Chapter Four

860 POV

Uploading previous mask Data. . .

Upload complete. Replaying old memories. . .

860 was unaware of his current surroundings; it felt like he was sitting down, but he couldn't open his eyes.

No matter how hard he tried, his eyelids refused to open. it was as if someone had super glued, them shut. 'What the hell, why can't I open my eyes?'

Trying for another few moments, the Overwatch voice arose, from his built-in radio. "Alert, Ground units. Invasive, Operation of Anti-Citizen Origin."

"Response code. Assemble. Sword. Inoculate. " Just then, someone punched his shoulder, while a new voice entered the mix.

"Oi, 86, no dozing, while we're on duty. That's what Anti-fatigue drugs, are for." Said a Civil Protection Officer.

Finally, 860 opened his eyes while responding. "Can it, 79, you know I don't use that crap. I don't even do the non-mechanical, reproductive simulations, they give us for, remarkable operations."

The person, named 79, looked over while still driving the vehicle. "You really should give those drugs a chance, especially when in a recess period. Best way to start it, in my opinion."

"Yeah, you also said that about, mixing those drugs with liquor." 860 commented, with a grin under the masked helmet, however, 79 responded keeping his eyes on the road.

"I also recommend that, even though, Dispatch does not. But what's life nowadays, without living on the edge?" 79, suggested making 860 scoffs.

"There's a fine line, between being an addict, and a half-wit. Somehow, you've become both, after trying those drugs. You're the prime reason, why I don't touch that stuff."

Looking towards him, 79, spoke up. "Good, can I have your stash of pills then? After, this round of active duty. That is."

"Hell no. I can use those, for trade. Why would I let that stuff go? Focus on the road, before you make us crash." 860 responded along with adjusting his combat belt.

"And this is why, you don't get invited to 91's gambling reception nights." 79 said,

Rolling his eyes, 860 just sat up, reaching up to grab something. He noticed the gloves he wore, weren't the normal Spikewall gloves he wore. Along with giving a response along with, gripping the sun visor.

"91, has informed me countless times, I can come whenever It transpires, I just choose not to. I went once, and everyone was boozing, and taking narcotics. After that, they began rambling about the old world. Before the combine, while I just took their credits, from said poker games."

Clasping the padded flap, 860 pulled it down to reveal a mirror, and to his surprise; 860 saw a Civil Protection, staring back instead of his normal appearance.

'What is going on here, Why can't I control my movements? Or speak, for that matter, And why am I in a Protection unit, uniform?'

"Alright, enough chit-chat. We're arriving on scene, I think today, is going to be an active one." commented, 79 while putting the prisoner transport in Park.

"Dispatch, truck 47-B is on the scene, for 10-33-A now." 860 informed while hopping out of the passenger side of the truck and retrieving his stun baton.

"Dispatch copies. Investigate, and report. Reminder. Lethal force will be authorized, if Citizens turn the protest, into a Class-C Riot. Exercise caution. Other, Civil Protection units, are in the area and link up. Before moving on the 10-33-A."

Reaching under the seat, 86 grabbed his MP-7 along with extending the rear stock out. "10-4."

Flicking the safety off, and closing the truck door
He cocked the gun while, 79 chuckled.

"God, you're like a teacher's pet when it comes to Dispatch," he remarked, making 86 flip him off silently.

"Just shut up, and keep moving. We need to link up with the others. So we can end this, and everyone can go home." 860 reprimanded, making 79 shake his head while drawing his pistol.

"You do know, I outrank you, 86. As your acting Supervisor, I could make a statement of you being insubordinate, and you'll lose your 'perk' for talking back. Show me some more respect." 79 jokingly teased, however, the non-modified human. Just kept going, deciding to stop, adding fuel to the fire that was his partner.

Following the concrete path, 860 found a combine shield door, walking through without any issue he entered the building it was safeguarding.

Heading to the courtyard of the Apartment complex. 860 saw a considerable, gathering of CPs and fellow Overwatch soldiers.

"Protection Units, prepare stun batons, and riot shields, in the event, citizens become malignant and engage us. Disengage, emotion. And prepare to Inoculate, then sterilize. Those who do not comply." Ordered an Ordinal unit.

Looking around, 860, looked about to see what his fellow allies were planning. He would discover, they were preparing to stop the demonstration, by force.

Storing his MP-7, 860 quickly grabbed a riot shield and moved towards the east exit of the apartment complex to join the front lines 860, could see the demonstration currently going underway.

Making a shield wall with his fellow CPs, a voice appeared from behind him.

"Attention, please. This rally is not authorized. Please, return to your housing blocks. This sector is now under lockdown. Those who fail to comply will face judgment."

This, of course, earned the attention of the angry mob the group of law enforcement.

"Overwatch, sector 89, sub-grid 40. Requires Strider-unit support."

"Overwatch copies, Ordinal unit, Support is inbound. ETA, ten minutes." Said the icey, and stoic Artificial Intelligence.

"This is going to be a massacre, if Dispatch allows it." The younger 860 mumbled while the civilians threw rocks, trash, and more or less anything. They could have picked up and at the metal shield of combine police.

