Eye of the storm

Chapters

Chapter 1 The Calm Before The Storm
Chapter 2 Sun and Shadow
Chapter 3 volunteer
Chapter 4 New mission
Chapter 5 Common cause
Chapter 6 Intel and planning
Chapter 7 forward and secrets
Chapter 8 Shocking work
Chapter 9 Into the storm

Chapter 1 The Calm Before The Storm

Chapter 1: The Calm Before the Storm

Within the home of the town of Trottingham, a colt blue unicorn mare slept peacefully until her eyes were slowly forced open by sunlight invading through the window. With a yawn, the scarlet colored eyes blinked a few times, a smile formed on her lips.

“Looks like this will be a good day.” She spoke to herself before the door of her bedroom opened.

“Good morning, Mom! I made you breakfast.” It was an earth pony colt with the same coat as her but dark brown eyes and a ginger/orange mane. With pride, her son carried in a breakfast board with toast and tea, which she appreciated.

“Thank you, sweetheart.”

“You’re welcome,” Tungsten replied with a smile of his own before walking out. She took her time to enjoy every sip and bite of her freshly made meal. She had missed the taste of a fresh and warm meal.

Yet Blue Murder’s mind was lost in thought.

Four months ago, she was forced to flee and on the run, separated from her son and friends after a series of events most refused to divulge, living with her lifelong foalhood companion, Nancy and her son Pipsqueak. But after an unfortunate accident some friends of her and Pip had, she got the chance to redeem herself, with Fletcher Fray, Eternal Knight of Princess Luna, vouching for her to ensure she could be reunited with her son, which she was very grateful of,

Nancy and Pip did not hold a grudge against her, forgiving her, which she was also happy about.

It had been a week or 2 ago. Even after so long, she still couldn’t believe what had happened. Had Faust have had pity for her and wanted to give Blue a second chance? Or had this been fate all along?

Regretful, her eyes fell on a picture on the nightstand, showing a young Blue Murder and orange, golden-maned stallion at their wedding.

“Marmalade…” Blue could not help but wonder, if he still would have been with her, or would he have cut ties with her? She would never know.

“I am done, you can go into the bathroom now.” Tungsten tore her out, she nodded before entering.

A frown went over her lips to see in the mirror that her dark red mane was slightly messy, yet it only took her a moment to get her mane cleared and straightened out. “Much better.”

“Ready to enjoy this day, Mom?” Her son asked cheerfully, causing her to smile back.

“You bet, sweetheart.”

With that, they exited their house, enjoying the calm morning as they walked through town to a small lake, seeing a orange, blue-dappled batpony stallion with a white ponytail, setting a the lake wearing a colored cloth and eyepatch over his right eye. He was holding a fishing rod, waiting patiently for a fish to bite. A black-and-white-speckled Earth pony stallion, possessed of a grey ponytail of a mane, dark moss-green, a tasseled red jerkin with bandoliers thrown across his chest and shoulders and toted a fedora with a trophy band, was next to the batpony.

“Shadowplay, Tybalt, nice to see you.” Blue greeted, they smiled back.

“Likewise. How are you, Tungsten?” Tybalt asked the colt.

“Doing great, uncle Tybalt!” He exclaimed before his ears twitched at a new voice.

“Hello, Tungsten.” He turned in its direction, seeing a periwinkle unicorn filly coming towards them together with an earth pony colt and human girl.

“Dinky, Blau Streifen, Katja, nice that you could join us. Where’s Lilly and Pip?” The older foal asked as he couldn’t see the 2 along his friends, getting a look of pity from Dinky.

“I am afraid they both got sick this morning.”

“Ah, pity.” He frowned, “How about-“

Dinky beat him to it. “Tag! You’re at!”

Tungsten was not mad at all, chasing after his friends with a laugh, the adults watched, their hearts warmed at the sight.

“Looks like I just came at the right time.” Blue turned her head, a green unicorn stallion came her way. “How are you, Blue?”

“I am doing good, Fletcher.” A sigh escaped her, lowering her head. “I still can’t believe you vouched for me back then, Fletcher.”

“It’s nothing, Blue, really.” The stallion smiled weakly. “You proved yourself of good deeds when helping me to keep Dinky and her friends save, you deserved a second chance.”

The mare opened her mouth but got interrupted. “Fletcher, can we practice?” Blau asked, holding his toy bow up eagerly.

“Sure thing.”

Despite this, the portly mare did not mind at all, watching everypony with a weak smile.

Seeing her son happy was the most beautiful thing for her in the world. And she would do everything to keep him safe.

Helping Dinky, Lilly and the siblings back then, it felt so natural to her back then, given she was a mother herself. And she had no doubt that her husband would have been proud of her.

Or so she hoped.

Suddenly, without a warning, her train of thought got interrupted as something hit her flank, jumping up with a yelp.

She looked down to see what had hit her. To her surprise, it was Blau’s arrow, the suction cup right on her cutie mark…which was ironically a target symbol.

“Sorry! Blau exclaimed, his eyes filled with fear, “I got a cramp when I was about to fire!”

He tensed himself for the worst, only to get a weak smile as answer, “It’s okay, no harm done.” The mare said in a calming tone, then using her magic to carefully pull the arrow off her with a “Pop!” sound.

Shadowplay let out a chuckle. “Bullseye.” He slightly trembled as his female friend glared at him before his rod twitched. “Got something!”

The batpony tried to reel in the line, using all his strength to fight against the fish as it struggled, the rod bending left and right.

Shadowplay lost this fight, getting thrown into the water with a loud yelp himself. Everypony looked worried at the plash for a moment. Then, the stallion surfaced, swimming back to shore. “I get it next time!” He sounded confident as Fletcher used a drying spell on him.

Dinky looked at the older colt as he sighed. “I still can’t believe what all happened. How you helped my mother to be reunited with me.”

She wrapped her hooves around him for a calming hug. “She helped us, as we did her, Tungsten.”

“And that is what friendship is all about, helping and forgiving each other.” Katja added, her brother nodded.

“Righto…” Tungsten mumbled before a loud thunder startled everypony.

The group looked up into the sky, their eyes went wide. Without any warning, the sky had become dark, a vigorous thunderstorm had formed.

“Odd, this wasn’t in the weather forecast, but we better get to shelter.” Fletcher suggested and they all moved to safety as fast as they could.

With another loud Thunder, a lightning strike came down. Dinky, Tungsten and the siblings screamed as a massive pain burned through their bodies, blacking out.

Groaning, Dinky slowly came to, panting in slight exhausting and pain, although it slowly stopped. Are you alright?” She asked as she saw her friends next to her, all struggling to get up.

“I am fine. You sis?” Blau asked, getting a nod from his sister.

Tungsten, however, looked around in alert. “Where are we?”

Only now, the others took notice of their surroundings. They were in a fenced area, next to some boxes and a generator.

“Hello?” A voice called out with what sounded like a South American accent. “Senior, this is a restricted area, leave now.” It was male, sounding serious and a human silhouette came into view.

To the surprise of the foals, it was a human indeed. His skin was slightly tan, wearing a blue uniform with red outer strips, face was hidden by a black ski mask, only brown eyes were visible, carrying what looked like an SMG, appearing to be male by the looks of his slim body structure and voice.

Behind him was another human. This one was wearing the same uniform and mask but with a lightish blue-grey bulletproof vest, pale blue helmet and dark red ski goggles over the eyes, making his emotions impossible to read, an assault rifle in his hands.

Dinky and the siblings realized: They were on earth once more. Yet Tungsten was slightly trembling.

“P-please, we are lost.” He said, his voice cracking, causing both men to step back in shock.

Taking a deep breath, the young unicorn stepped forward. “I know this is confusing but can you help us?”

Both men looked briefly at each other, then the helmeted man stepped forward, kneeling and holding out a hand to Tungsten. “Of course, I can help you.” His voice was of a slight British accent but sounded a bit higher in his vocals, like an Australian.

While hesitating, Tungsten slowly took it, getting helped up.

The man then turned to his comrade. “I know you take your work seriously but we should help them.”

Katja and Blau then gave Tungsten an assuring hug. “It’s gonna be alright, Tungsten, together we can make it through this.”

“Don’t worry, Fletcher and your mother were with us when that happened. They surely will find a way to us soon.” Dinky added.

It seemed to have the intended effect, as he gave a weak smile, knowing how Fletcher got her and the siblings back before.

“We should report then in.” The other soldier stated, only to be countered.

“And who would believe this?”

The helmetless soldier slightly hesitated before sighing. “Alright but if we get into trouble, it’s on you.”

Having this settled, the children received an arm wave to follow by the apparent Australian human, getting led to what looked like an armored truck. It had slightly sloped armor on all but the rear wall, which had a door instead. A troop transport the children realized, not hesitating to get in, their helper did too, while his comrade took the driver seat.

Through the tinted windows, they could see they had landed in what looked like an outpost, some other soldiers with the same uniforms patrolling around.

The landscape was flat grasslands as far as they could see, with small hills from time to time,

It was relaxing, the seats comfortable as their helper looked at them. “So…would you like to tell about yourself?” He sounded curious but not confused by the fact he spoke with speaking ponies.

“I am Dinky, and those are my friends, Katja, Blau Streifen and Tungsten.” She introduced everyone. We come from Equestria, where pones live together in peace. There are unicorns, like me, who can use magic, Pegasus, who can fly and control the weather, as well as earth ponies, like Tungsten and Blau. The Special Talent of a pony is represented by a ‘Cutie Mark’ on the flank, which I haven’t got one yet but Tungsten did.”

In response, the oldest pony nodded with a weak smile, a Viking's hat and a Wizard's hat on his flank before his friend finished

“Equestria is ruled by Princess Celestia and Luna. They’re Alicorns and they control the sun and moon. As for how we landed here, we got hit by a lightning strike that….brought us here.” Dinky sounded unsure and awkward about this.

“I see… You seem to be very familiar with humans” Now, fasciation was in his voice.

Scratching her head, the little unicorn admitted, “Well…we had a few…adventures on earth before.”

Before any form of answer could come from their helper, Tungsten took the word. “Where are you taking us and where are we actually?” He asked, his expression forming to one of unease,” you are pretty calm for meeting speaking ponies.”

A shrug was the reply he got. “Let’s just say, I saw far more odd things before. As to answer your question, you are in Solis, a South American country, west of South America. And I bring you to a city for Shelter. You have my word, I only want to help you.” The soldier stated, his voice sounding honest. “My name is Cooper Robison. And this is Bruno.” He pointed to the driver, who nodded.

“You mind some music?” Dinky and the others shook their heads, with Bruno turning the radio on.

“I try not to talk too much, unlike Diago and Santiago. Those guys just never stop talking. Don’t know how they do it, or why…okay, here’s another good one.” The radio host mumbled before rock music played. The ponies and young human enjoyed, despite being not their real taste.

It wasn’t a long drive until a big city with any apartment buildings as well as businesses and shops. There were also skyscrapers, a stadium and a Ferris wheel could be seen in the distance. But the eyes of the newcomers went wide as they spotted a large tower. It was triangular shaped at the base, raging several meters high into the sky, with an egg shaped observation deck at the top.

“Welcome to Nueva Voz, the capital of Solis.” Copper announced, the transport stopped near a house, a dark blue luxury sedan was parked in the garage next to it.

As they got out, Bruno commented, “I see you later then,” before driving off.

Bruna made a gesture for them to wait while he opened the door. “Ana, I am back!”

“Welcome back, Cooper.” A mature, female voice greeted.

“Cooper!” two younger voices followed, one female, the other male. The sound of a TV inside drowned out any further sound, making it impossible to hear what they said.

Tungsten felt his heart racing, getting nervous, only for Dinky to give him a pat on the back. “It will be alright.”

He smiled weakly in appreciating, taking a deep breath as the man came to them, waving a hand to enter.

Tensed, Dinky took the lead, followed by the siblings. In the hallway of the home, they faced a woman with black hair and brown eyes. Behind her were a girl, brown hair and blue eyes, the boy had the same hair and eye color as his mother. They all looked confused at the ponies and girl, as expected by them.

“Hello.” Dinky said with a friendly smile, causing the mother and her kids to step back, looking shocked at Cooper.

“Did they just?” The woman asked Robison, who nodded.

“Yes, they did.” He spoke with awkwardness in his voice. “I know this is unexpected and such but what was I supposed to do?”

Slowly, the woman started to smile. “I guess you have a point.” She then turned towards her guests. “My name is Ana Vega.”

“I am Miranda and this is my brother Axel.” The girl introduced herself. Both looked of the same age of 10 to 12.

“Pleasure to meet you.” Dinky greeted back, her friends nodded.

“Your Spanish is pretty good by the way.” Ana commented and the filly chuckled in slight awkwardness.

“Well, I can’t exactly explain it, but the magic in our home somehow passively acts as translator for most languages.”

“Magic?” The woman raised an eyebrow and Katja took the word.

“Yes, you heard her right.” With that, she repeated what Dinky had told to Cooper and Bruno before.

As expected. Their hosts’ eyes went wide in fascination and surprise but before any of them could speak up, the sound of a throat being cleared got everyone’s attention.

It was Cooper, now dressed in casual clothes, revealing his round face. Blond hair, forest green eyes with a slightly awkward smile. His build was athletic, he seemed to be in his early 20s.

“I know this is sudden and awkward but what should I have done?”

After a short moment of silence, Vega stepped forward with a weak smile. “You did the right thing, your parents would have been proud of you. And don’t worry, with my job, it’s no trouble to host them.”

In response, the ponies and girl smiled in appreciation, Tungsten spoke up, “So, what could we do now?”

“Oh, I know!” Miranda exclaimed, “how about Uno?”

Dinky smiled, the siblings too. “Sounds good to me.”

“I guess I could give it a try.” Tungsten mumbled before they took a glance at the interior, of the living room. A radio, couch and TV, a common but comfortable furnishing.

The room of the siblings was as typical for children as could be. A TV, PC and gaming console, a few board games on a shelf.

“Its similar to Mau-Mau, be first to play all of your own cards. However, there are a few special cards.” The girl explained, holding up a card with a crossed circle, like on a sign that means something is forbidden. “This card means skip, next player in sequence misses a turn.” Then she switched to a card with crossed arrows, “this one means order of play switches directions. Then we have Draw 2”, the next card had a 2 with a plus next to it, being self-explanatory “And the wild card” Her hand held it up to be see seen clear. A black background but with all colors in the middle. “You declare the next color to be matched. There is also a combination of it and the draw card, where the next player must draw four instead of two.”

“Righto.” The oldest guests nodded and they gave it a try. It was a very fun experience, with the mother bringing some sandwiches as lunch as time passed.

“UNO, UNO!” Dinky explained, finishing first, with Tungsten having the bad luck of being the last for this round. The next rounds, everyone else had a chance to finish first but not him, getting him a little bit frustrated.

Though eventually… luck finally got on his side, a big grin as he laid down his last card. “UNO, UNO!”

“Good game, Tungsten.” Dinky praised him.

“And just in time for dinner.” Axel’s and Miranda’s mother added and they walked towards the dining room. Had time passed so fast?

She had made what seemed to be a vegetarian stew, made of cassava, sweet potatoes, yams, plantains, onions, and garlic, boiled in coconut milk.

“Looks delicious.” Katja commented and took a bite. It tasted fresh due to the vegetables, with the woman smiling at the happy faces.

“Glad you like it. This is called Metemgee, a meal from Guyana. And don’t worry, we have a guest room.”

Nodding, Dinky took the lead, yawning as his friends followed her. “I take a sleeping back, you should have the bed, Katja and Blau.” She suggested, showing her selflessness as she had before when they first met. “Do you mind, Tungsten?”

He waved a hoof. “Nah, I understand. I just hope Fletcher can find us soon.” An expression of unease overcame him as she got comfortable in another sleeping back. “Mother already lost dad, I don’t think she can take…”

“Stay positive, Tungsten,” Blau tried to give him hope with a weak smile. “Fletcher is most likely already on his way, he saw what happened.”

“Righto…” Tungsten nodded before they all tried to sleep, also hoping for the best.

But what was yet to come?

Author's Note

Had this planned for some time. Why? Because its one of the few latest games set in the late 2010s, allowing MLP references and has a interesting plot concept

Chapter 2 Sun and Shadow

Chapter 2: Sun and Shadow

Opening their eyes, the children strange found themselves in a city similar to Ponyville, flinching as they heard gunshots and a yell. “There are too many of them!”

They gasped as they realized they knew that voice. Shadowplay.

Blinking, they saw him and Tybalt holding positions near a house wall, firing at what seemed to be enemies out of their view. “We need help! I try to-“

Shadow was cut off mid-sentence as a bullet hit him right into his eye, blood sprayed like a fountain as he stumbled and hit the ground, causing the children to gasp again but their bodies were locked up, unable to move.

“Shadow, no!” Tybalt exclaimed in horror. Looking at the dead body, “Holy-“

But he dared too far out of cover and in a flash, his chest got perforated by bullets, thrown to the ground on his back with a cry.

As he groaned, trying to stop the bleeding, the children saw a human like silhouette stepping towards him, dressed in a grey uniform and helmet, raising a pistol on the injured stallion.

Tybalt looked at him, his head slightly shaking as if to beg for his life.

Blood sprayed from his head as the human fired. None of the children could believe what they just saw before the human turned towards them.

Red glowing googles were focused on them.

In that moment, they shot up gasping, cold sweat running down their faces, breathing heavily as they looked around. It had just been a dream.

“Phew…” Tungsten took a deep breath as the others looked at him with worry. “I am okay.”

Nodding, they all fell asleep again.

In the morning, their noses sniffed at a good smell. Sleepy, they opened their eyes and the door opened. “Good morning!” It were Miranda and Axel, bringing in breakfast boards with toast and juice.

“Thank you.” Tungsten smiled, taking it gladly with the others.

It tasted very fresh, Dinky enjoyed every bite.” That was good. So, what have you in mind for today?”

“Well, Ana has to work today, so I thought show you the city?” Cooper offered as he stepped in with a weak smile.

But, wouldn’t we stand out?” The older colt asked with concern, only to get a reassuring smile from Dinky.

“Don’t worry, we were fine before, pretending to be kids on costumes, why should it not work here?”

“Fair point.”

With that, Cooper and the 2 human kids took the lead outside. Dinky, Tungsten, Katja and Blau could see many apartment buildings in the city as well as businesses and shops as they were led around. The citizens greeted friendly, commenting how good the “costumes” of the ponies looked.

They also took notice of a stadium in the west of the capital, with a series of slum housing south of it. A sad realization formed in their heads.

Poverty was apparently not uncommon, like in many other South American countries.

Yet before they could say anything, their eyes fell on a statue right at the stadium. It depicted a soldier in the same uniform Cooper wore, in a pose where he's walking in a combat situation and signaling other soldiers to stop and lower themselves for cover and/or to be vigilant here, because he spotted something. There was text under the pedestal.

BLACKHAND

Whose courage, dedication, and traditions make them the world’s finest fighting soldiers".

“Black Hand? What kind of name is this?” Blau wondered and the man chuckled nervously.

“It’s a private military organization and also the military and police of Solis. As far as I know, the Black Hand has a decades-long contract with the government, having also replaced the original normal military and ever since, became one of the most powerful private armies in the world, similar to the Harmonious Guard.”

None of his guests could process or believe what they just heard. A PMC replacing an entire military?

Yet one thing woke Dinky’s interest. “You mentioned the Harmonious Guard. What do you mean?” She was curious.

“Well, at first, the Black Hand were only a local force, before they were turned into an internationally known force by the current ruler of the country, Oscar Espinosa. The Harmonious Guard, if I remember correctly, were a local West German militia at their foundation in early 1984. However, in late March the same year, the coastal regions of Germany suffered from a flood disaster and the military was one of the first responders, saving many lives. This got them international attention, becoming an international known force, still having a contract with Germany.”

Dinky’s eyes went wide, she could not believe the creator of her uncle to have started that way or having gone on such an aid mission to became what he was today.

Surely, James had gone through a lot but…it was hard to believe he achieved such a change in organization.

“I wish I had joined them back then…” Robison mumbled with regret.

“What do you mean?” Katja asked confused, causing him to sigh.

“As you probably already guessed from my accent, I am not native but from Australia, Sydney to be exact. Back in 2014, my mother was injured in a traffic accident shortly after I turned 17. My father died before I was born and I had no job yet when my mother got injured.” The man told them, sadness in his voice as he lowered his head.

“Having only my mother, I was desperate, not knowing how I could pay for her bills or supply myself. A man noticed my desperation and asked what was wrong. Turns out, this man was a recruiter of the Black Hand. He told me the Black Hand stood for family, discipline, strength, order and service. So, young, naive and desperate as I was, I jumped at this opportunity, able to pay for my mother. At first, I had a desk job, doing paper work but then…I was taken to the training camps to become a soldier. It was shorty after that…” His voice cracked, ”My mother succumbed to her injuries.”

Dinky and her friends gasped at this. But before they could form any reply, Miranda and Axel hugged him.

“Shh, Cooper, it’s okay, we are here for you, remember?” The boy smiled weakly, which he returned.

“Yeah…”

“I am so sorry.” Dinky lowered her head, she got a weak smile in response.

“It's okay, how should you have known? Frankly, I look forward for my contract to end but at the same time, I don’t know what to do afterwards. I have lost contact with most of my friends back home and in Solis, you are either training to become a soldier, or you are working at a factory.”

This reminded the Trottingham colt of something he had not noticed that his hosts had a father. “If you don’t mind me asking, Miranda and Axel, what happened to your father?” He asked with slight unease, hoping not to wake bad memories.

The boy sighed. “He died 10 years ago, when the capital was hit by a tornado. The large white tower you see, Torre Espinosa, was dedicated to the victims of that disaster. After Cooper enlisted, and arrived, he noticed our mother’s depression and tried to cheer her up, living with us. And we couldn’t be happier.” Axel smiled with his sister at the young man, who returned it.

“So, what now?” Tungsten asked and the two siblings thought about it.

“We got a ball back home, how about that?” Miranda suggested, the others smiled.

“Good idea.”

And so, they got said ball and walked to a park, passing it to each other while laughing, Dinky was careful of her horn. Copper watched with a smile, happy to see his guests were enjoying themselves.

