggles, too small for Klein's head, pulled back the skin around his forehead making him look like some kind of pygmy out of a fairy tale.

"Everyone's a critic." Sighed Klein as he pulled off the goggles and gave them back to the pony.

"Oh Celestia, I needed that. Anyway, what did you get?" Said Sunny Breeze wiping tears from his eyes.

"Nothin' much. Just a letter and my monthly subscription to Game-Informer." Said Klein as pulled out the Magazine and flipped through the pages.

Sunny Breeze leaned over eyed the colorful articles. Paragraph-after-Paragraph adorned each page followed by a picture that probably had something to do with the words.

"What's a... Call of Duty: Black OPS 3? It looks... explosion-y" Said Sunny Breeze.

"Probably just another cash-cow Infinity Ward and Activision pulled out of their asses. Bet that'll sell a couple million in a few days." Said Klein.

"Wow..." Sunny Breeze gaped as he sat back up against the fountain.

Meanwhile on the other side of town, Private First Class Hamilton sat on a charred couch pillow and read a book that had come in with the mail. Nearby, a distinct purple mare trotted through the torn landscape, no actual destination on her mind.

"Hmmmm...." Exclaimed Twilight as she spotted the lone soldier with glasses as he read in silence.

Creeping up quietly so as to not disturb the human, Twilight peered over the soldier's shoulder.

"If I may be so bold as to ask, what are you reading? Sorry it's just, literature is the last thing I figured one of your kind would be interested in." Admitted Twilight.

Hamilton looked up and smiled at the pony.

"Oh sure, I love a good book every now and then! Oh and to answer your question, I'm reading The Once and Future King, by T.H. White. A classic." Said Hamilton.

Finding a comfortable place to sit, Twilight found herself picking up an interest in this strange, new book.

"Really? What's it about?" She asked.

"It's a great tale about the life of King Arthur. I've read it before but my mom knows I love this one." Smiled Hamilton as he re-adjusted the glasses on his nose.

Twilight sat quietly, letting the man read in peace for a little more. An odd one this was. Whereas everyone else was off enjoying other pleasures, this peculiar fellow was delighting himself with the comfort of a novel.

Perhaps these humans weren't so different after all?

Taking note that the purple mare hadn't left yet, Hamilton looked up at the curious pony.

"I take it you like reading too?"

Twilight grinned and nodded excitedly.

"Oh yes! I've always preferred written works over any game the kids in my neighborhood played." Beamed Twilight.

"No way? See, a kid like me got called names for what I did. I earned the name 'egghead' from my squad mates just because I like to read. I don't mind, but it does get annoying from time to time." Said Hamilton.

"Really? My friends call me that too!" Gawked Twilight.

Hamilton had to stifle a laugh for that one.

"Heh, the name's Hamilton. George Hamilton." Said the PFC as he stuck his hand out to the pony.

"Twilight Sparkle. Charmed." She smiled as she returned the gesture.

Canterlot Castle 12:47 PM

After finishing their meager brunch, Ross and Ward entered the castle for a proper debrief with general Taylor and the princesses. Other than the meeting in the throne room earlier, none of the marines had officially met the general or any of the princesses.

Luna, Celestia, or the Alicorn with the pink mane.

"So.. what are we doing here sir?" Asked Ward as they stepped through the messy corridors of Canterlot castle.

"We're here to meet up with general Taylor and discuss plans for our next move. If you'll recall, we didn't exactly go in-depth during the meeting earlier. He's got specific plans for where each and every army needs to be when we take the ruins." Explained Ross.

The door to the throne room was guarded by a few elite royal sentries that kept a steady watch over the entrance.

"Um... can we go in or what?" Ross asked the guards.

The guards paid no mind to the two humans and held their ground, not moving an inch.

"I don't know skip. Maybe we should just stare back." Whispered Ward in Ross' ear.

After an awkward moment of silence between Ross, Ward, and the guard ponies, steady foot falls could be heard in the background.

"That's enough captain." Laughed a familiar voice.

Whirling around, Ross and Ward jumped to attention as soon as they recognized the speaker.

"General Taylor sir!" Shouted both the subordinates in unison.

"They wont open the door because you don't have the proper code. Let me handle this." General Taylor pushed by the two soldiers and stood in front of the guards.

"Serendipity."

On cue, the guards pushed open the doors, permitting the humans passage.

"Well whaddya know." Said Ward as he walked through the large entrance.

Inside the throne room, orderlies and staff milled around viewing documents and convening strategic tactics to one another.

"So, how has Equestria treated you two so far?" Asked General Taylor.

Ross scoffed and spoke exasperatedly.

"To tell you the truth sir, like hammered shit. Things have been FUBAR from the start." He spoke.

"Well that's a shame captain. Come to think of it, you look like shit too. I'm sure they'll have something set up in town for that in a while." Said Taylor.

"Like a bath? God, I could use a nice hot shower right about now." Admitted Ward.

"Heh, couldn't we all? Well, here we are boys, command central." Said Taylor as he pointed to an area at the far end of the room.

Placed next to the throne, a small area filled to the brim with maps, books, and military personnel sat totally cut off from the other sectors in the chamber. The princesses of the day and night were studying maps with tired, bloodshot eyes.

"Your highnesses. This is Captain Arthur Ross and First Lieutenant Preston Ward." Noted Taylor.

"Who?" Asked Luna, showing obvious signs of sleep depravity.

"They are our esteemed leaders of the first marine division Luna." Said Celestia stepping up to the two men.

"I give great thanks for arriving when you did gentlemen. We nearly, um... purchased the territory as the general here likes to say." Smiled Celestia.

"Bought the farm." Corrected Taylor.

Ross and Ward gave a respectful bow and looked as humble as they could.

"No need to thank us your highness. We all gotta make a living-" Said Ross, waiting for Ward to continue the phrase.

"-And we're in the business of killing!" Cheered Ward.

The two shared grins but immediately concealed their moment of immaturity by once again donning the submissive faces they had earlier.

"Ahem, of course." Luna said in a disapproving attitude.

"Why don't we get down to business general. You may have the floor." Said Celestia.

Taylor stepped up and positioned himself next to a bulletin board with a large map that covered the land of Equestria.

"Thank you your majesty. Ross, your arrival in the nick of time has dealt the changelings a serious blow. They have pulled back to their final stronghold outside the Everfree forest here, in the ruins of Detrot. The loss of an army this big will definitely set them back, but don't think for a second that they wont counter-attack and wipe us all out now. Our plan is to hit them hard and fast with whatever we've got left. It's our duty-"

"Heh, he said duty..." Noted Ward.

"Are you done Lieutenant?" Asked Luna in an irritated voice.

"Yes ma'am, sorry ma'am." Said Ward, suddenly feeling very foolish for his actions.

"As I was saying, it's our objective to lead the assault from the east side of the city. The attack on Detrot will need to be a quick, decisive victory if we are to continue on to the Changeling hive in the Everfree. The rest of the marine divisions have been seeing action outside Trottingham and will move to assist when available. Now, since winter is at our doorstep, we'll definitely want this done before we start getting any real snow. Understood?"

"Yes sir!" Said Ross and Ward.

"Good. Your services are no longer needed here trooper. You may go rejoin your men." Said Celestia.

After another humble bow, Captain Ross and Lieutenant Ward left the throne room without another word.

"Fine men they are." Said Taylor.

Luna rolled her eyes and scoffed.

"Fine? They are sloppy, childish excuses of soldiers. Not to mention how dirty they were when they came in. No personal regard for anything, the animals."

Celestia recoiled from her sisters words.

"Luna... you disrespectful nitwit." Growled Celestia.

Luna jumped back at her sisters attack.

"Wha-"

Celestia stuck her muzzle right in Luna's face and spoke angrily.

"Have you forgotten the sacrifices they have made? Those sloppy excuses of soldiers have fought and died ferociously for our country and deserve a heroes parade after this war. Every last one of them. Not to mention that they just saved our lives. I doubt even you and I could have held off an attacking force that large. You will treat each of those soldiers out there as an equal and you will do so without a hint of dissatisfaction. Do I make myself clear?"

Luna could only shrink in embarrassment at the example that was just made of her. By her sister of all ponies.

"That's what I thought. Taylor, you're dismissed. I need time to think."

