Warsong: Primordial Conflict

Triad Zebrica Main HQ

The alarms were blaring loudly on the off shore Triad base, nestled between two jagged mountains with a forgotten city below. The fortress facility was up in flames, smoke bellowing clearly as far as the next main town of Zebrica over. Was it a malfunction? A misfire? The onlookers from afar were unsure.

The citizens pointed and muttered to each other plenty of speculations, yet nothing conclusive. One thing that they all knew, however. Their tormentors were suffering something tremendous. It was solidified with another eruption of fire followed by a loud rumble of an explosion that shook the zebra to their core. For years, the Triad had been making it difficult for coast merchants to trade overseas with them. Having to go under plenty of violations of privacy just to ship even a basket of bananas.

All their financial troubles and invasions of privacy were in fact due to that eye sore of a fortress. Yet, regardless of protests and speaking out, the current leader of the capitol, with the support from R.I.Z.A., had made it clear that no opposition is to be granted nor tolerated with their neighbors as to keep the peace treaty from being broken. With the confusion and uncertainty sinking in with the few who were cheering for the destruction of the fortress, no zebra noticed the three figures flying high overhead, using the clouds for cover.

Cloudchaser and Flitter held onto Scribble as the three made their way over to the facility, having an understanding of what is going on. Flitter scanned the area as they got closer and spotted a safe place to land.

“Down this way!” She called out. The two sisters banked carefully as to not lose hold of Scribble. As they descended onto what appeared to be a landing platform, Silver Scribble adjusted his newly acquired outfit. A white lab coat and a jump suite that the ex-Exiles would use for the researching team with some small tweaks of ballistic padding and plating protection. The two sisters had also dawned light apparel provided by the ex-Exiles on their mission to find the heir.

They spent a good week searching for any clues. It wasn’t until recently had they figured it out. And of course, that is not the only reason they are here. Cloudchaser adjusted Hercules’s gauntlet on her hoof, the pegasus mare having spent her free time adjusting to the power behind it. She was still unable to use it fully, but the zebra mare she saved back during the Stratadon attack happened to be a brilliant arcane scientist. She tweaked the output and energy of the gauntlet enough to give Cloudchaser enough force to buck an alicron across several buckball yards with minimal injury to herself.

Flitter was also given a highly advance compact bow that had the ability to charge the tips with arcane energy, similar to the arcane bullets that the world had gradually began distributing. Another modification to it had it able to be compatible with any brand of arrow, be it natural or hoof made. The only down side is the amount of finesse and skill needed to even pull the string back.

This took several zebra by surprise when she managed to hit several targets in the bullseye without breaking a sweat. Scribble, however, denied anything the ex-Exiles had salvaged. Just a surplus of rocks for himself. When a zebra mare had managed to salvage out a prototype hoof glove that later, when they happened upon several files of research papers, did they learn that the glove’s properties were to draw in magic and store it as a way for the Triad to freely change their archaic properties of their current ammunition.

This made Scribble question that the surplus of resources the Triad seemed to have had actually begun to dry out a little, forcing them to use alternate methods. But that was only a theory as the Triad were bountiful in both ponies and tech. Scribble studied the amount of destruction currently around them. The landing area was empty, save for the supply crates scattered around. Cloudchaser sighed.

“We certainly have our work cut out for us. How does Fie even do it?” She asked. Flitter smiled.

“Perhaps when we find her, you can ask her yourself, sis. That’s all who you seem to be thinking about lately.” She teased. Cloudchaser flushed and adjusted the gauntlet shyly.

“I’m… just as worried as Thi is about her. But Fie would also kill me if Thi ends up being hurt or worse.” She said. Scribble shook his head as he began to trot forward, the sisters hovering next to him.

“I don’t think you have to worry about that. Fie would probably go to hell just to tell her how stupid she was.” He said stoically. Cloudchaser chuckled.

“Fair enough. Speaking of.” She said, her tone turning grim as they had rounded the corner. Their eyes fell onto the Triad. The ponies ragged and limp in every way you could imagine. Arc shells were littered around the area, charred marks marking heavier weaponry in play dotting the walls and lookouts. Flitter floated over to a fallen Triad and examined the empty potion bottles on the ground. One was even creatively used against a Triad that Flitter had wished she didn’t witness just now.

“She’s really gone off the deep end…” Flitter commented out loud. Cloudchaser scanned the further far off parts of the facility.

“She could be anywhere in this facility! How is she so quick?!” Cloudchaser exclaimed in befuddlement. Scribble trotted forward and motioned to them.