“Glad to see they are doing well.” Ana’s voice sounded behind the man, startling him slightly.

“Back so soon?”

She chuckled. “Well, yes, today, there was not so much to do.”

“Okay then.” They both watched for a while until the children took a break, with Tungsten smiling.

“That was fun!”

“Meow?” He turned surprised around to see a cat facing him, its green eyes focused on him with curiosity. Its coat was similar to a tiger, black stripes and a cream/white color.

“Oh, hello there.” He kneeled down to pet the cat, who purred in affection. Then it titled its head and raised a paw.

It used its claw as a hook, grabbing the left temple of his glasses in an attempt to lift it up, causing him to chuckle as he pressed it down with a hoof. “No, I need those.”

“That is Chilly, the neighbor cat, always eager to snuggle.” Miranda smiled as Dinky and the siblings petted the cat as well.

“Almost like Medici…” Cooper mumbled, getting the attention of his hosts.

“Medici?” The unicorn asked and he sighed.

“A nation in the Mediterranean Sea, located west of Italy and east of Spain, I had my first deployment here in 2015. It was the prettiest place I have ever seen, I thought I could immigrate there, after my contract is over…”A weak smile formed before lowering his head. “But it was also where I questioned my decision. I was part of a routine prisoner transport, nothing special I thought…”

“W-what happened?” Dinky asked with dread, her eyes small, not liking where this was going.

“C-children were among the prisoners. One of the adult prisoners, their father, collapsed and his wife tried to help him but…A fellow of my comrades executed both, right in front of their children…”

His hosts gasped in shock, not able to believe what they just heard as he added, “One of the other prisoners asked, no, begged me to be allowed to comfort the kids, which I allowed out of pity.”

They stayed silent, trying to process everything. It seemed like hours until Dinky’s mouth opened. “This is horrible!”

“And sad.” Katja added, her brother nodded.

“But,” the ginger colt spoke up with a weak smile. “It honors you that you allowed the children to be comforted.”

“Yes, I know. Something is kinda ironic about the Black Hand I noticed while serving. In Solis, we got our own weapons and vehicles, all being licensed copies of other countries but when deployed, we use the local equipment to save costs.”

“I guess it saves on logistics.” Blau commented.

“Suppose so. I am now, what they call Elite around here, which are the stable of our infantry during deployments. In Solis though, the bulk of the home guard are privates, like Bruno, having recently passed training.” He explained and Ana nodded.

“When I was your age, the local troops did not wear masks back then when they were serving domestically. In fact, they had been proud to have their identities locally known, because the people knew them and knew that they were there to protect them. The masks are a recent thing.” She told with slight unease. “But, as long as you obey the law, you don’t have to worry about them.”

With concern, Dinky, Blau Katja and Tungsten let sink it in. Would they truly be safe? Or could they get in trouble at any moment?

“Meow.” Chilly poked with great force Dinky into the chest, causing her to fall over.

“Oof!” She cried out, yet grinned. “Hey.” Her friends could not help but chuckle.

“She must have noticed your worry and tried to cheer you“ Cooper assumed with a grin.

“Oh, you.” The filly petted the cat in return, who purred in affection.

“Looks like you made another friend.” Robison smiled before his phone rang. “Yes?”

Everyone waited eagerly as he talked to the caller for a few minutes. “That was Bruno, he was supposed to come but his car got a breakdown, so he asked me if I could help him out.”

“Can we join you?” Dinky asked with a smile, “we could help you with repairs.”

Her host just shrugged. “If you want, I don’t mind.” The other nodded and they got into another armored Truck, which was just parked near the road.

“It’s quite…comfortable for an armored truck…” Blau mumbled slightly fascinated.

“Well, this is the Cavalry Armored Truck, designed to transport troops in urban areas where there is a high risk of mines and small arms fire, inspired by a similar project of the US forces.”

With awe, the children watched as the truck entered a highway, enjoying the view of the forests, grasslands and hills. Their eyes also took notice of several models of civilian cars passing by, from sedans, hatchbacks, subcompacts, muscle cars and even sport cars from time to time, roaring past the armored transport.

After around 15 minutes or, so, they saw smoke in the distance, originating from a military themed SUV that stood with warning lights on the hard shoulder as they got closer, next to a forest. Like the Cavalry, its color was black with some red bits.

Cooper pulled over and they got out. “I am here, Bruno, what’s the problem?” His friend asked, seeing him standing over the open hood.

In response, the South American looked up, smiling under his mask. “Glad you’re here. Got a flat one and the guys in the base forgot to mount the spare wheel, plus the engine gave up the ghost, as you see.” Then he spotted the kids, his eyes widening in surprise. “Oh, you again?”

“We wanted to give you a hoof too.” Dinky explained with a smile, her friends did too.

“If you want. “ Having his permission, the siblings grabbed a toolbox and jack, while Dinky and Tungsten grabbed the spare wheel from the back of the truck.

“Careful.” She warned her friend, both coordinating their attempt to grab each side, as it was a big heavy-duty tire.

Upon getting it down and rolling it towards the SUV, Cooper and Bruno took care of the rest, with them watching.

Twitching, Dinky’s ear got invaded by a faint but winching sound, turning to her friends with confusion. “Did you hear that?”

Before any could answer, there was it again. “Looks like it comes out of the forest.”

“I can hear it too but we should stay here.” Tungsten advised with slight worry, Blau shook his head.

“A quick look could not hurt, it sounds like someone is hurt.”

Looking over their caretaker, the ginger colt noticed they were still focused on the wheel, sighing. “Alright.”

The unicorn took the lead, the faint sound growing louder, meaning they got close, gasping when they spotted where it came from.

A monstrous black wolf with red eyes was whining in pain, its left hind leg stuck in a bear trap. It tried to pull itself free, only for the leg to bleed more.

“Oh no, we must help him!” Dinky exclaimed in horror and pity, her friends did not hesitate, careful approaching as she made a calming hush sound.

The wolf looked briefly up, whining before the kids grabbed the trap, using all their strength as they tried to pull it open. They groaned, the trap creaked in protest but slowly opened.

In response, the wolf slowly got up, still whining and Dinky lit up her horn to cast a healing spell on it. To their surprise, the wolf seemed to give a grateful look and low growl before limping deeper into the forest.

“I hope he can recover.” She commented with worry, although she felt proud to have helped him.

“Let’s hope the wound won’t go bad.” Katja added before making their way back.

As they got out of the forest, they were happy to see the repairs were done. “You were lucky it was just a clogged fuel filter, or we might have had to call a tow truck.” Robison commented before turning towards the kids. “Let’s get back. This is the Warrior Offroader, a licensed copy of the Humvee of the US forces and our main patrol vehicle around here.” He explained quickly, pointing to the SUV before they got in.

The ride was mostly quiet, yet at one point, their eyes went wide to see a raging cyclone of powerful swirling winds in the distance to their left, a tornado.

While not uncommon in Equestria, the pegasus kept them in check, yet it was a sight to behold.

“Don’t worry, its way too far to be a danger to us and goes not toward us.” Their driver assured them. “Solis suffers from extreme weather for years but the government has a project under development to get this under control.

They let this sink in, a project to control weather? While weather control was a thing in Equestria, the pegasus made sure it would be used correctly but humanity…was it truly ready for this and safe?

Dinky opened her mouth to speak but the older cobalt blue colt spoke up first.. “If you don’t mind me asking, Cooper, you said you joined the Black Hand in 2014. Were you not too young to join?” He had a point, something they did not notice before.

“You are correct but things…” Cooper hesitated to find the right words, sounding unsure, “Were not as strict back then. You see, back in the 1980s, the concept of PMCs was spread through the world through the action of one famous man, known as Big Boss. With the end of the cold war in 1990, many postcolonial client states of the two superpowers collapsed into internal conflict with the absence of their former backers, especially in Eastern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, creating new civil and ethnic conflicts.”

In surprise, Dinky and the siblings looked at each other at the mention of Big Boss. They could not imagine that a single man could cause such a big change. Could they have indirectly caused it too when they helped him in their last adventure? It also made them wonder what happened to Lovec.

“Also, with the cold war ending, both powers decommissioned a large scale of their forces, resulting in a global pool of newly unemployed individuals whose careers during the Cold War left them with a predominantly military-oriented skillset, which had nowhere left to go, finding work within PMCs.

And during the early 21st century, with the invention of an advanced battlefield control system, war turned into a lucrative business, State economies became solely dependent on war with an immediate need for private military companies.”

It was beyond their imagination, yet they did not interrupt him.

“About that system, I spare you the details but it allowed multiple members of a military unit to share each other's senses and work more efficiently as a team. As such, I gained the experience of veterans, despite having only been a rookie at the time and due to the war economy, it was not uncommon for teenagers to join PMCs, thinking it’s cool to fight like this. However, in 2014, this system got hacked and promptly shut down in response, crippling PMCs as well as state armies worldwide.

But due to their contract with Solis, the Black Hand recovered quickly, so did the Harmonious Guard.”

They stayed silent, unable to process what they just had been told.

“Sounds like you have been through a lot.” Dinky spoke up in awe and pity.

“Yeah, I did.” Her driver mumbled in slight awe.

The rest of the day was quiet, Dinky, Tungsten, Katja and Blau helped out in the house to repay for the hosting.

As evening approached and dinner was prepared, the kids played cards together. When it was stone, a stew, Copper spoke up, “I would like to stay but got the evening guard shift today, so I see you later.” They nodded in response.

With that, they went to the bathroom to brush their teeth. They started slightly as the doorbell rang and Miranda walked, in, a worried expression on her face. “You better stay out of sight.”

An expression of panic formed on the face of the cobalt colt but he nodded with his friends, going to the guest room.

Tensed, Ana opened the door to reveal 2 elite soldiers, led by a Black Hand soldier wearing stark white body armor and bright red balaclava, an officer she recognized, forcing a smile. “Si?”

“Good evening, Ma’am. We were informed about suspicious activity” the officer explained.

“That must be a misunderstanding, I am a law abiding citizen.” She replied nervous, not able to imagine how they got aware of the lost kids. A neighbor reporting them? Or had they tapped communications?

“Non-cooperation will result in the detainment of your entire family, do you really want that?” Now, the officer sounded slightly threatening.

Dinky and her friends heard this threat, looking unsure at each other. If they would not give themselves up, their hoists would get into trouble but what would happen to them if the Black Hand takes them?

Without a word, they seemed to make a decision, looking at each other.

Ava was about to reply as she heard a voice behind her. “Don’t harm them, we’ll go with you.” She turned around to see Dinky and her friends, putting up brave expressions.

She was about to protest as the officer commented, “Smart choice.” He made a gesture to follow and they did without a word.

They got led towards an armored truck, seeing out of the corner of their eyes how their hosts watched after them with worry.

None of them said a word during the trip, afraid of where they got taken or what would happen to them, the soldiers in the back keeping a watchful eye on them as the truck entered a rainforest region.

Through the windows, they noticed how the sky filled with dark clouds, a thunderstorm was coming and it started to rain. “We better hurry, those thunderstorms are vicious here.” They heard the driver commenting with worry as they were about to pass a bridge.

Bang!

With a loud thunder, a lightning strike hit the ground near the truck, causing the driver to startle, losing control.

The children screamed as the truck grinded against the guard rail, threatening to break through and falling into the abyss below, while the driver fought to regain control.

He swerved violently, the truck tipping slightly over, his passengers screaming and trying to hold on as they got thrown around before it got thrown over, rolling around a few times.

Dinky screamed in pain, and so did her friends before they hit the ground hard, moaning as they were dazed.

Out of instinct, they opened the door and stumbled out, barely seeing how the soldiers did not move, the guard rail was dented, the truck stood in the middle of the bridge.

“We were lucky that the guard rail did hold, or…” Tungsten shivered at the thought before with a creak, the guard rail broke apart.

“Are you hurt?” a male voice asked worried, seeing a man walking towards them but it was too dark to make out any details. They shook their heads and he gestured them to follow for shelter, seeing how other people checked on the soldiers.

They got led to a house, it was simple in furnishings, with the man getting towels. As he returned, they got a good look at him. Dressed in colorful clothing, an average build, his brown eyes had relief in them, his brown hair short. “You can rest the night here, call me Miguel.”

Nodding, the children dried themselves from the rain, then got led to a guest room, the siblings took the bed, Dinky and Tungsten a sleeping bag, glad to be still alive.

After having finished his shift, Cooper only had a few hours’ sleep before being woken up, being told that the facility of the weather project had been attacked and he was part of a retaliation squad, boarding a transport chopper.

A feeling of unease overcame him as it flew towards a bridge settlement and he was ordered to scout ahead as it landed.

As morning approached, yawns escaped the children, covering their faces from the sun as the door opened and their helper walked in with toast and juice.

“Good morning, I made you breakfast.” He smiled and they gladly took it.

“Thank you.” Dinky took a bite, then remembered something. “Where are we and are the soldiers alright?”

In response, Miguel sighed. “Sadly, you are the only survivors, the Black Hand members had their necks broken from the accident. As to where you are, it's called El Abismo, a place for the poor and criminals. Me, I ended up here after losing my house in a tornado.”

A feeling of pity flowed through the kids but before they could answer, their ears heard a loud sound, like that of a chopper. Going to the window, they saw a transport chopper in Black Hand colors landing on the bridge. 6 Elite soldiers stepped out, led by a blond woman, dressed in a black outfit with a red stripe, the colors of the Black Hand they recognized but could not make out anything else at this distance.

Her expression was cold as he walked back and forth, speaking into a megaphone.

“Your actions in the next few minutes may determine the fate of this community. I am Commander Morales.” Her voice was cold and emotionless. “I have tolerated El Abismo for years. To maintain order and justice in Solis, I’ve allowed this place as a refuge for the criminal and disenfranchised. But last night, a terrorist attack was launched against the Project Illapa Facility. The culprit was abetted by a conspirator from this village.” She explained, pausing for a moment.

“If Mira Morales is not surrendered to me immediately, I will be forced to conduct an exhaustive investigation. Every home will be searched. Every citizens’ identity will be checked. And all transgressions will be harshly prosecuted.”

This caused the children to gulp, knowing if this would happen, they would be right back into the custody of the private force.

“You.” The commander pointed at a man in the same colorful clothes as Miguel, with 2 Elites approaching him at gunpoint and bringing him towards her, he looked around in surprise and fear as she asked in a slightly raised tone, “Where is Mira?” He did not react, so she leaned slightly forward to be face to face with him. “Where.” The elites trained their weapons at him.

With pounding hearts, the children watched in worry and fear, afraid what would happen next.

Would they witness a massacre and be victim of it?

“GABRIELLA!” a female voice shouted, the soldiers turned around in alt, their weapons trained on a woman with brown hair, dressed in a blue overall, like a mechanic would wear. “Let him go, cousin.” She demanded.

Two soldiers approached her, while her cousin calmly pushed the man aside, making him fall to the ground. “At least you aren’t a coward.” She commented emotionless, only for her prisoner to counter with hate,

“Your father would be disgusted with the monster you’ve become.”

“You two traitors can discuss your disappointment together in prison.” Her cousin stated calmly, earning a surprised and shocked expression as she ordered, “Load her into my chopper.”

But as they approached, the man that had been pushed down, pulled out what looked like an SMG with other residents. “Mira!” He aimed nervous between the soldiers, who aimed at him instead, the kids held their breath.

Cooper carefully looked around the back buildings, finding nothing to see until he noticed the shadow of a man in an alleyway. “Ey! Freeze!” He shouted and got closer.

He wore a red T-shirt, a black zip-up leather jacket and black jeans, nothing special but something about this man made the young soldier unease.

His eyes fell on a grappling device the man wore on his left arm and went small.

He had seen this before.

N-no way…

Then the man fired it at him, making Cooper scream as he got thrown back.

Dinky flinched at the scream, her eyes wide as she recognized the voice. Cooper!

In a flash, the standout turned violent, the soldiers opened fire, killing residents left and right, with Miguel quickly pulling the kids to the ground as stray bullets shattered the window.

With horror, they noticed an attack chopper rising above the bridge, its miniguns spinning and perforating two more residents, coming around to aim at the beforehand interrogated man, who took cover behind a pickup.

But suddenly, something hit the rotator and the chopper spun out of control, crashing into the ground with a giant fireball.

Everyone looked in shock at it and the commander reached for a radio. “We need re-“

She could not finish, as in a flash, a cable hit her out of nowhere, throwing her to the ground, with Mira running out of harm’s way. The soldiers looked at her in suppose before turning around in shock to see a man in red T-shirt, a black zip-up leather jacket and black jeans, having a beard and brown hair. He was armed with an assault rifle, his hazel eyes foxed o the soldiers with a serious expression.

Before any of the soldiers could react, the man slowly advanced and fired his rifle.

The Elites aimed in what seemed panic and shock at him, unable to pull the trigger as they slowly backed up before one got hit and fell dead to the ground.

Then another.

And another.

The last one was about to pull the trigger but was too slow Blood splattered from his head, a hole in his helmet and he collapsed

Their commander barely managed to jump into the chopper, it took a few stray bullets as it took off and flew away.

Breathing heavily, trying to process everything, the kids saw how Mira walked up to the man who had single-handedly pushed Gabriella back. “I think we just started a rebellion.” She commented ad he replied with what seemed worry.

“We didn’t have to drag these people into this.”

“They are what we need to put down Project Illapa.” She pointed out.

“Well, they’ll need more guns.” The man added calmly.

“Eso, there’s a factory down the road here. Abandoned.” Mira’s apparent second ally pointed down the road.

“Casquillos Vacíos. It used to manufacture Black Hand weapons, years ago.” Mira explained and the bearded man nodded.

“Let’s check it out.” He looked at Mira’s ally, “Luis, right? Organize these people. Anyone who wants to fight the Black Hand gest to fight. You up for it, Sargento?”

“Si, señor.”

“Mira. I need to make sure my gear is working. I’ll meet you at the factory.

With that, the man walked down the road, but the children could only watch it shock, their minds all having the same thought.

What did we get ourselves into?

Author's Note

the wolf, OC of my friend Lunatic God

Chapter 3 volunteer

Chapter 3: volunteer

The hearts of the children raced, still in shock and trying to process what had just happened.

Was this real?

Did they really find themselves in the middle of an imminent civil war?

“Are you hurt?” Miguel tore them out, sounding worried and they shook their heads.

“N-no, we’re fine.” Dinky stuttered, trying to take deep breaths with her friends.

The man opened his mouth for a reply but got cut off by a call outside. “Hey, Miguel, you’re with us?”

He got quickly outside and replied, “y-yes, I am but let me check on the youngsters first.” His eyes showed regret as he came back in. “I hate to say it but you are not safe here after this.”

“B-but where can we go?” Tungsten asked with dread, causing their host to sigh.

“Well, I think it would be best you come with me and the others to the factory, maybe you can help us.”

Dinky and the siblings could see the fear in Tungsten’s eyes, they looked at each other, then nodded, giving him a calming hug.

“I know this looks bad, Tungsten but it may be our only way to stay alive.” She spoke in a calming tone, recalling her previous adventures and he slowly nodded.

“R-righto…”

As they slowly went outside, seeing how other residents laid the bodies aside, their ears heard a painful groan. “Did he have to hit so hard?”

Their eyes fell on an Elite soldier stumbling out of an alleyway, holding his chest and they ran up to him as they recognized the voice. “Cooper!”

The young Austrian found himself hugged, smiling under his mask. “Glad to see you are alright…”

His eyes fell on the residents with unease, as they glared at him, which did not go unnoticed by the children.

“Please, let him go.” Tungsten spoke up, “He was the one who found us first and gave us shelter.”

He and his friend tensed themselves for the worst as the residents looked at each other, unsure what would happen.

It was Miguel who stepped forward. “Get out of here.”

Nodding in gratefulness, Robison made his way to a nearby parked pickup and drove away.

“Now, we better get going. You can see the factory from the bridge out.”

They looked over and saw it faintly in the distance, as well, as a gorgeous tropical rainforest, winding rivers and small, rural towns.

It was truly a beautiful sight.

But Tungsten trembled slightly. “It's awfully high...”

“Don't worry, Tungsten, just stay back from the edge.” This startled him and he almost lost his balance but she and the siblings grabbed him to prevent him from falling.

“Don’t you think you can just jump off!” Blau remarked before the other colt nodded slowly and they got into 2 small SUVs, Miguel and another resident driving them towards the factory and faintly, Dinky could swear she saw a glint coming from one of the forest higher areas.

Again, none of the children could believe it but they all knew it was the only way to stay alive. It took only a short drive to get there. There were 3 small smaller houses around the premises, a bigger one in the middle, surrounded by guard towers, with a shooting range in the corner. All buildings had some parts of the plaster missing, showing their age.

“So, what now?” Katja asked as they got out.

“We need to get inside to power the factory but the entrance is kept shut by backup generators. We need to disable them to open the factory.” Miguel pointed to one of the small buildings. “But first, we got to get the door open. Those fuel barrels might do it.” He pointed to some red barrels next to the door.

Dinky and Tungsten looked at each other, the earth pony carefully pushed one barrel at the door, then went to a safe distance before Dinky fired a spell at it.

It exploded, blowing the door open and they saw the generator, it’s parts protected by a moveable plate but Dinky had an idea already.

Her horn lit up again, firing a non-lethal spell at it. As soon as the generator got it, it started to smoke and whined before shutting down.

At the same time, the siblings took care of another generator at the other end of the base. Katja pushed a barrel in front of the door and Blau used his hind hooves to buck a stone with great force at it, blowing the door open. He did the same with the generator inside, the force strong enough op make the plating fall off from the impact. The second stone caused the generator to catch fire and was destroyed with a small bang.

“Very good, now we can get inside, we need to flip the breakers in the control room to activate the power.” Their caretaker pointed to the large building in the middle, the doors now open.

Inside, apart from generators and left behind crates, were two large switches, one of each side. The ponies took the left, the siblings, the other, using all their strength.

Just as they did this, Miguel turned around to see the man who had beaten Gabriella arrive. He gave him and the children a small surprised glance before walking over to a console, activating the master override.