"Uh yeah, holy shit... I'm gonna go over there for a bit and uh.. review... stuff." Stuttered Taylor, still in shock from the can of ass-whooping verbally thrown at the princess of the night.

Canterlot 12:59 PM

Ross and Ward left the castle and regrouped with the men outside. After filling them in with the new orders, Ross had to sit down and think for a bit.

Another assault? We aren't gonna be able to do this with the manpower we currently have. Ross thought glumly.

"Hey skip?"

Snapping back to reality, Ross looked up at Sergeant Avery shaking his head at something in the distance.

"Yeah?"

"Can you believe Guzzo actually spent a buck fifty on one of those things?" Said Avery.

"What thing?" Asked Ross.

"Y'know, one of those informational pamphlets. Tells us what's goin' on back home and all."

"Gee I don't know Richard, sounds pretty cool to me. Hey Guzzo! What does it say?"

A group of men crowded around Guzzo parted to let the captain and 'sarge' in on the gathering.

"Well, the Dodgers won the World Series, Israel and Palestine are on the brink of a peace treaty, and it looks like they brought back the Twinkie." Said Guzzo.

"No shit? That all it says?" Asked Avery.

"Nah, haven't even gotten to the back yet. Hey would ya look at that! They told 'em!"

The group of marines waited for Guzzo to say more. When he didn't, they grew rather impatient.

"Who told who what?" Asked Rossetti.

"Apparently, the cat's outta the bag. Everyone knows about the war now." Said Guzzo.

"Seriously? What does it say?" Asked Childers.

"The Government let out an exclusive story to the press that, and I quote, ...the United Nations have been waging a war between beasts of unimaginable threats to our world. The cover-up, which has lasted for more than a few months now, was instilled to keep the public and other prying eyes from uncovering details that involved national security. Yadda yadda yadda. It just kinda goes on from there about how everyone's taking it."

"Really? How so?" Asked Sergeant Freeman.

"Well, the environmentalists are demanding they get to see this 'new world' because it's their constitutional right, America is in an uproar, half the world can't believe we're fighting alongside Technicolor ponies, and people are begging for war correspondents to get a picture of a changeling."

"Well, they're handling it well." Said Avery after moment of silence.

Ross had to sit down for a bit. The world was now aware of the war he and his men were fighting and dying in. While he took it all in, Ross sifted in his pocket for the letter he had received not too long ago when the mail had arrived. He hadn't even bothered to read it yet. Unfurling the folded paper, he read the words silently to himself.

Dear Arthur,

Holy cow man! It's all over the news bro, ponies, changelings, Equestria. They've already got a bunch of news crews down in that town called Horsey-ville or something! The guy on Channel two said your unit fought there a while back! That's so cool. My friends at school totally think I'm lying. Mom and Dad are a bit shaken and I think mom was crying last night. No one's really showing it, but I think we're all really scared for you right now Arthur. Especially dad. He doesn't like to talk about it, but I know he cares for you. I know I do.

Stay safe,

Dennis

Setting the letter in his lap, Ross sighed. Dad caring about him? That was something. He could worry about all that when he got home though. If he got home. For now, he had promises to keep. Promises to the mothers of the boys he was leading right now. Promises to bring them back home safe.

And he had already broken half of them.

Canterlot 8:32 PM

As evening fell on the darkened city, torches were lit and the surviving inhabitants of Canterlot hunkered down and ate dinner. Even after the attack, the food stores in the root cellars of the grand city still brimmed with ample food supplies. For the most part, it was quiet surrounding the many campfires that dotted the streets of Canterlot. The elements, Shining Armor, Cadence, and Ross received the meal reserved for the officers and wandered the castle looking for a dining spot.

"Any idea where to sit Arthur?" Asked Shining Armor.

"Uh, you guys go ahead. I'm gonna go ahead and sit outside." Said Ross, heading for the doors.

"Why would you want to do that? It's dreadfully cold outside." Said Rarity.

"I prefer the company of my men if it's all the same to you. Wouldn't feel right if I sat in here and ate by the fire while they huddle in the cold out there." Said Ross turning to leave.

After his departure, the group stood there and contemplated their next move.

"Y'know, maybe camping out in the streets ain't so bad an idea after all. Plus, Ah've got troops out there too that could probably use mah presence. Morale wise and all if you know what Ah mean." Said Applejack.

"Same here. You girls don't mind do you?" Asked Rainbow Dash.

The group gave each other quick glances and, after debating silently to themselves, decided a camp-out wasn't such a bad idea. Walking out, the wall of cold that hit the ponies was bitter and unrelenting. All the more terrible when it was coupled with the faces of the soldiers that clustered together in tight groups for warmth.

"They look so cold." Said Fluttershy.

"Yeah? Well they're not the only ones. C'mon Cadence, we'll go sit with Ross. Some of my guards are over there anyways. It'll be nice for you to meet them seeing as though the only time you actually interact with them is from a balcony."

"Sounds good to me honey, as long as your there with me." Said Cadence.

The two nuzzled each other and Rainbow grimaced.

"Ew. You two have fun. I'll be over there if anyone needs me." Said Rainbow as she flew off.

"Me too. Mah unit's camped out not too far from here. If you need me, just holler." Said Applejack as she trotted off.

"Well I guess that just leaves us." Said Twilight.

The fire pit that Ross was clinging to for warmth was being accommodated by several other soldiers, all shivering and eating their vegetable soup.

"Oh? Look who's here guys! The two lovers and the elements of... whatever, I forget the rest." Said Avery.

"Ha, very funny. Now make some room, we're freezing." Said Shining Armor.

"So, Ross is it?" Asked Cadence.

"Yep. This is Hamilton, Ward, Wilcox, Avery, Jacobs, Buchanon, and Klein." He explained.

All the men gave small waves as each of their names were counted off.

"If you haven't met the elements yet, that's Twilight, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy." Said Cadence.

"And these ponies here are some of my outfit. We've been fighting since Ponyville alongside the humans." Said Shining Armor, pointing to Summer Haze and his troops.

The silence that followed wasn't awkward, but almost natural. The presence of these men and ponies made the scenario almost feel comfortable.

"I hate this war." Said Fluttershy, breaking the silence.

"We all do. Killed a lot of good boys already." Said Avery somberly.

The elements, at least those who had still not seen combat, bowed their heads in subtle shame. While their friends and these humans were out fighting, they had sat in the comfort of a castle in the middle of a pampered city. But not anymore. Tomorrow, they would accompany the troops into the fray and hopefully end the war in the next few days.

"Heh, remember Mueller? And how he could squirt milk out of his nose whenever he wanted to?" Remembered Wilcox, reminiscing of better times.

The men nodded and chuckled in agreement.

Shining Armor shuddered. He hated when Mueller did that.

"Really? Sounds awesome!" Said Pinkie Pie.

For a second, the pink mare's hair had risen back to it's poofy state.

"I've gotta see this!" She said.

"Mortar shell cut him in half when we were taking Baltimare." Said Klein.

"Oh..." Said Pinkie, her hair flopping back down to it's straight form.

After a significantly longer quiet spell, Cadence snuggled up to her husband.

"Man, I wonder what Lily's doing right now." Said Avery, taking notice.

"Who?" Asked Twilight.

"My girl. You're lucky captain. You've got your wife right next to ya. God I wish I could say the same about myself." Said Avery, suddenly looking twenty percent more lonely.

Private Buchanon slapped him on the back and summoned a big grin.

"Don't worry sarge, you've still got us!" Cheered the kid, puckering his lips for a kiss.

"Gee, am I lucky or what?" Said Avery in a sarcastic voice as he pushed the private away from him.

The group shared a hearty laugh and quieted down for the better part of the night, and sure enough, everyone had eventually nodded off to sleep except for Ross. He had enjoyed the time they had spent together and was beginning to have trouble keeping his eyes open as well. He inspected each sleeping form, all of them looking extremely tired and in need of rest. Cadence and Shining Armor had fallen asleep in a heart-warming embrace while the elements had dozed off in a cute clustered heap. Lieutenant Ward snored loudly, mumbling a tune under his breath.

"... nobody knows the trouble I've seen..." Ward hummed following it with a huge snore.

Chuckling quietly to himself, Ross allowed himself to tire out and lay down on a makeshift mat. Soon enough, Ross joined the hundreds of sleeping souls that would soon have to leave their pleasant dreams and make the long journey into hell.