"Protection units, hold the line. Tighten, current formation." In response, 860 and his fellow Officers, made a tight shield wall formation, as the citizens began their verbal assault.

"Your minds are in the gutter!" shouted a man who threw a brick at the wall.

"Traitors! Every single one of you. I doubt you would feel bad for us because you chose your side in this matter!" snarled a woman, who held a wooden plank like a baseball bat ready to charge if her fellow humans did.

"Turn off, the suppression field!" shouted a man, who thought, getting in the face. Of said riot shields, which wasn't a good idea, resulting in him getting shocked in the side.

"You asshats!" the rebel man retorted.

"Dispatch, ready to prosecute, noncompliant citizen, final warning issued." Warned 860.

While the man persisted. "I'll show you some real noncompliance!" Soon heavy footfalls were approaching from behind them.

They were distant, but approaching; 860 and his group needed to hold out just a few more minutes while the citizens kept throwing things at the shield wall both physically and verbally.

Eventually, a large stick-like leg slammed into the roof of the building behind them. Then finally another, ultimately their reinforcements had arrived. Standing on top of the white apartment building. It released a metallic call, indicating it had acquired hostile targets.

"Stabilization team, leader. Update mission directive. New response Code, Assemble. Sword. Sterilize." This made 860's heart rate increase.

'They're going to kill them all, just for wanting to have kids.' The younger 860 remarked inwardly as the Overwatch soldier behind him spoke up.

"Affirmative, Protection units. Equip lethal weapons, and sterilize the anti-Citizens."

Wavering, the younger 860 dropped his shield and stored the stun baton. And equipped his MP-7 Before he knew it, shots were flying and people were being gunned down for a basic human right; as Overwatch declared what they had been charged with.

"Attention, anti-Citizens. You are charged with Code 415, 'Civic disunity.' Code 404, 'riot.' Code 243, 'assaulting Civil Protection officers.' You all are Judged guilty, by the Civil Protection team, All units, deliver the terminal verdict immediately. "

While they routed and tried to escape. The Strider would simply blast them with Anti-personnel rounds. Making them explode into human chunks. Once the slaughter, had died down the Overwatch Officer spoke up, and issued a new command.

"86, and 36, Advance and execute any surviving Anti-Citizens." Commanded the Overwatch officer, looking back 860 gave a nod at the ruling.

"Copy, moving forward." Ejecting his old mag, and reloading a fresh one, he moved towards the deceased crowd.

Most of the civilians had perished but underneath some body parts and a torso 860, found a man clutching his throat, 860 honed his firearm at the dying man. Blood was flooding out from his wound and if it didn't stop he wouldn't make it.

"P-please, we just wanted to have more liberties."He gurgled out, while the Ordinal reached, out to 860 on the built-in radio.

"Protection Unit 86, disengage emotion, and execute the Anti-Citizen." The Overwatch leader instructed. Pointing his barrel at the man, he raised a bloodied hand, in hopes of stopping 860.

"Don't do this, Y-your not like the soldiers. You still have a free mind, is it wrong for us, wanting to teach and pass lessons onto our children?" asked the dying man. However, his hesitation caught the attention of Dispatch who communicated through 860's built-in radio.

"Civil Protection officer designated 86, disengage emotion. Failure to comply will result in. Five ration units, being deducted." Dispatch warned, seeing no way out of this the young 860 composed himself.

The youthful 860, racked his MP7, then pointed it at the man who was going to perish anyway from the loss of blood.

"D-don't. Do it, please your brain isn't, mush yet." The man pleaded but his pleas for mercy ended with a pull of his trigger.

"Protection Unit, 86." Turning to look, 860 saw a Combine soldier. Now that he was paying attention, it continued.

"You will come with us, for a new mission directive, acceptance is mandatory. Protection Unit, 86"

'Well, shit there goes my selected perk.' The human 860 thought but still followed not wanting to cause more trouble for himself than he was already in.

Traveling towards a Different kind of vehicle 860 climbed into the back along with four new arrivals. All sadly, we're soldiers of Overwatch which means a long and silent ride.

'Great just what I needed.' The younger 860 remarked inspecting his MP-7

Slowly the memory faded to black;

Uploaded data received.
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.

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Memory Skipping Forward.

Revitalizing, in a combine Transport truck, 860 was face-to-face with a fellow Civil Protection officer. Beside him, looking around the younger 860 showed there were two more Civil Protection units.

And four soldiers, three assault grunts, one ordinal,

"Protection Units, be advised. We are entering sector 20. Subgrid 91, Overwatch is confirming the terminal restriction zone. Keep sightlines open, and sound on. A possible necrotic outbreak in the sector. If the mission is completed, all protection units, who survive, will be given reward notice."

Grabbing his firearm, the younger 860 still showed hesitation; when they talked about the head crabs.

'Jesus, I hate those damn things; why does dispatch let them run free? Instead of burning, them all.' Saving his hatred, for when he encountered the xen lifeforms.

860 along with the multitude of fellow Combine entered the underground.

Walking through a few combine shields, and one solid metal door a smell had reached the human. It was revolting;

Striding forward 860, Stepped onto Xen flora the fleshy like ground, squelched under the new pressure, making him gag slightly.