“Let’s keep looking.” He said. The sisters nodded and followed Scribble into the building. Inside, they were greeted with plenty of destruction and mayhem. The three were used to the sights by now, but it still bothered them how much one pony could do so much collateral. They were beginning to sympathize with the Triad’s fear. The further they went, the more they ran across several Triad trying to pull themselves together, only having to knock them unconscious and move them aside.

The three eventually found themselves heading across a bridge. Two metal behemoths were ablaze on both ends of the bridge along with several Triads on the ground. They turned the corner upon entering the next area, finding the courtyard in as much a similar state as the last. The next area was no different. Each place they passed, nothing was left untouched.

Scribble finally began to break his stoicism when they came across a massive and bulky cylindrical robot that was armed to the teeth in artillery, completely destroyed and lit ablaze.

“And I thought Fie had a lot of energy…” he said with a disturbed and concerned look. “There is no way she did all of this in one go.”

“Scribble!” Flitter called out. Scribble and Cloudchaser moved over to her and she pointed at what appeared to be a makeshift camp sight. “She rested here for sure. And look at this.” She took an arrow and stabbed it into the fire place. “I… sure hope she only used their outfits and not…” Scribble and Cloudchaser’s expression darkened.

“We have to get to her now. R.I.Z.A. Had everything ready and she’s just…” Scribble sighed in frustration. “Doesn’t she care at all…?” Flitter and Cloudchaser exchanged worried glances. Things certainly had changed for them all. With Fie’s disappearance, it was a rather hellish week of planning and managing relations. Neither of the three had a chance to really gather their thoughts. The two sisters didn’t say it, this was taking a massive toll on Scribble. And Cloudchaser understood.

Scribble took a moment to rub his muzzle in frustration before nodding to the sisters.

“Let’s go.” He said. The three continued their progress through the facility. It took them a couple of hours to finally reach what would be the main facility. Based on the destruction they came across, it was pretty recent. Cloudchaser, Flitter and Scribble steeled themselves. It was time to stop Thi Billet.

Thi Billet’s POV

“Incoming!!” A Triad called out. It was a little too late. An arc missile struck near the Triad, sending them flying away from a colorful explosion. I moved to the next, the Triad fleeing in fear and terror. I quickly whipped out my dual arc pistols and pelted a fuel tank they had laying next to a hangar of metal behemoths. I was nearly knocked off my hooves as the whole line ignited in a chain reaction. I calmly shifted my gaze, spying the glints in the lookout towers.

I quickly dove to cover and brought out another arc launcher, striking the tower at the base with enough force from the missile to knock it down. I dropped the arc launcher and flicked my head down, springing over the area and aiming down at the Triad in the process.

Bam bam bam bam bam

They fell. I rolled upon landing and kicked up an arc machine rifle, calmly walking straight into the next line of Triad to oppose me.

Ra-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta

I released the mag and chucked it at an approaching Triad with a knife, throwing them off their strike. I locked my hoof around the foreleg and brought them around onto the ground, catching the knife.

Shick shick

I quickly sprang to my hooves, rolling to avoid the arc fire of the next wave of Triad. I tripped and used one as a shield, returning fire with their own. Spending the ammunition fully, I took the pony by the neck.

Crack.

I let the pony fall. Something exploded close by, toppling a wall and the lookout tower next to it and landing on several fleeing Triad ponies. Yet, I remained focused. My sights set on something else. The intel I managed to gather from my own excavation of the temple led me here. An obvious choice I should have made before. And thankfully, no pony was holding me back this time.

I winced and swayed as the adrenaline was starting to leave me. I growled, reaching into the pouch I managed to take from the Exiles, I pulled out an inhaler and with a couple of puffs, I felt a burst of energy and renewed adrenaline. However, I ended up vomiting at my hooves. The stuff inside these things were strong, but damn did it work so well. Oh well. It’s not like the food I had earlier was anything to satisfy. I took out a bottle of grandma’s secret recipe and chugged the bottle, tossing it aside when I finished.

I let out a sigh of relief, feeling the effects of the inhaler even out. I quickly reloaded my weapons and with my magic, hoisted an arc launcher over my back and strapping it on. After I did so, I noticed a Triad pony quickly batting at their uniform as they had caught fire from the inferno slowly spreading out into the area. I shifted my look before holding up my arc pistol, twirling it in my magic.

The Triad gave a sigh of relief from having put out the fire before looking up and screaming, falling onto their haunches and scrambling away from me. I eyed the pony coldly as I stepped closer and closer to them.

“Give me the keycard into the facility.” I said. The pony stared at me in wide eyed fear. I whipped my arc pistol in front of me, aiming it. “I wasn’t asking.” The pony shakily reached over to their uniform and dug through it. When they withdrew a red keycard and tossed it down at my hooves, I took it in my magic.