____________________________________________________________________

Chapter 11

"Man is the only animal that deals in that atrocity of atrocities, War. He is the only one that gathers his brethren about him and goes forth in cold blood and calm pulse to exterminate his kind. He is the only animal that for sordid wages will march out... and help to slaughter strangers of his own species who have done him no harm and with whom he has no quarrel.... And in the intervals between campaigns he washes the blood off his hands and works for "the universal brotherhood of man" - with his mouth."

-Mark Twain

Canterlot 7:30 AM

"Lets move! Rise and shine ladies, get your asses moving!" Yelled Sergeant Avery, rousing the men from their sleep.

Today was the day. By marching out to Detrot, the humans and ponies that represented the heart and body of Equestria would stride forth and end the madness that had overtaken their land and interrupted their care-free lives. Knowing this, the marines under the command of Captain Arthur Ross hustled at a particularly quick rate towards the city gates.

"C'mon captain we ain't got all day!" Yelled Ross.

Shining Armor shared a quick embrace with his wife while Twilight was busy giving her farewells to her parents.

"I love you Cadence, don't you ever forget that. I'll be back soon okay?" Shining Armor spoke.

Cadence had a hard time letting go, tears forming in her eyes as she loosened the grip on her husband.

"Promise? I don't want to lose you again." She said, no longer retaining the ability to hold back her tears.

"I promise. Stay safe." Shining Armor said, coupling it with a small peck on her forehead.

Galloping away, the pony captain left Ross to gather the elements and move them to their respective units.

"Miss Sparkle, we should really be going now." Said Ross.

Giving her final goodbyes to her parents and Cadence, Twilight ushered herself and her friends past the human, leaving only him and Cadence in the bustling street. As Ross turned to leave, he was stopped by a pink hoof pressuring his shoulder.

"Wait. I need you to promise something to me as well. Bring back everyone safe, okay? You too." Spoke Cadence with a wavering voice.

"That's a promise I can keep." Ross said, adding a short nod.

On that note, Ross shrugged off the hoof and quickened his pace to the rendezvous point near the outskirts of the city. There, he would meet his men and whatever guard ponies were left and begin the march on Detrot.

"Hold it sir! Not that way, we got something better in mind." Said Avery, rounding a corner and waving his friend over.

"What's the deal man? Where is everyone?" Asked Ross.

"The locals got a little tip from the militia west of here that the railways are still up. Fortunately for us, we can ride out more than half the trip to a train station a mile out from the Detrot line." Said Avery.

Avery pointed down the street to a large crowd gathering near the train, steady lines of troops filing into cars added onto the locomotive.

"The civies are adding more cars onto the tracks for the moment. We're pretty much just loading men on platoon-wise." He said.

"All right. Finally something's going our way for once." Said Ross happily.

"You can say that again."

The two oversaw the packing of the freight cars and finally, making sure everyone was aboard, walked themselves onto the cumbersome train. The first half of the train consisted of first class dining cars that permitted entrance to officers only. The middle of the train were the few passenger cars followed by the meager freight cars. For the soldiers, it was first-come-first-serve. Those stuck in the freight cars received blankets and pillows to keep them comfortable while troops in the passenger cars made themselves at home on the sturdy seats. Ross searched for Shining Armor near the front of the train and lo and behold, he found him conversing with the elements of harmony.

"Hey, we've gotten all the guys on the train. We're ready to move when you are." Informed Ross.

"Good. I'll go tell the conductor." Shining Armor said as he trotted out of the dining car.

Waiting for his return, Ross leaned up against the booth the elements were sitting in and inconspicuously surveyed the room. The walls were ornately decorated, the booths attached to them carved out of dazzling mahogany. At the corner of the car sat a fully stocked bar with-

A bar.

"Holy shit..." Muttered Ross.

The elements turned their heads towards the human, all donning a disapproving look except for Applejack and Rainbow Dash.

"Excuse me captain, but your type of dialogue will not be tolerated in this... captain?" Said Rarity, watching the man walk over to the bar in boyish wonder.

The bartender turned and for a moment, looked surprised to see the human standing in front of him but shrugged it off immediately. After all, a customer was a customer.

"Uh... what'll ya have?" Asked the pony.

"Oh hell, haven't had a drink in forever! I'll take a gin and tonic please." Said Ross.

Looking confused, the bartender let out a short chuckle and spoke nonchalantly.

"Look buddy I don't know what weird human beverages you've got on you world, but I'll tell you what. You cough up three bits, and I can hook you up with a cherry drizzle delight." Said the bartender.

"What the... sure, I'll take it. As long as I get a good buzz going." Said Ross.

After a moment of fumbling around with a glass with his hooves, the barkeep slid a small shot of thick red liquid over to the human. Raising it to his mouth, Ross prepared to take a sip.

"Well, bottoms up... GAH-DEAUGH!" Yelped Ross.

The ponies in the car jumped and whipped their gaze towards the estranged man.

"JESUS, what is this? Fruit punch?" Asked Ross.

The estranged pony in front of him nodded emphatically.

"The strongest around. Imported straight from Griffin territory!" He said.

Ross set the empty shot glass down and shook his head disappointedly.

"Strong my ass. If I wanted a glass of Kool-Aid I'd have gone to my little brothers birthday party." Said Ross as the train lurched beneath his feet.

"We're ready to go. The conductor's just doing some last minute preps... are you okay?" Asked Shining Armor as he stepped through the front of the dining car.

"Yeah. It's just, what passes off as alcohol for you is ridiculous." Said Ross.

"Heh, too heavy for ya? I've always been a cider drinker mahself." Said Applejack from the other end of the car.

"Hell, I drank this shit from my sippy cup when I was two." Ross spoke matter-of-factly.

The train began taking off at a rather slow pace and then gradually picked up speed as it left the station. Outside, all of Canterlot was in attendance seeing off the soldiers as they left to defend the free ponies of Equestria. Leaning out the train, Ross could see the heads of ponies and soldiers poking their heads out windows as they cheerfully waved back and hollered words of encouragement.

"Detrot or bust!"

"Hang tight y'all! We'll be back before you know it!"

"Keep the kettle on! We wont be long!"

To his left, Shining Armor stood next to Ross and searched the crowd for a particular mare. And sure enough, there she was waving tearfully next to her two aunts. The two lovers shared mournful glances then blew each other kisses. As Shining Armor trotted back to his seat when the station began getting farther and farther away, Ross eyed Cadence staring at him earnestly. Before she became a dark speck in the distance, Ross swore he saw Cadence mouth a single word to him.

Promise.

On the friendship express 5:36 PM

Walking the length of the train, Ross figured he would spend the rest of the trip in the freight cars with the rest of the troops who had been unlucky enough to score a spot in the homely cargo transports. Stepping into the third car, Ross passed Silver Sparks, Rainbow Dash's Lieutenant, who gave him a prompt salute.

"Captain." Saluted the pony.

"At ease Lieutenant." Said Ross, taking a seat next to a snoring Sergeant Rossetti.

"So, what's on your mind Lieutenant Sparks?" He asked.

The pony lowered his head, and spoke somberly.

"Can I speak freely sir?" Asked Silver Sparks.

"If you haven't noticed kid, this isn't division command. Go ahead." Spoke Ross.

Silver Sparks sniffled and pulled out a picture of two fillies, a colt, and a yellow mare. They all wore goofy smiles and waved at the photographer. He gazed at their happy faces for some time before speaking.

"It's this war sir. I can't take it anymore, I just can't. When I took this job, I thought I would be marching around the wealthiest city in the land guarding the two most important beings that sustain this country. Can you believe how surprised I was when the changelings invaded Canterlot during the captain's wedding? We were caught so badly off guard that none of us had the chance to fight. A-and then this war? Can you imagine how much emotional pain us ponies have gone through? I've seen enough killing to last me a life time! When we took Baltimare, I came across a destroyed building. Naturally, I searched it for food and intelligence that the changelings may have left behind, but instead I saw something that I will never forget for the rest of my life."

Silver Sparks gulped and struggled to push words out of his quivering mouth.

"It was a family of four, all buried under the rubble of the collapsed roof. All dead. The youngest one, just a filly, looked exactly like my daughter Gemstone. I realized there, that this horrific scene could so easily be my family if we don't do something soon. I guess, what I'm trying to say sir is... I just want this to be over. I want to go home and nuzzle my wife. I want to be there when my daughters learn how to say their first words. I want to teach my son how to play catch. I-I just..."