'Where the hell is infestation control? This is their department, not ours.' 860 remarked, while the captain of the Soldiers communicated with 860 and the two others.

"Protection Units, watch and secure shadow. For possible hostile contaminants."

Nodding at the order, he and his two comrades formed a loose formation; the three officers turned to watch the back of the group while the overwatch soldiers advanced. Leaving them behind,

"So what city are you from?" Inquired the officer to his left.

"City 10" 860 offered.

"Before or after the insurgent uprising?" asked the same officer.

"Five months before; Where are you from if you're so damn nosy?" stated an annoyed 860.

"I'm from city 19"

"City 17." the officer on his right stated.

'Why can't I be like him? Nothing ever happens in City 17. Instead, I need to be from the most unruly metropolis area on earth.'

"Do you lot, have an idea of where the Infestation team is? This place is filled with this organic Rubbish." Asked the City 19 cop.

860 was going to respond, but the City 17 cop beat him to it. "They're deceased, I see some of the bodies over there, whatever is down here, killed them."

While the three humans chatted and connected their radios came to life.

"Protection units, code 10-78. Has been declared in your sector. Assist stabilization Team, Anti-citizens are heavily armed." Dispatch commanded.

"Rebels down here? Are they nuts?" asked the city 19 cop.

"We can argue about it later, let's just get this done. So we can leave this perdition."

860 very much hated the sounds of the fleshly flooring below him but did what he could to ignore it.

The subway was a maze, thankfully the Soldiers did them a favor by leaving a trail of death to follow soon the sounds of battle reached their ears.

"How are we going to do this?" asked 17,

"We should flank them." 860 offered but 19 disagreed.

"They need critical support currently, flanking doesn't sound like a good idea." 19 argued,

Having enough of this 860 devised a plan. "You two, go help them. I'll flank these bastards. They technically are getting support. But I'm making sure they aren't able to escape. Got it?" he asked and without much resistance, they agreed.

Looking to his left, 860 found then entered. A maintenance tunnel, which led deeper underground. 860 gave one transmission toward dispatch to notify them of his tactic.

"Dispatch, Unit 86 is flanking hostiles, Protection unit is going dark."

"Dispatch copies, proceed with-."

Looking around, 860 shuttered. "I regret this already."

The smell was ten times nastier, down here and alien plant life was bigger and discharging spores, To continue dispersing.

'I'm gonna throw up, that smell is worse than rotting bodies.'

860 made it through relatively unharmed minus nearly getting eaten by a barnacle, and cooking three head crabs with his stun baton he made it.

The fall made his rear sore, nothing pain reducers couldn't fix.

Making it toward the exit he picked up some voices.

"Wipe all hard drives! We can't let them get that information. I don't care if you burn it afterward. Just get rid of it all."

Taking a deep breath, 860 readied himself; gripping his gun and kicked the door in.

'Let's do this!' entering what appeared to be an old data center of mainframes, and other important computer items. 860 spotted a target and quickly buried a bullet in the side of their head.

Pushing forward, 860 walked into a group of rebels; one had managed to get ahold of an Ar1, another a pistol; and the third a pump action.

'Shit. I don't think flanking was such a good idea.' The human 860 reflected, as bullets both man-made and combine made we're shot his way.

Reaching up, 860 radioed dispatch.

"Dispatch, rebel forces are in the AO; unit 86 is requesting support!"

"Copy. The additional unit has been already dispatched. Eta Three minutes;"

860 was stunned by the revelation. 'Only fucking one? Are you serious? How is one extra person going to change it?'

Just then an activated grenade landed next to him. Making his heart stop at the second, click sound off.

"Shit!" grabbing the hand explosive 860 threw it like a baseball over the mainframes as a loud thud rang out.

"Ow you twat!" shouted a man getting hit in the face with it.

The resulting explosion ended the rebels.

Advancing gradually, he checked corners then behind him, as a considerable amount of people advanced, Towards him.

"Are you human? What is your name? Not the designation the combine has given you. Your birth-given name, a man called out.

860 didn't reply while the man continued. "My name is Eli. What is yours?"

The Civil Protection officer didn't respond;

Heavy footfalls were approaching from the concrete wall behind him, pointing his firearm at the wall he braced for a two-front attack.

"I'm trying to help you walk away from this life, to join the resistance after you get a change of clothes."

After Eil stopped talking towards 860, the wall behind 860 exploded outwardly; spraying debris and bent rebar all over the room.

Something stomped forward, before speaking up." Protection unit, remain behind Wall-hammer; Overwatch, Wall-hammer is advancing to engage hostiles."

"Shit! Get behind solid cover! They have a Charger, John! Get more grenades."

Without saying a word 860 Jumped over a fallen mainframe. As the soldier activated the arm-mounted force field.

Immediately Charging in, the more heavily armored Combine's shield glowed brighter before a loud bang rang out.

Making two of the rebels shout in surprise at being flashed.

"Overwatch, Stun shock is code delta nine." the Wall-hammer communicated, disengaging his shield and starting to shoot. The unlucky few rebels who didn't get into cover.

