Striving for Perfection

Take a deep breath through my mouth. A long exhalation in the same way. Attempts to breathe through the nose are initially doomed to failure. Yes, I just feel that April has almost come. And the allergy strikes.

The main thing is that the blow is not struck from the mental zone. You're not going to drink alcohol and cry on the first of April, are you?

Nodding slightly to myself, I looked around to somehow distract myself from my condition. There were several soldiers around me, to be precise, all of whom I had personally trained a long time ago. Except Flying and Report. I think there is no need to explain the absence of the first one, right? I don't even want to know why he agreed to stay in the city so easily. Probably wants to confuse me. And I left the second one as a guarantor, at least some discipline among the soldiers in Canterlot.

Sighing, I looked ahead at the empty train station, where there is no one at such a time. Strange, considering that the sun is almost at its zenith. Maybe today is a working day and everyone is busy right now?

Yes, yes, probably so. Well, the main thing is that the train with our updated tanks arrived on time.

At the reminder of why I and my soldiers are here, a small grin appeared on my face. The only good news lately. Although the fact that Celestia didn't tell me anything for escaping from the Gala is also not bad. But the medal was never shown to me. Okay, I didn't really want to. As if sensing my pleasure, Rising came closer to me and tilted his head to the side and asked: "Did you remember something funny, sir?"

I waved my left hand slightly before answering: "I just reminded myself why we are all standing here and occupying the train station. By the way, did I tell you about this, or did I drag you here again without explaining anything? "

Rising nodded slightly and sat down next to me on the bench before saying, " Well, you were very active in saying that these tanks were sent for a small, uh, upgrade. And we are all here with you to conduct exercises on interaction with these tanks in battle, right?"

Hmm, it looks like you've been sleeping too much lately, crybaby. You explained everything in too much detail. Suddenly one of them is another traitor and will blab about tanks who doesn't need?

I quickly decided to discard this thought in order to keep myself at least in some kind of calm and quietly said, looking at my neighbor on the bench: "Yes, Rising, you remembered everything correctly. As always, you show yourself perfectly."

Rising smiled gratefully at me and quickly nodded. Hmm, each time he takes the praise easier and easier. I don't even know if it's good or bad. I shrugged slightly and looked around. The soldiers occupied several benches and talked to each other. They seemed to have recovered from the loss of many of their comrades. Surprisingly fast. Like how long has it been? Two weeks, more?

None of them ever really worried about their fellow soldiers. At most, they sometimes exchanged a few words. If they had something more interesting to do, they would never have talked to each other in their lives. Friendship at work is a lie. Lying is unacceptable. Work is a necessity. Friendship is manipulation.

Suddenly, my stream of thoughts was interrupted by Rising, who asked in a slightly embarrassed manner: "But I still don't quite understand why we are waiting for the train right here in Ponyville. This city is calling... unpleasant memories. Like, wouldn't it be easier if we were waiting for the train in Canterlot? "

Hmm, there's almost no caution in the voice. I pointed to the city far behind me and continuing to look at the tracks replied: " I am not sure that it will be possible to transfer tanks through the narrow streets of Canterlot. But here, as you might have noticed, the urban development is not so dense. So it may be possible to unload the tanks and start the exercises. Is it reasonable? "

The rising was silent for a while as if he was considering it, but in the end he slowly nodded and said, " Yes, it will probably work. In Canterlot, however, the roads are not the widest, and there are a lot of ponies."

Did you see, did you see!? He was thinking about your words. As if I really wanted to find mistakes in your words. Or do you also call this healthy criticism?

Before I started to refute this idea, a strong sneeze came out of my mouth, which made the soldiers look at me. Before I could refute their experiences Rising asked worriedly: "Are you sick, Mr. Sir Boss?"

I waved my hand slightly and answered with a sniff: "Just an allergy. Not for the first time."

Rising looked around and asked: "Allergic to what? I just don't see any flowers around here."

Hmm, are we crossing out flowers from the list of what could be your allergy?

Slowly shaking my head, I sneezed again covering my mouth with my hand before saying, "I have no idea what I'm allergic to. All the information I have is that the stuff I'm allergic to starts blooming around the middle of spring and fades in early summer. So for the next two months I'll be like this, get used to it. "

Rising looked at me for a few seconds before smiling awkwardly and asking, " This may sound silly, Mr. Sir Boss. But didn't you think that you were just sick at this time? It just seems strange to me that you don't know what you're allergic to, but you're sneezing right now. Like, I know I'm allergic to honey. "

I stared at Rising for a few seconds before paying attention to the environment around me. Grass, grass, grass and a couple of lonely trees. But I feel just disgusting. Like, you can't be allergic to grass, right?

What's the difference? Don't let him use your trust! He just wants to suppress your willpower like any other traitor!

Quickly shaking my head, I looked at Rising again and replied: "No, I don't think I get sick every year at about the same time for the same period. Someday I will definitely find out what I am allergic to. And then I will destroy this plant once and for all. "

Rising seemed slightly embarrassed by my last sentence but didn't say anything. Shrugging my shoulders, I looked around and adjusted my glasses. In the distance, my eyes noticed a gray spot. Here's the train. I can't wait to see the new flamethrower tanks.

Yes, I totally agree. By the way, how will we conduct the exercises? Of course, you can drive through the fields so that everyone can see new developments. Or we can create a new land for farmers. Slash-and-burn method, of course.

Chuckling, I squinted at the approaching train. In just a few moments, my eyes were able to make out an interesting detail of this train. Instead of dozens of wagons, he had only a wagon with coal and a flat platform on which tanks were standing. It is difficult to see at a distance, but I will assume that they were attached to the platform with belts and the like.

Well, this is probably the only and easiest solution for transportation. Shrugging my shoulders, I took a deep breath through my mouth and closed my eyes. I have a training session with tanks scheduled today. Most likely in the forest, fortunately there is one nearby. But then what should I do? Like, I don't even want to see Canterlot anytime soon. Suddenly, all the soldiers who were trained by Flying are changelings? A whole third of all my soldiers at the moment, traitors!

Correction, crybaby. Two-thirds. Rising is also very similar to a traitor. We need to bet on an obedient, characterless puppet. Report is our option.

Taking a deep breath, I got up from the bench as soon as I saw the train approaching. Together with me, Rising rose by four hooves. I put my hands on my hips and, tapping my foot with impatience, looked at the train. When he was very close to me, there was a creak and the train began to lose speed quickly. To my surprise, he drove a little further and so there was a platform with tanks in front of me right away. How convenient.

Smiling, I took a few steps forward and with a small jump climbed onto the railway platform. My eyes began to study the updated tanks with impatience to see them in action. Most of the hull has not changed in any way, except that some dents on the hull of a weakly armored tank have been eliminated. But the main detail was a small barrel sticking out of the front of the case. In addition to him, a silver pole with a small crystal at the end stuck out of the case at an angle a little higher.

Hmm, the tank looks like a unicorn. In any case, according to the drawings, the silver pole accumulates magic and somehow converts the surrounding air into water and already charges it with magic so as to turn the liquid into a flammable mixture. But there is a nuance. The process of this transformation is extremely long. So it cannot be considered an infinite ammunition. Well, they say that the tank's stay in battle is equal to five minutes, right?

I didn't have time to chuckle when I heard an irritated voice coming from the cab of the train: "Take your trash, faster! I can't stand here all day."

Sighing, I squatted down, trying to find the places where the straps unfasten. No such place was found. Before pulling the knife out of my pocket and starting to cut the straps, I muttered: "How good that I took everything I needed with me. And even more."

When I cut off all the belts from the first tank and started moving on to the second, I waved my free hand before saying: "Everyone who has already used tanks, get inside. I just recommend not touching anything inside. I don't want you to burn everything around too soon."