Silver Sparks could no longer hold it in and silently cried in short sobs, quietly enough so that the only one who knew was Captain Ross. Ross shifted himself to where he was sitting next to the bereaved soldier and spoke gently.

"That's a good looking family you got there." Said Ross.

Silver Sparks looked up from his hoofs and the soaked picture. Ross, noticing he had the ponies attention, continued.

"Y'know, I never married. I have a mom, a dad, two brothers and a sister. I am sincerely under the influence that they wouldn't care if I died here. My dad would just go back to being an accountant, my mom would go back to doing the laundry and mixing the colors, my brother Billy would just play his videogames, and my sister Janice would just keep applying make-up until no one recognized her anymore." Ross spoke with a sad smile.

"What about your other brother? You said you had two." Said Silver Sparks.

"Dennis. My younger brother Dennis. Out of all the people in my family, nobody has loved this screw-up of a person more than him. Do you know why I get up everyday and go to war in a place completely unfamiliar to me? Why I look at all the dead cut down around me and keep going?" Asked Ross.

The confused pony shook his head, unsure of where the captain was going with this.

"Because I made a promise to my brother Dennis a while back. Before we got deployed, I wrote him a letter saying wherever I go, I'll do my best to come back to him. Because the night I wrote that, I got a little something from him. He sent me his favorite thing in the whole world next to Pokémon cards."

Ross fished around in his pocket for a moment and pulled out a small copper medallion on a colorful ribbon with a human swinging a bat.

"This is his baseball medal he got when he hit the game-winning home run during his first little league tournament. To make sure I came back, he sent this to me making me promise to bring it back to him. We need to be strong for those we love so that one day, we ourselves can return to them." Said Ross, patting the soldier on the back and walking away.

In the passenger car behind the first dining car, Corporal Klein and Private Sunny Breeze sat together in a seat and conversed about better times before the war.

"... and after the chickens got under the fence, my uncle had to scour the forest with a bag of chicken seed looking for every last one of them." Laughed Sunny Breeze.

"Holy crap, stop man. My sides are burning!" Said Klein, grasping his stomach.

The two quieted down, letting a small chuckle escape their lips every now and then. Klein, noticing the head gear sticking out of the pony's saddle pack, pried as to why it was there.

"You're still carrying around those goggles? Why didn't you just leave them back in Canterlot where they can't get scuffed or broken?" He asked.

Sunny Breeze looked hurt.

"Dude! These are special to me. They're kinda like my good luck charm. You can't just leave your good luck charm lying around for someone else to steal!" He said.

"Alright, alright! I didn't mean anything by it. I just don't want to see you upset if they get ruined." Said Klein.

Sunny Breeze fished them out of his pack and wiped the dust off of them.

"That, I'll make sure doesn't happen. I would die before I let these things get so much as a scratch on them!" He said.

Less than a mile west of Detrot 6:10 PM

The locomotive lurched to a stop and the sliding doors to the freight cars opened up, permitting hundreds of troops to pour out of them. Simultaneously, the dining cars and passenger cars opened their doors, allowing the officers and some regulars to leave as well.

"C'mon, lets move guys! Rally point's by that fence!" Yelled Avery.

The soldiers hustled over to a long fence lining almost the entire countryside. The elements regrouped together, Applejack and Rainbow Dash's units now being commandeered by newly promoted guard ponies.

"Alright, listen up everyone!" Yelled Ross, getting the attention of the entire company.

The guard ponies, marines, and the elements all turned toward the tall human.

"That lump of rubble in the distance is whatever remains of the city of Detrot. In a moment, I want you all to organize yourselves into your squads and move out on my command. Captain, I want you and the elements by my side the entire time. Is everyone clear?" Asked Ross.

After a plethora of short nods, Ross hopped off the fence and regrouped with Shining Armor and the elements of harmony.

"Are you guys ready?" Asked Ross.

He received mixed looks from each pony in front of him. With Applejack, Rainbow, and Shining Armor all being familiar with combat, they readily gave him a confident smirk. Rarity and Twilight gave unsure nods while Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy stared off into the distance, unaware of what they were about to go through.

"Rainbow, Applejack? You stay next to your friends there alright? Keep them safe." Ordered Ross.

The two ponies acknowledged Ross and then went in for a group hug with their friends. Shining Armor trotted up next to his human equal and spoke distantly.

"This is it huh? Where it all began." He said.

"Yep. That place looks heavily defended. Can't see shit and I can already tell it's brimming with the little fuckers." Ross spoke.

Ross turned and cleared his throat, getting the attention of the six mares in front of him.

"Listen up you guys. When we start moving in a bit, stick close. This isn't a game. Those changelings over there will try to kill you in any way they possibly can." He warned.

Ross gestured to himself, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Shining Armor.

"We'll try to keep you safe but we wont be able to watch you the entire time. Keep your heads down and-"

BOOM!

Ross and the troops whirled around, facing the outskirts of the city. To the left, human figures charged the barricades while on the right, ponies clad in armor rushed the nigh impregnable defenses.

"Hodges! Who the hell is that?" Shouted Ross.

Dwayne Hodges, the company radio operator and only link to command headquarters, got off the receiver and responded to Ross loudly over the shouts of the troops around him.

"It's the fifth sir! They finally caught up from Trottingham!" He yelled.

The fifth marine division slowly made their advance along the body-littered fields in front of the ruined city. Shining Armor, squinting his eyes, trotted up next to Ross and identified the attacking pony force.

"That must be the militia that formed up near Appleloosa!" He exclaimed.

Applejack gasped. Her older brother was in that outfit.

"Well c'mon then! We gotta draw some of the fire off of those guys!" Yelled Ross as he cleared the fence in one clean jump.

"LETS GO GET THE BASTARDS!" Ross yelled as he signaled the attack.

The charge that consisted of the first marine division, Shining Armor's command, and the elements of harmony was the perfect example of utter determination. For a full minute, the unending battle cries of the soldiers were without interruption.

Until they came into range of the changelings.

Large plasma bursts obliterated groups of soldiers, valiant veterans of Ponyville, killed in a flash. The entire combined force of humans and ponies hit the dirt and sat in the mix of blood, mud, and wounded. Cracking under pressure, Fluttershy screamed over the din of the massacre taking place all around her. Two feet away from her, Twilight watched a fallen marine clutch his neck, blood leaking out uncontrollably. Thirty seconds later, he exhaled and went limp. This was nothing like the books she read about war in the comfort of her library.

"God damn it, we have to move- GAH!" Yelped Wilcox as the skin on his face was torn clean off by a plasma burst.

Watching his men die all around him, Ross could only stare at the carnage overtaking the hearts of his brave warriors. He saw marines that had braved firestorms of the worst kind in the Middle East cry for their mothers. He saw the last of Sergeant Courtland's mortars get blown to shreds, taking the crew with it. He saw the lone tower in the distance killing his men, sitting safely in the rubble of the city.

And then it exploded.

A voice, calm and in control, crackled through Ross' headset.

"Captain Ross? This is M1A3 Abrams tank call sign WARPIG. Mind if we join the party?" Said the man.

A tank? In Equestria? Ross sat there and pondered that for a moment before replying in a loud, shaken voice.

"HOLY SHIT IT IS GOOD TO SEE YOU WARPIG! PUT SURPRESSING FIRE ON THOSE FUCKING SONS-OF-BITCHES RIGHT NOW!" Shouted Ross.

To his left, and to the surprise of every soldier there that day, three Abrams Tanks and a Humvee with a BGM-71 TOW rocket launcher pulled up and saturated the area with holy hellfire. For a moment, Corporal Klein was laughing. Instead of dozens of burning changelings fleeing their positions, he saw roman candles being fired off on the fourth of July. It was like a crazy, messed up dream. The next two minutes of barrage from the vehicles was a blur for every man and pony lying prone on that field.

The battle for the Detrot line was over just as soon as it began.

"Holy shitake mushrooms..." Muttered Sergeant Rossetti.

Slowly, the battered troops stood up and faced the heaven-sent vehicles. The hatch on the Abrams tank opened up revealing a short, redheaded man.

"Are you captain Ross?"

Ross nodded hesitantly and gulped. He hadn't seen friendly armor in months.