Bam bam

I mindlessly holstered my pistol and walked over to the metal sealed door. With a quick swipe of the card, the door began to open. I made my way further into the facility, glad that there was no more Triad opposition to stop me. As I made it out into the lobby, I was then greeted with a massive screen over the center of the room. The static flicked to life and the face of a Triad general scowled down at me.

“The ‘hero’ of the hour.” The voice echoed from the speakers. I kept my focus and walked down the steps to face the screen. “Such irony following the suffocating smell of blood and smoke.” I narrowed my look. “How many lives have you’ve taken over the years of being our number one? How many families are left weeping for them to come home? How many more must be taken to fulfill this ire you call justice?”

“Until Moonlight Sonata’s head is rolling off the guillotine with all of Equestria watching.” I replied. The general scoffed.

“Childish. A little filly playing make believe. Answer me this, Thi Billet. In what world do you see yourself the hero? What drives you to continue to throw yourself into the hellfire of our banner? What is and who is, Thi Billet?” I frowned.

“Shut up and get your ugly mug out here. I have questions about the heir of Roam.” I stated. “I know you are keeping her held here. You Triad always seem to keep losing papers.” The Triad general shifted slightly in his chair.

“The heir. Yes. She is quite remarkable. Willing to side with us for her kin. Truly admirable that it put even General Lilac to tears.” The general grinned. “Sincerely.” I growled and whipped out my pistol, firing a single bullet into the screen. It crackled and sparked. But it then whirred loudly and faced me with a new screen, the Triad general unfazed by my action. “Weren’t you raised better than to interrupt an adult?” The general chuckled and made a gesture as if he had made a small error in his thinking. “Of course, you weren’t raised properly. Spent most of your days out of the house.

“And yet, it seems you are overdue for a time out. I’m giving you one last chance to give up your ire, Thi Billet. You’ve made a clear point and enough damages to allow Zebrica to salvage and build a utopia. But of course, you aren’t really here for the heir, nor the creatures of Zebrica, are you? I can see it in your eyes. The lost filly crying for her friend. Must have been real quiet when the fire left, hasn’t it?” That struck a nerve.

I whipped out the arc launcher and fired at the screen, destroying the set up entirely as the massive screens fell and crashed into the ground. I didn’t realize I was having a bit of trouble breathing. I calmed myself and shifted the launcher onto my back as I walked forward to the destruction. I could still make out the fuzzy image of the general. Just then, the floor beneath me began to open up. I quickly stepped onto one side as the destroyed screens fell into the hole.

Rising from the opened floor was a mound of what appeared to be scrap and other platings armoring the chassis of a robot. This one was taller and not an alicron. It stood on bipedal pistons with three clamps for feet, a sleek but bulky tinted cock pit hiding the pilot inside. On its’ shoulders were massive boxes that I am assuming is lined to the brim with missiles. From the sides, compartments opened up and out came a strange looking tesla coil that crackled with lightning. The other is what appeared to be a glowing heated chainsaw like arm.

I rose a brow.

“Really?” I asked unamused. “I’m getting tired of your robots…” The general’s face appeared upon the cockpit, grinning.

“Would you prefer the countless ponies you’ve slaughtered? I figured you needed a break from blood.” He said calmly. I felt a nerve snap. I whipped my arc launcher around and fired two at one of the missile compartments. Yet, the bipedal robot boosted to the side, avoiding the projectiles before bringing the tesla arm back and striking the ground.

I felt a sudden jolt shoot through me, causing me to squeeze the trigger of the launcher and firing the remaining bolts out into a window, creating a display of fire works. When the jolt passed, I fell to my stomach, the launcher sliding away from me. I pushed myself off the ground, still feeling tingly from the shock.

“You certainly live up to your reputation. Most would have had a heart attack then and there.” The general chuckled. I grit my teeth and withdrew my dual arc pistols.

“I grow tired of this! Time to put you in the ground.” I glared at the robot. It clashed the coil and the heated arm together, creating a spark and revved its’ engines. It was so fast I almost wasn’t able to react. Yet, I instinctively flicked my head down and sailed over the robot. I rolled to my hooves and began to gallop, firing back at the machine. I aimed for the cockpit, the bullets ricochetting away.

“You have to do better than that.” The general taunted. I growled and flicked my head down again. The robot spun and skated around me, the compartments opening and a barrage of small arcane bolts sailed and snaked towards me.

“Shit!” I exclaimed. The bolts exploded around me, causing me to lose my momentum and I rolled along the ground, feeling the burn of having being grazed by a couple of them. I quickly pulled out a pition and drank it, feeling the wounds mend themselves before spinning my arc pistols, catching them and galloping back into the fight.

