Chapters Ponies of Starfleet, Part 1: What Remains Ponies of Starfleet, Part 2: Layline Violation Outlaws, Part 1: So You Wanna be a Spacer Misfits, Part 1: Legacy of the Doctor Dragon Season, Part 1 Smut Part 1: Dragon Season, Part 2 Outlaws, Part 2: Bio Mom-Droid Recruiting, Part 1: The Muscle Recruiting, Part 2: The Combat Expert Recruiting, Part 3: The Specialists The Confrontation, Part 1: Summoned The Confrontation, Part 2: The Trial News Broadcast - The Master Chief Ponies of Starfleet, Part 1: What Remains
• USS Emissary, Retired Starship Carrier:
"Has it really been a thousand Cycles?" Jean Luc Picard sighed to himself. Before downing his glass. Only for it to be immediately refilled by an attentive Waiter.
William Riker sat next to him, along with a few other Admirals. As they watched the daily broadcast, recapping all the "Accomplishments" since the humanoids united.
The former Captains, of the previous Federation, sighed looking around the Admirals' Bar. Picard normally didn't venture in here. However, he didn't exactly avoid it, either. He was just a solitary person, by nature.
However today was far too important for him to be absent. They were in mourning of what they lost. Taking note of how far humanity had fallen.
Next to Riker was an associate of his. Although Picard found her brash nature rather... offputting.
Her species had evolved from an Equine-like species. With Picard learning the hard way that comparing them to a "Horse" was considered extremely derogatory. They considered it along the lines of calling a humanoid an "Ape" or "Monkey". However, the universal translator insisted on naming their species "Ponies". Which they strangely saw no issue with.
Well these quadrupeds were about waist high to humans, so they certainly were small enough to be called "Ponies". Still it seemed a bit demeaning. Which wasn't helped by their chosen naming conventions.
For example, this pony was called "Rainbow Dash". She was a bright blue, with multi coloured hair... actually looking like a Rainbow. With her coat, and her mane, being in bright pastels... as were her wings.
"Celestia do you humans suck," Rainbow Dash spoke with her usual bluntness. "I mean, obviously not all of you are horses, but look at that!" She pointed at the screen. "They're actually patting themselves on the back for forcing all non humans into the center of the Galaxy!!!"
Riker sighed, as Picard tried to be diplomatic. "This 'Terran Empire' is a pale imitation of it's predecessor."
Admiral Dash scoffed, "As if! I know you two are always going on about the good old days, but I never met your 'Federation of Allied Planets'. It couldn't have been that different from the Terran Empire."
"It really was," Riker insisted. "Truthfully, it wasn't that different then the Alien Alliance. Species from all over our Galaxy, joined together in a utopian union. Not only respecting, but fully embracing our differences."
"And humans didn't screw that up?" Dash took a gulp of her Cider.
Riker explained, "Humanoids help found this union, and had strict laws about not interfering in other cultures."
Dash scoffed, "Sure."
Picard had had enough. "If you recall, Lady Dash, it was Humanoids from Terra Prime, which helped build this civilization. We did not agree with what the other Humanoids were doing, and came to help the other lifeforms. We negotiated for control of the 42 Star Clusters, that make up the Alien Alliance, and shared Federation Technologies. You're current Starfleet is based off the ideals of our own."
Admiral Dash shrugged, "I said not all of you were horses." Then pointed at the Television, "But they are."
The Terrans sighed, not knowing how to refute that.
Riker spoke up, "You should have seen The Federation, our Federation, at it's height. We had ships as big as countries, and technologies that could compete with the most powerful Magic Users... Most of that has been lost."
"Why don't you lot build stuff like that anymore?" An orange filly suddenly appeared. The little Pegasus was no bigger then a beagle, and Riker had to resist the urge to reach out and pet the child.
"Scootaloo!!!" Rainbow Dash glared. "What I tell you about coming into the Admirals' bar!"
Scootaloo immediately started whining, "But I'm an Admiral."
Rainbow Dash sighed, "Not anymore you're not. You're on sabbatical until you grow up again."
"I don't think she's doing any harm," Riker accidentally butt-in... he really shouldn't have. Dash was the girl's guardian. Unfortunately he already stepped in it. So he might as well explain his reasoning. "Most of the people in here are her friends. I'm sure they don't mind seeing her."
Scootaloo gave a smug grin.
Rainbow Dash sighed, before picking the filly up and setting her on the stool next to her. Then ordering her a juice box.
Picard seemed rather uncomfortable. Still not knowing how to act around children. If anything, after being regressed about 12 times himself now, he had gotten even worse at relating to kids.
"I remember you having a whole fleet of these Starship Carriers." Scootaloo stomped one of her front hooves on the counter. "Now this baby's all that's left. How come?"
Picard sighed, "Technologies are always lost, as Empires fall. I've always enjoyed studying archaeology. Although it is more a hobby, in practice.
"The point is, I long since noticed that older civilizations would create technologies that were simply beyond us, but inevitably they lost the resources to continue making them. Either through a change in government, war, plague, or some unknown element. For us, it was the reintroduction of an Economy."
"Eh?" Scoot blinked.
Riker elaborated, "Money. Without access to the majority of our Federation's 'alien' worlds. We lacked resources. We were forced to focus more on Trade. With both the Humanoids and the Aliens. But we found that bartering wasn't enough. You all wanted actual currency. So we were forced to adopt it. Then it began to get used more commonly, even between ourselves... until we no longer had the funds to maintain our lifestyle.
"Only a few technologies were prioritized, to make them 'cost effective': Replicators, Rejuve Pods, AIs for starships. Transporters were one of the things that got abandoned. There was simply no way to make that cost effective." Riker got his lecturing voice. Similar to what he used whenever Picard became his ward again.
He continued, while Scoot listened intently. As if this was the first time she ever heard any of this... in a way, it was. "But the technologies we did manage to preserve came with more drawbacks then they used to have.
"Replicators got the biggest shaft, as people realized what money making machines they were. Different models were designed. Each capable of turning raw matter into something else.
"Like the Military Grade Replicator, to build weapons and ammunition. It's illegal for those to be anywhere but on a Military Base or Starship.
"Then the Industrial Replicator, to create construction materials. Those things are as big as a house, and can cost billions. We only got three of them on this whole ship. And we're the largest vessel in the fleet."
"Then engineers had to cut out some features of the standard model. In order to make it cost effective. They needed tanks of raw matter, to be turn into other items. And... unfortunately, they could no longer be used to make food. As the material that came out was always toxic when ingested.
"Thankfully, the Uzumaki chose to share their farms with the rest of the Galaxy. With plants growing not only produce, but various kinds of meat. Which require shipping freighters.
"Regardless, with all of those models being far too expensive to be common household appliances. Especially with the power needed to use them. A single Business Level Replicator needs a Grandmaster Lyrium Crystal, just to run the thing for a month."
"However, it was more cost effective for stores to use Replicators. As opposed to factories. Companies would sell licenses, to be uploaded into a business' Replicator. Then the store would sell the items to the customers...
"This made it harder to start a small business. As the cost of the licenses, the raw matter, and the Grandmaster Lyrium Crystals, not to mention the Replicator itself and it's maintenance... well all that can add up.
"So mom and pop shops became less common... especially after the factories went out of business. So no help there. They couldn't even buy products to sell without a Replicator."
"Rejuve Pods were probably the only thing that got upgraded. Better safeties were installed, and memory blocks were set up. Oh the kids, like you, remember the gist of their lives. All the key moments are preserved. We even insure their personality remains intact. But kids aren't meant to deal with adult traumas, so we tweek those into a more vague Awareness.
"A side effect is most of your life... also becomes pretty vague. Including your education. You'll remember everything, eventually, but the memory block lifts slowly, as you age. So you don't get overwhelmed."
Scootaloo frowned, looking as if in deep thought. She knew she hated having to relearn everything. But she supposed it was better then being trapped in a child's body... and having to remember all the monsters she killed in service to Starfleet... it was hard enough coping with the fact she knew she had taken lives. Even if they were bad people.
At least, due to the block, she couldn't recall any of the details... she just wished she could have this wonderful childhood innocence... and not have to go to school... or even the fact she needed to be potty trained again...
Which had been embarrassing, and made her "extra fussy" as Dash called it, but she was finally fully potty trained again.
Rainbow Dash added, "A lot of medical technologies were preserved, and even improved on. But besides medicine, we don't got a lot of stuff we used to.
"Those Carrier Ships, you were asking about, were harvested for scrap. So that we could build our cities. But don't worry, we made sure to get their programs to the Synthetics."
Picard started speaking, hoping to impart something on the youth. "There were restrictions placed on the manufacturing of artificial lifeforms. Though I actually agreed with that.
"Now, only Synthetics can build synthetics. Along with labor laws, and equal rights. Unfortunately, that was a direct result of the 'Robot Rebellions', as crude as a title that is. It spoke of the underlying problem with this government.
"The humans might have a united Empire, but it has a 'humanoids first' mindset. The other races, trapped in this Sector of space with us, are typically neglected, and at worst oppressed.
"Those Countless alien ships, sealed into this Galaxy, were all military vessels. So it was fairly easy for them to get organized.
"However, for the first few years in our new Galaxy, many of the aliens had been forced to live nomadically. It was necessary, while the military leaders terraformed the worlds. In order to fit the needs of each species.
"The Humanoid government chose to assist them. By giving them an empty Star Cluster. These worlds may have once held the potential for human life to evolve, but they were barren rocks at the time. The Aliens were encouraged to terraform them. Even given assistance.
"We Terrans managed to talk the rest of the humanoids into giving the Aliens most of their Black Rocks. Those are hostile worlds that can, supposedly, never support life.
"Some of the more advanced species moved those planets out of their solar systems, and brought them closer to this Star Cluster... that was at the Humanoids insistence. As they didn't want aliens living near them.
"Black rocks are normally only good for mining. But thanks to you ponies, and your 'magic', you were able to terraform every world, with whatever that race needed.
"Unfortunately, the other humanoids only allowed this, as a means of containing the aliens into this Sector of space. That way, when your populations grew, you wouldn't be forced to expand out of your territory. The founders of this new Empire, had been bigots from the start, and that shaped the culture.
"Of course, not all aliens chose to live on their ships, while their worlds were being terraformed. A minority decided to move onto humanoid planets... which the new government was... less helpful with. They created refugee camps, which were slowly turned into slums and ghettos.
"Even after the Aliens finished Terraforming, many decided to stay in these poorer areas. They had built lives for themselves, in the lifestyle they had chosen. It was just common sense some of them would desire to stay in Humanoid Space.
"As the generations passed, quite a few of these aliens, who had been doomed to a life of poverty. Had become outlaws, or outright pirates, as a way to cope in this Human dominated society.
"Where the humanoids have the Space Forces, to compete with this, we have Starfleet."
Author's Note
Codexes:
• Galactic Standard Calendar:
1 Cycle = 3.6 Earth Years = 1090 Days = 12 Seasons.
1 Season = 8 or 9 Weeks.
1 Week = 10 Days.
1 Day = 33 Hours.
1 Hour = 100 Minutes.
• Leviathans:
As a "Mega System" is multiple star systems orbiting around a common point (usually a Colossus sized star), A "Mega Galaxy" is multiple galaxies in a unified orbit around a massive object at the center.
During the beginning of the 42nd cycle of the universe, this Mega galaxy was crafted by the oldest mortal race, far older then even the Mala'kak. Who seeded the galaxies with their DNA, to create the various humanoid species.
The Leviathans actively crafted the universe. They were the size of Starships, and were originally ocean dwelling beings. With an appearance much like Earth's giant squids, but shorter tentacles. They had technology, which allowed them to fly and even survive in space, with no need of a starship. Like living planets, Leviathans are classified as "God-Killers", due to their sheer magical power.
The Leviathans once had a massive Empire, stretching across the whole of existence. However they wanted easier travel, and so merged the existing, 10,000 galaxies, into 42 massive galaxies.
First they created multiple massive space stations. Each sculpted from the raw resources of a billion lifeless worlds. These stations are known to the current civilizations as "The Citadels". There is one at the center of each Galaxy. Each consist of a ring, with 5 blade like arms.
Meanwhile, all planets capable of evolving life (not necessarily ones with life but at least capable of supporting it) were placed into Systems of similar evolutionary capability. Each of these organized into Star Clusters, orbiting around their own Ring like space station. These systems orbit the rings, and the Rings orbit their Citadel. In times of crisis, the Halo rings were designed to break orbit and be shielded by the arms of their Citadel.
The Leviathans viewed themselves as the ultimate lifeform, with their superior telepathic powers, and bodies the size of large Starships.
They would invade the minds of all other species they encountered, and make them want to serve them. However the creatures they enslaved still retained their personalities, and much of their independence.
These "Lower" lifeforms were viewed largely by the Leviathans as pets. Something to spoil and pamper. However they still were expected to assist their masters, with various task the bulky body of a Leviathan was unsuited for.
They viewed these "Lower lifeforms" much as how humans view "service animals". Complete with the mindset that Sapient life was inferior to themselves, and therefore needed the guidance and protection of the Leviathans.
Throughout the billions of floors of each Citadel, are several Artificial environments, to grow food and provide water. There are various machines meant to purify and maintain the Citadel's water supply. As well as machines to artificially create water, air, and nutrient rich soil.
Well the gravity outside the Citadel was strong, inside it was Earth Norm regardless of mass. This is due to the Leviathans having an advanced understanding of magic and science. They were able to greatly alter the mass of an object, to be comfortable regardless of size. Although the gravity is powerful enough to keep all the galaxies in orbit around it. It does not affect ships with a mass effect engine, or the inhabitants inside them, or the station.
Anything that orbited the Citadel, be it directly or indirectly, would follow the station as it moved through space.
In each Solar System is a refuelling station for Star ships, filled with secrets of Mass Effect Drives.They also have a great deal of Scientific information. The Reapers left these behind to insure technology would evolve the way they wanted it to.
• Reapers:
The Leviathans once used their natural indoctrination magic, to enslave the galaxies. However, they eventually realized that their servants kept building more servants, in the form of Artificial Intelligence. Which would inevitably turn on the "lesser beings". So the Leviathans built an AI of their own, which was meant to study the phenomenon and discover a solution.