Behind me, I felt a few nods and like four ponies began to slowly approach me from behind. As soon as the last belt binding the tank to the platform was torn, I took a step to the side and jumped to the ground. Seeing the vacant place, thestrals began to climb into the tanks, two for one unit of armored vehicles. Then the hatches on top of each tank slammed shut and a series of clicks were heard from inside.

Now we have to wait for the engine to warm up.

Sighing, I coughed slightly into my fist and focused on the cabin of the train. I really hope that the driver will not start whining again. I'm already on edge because of recent events and someone's whining won't help me at all.

As if sensing my desire, the engine seemed to warm up faster than usual and sounds of active water bubbling could be heard from inside. Then the tank tracks slowly began to spin in the opposite direction and the equipment slowly began to roll backwards. Then with a loud bang, the first and then the second tank got off the platforms and landed on the ground. Just in case, I took a couple of steps to the side and shouted, "Okay, okay. Now pull away somewhere to the side. I would not like you to stand on the rails."

Fortunately, my voice was heard, and the tanks began to drive back slowly moving away. Yeah, if I ever update this technique, I'll take care of mobility. Although it is unlikely that such times will ever come. Like, if firearms are prohibited here, then what can the enemy do to the tank? Right, nothing. So by the time these tanks really lose weight, I will either be on the Ground or this whole world will already be captured.

Hmm, maybe some super magic can break through these tanks? Or poison gas? Precisely! If you can't use gunpowder, then just destroy all your enemies with fire and gas. And now imagine what will happen if you combine it. Incredible, isn't it?

Smiling slightly, I nodded to myself and looked at the tanks that finally went off the rails before suddenly an idea came to my mind. I didn't check how the radio works in the tank. It would be bad if it didn't work at all. Turning to Rising, I waved my hand and said, "Rising, follow me. We need to check the operation of the radio in the tank. The rest of you, get ready for work. "Fortunately, Rising quickly nodded and started walking with me to the tanks, which had to move a couple dozen feet away to get off the rails. That's how slowly they turn. Sighing, I looked down at Rising and said softly: " If anything, you will work with the radio. Of course, I climbed inside the tank once, but that's enough for me to understand that it's very cramped for me there."

Just for a moment, a small grin could be seen on his face. At first I wanted to stop it quickly. But then I sneezed and laughed and said, "Yes, it would be very funny if I got stuck in the hatch of the tank without the opportunity to get out. Or if I was stuck inside and couldn't turn around properly. Comedy is always to some extent a tragedy, right?"

He's going to lie. Check it out.

Rising nodded slightly and replied with a sigh, "Yes, it probably is. It's sad, to be honest. Does someone always have to be offended?"

For a moment I looked surprised by such words and wanted to say something in response. But then my eyes noticed that we had already approached the tank at point-blank range. Sighing, I lightly tapped on the tank's armor and said: "If you want, we can discuss it later, Rising. But now, please, get into the tank and turn on the radio. To begin with, turn on the walkie-talkie on the usual frequency, in case someone from Canterlot is trying to send a signal now. If you don't find anything, then just switch the purity until you hear something, okay?"

Rising quickly nodded and flapped his wings and climbed onto the tank before opening the hatch with two hooves. Then he quickly slid inside and after a few seconds I heard a loud buzzing noise. Sighing, I leaned on the tank's armor and looked into the distance. In the distance, my eyes noticed something pink in the sky. No, I guess I'm just imagining it. Just what I should be doing. There may be traitors and spies around, there is not even an approximate plan to capture Equestria, as well as a plan to return to Earth. Dead ends everywhere.

Just arrange a little cleaning of the personnel. I think we can roll the dice. If the sum of the numbers from two dice is less than seventeen, then we kill three random ponies. Hmm, what are you saying, crybaby? On a standard die, the maximum number is six and it is impossible to get seventeen by rolling two dice? That's the point. This is the author's idea!

Before I could shake my head, I saw that Rising stuck his head out of the hatch and said with some fright on his face: "Mr. Sir Boss, Flying is in touch. And well, that sounds creepy."

Frowning, I waved my hand slightly, thinking that it wasn't too serious and said, "Turn up the volume a little bit and ask him to repeat the message. Oh! And tell him that if this is a joke, then his face will get very bad. It would be better if he told jokes like before. "

Rising swallowed and climbed back into the tank. Since he didn't close the hatch, I could hear him say, " Flying, the captain wants you to repeat what he told me. And you better not joke about how you like to do it. Although, you haven't told jokes for a long time."

Great, we caught a spy. If it is declassified by Rising, then I will have nothing to do with it. Now the problem with at least one traitor will be solved.

Before I had time to grin, a hoarse voice of Flying was heard: "Eh, now is not the time for jokes, yes, now is not the time. In short, the princesses said that some guy named Discord was freed from the stone. And, well, I don't know, they just told me to give it to you, you madman. Maybe you should go back to Canterlot? Reception."

For a few moments I just stared into the void. Discord was released from the stone. To be honest, part of me wanted to believe in the end that Discord has been just the result of my rich imagination and a strange statue in the garden. But there's no denying it now, is there?

It doesn't matter. Now we need to figure out what to do. Driving tanks to Canterlot will take a lot of time and will waste precious coal. Hmm, we need to understand what's going on right now. The phrase "Discord was released from the stone" gives too little information.

Nodding to myself, I took a deep breath and said loudly: "Rising, ask Flying for more information. I do not know any words said by Discord, if there were such or something similar. I need every little thing."

In response, I felt a small nod from inside the tank and Rising began to quickly transmit my message over the radio. After a few seconds, he finished speaking and the answer came from the other side: "Hmm, did I already say that I was closest to Princess Celestia and that's why they ordered me to tell you all the news? So, I could hear that Discord was saying something. It looks like a riddle. I only remember the part about the fact that some Elements are located where it all started. Whatever that means. And that's all I heard from Discord. Reception."

Okay, damn riddles, always hated them. They look like a mockery of intelligence and logic. But today, so be it, I will solve this riddle. First of all, who was asked it? Most likely to Celestia or heroes. That is, they have the answer about where it all started. Hmm, where it all started. The hospital where babies are born. No, I don't want to believe it. I don't want to look for six maternity hospitals where the heroes were born. There must be something simpler. I think we need to ask another question. When did a heroes become heroes?

My eyes widened slightly at the realization. Usually, someone begins to be honored when he or she overcomes some serious threat. A monster, for example. And who acted as a monster for a long time? That's right I am. I don't know what exploits these six heroes had before me. Probably nothing. So it all started in Ponyville. The location of the harmony Elements is calculated.

Great, crybaby, great. Now the main part begins. We need to pick up the Elements of Harmony for ourselves and preferably not reveal ourselves. In short, to deceive all fools and alternatively developed. Such an operation needs a decent and most importantly non-obvious name.

Silently looking at Ponyville and seeing strange pink things above it, I chuckled and took a step away from the tank's armor. I clapped my hands loudly to attract attention and said, looking at the bulk of the soldiers: "So, soldiers, today the exercises are canceled due to new circumstances. There is a threat and we need to build a defense in the most important parts of the city using updated equipment. And do it quickly!"

In response, they all quickly nodded and began to climb onto the tanks. As well, no one asks unnecessary questions. Nodding to myself, I turned to Rising, who stuck his head out of the hatch, and told him in an imperative tone: "Tell Flying to monitor every movement in Canterlot and report on everything important that is happening there. The main goal is heroes. I want to get situation reports every three hundred seconds. No more, no less. Tell him that. "

Rising instantly nodded and swallowed the lump in his throat but asked anyway: "What's going on, Mr. Sir Boss? Is this Discord so dangerous that we need to protect an entire city?"