The robot swung its’ arms in an attempt to bludgeon or cut. I bounced and galloped under, around and above the robot, trying to find a good opening. Unfortunately, the plating seemed to be top grade arc bullet proof. It was only when it struck the ground to kill me and got stuck did I have an idea. I smirked and galloped towards the robot. It removed its’ tesla arm from the ground and began to swing its’ heated chainsaw. With some quick reactions, I flipped and twirled my body, nearly grazing the blade.

Good news was that I was close enough for the chainsaw to strike the side of the robot by itself. Bad news is that it didn’t scratch the plating. I swore loudly and sprang away as it spun itself around to hit me with the coil. I felt the electricity shock me in the chin as I backflipped and landed deftly, aiming my pistols. The general laughed in a low voice.

“How Icarus flew too high to the sun. Do not worry so much, filly. All your pain and suffering will leave you once I put you to bed.” He said coldly. I grit my teeth, stepping backwards. I have to think of something. Think, Thi! The Triad always have some sort of flaws in their design! How is this any different?! I racked my brain, but I couldn’t think of anything. All of a sudden, the adrenaline left me. I reached into the pouch, only to find I was out of the inhalers and my potion down to one bottle.

The robot stamped over to me, the size of it looming over.

“Goodnight, Thi Billet.” The general spoke. I glanced over my shoulder, seeing the broken window that led out and over to the sea area. I grinned and looked back at the robot.

“Nah. My bed time is way later than that. I still have plenty left in me to party.” I replied. The robot brought up both arms. In a blink of an eye, the robot was then sent away, toppling over onto its’ side with a an accompanied loud crash. I blinked in confusion. In the robot’s place was Cloudchaser. Her hoof crackling with lightning. She shook her hoof and met my look. “Cloudchaser…?” I asked. She narrowed her eyes at me before focusing back on the robot that boosted itself upright. When it took a step forward, it was then struck in the cockpit by an exploding arrow, sending it stumbling backwards onto its’ back. I looked over and saw Flitter knock another arrow and ready herself next to Cloudchaser. Scribble stepped down from the steps, stoically facing the robot as he met up with us. I looked between them in concern.

“Did you manage to find the heir?” I asked. Scribble side eyed me coldly and said nothing. I snorted in annoyance. I didn’t need their help. They were supposed to be looking for the heir. The robot boosted itself back up. Yet, whatever Cloudchaser and Flitter struck it with, the robot seemed perfectly fine, save for the shake and jitter.

“Tsk… How unpleasantly rude.” The general spoke. “No matter. Operations are still functional. It’s only a matter of time.” The robot skated itself into the center of the room, lowering itself and began to transform. The two legs combining to make a singular stand pillar, the compartments extending and making the arms longer. The ground began to rumble and shake. The ceiling opened up and we began to ascend upward. We looked around as we saw massive towers curve towards us in an asymmetrical pattern, crackling at the tips with energy.

I looked back at the robot to see it raise both arms into the air and the towers began to shoot archaic magical energy into them. The general chuckled.

“State of the art star metal materials. The hardest metal know to equestrian kind. The properties able to harness all forms of magic, even in theories. Bare witness to the testament of the Triad’s advancement! The future of our proud land!” We readied ourselves as the massive robot brought its’ arms back, primed to attack. We scattered as it brought down the coil. Scribble and I screaming in pain as the volts shot through us.

Before we could hit the ground, Cloudchaser and Flitter sprang into action, boosting us away from the follow up or arcane fire from the robot. At the same time, it launched arcane bolts that hissed and spiraled around the area, catching all of us in a graze of lights and explosions. Through all this, the general was laughing. Cloudchaser pushed herself up off the ground and growled. Like a rocket, she sailed towards to the robot and struck it hard with the gauntlet.

It was enough to cause the robot to topple, only to spring back and swat Cloudchaser into the ground, causing her to bounce a couple of times and stop after a roll. Flitter and Scribble pelted it with their own attacks, but nothing scratched it. The heated chainsaw came around and Scribble had to pull Flitter down onto the ground to avoid having her head cut off. As they scrambled to their hooves, the arm was brought back around and struck the ground between them, sending them away from each other and hitting the ground hard.

I roared angrily, firing my pistols up at the robot. The bullets were deflected. I suddenly began to feel woozy. The robot faced me as I tripped and fell onto my stomach, panting. My body was suddenly feeling hot.

“Awww. All tuckered out? You’ve been playing too much, little filly. You should really rest.” The general spoke with a low laugh. “General Lilac will be pleased when I tell her the good news about this. So much so, she’ll overlook the damages you’ve made. A win-win for everypony.” I shakily pushed myself off the ground, panting. All the energy having left me.

‘Dammit… not here…’ I cursed under my breath. I then looked up to the robot, bracing myself for the eventual fate of my consequences. That was, until I noticed something glinting behind the robot in the sky. I blinked and looked to see that the others had noticed it as well. It was a comet. And it was approaching us fast.