The solution, the program created, was to build an army of Starships, made out of the essence of the sentient lifeforms. Entire civilizations would be converted into new self aware ships, called "Reapers" by later civilizations.
They left various technologies behind, to guide future species to develop the way they wanted them to, then drove the Leviathans into hiding.
It is said, the Reapers actually created the Mega Galaxy. During the first paradoxical war, at the beginning of the universe. However, most respectable scholars do not believe this "Time War" ever happened... despite Legends and myths, about such an event, existing in every culture.
• Terran Empire:
Today marks the One Thousandth Anniversary of the Terran Empire. A Utopia, focusing on the well being of all humanoid species. Where each species was given seats on a Senate, a seat for each planet under that species rule.
Here, all health care is free, along with housing, and a monthly grocery allowance, as well as a separate toiletry allowance. All necessities are free. With money being used purely for luxuries.
This is thanks to the electronic currency, all humanoid governments agreed to. So money can be created as needed, by the government. So all necessary workers can be paid indefinitely, depending purely on how much they produce, and how many hours they work.
• The Terran Citadel:
At the center of the known universe, is a Citadel, larger then any other, and made from a thousand dead galaxies.
Each solar system, which make up the galaxy, was placed in the empty space, in the middle of this Citadel.
Meaning the galaxy is surrounded by this massive Citadel. The Collectors did this, as they thought it be easier to control the Humanoids, as they were at the center of what was once the Reapers' power.
The Terran Empire later claimed this massive Citadel, as the center of their power.
Humanoids use the limbs for housing, and civilian businesses, and entertainment facilities. As well as domestic necessities, found in every neighborhood. Such as: schools, postal offices, banks, bath houses, etc.
While the arms are were people actually live, the main ring is strictly for galactic government.
Such as: the embassies, the Senate chamber, and various other government offices. It also holds government sponsored Academies, to train special individuals who were born with odd manifestations of magic (AKA "Classes", similar to Dungeons and Dragons). As well as the main offices, and training facilities, for the Space Forces. And several thousand farmin decks.
• Farms on the Terran Citadel:
Government controlled farms grow special foods. Created through a mix of genetic engineering, and Alchemy magics. A gift from the children of the Doctor.
Plants coming in a variety of shapes and flavors. While being comprised of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and all nutrients required by the one who eats it. Thanks to it's Alchemy magics. They are 100% healthy. Leaving no waste. With produce fully ripening, as quickly as it is picked. And never spoils.
The main plants are tall bushes, standing at a maximum of 7 feet. With different types of produce growing on these plants.
The first bushes grow corn like cobs, but instead of Corn, they grow rice grains.
Although there were relatively ordinary grain flavors, most of the plants grew truly unique foods. With no need of any seasoning to taste like the real deal.
There were simple, but still impossible, flavors of classic rice. From white, to yellow, to Mexican, what have you.
Then other rice bushes grew more complicated pasta flavors. From regular noodles, chow mein, spaghetti, alfredo, and even lasagna. As well as a few hundred other pasta dishes.
There were even a few rice cobs, which tasted like pastries, or sweet breads: Cookies, cakes of all kinds, donuts, honey butter biscuits, Hawaiian bread, just everything imaginable, even pancakes. These were frequently ground up into flower, and turned into dough.
Despite how complicated the flavors got, they each cooked like instant rice. Without being any messier then sticky white rice.
Other bushes were growing raspberry like produce, although coming in a wide variety of bizarre colors.
Each tasting like a different kind of fruit, real berries, or vegetables. Apple berries, and Orange berries, tomato berries, and classic blue berries. All growing in their own orchards.
Another bush was growing cuts of meat, wrapped up in a lettuce like material. That's various cuts of chicken, pork, beef, and all kinds of fish, and various alien animals, as well. Meat, truly cruelty free, as they were never real animals.
There were a few types of Bushes, growing different kinds of lettuce heads, and cabbages, without the meat.
There were even bushes growing different types of Cheese wheels, in every flavor.
Next were bushes growing what resembled very large pea pods, but containing salt like crystals inside. Though these, to, came in various flavors. Such as Spicy, Sweet, Creamy, Tart, Tangy, Buttery, Sour, Honey, Sugary, Chocolatey, and of course Salty. As Well as every natural herb and spice imaginable.
They slowly dissolve in water, including saliva.
There were even various kinds of candies, growing in banana peels: Starburst, to skittles, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, to gummy worms, and hundreds more candies.
Then there were bushes growing Coconuts. But Inside the Coconuts, instead of water, was every kind of soft drink, or milk flavors (from chocolates to strawberry, and everything in between), even different kinds of punch, juices, teas, or flavoured waters.
There was even bushes growing super dense diamonds, the size of Watermelons.
These diamonds are necessary raw matter, for the modified Replicators.
• Technologies:
Unfortunately, the secrets to making food from Replicators, was lost. As everything modern Replicators create, is extremely toxic when consumed.
However, Replicators can still create nearly anything else. From computers to building materials, for houses. By manipulating the particles, in the raw matter stored inside the machine, to turn it into anything else.
This is just one of the technologies Terrans gained, thanks to their alliance with the other Humanoids
They also gained advanced Terraforming abilities, from the Residents of the 'Verse' satellite Galaxy. Which was also moved here, to create the Terran Galaxy.
The Alliance, of the Verse System, is where much of the Terran Empire's culture comes from, due to their influence in giving the other humanoids Terraforming.
The Empire also holds many traits of the former "Federation of Planets", due to their superior technology being adapted into Alliance culture.
Such as their Replicators, as well as their Weapons and Dyson Spheres. Although they were more reluctant to trade. They had to rethink their policy, due to being isolated from most of the worlds they normally bartered with.
While most of the humanoids, from the Trek Galaxy, joined the Empire (bringing Federation technologies with them). Most of Starfleet, itself, branched off, and joined the developing "Alien Alliance".
However, in both cases, much of their technology was lost, or downgraded. Due to having to make them cost effective. There are some things even a virtual currency can't compensate for. And the sheer resources they needed to consume, just to build their ships, stretched things too far.
They did convince many of the humanoid governments, to relocate their black rocks, worlds that can't be terraformed, and gas giants, over to the center of the Galaxy. So that the Aliens, who helped The Empire, could use their own specialized magicks, to make them habitable for their own species.
The Terrans gladly gave over the worlds, which they had no use for, to the aliens. And with that act of kindness, the Federation fully integrated into the Empire. Finally fully sharing their own technologies.
Including their Rejuve Pods, a technology created by studying a transporter accident. The Empire actually helped perfect that technology, although they couldn't salvage transporters.
• Rejuve Pods:
These Pods physically regress individuals, by converting them into energy, and then removing genetic markers. As such, people can only be regressed into prepubescent bodies. With Humanity never being able to figure out how to regress individuals older then 12.
Better safeties were installed, and memory blocks were set up. While the kids remember the gist of their lives. All the key moments are preserved. Even their personality remains intact. But kids aren't meant to deal with adult traumas, so their memories are clouded, to give more a vague Awareness.
A side effect is their education, also becomes pretty vague. They will remember everything, eventually, but the memory block lifts slowly, as they age. So they don't get overwhelmed.
Due to this... The Terran Empire has found additional uses for the technology.
They will physically mark people, who were regressed. By tattooing the back of their hands, but leaving first time children unmarked.
an "M" represents a medical, or psychological reason, for the individual to be regressed in age. As this can repair crippling, or even life threatening, injuries.
The "V" stands for volunteers. As some people desire to re-live their childhood. To potentially have a better one. This happens a lot with victims of abuse.
While the "P" stands for Pennies. Criminals, who are given the chance to grow up again, in a firm but nurturing environment. In the hopes a better childhood will help them grow into better people.While this is done with most offenders, after three "Strikes", on their record, the individual is sent to prison, as opposed to being Rejuved.
The "S" stands for "Special Forces". Which are departments like Superheroes, Spectres, Shinobi, and other galactic champions. When these individuals are regressed. They are often retrained as apprentices. As their Chakra becomes unstable, and their bodies can no longer handle the strain of channeling their power. They need to re-learn control.
View Online
Ponies of Starfleet, Part 2: Layline Violation
"Jean-Luc?" Picard looked up, to see Data stepping over. The nearly 2000 year old Android, was still the most advanced artificial lifeform in the known universe. And there were now millions of him running around, on their own Home planet. Picard couldn't be more pleased for his friend.
Regardless, Data looked grave, even given what today represented.
"I'm afraid," began the pale gold Android. "We must call the festivities to an end. The Kei Pirates are closing in on the XGP. We don't have much time to prepare."
Picard sighed, "Any idea why they are so obsessed with claiming this 'Galactic Leyline'."
"The Galactic Layline!!!" Scootaloo jumped off her stool, and crashed in front of Data. She didn't even pause to say ow, just yelled, "It's HERE!!!"
Data blinked, "Miss Aloo, you're clearance has been suspended until-"
"Buck my Clearance!!!" Scootaloo snapped.
Picard was expecting Lady Dash to rebuke the child, given that was quite the harsh swear in the pony tongue. However, when he looked at her... the woman was frozen in shock.
"Rainbow," Riker got her attention.
The mare shook her head. Before glaring at Data. "Why didn't you tell me?!" She demanded. "Scootaloo might not have clearance, but I do!" She got up and started pacing, "I have to warn the Princesses. If the humans find it, or worse yet, one of the pirate guilds..." Her head snapped at Data, about to ask a million questions, but Picard interrupted her before she could begin.
"If I may ask," Picard got her attention. "How do you two know about the Galactic Layline?"
R.D. glared at him, "You first."
Picard shrugged, "My archeology hobby. It gave me the unique qualification to head this assignment. There are thousands of planets, with legends and artifacts connecting back to the Galactic Layline. Some even have stories of their former Galaxy falling into chaos. Other speak of it with benevolence. Although none agree what it actually is."
R.D. snorted, "While the ponies know what it is."
Eying the 5 star Admiral, Rainbow demanded of the android, "How do you know it's here?"
Data looked significantly at the Filly, who wasn't budging, and sighed. Turning back to Lady Dash.
Data informed, "We have planets, from all over the known universe, relocated into this one Galaxy. Some of those worlds have a connection to the Galactic Layline. They received a signal, when it entered our, relatively new, Galaxy, approximately three years ago. There has been a hunt for it, ever since. Although no one can pin point its exact location."
R.D. screamed, "It's been here for THREE YEARS!!!"
Data nodded, "Our sources suggest that the Humanoid Federation has built a ship, with a guidance system designed to track it. Unfortunately, it was stolen by an Outlaw, with the moniker 'Hot Ice Hilda'."
"AN OUTLAW HAS THE GALACTIC LAYLINE!!!" Dash screamed more.
Data shook his head, "She still has to collect information, from various ruins, and use that to pinpoint its location."
Riker shrugged, "The Outlaw jumped the gun, as she stole it before the Space Forces could finish coding the navigation. If we get our hands on that ship, and incorporate our own data," Sparing a glance at the Android, for sharing the name of a fairly common word. "into the vessel, we should be able to trace the coordinates. Then use the ship to penetrate it's defenses."
"Now," Data eyed Lady Dash, "How do you know of it? I assigned Jean-Luc the task of locating it." And he wasn't one to gossip about his assignments.
R.D. took in a breath, as deep a breath as she could. Then let it out. "You know how all us, of the Villam Mega System, have a similar biology? How we appear to be spliced together?... Well the Galactic Layline did that."
Dash sighed, "It even forced all races into a state of peace and cooperation! By imprinting their genetics with Pony Values."
Riker gaped, "You mean... that isn't natural for your species?"
Scootaloo sighed, "The Galactic Layline is a short cut." The filly tried to explain, "We didn't know the extent of it's power... my crew just tried to keep it out of the hands of our enemies... I don't... I don't remember everything, stupid block...
"But I know it grants wishes. We wanted peace... we didn't think about the moral implications of asking to end war... and the thing... it... what it do?" She looked at Dash.
Scootaloo knew it was bad, but it was one of the "Adult Traumas" the block protected her from. After all, it was her crew's fault. She, personally, was captain of the ship that found the Galactic Layline.
R.D. sighed, as more Admirals walked over at the commotion. She realized it was her duty to explain just what they were up against. She might not have been their, making the wishes, but she saw the aftermath.
"The Galactic Layline," Rainbow tried to stress, "is dangerous. All wish granting contraptions are dangerous. But this thing doesn't have rules or limits. It gives you exactly what you want, however it has to, regardless of how unethical or evil the methods are. It is a truly neutral machine. That could potentially destroy the entire Galaxy as we know it.
"A couple stupid foals, fresh out of school, before being thrown into war after war, asked it to end the fighting. So the thing brainwashed everyone to have pony values. You have any idea what a violation that is?
"But it didn't stop there. Some of the crew felt like outcast, so it altered the genetics of every species in the Galaxy. That way, EVERY CREATURE, was the same. The only reason why we maintained our different races, is because ponies value diversity. But those races are superficial, as we're all the same species.
"Some of the kids were Yokai and Demigods, who feared watching their friends die. So it made death, ITSELF, irrelevant. While still controlling the population. After all, ancestors becoming wisp, and choosing when to reincarnate themselves, is a lot less messy then just making everything live forever. We even keep our old bodies, regardless of the species we're born from.
"The only reason some ponies even bother with Rejuve pods, is because Starfleet refuses to let us maintain our old rank if we reincarnate ourselves... despite having the same DNA, and even memories once we reach adulthood."
Picard chose not to comment on that. He understood it was a sore spot for ponies, that Wisp didn't have any rights, at least, not any connected to their past lives.
Lady Dash continued "The Galactic Layline, in the wrong hands, could rewrite the entire Galaxy!!! We need to call in every planet Buster we can find, to destroy it! Otherwise, who knows what evil it will do, this time."
Dash looked at Data, "I got some connections, that I can use, to track down the Galactic Layline. I'll even Pinkie Promise, to send back any information I find. But I got a good lead, and don't think a Starfleet vessel flying through the Terran Empire, will be celebrated by the Humanoids."