Tell him the truth. But only partially.

Taking a deep breath, I climbed onto the tank and looking down at Rising answered: "You yourself have seen by the example of Ahirata what the Elements of harmony are capable of. And we cannot allow them to be captured by someone with bad intentions. But if my guess is correct, the elements are in Ponyville. So the plan is simple. I quickly distributed the soldiers to the most important areas of the city before going in search of the Elements. I called this plan Operation Savant. "

It seemed that the fact of having a plan calmed Rising a little and he nodded slowly before asking with a little laugh: " As I understand it, I will sit here and talk on the radio, yes? "

Grinning, I stroked Rising's head and answered loudly: " Yes, you got it right. I hope everyone else understood everything too."

Not hearing any words refuting this, I looked in the direction of Ponyville and pointed at him with my finger and shouted: "Great, so Operation Savant has officially begun. Lets go to the city!"

Since the engines were already warmed up, the tank quickly moved off, almost throwing me and the other soldiers. But fortunately this did not happen and after the equipment moved the rails, the movement was quite smooth. Just like my allergy.

Suddenly, a sneeze escaped from my mouth, the sound of which was drowned out by the movement of the tank. No one even paid attention. It's probably even better. Sighing, I turned around expecting to see the second tank. But I didn't see anything. He couldn't just disappear, right?

A tank with a walkie-talkie has heavier armor, remember? Accordingly, he is slower than the one who does not have a walkie-talkie.

Before I even had time to nod, I saw that a lighter tank was overtaking on the left. The soldiers sitting on this tank waved their hooves with smiles as they moved away from me. Are they really having so much fun overtaking someone? Grinning, I shook my head slightly and shouted: "When you get to the city, split up! The first group will stand with a tank in the town hall. And the second group should occupy the base of the local garrison. Carry out the order!"

Fortunately, they heard my order and nodded in response. Sighing, I finally looked at the tank going further and further away and focused on Ponyville itself. As I got closer, I managed to make out something pink in the sky. Squinting and adjusting my glasses, I froze in shock. These are clouds from which something brown is coming. I wish it was shit and not chocolate. Ugh.

Considering the oddities that Discord likes to do, it's most likely chocolate. Positive:there is no foul smell. Cons: everything else.

Taking a deep breath, I looked at the approaching city and noticed one obstacle. A bridge over a small river on which there were traces of tracks from a lighter tank. That's the problem. Will the bridge withstand a heavier tank? Or will the bridge fail, which can lead to the drowning of expensive equipment?

No sooner had I come up with a solution than I felt a touch on my leg. Lowering my head, I could see that Rising was trying to attract my attention in this way. Noticing my gaze on himself, he cleared his throat and began to speak loudly so that his voice would not be drowned out by the tank: "Flying reported that six mares who had previously used Elements of Harmony headed to the maze in the garden. He asks if he should follow them. What should I tell him?"

Is there a maze in the gardens? Hmm, I never noticed him. In any case, we need an informant constantly transmitting information. So let him keep a safe distance.

Nodding, I looked at Rising and answered, trying to be louder than the sound of the tank's work: "Tell him not to enter the maze and watch from afar. He can't risk too much."

Fortunately, Rising heard my answer and quickly nodded and climbed back inside the tank. Sighing, I looked ahead and saw that the bridge over the river was already very close. Somehow, it will not work to interfere. Closing my eyes, I took a deep breath through my mouth and prayed that the bridge would withstand the weight of the tank.

At first I heard some kind of creaking. Probably the nose of the tank hit the bridge but did not stop the movement. Well, at least so. Then I sneezed again and felt myself being pulled back first and then forward. Probably a tank is passing over the bridge. I kept my eyes closed for a few more seconds, but eventually I opened them and immediately sneezed. The bridge is crossed. I think there will be no further obstacles.

Slightly adjusting my glasses, I focused on the road ahead and saw that many ponies were standing on the street and looked scared. Either it's because of the technique or because of me. Clearing my throat, I said loudly so that everyone could hear me: "There is a serious threat called Discord. For security reasons, I ask all civilians to hide in their homes. And quickly!"

Fortunately, the authority of the guy on the tank, that is, me, turned out to be great enough to make the pony slowly head home. Hmm, they're so trusting. I think it can be used later. The main thing is to figure out how.

We need to find the archives. Interesting documents about Celestia's activities must be lying around somewhere. And then? We will pass this information to the right media. And the ponies will already be much better prepared for the new leader.

Nodding to myself, I looked straight ahead and saw several soldiers crowding next to the town hall and talking to someone. Squinting, I managed to see that it was the mayor. I think she should be aware of what's going on here. Nodding to myself, I leaned over to the open hatch and said loudly: "Hey, driver, stop the car near the town hall. I need to talk."

Even without looking in the driver's direction, I could feel his nod and notice how, as we approach the Town Hall, the tank begins to slow down. Chuckling, I focused on the mayor and waved my hand to get her attention. To my surprise, she really noticed me and stopped talking to the soldiers. Well, I hope she won't ask stupid questions.

When my tank drove up to the town hall and almost completely stopped traffic, the mayor ran up to me and asked with some indignation in her voice: "What's going on here, Captain?"

It's not indignation, crybaby, it's fear. She sees that she can't do anything. And she's scared of the mighty war machine you're sitting on. Blow her fears to the wind. Ask her to stand in front of the barrel of the tank. It can be messy there.

Sighing, I waved my hand and replied calmly: "I received news from Canterlot. A guy named Discord is at large and poses a serious danger. I also have information that the Elements of Harmony are in Ponyville. So my task is to ensure security here and find the Elements before they get to undesirable individuals. "

The mayor stared at me for a while before nodding slightly and adjusting her glasses to say, " Okay, I'll believe you, Captain. It sounds incredible, but I will give you a credit of trust. But could you not use these weird loud things? They spoil the roads if you haven't noticed. "

Looking back, I saw that there was a long track of tank tracks on the road and a pile of dirt on the sides. Hmm, has it been raining recently or is the ground always so soft here? Shrugging my shoulders, I focused on the mayor again and answered categorically: " This is not possible. This technique is called a tank and it is necessary for more firepower. In case of a threat, they will be the main striking force. All I can promise is that this tank will not move further if there is no threat. But my tank will ride for a long time."

When I finished speaking, I raised my hand and pointed to a light tank standing next to the town hall. After a few seconds of silence, the mayor took a deep breath and said, "Okay. Just try not to turn all the roads in the city into an outrage, okay?"

I was about to say something, but a sudden sneeze prevented me from saying anything. After that, I could only hear giggling for a moment. That's funny to her, but I'll feel the same way for the next two months. Taking a deep breath through my mouth, I nodded to the mayor before turning to the rest of the soldiers in the tank and saying, "So, all of you. Spread out in pairs and occupy the bridges. In case of any attack, quickly retreat. With such a number, you will not be able to hold more than one bridge. "

The soldiers reluctantly nodded and slowly began to lick off the tank, rattling equipment. Before I could nod, Rising suddenly raised his voice again and said distractedly: "Flying, I've been in touch again. The maze in which the six ponies entered disappeared. Just went underground. And as Flying described it, five of the six ponies lost color and looked wrong. And then they headed towards Ponyville. To be honest, it's very scary, Mr. Sir Boss. W-what will this Discord do when he meets with u-us?"

Oh look, he was so scared that he started stuttering even though he never did it. How sweet. I think today we can give him the truth. Just name the worst possible option. Where everyone will die pissing themselves and shitting themselves.