The robot paused in its’ strike, having taken notice of us looking past it. It then spun around and looked up. The general’s voice spoke.

“What in the…?” He said. In a blink of an eye, the comet crashed directly at the pedestal legs, shattering everything underneath it. Time slowed and I saw, to my utter shock and bafflement, Quiet Fire, clearly in a state of panic as she crashed behind us, sending us off our hooves and rolling to the other side. Time sped up as the robot crashed hard into the ground, creating a small crater underneath it next to the even smaller one next to it.

The dust cleared and we saw in the smaller crater a pair of hind legs, flailing in an attempt to pull herself from the ground. We were speechless.

Two Hours Earlier

Rainbow Dash, Fickle and I were approaching Manehatten. Off in the distance, we could see Cloudsdale floating over the sea. We glided casually, feeling the spring wind in our manes. Fickle was quiet. But as we soared over Rainbow Falls, that’s when she spoke up.

“Why?” She asked. I blinked and looked over my shoulder.

“Huh?” I replied. Fickle bowed her head.

“Why are you… why did you do all of that?” She asked. I was a little confused as to what she meant until I realized what she meant.

“I wanted to show you your second chance.” I said with a small smile. Fickle stopped in her flight forcing Rainbow Dash and I to stop and face her.

“But… after all I did? What Tenebres did? You still think… I have any chance with Equestria?” She asked. Rainbow and I exchanged glances. Rainbow motioned that it was my ordeal and I nodded.

“Well, I won’t sugar coat it. We are still considered exiles to Equestria, even if the princesses vouch for us. But you have to think about what we are doing and how we are able to do it.” I replied. “You’re still just a filly, but that just means you still have much left to experience.” I smiled. “Just looking into your eyes, I can see all the doubt, uncertainty and sadness from years of pain. As crazy as it sounds, that’s how I’m usually able to tell the character of certain creatures.” I then chuckled. “Not one hundred percent correct on my guesses. But being a bit of a spaz in questioning tends to net me my answers.”

I floated over to Fickle and put a reassuring hoof on her shoulder. “You don’t need to share it when you aren’t ready. I won’t think any less of you. Tenebres’s influence is mostly to blame. And that is why I believe that you are able to manage full control of yourself. You know the shadows better than anypony else. So, why not make something that we fear into something that we can respect?” Fickle didn’t respond. She avoided my gaze, rubbing her foreleg nervously.

“I… I want to believe you… but…” She began. Rainbow Dash smirked.

“You’ve been hanging in the shadows for too long. Just look at all of this!” She said. Fickle blinked in confusion at her. Rainbow pointed to the horizon and around us. Fickle looked around.

“The… sky?” She asked. Rainbow chuckled.

“More than that. When I’m up in the air, I feel like I’m on cloud nine. Nothing holding me back and nothing to stop me from being me. And when I’m just wanting to relax, I find a nice cloud to nap on and just feel the wind in my mane.” Rainbow took a deep breath and exhaled in satisfaction. I smiled.

“What Dash is trying to say is that everypony has a certain way of enjoying themselves even in the harsh realities of responsibility and strife. Her’s is the sky and mine is… well… I guess helping ponies now.” Fickle looked at me.

“But… why keep helping them if they are just going to… hurt you…” she faltered. I pat my chest with a grin.

“Because I’m dumb.” I said. Fickle blinked and Rainbow Dash rubbed the back of her head.

“Err… that’s not very helpful, Fie.” Rainbow Dash spoke. I chuckled and waved a hoof.

“Let me finish.” I said. “Yes, I’m dumb. Because I ignore what the ponies say about me, even if it nips me in the back of my mind. Usually, I would just wallow under a bottle and sleep. But ever since going on this journey, I’ve began to realize something a bit more about myself than I thought.” I floated away a bit and looked towards Cloudsdale. “I have friends. Outside and within. And because of that, I can rely on them to keep me grounded from my own stupidity.” Rainbow snorted.

“Yet you’re still going through with your rocket plan?” She asked. I nodded.

“Exactly!” I replied. Fickle gave me a concerned look. I then began to giggle and pointed at her. “See? There is something inside of you that makes you worry about others.” Fickle balked and turned away.

“N-no… I’m just… rethinking this.” She stated. I floated over to her and put a reassuring hoof around her.

“C’mon. I know five others who would be more than happy to accept you. They are just as different as you, yet also accepting.” I winked. “Trust me on this.” Fickle didn’t meet my look. Though, seeing her lips move under her breath, my lip reading skills advanced a level.