Data thought on it, for all of a nano second... which was actually a good length of time for an Android to debate with themselves. "Make it so."
Author's Note
CODEX, Villam:
● Forms:
All inhabitants, of the Villam Mega System, have 3 basic forms.
• Feral Form:
Which, is usually some ponified creature. However it can be a different Lower Animal, of any species.
This form is usually as small as the traditional animal, or smaller.
• They are typically faster, and harder to injure.
This form usually has some kind of "Racial Magic", which is typically a biological "super power" fuelled by magic.
• Humanoid Form:
Which mostly resembles an ordinary human, but sometimes has more animal like features (like hooved legs, cat ears, wings, or a tail). They can also have more pastel colored skin tones, but not always.
This form typically stands between 5 to 7 feet.
This is the physically weakest form, and easiest to injure. However, they make up for that, in the versatility and power of their spell casting. Able to channel magic, with their whole body as the focus.
While in this form, users can control the natural elements, and even combine them. Through channeling their magic and guiding it in very specific dance moves.
• Anthro Form:
Which can be the native form, of some species. However, usually it resembles some kind of bipedal animal. More Rarely they are similar to Centaurs, with 4 legs, but a humanoid upper body. And Sometimes they have very alien appearances.
They usually stand around 7 to 9 feet tall.
This form is physically stronger, with greater endurance and durability.
They have access to both their racial powers, and their humanoid powers, but to a much lesser degree then either.
● Villam Spell Casting:
• Elemental Bending:
Villam can harness their magic into raw elements. Even control that naturally occurring element. Different elements result in a different manifestation of powers. With those powers being similar to the children's shows "Avatar the Last Airbender" and "Naruto". These Elements Include: Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Lightning, Ether, Light, and Darkness. And largely work like the "Jutsus" or "bending" they are based on.
Villam can learn Jutsus / Spells from most of these fields of magic.
Those who can convert their Magic into Electricity, can send out shocks or lightning.
This allows them to directly tap into the most raw form of Magic. Not the most elegant, but definitely the most destructive. It could be used to duplicate attacks from "Dragon Ball Z" and "Yu Yu Hakusho".
Can move objects, within 5 feet of themselves, with their mind. Masters of this power can levitate hundreds of items at once, and hundreds of tons. Those that specialized in this can learn to levitate things within 120 feet of themselves, but that takes a lot of Magic.
However, a few legendary Villam can levitate anything within their natural level of sight, no matter how far away. These Villam can pull star ships out of the air, from their place on the ground. Even crush them.
Can create a shield of pure telekinetic energy. From around their bodies, to small walls.
Commanding darkness, and Similar to the shadows themselves. Like the Jutsus of the Nara clan (from Naruto) or Shadow Dancers from "Dungeons and Dragons".
Which allows trained Villam to travel through shadows. To sink into them, into the realm of shadows, and move great distances. Spying on the real world from inside a shadow, and even able to move between them. Shadows work much like Portals to them.
The better trained in this power can sink into the floor, entering the shadow realm without need of direct access to a shadow, and can move apart from them. Moving across surfaces as a shadow, with nothing casting it.
Others can turn into a fog, made of shadows. Which can be used to make them temporarily invulnerable to anything but light and fire.
Some can train their shadow to move as if a separate limb. One they can stretch out to great distances. Although the shadows they manipulate, must be connected to their own shadow, in some way. A great weakness with this, is they can feel others touching their shadow. So it can be used to injure them.
Masters of this power, and only masters, can even control their own shadow if they aren't touching it. Say, if they are at a great height, and their shadow is being cast at the ground below.
Bending light let's them create complicated illusions. Similar to the Illusion spells from Elder Scrolls. They can be used to create light, turning invisible, or just blending into their surroundings.
• Combining Elements:
This allows for more complicated spell casting.
grants additional ice powers. Even traveling through Ice mirrors, like Haku from "Naruto".
Allows for plant manipulation. Able to grow plants instantly, from a mere seed, and control their movements.
Can create or control lava based Jutsus.
Allows for something similar to "blood magic". They are able to control the bodies, and even the minds, of any creature with blood.
Allows for individuals to have Magneto, from "X-Men", level magnetism powers. As well as Toph's "Metal bending" from "Avatar the last Airbender". And even the ability to forge metals together in seconds.
This allows for minor Technomancy, the control of electronics. Although doing so requires greater focus, then a natural born Technomancer.
This also allows for momentary burst of super speed, mostly for charging forward.
This combination allows for two major abilities.
A "Henge" works very similarly to a transformation Jutsu, from Naruto. As they don't gain the abilities of the creatures, or objects, they turn into.
They can't alter their density, despite altering their weight and size. So they don't become stronger, weaker, or any more or less durable. They also maintain their level of Perception, even when in the form of something with no eyes or ears. They can also use these henges on others. Although they must initially touch what they change, their is no limit in how far away it can get.
These act near independently, although in truth they are controlled by the user's own subconscious. Through that link, the clones transfer all information they gather, back to the original. Though only upon being dispelled, or destroyed.
These constructs have no range limit, of how far they can venture from the original. This is largely based off the Naruto "Shadow Clone Jutsu".
● Reproduction:
Villams have both male and female reproductive organs. They don't usually have traditional boobs, although they can. They have 8 nipples, 2 on their chest, and 6 going down their stomach. They also, always, have male genitals. Their anus is, in reality, a vegina. With a very sensitive nerve wall.
Villam have a similar reproductive cycle, to the Asari. Taking a sample of the "Father's" magic, not their biology. Then incorporating that in an offspring. In the Villam's case, they lay anywhere between 1 and 12 eggs.
Villam sperm isn't actually sperm, but a nutritional goo. When frequently exposed to a grow fetus (before the egg hardens and is laid). The children grow into healthier, smarter, and stronger hatchlings. They would even have greater magical reserves. Villam sperm acts more like plant fertilizer. Although it is still a pleasurable sensation to orgasm.
It didn't really matter what the species of the "Father" is, as that has no effect on the eggs. Nor does the offspring have their father's DNA, like with most species. The child is typically the mother's species.
In Villam, the balls are wear eggs are created, some move up near the Stomach, when a Villam decides they want to have kids, and a magical sample is taken from a "Father".
Villan don't need to poop, rather their body disintegrates all waste matter, and uses it to fuel their Chakra Pathways.
● Life Cycle:
Villam have a life expectancy of 142 Cycles, by the Galactic Standard Calendar. That's 511 Earth years. However even that isn't the end of a Villam.
When a Villam dies, their chakra gathers together, and leaves their body. Taking their conciousness with it. These balls of Chakra are called "Wisp".
They are able to appear as beings similar to Force Ghost. In order to communicate with the living. However, they are more vulnerable in that state.
Wisp can choose to reincarnate themselves, by entering an Egg in a Living Villam. Which doesn't require a father.
Villam consider it a great honor for a Wisp to choose them, to reincarnate themselves. Even though it is considered rude for the Wisp to do so, without asking, it is still treated as a sacred thing. And that the parent merely needs to work with the child on their manners.
When the Former Wisp hatches, they maintain their original species, and even their coloring. Not actually taking anything from the mother besides their egg.
The Former Wisp will have only a vague awareness of their past lives. Recalling key moments, but not the details. As they age, they will remember more and more of their lives. Which will fully unlock when they turn 30.
There is a debate amongst scholars, about what matters more: Nature, Nurture, or Past Life. As to how the child will turn out. When in reality, it is a combination of all three.
● Passive Abilities:
• Enhanced Senses:
• Multi Surface Walking:
• Environmental Immunity:
● Demonic Energy:
Villan are artificially created from splicing several different Species, not just ponies. They have also been grafted with Demon Energy. Which their bodies can't normally handle.
This energy can be accessed, and come out in the form of Saiyan-like transformations... but that can potentially damage the body.
By channeling their demonic energy, a Villam's Chakra output doubles. As well as their physical strength, speed, and durability. They even gain a temporary healing factor. As their body repairs the damage of the transformation NEARLY as quickly as it can be inflicted.
However, the more strain it puts on their body, especially with maintaining their healing factor, is difficult for most. Thankfully, they can train, to withstand this form.
Channeling their demonic aura, triggers a slight transformation. Darkening their fur, and often making their Chakra aura visible.
This first transformation is called "Necro Form". Although the pony Villam will often call it "Necro Pony".
Tapping further into their Demonic Heritage, increases their power by the factor of an "S" Rank Demon. Even turning the weakest of them into Planet Busters.
Their demonic energy leaks out from their bodies, like flames, and melts away much of their flesh. However, their healing factor becomes great enough to constantly heal them, keeping them alive through the pain. Though not enough to prevent their bones from being exposed, especially around the head and tail.
This is the most difficult form to master, and can potentially kill those ill prepared for it. Just unlocking this form isn't enough, it requires constant training to maintain it for more then a few minutes. At the end of which, it takes a great deal of willpower not to lose conciousness. However, a select few can stay in this state, permanently, if they choose...
This ultimate form is often called "Super Necro".
● Legal Privileges:
Villam, even former wisp, start earning "Privileges" at 15, and slowly gain more and more legal privileges until they become rights at 30. This way children aren't forced to adjust too quickly to new responsibilities, and their parents can teach them how to adjust to these privileges.
Outlaws, Part 1: So You Wanna be a Spacer
• The Broadcast:
"Today marks the One Thousandth Anniversary of the defeat of the Reapers, and the founding of our Glorious Empire-"
•
• Blue Heaven Station:
"Shut that crap off, would ya?" a Krogan grumbled to the sangheili bartender.
Gene could understand were he was coming from. The Terrain Empire might be a utopia for Humanoids, but not for Aliens.
Not wanting to get involved with politics, despite actually liking watching the festivities on the Citadel, Gene just drank his third glass of Twi'lek Spirits.
He'd have to watch how much of this stuff he drank. It had an almost tea like taste, mixed with fruits. Going down far too smooth... he suppose he should feel insulted the bartender suggested this.
As the bartender changed the channel of the TV, Gene allowed his mind to wander. Not like he hadn't heard similar speeches, for each of the 24 years of his life.
He could only imagine what a being as old as a Krogan thought of it. They could go a millennium without needing to go into a Rejuve Pod. Hell, most Krogans still hadn't been regressed, even once.
This was Gene's first life. He didn't know what it was like to be stuffed in a medical pod, and regressed to a prepubescent... of course, if he stayed on this track. He might well end up going through it as part of the "Re-education" criminals go through.
It was thought that "Pennies", as such regressed criminals are called, was a better legal system. As they were given a more caring, although stricter, upbringing. To try to re-raise them in a better environment... strangely... it seemed to work... Gene was a bit worried he'd be similarly brainwashed if he chose to stay in this lifestyle.
This space station, Blue Heaven, seemed to be a collection of the less reputable species of the universe. There were several of the small, green, and completely mad, Irkens. A group of the war hungry Klingons were gathered around one of the tables. Some Ctarl-Ctarl a few tables down from them, although they were technically classified as humanoid, and as a result were given more rights and even a seat on the Federation Senate.
But there was no shortage of humans, as there never was. Blue Heaven really did seem like a haven for the most unsavory people.
Gene smiled, this was his kind of town. After being stuck on that ship, for nearly a week, this was so much better. He used to love flying as a kid, but now just being on a ship made him nauseous.
He didn't remember coming down with any kind of space sickness his first time out, but he'd been so young then, too young. It was just supposed to be some fun little adventure every kid dreams about. He had been helping his dad fly his ship, on a journey that was supposed to take over a month... just him and his dad, enjoying the stars.
Gene didn't even know what it was they were transporting. His father was a simple merchant, so it couldn't have been overly valuable... someone thought otherwise. When Pirates attacked their ship, Gene was thrown inside an escape pod, by his dad, and launched towards the closest planet... which was near a month away.
He landed on a backbirth, named Sentinel 3, and was taken in by a hacker. The man was a good guy, a single father, but that didn't stop the police from arresting him a few years later.
Ever since Gene had been taking care of his son, Jim. Waiting for the guy to bust out of prison... he hadn't told Jim yet, kept putting it off... the man died in a prison riot nearly a year ago. Gene took another drink. Jim still occasionally asked to visit him.
Now they were out in space, helping some outlaw that tried to kill them. This wasn't the smartest play but it was his only chance. He wanted to get off Sentinel. He wanted to be a spacer like his father. He wanted to get back at those pirates for what they took from him. He wanted to be an outlaw... and this was his only chance.
For some reason this woman offered him and Jim a place on her crew, even a decent cut of the profits. This was his one and only chance... and he was sitting here wallowing because he had a tummy ache... Even on this space station he was a bit nauseous.
He got up, taking his bottle, and sat at Hilda's table.
Hilda looked up at him, studying him closely, with a smirk plastered on her face. She was dressed in purple armor and an eyepatch. Which Gene could only assume wasn't there for a fashion statement, but who knows with this woman.
Gene chugged down his glass. Then refilled it with the bottle. Before passing it to her, "So what's the deal? We must have passed a dozen stations on the way here. If all you wanted to do was refuel there were cheaper places."
Hilda shrugged, smirk still in place. "I know I can trust Swanzo. Besides I have business here."
"Which would be?" Gene eyed.
"Not much really. Blue Heaven is an outlaw station, I'm in the need of a crew to pull off a job."
"A job?" Gene blinked, thinking it over. "So it's not something you can pull off by yourself... I think it's time you told me just what this job is, enough with the secrets!" he glared.
Hilda rolled her drink around in her glass, the gears in her head obviously turning, before answering, "Alright, I'm going after a certain ship."
"A certain ship?" Gene blinked.
"It's a very special ship, one with enough power to dive into an Ether Stream. It's called a Grappler."
"A Grappler spaceship!?" Gene's eyes widened, remembering the ship that killed his father. Grappler ships were originally designed to do construction work in space. It was basically just attaching arms to a starship, but pirates tweaked the idea. Reinforcing them with stronger metals, and making them more quick and agile.
Grappler ships were used for combat now. They helped tear open a shuttle and could keep hold of it for boarding. Some pirates even added weapons for the arms to hold, such as swords and guns.
"If you're interested think it over, but make sure it's what you really want," Hilda grinned. "Cause it sounds to me like you're a bit of a space hater."