Shaking my head quickly, I leaned into Rising's ear so that the mayor wouldn't hear anything and answered: "Don't worry, Rising, the flamethrowers and my personal strength will handle it. Now let's talk about what to pass Flying. Tell him to take a dozen soldiers with him and secretly start moving towards Ponyville. It is advisable not to be seen by anyone. Understand?"

Rising nodded quickly and lowered his head inside the tank again. Then I straightened up and looked around. Where it all started, where it all started. Where heroes became heroes. Hmm, I just need to remember where I fought with them. It was here somewhere. Somewhere nearby.

Library in the form of an oak tree. It was in front of her that the battle took place. Maybe the heroes lost in it specifically, but everyone remembered them as martyrs and desperate people. Well, soon their desperation will only get bigger.

Nodding to myself, I leaned over to the hatch again and said: "Driver, turn left and drive forward to a tall oak tree. This is the first place I need to check."

Without any words, the tracks began their work again and the tank began to move. To my own surprise, the tank was able to fit in the turn, even though it was on the verge of colliding with houses. Well, now we can move forward. I'm pretty sure the Items are in the library. That would explain why as many as six ponies would decide to defend her and become heroes for it. So you can already plan what to do with the Elements.

We will pack all these Elements in a beautiful suitcase and go to talk with Ahirata. Let's see what the teddy bear tells us. With the Elements in front of him, he won't be able to lie. And after the final interrogation, it will be possible to deal with the elimination.

I was about to nod to myself, but I saw a strange thing. From a smaller point in front of me, water began to flow. But unusual, but with foam like in the bathroom. Despite the logic, the tank began to wobble slightly, as if it was really sliding because of this. Damn, this will slow down the traffic a lot. It's definitely Discord's tricks and if he's playing against me, he could have done something even worse. For example, teleport heroes directly to Ponyville. Which is unacceptable. The soap road must be destroyed.

This is water with foam, so it can evaporate. Smiling, I leaned over to the hatch and said with anticipation: "Launch the flamethrower and align the course. I need the fire to be focused strictly on the road."

In response to this, I felt like some pony inside the tank quickly ran from the end to the front of the hull. Does the loader rest all this time? Okay, I'll turn a blind eye to this for now.

Quiet, there's going to be a performance!

I turned away from the hatch and looked forward eagerly, expecting to see the full power of the new weapon. Without forcing me to wait for a long time, a small drop of water first escaped from a small trunk in front of the tank, but the next moment a whole stream began, which quickly burst into a bright flame. A wide jet of fire shot out far ahead, exactly more than a hundred feet and created a cloud of steam when it came into contact with the water. A few seconds later, the tank had already driven into the cloud and stopped wagging from side to side. On the other hand, my glasses are fogged up.

I quickly wiped my glasses, not wanting to miss the sight, but it was too late. The stream of fire stopped coming from the trunk. Don't tell me that minute was all the ammunition. Leaning towards the hatch, I asked irritably: "Why did the fire stop coming?"

Instantly, the shocked response of the thestral from inside the tank followed: "That's all. The container with the liquid is completely emptied. Oh, one drop just fell into it! Let's wait a couple of hours and it will be possible to shoot again."

What a positive mood. Why are you so cheerful, Comrade loader? Maybe you are glad that we have run out of ammunition?

I slowly shook my head and sighed and focused on the road ahead. The cloud of steam had already dissipated and I could see the effects of the flamethrower. All the soapy water in front of the tank was evaporated, which allowed the equipment to safely drive to the library. Seeing that there was very little left to the destination, I felt my pockets. Knife and cube. In case of opposition from someone in the library, they will go into battle.

When the tank began to slow down, I once again leaned towards the hatch and said: "Driver, pull over right in front of the library entrance. If you notice someone approaching, then leave quickly. I'll figure it out myself."

From inside the tank, I felt a single nod that made me chuckle. The driver is so silent. No unnecessary and stupid words. Great. Well, it's time to work. My right hand slowly reached for the knife in my pocket to snatch it out instantly if anything happened.

Suddenly, the tank completely stopped and, as I ordered, right in front of the library. Sighing, I jumped off it and looked at the ground below me. To my surprise, it looked like a chess board, only huge and blue. When did the earth become like this? Or did she do it instantly? That is, Discord can create such changes instantly?

I had no time to come up with answers to all the questions in my head when I heard a loud sound behind me. It's like a lot of rocks are falling down. Turning around, I stared dumbfounded at another change in the landscape. Several buildings were floating in the air along with plots of land. Among them was the mayor's office. And the tank along with my soldiers.

Calm down, the tank has not been damaged yet. And the Thestrals can safely fly away. How are we going to get the equipment out of there? Well, you just need to break the line of one annoying creature. Although if you want, you can break the lifeline of all creatures in general. We don't need half measures.

Nodding to myself, I turned around and stretched out my hand to the door to the library. But he stopped when he sensed movement there. Something small is about half the size of a pony and moves on two legs. Oh, there's definitely some kind of lizard living there and he seems to be intelligent. Hmm, I think it will be very easy to put it on a knife. No, wait! The loss of a neighbor is usually noticed very quickly, like. So I just use invisibility. Thank you, Luna, this spell helps me a lot to harm others.

Grinning, I quickly created a rune with an empty square symbol on my left hand and the next moment after activation I found my hand invisible. Behind me, I felt the soldiers inside the tank looking around, not understanding what had happened. Hmm, did they forget how I did the same thing during the battle with Ahirata? Although it doesn't matter, it's time to move.

With a sharp kick, I opened the door, hoping that the lizard inside would perceive it as the wind. Mentally shrugging my shoulders, I tiptoed inside the library and looked around. So, where can the Elements be? Hmm, maybe on the second floor? Like if I was storing some important thing, I would leave it either minimally deep underground or as high above the ground as possible.

Stop, freeze! The footsteps are coming, the lizard is approaching.

Following my thought, I froze in place without moving and looked in the direction from which the steps came. A two-legged lizard slowly descended the stairs from the second floor, rubbing his eyes with his hand. Is he sleeping all this time or is he just tired? Damn, you shouldn't have kicked down the door. Not paying any attention to my thoughts, which is logical, the lizard stood in the middle of the stairs and looking at the open door said before shrugging his shoulders: "Probably just the wind."

Then he continued down the stairs and judging by the look he was going to close the door. Does he not notice the world around him at all? Restraining the urge to sigh, I carefully walked around the table on the opposite side of the lizard and stood in front of the stairs. One hundred percent will creak. I am absolutely sure of it. We need to find a way to drown out the creaking. Hmm.

Turning around, I saw that the lizard had already approached the door and started reaching for the handle to close it. Bingo. As soon as he pulled the door open, I took the first light step up the stairs. As expected, there was a creak. Wasting no time, I took a few quick steps at a time, overcoming three steps at a time. In the end, I was on the second floor and looked down at the lizard. To my surprise, he just froze in place and stared blankly at the door he had closed. Then he opened the door and opened his mouth looking at the city. Did he just notice what happened?

Calm down, you can laugh at the child later. Now we need to look for Elements.

Nodding to myself, I turned away from the shocked lizard and looked around the second floor. There was a bed in front of the window, some kind of basket with pillows and a door. There are no more big things. A trash can closet is not considered a big thing. With my hands on my hips, I began to think what to check first. There's hardly anything stored behind the door. Probably, it's a bathroom at all. But many people can store things under the bed. What can I hide, it's under the bed that I keep my phone in case I can ever charge it. It's gonna happen sometime, right?