"Y-yeah, that's m-me." Ross said yanking off his helmet and dropping it to the ground.

The ponies, shrinking in fear at the machines in front of them, kept low and quiet.

"What the buck is that thing?" Asked Shining Armor in awe.

"That my friend, is an M1 Abrams tank. It weighs sixty seven tons, armed with a one hundred and twenty millimeter smoothbore cannon and drives thirty five miles per hour." Explained Ross.

The tank commander, getting the eerie feeling of hundreds of shell-shocked stares, buttoned up the hatch and ordered his tank column forward.

Meanwhile, the forward elements of the fifth marine division was ordered forward, leaving Ross' men to pick up the pieces. The elements of harmony, shaken and terrified, sat in the comfort of Shining Armor, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash. Corporal Klein wandered the field, sifting through dead bodies looking for his friend.

"Hey Sunny! Sunny?"

Klein kept walking, fearing the worst. He almost gave up the search until he tripped on a piece of destroyed mortar. Clearing his head, Klein looked up from his position on the ground and stared into something that made his heart drop into his stomach.

A pair of cracked, limited edition Wonderbolts goggles.

Picking them up, he gazed at them with worrisome eyes.

"Oh no. No no no no..." He repeated in disbelief.

Below him, he followed a trail of blood that led him to the last thing he wanted to see.

"Oh god, Sunny!" He yelled, running over to the limp body.

Sunny Breeze's body was charred on one side, oozing burnt flesh and liquids that Klein didn't even want to know where they came from. Shaking his friend, Klein frantically spoke in a panicked tone.

"C'mon man, wake up! Wake up! Don't die on me! Please don't leave me..." Klein trailed off.

Realizing his stupidity, Klein called as loud as he could.

"CORPSMAN!"

Corporal Roe was stitching up a man whose arm had been blown clean off when he heard the call.

"Alright, shit! Hey you! Put pressure on this, I'll be right back!" Said Roe as he sprinted to the frantic voice.

After scouring the field, Roe finally found the origin of the yell. It was Corporal Klein, crouched next to a limp pony. Roe could already tell from that distance that the pony probably wouldn't make it, but a call for help was a call for help.

"Hold on, stop touching him for a bit." Said Roe as he opened his pack and prepared to pull out whatever materials he needed to.

Upon examining the poor equine, Roe couldn't help but notice that this pony was dead, and there was nothing he could do about it. Checking his pulse, Roe found no signs of life on Sunny Breeze's body and gave the suffering man in front of him a shallow shake of his head. Apparently close to the pony, Klein let out a wail that could pierce the soul of even the toughest soldiers.

"I'm sorry kid. There was nothing I could do." Said Roe softly.

Receiving no response from the mournful marine, Roe packed his kit and returned to the one-armed soldier.

Detrot ruins 9:34 PM

The fifth had combined forces with the first marine division and camped together that night while the pony forces collaborated with one another. Applejack, now reunited with her brother, sat by a warm campfire with her friends. Big Macintosh had been wounded in action earlier near Appleloosa and sported a large gash going down his left eye. The two Apple siblings, both touched by the war, shared a loving embrace.

" After tomorrow, we'll be going home Big Mac. To Applebloom, to Granny, to everyone." Said Applejack as she stared forlornly into the fire.

"Eeyup." Replied her brother.

Ross and Shining Armor sat in a building overlooking the tree line that marked the beginning of the final daunting obstacle in their bloody endeavor.

Everfree forest.

"Tomorrow, it all hits the fan." Said Ross.

Shining Armor still couldn't get over the mechanical abominations the humans had brought over to their world.

"Those things... how did you even get them over here?"

"That my friend, is an interesting question." Said Captain Bannon, leader of the tank column.

The two turned around, surprised by the man's sudden appearance.

"They moved each piece of the tank one-by-one through the portal. When that was done, they just outright assembled the damn thing right there. We only had time to do three before we had to roll out and support you guys. Now, the Humvee, that was just a straight drive through. Command was afraid of what might've happened if we tried to move vehicles through. Worried they might mess up the instruments on the portal." Explained Bannon.

The three shared a moment of silence, looking out the destroyed window toward that menacing tree line. Down below, whereas everyone else but a few sentries managed to keep their eyes open, a quiet marine seethed in his hate for the enemy as he grasped a pair of cracked goggles.

The Everfree forest 12:37 PM

"There ain't a snowball's chance in hell we are getting through that forest!" Yelled captain Bannon.

Ross, angered by the fact that they would receive no armored support, stamped the ground with his boot.

"God damn it Bannon! Can't you just fire an HE shell in there or something?"

"Nope. We'll have to find another way around!" Said Bannon.

The army that stood in front of the Everfree forest was in no way impressive. There could be no wait for reinforcements as the risk of Chrysalis' army recuperating and counter attacking was too high. They would have to advance on their own.

"Are you serious? We finally get the fucking things and we can't even use 'em?" Screamed Avery.

"Shit. Looks like it." Said Ross.

The elements, standing behind Ross and Shining Armor, quivered as they stood in the presence of the sinister place. With one final look down the picket line that had formed out of ponies and humans, Ross gave the order.

"Advance!"

Slowly, the lone army of Equestria entered the insidious forest. The first troops that braved a step into the forest were immediately met with gnarled trees and broken roots that made them work for every single footfall in the rough terrain. It was unnervingly quiet as Ross advanced forward, M4 raised high, as he led the Equestrians into the dark unknown.

"I don't like this skip, maybe we should-"

Sergeant Avery was cut short as a plasma burst had hit him square in the face, knocking his helmet clean off.

"Avery!? OPEN FIRE!" Yelled Ross as he rushed over to his friend.

"I'm okay, I'm okay! I just got knocked on my ass!" Yelled Avery as he stood up, ignoring his charred helmet.

Relieved that his friend was alright, Ross ordered the elements down and started taking shots at presumed locations of changeling infantry. The remaining SAW gunners peppered the forest in front of them, suppressing the changeling troops as they pulled back towards their hive.

"FIRE AND ADVANCE!" Ordered Ross.

The soldiers did just that, walking a few feet then taking potshots at changelings that turned around to fight back. Eventually, when they stopped, the army would repeat the process. The elements of harmony stayed directly behind Ross the entire time, hitting the deck every time a plasma burst flew overhead.

"Bannon? Bannon, did you find that way around yet?" Yelled Ross into his headset.

But it was no use. The high trees blocked out all radio comlink. Even the advanced technology of the United States of America couldn't bypass the natural barriers of mother nature. Ross turned to Shining Armor, beckoning for his attention.

"Captain! We need to-"

Right at that moment, a changeling bruiser emerged from his ambush spot and rammed Ross painfully into the side of a tree. Twilight, the only one taking notice, watched in horror as Ross wrestled with the giant behemoth. But just as the monster was about to deliver the killing blow, it shuddered and fell, a large hole in it's side. Across from the Equestrians, a group of changelings screeched in horror as the distinct caterpillar treads of an Abrams tank crushed them, their skulls popping like balloons filled with spaghetti.

"Fuckin' a, it is good to see you guys." Said Ross through his headset, regardless if they could hear him not.

"Sorry we were late to the party." Said Bannon.

Smirking, Ross stood up and ordered a blind charge accompanying the group of Abrams tanks through the dense forest. The lumbering vehicles were able to crush the smaller trees with ease, making it easier for the infantry to traverse the territory. Finally, the Equestrians received a break when they came upon a clearing, and ahead of them was the mouth of a cave bigger than a football field. The changelings guarded it fiercely and took up strong defensive positions around it.

This was the entrance to their hive. It had to be.

"C'mon! This is it boys!" Yelled Rossetti as he slapped a mag into his M4 and ran ahead of the main body.

Easily defeating the enemy entrenched near the entrance with the tanks and a few well-placed shots from the TOW, the Equestrians were able to advance without hindrance. Ross, Shining Armor, and anyone left regrouped near the mouth of the cave and prepared for the worst. Captain Ross stood on top of a dead changeling officer and spoke loudly.

"Alright guys, this is it. We go in there, there is no turning back. The tanks will follow as far as they possibly can but it's our job to find the queen and kill her. We kill the queen, and the changelings will lose their will to fight. Today is the day we end this!" Yelled Ross as he jumped off the body and stared at his comrades gathered in front of him.

Silently, he spoke to Shining Armor before giving one last order to advance.