“What am I even doing…?” She muttered under her breath. I turned back around. She’ll come around eventually. It’ll take a while, but I’m hoping the others will show her she isn’t alone. We continued our way to Manehatten, the city fast approaching. It has felt like ages since I’ve been back here. And from the looks of it, the building that had been destroyed was beginning to rebuild slowly. Rainbow Dash suddenly stopped and I nearly bumped into her. She looked around, her look serious.

“What’s wrong?” I asked. I used Din’s eyes and looked around. Unfortunately, I couldn’t see what Rainbow Dash had noticed. Not until a purple blur zipped up in front of me, leaving a smoky trail behind it. We coughed and gagged, waving away the smoke before Rainbow Dash pushed me aside and flew backwards to avoid being struck by another purple blur. I quickly corrected myself and withdrew my staff. Fickle kept close to me as several purple blurs began to zip and spiral around us.

Then, there was a loud crack of thunder and we looked up to see a formation of pegasi speeding towards us. Rainbow Dash avoided being flown over.

“Hey!! Cut it out!! Who’s authorizing this?!” Rainbow Dash shouted. I pulled Fickle with me to avoid two purple blurs zipping by. Then, the several purple blurs shot upward from underneath us and surrounded us. Their attire was similar to the Wonderbolts, yet the colors were purple and black. Rainbow Dash glared at them. “What in Celestia’s name are you doing?!” She asked again. One of the pegasi floated forward and pointed at Fickle and I.

“Move aside, Wonderbolt! Or else we’ll have to take you in as well!” The lead mare said. Rainbow Dash looked challengingly at them.

“Oh yeah? Do you realize who you are saying that too? Who ordered this?” She replied.

“That is not the concern of a Wonderbolt harboring a wanted fugitive! That is treason enough to have you hanged!” Another pegasi stated. Rainbow Dash growled.

“Rainbow Dash. Under orders of Princess Twilight Sparkle herself, I am to escort Quiet Fire and all guests to their destination. Interfering an official order from royalty is punishable by treason itself. But that doesn’t seem to concern criminals like you Shadowbolts.” She retorted. The first Shadowbolt mare began to chuckle.

“Oh yeah? Well, Princess Celestia seems to think otherwise. We don’t take orders from the Princess of Friendship.” She grinned. Rainbow Dash rose a brow.

“But she is Celestia’s student. Directly interfering with the Princess of Friendship is also directly interfering with Princess Celestia, don’t you think.” She replied coolly. I was impressed with Rainbow Dash. She is keeping a level head right now. Usually she would boast and challenge the Shadowbolts. The mare seemed to back down a bit. She then turned to the other Shadowbolt next to her.

“Radio in command. Let’s see if the credentials matter.” She ordered. The stallion put a hoof to his ear.

“SB-7 to command. We have intercepted a Wonderbolt by the name of Rainbow Dash. Saying she’s escorting the Fire Demon and a filly under orders of the Princess of Friendship. How shall we proceed?” He asked. I narrowed my look. I could see the Shadowbolts eye me under their insect like visors. Din chuckled.

I’m just waiting for one of them to try. She grinned.

‘Easy, girl. Let’s not overcomplicate our matter.’ I told her. The stallion nodded before looking to the mare.

“Seems Captain Cross wants to meet us here.” He said. The mare crossed her forelegs and sighed.

“Well, you heard him. You aren’t going anywhere till the Captain shows up.” She said. Rainbow Dash snorted.

“Good choice. Not that you didn’t have any to begin with.” She grinned. I noticed this struck a nerve with several of the Shadowbolts around us as they shifted their spiteful gaze on her. I slumped.

‘Perhaps I should have not held you down.’ I thought to Din.

Hmph. Been there, done that. she retorted. It took five minutes before we were greeted by a surprisingly tall and built stallion in a sharper Shadowbolt outfit. If we were anypony else, we’d be greatly intimidated. Bulk Biceps may have the muscles, but this stallion looked leaner. He removed his goggles to eye us.

“You’re Rainbow Dash? Captain Spitfire’s wing pony, eh?” He commented. Rainbow glared at him.

“And you are?” She asked.

“A name isn’t important. What you do need to know is that I am the Captain of this troop. They are merely doing what they are told to do.” He said. Rainbow frowned.

“They should have at least recognized who they were intercepting. Especially if they knew the ‘Fire Demon’ was here.” She said. The Shadowbolt Captain smirked.

“Frankly, the status of Wonderbolts do not apply to us. It’s one of the perks of being… ‘considerate’ to our ponies of Equestria.” He said.

“Then you should know how much I’m being considerate right now.” I chimed in. Everypony looked to me. “You won’t win.” The captain nodded.