With a loud roar, the factory came to life, its production lines making noises as they started to produce and the man gestured everyone to join outside.

None of the children could believe their eyes. The residents of El Abismo had arrived while they tried to start the factory, now wearing improvised armor like motorcycle helmets as they acquired their newly produced weapons, an armored truck drove past them, now colored green with very colorful graffiti all over. The graffiti featured a green worm on the sides.

“You got us those guns just in time. The Black Hand are deploying their forces across the river.” Mira to him, her friend next to him as he added,

“We won’t be able to advance the line without more fighters.

“Any ideas?” His leader asked.

“We became soldiers after what you did in the slums. Create more Chaos. More recruits will come. A whole army of Chaos!” Sargento exclaimed and the man looked at the woman with a neutral expression.

“This is what you wanted from the start?”

Oscar Espinosa owns this island. The people can’t fight back without losing their jobs, their homes. And even if they tried what chance would they have against the Black Hand?” She stated in return with pity in her voice, “We have a mutual goal, Rico. You help these people defeat the Black Hand, and we’ll help you to get to Oscar Espinosa.”

“Ok, Mira, we’ll do it your way then. What’s first?”

With an eager grin, Luis held up a shotgun and pumped it. “I got some ideas, Rico! I will radio your eyeball with more information.”

Mira, on the other hand, looked in slight awe at the new army. “A whole army of chaos.”

It was there where the kids could get a good look at her and Luis. Both had brown hair and eyes, Luis’s hair was short, while Mira’s was locked into a short, knotted ponytail.

They and Rico turned towards the kids, the former were surprised but the latter, was surprisingly unfazed.

“You’re their caretaker?” Rico asked Miguel, who was now wearing knee and arm pads with a construction helmet, armed with an assault rifle.

“Si, senior!”

“Keep them safe.”

Again, the little filly could swear she saw a glint in the distance but shrugged it off as her imagination.

“So…anything else we might help you with?” Dinky asked in slight awkwardness, with Luis nodding.

“I had planned an ambush just down the road as we arrived, you could help with the supplies. Just keep your heads down, okay?”

They all nodded, getting back into the truck and drove towards a small village, staying in it as Miguel got out with some other fellow rebels, taking positions. They tensed themselves to see a small convoy, a truck, led by an APC and a Warrior in the back.

An AoC soldier fired an RPG at the transport, destroying it in a bock explosion. In response, the guards, all privates, jumped out of the other vehicles.

Miguel took aim, taking a deep breath as he pulled the trigger, hitting a private right in the chest as he barely got out of the truck’s driver seat. Blood splattered as he got thrown against it, no longer moving, all other guards suffered the same. It made the kids hope that Bruno was not among them.

They also took notice of how their host was slightly shaking as he made an all-clear gesture to them. “I…never fired a weapon before," He admitted, breathing heavily, “But I got nothing to lose.”

With a hint of pity, the kids nodded before pulling two creates from the truck, with Tungsten making an odd found. “What’s this?” He held up a small cylinder like object.

“Don’t touch it!" Sargento warned him, “But load it into our truck, we’re leaving in 60 seconds!” They did as told as Rico arrived, looking around in slight surprise.

“Did you organize this ambush?”

“Si. Most of the stuff we recovered is standard Black Hand munitions. But we also found some of these.” He showed Rico the cylinders Tungsten had discovered. Rico gave it an unsure but kinda intrigued look. “We’re not sure what they do. We didn’t want to mess with them.”

Curious, Rico pressed a button on it and to everyone’s surprise, a balloon unfolded from the top, lifting it into the air, rising rapidly into the sky. “Um, there’s a bunch more left in the truck.” Sargento remarked and his commander smiled.

“Good find, Sargento. These could be useful. Anyone have a screwdriver?” He asked his soldiers and one threw towards him and he caught it, fiddling with the cylinder and his grappling hook.

Are you adding that to your grappler? No Jodas!” Luis exclaimed in excitement, smiling and Rico simple stated,

“You have to make with whatever you find.”

“What are you going to do with that?” Sargento was clues and his ally fired it at a motorcycle that was left next to the truck, lifting it into the air and into the sky, causing Luis to look at it in awe. “Qué chimba!”

“Black Hand are coming, Sargento! A female army of chaos member warned.

“Mierda. Listo, I’ll drive the truck. I got a chopper nearby waiting to extract this.” Luis told Rico, who nodded and climbed onto the back of the truck.

“I’ll make sure you get there in one piece.”

The kids got back into their armored transport, with Miguel taking the gunner seat as they followed suit.

Not far from the start, they came across a bridge, a car wreck blocking the road and some dead privates were scattered around, hinting a firefight had happened there. Rico quickly uses his newly acquired balloons to lift it out of the way.

Shortly afterwards, they came across another bridge with a wreckage blocking it. With eyes widening, the kids took notice of a Black Hand soldier wearing a vest, underneath a red T-shirt, a combat helmet with an attached gas mask, and a large backpack. In his hands was a LMG, and oddly, what seemed to be a shield fixed to the front end of the gun.

He kneeled, the shield lowered a small pole that acted as a tripod, turning it into a makeshift cover, opening fire, making the truck’s passengers hope the armor would hold, holding each other for comfort and slightly trembling as Miguel was forced to keep his head low.

Despite the bullets flying around him, he took notice however, that the MG gunner’s head was exposed, carefully taking aim and fired. Blood splatted as the soldier fell on him back and Rico lifted this blockade with a balloon too.

As they drove through drove, 2 Warriors gave chase, but Miguel fired at their tires, making them crash into a tree.

At yet another bridge was a burning wreck of an APC but no soldiers, with Rico lifting it out of the way but the mercs had stepped up their game.

Apart from Warriors, Off-road buggies and bikes joined the chase, with Rico and Miguel firing at the tires or drivers to make them crash.

They eventually drove up a dirt road towards a hill and into another village, where AOC soldiers had fortified positions with sandbags.

Getting pointed towards some sandbags, the kids made their way over and stayed down as more privates arrived, battling with the rebels.

Their ears heard a chopper approaching, the same model Gabriela had used and privates prepared to rappel down. Rico fired his grappler at it, dragging it down and making it crash into a giant fireball.

With awe, Dinky and her friends saw how he fired his grappling hooks to reel soldiers into each there and knocked them, or to reel towards them for a powerful kick, knocking them down.

Eventually, the enemy retreated, making the children sigh in relief. Tungsten, however, trembled and breathed heavily. “I-I don’t think I felt so much adrenaline before…”

His friends hugged him, “It’s okay, you did great, we know how you feel.” Katja smiled weakly.

Doing a short walk to calm their nerves, their caretaker close behind them, they could overlook the river and front. The sky was filled with AA fire, ground blacked from all the explosive projectiles, and tank obstacles in position,

Both sides fired at each other from the river, none seemed to gain the upper hand. The Black Hand had tanks and attack choppers, with infantry hiding behind fortifications and cover like sandbags. Rico’s army only used the cavalry truck, and blind firing rebels, some hiding behind improvised cover, which consisted of traffic signs, wooden boxes and even washing machines.

It made the kids wonder how the rebels managed to hold their ground at all.

But for how long could they manage to do this?

It was a heavy burden, so the little unicorn decided to change the subject. “Miguel, can you tell us about Luis or Mira?”

His answer was a shrug. “There is not much to tell about Luis. He grew up in the slums, his mother dead, father long gone, but this taught him to improve in his life. Mira, though…” their friend thought for a moment, “I only know she used to be a pilot in the Black Hand before being dishonorably discharged for something.”

“Sounds like both had it rough, like you.” Blau replied with sympathy.

“I know, but I don’t look back anymore.”

“So, what now?” Dinky asked.

“That is up to Rico,” Sargento joined them. At the moment, he’s taking care of a Black Hand base in the region but I may got something you can help with.

“And that is?”

“We intercepted some strange transmissions from the Black Hand. They sent units to Puerto Tullu, a refinery and a port on the east coast. Apparently, a fleet of unmarked container ships is approaching and it worries them. We could need some intel on what is going on.”

They thought about it for a moment, then nodded and entered 2 civil SUVs to avoid attention.

Despite the distance, the road connections made it easy to get to their destination within a few minutes, parking a few meters from the entrance and getting close through the woods on foot.

It was nothing special the usual buildings for a harbor, like warehouses, plus silos for the refinery.

Some Elites and Privates were stationed in the harbor to investigate the ships, they seemed nervous about it, pacing around.

One Elite reached for his radio, as one of the ships had docked. “They are refusing to identify themselves, over.” He had an Australian accent, it was Cooper the kids realized.

Suddenly, their ears heard a rotator sound and their eyes went small to see a Hind emerging from the cargo shop, opening fire.

Cooper and the other soldiers made dash for their vehicles, bullets missing them by inches and retreated as he yelled into his radio. “Emergency! They have gunships, I repeat, gunships! We need help immediately, Solis is under attack!”

Dinky looked up and noticed the emblem on the chopper, not able to believe it. A silver and gold badge with a purple star in the center.

The Harmonious Guard? What are they doing here?

They could only watch in awe and somewhat fear as the Hind landed and soldiers jumped out. At the same time, a BTR climbed over the port’s railling, crushing a parked car, with more soldiers and other military vehicles leaving the ship.

Their brains told them to move but they were frozen by the amazing and frightening amount and display of troops, an officer stepped out, surrounded by his bodyguards, seeming to smile with what seemed pride at this success.

“The vultures have been fed and the world has seen our might. Now…” He pointed towards some Black Hand choppers in the sky, “clear the skies.”

In response, an AA tank with autocannons got into positions, raising its weapon towards the sky.

With shattering noise, it opened fire, causing the kids to cover their ears before seeing a chopper going up in smoke and flames.

“Let’s get out of here!” Miguel yelled but Tungsten’s ears twitched at a whistle.

“Watch out, artillery!” He yelled, it was in vain.

Screaming, a shell hit the ground next to him, getting thrown around and landing hard on his back, his vison blurry, ears ringing. His body was aching as he tried to roll over and get up, but he did not have the strength, falling down again.

His glasses were broken, yet he could faintly see how his friends were injured badly, wriggling on the ground in a pool of their own blood. It was only now he noticed he was bleeding badly too, pressing his hooves onto his bleeding chest to stop it.

The young colt fought with all his strength yet his vision slowly blacked out.

“M-mom…please…help me…”

Author's Note

The end, based on this scene from a great RTS game, World in Conflict

Chapter 4 New mission

Author's Note

This chapter has a slight innuendo scene, thus the sex tag. I am not sure if I played it down well enough, if anything things the rating should be changed de to this scene, please let me know

Chapter 4 New mission

“What in the world was that?!” Blue yelled in shock when she heard the children scream and saw they were gone.

“I don’t know but don’t worry, we’ll find them.” Fletcher assured her and they made their way to inform the princesses what had happened.

Despite the strange circumstance, it took the historians only a short time to find out what happened and Patch reported. “They seem to be having sent on earth, it’s a rainforest-like area this time.”

“Ah, at least a nice change from the desert.” Fray joked in an attempt to brighten up the tense mood.

“Any idea how this could have happened?” The cobalt blue mare asked the earth pony.

“No, but I assume it was no coincidence with that storm. Just at the same time, the Chronoscope had a slight malfunction.” He admitted sheepishly and the middle-aged mother connected the dots.

“You mean, your machine may have caused this?”

In response, he held his hooves up in defense. “Not directly. Based on how it causes dark mist, I just assumed it may have affected the storm or something.”

She just nodded and turned to Fletcher, who nodded. “I know, he’s your son, you want to go with me, granted.”

With that, they both donned the armor they used on their last adventure on earth.

“And we will be ready, if you need us.” Abstraction had joined with his fellow Dark horse members upon hearing the news, saluting.

“Your devotion to duty is commendable, Abstraction but I don’t want to risk you getting lost again, not as you’re now married with Lyra.” Fletcher replied with a weak smile.

“But, you can count on us.” Shadow and Tybalt gave him and Blue a nod, their expressions determined.

Wolf and Midnight gave Fletcher a hug, Pip and Nancy did the same with Blue. “Be careful.”

“Of course, I will be.” Blue gently broke it before she lit up her horn with Fletcher to cast the spell.

Her head ached, being disoriented and very exhausted.

It was all Blue could do not to collapse.

Every nerve in her legs felt numb, hooves jittering on the ground. It hurt to move her neck, having seemingly stiffened over hours. Her eyes blurred, mane stood on end. She could smell smoke and taste copper.

For a moment she was certain he hadn't come through alive.

Blinking several times, she looked around and stretched herself, groaning.

As her vision cleared, Fletcher offered her a hoof, which she gladly took as he asked, “Need a minute?”

“It’s all good now.” She replied and he took the lead, walking through the dense forest, their bow and rifle at the ready.

It was only a short time until they came past a road and took a look at the signs, recognizing the language. “Either we’re in Spain or South America.” Fletcher concluded.

“Question is, when.” His friend added as they moved on.

Nonetheless, their travel was uneventful, the sun setting and the clouds becoming dark. “A storm is coming, we have to be careful.” Fletcher realized as it started to rain, only for his companion to chuckle.

“A little rain won’t stop us, righto, Fletch?”

Barely had she spoken, a loud thunder came down, crackling. Both yelped and unintentionally hugged each other, with her adding, “Or we should seek shelter.”

Looking around, they spotted a cave and made a dash for it.

Once inside, they set up a campfire for the night, dining. “So, who shall take the night watch first?” Fletcher asked and she waved a hoof.

“Leave it to me.”

Nodding, Fray made himself comfortable, yet kept an eye on the portly mare. Closing his eyes, he faintly fell how she put a blanket over him.

Ever watchful, Blue Murder had her rifle at the ready, but knew the non-lethal rounds would not do much against an intruder if found.

And despite her best efforts, she struggled to keep her eyes open. Need to…stay awake… Her eyes snapped open, yawing before she closed her eyes, falling asleep.

She could not tell how long she had slept before she woke up, with Fletcher strangely gone. “Fletcher? Where are you?” Blue called out but got no reply.

Walking outside, the mare noticed it was still raining, nothing but silence, the ground was squishy, which unsettled her. For some reason, she felt fear, despite her experience.

She wasn’t afraid of the darkness but something told her she wasn’t alone, walking carefully through the woods. Faintly, she noticed the silhouette of a pony in the distance, appearing to lean against a wall, not moving. “Fray, is that you?”

Coming closer, her eyes went wide in shock, gasping at the sight. The pony was not Fletcher, but her friend Shadowplay. He was hanged on a meat hook through his chest. “Oh, holy Celesta…” The former merc had seen many brutal things but to see one of her friends to be killed like that…was beyond her imagination.

Then her ears flinched at a scream. “No, don’t!”

Tybalt! As fast as she could, she ran towards his voice, and froze in shock as she saw him lying on the ground, a hoof raised in a begging gesture at a smaller pony, but the darkness made it impossible to make out any details.

The young stallion screamed as the other pony slaughtered him by beating him savagely with its hooves, even seeming to feast on his throat.

Blue wanted to interfere but her body was frozen on the spot, unable to look away.

Her heart raced as the pony rose and stepped towards her, eyes small as she recognized the killer.

A colt with the same coat color as her and ginger mane. Her own son. He was breathing heavily, eyes glowing red and covered in blood.

Blue’s mind tried to process this all before giving the only logical order it could muster. Run.

And so she did, not looking back.

But without any warning, a sharp pain shot through her chest and she screamed at the top of her lungs. Vision flashing red, she saw how a thorny tentacle had pierced her, raising her into the air as she could only scream as this new level of pain.

Gasping, the middle aged mare shot up, panting and looking around frantically, cold sweat running down her fur.

Just a dream…Just a dream…

Her ears twitched at a faint weeping sound. Locating the source, she noticed it was Fletcher, slightly tossing around with a scared expression.

Reaching out, she attempted to calm him down. “Shh, Fletch, I am here.” Though what happened next she could not prepare for.

There was a whistling sound, followed by a loud explosion, startling her. Confused, Blue looked around to see she was now in what looked like a battlefield. Ponies in different uniforms charged at each other in melee and stabbed each other with spears and knives, some threw their opponent to the ground and beat him.

Then, her eyes fell on a unicorn stallion, who seemed to look around in confusion as well. It took her only seconds to realize this was Fletcher.

He seemed shell-shocked, trying to process what was happening around him. His head turned towards her, eyes wide as they fixed the mare with pure horror and fear.

Out of the corner of her eyes, she noticed another pony in the distance behind Fletcher, a hoof pressed to the chest as if expressing sympathy for Fray.

Gasping, Blue jumped back, breathing heavily at what she just had seen. How was she able to see this flashback at all? Some sort of ancient magic, triggered at touch?

Nothing made sense. And yet, she realized that even after centuries, Fletcher’s past still haunted him at times. That he still managed to keep it together and press on, was something she could only respect and be look up him in awe.

Nonetheless, the mare curled up and tried to sleep again. Just as she closed her eyes, she felt something ticklish on her coat, causing them to reopen again. Lighting up her horn, the unicorn looked around and spotted a spider climbing up her left foreleg.

With a scream, Blue Murder startled and instinctively threw the spider off her, accidentally making it land on Fletcher.

He shot up with a scream of pain. “What the hay was that?!” Fray looked at Blue with pained breath and she gave him an apologizing smile.

“Sorry, I got started by a spider. Need something against the pain?”

Her friend managed to wave a hoof. “Nah, the nanomites make me immune to most poisons. Let’s get back to sleep.”

Nodding, Blue turned her back to him, only to hear a moan and looked back out of concern. Her eyes noticed something twitching between his legs and her glance became one of irritation. “Oh…How flattering. Now put it away or I’ll be forced to take it off you and place it somewhere you won’t enjoy.”

However, with a pained expression and voice, Fletcher looked at her. “Can’t…bite from the spider… could you please…”

Blue’s eyes went wide as she realized what he meant. “No way am I doing that!” She exclaimed in disgust.

“Healing Spell?” Fray finished, causing her to blush slightly in embarrassment.

“Oh…of course. I know one that prevents permanent damage.” With that, she casted the spell, Fray sighed in relief.

“Ah…my sympathies, Fletcher.” Ifrit sounded awkward at this.

“Thanks…” The knight smiled weakly at the mare, she returned it before going back to sleep.

Yet, a thought invaded her mind.

Quite an impressive size he has…Is he really… Then she slapped herself mentally Come on, focus! Ugh, it just had to be that kind of spider…

Despite the awkwardness of this moment, they both got a peaceful sleep for the rest of the night, moving on in the morning, the rain had stopped

The way led towards an incline. “Careful, the rain made it likely slippery.” Fletcher warned as Blue took the first step.

To his horror, she slipped right away with a help and he tried to grab her but the force caused him to be dragged along, yelping as well.

Both fell down the hill, trying to catch themselves without success as they rolled and tumbled down.

Screaming in pain, Blue landed hard on her back but barely had time to react before Fletcher landed on top of her.

“Oof!” They exclaimed in unison before blushing as they unintentionally looked into each other’s eyes. ”Could you please get off me?” Blue asked

“Of course.” He did as told and helped her up before brushing the dust of themselves, continuing to walk without a word.

Again, it was only rainforest as far as they could see, yet Fletcher’s ears twitched. Blue seemed to mumble something and he looked at her. While her expression was neutral, Fray quickly figured out what was wrong. “You are worried about your son, aren't you?”

“I'm fine, Fletch.” She replied hastily, apparently caught off guard, getting a weak smile in response.

“There's no point in denying, I have learned over the years how to read ponies, even if they show no emotions.”

His partner sighed. “Okay, I'm worried about my son, I just don't want to lose him after Marmalade's death, he's the only thing I have left.”

With sympathy, he replied, “I know your pain, I told you about Ruhlinda.”

Blue thought about it. It had been on a way to a mission that Fray told her about it, how he blamed himself, afraid of losing anypony else but let him continue.

“But I'm confident Dinky, Katja and Blau make sure Tungsten's fine.”

Now, her expression was unsure, stopping. “What makes you so sure?”

“Let me lend your hoof.” Gently, his hoof took hers, placing on his chest. “What do you feel?”

Feeling a gentle beat, she could not help but blush at this…close and personal action of him. “Y-your heartbeat.”

“Correct. And now?” His hoof got led a few inches from his heart, feeling a rough surface just barely over the fur and flesh where his heart was and she realized what this was.

“A scar.”

“Right. Back in Africa, I got fatally injured but thanks to Dinky and the siblings, I survived. Without their help, I wouldn't be here right now. And if they could help a millennia-old ex-knight commander escape death, I reckon Tungsten's in safe hooves.”

The middle-aged mare let those words sink in. Her Farman friend had a point. And yet, it reminded her of something. “Did I ever tell you how I met my husband?”

“No.” Fletcher shook his head, causing her to sigh.

“You probably expect a very romantic one, Fletch. But actually, it was very simple. As a colt, he carried out the newspaper every day, thus we met regularly. And so, we became good friends and eventually lovers.”

To her surprise, he smiled. “Sounds as good as any other start of love for me.”

With a weak smile, she replied, “Appreciated.” Then she looked around, taking in the rainforest. “Seriously, how big is this Rainforest? I feel like we are walking for hours through it.”

“I am sure we get out soon enough.” Fray was calm, reaching a clearing on a hill. Both took notice of smoke, pulling out their binoculars, they saw what seemed to be civilians in colorful clothing taking cover behind a destroyed car, fighting soldiers in blue uniforms.

Their ears twitched and saw an attack chopper in the sky, fired missiles at the desperate humans, yet missed. With horror, the ponies saw how the chopper turned towards them.

“I’ll take care of it!” Fray took aim with a charged arrow and fired at the rotor before it could fire at them, It’s rotor exploded, making the chopper spin around.

“Goodnight ya bastard...” Blue commented at the shot before the chopper fired his missiles again, crashing towards them. “Ahh...crap! Run!”

Both made dash towards the words, Fletcher made it and turned around. With horror and fear in his eyes, he saw that the mare tripped and fell to the ground. “No, no, no, no!” She yelled, the chopper hitting the ground, its blades kicking up dust as they shredded to pieces, stopping inches from her. Her forelegs caught the only intact blade, stopping it inches from her body.