"Just mind your own business," Gene snapped, perhaps a bit too defensively.
The last thing he considered himself was a 'space hater'. He loved space. He dreamed about coming out here, and living as a spacer, ever since he was a little boy.
Back then he dreamed about living life out here with his dad, only landing on planets to pick up cargo. His childhood dream, of inheriting his father's cargo business, had morphed into being an outlaw, and hunting pirates, but it still involved living on a ship out in space.
He loved space, he'd get over this little phobia he seemed to have developed, once he got used to being out here again.
Misfits, Part 1: Legacy of the Doctor
Elder Smart Mouth sat in his quarters, watching the daily broadcast. He was called "Elder" by his caravan, but he looked young. It actually be easy to mistake him for a child. Only by looking into his eyes, could you see his years. They were ancient eyes, older then the Galaxy itself. Which wasn't hard, with this Galaxy.
He had the head of a fox, bat-like wings on his back, 4 slender legs, with strange paws at the front... with thumbs. While his back legs were hooved.
His coloring was mostly a bright orange, with a cream white underbelly. Where his lower legs were black, with thick blue squigglies where it met the orange fur, above all four of his knees. Then complimenting the blue of his mane, and across his back, he had blue pads on his paws, and blue hooves.
His main was kept short, and spiky... not helping the misunderstanding that he was a mere boy.
His leathery wings were a bright white, with blue bones showing through the thin skin, and a thick black trim at the edge of the wings.
His cheeks and lower jaw were the same cream color, as his underbelly. While the rest of his face was orange. Well, except for the large number of black freckles around his green, anime style, eyes. With just a tinge of red to the irises. Making them look like mangos.
He was a Lunar Vulpony, the original. Though preferring to be more a spiritual figure for his species, and only tending to those that traveled with him.
He was part of the "Misfits" caravan, traveling in a more limited TARDIS, as wandering adventurers. Accompanied only by his closest friends, and their families. Oh he had a few of his own descendants, living here as well, but they tended to treat him with a bit more reverence then he prefered.
"Honorable Demon-Born," that was just one of his titles, though favored by the Grandson who spoke it.
The boy... no, he wasn't a boy anymore. He was a grown Stallion. He was actually taller then Smart Mouth, by a good three feet. Lunar Vulponies did tend to vary in height. Although they were always adorable, which made it easy to mistake the smaller ones, like the "Demon-Born", as children.
This taller Colt Kit, looked far more majestic. He had a bright white coat, natural orange highlights all over his body, and an orange face over his white muzzle... looking much like an orange Domino mask. The bones of his white wings were orange. As were his paws and hooves. With black pads, nose, and mane. His eyes were a crystal blue.
Everything about him screamed "Look how regal I am!!!" with him unfortunately behaving like the noble he was.
"Has it really been a thousand years?" Smart Mouth asked his descendant. "It seems like only yesterday you were playing in the Garden."
The majestic Colt Kit, gave a not so majestic blush.
"Nearly 4, by the Earth Calendar," informed the boy, so hard to think of him as an adult.
"Yeah, it's pretty nuts." Entered a black and orange descendant. The foxy pony wore a cocky grin, though the natural position of his eyes made it look like he was glaring at everything.
"You were told to wait outside," Eyed the white one.
"You realize, We're the same rank." the black one gave a true glare.
"Children," The oldest, and by far the smallest of the three, gave a sigh. "I chose you as my primary Assistants, because of your maturity and level headedness."
Both Colt Kits blushed, and looked down at the ground, guiltily. All Lunar Vulponies, like all ponies, had fairly immature personalities. They tended to act more like 7 year olds, to the point gods of death had rules about not sending "bad" ponies, into hell dimensions. As Ponies, even the bad apples, were far too innocent to truly understand. They had the emotional range of dogs, despite normally having IQs of 200.
"White Fang," Smart Mouth looked to the white one. "Seeing as, unlike Instant Kill," nodding briefly at the black one, "You don't often see me just to chat, I take it you had a reason to enter my quarters."
Fang blushed even deeper, realizing he was being indirectly scolded for not visiting as much as he should. The Demon-Born was basically the father of their entire race... and he tended to act like it.
Regardless, Fang managed to deliver his message. "Just wanted to tell you, We've reached the Dragon lands. Elder Spike has departed, with his herd."
•
The Reapers, through trying to contain the Doctor, had captured entire Mega Systems, made up of dozens of star systems orbiting the same colossal star. Forming an entire Star Cluster, of worlds the Doctor favored.
He used these planets as Refugee worlds, and kept a close eye on them. These were intended for the survivors, of the Last Great Time War, to rebuild. A gift from the Doctor, for those that lost their worlds in that horrible conflict.
Species that's very planets were wiped from existence, yet a handful of survivors remained, despite having no planet of origin.
After the Doctor brought the Refugees to these worlds, the Fates had worked overtime to re-establish their history. While the Doctor popped in and out, protecting the planets. Although he refused to interfere with their development... or at least... he tried.
The Reapers had taken the various Mega Systems hostage. Bringing them into the Humanoid Galaxy, and placing them at the very center, for better defence. They threatened to destroy the worlds, should the Doctor interfere... unaware the Doctor already made plans for this.
"The children of the Doctor" or rather, the descendants of his granddaughter, Susan, had made a bit of a Splash throughout history. The Doctor ended up having to give them guidelines, to stop them from accidentally destroying the universe.
Not through any malicious intent... but they wanted to be Heroes, like the Doctor... and could wind up doing more harm then good.
They made their own TARDISes. Which stood for "Teleportation and Relative Dimension Interior Space". Based on the Doctor's own Time Machine... although far more limited.
They couldn't travel through time... well not to any true extent. More like send who ever activated the Machine, back in time, to their previous body, by a few hours. Mostly the ships were just used to teleport around the Galaxy.
Even the internal dimension the shrine was bound to, wasn't nearly as big as the Doctor's TARDIS... although still much bigger on the inside, then it's simple shrine like exterior.
•
Trained by the Doctor's last face, and trusted to save the universe from the Reapers... where he couldn't. The students of the Doctor had kept peace for thousands of years.
These students were chosen, because they were born with an abnormal magical manifestation. This was called a "Class" and worked much like something straight out of Dungeons and Dragons.
Their magics had spawned in unusual powers, normally not found in their species. As a gift from the universe itself, for proving themselves worthy in a past life.
Most of those kids chose to group together in teams, and sail the Galaxy in their own private Uzumaki TARDISes. Much like their teacher had in his youth. Saving worlds as freelance heroes.
These students act as the "Special Forces" of the Doctor's Children.
Living inside their own TARDIS, with their own families. There was one TARDIS, which had been proactively exploring the universe, for 3000 years before the Reapers became public knowledge. They are a group of wandering adventurers. Dedicating their lives to the philosophies of their mentor, The Doctor themselves.
The Original crew are often called "Elders". Each Team having their own wing, with at least 10 teams per TARDIS, and 8 people, per team. Then each team had their own housing deck. With every member having their own wing, for their family clans that have formed over the centuries.
Sometimes, Time Lord Looms, would be used to help these individuals have families, When they normally would have genetically incompatible partners. Or no partner at all. Which spawned asexual subspecies.
•
The Misfits were the Doctor's star pupils, having unlocked the limits of their powers. Which granted them all near immortality and eternal youth.
These, original students, came from the Villam Galaxy. Which was largely populated by Anthropomorphic animals, or simply ones that could talk. While most of the original students had long since retired from adventuring. Choosing to teach others, like themselves, from all over the Galaxy, by opening schools of their own. Choosing to enjoy their retirement, now that the Reapers were gone.
However, the TARDIS ship "The Misfit", still sailed the Stars. Sending out its teams of founders, and those that follow them, out into the Galaxy, to save lives. These Misfits are heralded as saviors of the Galaxy, spoken about in terms of myth and legend... and may the gods have mercy on those that know they're real.
Dragons... were not affected by the power of the Galactic Layline. As they weren't technically "Sapient" lifeforms. They were actually above that, better then that. Dragons were categorized as "Entities", one step below Celestials. Living planets were Entities, Yokai were Entities, Time Lords were entities.
And now... so were ponies. It was weird to think about. The biggest mark of an entity was not, in fact, their ridiculously long lifespans. Or even their planet destroying power levels. But actually their ability to cheat death. Oh they could all die, but it was hard to keep them dead.
Frost Demons like to boast about how they are "Above Sapients", but they weren't even real demons. They might live for over ten thousand years, with their weakest members being able to destroy moons. But they were still mortal.
Dragons... were not mortal. If they die, they could just build themselves a new body. It may take a hundred years, but they weren't bound by mortality.
Torch was still getting used to Ponies joining their ranks. It had been about 3000 cycles, since then, but it was still mind boggling. A dragon is slow to adapt, as they were forever unchanging. So such large divergence from the status quo, was hard for elder dragons to wrap their heads around.
A machine, of all things, had turned simple mortals into true entities. Their "wisp" forms proved that.
The other dragons didn't even think it shameful, to form "herds" with these former creatures. Given that entities will often breed with each other. While breeding with Sapiens was considered on par with bestiality. Dragons of the Villam Mega system, often found themselves mating with their fellow Entities.
Speaking of-
•
"Yo Torch!" The elder dragon looked down, at a tiny Earth pony, with a green Mane. "Have you seen Smolder?" the stallion asked.
Torch snorted some smoke at the wannabe "Surfer Dude". The guy's very cutie mark, was of Sea turtles.
"Why are you talking to me?" Torch grumbled.
There were far too many Ponies, in the Dragon Lands, nowadays.
"Woh, no call for the attitude," Sandbar rolled his eyes. "Smolder took one of those pregnancy potions. As she was hoping our next kid would be a Hooves Drake."
"Drakehooves," Torch automatically corrected. It irritated him, to no end, when ponies got the names of the various dragon species wrong.
Not that that mattered. The pregnancy potion made it so the mother gave birth to her own species. These idiots could never make a Drakehooves from that. Smolder would just lay more Ironscale eggs.
"Hello," Sandbar waved his hoof, up at the giant dragon. "You drifted off there, big guy."
Torch growled, "Just cuz your married to one of our nobles, doesn't mean I won't eat you."
"Geez," Sandbar rolled his eyes. "Fine, Mister Grumpy. I'll be going."
Torch blew more smoke at his retreating form.
•
"You always get so nervous during the Dragon Migration." Gabby smiled at her mate. Finding his fidgeting adorable. While nuzzling him close.
She had to bend down, given Spike was a good 2 feet shorter then herself. Spike had always been short. His body was slender, with his baby fat long gone, and his limbs longer, and gangly.
Where as Gabby's Anthro Form, looked much like her Feral Form... but was easier to walk on two legs.... and... she had obvious breast... Why does a bird need such ridiculously large breast? Her dick was also more obvious, though that might just be because she was walking upright.
The Villam of Planet Equus were all nudist. While the other races tolerated it... even appreciated it.
Gabby preferred her Anthro form. For the physical strength it gave, and the magical spell casting she dabbled in. A Villam's human form might have more powerful magics, but she preferred a combination of strength and magic. Plus the Anthro form was a more familiar shape.
Griffins' original form, the Feral form, might be even more familiar... but it didn't have access to their spell casting powers. Just their Sonic Shriek ability. Which the Anthro form had access to both, albeit to a lesser degree.
•
Meanwhile, Thorax was walking on Spike's other side, opposite Gabby. And was nearly as big as Gabby... despite being a quadruped. He was absolutely HUGE!!! But that was a matter of course, with Royal Changelings.
Changelings were the only Sapient creatures, whose form wasn't altered by the Galactic Layline... as, given their nature, they could already turn into anything they wanted.
A Changeling's form, or rather their already flexible form, was deeply rooted into their magic. Just like how Griffins maintained their hoarding instincts, when they were uploaded with pony values. It was a powerful mutation of their magic. The Layline couldn't override that, and still give Scootaloo's crew what they wanted.
Changelings already branched off into hundreds of subspecies, back when they ascended into their "Reformed" State. They absorbed the magic, from the environment around them, and transformed into different species of bug horses.
There were Spiders, Crickets, Bees, Moths, Wasps, and so many more. Like the Forest Lings, who had moss and branches growing out of them.
Thorax was a "Fae Beetle". As were all the lings that came from him. As Royal Changelings laid eggs of their own subspecies.
Most Changelings didn't even have genders, unless they wanted to have specific parts... which they normally didn't have, given they couldn't reproduce or use the bathroom... or even need to drink. Anything they ate was atomized by their magical pathways.
Only Queens could even get pregnant, and they reproduced asexually. Laying a dozen or so eggs, once a month, with no need of a father.
What the Layline did give them, as it had with all other Mortals of the Villam Galaxy, was the ability to become wisp, and a boost to their spell casting powers, but that's about it.
The important thing was, they were both here, as they always were.
•
As For Spike himself, he was where he usually was, walking in between Gabby and Thorax... and feeling dwarfed by them.
Equus Dragons were usually about the size of Anthro Griffins. Maybe a foot taller, on average, but Spike was a mere 5 feet, to Gabby's 7.
Poor nutrition, in his youth, stunted his growth. The ponies thought they could feed the baby dragon high protein plants (like tofu and beans) but what he needed was the left over magic, found in meat.
The ponies learned this, after Smolder yelled at them.
Spike had learned a lot about being a dragon, from Smolder.
He learned Equus Dragons, where called "Equus Dragons". And that they were third in the hierarchy of the Dragon nation.
Equus Dragons naturally stand between 7 and 8 feet. Rarely smaller or bigger.
Although they could change their size, to as big as a skyscraper, or as small as a flee. They could all breathe fire, and fly with their tiny wings.
One in 100 eggs were female... to the point it was considered a genetic defect. The fact all Dragon males could get pregnant, helped this bigoted belief fester.
Each clan had their own abilities, and even a slightly different biology... which often came out as some kind of unique trait, or super power.
Like Spike's ability to store, or send, items through his flame. Smolder and Garbles impenetrable scales. Even Ember's tusks. All of them were a different trait, from a clan. With the Father's clan usually determining what the trait was. Although, sometimes, the whelp would be born with both parents' traits. Which they would then pass to their own children.