Sticking with his support, 860 assisted in securing the flank of the rebel-controlled area;

"Protection unit, watch radials." The altered human commanded while retrieving an extractor from its combat belt.

"Don't resist." The Wall-hammer requested before activating the grenade and throwing it with deadly accuracy.

"Raising wall." Its shield flashed to life just before an explosion, from the extractor.

By the end of it all, some rebels had escaped, and others were either dead or captured.

"Give us names." Ordered the ordinal, gripping the man's neck.

"We don't know anything." He lied, while the officer punched him in the gut, making him lean forward before the Wall-hammer pulled him back up.

"We don't care. What do you know. What plans does the resistance have?"

"Nothing, we aren't accomplishing anything! That is deemed as Anti-citizen." Having enough of this charade, the officer backed away.

"We will get it out of him; take him to the transport." Turning to look at 860 the ordinal continued to speak.

"Protection unit, 86 Reward notice is live. acceptance is mandatory. A dropship is being sent to extract you."

Awakening. Privileged half-Cognitive Unit. 8-6-0-9-6-2-1 for Duty. . . Stand by.

Opening his real eyes, 860 felt like he was hit by a razor train. Sitting up, and groaning the whole way. 860's vocoder, made his sounds of discomfort audible, they sounded artificial. Along with discovering, his present situation.

Currently, his firearms and stun baton were missing, but 860's armor was still on his person.

The room he was in, was pretty dark, devoid of any kind of sunlight. Reaching up, to rectify the issue, with a simple button press.

However, metal chains and handcuffs halted his hand's advancement. 'What kind of primitive crap, is this?'

Struggling for a moment, 860 tried to remove the chains, but ultimately couldn't. Due to the handcuffs on his wrists, not giving him enough leeway, to break out. 'Great; I'm stuck here, isn't that just wonderful?'

Attempting to sit up, 860 discovered he was able to sit, now just sitting in the dark wasn't a huge deal. But these obscene chains were becoming more of a hindrance towards his situation.

'Note to self, do not trust Equines. Especially the ones, that are in my blind spot.'

Trying a few more times, to escape 860 gave up. 'If only, I had some kind of tool. To assist me, in breaking these cuffs, after that, I can handle the rest.'

Soon a loud clang, of metal on metal caught his attention, then a single pair of hoof-falls. The horse speech followed shortly after.

'If they are contentious, I am as good as dead. Maybe I can use this to my advantage?' their hoof falls stopped right in front of 860's door, and the previous social interaction though muffled, had ceased.

After a few locks were disengaged, the door opened inwardly, and the room filled with an orange hue.

Gentle pops echoed out, while the room filled with soft light from a torch. 860 could somewhat now see, the rag that blinded him wasn't as thick as first expected, more on par with an old potato sack on his head.

Softly the sounds of magic filled his ears as the sack was removed showing 860 a tall white horse with a horn on her head and a flowing mane.

Celestia POV

The day ruler's day court was on recess, her sister before retiring to sleep, informed her of the Alien's capture.

Thinking she was just overreacting, Celestia arrived at the entrance of the dungeons, and entered without much issue, passing the guard's main chamber. Which wasn't housing Sentries, at that time.

However, a pair of voices were echoing off the stone walls. Being the Curious mare she was, Celestia calmly listened, while walking towards the alien's cell.

"Princess Luna, wanted the added security to make sure it doesn't go anywhere she claims it threw her through a wall." Whispered another guard, the second voice of a mare spoke up.

"That explains, the gimp she had in her back legs you saw it too right?" she asked while her fellow Royal guard presumably nodded.

"I don't know if this thing is as dangerous as the Princess claims. If so, Why haven't we just killed it? Or why haven't the Princesses just banished that thing to Tartarus?"

"She even put a noise cancellation spell on the door, for added security. But if you ask me, Princess Luna's magic is too thin. If one of us slammed against it, hard enough I bet it could hear it."

The guards continued to gossip with one another as if they were alone in the dungeons.

Walking around the bend of the dungeon hallway Celestia saw this as her moment to speak up.

"That will be for me, and my sister, to decide. The creature's fate, now would one of you be of some assistance and unlock its cell?" Celestia's little scare made the guards nearly jump through the very cell door they were guarding.

"Y-yes Princess at once!" the startled Guardsmare answered, turning to the door in a flash she began unlocking the cell for the White Alicorn.

'That was a bit excessive sister, I wouldn't even do this to anypony. No matter their origin, unless justifiable.'

Igniting her horn, the sun Princess softly removed the blindfold seeing her alien guest's yellow unblinking eyes. This gave Celestia pause, 'I see why my subjects are calling for its banishment or even execution. Its unblinking eyes would scare most ponies. Though I doubt they realize it's wearing armor, of some kind.'

Moving closer, Celestia began to speak. "Before I begin, I apologize for your harsh treatment, after your imprisonment. I will make accommodations to have you, transferred to a different cell. Or to a solitary cell that has furniture at the very most a bed."

Now with that out of the way, Celestia cleared her throat to prepare a formal introduction. "My name is Princess Celestia, I am the ruler of the day. And co-ruler of Equestria, now please tell me who you are?"