“Blue!” Fray ran towards her, concerned, she coughed from the dust, looking at a piece of shrapnel stuck in her right hindleg.

“I can't move...

Giving a weak smile, Fletcher carefully pulled it out, bandaged her wound and casted a healing spell. “Don’t worry, I can carry you.”

With that, he gently lifted her on his back. “Easy now...” His friend mumbled as he did so and he carefully made his way down the hill.

Once down, the ponies saw that the civilians were gone and the soldiers dead. The Chopper going down probably had served as the distraction they need.

One of the soldiers was lying with his back against an armored off-road car. His uniform consisted of a cloak with hood, face covered by a mask, with night vision goggles over it and a few components of natural camouflage over his shoulders. A sniper.

Fletcher took his sniper rifle, together with an Assault rifle from another soldier. “Could come in handy, what shall I get you?”

“That SMG would do it for me.” She pointed to another dead soldier, knowing what Fletcher had in mind and he nodded.

He gave it to her, then opened the passenger door of the car and gently sat her in it. “We can get around faster that way.”

“I don’t mind but I hope you don’t cause anything that gets us pulled over.” Blue replied with slight worry as Fletcher took the driver seat.

“I have driven before, trust me.”

Their car had tinted windows, so it was easy to avoid odd looks as they traveled along the road, eventually coming to a highway, with Fletcher looking at the radio. “Mind some music?”

She shook her head and the dial lightened in Fletcher’s magic, turning on and playing a rock song.

It was a quiet journey, overtaking other cars and occasionally seeing other military vehicles in traffic.

Time passed until the sun was about to set in an orange-colored sky, showing that evening arrived.

Fray steered towards a country road that led into a small forest, hidden from unwanted company.

He made a campfire and helped Blue out of their transport, the mare limped still a bit as he checked on her injury. “Good news, its already better but it still takes some time.”

“Better than nothing, I hate it to slow you down.” Her expression was neutral, though her voice was one of disappointment.

“You’re not slowing me down, Blue.” Her partner smiled weakly. “I am glad to have your assistance here. Besides, it does not look serious, should be healed within a few days

“Still, I can’t really fight in this state, can I?” Now, she sounded somewhat frustrated with herself, getting an expression of empathy.

“Don’t worry, you can still use your rifle.” He walked over and put his hoovers over her shoulder, massaging her.

Caught off guard, a moan of relief escaped Blue, arching her head. “Where did you learn this?"

“Oh, I learned a lot during my time and…from Rarity when she insisted to invite me and my 2 friends to the Spa once after I got Dinky back from Africa.”

Now, the unicorn mare chuckled. “Funny, I got Nancy a Spa coupon once as a gift, thought it could help her relax.”

Fray just nodded before they dinned and hit the hay.

As morning approached, Fletcher casted his tracking Spell, his eyes wide in surprise. “They appear to be closer to our current position now.”

“Righto, let’s not waste any time then!” Blue Murder exclaimed before suddenly twitching, her chest aching as a voice echoed in her head

“M-mom…please…help me…”

“What’s wrong?” Fray asked concerned as her expression became determined.

Mummy's coming, baby colt. Mummy won't let them hurt you!

Chapter 5 Common cause

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 6 Intel and planning

Fletcher walked through a hallway and towards a door, having been told that Blue had a gift for him. He wondered what the gift could be. As he opened, he couldn't believe his eyes.

Blue Murder was lying on a bed, a rose between her teeth, smiling. "Ready to get your gift, Fletch?"

The stallion was giving a nervous chuckle. "Thank you but I have other things to-" Before he could finish, Blue's magic aura surrounded him and he yelled, "DO!" as he got dragged in and the door closed.

Fray shot up gasping, looking around. A sigh of relief came over him as it had been just a dream, yet his head ached and…he felt something warm near him.

His eyes went small to see Blue next to him, groaning as she woke up too. “Ugh…my head. What happened?” She held her forehead before suddenly holding her throat. “I think I’m gonna…”

With that, the mare jumped off the bed and dashed out of the room and the stallion heard the sounds of throwing up. “Hope that isn't what I think it is.” He commented with slight fear.

Shortly afterwards, Blue Murder came back, looking not too pleased. “What did we do last night, Mr. Fray? For your sake, I hope you remember.” She asked in a surprisingly calm voice as she grabbed a knife.

“You passed out as the barkeeper accidentally gave you the strongest drink.” Anna explained to them. “Still, we got some Intel but you were out for the rest of the day.”

This gained relief from both, yet as Anna walked out, Blue took notice that, her partner was wide-eyed, slightly ill-looking as he was pale. “You alright? You look sick.” She asked worried, knowing this was not caused by her reaction.

Hesitating, Fray replied. “I...didn't sleep well.”

“You want me to feel your forehead?”

To her surprise and confusion, Fletcher jumped back in terror. “NO! I never wanted you to feel my...wait...you said forehead, right? One word, forehead? That was what you said?” He asked awkwardly and she nodded

“Well, yeah...What did you think I said?

“Er...Ooh, is that toast I smell? Great, I'll have some of that! We'll continue this conversation never.” Fray said abruptly and in awkwardness before dashing out of the room.

It left Blue completely puzzled why he acted so weird all of the sudden. Nonetheless, she followed him, wanting to check on her son.

Fletcher seemed to have the same idea, as he reached the room shorty before her, smiling to see the kids happy. “How are you, Dinky?”

“My chest still hurts a bit but otherwise, fine.” Her friends nodded to tell the same.

“That’s good to hear.

“Indeed it is.” James' voice sounded as he entered, “If it heals well, you should be out in a few days.”

Blue smiled herself, happy her son would be alright, then remembered something. “Did you arrange for someone to pick Shadowplay and Tybalt up?

He nodded. “Kyle is already on it as we speak. Once they arrive, I give you a briefing on the situation on the front. If you need anything, ask Romanov.” He looked at a soldier that had an athletic build, clean-shaved, reddish-brown hair, his eyes calming blue.

“Tovarishj, komandir.” Romanov saluted before turning towards the kids “Pleasure to meet you” He said before James walked out, with Tungsten noticing something.

“Why do you have the Russian flag with a bear as patch?” He pointed to the man’s right shoulder and he chuckled.

“Well, young stallion, it’s kinda family related. You see, my grandmother was a famous general back in the Second World War, or the Great Patriotic War as it was called in the Soviet Union, “Katyusha Medveditsya Kallistrovich.”

The eyes of the ponies went wide, he was the son of Arkturi Lovec?”

“So…you’re the son of her son?” Dinky mumbled in disbelief.

“Da, I am. Sadly, the famous She-bear died in 2001 but neither I, nor my father nor forget her.” He told them, his head slightly lowered before looking up. “You are probably wondering how I got here.” Dinky nodded with her friends.

“You see, my father served with Big Boss until the end in 1995,when it was destroyed by the NATO through a massive aerial bombardment, with my father and his friend being among the survivors. They went back to Russia, trying to live their lives in peace, as they felt their time as Dogs of War came to an end. The reorganization of Russia made it difficult to get normal jobs, but James offered them desk jobs in his organization, saying it was the least he could do for the son of such a famous officer.”

The kids stayed quiet, trying to process everything, and so did the 2 adults before Blau broke the science. “How’s your father?”

Romanov sighed. “Dead. He and Sergei died a natural death in 2015. I miss him, but he will be alive with his commander in my heart. Myself, I joined the Russian military to make my father proud, also, due to my father’s job during his time in the Red Army, I developed an expertise in Western culture. As such, James encouraged me to have positive interactions with any members from the west. That’s how I got to know Kyle, becoming best friends.”

“Like father, like son, eh?” Blue commented with a weak smile.

“Yes. Unfortunately, while I made it into Spetsnaz, my career ended just after a few months. let’s just say, I fell out with the way my commander acted, prompting James to offer me a place."

“So…what’s next?” Fletcher asked the former Spetsnaz.

“Well, with the sudden emergence of the Army of Chaos, I assume James will try to meet up with them to discuss working together. Thanks to some vanguard units acting as scouts, we were aware of what was going on before our main force arrived, It was also one of those scout teams who informed us about you, callsign Occulus Accipiter, which means Hawk's Eye.” This made Dinky realize what the glint was she had noticed before.

“Despite this unexpected return of events, it was inevitable. Our massive preparation have gone on far too long for us to simply stand down. We were like a coiled spring, ready to throw ourselves into the fray. All we waited for was one word: Attack!” Romanov exclaimed before giving a weak smile. “Quite ironic. During my time in the Russian Military, Spirits were mostly high and the men joked about how we will crush the enemy with one fell stroke…But some didn't laugh. They had been to Chechen and other conflicts. They knew war.”

The kids let those words sink in, unable to imagine it. They knew war was not nice, how the recruits would be mistaken but being so assured of victory?

“Anyway, I am sure your help will come in handy. And that of your two friends, should be arriving shortly.

Tybalt and Shadowplay groaned as they came to. “I guess we have arrived…” The earth pony mumbled dazed as he helped his friend up, looking around. They were in a grass field.

"I will need some time to get used to this…” Shadowplay mumbled before they saw a Kübelwagen driving towards them, the driver poked his head through the window.

“There you are. I am Kyle, get in.” They did as told, recognizing the logo, having been told a pickup was dispatched. Both could still not believe what they had gotten into.

They both got to Canterlot as fast as could after being informed they are needed, bowing to Luna out of respect. “Rise. We got a message from Blue and Fletcher. It seems they and the children got themselves into the middle of a civil war. As such, they requested that I sent you to assist.”

“We understand.” Shadow replied before he got pulled into a hug by a lunar guard and a batpony filly with teal mane and yellow eyes.

“Be careful, daddy!”

“I will be, sweetie.” He replied with a weak smile.

A unicorn mare faced Tybalt, her blue eyes filled with fear as he hugged her, gently stroking her pink mane that had white strips. “Don’t worry, Candy, I know what I am doing.” He spoke in a calming voice.

“Stay alive, for me, for Bullseye.” She whimpered, holding their child, a baby earth pony colt with a white coat and grey mane in one leg, who babbled with a slight fearful expression, as if knowing what was about to happen.

“Of course, dear.” He gently broke it.

“Now,” Luna spoke up, “I will cast the spell that brings you to earth but it will be a bit disorienting. Also, it will make sure you won’t run out of ammo, Tybalt, just in case supplies can't be met for you.”

They nodded and shielded their eyes as the Alicorn’s horn glowed brightly.

Nonetheless, the drive was short, arriving at the base within a few minutes, getting greeted by Blue and Fletcher. “Glad you could make it. And good timing, there is a mission we can help with,” the mare told them leading them towards a small building, where James was waiting for them at a planning table.

“Good, you have arrived.” He gave a welcoming smile, before looking at the map, it displayed the roads of Solis. “We got to link up with the rebels in the south of the country. To do this, we got to secure the bridge leading into the city of Watasumag, then the city itself to use it as a staging point for our advance. Our scouts reported the Black Hand is retreating and likely trying to destroy the bridge to stall us. Now, you are to help us with this.

“And how?” Tybalt asked into the round.

“We already have some airborne troops in the area to secure them but you and Shadowplay can assist them. Fletcher and Blue, you can assist the main force. Go the armory and take whatever you need.”

They all nodded and walked towards the supplies. Fletcher and Blue grabbed some ammo, as well as a luger each as sidearm. Shadowplay took a P38 and MP40. “I may use throwing knives but best save them when I really need them. You should take something too, Tybalt.”

“Thank you, but I prefer to stay with my revolvers.” He politely declined, only to receive a firm look from his comrades.

“I get you prefer your guns but having something for range and with more stopping power could prove useful in a pinch.” His batpony friend pointed out.

“Fine, but I won’t like it.” Tybalt had disdain in his voice as he grabbed himself a STG-44, he and the other stallion also were provided with ponyfication devices, both fascinated by it.

“See you there, guys, be careful.” Blue gave both a caring hug, they returned it.

With that done, the 2 stallions boarded a Mil Mi-8 “Hip”, getting flown towards their objective. It was only a short flight, seeing from the window the city.

What was distinctive at first, was that the city was on 3 islands and the mainland, consisting mostly out of multistory buildings. Their pilot hovered next to a small forest near the city, Shadowplay jumped out, using his wings to glide down, while Tybalt rappelled down.

They were met by a squad of paratroopers, led by Anna. “Good, you are here. The Black hand has only a small rearguard and the city has been evacuated, but stay on your guard.”

Going through the forest for cover, they saw several fortifications. Bunkers made from sandbags and cement covered by a tarp for camouflage, either armed with a machine gun or recoilless rifle, manned by a single soldier. Also, privates and Elites patrolled around, but the stallions took notice of a few soldiers wearing light body armor, with googles and a mask, covered by a hood.

“Careful, those are Ghosts, specialized in hit and run tactics, as well as ambushes.” Anna warned before looking at 2 privates next to the forest, giving the batpony a sign to take them out. He sneaked behind one as he had his back to him, grabbed his mouth and slit his throat, quick and painless.

As the other one turned around, Shadowplay quickly threw one of his knives towards the throat taking them out before he could react, then retrieved his knife.

Having a clear shot now, the paratroopers prepared to fire panzerfausts to destroy the MG positions, Tybalt adopted a runner’s position, which the officer took notice of. “Just leave some left for us.”

“I try to.” He replied before the soldiers fired, blowing fortifications to pieces. It was his sign to dash forward, unleashing a wave of death as he fired at privates and Elites before they could react. His allies fired from the woods at any hostile he left alive in his path, then stormed forward.

“See you later!” One Ghost yelled and both stallions noticed how the Ghost soldiers turned invisible, realizing they had to be on their guard. Just as the earth pony run dry, out of the corner of his eyes, a sudden flash was aimed at him. Having only seconds to spare, Tybalt dove out of the way and fired a shot from his rifle.

There was a cracking sound, followed by an electric crack and a Ghost soldier became visible, falling to the ground in a puddle of blood. “One Ghost down!”

He flinched as a knife flew past his head, turning around to see it get stick midair, revealing another Ghost as he fell to the ground, dead, the knife between the eyes. “Make that two.” His comrade added as he retrieved it.

“Great work, let’s move to the bridge!” Their superior ordered and everyone moved out. In the distance, they could see the bridge, guarded by a few soldiers. Oddly enough they all carried ballistic shields among the usual gear of helmet, gas mask and bulletproof vest, armed with SMGs.

Behind them was a different soldier, this one was dressed in a large, bulky protective vest and a distinctive combat helmet having visor, also a grenade belt on the chest. A grenadier and demolition expert/engineer they realized.

“Damn, they are already here! Hold them off!” The grenadier yelled with a robotic voice as he tried to plant charges on the bridge, his comrades formed a wall, firing at their enemy.

Getting suppressed the ponies and elite soldiers were forced into cover behind wall, unable to use hand grenades at this range. “If they destroy the bridge, it was all for nothing and we’re cut off!” Anna yelled in frustration.

Knowing they had not much time, the stallions came up with an idea, nodding at each other without a word.

Shadowplay took to the skies, flying above the enemies and fired his weapon before they could react, taking a few out. As they tried to raise their shields towards him, Tybalt charged forward, firing his guns. 4 more fell to their combined efforts, making the wall formation crumble, allowing the others to advance.

The grenadier started slightly but was not willing to give up. “Get some!” He reached for his grenade launcher, a Milkor M32 MGL and fired.

His foes scattered to avoid his fire, the projectiles having a bright red-orange trace as they arced across the air, yet this gave Tybalt just the moment he needed.

Closing the distance, the white-specked pony aimed one revolver at his enemy’s head. “Not good enough.” Pulling the trigger, the bullet had no trouble penetrating the helmet at this close distance, blood splattered as the grenadier stumbled and fell to the ground.

Yet the ears of the former bandit twitched at a beeping sound, seeing how the grenades on the belt started to blink, his eyes went small. “Oh, crap!”

He dived into a ditch for cover, hooves over his head. As expected, the explosions deafened his hearing, groaning from the ringing in his ears, his vision slightly blurry. His friend helped him up with slight concern. “Still in one piece?”

“I am fine.”

“Great job, the bridge is secured, now we got to hold it.” They got praised by Anna as she put a hand over her radio.” General, the bridge is secured.”

“Excellent, we are on our way now, I send you light support for holding it.” James acknowledged.

“Alright, let’s make some fortifications on our own.”

With that, the stallions helped to fill sandbags and create other defensive positions, yet Tybalt grumbled, “I am a highly trained mercenary, not a combat engineer…”

“Hey, see it from the bright side, could save your life, plus helps with the defense until the main force arrives.” Shadowplay pointed out.

Just then, 2 Mi-26 Halo arrived, delivering a UAZ-469 and Kübelwagen each to help with the defense. “They may be only lightly armored, but the machine guns still pack a punch.” A soldier commented.

Blue and Fletcher waited eagerly, yet also somewhat tensed as James came to them. “Our paratroopers were successful, now we can advance“ He switched his officer uniform for a helmet and light body armor before gesturing them to follow.

They came towards a troop convoy of transports in form of trucks, IFVs and some LUVs, as well as tanks, the latter mixed between the soviet era and German ww2 vehicles. The two ponies were entering a BMP-2 with Kyle and Romanov.

“What can we do for you?” The commander of the BMP asked his leader in a friendly tone before moving out, turning to his passengers. “Lean back and enjoy the ride.”

During their drive, the two snipers noticed some artillery had already landed in the area, seeing a broken swing set lying on its side, next to a blackened crater.

“You know,” Kyle mumbled, “All this made me realize something. War can be fascinating to watch on TV, but up close personally it's a whole other story. Imagine your office blown to pieces, your car thrown about like a discarded glove, and your friend lying on the street, his body torn to bloody shreds. As such, I hope this war will not affect the civilians too harshly.” He shivered slightly, sounding afraid.”

Both Blue and Fletcher had seen their fair share of war, knowing what he was talking about.

“We are here, everyone out!” The driver yelled and the soldiers opened the doors. “Fletcher, Blue, get on that Water tower and provide support!” James ordered as he pointed to it and they did as told.

They saw the infantry advancing, supported by the IFVs and tank, firing at their canons at the enemy, who tried to break the paratroopers’ defensives. The blank Hand’s forces consisted mainly of infantry, with light tanks and IFVs as support Looking through their scopes, the snipers could see how Shadowplay was using his blood magic to teleport back and forth to confuse enemies as he fired at them. Tybalt dashed between the defenses, firing at the hostile infantry to reinforce the defenses as needed, with the 2 LUVs doing the same with their MGs. James fired an iron-sighted K98 with great precision, aim at the next hostile between operating the bolt as one fell after another, showing how bolt action rifles were still deadly in the right hands.

Nonetheless, Blue and Fletcher fired at every enemy infantry they saw to support the main force, the infantry was mainly privates and Elites, supported by MG gunners. But they quickly took notice of Black Hand soldiers that wore heavy, dark blue clothing, dark ski masks and heavy explosive protection, armed with RPGs. Realizing the danger to their allied vehicles, the snipers made them priority targets, trying to take them out before they could fire.

This allowed the main force to break the enemy line without much trouble, pushing them back. Suddenly through, a CH-53E in Black Hand colors appeared between the clouds, hovering in the middle of battle.

Smoke got popped as its passengers rappelled down and the eyes of the snipers went wide. Among the reinforcements was a Black Hand soldier wearing what seemed to be a powered exoskeleton. But that wasn’t alarming. It was his weapon.

A large, white rifle with a yellow cylinder on the bottom of the weapon, Its muzzle charging with blue streaks of electricity that grew brighter and brighter. It fired then a brilliant blue projectile towards a tank, leaving a glowing streak behind it.

The tank exploded, its turret blown off in a fireball, startling them.

“Is that…a fricking railgun?!” Fletcher heard Blue exclaim in shock and disbelief.

But before he could form any reply, they saw the soldier aimed into their direction, his weapon now emitting a red glow. “Fletcher, get out!” Fray felt how he got pushed, the water tower exploded just moments after.

Crying out in pain, Blue hit the ground hard, her vision was blurry, barely able to make out Fletcher next to her. The mare saw faintly how some soldiers took cover behind their armored vehicles, unable to advance before she suddenly heard a muffled voice.

“I gotcha, Blue! You'll be all right! You're gonna be just fine!” It had a British accent and…sounded oddly familiar to her.

An HB soldier entered her vision, his eyes hazel, hair blond and looking around before dragging her, with Kyle dragging Fletcher, getting both gently sat down behind a destroyed Black Hand tank. Her helper then cracked a slight smile, giving her a pat on the shoulder before running out of her sight, just when she recovered.

“Are you alright?” She looked at Fray, who nodded. Peeking out of their cover, they see how their allies fired their guns at the heavily armed enemy but he shrugged off any bullets from their guns.

“Is this all you got?” He taunted, charging up another shot.

“Take that!” Tybalt yelled as he tackled the hostile to the ground and aimed one revolver at the head, the Black Hand soldier struggled before blood splattered from his head.

“Retreat! Fall back!” One of the regular soldiers ordered as their advantage was lost, with all Black Hand forces pulling back, popping smoke.

“That was unexpected to see a Titan, those are the heavy of the Black Hand forces and are trained and equipped to deal with high-level threats while protecting critical military assets and personnel.” James explained to the ponies, although having a calm expression. “Light casualties so far, be careful!”

As they crossed the bridge, some of his soldiers checked the wounded, and treated them. Ears twitching, the ponies heard a painful groan, turning towards it. It belonged to a wounded Black Hand Elite, lying against a wreck, bleeding from his leg.

Without any hesitation, the officer approached slowly, careful of how the injured enemy would react. He looked up but did not react or reach for any weapon. Taking this as tolerance, Günther reached for his medical supplies and treated the wound, the patient groaned again in pain. “W-why?” He had an Australian accent.

“Because, as a medic, I am obliged to treat the wounded of either side.” James simply replied.

In response, the wounded Elite chuckled. “Guess it’s true what they say, that you’re honest and honorable.”

Just then, a scout team returned. “Sir, we did not detect any enemy presence in the city.” This surprised the ponies, Kyle and Romanov, but James stayed neutral.

"Some called it an organized retreat, but I think it seemed that way as we were all running in the same direction. Watasumag and its region were lost the moment your ships entered the port, there was never any real chance of holding it.” The enemy commented before two other medics brought him away.