"Lets do this. MOVE IN!" Yelled the battle-driven human.

Disappearing into the darkness of the hive, the remnants of Ross' company comprised of both pony and human moved forward, resisting the urge to turn and run. The sound of the tanks behind them was definitely a reassurance, even if they couldn't see them.

"Hang on, I see light!" Said Silver Sparks.

Sure enough, a dark blue fluorescence filled the huge corridor as the marines and ponies advanced into the next room.

And what they saw next took the fight right out of them.

The army emerged into a chamber larger than the Georgia dome. Below the Equestrians stood thousands of changelings between them and a significantly smaller room on the other side. That must have been the queen's bedchamber. To the humans and ponies surprise, more changelings emerged from the slimy combs that dotted the ceiling of the chamber. Nobody moved.

Nobody breathed.

"RAAAAAAAAGH!"

At that moment, all eyes in the chamber fell on the rushing form of Corporal Klein charging down the hill toward the monstrous changeling army. After a millisecond of watching the odd event unfold in front of their eyes, both armies copied the man and charged ferociously into each other. Ross measured the distance between the two armies as they drew closer to one another.

Forty feet.

Thirty five feet.

Thirty feet.

Twenty five feet.

Twenty feet.

Fifteen feet.

Ten feet. Klein had disappeared into the flood of changelings by now.

Five feet.

Four.

Three.

Two.

SLAM!

The two armies met violently in the middle of the chamber, blood and gore spewing everywhere as soldier after soldier fell in the line of duty. Ross beat the brains out of the changeling in front of him and located Shining Armor. He was forming a defensive ring around the elements, fighting off any changeling that drew near.

"Here we go..." Said Ross, cocking his M4.

Ross popped three bullets into the first changeling that came across him in the maelstrom of death. Seconds later, a changeling bruiser crashed through the Equestrian line, sending marine and pony alike flying across the room to their death. Ross unloaded the rest of his clip into the beast and kept moving.

"DIE!" Yelled a changeling laborer, poised to strike.

Before Ross could react, the face of the changeling was viscerally ripped off, behind it stood Sergeant Avery. Smiling toward his friend, they moved on to Shining Armor.

"Captain! We need to get to that room! NOW!" Yelled Ross.

Nodding his head, Shining Armor ushered the elements over to the far corner of the chamber.

"When we get there, you six will have to enter the chamber and deal with Chrysalis while we hold off the stragglers! Got it?" Asked Shining Armor.

After subtly agreeing, the small group slowly maneuvered their way through the storm of chaos unfolding all around them. Finally, after cutting their way through an unimaginable amount of changelings, Ross, Sergeant Avery, Private Macdonald, Shining Armor, and the elements made it to a small corridor leading to a room that they were sure belonged to the queen. With the remnants of the Equestrian army engaging the main body of the changelings, the small group was able to slip by unnoticed.

Almost unnoticed.

Running down the hall, the group could hear the pursuing changelings coming after them, driven by a fanatic need to aid their queen. After what seemed like the longest sprint ever, Ross ordered everyone to halt outside the chamber.

"We'll hold here and keep 'em busy. You six do what you need to do." Said Ross, loading a fresh clip into his M4.

The elements of harmony gave one final look of uncertainty at the valiant troops in front of them. Avery smiled back and spoke heartily.

"Don't worry about us. We've gotten out of bigger scraps than this." He smirked, adding a wink before turning around and pointing the barrel of his gun down the hall.

The mane six entered the large chamber and were caught completely by surprise. The room, dark as could be, was completely empty save the lone figure sitting on the evil throne in front of them. They expected the queen to have her most elite guarding her but instead saw only the grim stare of Chrysalis as she stood up from her seat of power.

"So, you made it huh? Oh I'm so scared, Twilight Sparkle and her brats have come to defeat me with the power of friendship." She mocked in a high pitched tone.

Behind the group, gunfire and shouts could be heard as Ross and Twilight's brother engaged the chasing assailants.

"As we waste time trading words, your friends are dying and I get ever closer to my victory. Once I kill you and those fools out there, I will rebuild my army and take your shining capitol. And once I do..." Chrysalis cooed sinisterly.

"... I'm going to burn it to the ground and kill Celestia, Luna, and that whore of a mare you call your foalsitter." Said Chrysalis.

"N-no you w-wont. We'll stop you. Just you wait. We will..." Twilight spoke in a wavering voice.

Chrysalis cackled and her horn lit up in a darkish, evil green.

The elements of harmony screamed.

Outside the queen's bedchamber 1:39 PM

"Clear!"

"Clear on my side!"

"Clear over here too!"

The small squad of soldiers managed to hold off the onslaught of changelings and were recuperating, waiting for more to come.

But none came.

"What do ya think? Are they-"

"AAAAAAAAAAGH!" Screamed a shrill voice.

Shining Armor perked up and adopted a panicked tone.

"That was Twilight!" He said.

Without thinking, the small group sprinted into the room and stopped dead in their tracks when they saw what was happening in front of them. Chrysalis smiled deviously toward them as she held the six mares in her telekinetic grasp.

Choking them to death.

"Kill her!" Yelled Ross.

The four defiant creatures advanced forward at a slow pace firing shot after shot of whatever they could throw at the evil witch in front of them but none of it did any good. The bullets and spell bursts just ricocheted off the menacing shield she had conjured up around herself.

"Oh, enough. You'll get your turn." Said Chrysalis, shifting less than half of her attention to the humans and Shining Armor, maintaining her choke hold on the elements.

With an invisible force, Chrysalis knocked Private Macdonald off his feet and at the same time, loosened a stalactite hanging from the top of the chamber. Macdonald barely had time to scream before the sharp rock impaled his chest, crushing his heart. Levitating a large tree trunk, Chrysalis swung the object at the Equestrians like a baseball bat.

"DUCK!" Yelled Ross.

Being the only one who saw it, Ross just barely avoided being hit by the flying tree. The others however, were not so lucky, as they were thrown across the room and slammed into the wall with such a force that they didn't move after they fell to the floor.

"NO!" Yelled Ross as he bent down, picking up Sergeant Avery's SAW and unloading every last bullet into Chrysalis' shield.

Frustrated at the man's persistence, Chrysalis incapacitated the elements of harmony by chucking them against the wall. Having barely any strength left from the queen's death grip, the girls could only sit and watch Ross take on the queen by himself.

"Fine. If you want to die so badly, who am I to keep you from your wish." Said Chrysalis in an irritated voice.

Ross ran out of ammo and dropped the SAW. Pulling out his Berretta 9mm, the lone captain beckoned the queen forward.

"Come and get me you piece of-"

Moving at lightening speeds, Chrysalis sidestepped Ross and reared up her hooves, impacting him with such force that the man flew ten feet in the air and landed on his back. Reaching for his pistol, Ross realized it had broken, and he was going to have to face her without the only advantage he had over magic.

"Alright then, come and get some." Ross said as he unsheathed his combat knife.

The two beings circled each other, one smiling wickedly while the other huffed in great pain, at least two of his ribs broken.

"So, this is where it ends. You are a fool, but a brave one at that." Said the queen.

Ross swiped at Chrysalis, missing by an inch. The queen however, counterattacked quickly with a two legged buck to the chest sending Ross across the room once more. Reaching for his knife again, Chrysalis rolled her eyes and sighed.

"Oh no you don't. You wont be needing that anymore." She said as she enveloped Ross' right hand with her magic.

And snapped it with such a force that the crack echoed throughout the cave.

"AAAAAAGH!" Ross screamed in agony.

Chrysalis, tired of this silly charade, picked Ross up and brought him unsettlingly close to her face, choking him with the same telekinetic grip she had used on the elements only moments ago.

"Now you die human. Leave this world knowing you have failed all that have put their trust in you."

Ross used his free left hand and fumbled for something on his belt. When he had it in his hand, he waited for the exact moment to use it.

"Any last words you pathetic worm?" Chrysalis said as she smiled a toothy grin.

Ross looked up at the queen to preserve whatever dignity he had left and spoke.

"Yeah, eat it you fucking bitch."

Ross flicked the pin off of the grenade he was holding with his thumb and, balling his left hand up in a fist and summoning every last ounce of strength he had in him, punched it straight through Chrysalis' teeth. With his fist jammed in her mouth, Ross smiled as Chrysalis winced from the pain she was currently feeling.