Giving a gentle smile, Celestia hoped her act of friendliness would make it speak, however, all it managed to do. was looking up towards her, now able to see its surroundings.

Stepping a few steps closer, giving a slight frown, the sun Princess tried again. "Can you understand me?" the white Alicorn continued, seeing if a method of communication would be feasible.

'The creature seems unable to understand us, or maybe even speak our language; this makes future questioning hard for us to understand his motives and origins. But still, I need to keep attempting a stable form of communication at a later date. But who should I delegate this to when I'm unable?''

Shaking her head softly, Celestia turned to leave. "I must go, do not worry, I'll send somepony to offer food and other necessary items."

Gradually, Celestia left the cell and evidently, the dungeons. Walking back to her throne room her recess had concluded.

Walking past a maid, Celestia stopped and gently coughed to grab her attention.

The maid was a pegasus she turned and bowed respectfully after seeing who it was and immediately spoke up.

"Your Grace, how can I be of service?" she asked, still staying low to the floor in respect.

"I would ask you to bring a meal to the jail, a prisoner in the solitary sections of the dungeons." This made her ears fold but she didn't respond.

Catching this, Celestia raised an eyebrow at the display. "Is something wrong?" she asked not sure of what she said to spark the reaction.

"If I may be honest, your Highness, that thing down there scares me. What if it attacks me? Or lashes out in any kind of aggression?" she doubted.

Shaking her head Celestia answered. "My little pony, would you think I would send you there if it was dangerous? He's secured tightly, and can not harm you or anypony, all I ask of you, is to offer him food and water."

Slowly the Mare's ears went back before she nodded. "Very well, your Highness, what shall it. I mean he, be offered to eat?" The Pegasi corrected not wanting to upset the Solar Princess.

Celestia opened her mouth to speak but prominently closed it. She nor any other pony, knew what his daily diet was so anything and everything was on the table.

"For today, I think maybe something involving fruit should be a safe starter; after that, we try vegetables," Celestia ordered for her guest.

Making the mare nod. "I shall inform the kitchens immediately of your selection, your Grace." Standing the mare gave a slight bow again before departing.

"One more thing, please." Celestia requested making the mare stop and turn back to look.

She didn't speak, so the sun ruler continued. "I know I am pushing your comfort zone by asking this of you, but do you think you can keep him company while he eats?"

Giving a soft nod the mare trotted off, Celestia continued on her path. Finally making it back to the room where her royal duties mostly happened.

Seeing Blueblood and other notable nobles there made her cringe inwardly.

'Just for one day can't I enter my throne room and no nobles of any kind be inside?' The Sun Princess asked before releasing a soft sigh knowing it wouldn't happen.

860 POV

The Overwatch soldier sat there waiting; and for what? His team was dead so no potential rescue, he had no connection with any other kind of Combine-related entity in this cell so for all intents and purposes.

The alien empire had left him on the back burner. Looking to the corner of his vision, 860 checked the built-in clock which marked the current time midday.

'I have my mission directives that is more than reason enough to escape. But how do I break out?'

Just then a gentle knocking noise echoed around the room, originating at the metal cell door.

Slowly it opened revealing a horse in clothing similar to a maid uniform. Holding a plate of red things on it along with bread.

Verging towards him slowly, 860 watched her walk closer till finally, she stood in front of him.

Gently taking the tray from her back she placed it in his lap before backing away not wanting to be this close to him.

Looking down at the food gifted to him there were sliced fruits, a roll of bread. Along with a glass of water.

Glancing back towards the female horse she shifted from right to left nervously, even more so now that he was directly looking at her.

While he watched her, 860 studied the equine. The horse had wings on her back, her fur color was of a soft gray and her eyes were cyan. Along with that, her hair was softer shades of blue.

'These horses have strange color patterns. I do not believe that is normal with the current database, about them. I haven't consumed anything. I may as well try this stuff.'

Looking back down at the food, 860 tried to lift his hands to attempt to pick the food up but the handcuffs stopped him.

Attempting it a few more times, and failing. The horse called out,

"For Celestia's sake. Hang on."

looking over he saw her with her hoof against her face, in their version of a facepalm.

Walking over to the door she opened it and talked with an individual outside of the cell.

A moment later, a pair of keys floated, yes floated inside and undid one shackle, after that was done it floated back out and she closed the door.

Rolling his free hand; his wrist cracked, much to the displeasure of the onlooking Equine.

Reaching up, 860 undid the first strap then finally another gripping his helmet and in one swift pull removed his helmet.

Placing it on his lap, he took in the cell once again but this time without his helmet's aid.

The room was darker, farther away from the fire torch near the door, and to his surprise, the equine looked more dumbstruck than before.

Ignoring her reaction he cautiously picked up the sliced fruit, before smelling it.

'It smells fresh, and sweet with a hint of tart.'

Popping it into his mouth, he began to chew the apple slice.

It tasted; adequate, certainly a step up from a standard food ration but it no doubt something to write home about.

Eating another slice. Then another, before he knew it.

860 ate eight slices of Apple, his next target was the bread roll, grasping it he bit into it without much issue.