A few troops stayed back before the convoy moved on, the ponies all entering a BMP-2 again with Kyle and Romanov. “It’s good the intimal landing went well, we secured the region within a few days. It feels great to finally roam free after having spent weeks inside the cramped container ships.” The Russian told, relief in his voice.

“I can imagine that.” Tybalt replied. “Where are we headed now?”

“As far as I know, the rebels managed to secure the Hamparas and Islas Machaqwayes regions. We are currently moving to the latter to meet their leader. Apparently, there is only a radar base in this region, defended by missile launches but the revels assured they are deactivated.”

Blue did only semi-listing, lost in thought. Her helper had it been just her imagination that the voice was familiar to her? She couldn’t tell. Or was her past hunting her?

“We are here.” Fletcher gently shook her shoulder, tearing her out.

“Wha-?” Ah, righto.” She nodded, taking in her surroundings. The base was on a mountain, which was split in the middle by a canyon that had constant wind in it, with the facility itself having a big set of satellite dishes and 3 missile launchers.

Several humans in colorful clothing looked surprised at the convoy, with a CH-53E in the same colors landing, 2 women and a man stepped out.

“So, you’re the leaders of the army of Chaos?” James asked and one of the women stepped forward.

“Not directly, I am Mira, the second in command this,” She pointed to the man and woman, are the third in command, Luis and Izzy, our hacker and communication expert.”

Just then, a bird scream startled everyone and they looked up to see another man falling out of the sky but managed to stabilize himself using a grapple hook. “Our leader-“

“Rico Rodriguez,” James finished for Mira, sounding intrigued, “I should have expected that.”

“So, you are here to support us?” Rico asked distrustfully.

“Yes, an environmental NGO.”

“Hmm, that would make sense,” Mira added before Rico could reply, “Project Illapa was subject to investigations by several environmental NGOs in the past, but as you might expect, they never got any conclusive result.”

“And we could need the logistical support like proper helmets and training to even the odds, plus train more recruits for our vehicles.” Luis pointed out.

Rodriguez gave the German a quick glare, considering his options, making the ponies tense.

Would bullets fly if he refused?

It seemed like minutes until he spoke up. “Fine then, we’ll work together. Offering a hand, James shook it. “But we need to investigate a distress signal I received.”

“And attacking Illapa directly is not an option, it has automatic artillery, but we got a plan.” Rico’s second in command produced a map of Solis, each climatic zone having a certain location marked with a circle. “Those facilities house prototypes weather cores, each connected to the defense network. If we plant a virus into each core, we can disable the defenses.”

“In order to do this, we have to do a country-wide invasion…” Kyle sounded unsure.

The ponies also looked at each other with uncertainty. This could take weeks, if not months. Could they truly do this?

James opened his mouth to reply but his radio ringed. “Yes?”

“Sorry to interrupt, sir,” Linda sounded on the other end, “Commander Morales has contacted us. She’s offering a cease-fire and wants to meet you for a parley.”

Chapter 7 forward and secrets

Everyone looked surprised at this sudden news. “Did I hear this right?” James asked.

“Yes, sir.” His confidant replied.

He opened his mouth but before the man could say anything, Fray raised a hoof. “Don’t go, James, it could be a trap.”

His creator had a neutral expression, seeming to consider his options. “I appreciate your concern but whatever she has to say, a cease-fire will help us to prepare our advance and defensive positions. Fletcher, you and your friends can watch my back, better safe than sorry.” They nodded.

“I know my cousin, she may be cunning, but still is professional.” Mira pointed out.

With that, James entered a Kübelwagen, the ponies joined in another, following him in another, towards the outskirts of the region and near a forest. Keeping their distance, the group watched as James and Kyle walked into the woods, stopping as a woman approached, having a neutral expression.

Gabriella saluted, James did the same before she spoke up. “General Günther, I was hoping we would meet.”

“What’s the purpose of this meeting?” James asked in return.

“This isn’t your fight, General.” Her voice was respectful. “Withdraw your troops, neither of us has to lose more soldiers in fighting each other.”

“I am afraid, I can’t I have a contract to do, you surely know that. Plus, I would not be able to leave without proof Project Illapa is not for military purposes” Günther countered calmly, yet his interlocutor was not fazed, giving a slight nod.

“Of course, I can compensate you for that and give you written proof as required. Until then, I simply request you stand down and let us deal with those rebels.”

“If that’s all, I see what I can do.” Both commanders saluted again and walked away.

“Do you think we can trust her?” Fray asked concerned.

“I have no doubt we will get into more battles but I can tell she tries to end this without further bloodshed. But for now, let’s help Rico with that distress signal he discovered.”

Nodding they followed him in the car and towards what seemed to be a crash side, seeing smoke in the distance, despite being cloudy.

It was indeed a crash side, a destroyed helicopter near a cliff in the forest. Rico was already there, holding a man with grey hair and slight beard, his blue eyes unfazed as he carried boxes around, dressed in a Hawaii shirt with a bulletproof vest over it.

“Why are you here, Sheldon?” Rico demanded distrustfully.

“When you went dark after Medici, I figured I’d look through some of your old files…see where you might end up. Turns out, your dad was working with Oscar Espinosa back in the day. Something called Project Illapa.” Sheldon explained calmly, with a Texan accent, but Rico was not impressed, raising an eyebrow.

“What do you know about Illapa?”

“I know there’s lots of buzz about Solis at the Agency these days, talk of weather modification technology, strategic atmospherics” Hearing those words made the ponies unease as the apparent Texan gestured, “Of course, once the higher-ups heard that I was looking at those Illapa files, I ended up on administrative leave.” He grabbed another crate.

“Guess I’m not the only one who doesn’t trust Tom Sheldon.” Rodriguez commented flatly.

“I know you’re looking to take out Illapa, Rico.” Sheldon countered, “I’ve already done some of the leg work.”

Despite this, Rico pointed at him with distrust. “You screwed me over more than once in Medici, I don’t want your help, Sheldon.”

“Well, you gonna need it. I did some snooping around Zona Dos. Turns out the place is constantly surrounded by a nasty lightning storm. Tom put a hand on the chopper with a slightly sad expression. “Fried poor Annabelle here.” Then he looked back at Rico with an odd look. “That seems pretty suspicious to have a standing lighting storm like that, don’t you think?”

A snap tore them out as Mira joined. “This a friend of yours, Rico?” She asked neutrally.

“Not exactly. Mira Morales, this is Tom Sheldon. Known him for twenty years. He cannot be trusted” The former agency member introduced with disdain but the woman smiled.

“Buenas.”

“Don’t listen to this guy, senorita. Pleased to meet ya.” Tom gave a short wave. “Rico and I were just discussing the situation with Zona Dos”

And you know how to access the core?” She asked in return, gaining slightly surprised expression.

“I don’t know anything about a core, but…I got a good idea how to get us past that lighting storm.”

“Good luck with Annabelle, Sheldon. We’ll figure something else out. Rico interrupted and turned to leave but his second-in-command opened her mouth.

“He’s got a plan, Rico. And we don’t!”

This caused him to stop, slowly turning around. “Talk.” His voice was cold.

“Okay. Now there’s a river that runs underneath the facility. I figure we use a boat to get close. You remember the Stingray base back in Medici. Same basic concept.” Tom explained and his fellow concluded.

“You want to make a lighting-proof boat.”

“Bingo. Now, I also hear there’s a nearby research lab that’s testing a way to harness lighting. Figure we find something there to protect the boat. Spare us poor Annabelle’s fate.

“You’re talking about that facility in the Mountains. Meteolab.” Mira added and he chuckled.

“You got it”

“And we could do the custom boat at Prospero Astillero.”

Interesting.” Rico commented and Tom nodded.

“Eh, coming around, aren’t ya?”

“Why are you doing this, Sheldon?” Tom’s former partner wanted to know.

“Well…” The Texan’s eyes darted around, as if unsure what to say. “Because I owe you, Rico. You wanna take down Illapa, I wanna help you do it. Besides, we both know we just can’t have anybody running around with a weather weapon for God’s sake!”

“You got a better idea?” Rico asked into the round, her commander shook his head.

“You know, for a minute there, I thought you were gonna shoot me.” Tom laughed, only to get a glare.

“Not this time, Sheldon.”

James took this moment to step forward. “Well, with your reunion done, I suggest we come up with a plan”

Sheldon looked at him in surprise, yet nodded. “Fancy meeting you here, Kommandant but if this requires you, I don’t complain.” He gave the ponies a quick look, not fazed by them at all.

“How can we help you?” Fletcher asked his creator, only for him to shake his head.

“You have done enough for today, get some rest, I am sure the kids miss you. Leave the planning to me.”

Nodding, knowing he had a point, they got back into their car and to the nearest allied base and prepared to hit the hay in the cots.

“I wish you a good night’s sleep.” Fray said hastily as he lay down in a cot a few meters away from the others. This caused the former mercs to briefly look at each other in confusion before they fell asleep as well.

The next day, Dinky and her friends got provided with some laptops and played BeamNG.drive, a vehicle simulation video game, featuring unique soft-body physics. They were on east coast USA on the highway, she drove an Ibishu Covet, Katja a police grand Marshal, both chasing after the colts who drove both Gavril Roamer SUVs.

While the unicorn was not much of a gamer, she played some games with button Mash from time to time.

“You never catch us alive!” Blau exclaimed, enjoying it to the fullest, Tungsten close behind. However, at the upcoming tunnel, the grey colt was unable to brake in time, crashing against the wall, screaming. “Oh no!”

“Watch out!” His friend warned as he could not stop either, crashing into him, flattening both cars.

“We got you now!” The girls followed, laughing as she crashed into them. Crashing cars in the game was so much fun!

As they reset their cars, Blau Streifen checked the mods and smiled. “Look what I found.” He spawned a blue SUV that looked exactly like that of his father.

But the moment he accelerated, the engine made a high-pitched whine and exploded in white smoke, having over-torqued. “What the?” He tried again, only to get the same result. Again, the engine exploded upon acceleration. A third time, the same result.

“What the hay?!” He exclaimed in disbelief.

“I guess this mod is glitch, sorry brother.” His sister suspected.

“Ah, was fun nonetheless!” He saw it calmly”.

Just then, Fletcher, Blue, Tybalt and Shadow came in. “How are you today, Dinky?” he smiled.

“Much better, I barely feel anything now.”

“That’s good. We got a new ally.” He replied, telling him what had happened.

“Oh my…I hope Cooper is alright.” Worry was in her voice, only to receive a gentle hug from the stallion.

“I am sure they treat him well.”

“And if you barely feel any pain now, you can leave, provided you keep it easy at first.” Anna told as she checked them.

“Of course. Is there any way we can help you?” The filly asked, “I don’t like sitting around, unable to do anything.”

James put a hand to his chin. “Hmm, there might be some…”

“No way.” Blue interrupted with a stern tone.

“But mom-“ Her son looked at his mother with confusion.

“I already lost your father, sweetie, I don’t want to lose you too.” She stated with clear worry in her voice, only for the officer to clear his throat.

“I wanted to say, not on the front, obviously, but behind the front, safe from harm, doing errands, hauling items and such.”

There was a moment of silence as the female unicorn considered it, gazing around. “My son’s safety and of his friends will be guaranteed?”

“Of course, I thought already ahead to have some men assigned, plus some light body armor, better safe than sorry. Besides, I would have to organize things first.” James calmly explained and the mother nodded. “Until then, I already thought of a way you could help, children.”

“And how?” Katja asked curiously.

“Well, there is an Archaeologist that requested Rico’s help, maybe you can help there as well.”

“Sounds like fun,” Dinky smiled.

“But,” Fletcher mumbled, “This Sheldon mentioned a Stingray base, do you know anything about it, James?” The Knight sounded suspicious.

“Yes. It belonged to the eDEN Corporation, a company from the 1980s, doing advanced scientific research. They went bankrupt decades ago. The Stingray was an offshore research station, one of the major facilities in the network of Eden. its purpose was to research the possibility of controlling lightning.” Now, the German started to gesture wildly.

“But in 1993, something went haywire – they ended up creating a massive electrical storm, swallowed them whole. And in 2015, poof! Turns back up after the last big storm. The Black Hand tried to salvage what was still intact, my guess it was to reverse-engineer it for Illapa.”

“That could mean...” Blue started to connect the dots, "This tech is still faulty and it went haywire, somehow creating a storm that reached Equestria and sucked the children in.”

“This is my assumption as well but this is why this project must be stopped. There is no saying what danger it could create.” The commander replied.

Everyone nodded in response, allowing James to continue. “But for now, let me handle the planning, kids. Kyle and Romanov will keep you safe.” Both men gave a smile and nod in response.

“Be careful, son.” Tungsten’s mother hugged him as he got up, returning it, Dinky and the siblings did the same with Fletcher.

They entered two Kübelwagen, respectively, followed by a truck, as they were told about where they were going. “The man we help is called Javi Huerta, he wants to discover facts about the Otorongo-era, the ruler of Soils in the mid-16th century. According to official sources, he was executed for his many crimes, but Javi thinks there is more to the story.”

It was only a short drive, turning into a country road, into the woods, coming to a stop at what looked like a big hole in the ground. Several AOC soldiers were patrolling around, with, a man in a white shirt, brown hair and glasses was looking down the hole.

“Kids, you’re okay!” One rebel exclaimed, with the children recognizing him instantly.

“Miguel!” They ran into him for a hug, with him smiling.

“Glad to see you too.” Then he turned towards Kyle. “So you’re our help?” He asked in English, getting a nod. “Never thought I would see mercs helping us.”

“In any case,” the civilian spoke up as he turned around “I am glad for any help. Javi Huerta.” His expression was neutral, his brown eyes calm as well with a mustache.

“Down here,” He pointed at the hole, “is the tomb of Otorongo's sister, she was a wise, deeply thoughtful person, skilled with the uses of local herbs.”

“Otorongo made her tomb hard enough to find.” Kyle commented.

“In honor of her passion of nature, she was entombed within one of Solís' natural wonders." The Archaeologist replied.

“And how are we supposed to het down there?” Katja asked.

“With this.” A female voice spoke up and they saw a thin-figured woman with light skin, amber eyes and platinum-blonde hair carrying a crate out of the back of the truck.

“A zip line, good thinking, Nyra!” She got praised by Kyle, who blushed slightly.

As she and Romanov build it up, Dinky could not help but wonder something. “Why do you do this, Kyle? Working as a merc?”

In response, he sighed. “Its…complicated. Actually, passion is my art, which I do in my spare time, James even encouraged it, selling a few to make some extra money, being very favored by many. While I just joined to have a living and safety from Ed, James said as a friend of my father, it was the least he could do, ensuring my safety.” He lowered his head, “At the same time though, he feels like a surrogate father to me, trying to keep him safe.”

“Okay, its’s ready, I go first.” Romanov tore them out and hooked in, sliding down.

“Don’t worry, he will catch you.” Kyle assured Dinky s she looked down nervously, the harness strapped on. Then she jumped, not able to help but let out a cry of joy of racing down.

As expected, the Russian caught her, then waved for the next one. The siblings went next, first Katja, then Blau. Due to his fear of heights, Tungsten took a deep breath, trying to calm down as it was his turn. While the speed was somewhat uncomfortable, he also cheered slightly at it before reaching the end.

Kyle and his comrade followed next with the others.

“So, how do we find and open this tomb?” Blau asked Javi as they looked around, several pillars were scattered throughout the grass.

“We need to pull an ancient lever, with the use of a retractor motor. Good you guys thought ahead.” He pointed to a harpoon gun Romanov was carrying on his back.

Looking carefully around, the group entered some ruins, coming to a double stair case. Between them was a large wooden lever. “That’s it.” Huerta announced and the former Russian soldier took aim, firing at it, then the ground.

Eyes becoming wide in surprise, the children watched as the harpoon was reeling in and switched the lever, there was a mechanical cranking sound, a flap opened and a huge ball made out of solid stone with a rough face carved onto the surface fall out of it.

Quickly stepping aside, the group watched as the ball rolled downwards the center of the cave, destroying a few pillars on the way. Eventually, it stopped, on a small rounded platform, pressing it down with a click.

A door opened near above the flap where the ball had fallen out, with the Archaeologist approaching eagerly. “Time to learn what Otorongo's sister has to tell us.” He lit up a candle inside, showing an ancient text in Spanish. “The forest mountains breaking. Hmm. Curious. Very curious.”

“That was simpler than I thought, but still fun!” The little unicorn exclaimed, “I can see why Patch, Dawnwind and Wagensroll enjoy this. Think we could ask them to let us join?”

“Remind me when we get home again,” Tungsten replied, “Speaking of, how are we supposed to get up again?”

“That’s easy, the zip line has a retractor motor too.” Romanov told them and again, was the first to take it.

He helped the kids and others, Miguel smiled at the kids. I hope you found what you were looking for.

“We did,” answered Tungsten with a happy smile, before his ears twitched at an odd sound. “Hmm? Looking around, he could see nothing, at first, but could swear he saw an area of distorted light.

Suddenly, it disappeared and out of the corner of his eyes, saw a figure. They went small.

He screamed and fell on his back, crawling backwards. A Black Hand Ghost was standing in front of him.

“Ambush!” Nyra yelled as they heard his scream but before they could react, a white cylinder was thrown by one enemy.

It exploded in a white flash. “My eyes!” Tungsten held his eyes, his ears ringed, everything was white, he stumbled, the others did too.

In the moment his vision returned and the ringing stopped, Tungsten felt his heart jump. The Black Hand was holding their protectors at gunpoint, thrown to the ground, His friends as well, who started at the soldiers with fear and so did he as he noticed the gun in front of his eyes.

“W-wait…You don’t have to do this…” The colt tried to reason with a stuttering voice, not wanting to die.

“Sorry, kid, I got my orders.” The merc replied with a slight hint of pity and Tungsten closed his eyes, waiting for the end.

His ears twitched at a….growing sound?

Slowly opening his eyes, he saw a black flash and the soldier looking after it in surprise. What the?!” His gun was gone, the other Black Hand members started as well.

Schaeffer used this to draw his sidearm, shooting his captor in the chest, Miguel, Romanov and Nyra did as well.

While still in shock, the kids wasted no time to go behind cover as the firefight broke out, bullets whizzing past them as they pressed themselves against their cover.

Daring to peak over the wall, The Trottingham colt saw around 20 enemies, not thinking he would survive this.

A loud bang made their ears ring, followed by others in quick succession. Before Tungsten could register what was going on, a member of the Harmonious Guard stood protectively before him. The ponyfication device was activated, so it looked like a mare in camouflaged uniform, a cape on the back, wearing a hood and Ski goggles. She had a scoped Gewehr 43 in her hooves, aiming at some troopers that just arrived and aimed at her.

"You can still run!" She yelled as a under barrel-mounted laser/strobe device on her rifle lighted up and blended them before the mare fired at them with quick shoots from her rifle and sidearm. Somehow, her voice was familiar to him, having a Trottingham accent. Quick as lightning, he realized who this human represented.

Some hostiles took cover behind a wall to avoid her fire, only for a voice to yell, “Say hello to my little friend!” It was an Asian accent and the kids turned to the side. A stallion, wearing light body armor, fired a under-barrel grenade launcher, blasting them away.

“Better keep your head down, kids!” Another male voice warned them. As they blinked, another stallion came into their view, carrying an MG42 with a shield he deployed in front of them, the ammo belt connected to a backpack. He threw also what seemed to be a briefcase, transforming into a turret midair before landing on the ground, ready to fire.

Instinctively, they covered their ears from the loud gunfire.

None of them could tell how long it lasted before it stopped, seeing briefly 2 more stallions firing MP40s.

“We…did not expect you to show up, Occulus Accipiter.” Kyle mumbled surprised as the mare gave him a pat on the shoulder.

“That’s the point, Captain. We were on standby if you needed assistance. You did well. Now, squad, form up!” She ordered.

Only now, the kids noticed how the fight had ended, the Black Hand having apparently retreated, with a few bodies littered around.

Among the squad, they only saw one stallion was carrying a radio on his back, the other one had a field cap, instead of a helmet but they had their back to them, making their appearance impossible to tell as they moved out.

Blue’s son still tried to process things before he got poked from behind. Turning around, he saw a black wolf looking at him, carrying a rifle in his mouth before spitting it out.

“Hey, are you not?” Dinky asked as she realized, just before the wolf liked her face, causing her to giggle.

Tungsten and the siblings noticed a scab on the wolf’s leg, making them also realize who this was.

“I guess he likes you very much?” Kyle commented confused and the filly raised a hoof.

“Well, we helped him when he got stuck in a bear trap shortly after we landed here.”

“I see. I am no expert but I heard once wolves can be really loyal. I guess he wanted to pay you back for helping him.”

“In any case,” Javi spoke up, “Thanks for the help. But next time, we got to be careful, with the Black Hand trying us from finding out the truth.”

They just nodded, going back to the cars, yet the kids noticed the wolf following them. “You want to stay with us?” Dinky asked surprised, getting a happy bark in response. “Ah, I used to have a cat, guess adopting a wolf won’t be so much different. Do you mind?” She asked her friends, they shook their heads.

“Ah, it’s your choice, not mine.” Their bodyguard stated and Dinky tried to think of a name.

“How about…Bound? Given how you seemed to have bounded with us?” The wolf gave another happy bark as answer. “I take that for a yes.” A smile formed on her lips.

Once getting into the vehicles, Bound jumped into the back of the truck to join the journey back to the forward base.

Upon arrival, they were happy to see the adults in a break room. “I hope you had fun.” Fletcher smiled, only to get a weak smile from Dinky.

“We had but somehow, the Black Hand managed to surprise us.”

“What?” Blue’s eyes went wide, turning towards James. “But you told us they would be safe!”

He stayed calm, as he raised a hand. “You think I did not think this far ahead? I sent out a specialist squad, Occulus Accipiter to step in if there would be trouble. Trust me, they can adapt to any situation, direct frontline combat, sabotage, recon, just to call a few. Also, preparations are almost complete. If you excuse me.”

With that, he walked out of the room, but the little unicorn noticed a picture falling out of his pocket. “Wait, you dropped something!” She picked it up and ran after him, the others followed.