BANG!

The queen's bedchamber 1:56 PM

Ross weakly lifted his head and looked up at the estranged changeling queen. Her entire lower jaw was missing, blown off from the grenade blast. With some of her brain still intact, at least the part that still tried to process how that meager human had defeated her, Chrysalis body wobbled around a little bit until she finally dropped dead. The grotesque picture of the queen's face laid there on the floor leaking brain matter and blood as she died with her eyes open, her last thoughts being the unimaginable fall of her precious hive.

Shining Armor, Sergeant Avery, and the elements rushed over to the broken body of Ross and gathered around him, the sound of gunfire in the room behind them being replaced with victorious cheers.

"Oh man, stay with me Arthur." Said Avery as he frantically called for a corpsman.

Ross smiled weakly and tried to lay his broken hand on his friend's shoulder.

"It's alright buddy. How do I look?" Asked Ross, losing sight from blood loss.

"Oh god, y-you, you look good man." Said Avery.

But he didn't mean that. How could he? Ross' body was destroyed. His entire left arm had been blown off, including the skin on his waist, exposing most of his vital organs. Ross was dying, and dying horribly.

Ross looked at Shining Armor and spoke softly.

"Did we save them? The elements?" Asked Ross.

Shining Armor nodded and let Ross see the crying mares behind him.

"Yes. You did Captain. You saved us all." He said.

Ross smiled a prideful grin and spoke as happily as he could.

"Then I've kept my promise."

Arthur Ross 1:58 PM

Ross began fading in and out of consciousness. He could see his friends talking but couldn't quite hear them. As a matter of fact, he couldn't really feel anything. Just bliss. Suddenly, Ross could hear something in the back of his head. A low, constant noise.

...b-bump...

It was his heartbeat. It was a rather peculiar sound to hear.

...b-bump...

Then he saw Dennis.

...b-bump...

He could hear his cheerful laugh after Ross brought home the bike he had wanted so much after seeing it at the store.

...b-bump...

He saw himself push his friend Avery out of the way of an insurgent's RPG missile back in Lebanon.

...b-bump...

He saw Shining Armor and how happy he would be when he got back to Cadence.

...b-bump...

He saw Lieutenant Silver Sparks hugging his colt after a long day of catch.

...b-bump...

Fading out of consciousness, Ross saw his father hug him after he had come home from school one day.

...b-bump...

And then he saw no more.

Equestria two days later...

After the climactic battle that took place in Chrysalis' cave, the surviving remnants of the first and fifth marine division retired to Canterlot for a well deserved rest. Among the dead in the cave, the first marine division lost Captain Arthur Ross, killed in the line of duty. His actions that day preserved the peaceful way of life that the ponies of Equestria had sought to keep in the first place. Every participant of the battle of Chrysalis' cave received the Silver Star in honor of the valiant sacrifices made that day. Sergeant Avery, Private Macdonald(posthumously), and Captain Ross(posthumously) received the Congressional Medal of Honor for their heroic performance in the downfall of the changeling empire. The surviving ponies under the command of captain Shining Armor all received Celestia's Gold Cross of Bravery for their gallant display of heroics. As promised Celestia, the sovereign ruler of Equestria, held a parade in honor of those living or dead that gave their lives for the cause. Being a war free country, all of the United Nations was in attendance, including the president of the United States. To this day in the small town of Ponyville sits a statue of three marines, weapons raised in defiance. The soldier in the middle is sculpted to look exactly like Captain Arthur Ross of the first marine division. Below this statue is a plaque that reads:

When freedom was threatened, they answered the call

To fight for those who had no special allegiance to each other

For the word camaraderie has no boundaries to it's meaning

So honorably proven by the First Marine Division

Canterlot

High up in the clouds, during a parade meant for those who had died heroically for the noble cause of defending Equestria, sat a lonely figure. His body bound by the literal meaning of chaos, he spoke as nonchalantly as if the last summer's leaves had fallen to the ground.

"Well... that was fun while it lasted."

Epilogue 1

Waleska, Georgia 12:36 PM

The bright, luminating sun that dawned on the small town of Waleska was in all aspects the perfect day. The flowers bloomed, the paperboy made his routes, and the lawns sparkled with morning dew. It was all so perfect.

Save one bright yellow, lonesome household on the corner of Birch street.

Inside, a gloomy man hunched over his laptop was monotonously filling out an audit for the local Wal-Mart. A woman sat at a table on the back porch looking at a picture of a young man with her moist, teary eyes. A teenager sat in his room, clutching the controller to his PlayStation 4 and stared at the pause screen, not knowing what to do. An older girl in her teens ruffled through the make-up box on her dresser trying to keep her mind off of the impossible.

And upstairs, a young boy lay on the ground in a fetal position, crying his eyes out.

The father that sat downstairs typed away, ignoring the medals and military telegrams that surrounded him as he focused his thoughts on the unusual rise in sales for black Prada shoes.

"Lets see... carry the four..." He thought out loud.

Gene Ross was interrupted by the sound of footsteps in the living room ahead of him. There his wife stood, shaking her head at the her husband, ashamed at his pitiful acts to drown out the death of their son. Gene could only look away in embarrassment, but there she remained, a lingering ghost reminding him of his selfish actions a few months ago.

"GOD DAMNIT ALICE, WHAT DO YOU WANT FROM ME?! I MISS HIM AS MUCH AS YOU DO!" Yelled Gene, finally cracking under the humiliating pressure.

Feeling she had inflicted enough pain, Alice Ross shambled away. Gene however, was glued to his seat, grasping the picture of his smiling boy in full marine fatigues.

"I want you back Arthur... I want you back so much..." The poor man cried to himself.

Ding-Dong

Lifting his head up, the sobbing father ceased his cries for a moment. Was that the door?

Ding-Dong

Wiping the mucus and tears off his face with his sleeves, Gene Ross approached the front door and adopted the best door-answering face he could. Reaching for the knob, thoughts raced through Gene's mind.

Who could it possibly be this time? Haven't we had enough camera men interrupting our lives about 'the heroic sacrifice of Captain Arthur Ross'? Don't they know we're just a family in mourning?

Swinging open the door, Gene had to gasp at what he saw.

In front of the bereaved father stood four figures. The first two were United States marines adorned in their dress blues. The two behind him were the last thing Gene expected to see. Two ponies, both clad in their ceremonial parade armor, stared at the man and the house interior behind him. Sure he had heard about the talking animals and heck, he had even seen the news documentary on them, but ponies? Here? Most humans desired to visit 'Equestria' much more than equines wanted to come here. Noticing the ponies, most of the neighbors had turned their gaze at the front yard of the Ross family, such a rare sight not to be squandered in this simple, small town.

"Excuse me sir, are you Gene Ross?" Asked a marine.

Stuttering, Gene spoke up, still mesmerized about the four legged beings standing in front of him.

"Y-y-yes. That would be me."

The largest of the two Equestrians stepped up, removing his helmet in respect.

"May we come in sir?" Asked the distinguished pony.

Not saying anything, Gene stepped aside and nodded his head, permitting entrance to the four soldiers.

They wandered into the living room, eyeing the place up and down, paying their respects to the dwelling of a true hero and an even better friend.

Gene walked in after shutting the door and entered the room, finding his wife leaning up against a banister as she watched from afar. Clearing his throat to get the attention of their visitors, Gene gestured to the couch in front of them.

"Please, take a seat." He said.

After watching them take the kind offer, Gene sat in his recliner and gulped.

"I suppose you're here on behalf of my son Arthur?" He managed through a wavering voice with a look that only a father who had lost his son could muster.

After nodding his head, a marine stuck out his hand and spoke.

"Yes... and no. Mr. Ross, I'm Captain Preston Ward, United States marine corps and this is Lieutenant Richard Avery. We fought in the same outfit as your son." Said Ward.

Shaking the man's hand, Gene sat back, taking in a deep breath.

"Next to me is Captain Shining Armor and Lieutenant Silver Sparks of the Royal Equestrian Guard." Said the captain, gesturing to the two ponies to his right.

Shining Armor leaned forward.

"We fought alongside Arthur and his troops during the war. He was the finest soldier I have ever seen sir. You ought to be very proud." He mentioned.

Gene's fingertips dug furiously into the armrests on his chair as he spoke angrily.