The roll was soft on the inside and chewy the taste was ok and it was certainly filling for just one person.

He finished the individual bread roll within a few bites and lastly, the glass of water, was taken into his gloved hand, 860 took a long hard drink.

Being in this model was making him sweat, true. This cell was cool, but it wasn't stopping his body from combating excess heat.

Putting the glass down with a sigh, that seemed to grasp the pony's attention. While the equine began her approach, seeing that he had finished his plate of food.

"Done already? You must have been really hungry weren't you."

Acquiring an idea, 860 watched the mare approach once her head leaned down to grab it with her teeth. The half-human grabbed her by the barrel and pulled her on top of him.

She, of course, gasped and struggled.

Getting her onto her back, had exposing the female's abdomen. This resulted in her flushing a different color.

"U-um what are you doing sir?" asked the embarrassed mare looking up, spotting his free hand hovering over her head.

She Watched it as if it was a flying saucer.

Cautiously, 860 placed his hand against her head, gently patting her forehead making the mare produce a face of confusion.

She was unsure of what to think of this alien giving her head pats.

"Sir? If you wanted to pet me. You could have asked, to see if I was ok with it or not. I don't mind it; but please, ask a mare before you drag her on top of you. It's not very gentle-colt-like."

She shuffled, not finding his armor to be the most comfortable thing to lay on.

Taking this as her wanting more, 860 moved his hand behind her ears and began scratching there; this made her stop shuffling as her rear leg began to kick slightly.

He took notice of this display making him calculate her behavior.

'Strange; equine's here, act more like dogs than actual horses. Granted, I never interacted with a horse before arriving here. So I may be mistaken.'

Continuing to scratch her ear the equine did everything she could to keep this peaceful interaction going.

Eventually, the cell opened. And an equine peeked her head inside.

"Starshine, you're getting us a little worried out here." Said he female guard peeking in.

"Shush! I'm in paradise~" Starshine hissed, stretching out like a cat from the ear scratches, tail swishing.

"And here I thought, you were terrified to be alone with him." Remarked the second Guard.

To 860, they were speaking in the tongue he couldn't understand. 'What I would give to have Overwatch here so it could translate it.'

Gently pushing the mare off, she in return, whined in despair not wanting the ear scratches to end.

"Come on! Things were just getting good, you can't leave me hanging like that!" Starshine pleaded while the royal guard spoke up.

"It can't understand you, Princess Celestia tried and failed at a communication attempt; so if she failed you're not getting far, Starshine."

Sighing in dismay, she adjusted her wrinkled maid uniform before flicking her tail in annoyance.

"If you two didn't come in here to bother us I would be still getting scratches!" The pegasus mare huffed, stomping her hoof, pouting.

Similar to a foal not getting its way in an argument.

Requipping his helmet one-handed was easier said than done, but once completed. He just watched the horses argue, among themselves, until eventually, they redid his shackle. And then departed.

Taking the plate and cup, the maid Equine stopped in the doorway of the cell, looking back at 860 tail swishing, before fully leaving.

'Back into isolation.' Checking his internal clock, it was in the afternoon time range.

Glancing over the chains, 860 did try to break them again but failed.

'I have no idea, what these Equines have planned for me, but so far. They are providing me sustenance, and not attacking me. Possibly waiting for a moment of weakness from me, I might have to stay awake for longer periods; Sleep mode might need to be reduced, below recommended levels, For survival purposes.'

Luna POV

Cracking one eye lazily open, her vision was greeted by Celestia's sun, somehow leaking into Luna's darkened bedchamber. Making her grumble a few words of discomfort; rolling over she turned her back towards the warm sun before pain shot up her lower body.

Making her hiss, in slight pain as it reminded her of what was currently rotting within Canterlots hold.

Gradually sitting up Luna, carefully removed herself from the sheets and blanket that made her bed before walking toward her night-themed lavatory.

Going through a few drawers, Luna found what she had been searching for. A magical cream that aided in healing one's body after a fight.

"I haven't fought like that in years, not since that night," Luna said to Nopony in particular, jumping slightly once the cool gel was applied to her rear, making her shutter.

Gimping back towards her bed Luna laid across it, her blanket only covering her upper body.

While the magical cream sped up her recovery time, the night Princess glanced towards her bedroom clock to see how much time had passed from her sleeping.

This was a few hours earlier than her normal waking time. Sighing she ignited the longhorn she had and removed her covers, getting back up Luna equipped the royal regalia and left her room deciding to talk with Celestia about this creature.

Walking down the hallway, her gimp was less noticeable. Including the pain from her back had lessened.

Making walking less of a chore.

Arriving at the throne room, the guards immediately opened the large double doors upon her approach; entering the grand hall Luna spotted her sister surrounded by whiny and sycophantic courtiers.

Approaching made them turn their attention to Luna, thinking they could sway the younger sister of the kingdom; however, even though she was out of fashion by a good thousand years, Luna knew when a noble was trying to. Extract, more favor among the higher ranks of royalty.

Flaring her wings, Luna gave one command in the Canterlot voice.

"Leave the throne room!"