James turned surprised around in the hallway before smiling weakly. “Ah, thanks.” As he took it, the ponies noticed he put it hastily back, almost protectively.

“Does it mean a lot to you?” Tungsten concluded.

“Kyle, can you leave us alone?” The officer asked, with his soldier nodded, his comrades gave them some privacy as well.

The ponies got led into an office and a heavy sigh escaped James. “You see, my contract here is not only business but…personal too.” His head was lowered as he showed them the pic. It showed him and a woman with brown hair and green eyes smiling, the eyes of the children went wide as they recognized her.

“My wife went missing around a week before I got the contract, having been anonymously informed she might be in Solis. Of course, I investigated but could not find any traces. And yet, it’s the best lead I have. I know her, she would not run, she must have been kidnapped by someone.” Now, worry was in his voice.

“Does Kyle know?” Dinky asked, causing him to sigh again.

“No, neither does his mother know of his employment by me. As silly as it sounds, I just don’t know how to tell them, despite my regular meetings with them respectively.”

They stared at him, unable to say a word, able to understand him and yet….none knew what to say.

“I know this is hard,” Dinky broke the silence, “But I think the best you can do is meet them in a calm moment.” She suggested, getting a weak smile in response.

“I sure hope so…”

Woof!

Starting, everyone turned around to see the black wolf, happily waving his tail as he looked at them “Ah, hello there, who are you?” James asked Intrigued, only for the kids to step forward.

“That’s…Bound. A wolf we helped in distress when we first got to Soils and…he followed us around ever since.” Tungsten explained, slightly blushing.

“I see, quite loyal and grateful, aren’t you?” Bound let out a happy bark in response.

“So…can we keep him, Fletch?” Dinky asked her uncle, who looked at Blue and her fellow comrades.

“I see no problem but would have to see about your parents. Got any objections, Blue?”

“Nah, if he followed them already here, why separate him then?” She asked in return.

“Okay then, preparations are almost complete, if you would come with me.” James gestured to a door leading to an armory.

On a table were some MP40s with blue colored barrels and magazines, along with dark blue body armor. “Its the same armor our Hubris troops use and the SMGs are nonlethal. I thought, as the MP40 has a low rate of fire and thus easy to control. It would most fitting for you.”

“And those?” Tybalt pointed to a small wrist device with a hook on another table.

“Oh, that? Ava took some inspiration from Rico’s grapple hook, thought it could come in handy for you. She even made a version for the kids.” On a third table, there were the same devices but with a suction cup instead.

The kids put them on their wrists, with Dinky mumbling, “Not sure if I need it but could come in handy.”

Tybalt took his and aimed around, causing Shadow to raise a hoof, “Be careful with that thing, that ain’t a toy!”

“Don’t worry, I know how to handle a grabbling hook.” The earth pony assured with a confident grin.

“Now,” James fixed his attention to Fletcher and Blue, pointing at a map on the wall, showing a massive industrial port, the middle of the facility had a large, military-style reinforced concrete building, with 6 guard towers around it. “This is Prospero Astillero, an automated shipyard. In order to take it, we got to destroy the backup system at the command tower.”

Just then, there was a swoosh and clang. It caused him and the ponies to look at it without flinching. A hook had landed on the map.

They just started at Tybalt and Shadowplay, who had both fearful expressions, the former holding the fired hook, with the batpony pointing at him.

Their younger friends started at everything in shock, Bound just rolled his eyes if it disappointed.

“Anyway,” James continued on, “Occulus Accipiter already gathered more Intel and are waiting for you. I must coordinate operations elsewhere.”

Nodding, his allies went back to the vehicles and drove towards their destination, being in the north-easternmost part of Solís, coming across a few civilian vehicles but mostly military vehicles of their allies.

It was near a swamp area where they got out, seeing the base in the middle, with a soldier hidden between the trees. He was wearing a cap with radio headset and backpack, an MP40 in one hand. His hazel eyes fell on them with a slight smile as he reported, “They arrived, sir. Yes, sir.” His voice had British accent, putting his radio aside to greet them. “I am Clive Morrison, follow me.” His build was slim, nothing special, his yellow hair mostly hidden by his cap. They did as told, and yet again…an odd feeling of similarity chilled through the portly mare.

They got led to a squad of soldiers overlooking the facility on a small hill. One of them, a woman with curly, auburn, shoulder-length hair under a hood and dark blue eyes hidden behind ski goggles, waved at them.

“Sargent Moira Morrison, at your service.”

“The pleasure is all ours, how shall we proceed?” Fletcher asked and one of Moira’s men, carrying an MG-42 with an ammo belt connected to a backpack, his build slightly muscular, his pale brown eyes focused on the base as he pointed to some massive concrete guard towers.

“In order to disable the backup system, we have to enter a code into consoles at each guard tower,” He had a new-Zealand accent, “but the system circles quickly, so we have not much time. It allows me to activate the doors at the outlying power stations.”

“Corporal Crispin Vandervelt, our support gunner and engineer. I suggest you split into groups to gather more ground, “The woman suggested, with the MG gunner giving a nod to the kids, them now noticing his untidy black hair under the helmet and a beard. “He, Choi and Zebediah will escort, you, children.”

Zebediah nodded, he was wearing a ballistic vest, hiding his build well, together with a grenade satchel and stored grenades. He seemed to be very young, in his early 20s, dyed straw-brown hair tied into a ponytail and piercing forest-green eyes. Choi, on the other hand, opted for a field cap but his appearance slightly uneased the children.

Similar to Shadowplay, he wore an eyepatch and cloth over his left eye, leaving only his other brown eye open but long, silky, white hair, as if he was very old, despite looking not much older than Zebediah.

“I provide Overwatch from here.” Moira took aim before everyone nodded, making a quick plan.

“The kids should take the 2 closest towers, we take the middle, Tybalt and Shadow the furthest. Blue suggested, getting another nod.

Carefully sliding down, they split up going right and left respectively. Kyle and Romanov, together with Choi and Zebediah covered Dinky and Tungsten, while Crispin covered the siblings with Nyra.

Almost immediately, the base was alerted and its garrison moved to intercept the intruders.

Kyle and his comrades suppressed the Black hand soldiers, consisting mainly of privates, who seemed to hesitate at the sight of the children.

They also fired a few shots to suppress them. While having no experience like Dinky, Tungsten oddly had little trouble firing his weapon. Was it something he had inherited from his mother? And despite being nervous and slightly shaking, the unicorn and their human allies have him a feeling of safety, with the former giving him a pat on the shoulder with a weak smile.

Bound also tried to cover them by jumping at enemies to throw them to the ground or forcing them into cover by grabbing their guns with his mouth as he zipped past them, having little trouble avoiding their fire.

Every now and then, the grenadier fired some smoke grenades for cover, allowing them to close in on the tower quickly. A sniper was on it but before he could get aim at them Choi threw a knife, it landed in his chest. With a scream, the sniper fell down the tower.

To their dismay, the entrances were closed, but the little filly was quick to think. Aiming at the ledge, Dinky fired her grapple hook, pulling herself up and grabbing the ledge, her friend did the same and she punched in the code before ducking behind the pillars for cover.

“Code is in, system has started.” Kyle reported in.

Katja and Blau made quick progress as well, being covered by their helpers, the MG gunner having little trouble keeping up despite his gear, smirking slightly as he looked at them. “Don’t you worry, I won’t run dry so fast.” He grappled a small round object from his back and threw it into the air. Rotors unfolded from it, revealing to be a small drone that also provided suppressing fire.

At the tower, the siblings used their hooks to get up, with Katja using the console before heading to cover.

Fletcher and Blue used their Assault rifle and SMG, scavenging ammo from any enemy they neutralized, with Moir covering them from afar. “Engaging-“

A female voice rang from behind a container before they heard a clang and blood splattering. A female private got thrown against it, before falling over lifeless. Another kill by the British sniper.

Blue reached her tower first and grappled up and hit the console, then proceeded to cover Fletcher from her position, firing on every enemy in her sight with her sniper rifle. Just as Fletcher reached his tower, a gunship was hovering behind him, taking aim. Reacting quickly, she fired at the rotor. Sparking, then exploding, the chopper crashed in a small explosion.

Fletcher briefly turned around and nodded, with her adding,” Don't you worry, Fletcher. I'm always watching your back -- and your front!”

Just then, the stallion used his console before firing an arrow her way. “What the?!” Flinching as the arrow missed her by inches, her ears twitched at a body hitting the ground, turning around to see a Ghost having tried to sneak up on her, an arrow in his head as he hit the ground.

“I suppose you didn't saw that one coming. Good thing I did, eh?” He commented and she gave a short, acknowledging wave in response.

Shadowplay flew towards his target, easily avoiding the ground fire. Just as he had almost reached it, he heard a wiring sound and out of the corner of his eyes, noticed a red laser pointer on his chest.

Quickly barrel-rolling to the left to throw the sniper off, he tracked it and found it. The sniper was on a transport chopper hovering over the tower. Flying past it, taking aim, the batpony fired his MP40 sideways and hitting the sniper, making him fall out and the chopper retreated.

This allowed him to land and put the code in.

Tybalt easily sped past any defenders while firing his revolvers, reaching his objective within seconds, climbing up with his hook and activating the console. “Code is in, what now?” He asked into the radio.

“Doors are activated, you need to disable the power stations but the only way in are the waterways, only a certain type of boat can pass, Black Hand security.” Vandervelt explained.

Checking their HUDs, the 4 adult ponies saw the bunkers at the east and west of the base marked, with a the name and model of the required boat briefly appearing on the display as well.

The east gate needed what was called a Stormwater Patrol Boat, an open rear deck with its cabin towards the front of the boat, a mounted turret on the front and a remote gun in the back.

Just then, Blue spotted one in the water near her and teleported to the deck, opening the door. “Excuse me.” Before the driver could react, she grabbed him and threw him overboard, taking the controls. Fletcher teleported to it as well to take the mounted turret.

He fired on other boats as well as small row of naval mines in front of the bunker the mare was steering to, opening the way. It opened with a accepting beep, revealing a small dock containing some shipping containers and a computer, guarded by 2 privates and a riot shield, an alarm was blaring.

Fletcher used the mounted gun to dispatch the former, then fired a charged shot from his bow to go through the shield before the soldier could react.

“Disable the console and the backup system will kick in.” They got advised by the engineer and Fray jumped out, shutting the computer down. As he turned around, a whirling sound greeted his ears and he looked back.

His eyes went small as a small machine gun turret on the wall above the computer. But before it could fire, Ifrit fired a small blast at it and destroyed, it vanishing with a nod.

Shadowplay saw on his display that a Daggershark Jetboat was needed for the other bunker, a high-speed military patrol boat, armed with heavy machine gun turret on the back end, its design quite aerodynamic.

He spotted one in the water close by and flew towards it, avoiding its fire and dove towards the roof hatch. Its driver had no time to react as the stallion opened it and threw him out.

As he drove past Tybalt , the former bandit used his grappling device to get on board, taking the gunner position to open the way. The west bunker had the same layout and defense, the earth pony neutralized the privates quickly.

Shadowplay quickly used his magic to teleport behind the shield and stabbed the soldier into the back, then shut down the computer. The moment the turret activated, Tybalt destroyed it with the boat’s MG.

“Back up generator online, destroy it and the shipyard is useless for the enemy.” Crispin advised.

Notching they were the closest to the generator, Dinky and Tungsten grappled to a wall that lead to a staircase at the command tower, their guardians close behind. The kids saw how Zebediah briefly dual-wielded a revolver and C96, doing some gunslinger tricks occasionally.

They cleared the area ahead, a small backyard with a turbine built into the wall, the backup generator as their HUD confirmed.

Tungsten fired his hook to pull the ceasing back, exposing its inner parts and his unicorn friend fired a non-lethal spell at it. It started to smoke and whined before shutting down.

“Great work, I’ll inform the general, so we can secure it.” Clive praised them and reported back to HQ but the…. “What? Yes, sir, acknowledged. Sink those boats marked on your HUD!” He yelled, much to their surprise.

Following the marker to a helipad around the corner, the group saw 2 Stormwater Patrol Boats about to depart from a dock into the open water.

Fletcher and Blue joined via teleport as they got told why by the radioman. “The factory’s General and his commandante are fleeing with prototype weapons!”

Understanding the danger, both snipers took aim. Blue exhaled and fired at a depth charge one of the boats had stored on the back. Her bullet hit the screw that protected the fuse, exposing it.

Fletcher fired his rifle at the fuse. The moment his bullet hit, the charge exploded, engulfing the boat in flames as the rest of ammunition got ignited as well. One small explosion. Then another. And another. It also caught the second boat as it was too close, suffering the same fate before both sunk in a giant explosion.

“It is done, we can send in the troops to secure it.” Fray did a casual brohoof with Blue.

“Acknowledged, I let the general know and the Black Hand are retreating. For now, let’s get out of here.” Moira suggested.

Dinky walked ahead and around the corner, only to freeze in shock.

Before her was a group of privates, equally surprised to see her.

“Get down!” She felt how Shadowplay pushed her out of the way as the privates took aim. Yet none was prepared for what came next.

Zebediah drew his C96, holding it sideways before pulling the trigger. One by one, the enemies fell, his sidearm shifted horizontally from the muzzle jump, quickly neutralizing the group.

Dinky breathed heavily as her friends ran up to her. “Are you hurt?” Tungsten sounded concerned as she slowly checked herself.

“I am okay…I am okay…You, Shadowplay?” Worry was in her voice as he grunted slightly in pain.

“Just a scratch.” He said as he held his right wing, a bullet had grazed him. Blue casted a healing spell on him with a slightly worried expression as well.

“Better get that checked.” He nodded in response and gave the filly a wave to show she hasn’t to thank him.

Blowing the smoke of his pistol, Zebediah reloaded, with the group preparing to leave.

Yet the ponies knew, this was just the start. What was yet to come?

Author's Note

what can i say, i found beamNg a very good game

Chapter 8 Shocking work

Chapter 8: Shocking Work

They made their way out of the base as fast as they could, with allied vehicles arriving quickly to secure the base. The children took notice as Moira and Clive saluted the oncoming friendlies, they saluted with the palms facing outwards, something Dinky and the siblings had also noticed with William and Duffy in Africa and Italy, but never got to ask them.

“Why do you salute like that?” The young filly asked and the female squad leader answered.

“Old habit for me. It’s the style of salute for British forces, which influenced the palm facing down towards the shoulder salute of the Americans.”

“How that?” Blau asked curious.

“Well, it dates back to the days of sailing ships, when tar and pitch were used to seal a ship's timbers from seawater. To protect their hands, officers wore white gloves and it was considered most undignified to present a dirty palm in the salute, so the hand was turned through 90 degrees. A common story is that Queen Victoria, having been saluted by an individual with a dirty palm, decreed that in future, sailors of the fleet would salute palm down, with the palm facing the ground.”

“Interesting.”

After this short and interesting historical fact, they got back into their vehicles to James, who welcomed them with a smile. “Welcome back and great job! Now, Rico has secured the lab, so we can obtain what we need to make some lighting-proof boats. But you should get some rest, you earned it.”

Everyone nodded with the little unicorn having an idea. “Want to join us for a round of Mau-Mau, Tungsten?”

He smiled. “Sure, why not?”

Shadowplay wiped somewhat of his forehead. “Is it just me, or is it kinda humid? I think I’ll take a shower.”

“Suit yourself.” Blue commented before going to the mess hall.

The locker room and shower were empty as the batpony entered, removing his eye patch and cloth, freeing his mane to cover his scars. And yet, upon seeing himself in the mirror, a sigh escaped him. His boss had taught him to see it with pride but the phantom pain still got the better of him at times.

“I can’t imagine what pain you must have gone through.” Tybalt’s voice sounded in his ears, seeing him with a sympathetic smile. “If I may ask, have you ever thought about going for a glass eye or something?” He felt awkward to ask this, yet the scarred pony nodded.

“Actually, yes. Although, with all the years as mercs, I’ve gotten used to it. Maybe one day, who knows…”

The young stallion just gave a nod in reply before both cleaned themselves, enjoying the warm water, letting out a sigh of relief.

Upon finishing, they noticed Kyle in the locker room, mumbling as he had his back to them, “How can I do it…I never had success with girls…”

“Something the matter?” Tybalt asked, startling him slightly as he turned around and chuckled awkwardly.

“Well…I think I got…a crush on Nyla. But all my previous attempts with girls backfired on me, so I am not sure how to do this.” His voice sounded fearful.

Both former mercs looked at each other for a moment before Tybalt took the word. “I may not be the best at this advice, but I would suggest taking it calmly, not rushing it.

“And best not in the middle of combat.” Shadowplay added, getting a weak smile from the human.

“Thanks, I’ll try.”

It reminded the young bandit of something as he and his buddy walked out of the locker room. “You know, it’s funny. I would have never thought to fall for a common mare. I mean, before Candy, I never knew true love.” He said with disbelief.

“You tell me. I would have never thought to become friends with Amber, let alone a father for her daughter. I guess we’ll make something right.” Shadowplay replied in the same tone.

“Hey, after all you went through, I think you deserve a pony as caring as her.” This statement of Tybalt caused the batpony to blush slightly.

“Could this dream mean something?” Fletcher’s voice rang in their ears as they got outside, he sounded conflicted.

Curious and confused, the 2 stallions saw the unicorn walking back and forth in a corner, his expression unsure and…somewhat frightened. “I hope she won’t get the same idea…”

“What’s wrong, Fletch?” Tybalt asked, causing him to turn around, slightly startled as well.

“N-nothing, just a bad dream.” He replied hastily but they were not convinced.

“You’re been acting strange lately, Fletcher.” Shadowplay pointed out. “You can tell us if there is a problem.”

In response, the archer sighed told them what he had dreamed. As he expected, both blushed in awkwardness as they tried to process it before the orange, blue-dappled stallion took the word.

“I’ve known Blue Murder for years, she wouldn’t do that. The loss of her husband took her pretty hard, after this, nopony of us had seen her ever again with a stallion. She states to feel still loyal to Marmalade.” He told in an honest tone.

Fray sighed in relief. “Sorry, its just…that dream I had, actually happened to be not too long ago. You heard about the wedding Blue took part in?”

“Yes, why do you-“ the batpony cut himself off when he realized with his friend, their eyes small, becoming again red like a tomato. “Oh…I see…”

“They….also…gave me something to remember it…” Fletcher added in clear embarrassment, pointing down and his fellow ponies connected the dots. “I still try to get used to it.”

“Ah, better an impressive size than smaller, don’t you think?” Tybalt pointed out with a weak smile, unable to help himself but to check Fletcher out. “Wish I had that…”

“What was that?” Fray and Shadow asked in confusion.

“Nothing,” The bandit hastily replied, “But I think it would be best you talk with her directly.”

“Okay then.”

With that, he checked the mess hall for his fellow unicorn, seeing her drinking some tea on a balcony. “Can I ask tell you something in private?”

“Sure, I just finished my tea anyway.” She followed him to a secluded area of the base. “What it is?”

Fray scratched his back, his eyes darting around as he asked, “You surely noticed my…nervous behavior?”

“Aye, I actually wanted to ask you what’s wrong.” Blue replied in surprise.

“Well…I…” Fletcher stuttered, “Had a dream about you, about something that actually happened to me recently.”

In response, the portly mare raised an eyebrow. “That would be?”

“After Lyra and Abstraction had their wedding and honeymoon, they invited me for dinner one day. But they had something more in mind…” His cheeks started to become red as the memories came back.

It was another day when Fletcher’s mind scrambled to figure out what happened that night after dinner, sitting on the bed in his room. “What’s wrong, Fletch, you seem so tensed since your stay at Lyra and Abstraction.” Midnight walked in with Wolf, both concerned for him.

It’s just…I can’t remember what exactly happened and…that my crotch…was so big…”

“Uh, what?” Midnight asked confused before looking down, blushing with the Pegasus. “That…I cannot answer for you.”

“I tried to ask them but they avoid my questions…”

“That is very suspicious.” Wolf commented, her expression a frown. “But it was a dinner, nothing unusual, even with magic.”

“Ma-mag…” Fletcher stuttered as it triggered a memory in him, his eyes becoming small. “T-hey…used magic on me…to have a….” He lowered his head, trying to process everything, his friends understood it instantly.

“They did WHAT?!” Wolf exclaimed angrily.

“Y-yes…Fray blushed…they thought as a way to…thank me for reuniting them…”

“I see…” Midnight’s expression became dark. “I think a visit is due. Take as long as you need though, Fletch.” They left his room, only for Ifrit to appear.

“So you remembered at last.” his voice was neutral.

“Why didn’t you help me?!” The archer exclaimed in slight anger but the spirit was not fazed.

“I was trying, Fray. You didn't seem to hear me over all the caterwauling. Besides, it is not my business to save you from love-hungry young temptresses, Fray. I would consider such a thing degrading. I shan't be at all happy if you allow such a vulgarity to take place again.”

“You won't be happy?! How do you think I'll feel?!?!” Fray exclaimed in disbelief.

“Again you miss the point. My concern is not so much how you'll feel but what. In any case, save your anger for them.” He advised, making the unicorn realize he had a point, taking a deep breath.

Lyra and Abstraction went after their usual day as they heard a knock on the door. Both opened to reveal three not very happy ponies. “Uhh, yes?” Abstraction asked nervously as the batpony took the word.

“What do you have to say in your defense?” His voice was upset.

“Uhh, we just wanted to show Fletcher a good time for helping me.” The stallion replied with a nervous smile. “And we always wanted to try out a threesome…”

“Still…” Fletcher spoke up, “Did you have to do it that way?”

Now, the married mare took the word with the same nervous expression. “We were just eager to try it and your improvement, just thought a handsome and good stallion like you deserves it. Plus as a reminder, which worked as I see.”

“Okay…just don’t do it again….” Fray replied, neutral, much to their surprise as Wolf growled before stopped by Midnight with a hoof.

“Using hypnosis on a senior officer and having intercourse is a serious offense.” He spoke coldly, making both gulp. “But, considering your fresh marriage and why you wanted to do this…I might look the other way. Just this once.”

A sigh of relief escaped the couple as the knights turned to leave.