Instead of answering, the sky suddenly became dark as night, which made it much more difficult for me to see. Great answer, world. Quickly shaking my head, I went to the bed and lay down on the floor to look under it, which was not easy considering the darkness. On the way to the bed, I felt the lizard lay down on the floor and heard snoring. Does simple darkness put him to sleep? Shaking my head, I focused on the space under the bed again. Empty, absolutely nothing. There's not even any dust, it looks like someone likes cleaning. Before I could even express my disappointment, I felt five ponies approaching the library. Are they heroes? Damn, that makes it a hundred times harder for me.

No, crybaby, it only improved our situation. The heroes know where their precious Elements of harmony are. And as soon as they take the glitter, we'll create a fog. Quickly, clearly, imperceptibly. The enemy will be defeated before he realizes the fact of the attack. Or we have a plan B that is much better. Just kill everyone here. Spare no one. And by here I mean the whole damn city.

Sighing, I pulled out a knife from my pocket that did not become invisible and looked at the approximate location of my left hand. As soon as I see the Elements, I will make a wound on my left arm and create a fog. Everything is very simple and fast. The main thing is not to screw up. Nodding slightly to myself, I walked to the edge of the second floor and looked at the door. Heroes will come here any second.

First, the sun suddenly rose outside the window, and one pony after another began to enter the room. Applejack came into the room first. But for some reason it was gray, as if it had lost its colors. Hmm, maybe I tried unsuccessfully to dye my hair? Shaking my head, I focused on the next pony, Fluttershy. She was also gray, but her face and movements looked somehow more confident? Or Snape? Both of them?

In any case, she has become much better. I don't know what happened to her, but it's better for her not to try to come back.

Mentally chuckling, I looked at Pinkie Pie, who entered the room next. Oh, she's even better. Not only is she gray, she also keeps her mouth shut! I consider it an absolute victory. If Discord did it, then I will be happy to thank him. Before you kill.

No one entered the room after Pinkie Pie. Hey, where are the other three? I need more spectacles! And preferably bread. Seeing nothing, I propped my head with my left hand and started watching the ponies who had already entered the room. The lizard was sleeping on the floor, snoring, and a mop and bucket were lying next to it. Where did they come from here? No sooner had I started thinking about it than Fluttershy took a bucket with her hooves and poured all the water on the sleeping lizard. Immediately after that, I felt the urge to sneeze and quickly covered my mouth with my hand. Fortunately, no one heard my muffled sneeze. In any case, I definitely like Fluttershy a lot more in this form. Does not try to get into the soul and can amuse.

Yes, yes. The main thing is not to fall in love with a horse, okay, crybaby? Although why am I asking. You actually have to listen to me if you want to achieve Perfection!

Sighing softly, I looked at the front door behind which I felt the presence of two unicorns. Great, but where's another Pegasus? Instead of any answer, the door was smashed with a huge boulder, to which gray Rarity immediately ran up and said: "Careful, Twilight! You could have damaged the cut."

When I heard that, I just tilted my head to the side and focused on Twilight. Unlike everyone else, she was still the same color. A little sorry to be honest. Mentally sighing, I focused on the heroes in the room. Come on, show me where the elements are. My knife is already ready.

Lizard and Twilight exchanged words that I couldn't hear at this distance. In any case, they walked together to the center of the room, but Fluttershy asked in an almost childish voice: "Twilight, guess what's so wet here."

In response, Twilight rolled her eyes and opened her mouth to reply, but she was interrupted by water and a bucket hitting her head. I covered my mouth with my left hand, trying to stifle a laugh. This is certainly not the peak of comedy, but I want to laugh out loud very much. While I was doing all this , the lizard asked incomprehensibly: "What happened to them?"

Good question lizard. I'm also interested. I want to find out how to make everyone like this. If this is some kind of operation, then you need to go through it, crybaby.

While I was thinking, Twilight approached a huge bookcase and replied: "There is no time to explain, you need to find a book about the Elements of Harmony before they do something they will regret later."

"Do they store items in a book like ordinary people store money? Hmm, how stupid. " I thought to myself while the lizard quickly climbed the ladder standing next to the bookcase and after a couple of moments solemnly picked up the book. But the next moment she was intercepted by Fluttershy and briefly laughed. Twilight then demanded the book back in response to which Pegasus threw it to another pony.

Propping my head on my hand, I watched the action and the shifting of the book with boredom. It became a bit of fun when all the ponies started fighting in one crowd for a book. Oh, I wish I had a camera with me. But in the end, Twilight got out of the crowd with a book in her hooves and sat on the floor and opened it. And there were all six Elements of Harmony. Bingo.

While Twilight was looking at the Elements, I quickly made an incision in the palm of my left hand, from which blood soon began to flow. Sighing, I put the knife in my pocket and began to create a blood rune with a mist symbol. After finishing this, I quickly activated the rune and it began to suck my blood from the wound. My eyelids felt a little heavy, but for now I decided to ignore it.

Eventually, the rune gathered enough blood and hung in the air for a second. Before filling the whole room with a red mist! Barely restraining laughter from exultation, I quickly jumped from my position to the first floor and approached the place where I had previously seen the book. Twilight was still sitting in front of the Elements, but because of the fog, she closed her eyes and coughed. Hmm, is it poisonous?

No, absolutely not. She's just being dramatic and subconsciously wants to be taken care of. She's so pathetic, you know?

Nodding slightly to myself, I moved the book closer to me, slammed it shut and took it under my shoulder and ran towards the exit. To my own surprise, I managed to find a hole in the wall in the fog and go outside without any problems. After a few quick steps, I finally left the fog frozen. The tank left, which is understandable, they followed my order. But there is a much more unpleasant detail. Discord, here and looking right at me.

Or he's just waiting for someone. Gritting my teeth, I looked around and saw the alley and headed towards it. But I was interrupted by Discord who waved at me and said, "Hey, Dani! What are you doing here like this? Although your intentions are very transparent, as I see it."

They sent him far away. He doesn't see you, just looks at the book. And in general, punches will not catch up with fast legs!

Taking a deep breath, I slowly began to take one step at a time while my mind was trying to come to terms with this decision. I'm retreating, running away like a coward. But it looks like I don't have any other options. Nodding to myself, I abruptly ran towards the alley clutching the book to my chest. I felt nothing behind me. There are no lines, it looks like Discord has as much magic as Celestia. Okay, that won't stop me from trashing him.

Having fully focused on running, I eventually accelerated too much and found that I had left the city limits. I don't even know what scared me so much. Taking a deep breath, I stopped and pressed myself against the wall of the nearest house. My gaze went over all sides in search of threats. Empty, everything is fine. Trembling slightly, I opened the book and saw all six Elements of Harmony in it. Great. Operation savant can be considered completed.

No, no, no crybaby it's not over yet. Operation Savant will be considered completed only when the Elements of harmony are safely hidden and the Discord is eliminated. Think yourself in what order to do it.

Taking a deep breath, I ran my finger over one of the Elements of Harmony and shuddered slightly. It's a strange feeling. It's like if I direct magic there, it will spread throughout the element. Just like. . . Lines?

"It probably just seems like it." I muttered before closing the book and looking around again. There is no one, there is no need for invisibility. Closing my eyes and taking a deep breath, I began to create a rune with the symbol of a shaded square in my right hand. Fortunately, I managed to do it on the first attempt and with a small flash I became visible again. Great.

My gaze focused on the injured left hand, which was still dripping blood. I hope no one will track me down. Adjusting my glasses, I began to think where to hide the book. Since the crystal with the soul of Ahirata is in the castle, the elements should be stored as close as possible to the Canterlot. Hmm, a problem.

We need to find Rising. Give him the book and tell him to hide it. He somehow managed to hide the locket, so he can also hide the book.