Equus Dragons were different then "True Dragons". Who were second in command, in the Hierarchy. These are what creatures thought of, when "Dragons" came to mind. Powerful spell casters, as tall as mountains, with the strength to lift continents.
Unlike Equus Dragons, These dragons coloring determined what clan they came from. As well as what type of element they could unleash with their breath attack (not just fire).
While some clans mattered more then others. Such as the Black Dragons, the White Dragons, the Silver Dragons, and the Gold Dragons. Those were the most influential of their clans.
There were fabled myths about "Platinum" Dragons, but such dragons supposedly went extinct, thousands of years before Spike was hatched.
At the very top of the Hierarchy, were the Eastern Dragons. Long reptiles, with 4 short legs. They could fly, without wings, and crush worlds with a passing thought. With some effort, they could destroy entire Star Clusters.
Although they never would, for these dragons were known for their Wisdom and Mercy. Though rare, they were praised to the point of near worship, by all lower dragons.
•
The Dragon migration was important. All dragons felt the call, the need to return to the place where their egg was laid (not hatched but originally laid)... the need to find a mate.
Spike's entire body burned from the inside. It wasn't so bad, yet, but he knew, as time went on... he'd be near incoherent, with the need to breed. That's why Gabby and Thorax were here.
They might not be able to impregnate him, the traditional way, but they could spend the week "Bumping uglies." In order to keep Spike relatively calm.
An entire Week of doing nothing but fucking and eating... Spike wanted to cry with embarrassment.
Thankfully this only happened once every 500 years. So it wasn't unbearable.
Spike even planned to take the pregnancy potion. Mixing both Gabby's and Thorax's blood into it. That way Spike could have a child of all three of their's.
The Potion was a Zebra brew, so it worked wonders for all species. It insured the children would have traits of their fathers, but they'd be born as their mother's species. To make sure the child would be healthy.
This is how Spike spawned an entire clan of Equus Dragons. And he was looking forward to adding more to his species.
He'd have to leave the eggs in the communal nest, until they hatched. So he'd be stuck in the Dragon Lands for a month. Two, if you count how long he'd be pregnant. During that time, Thorax would have to lay his own eggs. But they had a plan for that.
•
Spike finally found them a clearing, and wasn't able to stop himself from commenting, "Not very Romantic," as he did every Migration. He frowned at the sight of boulders, and the nearby lava streams. Although the spot he chose was far enough away from them.
"We'll make due," Thorax assured him. This would be their home until the eggs hatched.
While Spike marked his "scent", by scorching the border's of the area with dragon fire, Gabby pulled out a small Rock. It was about the size of her fist. Before placing it in the center of the boarders Spike set up. She then pushed a button, on the rock, and RAN back from it.
Thorax smiled at her antics, as the rock quickly grew to the size of a 2 story house. Although, on the inside, it was about the size of a small moon.
Not a moment after the Hive was set up, did Pharynx come flying out.
Once the elder, but smaller, changeling reached them, he too said what he did every Migration. "WHY DO YOU KEEP MOVING THE HIVE!!!" He didn't really ask, for he knew the answer.
"The Hive was designed to be moved," Gabby fluttered back, all cheerful, as she always was.
Pharynx just grumbled to himself. Before giving his report. "Many of the Dragons have already started grinding on their partners. Completely disregarding the lings assigned duties!"
Thorax smiled, "Which is why I gave them the week off. Dragons can't be expected to focus when they're..." he tried to find the words.
"This horny?" Pharynx deadpanned.
Thorax blushed, "Yes well... their partners need to help them out. So of course they can't come into work. Did you make sure all lings had a healthy supply of Pepper-up potions?"
Now Pharynx blushed, "Yeah, the Smart Mouths made as much as they could. Should get us through the week without any ling cramping or chafing."
Thorax nodded, just as Spike joined them.
Gabby grinned, "Come on my scaly hero. Let's get you inside." she winked at him. Causing the Dragon to blush.
Smut Part 1: Dragon Season, Part 2
Author's Note
Just cuz this story will focus more on things like Plot, Character Interactions, and Lore, doesn't mean there will be no Smexiness. I know what's expected from a story like this.
But because I suck at sex scenes. I asked a friend to help me out. This chapter was written by them. Although they wish to remain anonymous.
Sex scenes will be rare, but they will happen.
Smut Part 1: Dragon Season, Part 2
Spike followed Gabby through the halls of the hive. He was aware that they were occasionally passing some changelings, and some dragons, and Thorax was behind them awkwardly chiding them for doing this in a public space. Which was probably futile.
But all Spike was paying attention to was the figure in front of him, as Gabby swayed her hips as she walked, her butt moving side to side in an exaggerated strut, mesmerizing him. She would look back from time to time, giggling at his reactions.
By the time they arrived at their room, Spike was already rock hard. He entered the room after her, stopping inside as she sat on the bed. Her own cock was half hard, and she smiled up at him, and behind Thorax came in the room and closed the door. “Well, what are you waiting for?”
Spike, who was normally a lover who knew how to take it slow and how to put his lovers first, nearly pounced on her, pressing his lips against hers in a hungry kiss. His claws groped at her body in between the kisses, Gabby smiling and giggling against his mouth. Between the two of them, Gabby's now hard cock pressed right next to Spike's own.
Spike broke the kiss smiling and licking his lips, and began to lick at her neck and further down, his mouth searching her large breasts for her nipples. Gabby might not have known what good such large breasts were normally, but when it came to making Spike happy, they definitely passed the test.
As she moaned a low moan, she looked over to see Thorax. He had stepped closer, but not too close, and she raised her hand and beckoned. “Come and join us, Thorax.”
Thorax smiled and stepped over, his tall quadrupedal form now high over the two lovers sitting on the bed, even as Spike was continuing to grope and kiss her voluptuous form, distracted.
Gabby looked up at Thorax, and specifically, to his lower abdomen, which was featureless, as it normally was. “No,” She said, and caressed his undercarriage. “Join us here...”
Thorax licked his lip, appreciating Gabby's teasing, but he knew what she meant. In a lick of green flames, his lower abdomen changed to form the cock and balls he usually used, which was already erect. But even though it couldn't be seen, behind them, nestled between his legs, his pussy also formed. And then, just like equus dragons and villam, Thorax joined Gabby and Spike in their genital configuration.
He leaned down to give Gabby a kiss, just a chaste peck for now, but Spike broke his concentration from Gabby's form, pulling his head back and lifting it up, looking up at Thorax's large form. Thorax smiled for a moment, and Spike returned it, then leapt up, pulling Thorax into a heavy kiss, pushing his tongue into Thorax's mouth. Thorax allowed Spike's pulling to pull him forward, and he flumped down onto the bed.
Spike wasted no time pressing himself up against his other larger lover, sharing a deep kiss between, as he caressed Thorax's larger, more masculine frame. His hands wandered lower, too, finally gripping Thorax's hard shaft, much larger than either Spike's or Gabby's, since Thorax was larger. He split the kiss, and watched Thorax's expression as he teased his tip.
But very quickly this was becoming not enough.
Gabby sat up watching them this time, teasing her own cock with her hand, when she heard Spike's feral breaths, still restrained just enough to stop himself from straight up rutting anything nearby, and laid a hand on Spike's back. “I think he's ready for more.”
Spike made a throaty noise, before finally speaking up. “Yeah, I'm... I'm very ready.”
Thorax shifted around, a little away from Spike, laying back on his back, as he drew his hind legs up, displaying his pussy for his lover. “Well, Spike,” he said, his pussy flexing in anticipation. “Then I'm ready for you,” he licked his lips, knowing the effect of what he was going to say next. “To fill me.”
Spike's irises twitched with the words, as his instincts cried out to breed, and his cock twitched. He pulled himself over Thorax quickly, prodding his prick at Thorax's pussy, and only after a few thrusts found it's target, pushing his cock all the way into Thorax, as Spike let out a loud throaty moan.
Spike's body cried out for satisfaction, to fill up a fertile vessel, and he began to thrust, somewhat erratically at first, before he found a natural rhythm, his lover's warm insides squeezing his own cock.
But it wasn't enough, because Spike's own pussy burnt with need, the other half of his dragon breeding instincts was yet to be sated. He curled his back as he thrust into Thorax, getting out the words. “Gabby... gabby...” he chanted softly. “Fill me.”
Gabby licked her lips (beak?). The time to make Spike wait was over, then, and she lined herself up behind him as well, aiming her own cock deftly, and in one smooth motion, pressed herself into Spike as he thrust in, pinning his hips between the two of them.
Spike let out another loud moan, his body and heart crying out. Gabby leaned down, pressing herself into Spike's back as he pressed into Thorax's front, pinning Spike between his two favorite people in the entire universe, the warmth of their forms, the stark difference of Gabby's softness and Thorax's hardness, giving him all he needed.
But while his heart was happy, his body needed more, and he pushed back against Gabby, so that he could thrust into Thorax again, naturally pulling Gabby out of him. He pushed back against her, needy to be filled, but this pulled him less into Thorax. Spike pushed himself back and forth, fucking himself while being fucked.
Gabby tried to keep herself still, letting Spike do the work, but every time he'd pull back she felt the urge to thrust herself, and soon she gave in, pressing back against his hips, pressing him harder into Thorax beneath them both, and soon both of them had the rhythm of thrusting at the same time, the pressure and force slamming into Thorax beneath them as he moaned in pleasure.
The two of them continued fucking each other, with Thorax underneath receiving the force of both, until Spike thrust himself as far as he could into Thorax, moaning, as his orgasm overtook him, and his cock pulsed with thick fertile semen deep into Thorax's form.
Gabby made a squeaking “mm” noise as she felt Spike tense up over her, and the realization of what he was doing put her over the edge too, and she too started coming into Spike, her own cock twitching and spurting.
Thorax bit his lip as he watched his two lovers orgasm simultaneously, until Gabby let out a satisfied breath, and rolled off of Spike, who was much more exhausted. Thorax sat himself up, letting Spike flump forward on the bed.
Spike's insincts and body felt the kind of pleasure that he only really got during the breeding season, finally sated in it's urge to be impregnated.
Or, at least, it would... if Gabby could.
Because while she had a full set of genitals, villam did not reproduce with conventional genetics, they reproduced by taking a sample of their partner's magic, not their dna, and what her dick produced was more of a sweet protein rich solution than semen.
And Spike's body was slowly understanding that, despite just having sex, he wasn't pregnant, and his pussy began to twitch again. In the fugue state, Spike's hormone's surged and he regained his energy, sitting himself up, humping the ground a little. “More...” he muttered, looking up at Thorax, who was sitting up with his cock still fully erect. “Give me more,” he spun himself around, lifting his ass for Thorax, who looked down to see Spike's twitching pussy, as he ground his cock on the sheets lightly.
Thorax stepped up over Spike, placing his forelegs on Spike's shoulders, as he lined his cock, larger like he was, up to Spike's entrance, pressing himself in, not in one smooth motion, but slowly and deliberately.
Spike's tounge lolled out as it felt like Thorax entered into him for such a long time, being more and more full every second, until eventually Thorax had no more cock to give, finally pressing his hips up against Spike's ass.
Thorax pulled himself out the first time, starting slowly, watching Spike squirm underneath him, before thrusting quicker and harder, and quicker and harder, and quicker and harder. Soon he was at a good pace, plunging himself into his smaller lover over and over, his forelegs giving out from the pleasure, as he collapsed down further onto Spike.
Gabby watched from the sidelines, letting her heart rate return to normal, her own cock flaccid, covered in the mixture of her own and Spike's fluids, she reached over for a potion, drinking it slowly as she watched Thorax rail his smaller partner.
Thorax's own orgasm was getting so close, the fucking he just received from Spike priming him to shoot quickly, and he cried out a surprisingly high moan as his orgasm washed over him, his own liquid spurting into Spike's waiting pussy, as his back legs gave out too, collapsing entirely onto his boyfriend's body.
Spike panted from beneath, his own orgasm subsiding, having made a mess of the sheets this time, enjoying the feeling again of Thorax, one of the loves of his life, pressing down upon him in an intimate moment mixed with the intense pleasure.
Shortly Thorax pulled his softening cock out of Spike, and flumped onto the bed beside him, as Spike let out a contented sigh, his body's hormones calming down after the second filling he had today.
…
But Changelings also did not reproduce sexually. They laid eggs asexually. So his cum also didn't have sperm in it, even though he transformed it himself.
So Spike's body was once again understanding that this second partner didn't impregnate him either. And Spike pulled himself up again, his own energy coming back, and he stood up off of the bed, looking at his two partners, one rapidly softening, and the other barely becoming hard again after watching her lovers go at it.
“More...” he nearly growled, his frustrated hormones coming back with ferocity.
Gabby downed the rest of her potion and stood up. This was gonna be a very pleasurable week, and she was so grateful she got to experience it with her two lovers.
Outlaws, Part 2: Bio Mom-Droid
Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter. Recruiting, Part 1: The Muscle
After they finished their drinks... Gene was shocked about how... mundane getting a crew was.
Hilda had very specific people in mind, talking with various Captains she knew. In between, while she was waiting for the Captains to show up, she sat at a table. Hilda just put a sign up... and started doing interviews.
•
The first person that met Hilda's high standards, as she had dismissed ten outlaws before him, was a Krogan. Though not the one from the bar.
He was easily passed 7 feet tall, though no where near 8. An amphibious lifeform, made of pure muscle. With the occasional patch of rock-like scales, and a lama sized hump behind his head. His face was a cross between a man and a toad. Big jaw and all.
Overall, a truly ugly creature... that radiated power. But that wasn't what attracted Hilda to him. The key difference, between another Krogan she had dismissed. Was his dress.
He hadn't even taken off his armor, for the purpose of hanging out at a bar. Since guns were outlawed, he was strapped with knives and swords. He had a bag of holding on his belt. Implying he was ready to leave at a second's notice.
He wasn't looking for adventure. This lifestyle wasn't about glory or money. You could tell by his eyes... this life was about living free.
"Urdnot?" Hilda recognized a symbol on his armor. "Didn't think your clan often leaves that Dyson Sphere Starfleet gave you."