With four words, the night Princess made all of the nobles turn tail and bolt for the exit making her smile still watching them flee.

After the large double doors slammed unceremoniously. A sigh from behind the night-themed mare caught her attention.

Turning to look, Celestia's hoof was against her face. "I really don't want to say this, but I really needed a break from those nobles. They keep coming to me, with insignificant problems that they, themselves can fix."

"You are most welcome sister! I know how some courtiers can be a royal pain, but at least I know that fact hasn't changed, for a thousand years." Luna responded gently folding her wings back over her backside.

"But this wasn't the reason I have come, I wish to know how the alien is handling the dungeons," Luna said truthfully.

"I have requested to transfer him to a different solitary cell that at most holds a bed." This gave the younger princess pause, stepping towards the throne, Luna decided to voice her concerns.

"Why would you move that thing? It is extremely dangerous. And has killed and severely wounded two Royal Guards! Let alone it attacked me, and threw me through a wall of one of our subjects Home! Give it some old hay to rest on." Luna snarled,

Which made Celestia frown slightly, before speaking. "Luna that would have been fine to do a thousand years ago; but that has long since fallen out of fashion."

Snorting, Luna locked eyes with her sister. "That thing deserves such treatment! Not be pampered like a newborn foal!"

"Dear sister, how would you feel if we sent a diplomatic envoy towards a nation we never encountered before? They are apprehended on charges, and left to rot in a dark cell. With no official trial even made yet. For all we know he was apart of a diplomatic Envoy our actions now could mean war or peace for our two nations."

Thinking for a moment the young Alicorn answered. "Before his arrest, he did bury five of his fallen comrades, maybe I did act too hastily."

Nodding Celestia smiled. Finally, her younger sister caught on to what her eldest sister wanted to avoid. "I always told Mother and Father you had a quick and sharp mind. You just lack foresight, dear sister."

Folding her ears, Luna spoke up. " Then how do we fix what I had sabotaged? Do I need to offer, something of equal value?" Luna blushed, which made her older sister frown. Knowing what she was talking about.

"That won't be necessary, Sister, I believe a standard diplomatic approach may suffice." Just then a gentle knock reverberated off the main entrance to the throne room.

"Enter," Celestia called out, and shortly after a maid entered the room.

"Ah, Maid Starshine how did it go?" The Solar Princess inquired.

The maid bowed before speaking, the door closing behind her. "He didn't mind the Apple slices and bread I offered." The newly named Starshine stated, tail swishing behind her.

"Is there something, else you'd like to add?" Luna added watching her tail move seemingly on its own accord.

"U-uh he was very appreciative of what I offered. Your Highness." Starshine stammered, making both royals even more suspicious.

"Appreciative how?" This time Celestia took control of the questioning, and finally, she cracked.

Sighing, she spilled what transpired. "He had just finished the plate of food I offered him. I bent down to grab the dish to take back to be cleaned, and that's when he grabbed me. I feared for my life that I can not deny, but he simply patted my head."

Her tail continued to swish,

Thinking this would anger Luna, Celestia prepared to stop her but she didn't lash out. Seeing this as a good sign Celestia decided to ask the pressing question. "What happened after that? I see he didn't harm you or else you wouldn't be here."

"He scratched me behind the ears." The pegasus mare admitted a soft blush on her gray cheeks. She also took this moment to arise, seeing that talking with the two princesses while her face near the floor would be problematic.

Knowing of the feelings she was describing, Celestia nodded. "I understand, do you still wish to offer him food? If not I can assign another mare or stallion to the task."

The Solar princess offered but. Starshine refused, "No no! I'll take on the added response abilities, with no trouble; your Highness." Starshine quickly answered, wanting him all to herself for ear scratches.

Giving a soft smile, Celestia nodded. "Very well, I will inform the head maid of your new responsibilities in the meantime. Do take the rest of the day off you've earned it."

Nodding, the maid spoke up. "Thank you, your majesty, I won't let you down." She bowed one final time, before departing softly, closing the door behind her as she went.

Leaving the two monarchs alone with one another, turning to look over at Celestia, Luna spoke up. "Do you really think it could be trusted? What if it attacks our guards? Or that maid you've put in charge of feeding it?"

"If I am being truthful sister, we won't be sure until something happens. Therefore we need to be extra cautious when we deal with this creature or allow our subjects to do the same. In a few days, I hopefully shall receive a response from the dungeon master soon."

"Thank you for your time Sister, I will head back to my chambers and prepare to rule the night if you'll excuse me," Luna said, bowing her head towards her sister before leaving the throne room.

Entering her bedchamber, Luna removed the royal regalia and prepared to bathe to ease the soreness that was still there. 'I hope this will ease it, my magic isn't strong enough to dull it.'

Luna didn't want to admit it, but her magic was still weak but recovering. Possibly in a month, she will be at full strength again only time will tell.

Twilight POV

Twilight had just gotten back to the tree house they called home.

"Spike, did you enjoy the picnic?" Twilight asked while the baby dragon burped to answer her question.

"I know one thing, Applejack can make a mean Apple fritter!" Spike commented, releasing another burp.

"However, I think she should add gems to them now that would be perfect!" making Twilight shake her head.