“But you are no demon either. We know about your exploits. You aren’t heartless.” He said. This took me a little by surprise. “Don’t go thinking statuses matter to us. We are fully aware of our mission and the ponies we intercept. What I want to know is why are you back and how can we get you to leave?” I shifted my frown.

“Certain happenstances, unfortunately. In fact, I’m on my way to meet up with the other Power Elements to discuss things for the sake of our realm before taking off.” I replied. “So, it’s best you keep your distance. My stay isn’t long anyway.” The stallion studied me before crossing his forelegs.

“Don’t make our job harder than it has to. Turn yourself over to Cloudsdale and they can discuss with you your privilege.” He said.

“Privilege?!” Rainbow Dash shouted. “Pot meet kettle! I don’t know who thought giving criminals to Cloudsdale military rights to be the ones to make a call!” The Shadowbolt scoffed.

“Her majesty herself. Granted we are on a leash, yet we are no different, wouldn’t you agree Wonderbolt?” He rose a brow in challenge. Rainbow was about to speak when I floated in front of them.

“Enough. Rainbow Dash, don’t make it harder for yourself right now.” I said to her. Rainbow Dash growled and glared at the Shadowbolt. I then met his gaze. "Alright. I have one condition though. Since I'm going to be turning myself in, then you'd have the curtesy of allowing me to relay information to the other power elements. I am needed for the sake of the realm after all." I said.

"Hmph. We'll think about that once you are taken before Cloudsdale courts." The mare Shadowbolt said. The captain, however, stuck out a hoof to stop her and she looked shocked by the gesture. "Captain?" She asked.

"At ease. She is right. While statuses are not important to the mission at hand, Equestria's Champion, regardless of vilification, is needed for our survival. Very well, Quiet Fire. However, we will be observing the conversation. Then after, you are to come with us to Cloudsdale for detainment." He said. Rainbow Dash made several noises in protest before motioning at me.

"Are you kidding me!?! She's supposed to be stopping a war on top of saving our hides!! You're really going to risk Equestria at war with Pony Land over some damned protocol?!?" Rainbow exclaimed in anger. I held out a hoof to Rainbow and gave her a reassuring smile.

"You gotta' think about it from their hooves, Dash. They maybe criminals, but just like us, they are ponies. Same with the ones over in Pony Land. Things are always going to be grey when ideals are conflicted with duty and order. Equestria is also fighting for the same peace and balance I've..." I looked at Fickle before returning my look to her. "We've been tasked to do. We weren't given a choice. But the Shadowbolts were. In exchange for whatever freedom they can grasp on, they chose it. And that freedom is allowing them to fight for the betterment of Equestria, even if they have to get their hooves dirty." I then lowered my head. I felt sad suddenly. Thi Billet flashed into my mind. "There are ponies that the Shadowbolts probably cherish more than anything in this world. We can't take that away from them." Rainbow Dash looked at me sadly.

"Fie..." She began. I then made a small nod and faced the captain.

"I'll comply with your orders. All I ask is that I prepare something in advance that'll better our fight against Pony Land." I said. Din hummed, a grin forming on her muzzle. The captain was quiet for a moment. He placed his goggles back on his face and nodded.

"Very well. Make it quick." He said. I noticed the Shadowbolt mare next to him hesitate a bit. Taking a quick glance, there were a lot of mixed looks from the stoicism the Shadowbolts tried to put on. I then turned to Fickle and nodded to her.

"C'mon, Fickle. Let's go meet the others." I said. Fickle had been stunned from this. She blinked out of her stupor and nodded slowly. We then descended down towards the coast of Manehatten. The cool breeze blew through our manes, accompanied by the salty smell of the ocean. Hard to believe that it was only a month ago that we had discovered a Triad operation and a Kelpie attack here. I stepped forward and closed my eyes. Opening them, I found myself next to Din. I looked at her. 'How far away are they?' I asked her. Din stayed facing ahead.

Close enough. Allow me. She then stood up and took a deep breath. What she did next had me completely taken aback and having to rub my ears out from the ringing. Rise and shine, troglodytes!! Get your asses over here!! I winced as I tried to stop the ringing in my ear. I then noticed several flashes of light in the distance. When I blinked, I found myself back on the shore. No pony seemed to realize Din had called them. Save for the fact that Tenebres had managed to rise up from Fickle's shadow and stood behind her, looking rather unpleased and staring daggers at me. Din had formed next to me, her grin showing her sharp teeth and wide-eyed manic look. I was about to say something when several Shadowbolts began to mutter in surprise. I looked outward to the ocean, seeing flashes of faraway stars blinking. They then got closer and headed straight towards us.

The beach around us erupted. From the impacts rose the vessels of the power elements. All of them looking shocked and confused by the sudden arrival. Katlyn, the abyssinian captain, looked at me after patting herself to make sure she was in one piece.