"Few Krogans do," The toad thing grunted.
That was true enough. Although most Krogan that leave the Sphere, end up as either Pirates or Outlaws.
From what Gene heard, their Dyson Sphere was a joint project by the Terrans and Wizards. A way to contain the Krogan, and prevent them from multiplying across the Galaxy.
Each Krogan female is capable of laying a thousand eggs, per birthing. And it only takes 8 years for those eggs to mature into fully grown adults. The equivalent of a 25 year old human, by the Earth Calendar. Then the Krogan proceed to live an extra twelve hundred years, by the Galactic Standard Calendar.
In other words they had ridiculously long lives, and an even more ridiculous birth rate.
Without their natural predators, Krogan had a bit of a population control problem. So the terrans built them a Dyson Sphere, and the wizards filled it with extension charms. So that each Krogan household, the size of a single doorframe, contained a whole small town inside. With hundreds of house elves, per family, to help take care of all the children. Even educate them.
Each condo/village came with their own Uzumaki farm... with the house elves preparing the food.
Gene had seen documentaries about the Dyson Sphere. It was so freaking big, and with the millions of trillions of extension charms... it looked like a ghost town. Yet at least 10 trillion Krogan lived there. With each clan living on a different deck.
"You got a name, Urdnot?" Gene asked, before Hilda shot him a look. Clearly telling him she wanted to handle this one... strange, she didn't mind him talking to any of the other candidates. This one must have really caught her interest.
"Wrikar," The Krogan informed, and Gene took that gibberish to be his name.
•
Gene might not have seen many aliens, in person, but growing up he had seen all kinds of vids starring them. Not to mention that Xenology elective he took in middle school.
His dad thought it was important, for the life of a traveling merchant, that his son wanted to join him in, to at least be able to recognize the different alien species...
And Jim's own dad made sure the boy was educated on the same. Perhaps even in greater detail then Gene. As Jim had taken a few college classes on the topic... back when the Computer Wizard was still raising him. Jim was a child progeny, with a 300 level I.Q.
It was a matter of course, he was in college before most kids entered primary school... Gene remembered the Computer Wizard, being worried Jim might be hacking his grades, rather then studying. But thankfully was able to cure the boy of that, quickly. The Computer Wizard might not have a problem with cheating the rules... but he wanted his son to actually learn the material.
•
Regardless, there were some particularly bizarre species, that had alway stuck out to Gene. Mgalekgolo, for example, were made up of small orange worms called Lekgolo. That form a single collective consciousness within their colonies, called a Mgalekgolo colony.
Humanoids, of Sol 3, called them "Hunters" during the Covenant War. A nickname they rather enjoyed, as it spoke of their power.
The worm colonies were as strong as Krogans, and after they were exposed to Dragonite... it was found they were strangely adaptable to magic powers. With each having the raw power to destroy a city... at minimum.
Each colony acts as a single individual. Lekgolo are rather stupid on their own, but the more of them there are, in a colony, the more complex their collective thoughts can be.
As a colony of worms, Mgalekgolo have a diet of a variety of minerals... and nothing else. They couldn't even enjoy a cheeseburger.
To protect their colony, and allow for easier movement, Mgalekgolo will bind themselves into a high tech battle suit. Made of extremely dense armor, with various weapons built in, including their trademark plasma cannon... which they use as a club more often then firing.
However, Mgalekgolo have learned to use these cannons to channel their elemental bending powers. Which they have gained, from Lekgolo consuming the odd magic based mineral, they stumble on.
Nowadays, due to knowing what it can do, Hunters will occasionally go out of their way to eat Dragonite, in order to give themselves magic powers. They even have a belief that the more they consume, the stronger their magic will be.
As Mgalekgolo do not have vocal chords, being a bunch of worms and all, they speak by vibrating their bodies. This allows them to mimic any language, although it is difficult for them.
The technology has improved, in a thousand years, so universal translators, and even com radios, can interpret what the vibrations mean.
When a Mgalekgolo colony becomes too big, it will split off into two separate colonies. Which retain all their collective memories. While becoming separate, independent, individuals. Which maintain a strong emotional bond, similar to a "sibling" relationship, with their former colony. These pairs were often called "bond brothers" or even, more weirdly, "mates."
Gene couldn't help but wonder where this guy's was.
The guy, well not really a guy, being a colony of worms and all, but they shaped their armor to give them a bipedal form. Probably to make other races more comfortable... Gene would have given himself extra arms.
The point was... he was alone... that just didn't happen. Bond Brothers stayed by each other's side until they split off another colony. That's just how they were. They always came in pairs. No more, no less.
•
"Where's your brood mate thingy?" Gene carelessly asked. To which Hilda smacked him upside his head.
Gene yelped, then demanded, "What the Hell!!!" while not really asking.
The Hunter eyed him a moment. Then spoke. Gene really did feel the words more then heard them... and not just because of the vibrations in the air. "Dead," That word cut at Gene... he knew what it was like to lose family.
"Pirates?" Was all Hilda asked.
The Hunter nodded, before stating, "I hear you're one of the few Captain's willing to take the fight to them."
Hilda eyed him, "Why not just join Starfleet? One of their major purposes is to take on pirates. You'd even get to explore the galaxy. Likely get better pay, to. Or, at least, more reliable pay."
The worm colony just looked at her. "I don't plan to leave any alive," He calmly informed.
Hilda smiled, "I can respect that kind of ambition."
"What's your name?" Gene asked.
He could feel the worms smile, rather then see, "Exudo Boho Toru."
Author's Note
• Codex,
My version of how Mgalekgolo spell casting works, is a slightly tweaked adaptation of how my Goblin Warlocks work, from my Harry Potter / Firefly crossover "Big Damn Heroes".
Although, as those Warlocks can only combine the elements they have an affinity for. Mgalekgolo can combine any two elements. It just takes years of study and training... and the actual time to cast those more powerful spells is a bit too long to use in a solo fight. As they need time to charge the spell.
Each Lekgolo can only channel a single element, to a very minor degree. Meaning a Lekgolo with a fire affinity can produce a few sparks. However, when combined together into a Mgalekgolo colony, they could channel all elements, to truly destructive degrees.
Their cannon must draw on the worms that channel a specific element, which takes them a few seconds to charge, before unleashing their attack.
• Elemental Bending:
Hunters can harness their magic into raw elements. Even control that naturally occurring element. Different elements result in a different manifestation of powers. With those powers being similar to the children's shows "Avatar the Last Airbender" and "Naruto". These Elements Include: Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Lightning, Ether, Light, and Darkness. And largely work like the "Jutsus" or "bending" they are based on.
Hunters can learn Jutsus / Spells from most of these fields of magic.
Those who can convert their Magic into Electricity can send out shocks or lightning.
This allows them to directly tap into the most raw form of Magic. Not the most elegant, but definitely the most destructive. It could be used to duplicate attacks from "Dragon Ball Z" and "Yu Yu Hakusho".
Can move objects, within 5 feet of themselves, with their mind. Masters of this power can levitate hundreds of items at once, and hundreds of tons. Those that specialized in this can learn to levitate things within 120 feet of themselves, but that takes a lot of Magic.
However, a few legendary Hunters can levitate anything within their natural level of sight, no matter how far away. These Hunters can pull star ships out of the air, from their place on the ground. Even crush them.
Can create a shield of pure telekinetic energy. From around their bodies, to small walls.
Commanding darkness, and Similar to the shadows themselves. Like the Jutsus of the Nara clan (from Naruto) or Shadow Dancers from "Dungeons and Dragons".
Which allows trained Hunters to travel through shadows. To sink into them, into the realm of shadows, and move great distances. Spying on the real world from inside a shadow, and even able to move between them. Shadows work much like Portals to them.
The better trained in this power can sink into the floor, entering the shadow realm without need of direct access to a shadow, and can move apart from them. Moving across surfaces as a shadow, with nothing casting it.
Others can turn into a fog, made of shadows. Which can be used to make them temporarily invulnerable to anything but light and fire.
Some can train their shadow to move as if a separate limb. One they can stretch out to great distances. Although the shadows they manipulate, must be connected to their own shadow, in some way. A great weakness with this, is they can feel others touching their shadow. So it can be used to injure them.
Masters of this power, and only masters, can even control their own shadow if they aren't touching it. Say, if they are at a great height, and their shadow is being cast at the ground below.
Bending light let's them create complicated illusions. Similar to the Illusion spells from Elder Scrolls. They can be used to create light, turning invisible, or just blending into their surroundings.
• Combining Elements:
Combining elements is tricky for Hunters, as they are trying to focus on two types of their Lekgolo, rather then one. However, with great skill and study, it can be mastered. This allows for more complicated spell casting.
grants additional ice powers. Even traveling through Ice mirrors, like Haku from "Naruto".
Allows for plant manipulation. Able to grow plants instantly, from a mere seed, and control their movements.
Can create or control lava based Jutsus.
Allows for something similar to "blood magic". They are able to control the bodies, and even the minds, of any living creature.
Allows for individuals to have Magneto, from "X-Men", level magnetism powers. As well as Toph's "Metal bending" from "Avatar the last Airbender". And even the ability to forge metals together in seconds.
This allows for minor Technomancy, the control of electronics. Although doing so requires greater focus, and long charge times, then a natural born Technomancer.
This also allows for momentary burst of super speed, mostly for charging forward.
This combination allows for two major abilities.
A "Henge" works very similarly to a transformation Jutsu, from Naruto. As they don't gain the abilities of the creatures, or objects, they turn into.
They can't alter their density, despite altering their weight and size. So they don't become stronger, weaker, or any more or less durable. They also maintain their level of Perception, even when in the form of something with no eyes or ears. They can also use these henges on others. Although they must initially touch what they change, their is no limit in how far away it can get.
These act near independently, although in truth they are controlled by the user's own subconscious. Through that link, the clones transfer all information they gather, back to the original. Though only upon being dispelled, or destroyed.
These constructs have no range limit, of how far they can venture from the original. This is largely based off the Naruto "Shadow Clone Jutsu".
Recruiting, Part 2: The Combat Expert
"Do we really need another combat expert," Gene grumbled, as Hilda was interviewing a Sangheili teenager.
The guy was barely legal, and still not old enough to drink. He wasn't even wearing the typical Covenant Armor, but rather some kind of skin tight body suit, under a furry cloak... the fact the thing was so clean, despite being white, told Gene this guy wasn't much of a fighter. No matter how many weapons he strapped to himself... which, admittedly, there were a lot... mostly different kinds of guns and snipers.
Hilda sighed, at Gene's inexperience. She really didn't want to have to train a green horn... but the boy proved himself a competent fighter, and claimed to have flight experience. She did need a pilot, and those who could handle themselves were rare... plus... He had Jim.
Hilda patiently explained, "There is a difference between Muscle and a Combat Expert. Muscle can take a lot of hits, and dish out a lot of damage, but aren't really known for being quick, or inconspicuous. That's what you need Combat Experts for."
Gene sighed, looking at the alien. "So are you, fast? You don't look like you could really blend into the background."
The Sangheili grunted, "Boy, I was fighting against the Reapers, since before whatever backwater, you crawled out of was colonized."
Gene snorted, "Anyone can claim to have fought the Reapers. And even if you did, So what? There are lots of old soldiers in the Galaxy. If you were really worth anything, Starfleet would have picked you up."
The Sangheili sneered, "Not all of us are happy with the table scraps you humans give us. I decided to go my own way."
"Where's your crew?" Gene proved himself competent in other areas, as well. Hilda was planning to ask that very question. "Outlaws, as old as you claim to be, from what I hear, they tend to sail the black for centuries, never leaving their crews side."
"The Galaxy isn't a vid, kid," the Sangheili gave a cruel smirk. His pincer things making the nasty expression. "You won't make too much coin if you stay with one crew."
"NEXT!!!" Hilda called.
The Sangheili stiffened, "What you mean 'Next'!? I'm one of the top weapons experts on this rock!"
"And you just told me," Hilda glared right back. "You hold no loyalty to anyone. I'm looking for a crew, not a band of mercenaries. Thanks for wasting my time."
She turned to her Krogan. Since he was already carrying everything he owned, in his bag of holding, she asked him to stay nearby. But sent the Hunter to the ship. "Now get this filth out of my sight." she ordered.
The Sangheili growled, but Wriker put his hand on the guy's shoulder.
"You heard the Captain," Wriker growled back, "Best remove yourself."
The Sangheili scoffed, jerking his shoulder free, and began stomping away.
•
"That guy gives us a bad name." A... Sangheili? Sneered.
He looked about the other guy's age. Although dressed in looser robes... expensive looking robes. Straight off planet Albein.
The boy seated himself, "Fizo 'Varumai." He eagerly said, holding out his hand. Clearly familiar with human customs. No one else tried shaking hands, and few even introduced themselves before getting into it. "Sorry, but you did say 'Next',"
Hilda smiled, "So I did," shaking his hand. "I've heard of you, your old crew called you 'Snicker-Snack', right?"
The boy grinned eagerly, "Oh wow! Hot Ice Hilda knows who I am!" The kid was gushing like a fan-boy. "That's right, Alice in Wonderland really is my favorite book. And their isn't a stick in existence, that isn't as deadly as a Vorpal Sword, in my hands." He boasted.
Although Gene doubted that. At least the other guy had muscle. This scrawny kid looked like he spent more time reading then anything else.
"At least that's how it used to be," The boy nervously scratched one of his pincer things. "The family that took me in, after I got Rejuved, weren't too keen on my lifestyle."
Hilda smiled, "Heard you were on one of the Terran penny colonies."
"Yeah," even his laugh was nervous. "Got myself arrested, under no fault of my own of course." He winked. Another human expression. Gene wouldn't have noticed, if it wasn't for the fact none of the other aliens, they interviewed, seemed to care for human mannerisms.
"Yet here you are," Hilda smiled.
Fizo blushed, "Too honest, I was trying to give this life up. Live on the straight and narrow. My guardians kinda succeeded in brainwashing me." He admitted.
"So I heard," Hilda nodded. "So what changed?"
Fizo lost his smile, even his nervous demeanor. "My old crew..."
Hilda frowned, "I heard about that."