Nodding to myself, I slowly moved away from the wall and looked around the distorted neighborhood. Where could the tank have gone? After a few seconds during which my brain could not think of anything, I sighed and walked towards the hill. Surprisingly, his Discord almost did not touch. I didn't even change the tree in any way. Well, strange creatures like hares with disproportionately long legs are constantly running around. But I don't see this as any threat to myself.

After a while, I felt that I was being chased by five ponies. Strangely, it seemed to me that Fluttershy, in his new state, would refuse any cooperation. Although, what's the difference? If they ask me why I took the Items, I will always have a simple question. Ensuring security. How do I know these gray ponies aren't fakes, right? That's right, so I have every reason not to give them the necessary things.

With renewed confidence, I quickly walked the rest of the way to the tree and turned around and looked at the city from above. So, the town hall is still flying. Still with the tank. I'll try not to pay attention to it. Sighing, I continued to look down at the city from above and after a few moments I was able to make out a tank with several thestrals standing next to it. The equipment was standing next to one of the bridges as if they were already thinking about escaping.

There was no order to retreat, soldier! Everyone get back in position!

Chuckling, I looked at the book again and made sure that I was holding it tightly and started running towards the bridge. Unfortunately, almost immediately after I started running, the heroes came out of one of the alleys. As if in slow motion, Twilight pointed her hoof in my direction and said, "YOU! Give us the elements! Follow him, girls! "

Continuing to run, I waved my free hand and said with a grin: " This is confiscation. The elements can't get to thieves who are trying to disguise themselves as the real owners. Bye, fakes!"

Surprisingly, my words were able to convince most of the ponies. Only Twilight went after me. Well, I can run away from one pony without any problems. As the distance between us increased, Twilight began to speak loudly: "Don't you see what Discord is doing? He must be stopped! And only the Elements of Harmony can do it!"

No, fool, you forgot about Perfection. I can deal with Discord in less than five minutes. I just need to hide the Elements.

Nodding to myself, I continued to run and soon I was close enough to the thestrals that one by one they began to pay attention to me. However, there is a small nuance. Because of the route, I need to make a turn to cross the bridge. Accordingly, lose speed. Which I don't want to do considering the unicorn is behind. But the river here is not very big. Ha. . .

Holding the book under my armpit, I made a jump across the river holding my glasses in my hands. During the flight I didn't feel any wind, did Discord remove it too? What will he remove next? * The laws of physics? Although considering the soaring town hall, he has already done it.

My thoughts were interrupted by falling to the ground on my back. At least I was able to jump the river, already a limited success. While I was lying on the ground and taking a breath, Rising ran up to me before anxiously asking, "Mr. Sir Boss? Are you okay? Who were you running away from? What's wrong with your arm?"

Don't say anything. Just blatantly lie and you will be happy.

Ignoring all the questions, I picked up a book with Elements of Harmony and said: "I'll tell you later. Now you need to hide it somewhere. No one should find this book. And in general, if anyone asks, you've never seen it. Understand? "

For a few moments, Rising looked at me with some concern, however, as did the rest of the soldiers surrounding me. But in the end, he carefully picked up the book with his two wings and slowly walked towards the tank. Just at that moment, Twilight was crossing the bridge and shouted: " Stay where you are! There are Elements of Harmony in this book! "

All the soldiers paid attention to the unicorn and took a few steps to the sides, which eventually exposed me lying on the ground. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed that Rising froze in place and was looking at the book. Gritting my teeth, I slowly got up from the ground and dusted myself off and said, " Yes, this information is true. However! This artifact is used by six ponies. But I can confirm to myself, no, there is only one legitimate owner in the whole of Ponyville. So until six ponies come here in their normal coloring, I will not give up the Elements. For the safety of Equestria. Don't worry, I'll deal with the Discord myself. And you and your fake friends can rest."

To my surprise, Twilight did not respond to my words. She just stood in front of me with a sad look. There was silence between us for a few seconds before Twilight lowered her head down and said: "You're right. I and my insignificant friends are not needed here. Friendship is not needed. Never have been. You or anyone else will be able to handle Discord much better than me."

My eyes widened at these words while there was a real triumph inside. Victory? Victory, the enemy is smashed in the head! My eyes only got wider at the sight of the fact that Twilight began to lose color and after a few moments completely lost the paint. Continuing to keep her head low, she went forward in her new form. And it was at this moment that it became dark as night again on the street.

It looks like Discord wants to catch up with the drama. Well, it didn't do anything. He only made it easier for us to attack in the back.

Sighing, I looked at all my soldiers whose faces conveyed a whole cauldron of emotions. Sadness, empathy, fear and, probably, shock. Summoning all my strength, I clapped my hands and ordered: "Everyone quickly return to duty! The order to retreat has not been received and will not be received. "

Without waiting for the soldiers to answer, I turned to Rising, who was still looking at the book, and said, " Hide the book and tell me what information Flying gave. Hurry up, every second counts. "

There was a heavy sigh before Rising threw the book into the hatch of the tank and replied with a blank look: " Flying said that he and fifteen other soldiers followed the five ponies, but suddenly they disappeared, leaving the soldiers in shock. It looks like the heroes were teleported here. After that, Flying returned to Canterlot. He said he wasn't going to go five years before the fight, which would be over by then. And after that, he stopped reporting information."

I don't even know whether to kill him for his betrayal or praise him for his confidence in my abilities? I think I'll praise him first, offer him wine, and when he takes the first sip, I'll say: "This is a wine with a unique taste that all spies love. Cyanide."

Sighing, I looked at the town hall floating in the air and said: "of course, reinforcements are not expected. Okay, I can handle it alone. Just stay in your place, and Operation Savant will be successful. "

Unfortunately, I didn't have time to take the first step as Rising cautiously suggested: " Mr. Sir Boss, should we, well, leave?"

Slowly, I turned my head so that I could look at Rising with only one eye. Noticing the attention riveted to himself, he took a step back and continued with difficulty while panic was growing in his voice: "I don't doubt you in any way, sir, but you just saw everything! Look around, you won't beat Discord! You will die! This is not an enemy that can be defeated by your mind or our numbers. We have to get out of here!"

At the end of his short speech, very little moisture formed in Rising's eyes. That's where the line goes. Either I will comfort him, or he will fall down and cry like a rag. All the soldiers are looking at him so attentively, shame is unacceptable. He's in my hands.

And it's better for him to understand that. Right now. Do as I dictate.

Directing my gaze straight ahead, I slowly walked forward and said: "Don't worry, Rising, in front of such Perfection as me, Discord doesn't have a single chance. Just follow me and watch the show. It will be short but colorful. By the way, this is an invitation for everyone. Go to the Perfection Name show and watch the third act!"

After that, I laughed briefly and continued walking forward. I couldn't feel a single movement behind me. Okay, I'll work without an audience. I don't need anyone to work properly at all. Operation Savant will be a success one way or another. The discord will be broken in a couple of moments without any problems.

Taking a deep breath, I stopped in place and looked up. Suddenly, the sky changed again and it became light. Well, it's only in my favor. The town hall was flying right above me, along with a plot of land. If suddenly the magic of the Discord disappears, then losses will occur. At least in technology. Maybe there is another way to eliminate the Discord? Maybe persuade him to negotiate?

No negotiations. Only complete and unconditional surrender. Yes, it's a pity for a tank, but it makes no sense to go to such an abomination as compromises for the sake of one unit of armored vehicles.

Nodding to myself, I looked around and saw Discord sitting on the throne in the distance. There was a huge house of cards next to him, strange creatures were running and various sweets were falling from the sky. Oh, my God. Once again checking my pockets and making sure that everything was in its place, I walked slowly to the Discord, trying to concentrate. How am I supposed to defeat the enemy without having any intelligence?