"You didn't even eat that much today, why are you burping so much?" Twilight inquired.

Spike was going to respond until the last burp shot a scroll out hitting the purple mare in the face.

"Spike! That's gross. " Twilight grunted, reaching up to rub her face with a hoof.

"Eh. Sorry," Spike offered sheepishly, before picking up the scroll he opened the letter and coughed to clear his throat.

"My most faithful student, the creature my Sister Princess Luna had captured, is still very much alive. However, he is unable to communicate with us; I am wondering if you would be interested in helping establish a form of communication with him. Or even teach him our language; Reply at your earliest convenience. This is also not a royal command, do not feel pressured into agreeing. Signed, Princess Celestia."

This made Twilight overjoyed for the opportunity to be one of the first ponies to be allowed to open a way of conversation with this foreign entity, as a result, she began prancing around the library.

"Can you believe it, Spike! The Princess wants me to try and teach a foreign entity the Equestrian language!" The impact of the offer began to sink in making the lavender mare slightly panic at the aspect of failure.

"Wait! What if I fail? What if it's unable to learn, if I fail Celestia will have me sent back to magic kindergarten." She did it again, getting herself all worked up to the point of crying, Rolling his eyes Spike answered.

"Twilight you're overthinking it again; do you really think Celestia is going to send a fully grown mare to a place for fillies and colts?" Spike reasoned, trying to snap his caretaker out of her state of fear and panic.

Still, it wasn't enough to calm her fears. Scratching his chin from the corner of Twilight's vision the baby dragon received an idea. Scurrying off towards the kitchen, the ponies ear's swiveled in the direction of their kitchen.

Various clangs and other things falling were heard; until finally the familiar footfalls of her assistant were heard again.

Turning to look this time, she saw Spike holding two Liters of Ice cream; the one was her favorite flavor. Whipping her tears away Twilight hiccuped before answering.

"S-spike we're, did you get the bits for that ice cream?" Questioned Twilight, she had never given him bits. Thinking he wasn't trustworthy with the money they earned or were sent.

Smiling nervously, he spoke the truth. "I did a few odd jobs for Applejack and Rarity both had paid me as a thank you."

Offering her a spoon she took it with her telekinesis. With a free claw, Spike popped the lid off his liter of ice cream before sliding hers over.

Looking at the lid to confirm it was her favorite style of ice cream. Made her chuckle, "Did you make sure they added extra Hay bits?" Twilight asked through a sniffle.

Spike was about to take a bite of his spoonful before nodding. "Yep! Even made sure they put extra rose petals just for you."

Smiling at her assistant, Twilight followed in opening her ice cream and slowly began to eat it.

"You never cease to amaze me, Spike," Twilight admitted before taking another big bite of her prized ice cream.

"Uh huh; but what about the letter? I mean, are you going to accept what the Princess offered?"

Giving it some thought Twilight chewed on a few rose petals, thinking on what to do."

"Mm, we don't have anything interesting going on here in Ponyville might as well right? Do you think the Princess would care if we tried one a week, maybe three times?"

The baby dragon just shrugged. "You know you are able to ask her, right Twilight?" Spike asked.

"Oh, maybe we should write back! We kept her waiting long enough." This made the baby dragon groan in slight annoyance no longer able to eat his ice cream in peace.

Glancing towards him Spike gave a defeated sigh before putting his ice cream down on the table in the center of the library.

"Ok, give me a moment."

Returning a few moments later with a paper and quill and some ink, Spike prepared for what Twilight had to say.

Coughing to clear her throat, Twilight began to speak.

"Dear, Princess Celestia I hope this letter does not keep you from resting but I wish to inform you of my decision; I Twilight Sparkle, formally accept the task of teaching this creature our language, I shall begin at the earliest convenience. I also thank you for this opportunity."

Seeing that she was done Spike decided to add a PS.

'Twilight, made me stop eating my ice cream to write this.'

Looking it over to confirm everything she wanted was indeed on the scroll, Spike sealed the letter and set it off with dragon flame.

"Am I free to go back to eating my ice cream Twilight?" The baby dragon asked while she giggled and nodded.

"Of course, Spike, you're free to go."

Without even finishing her sentence the young dragon grabbed his ice cream and ran for the kitchen.

"Don't spill it! If you do, you'll have to clean it up!" Twilight warned, but he just began housing it at the kitchen table.

Sighing, Twilight reclosed her ice cream and without much issue floated it along with the spoon into the kitchen.

After putting her spoon in the sink and, ice cream in the freezer, she got back to her hooves and made her way towards their shared bedroom.

'If I start tomorrow or any time at all that day, I'm going to need all the sleep I can get! I hope he can keep up. Once we can speak together I'm not holding back with any of the questions!' Twilight decreed laying onto her bed and getting ready for sleep.

Author's Note

Chapter four is made! Sorry for the lack of writing, I'm about to move in a few days so more or less all story writing is on hold.

Also, I hope you guys enjoyed your Memorial Day for my American story readers. 🫡🫡🫡

But please enjoy the chapter! And remember if you find any mistakes notify me down in the comments or in PM's!