"Tell me captain, will an infinite amount of pride bring my son back?" He said in a low growl.

Shining Armor recoiled slightly and shook his head earnestly.

"No sir, I meant nothing by it. I just want to emphasize how grateful I am to have had the pleasure of serving alongside your son. You should know that I was with him till the very end." He exclaimed.

Calming down, Gene took on a sad, slightly whimpering voice and struggled to get the next few words out of his mouth.

"Was... was it quick?" The mournful father asked.

Avery gulped, unsure of how they could answer that question.

"Not especially sir... he died a hero's death." Said Avery.

"I see... I take it telling me about my son's death wasn't the reason you've come here?" Asked Gene.

The four soldiers squirmed in their seats, confirming his guess with a nimble shake of their heads.

Waleska, Georgia 12:41 PM

Dennis Ross sat, huddled in his closet upstairs, crying in the name of his role model. His hero.

His big brother.

When they got the news, Dennis' father was out at work. His mother burst into tears while his brother and sister hugged her. Dennis could only stare at the telegram, with shaky knees, as he slowly broke down in front of his family. Before he could be comforted, he pulled away from his mother and ran upstairs, not leaving his bedroom for a long time.

"Dennis?" Called his father.

As usual, Dennis Ross ignored the plea to come downstairs and continued wallowing in his despair.

"Dennis? Come down please." Called his mother this time.

Damn their persistence. He had never disobeyed his parents before until the day he heard of Arthur's death. He wasn't about to end his streak of disobedience just because they had asked nicely.

Until he heard the next few words.

"There are some important people here that want to see you."

Ward, Avery, Silver Sparks, and Shining Armor stood patiently by the foot of the stairs, waiting for the child to leave his nest and confront them.

"I'm sorry, he's never usually like this." Said Alice Ross.

By now, the entire Ross family had gathered in the living room, all waiting on the last family member to come downstairs and bring himself back into their lives.

Gene sighed and spoke almost irritably.

"Hold on, I'll go-"

Gene was cut off by the sound of small footfalls and the sight of a short figure slowly walking down the stairs. In awe, Dennis stared at the ponies and marines as he descended. When he finally reached the end of the staircase, he gazed for a long time into the face of the marine that had taken position in front of him.

"Dennis?" Asked Lieutenant Avery.

With a quaint nod of his head, Dennis waited for the man to say more.

"So your Mr. baseball champ? Arthur sure did speak highly of you. My name is Richard Avery. We're all friends of your brother." Said the man with a smile.

"Why are you here?" Asked Dennis, just wanting to get this over with and return upstairs.

Avery shifted so that he was out of the way of the pony behind him.

"I believe we have something that belongs to you. Lieutenant Sparks?" Said Avery, gesturing towards the somber pony.

Trotting up to the human child, Silver Sparks relinquished a small parcel from his saddle pack wrapped in a bundle. Hoofing it to Dennis, Silver Sparks watched the boy grasp it without saying a word.

Dennis stared at the object in the palm of his hand. Deciding on what to do with it, he slowly began to unravel the packaging until he came to the core of the leathery cloth. Inside the carefully bundled rag was a slightly dented medallion, missing it's colorful ribbon. Swallowing his words, Dennis did the only sensible thing he could think of at the moment.

He pulled Lieutenant Silver Sparks in for a hug and sobbed uncontrollably.

"Th-thank... y-you..." Cried Dennis, not lifting his face from the ponies fur.

Not wanting to interrupt the tender moment, Gene stood in silence. He was almost on the verge of tears when his wife crouched down to the pony embracing his son and joined in on the hug. Alice, crying as well, pulled in a sobbing Billy and Janice as they sat on the floor. Gene felt he had no place in the hug, until a hand stuck out from the pile, beckoning him to accompany it into the hug.

It was Dennis.

Finally breaking, Gene Ross let loose a wall of tears and joined the embrace.

With his free right hand, Dennis even reached out for Shining Armor, Ward, and Avery. Glad to oblige, the three soldiers crouched down and fused together with the mournful group. For hours, the shaken beings on the floor huddled close together in silence, sharing the warmth of the medallion that emanated the spirit of a well loved friend.

Gone, but not forgotten.

Epilogue 2

Trottingham 3:23 PM

"Extra, extra! Battle in Everfree forest marks end of war!"

The battle tarnished streets of Trottingham sat in the shadow of a cloudy day in Equestria as the civilians took to the streets, cleaning up the aftermath of their liberation by the fifth marine division. Many human war correspondents searched the streets looking for a good story while others just explored. After all, it was a whole new world for them. Few soldiers were given leave due to the fact that a changeling counterattack could rear it's ugly head any minute, resulting in the repositioning of thousands of human troops.

Including Corporal Louis Klein of the first marine division.

Hitching a ride on a supply caravan from Canterlot, Klein disembarked the wagon and wandered into town. Leaning on a crutch given to him after sustaining wounds in the battle of Chrysalis' cave, Klein had only one destination on his mind at the moment.

166 Maple Avenue.

Putting the slip of paper back in his pocket, Klein proceeded down the road eyeing the signs that dotted houses and shops. Aside from the ponies and war correspondents, hundreds of annoying television reporters with on-scene camera crews scoured the streets barraging folks about what they could tell them about their experience in the war.

"Hey! Hey you! Jerry, get the camera rolling."

To his left, Klein spotted a thin woman with stylish hair jog up to him in high heels, cameraman trailing behind.

"Jessica Faraday, channel two news. Soldier, care to share with us your harrowing journey during the war?"

Klein lifted up a hand in defense and shook his head earnestly.

"No thanks, I'm just trying to get somewhere." He said, turning his head away from the camera that continued to zoom in on his face.

He would have jogged away if it had not been for the crutch he was using for support.

"Your patch shows you were a part of the first marine division. Can you explain to us what happened during the last hours of the war? You were there after all, Weren't you?" Asked the woman.

She was getting on his nerves now. The fact that the man with the camera insisted on pushing the large device into his face wasn't helping either.

"Yeah I was there... I don't want to talk about it..." Said Klein.

The reporter continued to push him, getting more personal with each prying question.

"Do you think your role in the war wasn't enough?"

"Would you go back and do it all over again if you could? Maybe try to save more lives?"

"Can you tell me about the men you fought alongside that day and why they didn't take part in the battle?"

What did she just say? Something inside Klein snapped as he dropped the crutch, summoning all his strength to stand on both legs.

"What? Didn't take part?" Asked Klein in a low growl.

The woman perked up, readying to answer the soldier.

"Yes, that's what I said. We have indefinite proof from an underlying source that the marines in your division provided covering fire for the advancing Equestrians as they took on the bulk of the army by themselves." Said the woman matter-of-factly.

Klein's fists balled up as he drew in a deep, shuddering breath.

"Howard Buchanon, age nineteen." He said.

"What, I-"

Klein didn't let her finish.

"Killed in action. Face crushed in by a changeling."

The woman stood there, her cameraman keeping the lens trained on the soldier in front of them.

"I don't quite underst-"

Not giving her an inch, Klein attacked verbally again.

"Dwayne Hodges, age twenty four. Killed in action. Body severed in half when a changeling sliced him open with a lance."

Not even waiting for her to say anything more, the angered soldier carried on.

"John Cumberland, age thirty two. Wounded in action. Legs severed during combat."

"Jack Courtland, age twenty four. Killed in action. Shredded to pieces defending a stranded tank crew."

"Mike Doherty, age twenty six. Killed in action. Head severed after taking multiple blows to the neck."

The woman reporter, legs trembling from the onslaught of information, backed away from Klein and into the next street. He had done all he needed to. Straining as he bent down to pick up the crutch, Klein wandered down Maple street looking for the special address, a pair of goggles clinging to his side. The note in Klein's pocket, written to the parents of a young soldier, belonged to Private Sunny Breeze. The simple scratch of paper read:

Dear mom and dad,

If your getting this letter, I'm sorry. No one knew it would come to this, but the thought was definitely floating in the back of my mind when I wrote it. The human giving it to you is my most trusted confidante so please stop hitting him with your frying pan mom. He's not a looter. He's the greatest friend I've ever had. I just want you to know that I love you both so much. Tell little Penumbra about me when she's born. She can have all my stuff, I won't be needing it anyway. I don't mean to end this letter on a sour note, but my sergeant is calling for us.

Lots of love,

Sunny