"Thing is," Fizo sighed, not really hearing her. "They joined me on the straight and narrow. Penny Colonies may be harsh, but everyone their really does want the best for you. The whole, second childhood, is really effective for rehabilitation.
"When our sentence was up, the humans helped us get a job, as a shipping freighter. Not that far from our old smuggling jobs. So it was still something we knew, and could have fun with... The Terran empire really gets a bad rap.
"Anyhow... Pirates thought we'd make an easy mark."
"You want revenge?" Hilda eyed.
"What I want is my family back... even as Pennies, our guardians made sure we got to see each other regularly... even had the same classes together... but their gone... all gone..."
The Sangheili got a look in his eyes. Something cold. Something lethal. And Gene suddenly believed him when he said he used to be one of the deadliest Swordsman in the Galaxy. "I'll settle for revenge."
As fast as that look had appeared, it was gone. As his eyes grew more self conscious. "I know my skills aren't what they used to be... and my body is too soft to make use of them even if they weren't-"
"You're hired," Hilda smiled.
The boy froze, before slowly smiling himself. "Thank you..." he trailed off.
"Don't thank me," Hilda commanded. "You'll be working with him," she nodded at the Krogan, "To get you back in shape."
The Sangheili grinned wider, "Awesome!!! You won't regret this."
The boy pounced to his feet, and started shaking hands with the crew, even the Krogan. Before attempting to dash off.
The Krogan managed to grab him, "You don't know where we're parked." he pointed out.
The kid flashed a knowing grin, "Hot Ice Hilda always parks in Swanzo's shop." He proved, unlike many of the others that wanted to join Hilda's crew, he actually did know a thing or two about her. Besides just her name.
Hilda nodded, "Pack your things, and report there within the hour. I might be here for a while longer, but I want my crew available to leave at a moments notice. I'll let Swanzo know to expect you."
"Right-O Captain!" he gave a human salute, before running off.
•
Wriker sighed, "Damn Squid-Heads," He grumbled, once the boy was gone.
Hilda smirked at him, "That won't be a problem, will it?"
"Nah, I've worked with a few before." Wriker assured.
"What's a Squid-Head?" Gene asked.
Wriker shrugged, "You humans have fan-boys. The Sangheili have Squid-Heads. It's what they call themselves, based on what Humans once called them, during the Covenant War. They are Sangheili fan-boys, for all things human. Absolutely obsessed with human culture. Considering all the shit humans have done to 'aliens', these passed thousand cycles, they can rub some the wrong way."
"Hope you haven't forgotten you're working with humans," Gene commented.
Wriker smirked, "Hot Ice Hilda barely counts as 'human', kid."
Gene glared, "Don't call me a kid!" why was everyone insisting he was a kid. Back on Sentinel, he was hot shit! But out in the black, he was seen as a rookie.
"Then stop acting like one," Wriker chuckled.
Hilda shrugged, "Give the boy some slack, it's only his first life."
The Krogan smirked, "Technically, so is mine."
Gene sneered, "Come on, Krogan live to be like twelve hundred, before they have to be rejuved."
Wriker shrugged, "healthy living, kid."
Recruiting, Part 3: The Specialists
It was a good half an hour, before Hilda seemed even vaguely interested in another candidate. But when she did, she kinda perked in her chair. It was a strange sight to see, coming from her.
A Twi'lek stepped over, taking a seat in front of them. She was a head shorter then Hilda, although far more beautiful. It was hard to find an ugly Twi'lek. She even had the rare blue skin, which was considered a sign of true beauty, for her normally green (or red) species. While the twin tentacles, from the back of her head, dangled to just past her waist.
There was something about her, Gene couldn't place it, but she just... felt... off...
"Hi," the Twi'lek bounced in her seat. All kinds of happy. "I'm Mew'pecaw, but all my friends call me Mew." She introduced herself, but didn't offer her hand.
Hilda grinned. "Don't see many Revanist, making their way as Outlaws."
The Twi'lek sighed, obviously wanting to keep, whatever a "Revanist" was, private. "Don't see many Force Sensitives, period," She confirmed, anyway. There were only a few thousand, in a galaxy of millions of trillions.
Hilda shrugged, "True enough."
The Twi'lek sighed. "Sorry to disappoint, but I'm not a fighter." Hilda did frown, hearing that. Mew continued, "Ya need to get into someone's head. I'm rather good at mind tricks. Best in my class. But my real talent is healing."
Hilda looked interested again, "Could always use a healer. Got any, more traditional, medical training?"
The Twi'lek snickered, "Revanist aren't that different from Jedi. Besides not kidnapping children, from their families, and not pretending we don't have emotions. By the time I was a Padawan, I had several doctorates worth of knowledge." She giggled. "I'd make a pretty spectacular science officer, counselor, and medical Doctor. And that's without any aid from the Force"
She winked. Although it wasn't as bizarre to see on a Twi'lek face, given they were almost human in their appearance, and mannerisms. "Not half bad at forging papers, either."
Hilda nodded, "So we established what you can do. But why do I need you on my crew."
The Twi'lek frowned.
"You don't expect me to hire you just cuz you got some talent." Hilda smirked. "Why do you WANT on my crew?"
Mew shrugged, "I'm a Revanist, I want to be able to help people, and make a little coin on the side."
Hilda sighed, clearly not liking that answer. She was about to dismiss the girl, and lose a very powerful asset... when Gene spoke up.
"Why don't you tell us the real reason," The ginger bordley demanded. "We got enough idiots boasting about wanting coin. Surely you've seen how many of them were thrown out."
The Revanist went quiet, showing there was something she was holding back... how could Hilda have missed that? She must have been too distracted by the fact the girl was a Force wielder. Too quick to brush her away, for fear of this being "Too good to be true".
Mew sighed, not knowing how to voice her feelings. The Revanist temple was more a school, then a permanent place to live. But it was true, Revanist tended to travel in groups. One master, with several apprentices under them. With many of the apprentices, having Padawans of their own.
The temple was really just a place to educate initiates. After they become Padawans... they rarely leave their Masters side. They may live similarly to Outlaws, or adventurers, but they weren't truly a part of those cultures.
"I recently completed my final trial, and have been promoted to Master," Mew explained. "That's normally a title earned after several lifetimes... I got it in three... though I think... it was too early. I'm supposed to spend a lifetime traveling the Galaxy. Get some Wisdom to go with my skill. Then, return to the Temple. Where I will get my own ship, along with a few eager apprentices to look after... It will be some time before I see my people again..." She was lonely. Hilda could see it in her eyes.
"We might not be Revanist," Hilda reminded. "But I want my boat to feel like a family. Suppose I'm just trying to recapture what my old crew had." She sighed, and Gene gave her a funny look.
Mew sighed, "Suppose I'm doing the same."
Hilda nodded, "You're hired."
•
The very next person to occupy the seat... was a humanoid... with a Monkey tail... and quills for hair.
Gene eyed the young man. Most of the people Hilda was hiring were young. People just starting out on their adventure (at least for this lifetime), and looking for a place to belong.
But this boy, "What could we possibly offer a Saiyan?" Gene demanded.
The boy scoffed.
"A lot I imagine," Hilda acknowledged. "Low Class?"
The, far from muscular, Saiyan sighed. "Yeah... not many ships see the value in a Saiyan that can't fight... as if that's all we're good for." He grumbled.
Hilda nodded, "The Saiyan clutches, offer some of the best trade schools in the Galaxy." She acknowledged, shocking the Saiyan that she knew that. "Mind telling me which you were placed in."
The Saiyan slowly smiled, "The Enchanters clutch. I specialize in Caster shells."
Gene jumped in his seat, "You can make Caster shells!?"
The Saiyan's smile became more cocky. "Well, I had to do something to make sure I wasn't a burden in a fight. Although they are mostly for my own use, I wouldn't mind sharing."
"You're hired- OW!!!" Gene yelped, after Hilda smacked him upside his head.
"I'm the one who decides that," Hilda calmly informed. Far too calmly.
Gene groaned, rubbing his head, "But-"
"Any half decent enchanter can make bootleg Caster Shells," She assured. "I'll get you in touch with some contacts, if you need it."
The Saiyan frowned.
"What's your name?" Hilda moved on.
"Pumpki," Informed the boy.
Hilda silently studied the barely grown child. Looking for something particular, in his inexperienced eyes.
"So why do you want to be an outlaw?" She demanded, in the sweetest voice possible.
The boy squirmed, under her gaze. Losing some of his Saiyan bravado. "I... I want to stop being underestimated." 'I want to belong somewhere' the boy thought.
Hilda seemed to overhear his unspoken words. She could see it, in his eyes. "You're hired."
•
A few ass-hats later. Hilda found someone else with that look in their eyes.
"Howdy," The Soong Android smiled. Looking very much like the famous Commander Data, a popular template for his people. He had slightly younger features, but kept that pale golden skin, and unnaturally straight hair. Although his dangled well passed his shoulders. "I'm Upgrade." Soong Androids did tend to have whimsical names.
Gene grinned, "I know a kid that love to meet you."
Hilda sighed, seeing the Synthetics questioning look, "Our Cabin-boy is a Technomancer."
The Android stiffened, more from shock then fear. An intrigued smile slowly spread across his lips. Technomancers were near holy, to Synthetic Lifeforms.
Gene wasn't really concerned with that. Instead, he eyed Hilda... wondering how she knew about Jim.
Upgrade, had no issue spilling all his family's dirty laundry. "I'm one of 10 thousand children." he shrugged. "Typically, an older Android adopts us, and takes a season to 'raise' us. I've been on my own for 2 seasons now.
"Tried going into Starfleet, like my nanny bot wanted... but it was so stuffy and restricting. I love the idea of living on a ship, sailing the Galaxy... but Starfleet isn't where I want to do that..."
Golden eyes studied Hilda's singular one. "I've been listening," The Android leaned forward. "All this noise might be too chaotic for organic ears, but mine are more suited to it. You don't want lackies, unlike these other Captains."
Gene looked around, just now spotting there were a few other Captain's, recruiting people.
"You want an actual crew, a family. Well, I want what your selling," Upgrade insisted. "I know I don't have much, or any, real experience, but I got access to the entire Extra Net, in my head. I would make a good technical officer, engineer, and whatever else you need. I can even help teach this Technomancer you got."
Hilda just had her usual, unreadable, smirk. Before saying, "You're in."
The Confrontation, Part 1: Summoned
It had been a few hours since the young tech kid, went to bed in the ship, and the new crewmembers piled into the docking bay.
While Swanzo wasn't shocked by the strange assortment of people, Hilda recruited. He was curious why Hilda would want such a young kid on her ship. That was just asking for trouble.
The boy didn't even have any tattoos on the backs of his hands, meaning this was his first life. He was about as young as you could get.
Swanzo sighed, really wanting to know what Hilda was getting into... but knowing better then to ask. Hilda wouldn't tell him anything, especially if she was mixed up in something. He already got everything he was going to, out of her.
Looking up from his work. He felt a sudden pick up to the breeze. The Mechanic was worried there might be a crack in the haul of the space station. But then he saw it. A blue box, fading in and out of existence.
"Just what are they playing at!?" Swanzo growled, his metal ball of an environmental suit, storming over to where the box was materializing.
Once it became fully solid, there was a banging sound, as if something heavy dropped. But immediately, when the doors opened, Swanzo snapped, "We have a whole hanger for Teleportation Pods. What you doing here?" He demanded.
A blue Pegasus, in her pony form, stepped out. She held up a badge. "Official Starfleet business," She spoke with a good deal of authority... which was lessoned by the wide eyed filly on her back.
"Admirals Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo! On Official business for the Alien Alliance." The filly eagerly declared.
Swanzo could see the "M" marks on the front of her hooves. Meaning she was regressed for medical reasons. Don't see many ponies choose to Rejuve, instead of just reincarnating themselves.
"She's on sabbatical," Admiral Dash assured. Though didn't explain why the filly was here. Nor why an Admiral of Starfleet was riding in an Uzumaki TARDIS.
Swanzo scuffed, "Blue Heaven is legally recognized as a free state, you have no jurisdiction here. I don't care how high up the chain you are!"
A beagle sized Lunar Vulpony, stepped out of the ship... and Swanzo couldn't stop himself from paling, as 6 identical ones walked out with him. He recognized them, of course.
"Secure the ship," One of them demanded, completely ignoring Swanzo. His duplicates immediately spread throughout the docking bay.
Swanzo gulped, as the Coltkit's counterparts also emerged from the Teleportation Booth. A Sodaroo, an Asari, a Husky Taur, a Kobold... and some kind of nightmarish skeletal creature, burning with purple fog.
The Misfits, what the hell were the Misfits doing here. Just what had Hilda gotten herself caught up in.
The Husky's, far too large, ears twitched. As if he was hearing words unspoken. Looking at the metal ball, with arms, he spoke words that made the Corbonite fear for his friend's life.
"Haunter caught the signal." Spoke the infamous Musky pup, master of the most lethal poisons and acids. "Hot Ice Hilda abducted a child with a class, after attempting to murder his guardian."
Oh Hilda... how could you be that stupid.
•
• Back with Gene:
As Hilda was packing up her things, already having taken down her sign. Gene couldn't help but wonder...
Each crewman Hilda chose, had a look in their eyes. Even the Hunter, who had no eyes, but you could still feel it on him.
Each longed for the freedom of the sky, revenge against the pirates... but there was something more... each wanted, Gene got the impression... a family. They understood what it meant to sign on as crew... much more then Gene did. They were looking for a home... Maybe Gene could understand it. As it was a longing he could relate to... even Jim had that look in his eyes.
•
"What happened to your last crew, anyway?" Gene managed to ask, as Hilda stood up.
"The Pirates killed them," Was her casual response.
Gene tensed, but before he could say anything, Hilda stiffened. Her head turning at the door.
•
"Hilda!!!"
Gene blinked, as almost immediately after Hilda looked in that direction, did something terrifying enter the room. A tiny Equine charged through the bar. Coming straight towards them.
The young ginger almost grabbed his gun, purely on reflex, but thankfully Hilda signalled him to wait. It wouldn't do to break the only rule in a free town. A stray bullet could burst a seal of the space station they were on.