"Calm down, just throw a weak attack at him and see what he will do." I said to myself, gripping the knife as tightly as possible. I came, I saw, I won. Everything will definitely work out. I'm going to win today. . .

"Oh, Dani, it's you. To be honest, I'm not very happy to see you. You're blocking the view of the chaos." Said Discord noticing my approach. The animals have disappeared somewhere, hmm, that's good, I won't have to be distracted.

Sighing, I looked up and looked at Discord, assessing the distance. Too far away, you need to get closer. While I was taking slow steps to the Discord, a pink cloud flew up to him, from which a chocolate rain was falling. Just ignore it, Daniel, just ignore it. Unfortunately, Discord with a white flash created a glass glass in his hand that quickly filled with chocolate milk. Then he started drinking, but fortunately not milk, but the glass itself. Strange, but definitely better.

After drinking the glass, Discord threw the chocolate back, which caused an explosion and again paying attention to me, he said: "You know, Dani, I had incredible plans for you. I was thinking about teleporting the dear princesses somewhere so that you could rule Equestria and cause real chaos. But you hurt my old sore heart, which I can't forgive."

Whining, whining and whining. Throw a knife at him, the distance already allows.

Taking a deep breath, I stopped in front of Discord, who was still sitting on the throne, and asked: "Don't you think that's a stupid thing to say? If you want to create chaos so much, then giving me power is definitely the best solution. You know, I used to hang out with anarchists. I even went to rallies with them a couple of times."

"Oh, I know that perfectly well, Dani. Me..." Discord began to speak, but I interrupted him with a knife throw. Squinting, I began to follow the flight of my weapon and wait for the enemy's reaction. Nothing happened until the last moment. But when the knife was terribly close to Discord's face, he just opened his mouth and ate my weapon. Yeah, it didn't give me any information.

Calmly swallowing the weapon, Discord covered his mouth, restraining a belch and replied with boredom: "Well, Dani, it was very boring. Could you think of something interesting? Some super smart diamond move?"

A diamond move? All right, Discord, I'll destroy you with a mat in one move. And there's nothing you can do.

Sighing, I briefly looked at my left hand. Still bleeding. The main thing is that there is enough of this in my body to create another fog. Starting to run to the Discord, I pulled out the cube and started charging it with magic. At the same time, my opponent did nothing at all and just continued to sit on his throne. It doesn't matter, it won't save him.

Continuing to run, I kept my left hand behind my back and kept the rune of mist ready. When there was very little left to Discord, I jumped up and fired eight arrows from the cube, which flew straight at Discord. When they touched his body, they turned into small drops of chocolate milk with a flash. You shouldn't have expected anything else. Ignoring this, I continued flying and kicked Discord right in the face, which caused a sound similar to a toy. Gritting my teeth, I activated the mist rune just before Discord threw me back with a light wave of his paw.

"Dani, this is very very rude. And your shoe is so dirty, do you even wear other shoes?" Discord asked before snapping his finger and making my boot print disappear from his face. But to my surprise, he did not notice the rune that sucked the blood from my wound in a short stream. Damn, my eyelids are getting heavy, I'm going to pass out at this rate.

Come on, crybaby, we still have to work. This operation was doomed to success, and you're still going to shit yourself?

With difficulty, I got up on both feet just at the moment when the rune lit up and created a fog. Great, now I'll activate the explosion rune from above and blow up the Discord. Staggering, I took a few steps forward and began to create an explosion rune in my left hand. But a deep breath was heard from the fog, followed by a stream of wind that completely dispersed the fog and almost blew me away. Now there was a Discord in front of me that has been just blowing, just breathing.

Before I even had time to think about the failure, Discord suddenly appeared right in front of me and said with some irritation in his voice: "That's it, Dani, the conversation is over. I need to enjoy the mess."

Then he brought his middle finger to my forehead, which he held with his thumb. The next moment, an extremely powerful click hit my forehead and a second later I realized that I was flying backwards. Then a hiss from the pain in my forehead came out of my mouth. How is it even possible to give such a powerful click to send a person flying?

Suddenly, all my thoughts were interrupted by a sharp pain in my back and glasses that suddenly cracked. With difficulty turning my head back, I saw that I had plunged into some kind of rock. It's probably a piece of one of the flying houses. Maybe even the mayor's office. Nodding to myself, I looked down. I wish I hadn't looked there. There was only the ground down and the way to it was, to put it mildly, far away. In an attempt to somehow improve my position, I tried to grab something with my hand. Nothing happened except a slight tremor in the limbs. It was as if hitting my back against a rock paralyzed me.

Like a finishing fact, I felt that gravity was slowly pulling me out of a small hole in the rock and pulling me down. Think, think how to save yourself? Maybe not, I can't move. Maybe create some kind of rune? No, that's not an option either. Even if the shield rune saves me, what will I do next? If I can't beat Discord, then I obviously won't be forgiven for Operation Savant. Maybe. . . Maybe I don't have to do anything at all? Just lie down on the ground and wait for punishment?

While I was thinking, the cracked glasses fell off my face and made a long way down. Then a sneeze came out of my mouth that shifted me forward, which made me closer to falling. Eventually, after the second sneeze, I found myself in free fall on my way to earth. After taking a convulsive breath and closing my eyes, I was able to say to myself: "I give up everything. If I survive and don't get punished, fine. If I survive and go to prison, that's fine too. If I die. . . If I die, I can see my grandfather."

Fuck you, crybaby. I'll handle it myself. Maybe you give up, but I NEVER!

POV Rising Moon

There was tension in the air. From the moment the Captain left, I didn't dare to move a step. What can I say, I didn't even dare to look away from the direction in which the captain went. To follow him is too scary. To leave the city, I don't want to betray the captain. He's been looking very depressed lately.

Suddenly, my eyes caught something flying at great speed into the rock that was under the flying town hall. Captain!? I started to take timid steps forward preparing to run, but I heard someone say loudly from behind: "Hey, you hid the Elements of Harmony, right?"

Frozen in place, I slowly turned around and looked at the questioner. There were six ponies in front of me. The purple unicorn that had previously turned gray was now completely colored. Seeing my look, the unicorn said again, "Yes, I remember it for sure. Daniel gave you a book with Elements of Harmony. Where did you put it?"

Not hearing the answer immediately, all six ponies took a step forward, which made me pay attention to one detail. There was no one around. Where did everyone go? At best, there are still two ponies left inside, as the captain calls it, the tank. But they are unlikely to help me now. I'm surrounded, there's nowhere to retreat. What should I do?

The captain will definitely not like it, but, but someone has to beat Discord. And if my guess is correct, the captain couldn't handle it. I'm sorry, Mr. Sir Boss, I have to.

Nodding slightly, I slowly walked up to the tank and jumped on it and leaned towards the hatch. Alas, I couldn't think of anything better to just put the book on the floor of the tank. I hope the captain will not be disappointed. Out of the corner of my eye, I managed to notice that there was no one inside the tank either. Taking a deep breath, I took a large book with two wings and turned to the six ponies and asked: "Nothing will happen to the captain for what happened today, right?"

The six ponies exchanged puzzled glances among themselves, and the purple unicorn asked: "You do realize that he was trying to steal the Elements of Harmony, right? It's impossible to ignore it. As soon as the Discord situation is over, we will inform the princess about what your boss did. "

Pressing the book closer to my chest, I closed my eyes and sighed: " But the captain just wanted the Elements of Harmony not to get to bad people! I'm sure if he was here right now. . ."

"He would have insulted us and wouldn't have given us the Elements. Like, do you seriously believe that he would have done something different?" A pegasus with a rainbow mane interrupted. Before I could answer, all the other ponies nodded in support of Pegasus' opinion. Six against one. Even the captain did not go into such a confrontation alone, he took me with him. But I'm little more than a support. I can't do anything by myself.