“…After I had this dream, I feared you would get the same idea as them…” Fletcher finished, leaving a bewildered mare with beet-red cheeks staring at him.

“Uhh…I can understand your fear, Fletcher…” Blue stuttered in awkwardness, “But I assure you, I would never do that to you. Besides, I even can’t do hypnosis. Sure, its lonely as single mother but there is always the hoof.”

“Thank you. And sorry for the awkward topic.”

She waved a hoof. “No harm done if it helped to ease your mind.” Then his stomach growled. “How about I get you something to eat after this, eh?”

He nodded and they made their way into the mess hall, followed by Tybalt and Shadowplay, their allies giving friendly waves and nods as they passed by.

“Ah, anything in particular you want?” The cook asked, “How about something Asian for you two?” his eyes fell on the earth and batpony, only for the latter to shake his head.

“No thanks, any common meal will do.”

“Suit yourself.” The cook replied and served them some vegetarian dumplings, a Swabia meal. It gave the 2 former mercs a weird feeling that their origins were considered for their meal, hard to believe how culture and vegetarian backgrounds were considered for soldiers these days. But it also gave them some appreciation their backgrounds were considered.

“Hey, were you not supposed to see the medic?” Fletcher asked the orange, blue-dappled batpony, who’s expression became surprised.

“Oh, right, almost forgot.” He reported to the medical section of the base after finishing his meal, his eye wide to see a young woman waiting for him. Anna.

“There you here, please take a seat.” She pointed to an exam table and the stallion got on it, with her carefully examining his wound. “Don’t worry, gentleness is my specialty.” Ana spoke in a calming tone. The bullet had left a grazing wound across 2 bones but was not deep.

“This might sting a bit.” Shadowplay grunted at the slight burning of the disinfectant, before noticing the medic was bandaging it. “Before you ask, this is necessary, to protect it from dirt and further damage, plus to ensure it heals properly. So, no flying either.”

“Fine.” Her patient said in a defeated voice, yet she was keeping a smile.

“Despite what you went through, I think you are still a handsome specimen.”

“Uhh, thanks?” This compliment was unexpecting for Shadowplay, slightly blushing. Amber had also called him handsome once and so had Tybalt’s love Candy, both catching him off guard.

“May I?” She then asked with hope, making him raise his eyebrow instead.

“May what?”

Before he could react, she gave his head a slight pat. “Good boy.”

His blushing only deepened, unable to process this kind of positive look on him as he left. Outside, the others waited for him, with the kids joining, they smiled.

“Now I see why you like this game so much.” Tungsten sounded delighted.

“Hey, there should be no fence here!” A voice yelled in the distance and they saw a platoon of soldiers in the fields, not far from the base, standing in front of a barbed-wire fence. The commanding officer grabbed a map, looking at it in confusion, too far away for the ponies to see his full appearance

“Get the men...uh…Take cover near the base!” The officer ordered in an unsure tone, still studying the map as all his soldiers, apart from his second in command, did so as told. “Isn’t that the intersection?”

“No, it’s here. Full grid off.” His subordinate told him.

“Who’s that?” Dinky asked curiously as Kyle walked up to them with Romanov.

“That’s General Keller. As far as I know, He came from a family with military tradition, but was rejected by the official military. So, by serving in the Harmonious Guard, he thought he uphold his family’s tradition. Keller is a good leader but at times...incompetent, as you see here, failing to read a map.” Their friend explained with awkwardness.

Just then, the other soldiers reached the base and Romanov got an idea, smiling devilishly. “Hey Kyle, you think you can impersonate Maximillian?”

Slightly smiling, he replied, “I don’t know if I-“ But the others encouraged him to give it a try, so he gave in. “Alright.” and cleared his throat.

The ponies wondered what he and the other humans had in mind. “Is there a problem, General Keller?” He called out in a surprisingly good German voice.

“Who said that?! Who broke silence?!” Keller yelled back in frustration, then looked back at his fellow officer, who hid a slight grin, getting the joke and playing along.

“I think it's General Maximilian, Sir. I guess he’s moving between platoons.”

“What seems to be the goddamn holdup, Mr. Keller?” Kyle asked in a strict voice. His comrades now tried to hold back laughter and chuckles.

It infected their guests, also having to hold back laughter and grinning. The kids even saw Ifrit behind them, covering his mouth with a hoof to suppress chuckling. Bound raised an eyebrow, as if understanding what was going on.

"A fence. A barbed wire fence!” Keller yelled back in shock and nervousness, completely taken by surprise.

“Oh that dog just ain't gonna hunt!” Kyle taunted before shushing his comrades down. “Now you cut that fence and get this goddamn platoon on the move!”

“Yes, sir!” The General did as told, cutting the fence.

Just then, James came back, seeing what Keller did in the distance, briefly looking at Kyle with a slight grin before making his way to Keller and got him to the base. “You cut the fence?” He asked sternly and Keller replied with fear in his eyes.

“I was ordered to, by General Maximillian.”

“Maximillian? He told you to do that?” The fearful officer nodded at his superior’s question. “General Maximillian is coordinating defenses far from here.” James told him, leaving his fellow officer in confusion and embarrassment as Keller left.

“Okay, now that this prank’s out of the order, we are to Rico at the Meteolab to obtain what is needed to make a lightning-proof boat, called Ion Coil. Recon has not found any enemy activity in the area but be on your guard. One of our POW facilities had a blackout, some prisoners escaped, they might be around.” Günther then explained to his helpers.

“Okay, I take we may help with getting that Iron Coil and understanding it?” Fray concluded but his creator shook his head.

“Your commitment is appreciated but you can be at ease, I already got someone on this. As this facility conceived much of the weather technology, studying it may help us to fight it better.” The German smiled while saying this and everyone then went on their way.

The base that was the Meteolab had the standard facilities as any other base, but most noticeable were some industrial exhaust vents at the edge, where inflated balloons came out and rose into the air, along with a few towers that had antennas and a set a of giant doors in the middle of the base.

Rico, Sheldon and Mira stood in front of it at a computer. “Is this it?” Rico asked with a confused expression.

“Mm-mm. According to the data you retrieved, the Ion coil in here creates positive steamers, which stimulate electrical storms.” His second in command explained.

“So it makes lighting” Sheldon asked in a confused tone.

In response, the woman made wind gestures to explain. “Eh…no. It creates a positive charge, which draws negative charges to it. So lighting will strike the Ion Coil, and not anything around it.”

“So it ABSORBS lightning.” The former agency member concluded, only for his friend to point at the doors.

“How do we get it out of there?”

“We need to get around the failsafe system. Lightning rods are protecting this area.” Mira pointed at the towers, “Deploy those rods, and the failsafes release the coil.”

“Lightning rods? I thought you said this thing absorbs lightning…” With a faked look of confusion, Sheldon looked at Miro, only for the rebel leader to counter,

“If Mira says it’ll work, It’ll work.”

“I know, I’m just messing with her.”

The three, together with James walked towards a control room, leaving their pony allies alone. Apart from them, soldiers of both factions patrolled around.

Looking up, the group saw that the sky had become dark, so they quickly got under a roof for shelter as it started to rain. Just then, Blue looked around and her eyes went wide in surprise and disbelief.

No way…

She nudged Fletcher and her comrades, then pointed to what she saw. Their eyes went wide as well.

An officer of James’ forces walked into view, unbothered by the rain, wearing a trench coat.

Most noticeable was that he was wearing a gasmask, a deep breathing sound coming from it. They could swear they had seen it before, but could not remember where. Something told them it was this human who was supposed to study the weather technology.

There was a loud bang, startling everyone but the officer as lightning hit one of the normal towers, destroying it in a big explosion.

“Can’t remember the last time I saw such a destructive thunderstorm,” Fletcher commented in awe and slight fear.

There was a faint metallic sound that made the ears of the middle-aged mare twitch and she looked down to see a small round object near them.

Her eyes went small.

“Grenade!” Blue warned and pushed with Fletcher the kids out of the way, Bound, Tybalt and Shadow dove out of the way.

The explosion was deafening. Their ears ringing and vision blurry, they all saw Black Hand Elite soldiers attacking, the defenders standing their ground.

Struggling to get up, Blue saw an enemy approaching her with a knife and she grabbed his arm, fighting for control. Despite using all her strength, the soldier slowly overpowered her, the knife getting close to her throat.

Suddenly, he got thrown to the ground, followed by a scream and blood splattering.

“I’m sure you had him, Blue, but just thought I’d lend a hoof.” Shadowplay weakly smiled as he helped her up, having stabbed her attacker.

They, with Tybalt and Fletcher then drew their weapons to join the defense. Dinky and her friends, on the other hand, went to cover behind sandbags with Bound, knowing this was too dangerous for them as bullets whizzed past them.

Peeking over their cover, they saw how the officer drew a Luger pistol and fired at a group of enemies approaching him. He fired and with every shot, one hostile fell to the ground, dead.

As he ran dry, the officer holstered his sidearm and raised his arm sideways. 2 blades extended from each side of his sleeves, his lenses glowing briefly red.

One enemy tried to attack him with a knife. The unknown officer simply countered by locking blades with his left, pushing it away and slicing the throat with the other. A second enemy got close with a knife but got sliced by the throat instantly.

2 more tried to attack him but as with the first, he locked blades and pushed it away, then kicked his knee to make the soldier drop. He tried in pain before sliced as well. The other, he grabbed by the neck and threw him over to the ground, the stabbed his downed enemy into the throat.

It was terrifying to see for the children but they realized he was an experienced fighter as well.

They startled at another thunder and a bang right above them. Looking up in fear, they saw how the lighting had hit a tower and they screamed as some debris landed on them before they could react. The friends struggled but it was too heavy, trapped.

Despite panicking, they noticed how the officer turned towards them, retracting his blades, then ran over to them. To their surprise, he lifted the debris up without any trouble, allowing them to get up.

“Behind you!” Tungsten warned as a Black Hand officer took aim with a pistol but their savior was unfazed.

The enemy’s shots hit his mask and shoulders, he flinched but had no visible damage whatsoever, his head lowered, breathing clearly audible, the enemy watching in shock. Before he could react, the children’s savior dashed up and sliced his throat as well.

“I cover you, go!” Choi’s voice sounded as he stopped next to them firing his MP40 and they wasted no time to go to another sandbag position. As they reached it, they saw a Ghost charging towards the Asian soldier.

“Watch out!” Dinky yelled but it was too late. Choi turned around and was stabbed into the chest.

He grunted in pain, then…laughed.

It was evil…taunting, causing his attacker to back off in shock and fear, the children stared as well.

His eye had turned red. They…could see fangs among his teeth.

In an almost unconcerned manner, his hands went towards the knife, slowly pulling it out, blood poured out of the wound but he seemed unaffected by this. In a swift motion, he threw the knife towards his opponent, it landed right between the eyes and the enemy stumbled before falling over.

2 more ghosts attacked him but he swiftly blocked their attacks and sliced their throats. They flinched before falling lifeless to the ground.

“Retreat! Fall back!” A voice yelled and every enemy ceased fighting, running away, the kids still tried to process everything before the adult ponies checked on them.

“Are you hurt?” Fray was concerned, yet they shook their heads. James joined as well before being asked by the stallion, “How did they manage to ambush us?”

“Gabriella is a skilled and cunning leader, I assume she concluded our next step after we took the bases needed for our operation” The veteran replied calmly, “But be assured, the safety of your young friends is one of my top priorities.”

Just then, the kids looked at the Choi, he was treating his wound, but they could still not believe what they had seen. “W-what was that?” Blau stuttered in awe and fear, with the human giving a weak smile.

“My blessing…and curse.”

“What do you mean?” Confusion was in Katja’s voice before he sighed.

“Well, it’s a long story. In fact, it’s similar to you, Shadowplay.”

“It is?” His eye went wide.

“Yes. As you already figured from my accent, I am Asian. To be exact, from Vietnam. It may sound hard to believe, but the village I used to live in, was spared from the war, being in a rather isolated spot.” He gave James a nod, who pulled a small medallion out of his pocket. A veil one Fletcher, Dinky and the siblings noticed before he held it close to his soldier and pressed a button.

In the blink of an eye, the group found themselves in front of a village, surrounded by grass and trees, hearing cheerful laugher of children.

“Choi, can you help your father with the rice?” A female voice asked before a young man with brown hair and eyes walked out of one of the buildings. He seemed to be in his late teens or early 20s at first glance as he walked over to a rice field to help his father.

Suddenly, there was a loud, echoing wail. The sound of a jet fighter the observers recognized. Everyone briefly saw the jet in the sky and then…gasped as the blink of an eye, the entire village got sent ablaze in a fiery explosion.

Choi got knocked over, then screamed and rolled around to put out the flames, He succeeded barely, his breathing ragged, Fletcher and Blue covered the eyes of the children as the man had severe burns everywhere, they all winched.

Then, suddenly, a helicopter landed and a group of soldiers stepped out, along with men in black suits and sunglasses, inspecting the bodies, with one checking Choi. “This one is still alive, barely though.”

“It will suffice.” Another said and they loaded Choi into the chopper.

Blinking, the scene switched to what looked like a lab, the injured man strapped to a table and hooked to a heart monitor, his burns bandaged. A scientist injected him with a syringe of unknown liquid.

Choi’s heart rate began to increase rapidly, his body twitched as one of the suited men asked, “Status?”

With a terrifying roar, Choi’s eye snapped open, glowing red and he broke free of his restrains. Some guards tried to stop him but he savagely beat them and bit their necks, like a vampire would.

In horror, the group watched as the madman ravaged through the base, killing guards and scientists alike, before coming to a stop near a window, spotting his reflection.

His expression was one of horror to see his red eye and brown hair having turned white, touching one of his fangs with his hand. “No…what….what have they done…what happened…to me?”

It was there where the group found themselves back in reality, gasping and breathing heavily. “Sorry, I just thought this makes it easier to explain.” James smiled weakly.

“They tried to make some sort of Vampire out of me, but don’t worry, I’m not out for blood, it just gives me higher reflexes and resistance to injuries, as you have seen.” Choi tried to assure the kids he had himself under control. “After I got out of the lab, I lived secluded for years, keeping ‘visitors’ away. Until James was hired by the government to take care of me.”

A sigh escaped him. “I should have died...but I didn't. They revived me with their experiment, working on me like a plaything. Look at what they did to me. I am a freak!” Rage sounded in him for a second, followed by a deep breath, “I can't go back to society and James offered me a place that I can call home. I had nowhere else to go. Vietnam, my old home...the communist regime would just use me as the CIA did. Like him, I seem not to age. And ever since, due to my condition, I am one of his closest men.”

“Yes, I quickly realized he would just suffer under my employers as he did under the CIA. Vietnam, Cuba, Iraq, all embarrassing failures of the USA.” He admitted, briefly looking down. “Anyway, with the Ion Coil obtained, all we need now is to get it to Prospero Astillero. I have ordered to load a truck with spare parts of the Ion Coil to modify more boats. Since we can expect the Black Hand to intercept or ambush us, I want you to escort it. And before I forget, Marchand made a reinforced hat for you, Tybalt.” As he said this, the woman walked up to them, holding a hat identical to his, but the inside was reinforced.

“If you insist.” The stallion said flatly before switching it and got into the back of the truck with the other ponies, Jens and Leo, joined, together with Clive. Kyle followed in an armored Kübelwagen, Crispin was its gunner.

The kids, on the other hand, got into 2 UAZ-469, with the French woman and Miguel taking the wheel respectively. James joined his fellow officer in the passenger seat, with Dinky and Tungsten having the back seats.

It was uneventful as the convoy moved out, no enemy in sight, but the escort stayed vigilant.

Suddenly, a roar sounded for the kids and they looked back. A Black Hand Elite on a bike was driving down a small hill, positioning himself between the truck and escort car.

Crispin quickly aimed and opened fire. “Watch out!” Blue yelled as she and the others covered themselves from the bullets that barely missed them, forcing the gunner to cease fire.

But this allowed their enemy to get close and jumped onto the cover of the truck, opening the passenger door. Fletcher, Blue, Shadow and Fletcher struggled to keep their balance as the driver fought with the intruder, the truck swerving left and right.

They got suddenly thrown over as the truck braked abruptly, causing the armed car to rear-end the truck.

Before they had any chance to recover, their ride accelerated quickly again. Tybalt lost his balance, screaming as he fell out of the truck and headfirst into Kyle’s windshield, smashing it. Watching with worry, Tybalt’s friends saw how Nyra carefully lifted the stallion into the backseat with a thumb up, showing he was okay, just dazed.

Then another scream and they saw the driver of the truck rolling past them, having been thrown out.

“He’s going to ram us!” Katja warned in fear as the transport accelerated again, pushing the rear of their SUV. Miguel slightly lost control but recovered quickly, managing to stay in front.

Kyle then tried to pull along the right side of the truck, so his gunner could open fire but the enemy reacted quickly. He rammed into the troop carrier, knocking it off course into a forest. “Damn it!” The young man cursed as he fought to get back into the road.

“Looks like it’s up to us now!” Blue looked at the others, they nodded. Jens and Leo climbed to the left side, Fletcher and Clive to the right side of the truck.

However, their cargo transport swerved left and right again, they struggled not to fall off. Leo and Jens had the bad luck of hitting a large bush, getting knocked off the roof and rolling off the road.

Clinging tightly so as not to suffer the same fate as their companions, Fletcher and Clive clung tightly to the cover of the truck, with the stallion’s hind hoof slipped but managed to regain his balance. To his bad luck, the truck drove through a tree, his horn getting caught between the branches, throwing him off. Morrison held on but fell as the cape of the awning ripped, unable to resist his weight any longer.

Shadowplay used this to climb through the gap, reaching the cabin with ease, clinging to the outside of the door, he drew his sidearm and shot the hostile in the arm. His enemy cried in pain and kicked the door in response.

Dinky saw fear in Tungsten's eyes as both watched Shadowplay clinging desperately to the door, risking also being pulled under the tires of the vehicle as his hind legs got dragged along the ground. As he suffered beating his hindleg against a small ravine, however, the door gave way and broke off, taking the batpony with it, grunting in pain as he rolled onto the street, the female unicorn glancing after him in shock and dismay.

“Bugger it!” She cursed and climbed over the roof, crawling across the roof to the cabin. Reaching it, the mare swung into the cabin, the Elite drawing a pistol and she grabbed it, fighting for control. “I’ve got a complaint about your driving!” Blue yelled as she managed to turn his pistol against him. Firing one shot through the head, blood splattered from it, killing him instantly.

Blue then unceremoniously kicked him out of the truck, taking the wheel, just in time as her son shouted, “Curve ahead, watch out, mom!”

Her eyes went wide to see the curve was at a cliff. “Oh, curd!” In a fit of slight panic, she slammed down on the brakes, with the vehicle coming to a stop just inches away. Letting out a breath of relief, falling into the seat, the portly mare mumbled. “Too close…”

Then she reversed and got back onto the road, joining up with the others, seeing in the mirror how Kyle was catching up, with another truck behind his car, probably having picked up the others.

It was not too long until the convoy reached the gates of Prospero Astillero, guarded by some soldiers, as well as a Tiger tank and a different model in AOC colors the ponies did not recognize.

2 Black Hand APCs gave chase to another in AOC colors but got destroyed by the two tanks, the wrecks flipping from the explosion, with the infantry who managed to jump out, being swiftly taken out by the defending infantry.

Blue looked with worry as Shadowplay climbed with Fletcher and the others out of the second truck, also checking on Tybalt with the kids. “Are you okay?”

“Uncle, are you alright?” Dinky asked with concern but the green stallion nodded. “Just a few brushes.” His batpony comrade nodded as well.

“Just a minor headache.” Tybalt started to calm his fellows down.

They then watched how Rico and Sheldon climbed out of the APC, with the former’s army and James’ engineers getting to work as they unloaded the coil and spare parts from the APC and truck respectively.

It was quite a surprise to see that the engineers mounted the Ion Coil on the back of an Army of Chaos Stormwater Patrol Boat within 15 minutes, with a few more boats outfitted the same through the spare parts.

“You and Mira got quite and operation going here.” Tom commented impressed as he and Rico watched too, having a drink together.

“They just want things to change here.” His friend replied with a slight smile.

“How’s it feel, having it army?” Rico’s friend was curious, with Rico hesitating for a second.

“It’s growing on me.”

Tom then mentioned, “Seems like it, well…I always thought leadership suited you, kid. Mira and I got it all under control about the weapons. We’ll, uh, have her…SHIP shape for you in no time.” He joked, getting chuckles from everyone before asking how to name the boat.

“Your call, Sheldon.” Rico stated before walking away but his friend had an idea right away.

“How about…Thunderbarge?” The Texan announced dramatically, received a thumb up by Rico.

Author's Note

got held up with life but there is the next one

Chapter 9 Into the storm

Chapter 9: Into the storm

After all this, the ponies spent their time relaxing to be ready for the next big step, playing a round of Mau Mau each. Around half an hour, the kids had finished a round, with Tungsten seeing Moira passing by, lost in thought.

“Are you okay?” He asked, tearing her out.

“Ah, just thought about home.” she smiled weakly.” Got a son you know.”

“Do you miss him?” It felt so stupid to ask her this, yet she nodded. “More than anything, he’s everything to me, ever since I was in the SAS…Funny how life can turn out to be.”

“What do you mean?” Dinky was confused and the sniper sat down on a chair.

Why do you think I took Blue as my appearance base?” Moira asked the ponies, I was an orphan like you.” The portly mare just nodded and they started to listen to the soldier’s tale. “I grew up in an abusive orphanage…”

Moira dreaded to get up from her bed as she heard what sounded like a plate crashing on the floor, followed by yelling. “You stupid brat! Can’t you get anything right!?” Then the sound of beating followed by young screams.

She flinched, yet did not hesitate to check on her fellow orphan, he was lying on the ground, sobbing and bruised. “It's okay, it's okay.” The young girl tried to comfort him, getting a first aid kit she had hidden in her room to take care of the bruises.

“Th-thanks…” The boy hugged her in return.

As he slowly calmed down and cleared up the mess, she started at the same angry voice coming from behind. “Working together with the brat I see!” Not on my watch!”