The pony was running over to them. An infectious smile on it's face.
The creature was a pastel brown, with a much darker shade for it's hair.... except for the neon stripes, in both it's hair and on all four of it's lower legs. It had a tattoo of an hourglass, on it's flank... which Gene could easily see, because it was completely NAKED. The only thing it was wearing was thick neon goggles, on it's forehead.
"A... pony..." Gene gulped.
He had heard about these creatures. Supposedly they were overpowered war machines, with the awareness of young children. Because of this, the Space Forces tended to treat them with kid gloves, made of titanium.
A single civilian pony, could easily best a platoon of highly trained space marines, with minimal effort. However, even more terrifying, they couldn't comprehend how powerful they were, nor why other creatures were wary around them...
Although, from what Gene had heard, they were also extremely cuddly living plush toys. Wanting to "be friends" with everyone they met. With boundary issues that rival a Silgrian.
Ponies were a prey race, that were living in a universe were barely anything could rival them, much less hurt them. Yet they were still jumpy and naive.
Jim would probably jump for joy, if he met this guy. But Gene was worried letting him near the stallion. They were danger wrapped in cutesy floof.
"The Misfits Caravan," Hilda eyed Gene. Measuring him, and thankful to see the young man had enough sense to be wary of the deceptively cute creature. "Are some of the most deadly adventurers in the Galaxy, try not to piss them off."
The pony quickly reached them, but despite obviously being a full grown Stallion, only came up to Hilda's waist. Once in front of them, the pony immediately lowered it's chest to the floor, and leaving it's butt in the air. It took Gene a moment to realize it was bowing.
"Captain Hot Ice Hilda," The pony remained bowed.
"Neon Surgeon," Hilda smiled at the creature.
Once she acknowledged him, he quickly stood. Puffing up his chess, and looking... nervous? "The Elders are waiting for you. At your ship, that is... they don't seem happy. It might be best if you hurry back?" He frowned.
Hilda gave her usual smirk, "Gene, Wriker," She nodded at her men. "Let's go."
•
"So who are these ponies?" Gene asked, his arms behind his head.
He and Wriker were walking just behind Hilda, as Wriker insisted was proper, given her higher station to their crew.
The little pony was galloping about a dozen yards ahead. Occasionally, he would stop, look back at them, before running off again, like an over eager puppy on a hike.
"And why are they so important?"
Hilda looked over at Wriker. "Feel up to nursing the space cherry?"
The Krogan smirked, while Gene snapped something, less then proportionate, towards the joke at his expense.
Wriker got an annoying lecturing voice. "The Misfits are ancient, with their Elders being roughly 3000 years older then the Reaper Invasion."
Gene gaped. "They didn't even HAVE Rejuve Pods before the Reapers invaded."
Wriker shrugged, "Technically the previous Federation did," He explained. "But only for about 300 years prior."
"Then how are THEY that old!?" Gene demanded, "Not even Asari live that long!"
"Because they're immortal Planet Busters," Wriker smiled. "Legitimate entities, Just short of Celestials."
Gene snorted, "Please, those things are just myths."
Wriker grinned, "Is that so?"
Gene sneered, "I'm not so stupid, I'd believe an old wives tale. Not even Rejuve pods can resurrect someone, and ain't nothing short of a fleet of battle ships, can even glass a planet."
Wriker shook his head, "Definitely a Space Cherry."
The Confrontation, Part 2: The Trial
Once Hilda stepped into the docking port, Rainbow eyed her for a moment. The Human strutted into the room, a smirk on her face. Acting like the fact her ship was surrounded by angry planet busters, was no big deal.
The Misfits held back. They respected Scootaloo a good deal. It's the reason Rainbow brought her. Child or not, Scootaloo was their former Captain. The Misfits still tended to default to her authority... time to see how far that went.
Dash had used Scootaloo's contacts, to summon the Misfits. As only a TARDIS had powerful enough sensors, to track Hilda's ship, from it's unknown location in the Galaxy.
The Uzumaki TARDIS, was designed to teleport anywhere in the Galaxy. Meaning it's sensors had to touch every spot in the Galaxy at once. Sure, there were defenses against such teleportation pods... but they were expensive, and therefore rare.
Dash wanted to go directly to the XGP, but it wasn't registered. So the Misfits had no way of pinpointing it. They could, however, find Hilda's original ship.
So here Dash was. She couldn't arrest the woman, not in this free state, and truthfully not at all. The Outlaw technically committed no crimes against an alliance citizen, nor in their territory. Still, Dash could question her.
Provided the Misfits kept their tempers in check. They held a soft spot for children with classes. With the Children of the Doctor, signing treaties to let the Misfits Caravan act as their private enforcers.
The Misfits could dispense justice as they saw fit, and while they were usually merciful, they felt a special hatred for those that hurt children... particularly children with classes.
•
Dash stood, in her human form, finding many humanoids respond better to her, in this state. She still had blue skin, and multi coloured hair, but there were a few humanoid species with pastel skin colors. They just accepted her better, when she looked like them.
Walking over to Hilda, with the Misfits right behind, Dash held herself with dignity before the, currently taller, woman. Dash glared up at her.
"Admiral Dash," She held up her starfleet badge.
Meanwhile, Scootaloo and the supposedly kidnapped human boy (who kept insisting he hadn't been kidnapped), sat off to the side. Watching the exchange.
It was a bit early for Stockholm Syndrome to kick in... but the boy could just be scared to turn against his Captor.
The Smart Mouth duplicates were looking after the children. While the newly recruited crew, of Hot Ice Hilda, was standing around wearily... obviously not sure what to do with themselves
"I have questions for you," Dash glared at the outlaw... as the crew the human recruited, was watched closely by the Misfits.
"I can't imagine what for," Hilda continued to smile.
"It's in regards to the Stolen space forces ship. The kidnapping of their Bio Android. As well as the Kidnapping of a child, and attempted murder of his guardian." Dash glared.
Hilda shrugged, not even denying it, "All of which is outside your jurisdiction. I have committed no crimes against the Alien Alliance."
The Sodaroo, Sunny Dilbert, suddenly grabbed at Hilda. His massive claw squeezing her head, as she struggled.
All of Hilda's new crew acted immediately. They pulled out their weapons, but the Misfits seemed unphased.
The Haunted Child just smiled, his skeleton grin. "We let you keep your weapons, because they are hardly a threat to us."
"But I am," Dash's fingers crackled with lightning. All of them pointed at Sunny Dilbert. "Let her go." she ordered.
By the way the Roo was looking at her. It was obvious he was debating killing her to.
"Stand down!" Scootaloo, still in her pony form, stood as tall as her puppy sized body would allow.
Dilbert just raised an eyebrow.
"You heard me D." Scoot glared. "We're here to talk. So Let. Her. Talk!" Thank Celestia Dash brought Scootaloo.
Dilbert growled, but released Hilda. The Outlaw fell to the ground, clutching her head, and coughing.
The Asari knelt down next to her, "Please, forgive Sunny. He's got a temper on the best of days. And after you went after one of the children, under our protection. Well, I'm sad to say, your life is forfeit." she smiled pleasantly. "and I don't exactly need your cooperation, to read your mind."
The Asari reached out her fingers, only to freeze. Meta felt a barrel pressing against her skull... but it wasn't a gun. It was something far worse then a gun.
"Get away from her," a ginger human demanded, holding a caster to the base of her skull.
Meta just eyed him. Not like death really mattered to her, but it was inconvenient... and painful.
"Gene!" The boy stood up, looking panicked.
"You're Starwind," Meta realized. "The boy's guardian... why would you care? This woman tried to kill you. Tried to kidnap your ward."
"If I held a grudge, I wouldn't have gone with her." Gene gave a shrug. A smile, of all things, on his lips. While the Misfits looked on in confusion... Oddly not concerned by the Caster, at their friends' head. Not even the Asari looked troubled by it.
"She would have enslaved the boy," Musky gaped at Gene. "Killed you and enslaved your charge."
The ginger rolled his eyes, "Oi, I'm the one that got shot." he glared, "What business is it of yours!?"
The Kobold spoke up. "Do you even know why she wanted him?"
Gene glared right back, though his eyes never left the Asari. "I can think of a lot of reasons, an Outlaw would want control of a Technomancer. But if I had to guess, I'd say it's to keep the Android, she stole, in repair." Gene's eyes lingered on Malfina, as said android peeked out from behind a crate.
"A Cleric, with a Technomancy Archetype, has the magicks needed to keep both her organic parts, and cybernetics, in working order." Gene reasoned.
"The Android is obviously vital to her plans, but she's still promised her a good cut, and is treating her kindly. She might only be staying with us, because she has no where else to go, but Hilda has made it clear, she does have a choice.
"Then, with the people she recruited," His eyes turning to the crew. "All that sappy family talk. I know. She might have been willing to kill me, when she saw me as an obstacle... but she would never have hurt Jim, much less slave him out. She isn't even willing to do that to an Android. The only reason she even brought me onboard, was so Jim would be more comfortable. I'm not exactly much use on a boat, due to some past traumas."
Hilda had stopped coughing, and was just staring at Gene. An unfamiliar look in her eyes, at least, to herself. It was a mix of surprise... and gratitude. Gene, the man she had tried to kill, was speaking on her behalf.
"Past trauma," The Skeletal creature grinned. "I imagine that's one way of describing being lost in the black for a month, after watching your father die in a pirate attack. Quite the experience for a barely pubescent child to go through."
Hilda's eyes widened more, as she learned just why Gene seemed to have such severe space sickness. Being lost in the black, for weeks, would traumatize anyone... but as a child, immediately after losing his dad... it was a wonder he was able to come out here, at all.
Hilda might be a tad stunted, in the empathy department, but even she could feel pity for that.
Unfortunately, the cruel memories, made Gene give into a careless mistake. He was young, after all. He started moving his caster towards the skeleton, but in that split second between his targets, the Asari snapped her hand. She made a grab for his weapon, while slamming her palm against Gene's chest.
Gene was lifted off his feet, and flew a good 10 feet back, before crashing into the ground.
"GENE!!!" Jim screamed, with the worry only a child could have, when their guardian was hurt.
"That's enough," Scootaloo demanded.
"Relax Scoot," Smart Mouth looked at all his counterparts, as they thought at each other. Before coming to a consensus.
Meta tossed Gene's Caster back at the man. Who wore a confused expression when he caught it. But Hilda got the message, the Misfits would let them live. Their telepaths must have picked up redeeming thoughts, during that chaotic interrogation.
Hilda was fully aware, they were being interrogated. Anything the Misfits said was meant to trigger emotional responses, and incriminating memories. Seems no one else realized it, not even the Starfleet Admiral.
The Misfits weren't exactly known for executing people, without giving them a trial first... which this was their version of.
"Hot Ice Hilda," Metagamer smiled, though now spoke with more Authority. "Given all the evidence, and testimony. We'll let you off with a warning."
The Asari wagged his finger, "Don't fuck with our children. And be sure to give both Jim, and his guardian, a fair cut."
Kole, the Kobold / True Dragon hybrid, wrung his hands together. With A good deal of glee in his eyes. "We'll be confiscating the XGP. Don't expect to find it at your safe house." Meta and Musky were able to pick up the coordinates, from Hilda's head.
Hilda glared, standing up, "You know why I need to find the Galactic Layline."
Smart Mouth waved off, "It can't help you. The Galactic Layline is a machine, not even techno magic. It doesn't even alter physics. Rather it uses science to cause chemical and biological changes... it can't resurrect the dead."
Hilda's fist tightened, "I see."
"They are gone Hilda," Smart Mouth sighed. "Even I can't feel them. If you DID resurrect them back, you would be literally murdering the children they had been reincarnated as. They have moved on to the next life. Not even I can help you recover them..."
Hilda nodded, her fist even tighter.
Meta sighed, "You need to let yourself move on. You have a new crew, a new life. Let us worry about the Galactic Layline."
Author's Note
I'm sad to say, I'm cancelling this fic, and doing yet another rewrite. Yet this time, I'm leaving this up, and just publishing a new fic.
News Broadcast - The Master Chief
Today marks the One Thousandth Anniversary of the defeat of the Reapers, and the founding of our Glorious Empire.
John, Spartan tag 117, the same Spartan that many claim to be largely responsible for the victory over the Covenant, was found after 130 Cycles. Where many had hoped to find his body, the galaxy was amazed, as he was found still alive in stasis.
Many of the species, formerly enslaved by the religious cult's ideals, were seen celebrating in the streets at the return of the Master Chief. Unfortunately that celebration left a bitter taste in many mouths, as 9 months later John Spartan, our Master Chief, was declared dead after an attack on his ship by a then unknown vessel.
However his demon luck rang true, as he appeared back on the Citadel a mere 2 years later, ALIVE and reinstated into the Spectres.
There he teamed up with the Current human Spectres, Jane and John Shepard, no relation. They worked together to investigate the disappearance of Humanoid planets.
All solar systems, with lifeforms based on the humanoid animal Kingdom, or even the potential for humanoids to evolve, were inevitably brought to the primary Citadel, at the center of the Galaxy.
A Citadel so massive, that all other Citadels orbit it. Made from hundreds of uninhabited galaxies.
A new Galaxy was spliced together inside it's rings, by none other then the Collectors. The very aliens that destroyed the Master Chief's ship.
It took us just under a galactic standard year, but due to the United armies of humanity's most powerful species uniting, we were able to beat them back.
Over the course of three years, humanity prepared for the Collectors' masters, and as expected they arrived to Harvest all space fairing civilizations. We called them 'Reapers' as they symbolized the end of everything.
The Galaxy united and lured the Reapers into a trap. The final battle around the Citadel. There the three human Spectres were able to defeat them. By uploading the Master Chief's Artificial Intelligence assistant, "Cortana", into the Citadel Mainframe. She was able to take direct control of all the Reapers, reprogramming them into a more passive state. While trapping them around the Citadel. All the Mass Relays were destroyed as a result of this.
This may have trapped the Reapers but it also trapped us. Humanity, along with the various armies of aliens that came to our aid. We are now permanently sealed off from the rest of the Galaxy. Just as each Galaxy is sealed off from each other.