Don't cry, Rising, don't cry. Maybe you're scared, but you need to try for the captain's sake. I almost betrayed him anyway.

Holding back tears, I continued to hold the book with one wing and multiplied my sword with the other. Then, trying to be firm, I held the sword out in front of me and said: "Promise that the captain will remain unharmed. Otherwise, I won't give up the Elements."

The next moment after these words were said, all the ponies looked furious and took a step forward. That's all. They'll tear me to shreds, no chance. I closed my eyes and continued to hold objects in my wings. Come on, let's crush me. Who needs me, right?

Suddenly I felt a gentle touch on me and a soft voice that said: "I promise that I will do everything to convey to the princesses, the idea that Daniel did not want to harm anyone. I'm sure the girls will support me too."

After hearing such an answer, I slowly opened my eyes and saw a yellow Pegasus in front of me with a small smile on her face. For some reason, looking into her eyes, it seems to me that she can be trusted. Maybe she would really keep her word?

While I was thinking , the orange earth pony cleared her throat loudly and added: "But we're not going to lie, you know? Just try to be kinder."

There is no other hope. I will never get better conditions in my life. I hope the captain will be proud of me at least for such a result.

Nodding slowly, I returned the sword to its scabbard and handed the book to the yellow Pegasus. With a grateful smile, she took it and flew up to her friends. Opening the book, they exposed the Elements of Harmony that they quickly put on themselves. Then, without paying any attention to me, they ran forward together to cope with the Discord.

When they had walked a couple dozen steps, I got off the tank's armor and muttered to myself: "We need to check that place. If my guess is correct, then the captain needs help. My help"

After that, I quickly began to gallop forward, while every second my gaze dropped lower and lower. What if I'm late? What if at the moment when I had to run to the captain and save his life, I was standing here doing nothing useful? On the contrary, I betrayed him.

While these thoughts were spinning in my head, I began to accelerate, not paying attention to the weight of all my equipment. Six ponies with Elements of Harmony have already disappeared around the bend. I hope they can handle the Discord.

They will definitely cope. My job is to take care of the captain.

Eventually, I was able to reach a small crater in the ground that had the outline of a captain. There was some blood on the bottom and broken glasses, but the body itself was not there. So the captain is fine. Must be.

"But where should he be?" I asked, looking around. There were no footprints anywhere. It was as if the captain had fallen and then completely disappeared. Suddenly, there was a blinding flash that interrupted all thoughts and forced me to close my eyes. After a few moments, I opened my eyes and looking at my feet I could see that the earth had become normal again. So Discord was defeated.

Sighing happily, I looked in the direction where the six ponies turned and saw. . . a two-legged figure? Captain! Seeing my target, I quickly began to gallop towards him with a smile on my face. He stands so confidently in front of them with his arms spread wide, probably now he is negotiating so that everything will be fine with him. And he will definitely win!

As I got closer and began to notice the details, my happiness evaporated. Discord stood between the captain and the six ponies. But for some reason, his chest and both arms were made of stone. Then I noticed that the captain was standing somehow incorrectly. It looks as if at any moment he can either fall or start moving on all fours.

He probably just hurt himself. We need to go up to him and help him get to the hospital!

Nodding to myself, I sped up again to get to the captain as soon as possible. At some point, my ears began to pick up the conversation between all parties. At first I heard the shocked voice of the purple unicorn: "What, how, when you, what!?"

A cold and deep chuckle was heard in response. Then followed a voice similar to the captain and at the same time completely different: "I just copied what I saw. I was looking at how you used the Elements on the Ahirate. As you can see, my copy is slightly weaker than the original. I was only able to cover one third of Discord's body. "

" And this is your mistake! Now I'm going to chatter and chatter and chatter forever! " Discord answered after taking a couple of steps in a circle. At that moment, I finally got into the crowd and was able to see everything as closely as possible. There was another change in the captain that I couldn't see at first. His sleeves were torn off and his right arm became completely black up to the elbow and for some reason a small dot on his right palm sparkled red. Previously, only two fingers were black.

These are probably terrible burns! The captain needs help!

I took a few more steps forward, which caused the captain to pay attention to me and said in an unusually soft voice: "Oh, here you are. Come on, my boy, come closer, we need to talk. I need to pat you on the head."

Smiling, I quickly started walking towards the captain until someone called out to me from behind: "No, wait, it's not Daniel anymore. This is something much more evil!"

They always think the captain is evil. Now they're just angry that he won.

Ignoring the words behind me, I continued walking forward and eventually approached the captain point-blank. He smiled slightly and patted me on the head a little, saying: "You see, Rising, I noticed a little thing that did not please me. The elements of Harmony are not stored anywhere, they are put on these idiots. I think a smart guy like you should have figured out how I would react to this. And your worst guess is absolutely wrong. "

Before I could say anything, a terrible pain pierced my cheek, chest and stomach and I found myself flying off a dozen hooves. Slightly opening my eyes I saw the approaching captain who hissed: " Useless trash. Without talent, without ideas and without a decent personality. You've never been taken away from an orphanage. Do you know why? Because..."

Suddenly he froze in place and stopped saying anything. During this time, six ponies stood in front of me, which blocked my view of the captain. But despite this, I could hear him say, laughing: "Oh, this crybaby is so funny! He clings to useless things so much that he is unable to take even a small step forward. The baby develops faster than he does. Ha, you're lucky, orphan. I so wanted to completely destroy you mentally and leave you crying on the ground. But it looks like today is your lucky day. Enjoy it while you can."

There's got to be a way to get the captain back, right?

After the captain, or whatever took his body, stopped talking, the purple unicorn gave a voice: "Whoever you are, we will stop you anyway! The Elements of Harmony are with us! And our friends!"

The captain laughed briefly and judging by the sound took a few steps to the side to say: "First of all, call me by the appropriate name. I am Perfection. Secondly, who cares about your friendship and what it will do to me? Your life does not have, and in general the existence of everyone on this planet is meaningless. It would be better if a meteorite flew here and destroyed all of you without leaving any memory of the squalid plastic world. It would be fun. Yes, I think the meteorite scenario is the cutest. It's a pity I don't like cute things. "

Suddenly, the sound of hitting a rock was heard, followed by Discord's voice: " Hey, don't be so cruel! You already made me one-third stone, so you also threw me on the ground! I'm not one hundred percent stone to be treated like this!"

After these words, I felt that the pain throughout my body was getting worse. I'm already lying on the ground, and now I want to sleep too. Restraining this desire, my mind began to cling to the world around me. The purple unicorn's irritated voice was heard: "Enough! Come on, girls, let's show him the strength of our friendship! "

Suddenly, all the ponies rose into the air and began to glow with a dazzling light. Reflexively closing my eyes, I could only listen while my consciousness slowly slipped away. Among the strange sounds made from the elements, I could hear the words of the infected captain: " What a nice ending! The villain has lost again, and the heroes are triumphant on his bones. No one will take away from you an imperfect ending! "Then the captain's voice abruptly faded away along with the bright light. With difficulty I opened my eyes and saw that the captain was lying with his face to the ground. Please be alive. Despite the pain in my chest, I took a breath and said: "Please be fine, Captain. "

He's breathing slowly. You can see from here. It's okay, he'll live.

Every second I felt my eyelids getting heavier and my consciousness was shutting down. Before I lost consciousness, I could see how the ponies split into groups. Yellow Pegasus ran to the captain, purple unicorn and pink pony ran up to Discord who was lying on the ground. The others ran to no one knows where. But there is only one thing that can be said for sure.

Nobody cares about me.