“W-wait!” She pleaded but it didn’t help as he slapped her across the face, causing her cheek to bleed.

“Let that be a lesson to you! No dinner tonight!”

Tears of pain and frustration left her eyes, going back to her room to treat her wound. “I can’t take it anymore…I need to run…” She buried her face into her hands.

When night came, she packed some supplies into a backpack, opened the window and got out, not looking back, wandering through the streets.

Losing count, the young girl could not tell how much time had passed before it started to rain, and she sought center in an abandoned, ruined building she spotted nearby.

Feeling her emotions swell up, a tear left her eyes as she huddled under the roof. “I was so stupid…Baily will kill me for this…

“Hello?” A voice called out, startling her. “Someone there?” It sounded friendly, worried.

Before she could react, a man came into view, casual clothing with an umbrella, an expression of surprise of his face, before it changed to a weak smile. “Are you lost?”

“Y-yes…” She stuttered from the cold.

“Then, let me help you.” He offered a hand. She knew she should not trust a stranger but something told her he was honest.

Her helper took her to a house and made her some tea to warm her up, appreciating it.

She then got a good look at her savior and could not believe her eyes when she recognized him. Jessie “James” Günther, the very leader of the Harmonious Guard himself. “You look hungry too, let me make you something.” He said with a smile, she could only nod.

The mean he prepared tasted way better than Moira could have imagined under Baily, enjoying every bite, happy to have something good in her stomach.

“Now, get some rest, we can find your family tomorrow.” He said, only for her to sob.

“I…don’t have one and I can’t go back….” Her head was lowered, only for him to hug her. “Baily beats us and barely feeds us…”

As the girl buried her head into him, he gently rubbed her back. “Shh, calm down, I will take of this, don’t worry. Now, get some sleep, you need it.”

Moira sobbed again she carried her to the guest room, yet fell asleep fast at the comfort of the bed.

The next morning, she breakfasted, feeling somewhat happy to have met him as he came into the room to check on her. “I hope it was to your liking. Let’s go confronting Baily now, shall we?” He had a confident smile and somewhat told her he was honest.

And so, she got into his car, driving towards the orphanage, soon joined by another one. She could not help but steel herself as they arrived, with him knocking on the door.

Baily opened with a forced smile. “Yes?”

“Hello, I think you missed one of your residents?” Günther asked friendly and he nodded.

“Ah, thank you, it’s always troublesome with the paperwork if they go missing.” Her caretaker gestured her to come inside and she did so, feeling sure James had a plan.

Baily watched until James seemed far away, then slapped her across the face. “Thought of running away, brat?! Now you’ve done it!”

While crying in pain, Moira managed to stay brave. “This is the end for you, Baily.” She spit him in the face, only for him to slam against the wall, choking her.

“What did you say?!”

Despite struggling to breath, she managed to say, “You heard me right…”

Just then, the door got kicked open, surprising him and he let go of Moira, who coughed.

“That’s right, you are under arrest for child abuse.” As the girl’s vision became clear again, she saw James and 2 of his soldiers holding Bailey at gunpoint. He attempted to run but James quickly tackled him to the ground, cuffing him. “We got everything on tape.” Only now, she noticed a camera in the car that had followed them.

“Thanks to him, Bailey got exposed and arrested, with me getting eventually adopted. I felt inspired by him, so when I came of age, I joined the SAS, becoming the best of my class.” Morrison told with pride in her voice, leaving the ponies speechless.

“Then…how come you joined him?” Dinky managed to ask with dread, as the Brite’s expression became slightly sad again.

“One of my comrades betrayed me…”

It was another mission, nothing special for the now grown woman, reading for herself for it as her squad reported to her, 3 men “What is our objective for this mission, Jasper?” She asked one of them with a smile.

“Our mission is to kill or capture an arms dealer in the Middle East.” He showed her a picture of a bald man with grey beard “Asif Ayad.”

She just nodded and they all prepared to go. On their way via chopper, HQ radioed in. “Intel reports a munitions convoy moving towards the target, take it out before it arrives.”

“Copy that.”

They landed on a hill, overlooking the road, Jasper was her spotter the others secured the rear, as they went prone. “There they are.” Her comrade reported not long after. “Two trucks, escorted by six technical. Distance, 600 meters.”

Moira took aim, inhaling deeply, having the leading vehicle in her sight and pulled the trigger.

After a short delay, the lead vehicle stopped dead right in its tracks, driver dead as blood splattered on the windshield. Then she did the same with the technical in the back, stopping it as well as she shot the driver.

However, the other insurgents quickly jumped into action, firing towards her position, yet could not hit her from that distance.

Adjusting aim, she fired at the gunner of the lead vehicle. Blood splattering from his head, he was thrown backward into the dusty road.

Noticing the hostiles were close to the trucks, the sniper fired at the cargo of the second vehicle. In a cloud of smoke, the entire convoy lit up, killing everyone before a shocking bang followed.

“Convoy destroyed, nice shooting!” Jasper praised her before moving on, landing at a hill

“Okay, Asif is a half a click north, I’ll cover you.” Moira ordered as she overlooked the house and her squad mates moved down.

A single guard was in front of the house and she took aim, firing a shot. Blood splattered against the wall as the insurgent stumbled before falling dead to the ground.

“Can you cover me when I breach?” Jasper requested and she switched to a SMG, moving down too, while the others covered the back door.

“Righto.”

Upon in position, Jasper kicked the door down and moved in, followed by his squad mates. They encountered no resistance, which the woman found strange, as Jasper pointed to a closed door “Check that room.”

She did as told but the moment she opened it and stepped in, something hit her head hard and she fell to the ground, crying in pain. As her vision became clear, she found herself at gunpoint by an insurgent, unable to get up as he put a boot on her arm.

“I trust my shipment is on schedule, Mr. Jasper.” A new voice in Arabic sounded and the SAS member could not believe her eyes.

Their target was personally walking in, escorted by her squad mates as he eyed her with surprise. “Who is this?”

“My squad leader. Don’t worry, I’ll take care of it.” Jasper assured but his partner had doubts.

“I hope for your sake you’re correct.”

She tensed herself as her fellow soldier walked up to her, a slight hint of regret in his expression. “Sorry, Moira, nothing personal. I send your son my condolences.” Then the insurgent knocked her out.

When she came to with an aching head, vision blurry, she had to blink several times to clear it. With slight fear, the woman noticed she was retrained on a chair, facing a camera, surrounded by several insurgents. She could not understand a word but they sounded happy, like a child in a candy store.

Just then, Ayad came into the room and looked into her eyes with a neutral expression. “Your son will miss you, it will be hard for him. But that is part of growing up, just like you mourned your husband.” That surprised her as he continued, “it’s accepting the inevitability of death. The inevitability, Mrs. Morrison, of death. I hope that gives you comfort.”

A chill went through her body as the mother realized her situation, heart racing, knowing there was no way out, no rescue team or anything, as the arms dealer turned towards the camera.

“You come to our country to murder us, yet we are the bad guys if we try to protect ourselves? This is the price you pay.” He reached for a knife and she instinctively struggled as he brought it close to her throat.

Her life flashed before her eyes.

A loud bang rang in her ears.

The arms dealer flinched and stumbled. His body hit the ground in a puddle of blood.

Another bang and another body hit the ground, followed by screams from below. Her captors looked around in alert and panic before being riddled by bullets, the light was shot out as well.

“Hostiles neutralized.” A new, English voice announced and she saw several soldiers, but the darkness made it impossible to recognize them. They cut her retrains and escorted her out of the building.

Just in front of it was a chopper, a man with a sniper rifle waiting for her, smiling. “Glad we managed to save you in the nick of time.” It was James, much to her surprise.

“B-but…why?” She could only stutter as he helped her into the chopper.

“It’s the right thing to do, Moira, and my job. After all you achieved, I could not let you suffer like that.”

“Wow…he went so far to save you?” Dinky could not believe it.

“Yes. He was curious about what I would do once grown up and was proud. As such, it felt most natural to join him after Jasper’s betrayal.“ Moira sighed. “You see, Jasper made it look like I was the one who was working with the enemy. James did prove my innocence and yet this all was denied publicly by the government.

They did not even compensate me. Years of service and I was not cared for. As such, I lost faith, yet did not know where to go. A life of SAS training isn’t worth much in the civilian job market. But James…I had the same purpose as in SAS. Get my hands dirty, so the world stays clean.”

Her interlocutors tried to process everything before Clive walked up to them. “Sorry to interrupt but call for you, Moira.” He pointed to a tent and she nodded.

“Excuse me a minute.” As she walked towards it, the group could not help but follow, listing in at the entrance.

“Hey, sweetie, how are you?” she asked, it dawned on them she was talking to her son. “Nah, don’t worry, it’s just another training, you know? Yeah, we’ll be on the safe side, as always. Yeah, I’ll be fine. I call you back later. Gotta go now, bye. Love you.”

As she came back, Tungsten could not help but ask, “What happened to your husband?”

A sigh escaped her mouth. “Officially, he died in a traffic accident. Unofficially, he was killed by Jasper in an attempt to make me quit my job and cover his shady deals but carried on. I found out after James saved my life. And Jasper got what he deserved…”

With James’ help, the traitor was tracked down to a hidden safe house, using the cover of the night to move in. Once in position at the door, Moira breached it, seeing all her former comrades, except for Jasper, completely surprised, and caught off guard. She did not hesitate to shoot them with the entry team, taking them down before they could react.

“Guys, what’s going on?!” Jasper yelled as he ran down some stairs, his expression shocked to see his former squad leader. He attempted to draw a pistol but she was faster, shooting him in the arm and leg.

The man yelled in pain, dropping to the ground, with his former collogue kicking the gun away. M-Moira…” his voice was one of fear. “I never wanted anything of this to you…you gotta believe me…It was Ayad, who wanted the death of you and your husband, not me...I had no choice…I never wanted to harm you like this…”

“Sorry, mate, but you should have thought about it before making deals with the enemy. You ruined my life. And our government wants you dead.”

With a fearful look, he stared into her eyes before she pulled the trigger, blood splattered from his head.

“I felt no remorse for this, he betrayed me and robbed me of my love and job, he should have thought twice about this…” Her voice was cold, as if she would do it again without a second thought.

Before they could say a word, Moira’s radioman walked up to them. “We are ready to assault Zona Dos. Also, I shall inform you from Anna, Shadowplay, that your wing should be healed well enough by now.”

He nodded and Blue used her magic to remove the bandage, with him doing a brief flap, happy that he could fly again, as Clive led them to the docks.

“The Black Hand are setting up patrols all along the Rio Wanay. They are putting the pieces together, time is running out.” James was already waiting with Rico, Mira and Sheldon, a small fleet of Stormwater Patrol Boat docked, each having an ion coil and mortar mounted on the back.

“Good, you are there, let's move out!” Blue, Fletcher, Dinky and Tungsten joined James in one of the boats, the siblings with Tybalt and Shadow on the other, driven by Kyle. The adults mounted the machine guns, while the kids took cover in the cabin.

“Mind some music?” James asked before the radio started to play an odd song to the ponies. It lyrics focused on atrocities in mankind's history from Satan's point of view, like the violence of the Russian Revolution of 1917 or WW2, wondering how one could get up with such a song. But didn’t really mind it.

Shortly after departing, the clouds in the sky became darker and it started to rain. “Enemy boats, incoming!” Dinky warned as she spotted several in the distance, ready to incept.

The kids pressed themselves against the metal as both sides exchanged fire, hoping it would hold. It was a short and one-decided fight, as the attackers fired their mortars, sinking the enemy ships in big explosions.

“Watch out, minefield!” Blau warned, yet their caretakers were quick on the draw, opening the way with the MGs.

After that, the water led to what looked a small base with a floodgate blocking the way, causing Sheldon to comment, “That’s a big door. You, uh, brought the giant key, right kid?” Rico just groaned at the joke.

Fletcher and Blue teleported to the left side of the base, Shadow and Tybalt the right with their grappling hooks, keeping the defenders distracted as the kids took care of the generators.

Dinky ripped the cover off the left generator through her hook, allowing Tungsten to see his hook to rip it out. Rico covered the siblings as Katja aimed at the generator’s cover and removed it, with her brother ripping its internal parts out.

Having no power supply, the gate unlocked, its passengers getting back on board and Rico’s boat pushed the gate open.

Just after passing through, the group heard the sound of a rippling flow up ahead.

“You hear that? The falls are coming up!” Tom warned, sounding nervous, and as Rico asked if he was, the former agency member just replied, “Yeah, a little. That’s what makes it fun, though!”

Wait, waterfall?! The ponies thought before letting out a mixed scream of fear and excitement, holding on as the boats drove over the edge, falling towards the water down below, grunting in pain upon impact.

“You’re okay?” Dinky asked concerned as she helped Tungsten up.

“I am fine.” He nodded, seeing how Tybalt helped the siblings up from the other boat.

“Before we hit this storm, listen up:” We figured out a way to connect the Ion coil to the Thunderbarge’s mortar.“ Sheldon interrupted, causing Rico to raise an eyebrow.

“We?”

“It was my idea. Mira and James’ technical expert Crispin just did the grunt work of hooking everything up.”

“So how’s it work?” Rico was curious.

“Heck if I know. Positivity streams or something”

“Mira?” Rodriguez asked his second-in-command on the radio.

“Your Ion coil absorbs the lightning. When it’s charged, whatever you hit, lightning strikes.” She explained.

“I call it the ‘Thundergun,” Sheldon announced proudly.

“More boats ahead, together with infantry at the coastal village!” Blue’s son warned.

The MGs suppressed the infantry as well as they could in response, while their mortar gunners aimed.

It was fascinating and quite…freighting as the lighting hit with the mortar strikes, easily destroying every enemy resistance in big, electrical explosions. It made the ponies understand why James aimed to stop this weapon attempt.

Every further intercept attempt was futile, the base becoming visible shorty and the eyes of the pones went wide.

In the center of the base, was a giant ball, crackling with electricity, raised into the air by 3 cranes on each side.

”Hold on!” James warned as the boats drove over the ramp-like edge of the base, entering it.

“Bring down the lightning rods protecting Zona Dos. It’s our best shot to neutralize the core.” Their female ally advised them and they saw the targets in their HUDS, 3 turbines were marked where the cranes

“Careful, not that you get fried!” Tybalt warned his batpony friend was about to take to the skies.

“I got this!” Shadowplay assured him.

James and Kyle gave suppressive fire with the mortars as the pones disembarked, the kids, covered by Fletcher and Blue, going for the 2 neatest rods, while Tybalt and Shadow made their way to the farthest.

It was not long until he felt a tingle in his mane, together with a shower of sparks crackling above him, causing the stallion to dive towards the ground. As lightning struck, it dazed an enemy squad on the ground, twitching and letting out random gibberish. Shadowplay quickly dispatched them with headshots and noticed he was just in front of the target.

Tybalt then caught up, having torn through the defenders with ease as the orange-dappled pony opened the turbine with the grabbling hook. His comrade fired a shot with his revolver, causing the turbine to spark before exploding.

Fletcher with Blue had, despite the weather, little trouble covering the children as they moved towards the other turbines, keeping the defender easily suppressed.

When Tungsten reached the left machine, he fired his hook at it to open it, allowing Dinky to fire a spell at it. In a small cloud of smoke, the turbine melted. Katja did the same with the right Turbine, her brother used his to hold it open. Blue fired a shot at it, making it explode.

Suddenly, there was a loud whine and their eyes went small to see four drones taking to the sky. The first 2 were shaped like a trapezoid. 2 tiny rotators on either side. Much smaller in size but of the same design, the other drones started to fire bullets.

Not wasting any time, the ponies scrambled to cover but the kids had an idea. Firing their grappling hooks, the siblings reeled the smaller drones to the ground, exploding in a small fireball.

Tungsten and Dinky had an idea of their own. Firing the hooks at the bigger drones, they reeled them together, making both explode in a fireball.

“Good thinking, son!” Tungsten's mother praised him,

“All that’s left are the maglocks holding the Core’s shielding in place, leave it to us,” James informed, his allies going to cover as they saw the boats firing at red glowing parts of the cranes.

As soon as they exploded, the middle of the machine blew up, shedding its outer layer, revealing a rotating brightly colored eye-like ball.

With the core exposed, the mortars fired with everything they had and after just a few hits, the structure collapsed into the water, with a flat, circle-like device briefly visible in the middle.

Almost instantly, the weather cleared up and the enemy retreated at the sight, the kids cheered at their success.

With Mira inbound, Sheldon told Rico he had something to show them, adding on the radio, “General, you might want to see this too.”

“Understood. Fletcher, I think you should come too.” He sounded unsurprised, and while taken back, the ponies did as told, wondering what it could be.

Tom led the group to a very nearby set of ruins, on a hill next to the base as he explained to his friend, “When I was researching Solis, and your father’s situation, I heard about an old Agency outpost that used to be near here.

“Why didn’t you tell me this before?” Rico asked surprised and his older friend shrugged.

“Well, I didn’t want to get your hopes up, but I thought we might find something out about your old man. This was his project, after all.

It made the ponies wonder how Rico’s father could have worked on this, as Sheldon touched a rock in a stone column. Causing the ground to shake briefly and he laughed.

One of the ground plates moved into the ground, revealing a big elevator platform and everyone got on it. After a short ride, 2 doors slid open to reveal a big room with computers, which were of an older design, causing the rebel leader to comment, “This place has been here for a while”

“At least thirty years I’d reckon.” Sheldon suspected and Rico put it together.

“A surveillance outpost.”

“This must’ve been where they kept tabs on the Illapa Project. Espinosa, your dad and the weather technology”.

“How long has the Agency known about this?” Rico sounded confused, only for his friend to laugh as he started one of the computers.

“Here, looks like a good place to start.” As he did so, the ponies and James took noticed how Rico looked at an old photograph of 4 men and possibly recognized his father in it. “This is interesting.” The former agency member tore everyone out, “Your dad’s name is in the file.”

Pressing a button, the computer showed an old security camera recording of a man in a white coat talking to a man in a suit and a woman, but the quality was too low to make out any details.

“Do you have any idea what I’ve sacrificed for Project Illapa?” The coated man sounded angry, it was clear this was Rico’s father.

“Miguel-“ the suited man, which they assumed to be Espinosa, started but was cut off.

“No, I refuse to take part in this any longer. Good luck finishing Illapa without me or my work.” Miguel stomped off, out of sight.

“If Miguel Rodriguez is allowed to leave this project, he will be a serious liability.” The man warned but Espinosa seemed unbothered by it.

“If we were to take care of that liability now, Lanza Morales’ work on Zona Uno would suffer. No, let Miguel leave, let Lanza hear that he reunited with his family.”

“Then what?”

“I have Black Hand in Medici under the command of Sebastiano Di Ravello. Who, last I checked, is in the agency’s pocket.

The woman pulled out a phone. “I need to speak to General Di Ravello.

Espinosa let out a sigh. “Thank you for your contribution to Project Illapa, Miguel.”

With that, the video ended and the ponies startled as Rico grunted angrily, kicking a table as his friend held up his hands defensively. “Rico, I had no idea. You gotta believe me!”

“It never made any sense why Di Ravello killed my parents.” He paced around, breathing heavily, “It was the Agency and Espinosa, using that idiot dictator’s coup as a cover. How could you not know anything about this?” His eyes blazed with anger as he accused Sheldon, who kept his hands up.

“I didn’t know anything about Project Illapa or your parents or any of this back then. I was brand new at the Agency. This sort of thing was way above my pay grade! I only had orders to save YOU.” He then sighed and picked up the picture. “I’ll tell you this, kid. You and me? We’re going to end Espinosa and take out Project Illapa together. I knew the Agency was dirty, but…” Sheldon trailed off, putting an arm around his friend.

“Look, why don’t you head topside, get some fresh air? I’ll keep snooping around here, ok?”

“You let me know if you find anything else.” Keeping his upset expression, the leader of the rebels left.

Dinky and her friends wanted to comfort him, but they knew it was best to let him cool off on his own.

But still…

“How could they do this to him?” Tungsten wondered, it was beyond his imagination.

That is the way of the CIA, to do its country’s bidding by whatever means necessary.” James told the kids with his head lowered, as if ashamed, “during the Cold War, they did covert operations throughout the world in support of the USA foreign policy, fermenting, supporting or inciting coups and regime changes, whenever it was a regime or revolution that befitted their anti-communist or democratic ways. Even suppressing the latter to ensure communism is kept from spreading.”

“Speaking of, you should take a look at this.” Sheldon got their attention as he pointed at the screen, showing another recording of 2, a man and woman in suits talking.

“Espinosa has been a valuable asset so far to us, but what if he becomes a liability?” Worry was in the woman’s voice.

“Then we do as we have done before, get rid of him and replace him with a more useful puppet.” Her fellow agency member stated calmly.

“And how? Our top agent, Rico Rodriguez left us. He was our most reliable agent for this kind of mission.”

“That is not a problem. We can always rely on non-American help from the outside. That German PMC, the Harmonious Guard, we could trick it into doing our bidding, abusing their case to help others for our goals.” The man sounded rather confident, as his colleague thought for a moment.

“That…sounds very good, actually. I see what we can get up with.”

“So the agency hired secretly me to get rid of Espinosa…” James mumbled, his hand wandering to his chin as he processed it with an unimpressed expression. “I figured as much. Who else could have enough intel to know about it and to hire me?”

“B-but…that doesn’t make any sense.” Dinky mumbled, “If they support this project, why take it down?”

“Oh, it does, Dinky, as much as it pains me to admit. The CIA supported dictators when they fit their goals but turned on them once they threatened American interests. Saddam Hussein was a good example of this. His regime was seen as an indispensable ally in the Iran-Iraq war, only to turn on him as soon as he threatened US interests in the Middle East. And using rebels or mercs to do the dirty work is not uncommon for them. But since I now know who really hired me…” He chuckled briefly, “I can bend the game to my rules. In any case, get some rest now, we still have a long way ahead of us.”

Everyone nodded and went to the elevator, seeing night had arrived as it reached the top. They could briefly see a raging explosion far away in the distance, the defensive node they assumed.

One down, two to go.

Author's Note

Moira's background, got it kinda from this