"What just... happened?" She asked.

"Fie!" I heard a voice say. I turned and found myself being scooped up into a hug by a griffon. I groaned at the tight hug and did my best to smile.

"N-nice to... see you too... Sharp Eye..." I grunted. The griffon let me go and helped me steady.

"When are ya' goin' ta' call me Gwyen?" She asked. "Why, it's been ages. 'Eard a lot of what's been goin' on. Glad ta' see ya' in one piece." I smiled before looking to the others. Zalas held onto her staff and nodded. A small snake slithered around her and perched itself on her shoulder.

"Seems like Quetzalcoatl is doing fine." I commented. Zalas smiled.

"Sssslept like a log." She hissed. I then noticed Steel Heart roll her neck and crossed her muscular arms calmly, nodding.

"Aye. Tis been a while, lass. How ya' farin'?" Katlyn said. "And what even happened?" I nodded.

"A lot has happened. Let's just say, things are starting to switch up. And not in the best way for Ouroboros." I said. Suddenly, water from the ocean slithered out and form an alicorn. Aquarius shifted slightly as she then focused her gaze on Zalas. From a passing cloud a small funnel swirled down and when it touched the beach, kicking up a torrent of sand in the process, Ventus stood and unfurled her wings, dispersing the sand. The sand that was dispersed then flowed around us and over to Gwyen, the sand rising up as well and taking the shape of Gaia. She scraped the ground and met my gaze.

Pray tell. What has happened to the serpent? Gaia asked. Was that... actual genuine curiosity? I shook away my slight stupor before nodding.

"As you all remember, Ouroboros had given you borrowed power from him in an attempt to wage a contest against Din and I. Of course, that backfired tremendously, allowing all of the power elements to safely disengage from the World Serpent's bylaws. This means several things. You all are free to live out how you want to. Save that you follow several natural bylaws that your Creation Mother had in place. And if any of them are broken, well, you answer to Din." I paused a bit, gauging the reactions from everycreature. The power elements remained stoic and calm. "Another thing is that now with six of us together, that just leaves the matter of Lux and her vessel. I have a good hunch that I'll find her in Pony Land. As for the vessel... I'm afraid it might be insanely tricky as she maybe the cause of Equestria's current conflict. In our usual fashion, Din and I are prepared to tackle it. When or if you sense the power being too much, can I trust you all to do your best to ensure things are managed? Such as ensuring the Elements of Harmony are protected as well as several important figure heads needed to win this war?" Katlyn crossed her arms and shifted her posture.

"Ye' expect us to manage all that? Ain't it better to just ensure it never happens?" She asked. I nodded.

"I agree with you. But I just want to make sure we are prepared for the worse. I already came from Ponyville and the Triad are knocking at the door." I replied. Gwyen sighed and tipped her hat.

"Can confirm. Rita and Galavance have been tryin' ta' scare 'em off near New Appleloosa. But the folk are restless. Already dealin' with several kindappin' cases. No doubt the Triad's work." She said. I nodded.

"That's another thing. I'm back here in Equestria when I need to be in Zebrica. We are currently handling a situation there that needs our attention. After that, it's off to Pony Land. But it'll take me more time to get there naturally, even with Din at full speed." I then smirked. "Which is why I'm going to need everycreature's help here." They rose a brow curiously. "With your combined elements, you're going to boost us from here all the way to Zebrica." As expected, the reactions were generally shocked. A sudden chill wind blew over us and from the icy particles, Shiva appeared.

"You... are not serious, vessel?" Shiva spoke. Din sighed.

"As much as I hate to share your sentiment, sister. She believes it'll work." Din frowned. "And I'm strangely inclined to believe it myself." I snickered.

"Aww. Thanks for caring, Din." I teased.

"Get on with it!" Din snapped. Fickle spoke.

"B-but... won't that much force kill you?" She said. She then widened her eyes and shrunk back. Tenebres side-eyed her before glaring at us.

"For all I care, I hope you splatter with your shattered skeleton." Tenebres spoke. I sighed.

"Look, I get it. It's not the best idea. But it's the only one I have that'll ensure I can get to my friends in Zebrica and settle the ordeal. I already died once, so I-" I then felt a sharp pain in my head and I hissed, rubbing my head and looking over my shoulder. Steel Heart snorted with a frown.

"Little pony still trying to kill herself? You fight dirty, but I didn't think you'd be this dumb." She said. I couldn't help but smile.

"It's why I'm doing it and no creature else." I looked to everycreature. "Just because I died once doesn't mean I'm fully believed I cannot be killed. It's just..." I hesitated a bit. "I just have certain options that I need to act on. Equestria is counting on me to stop this war and we are needed to save the realm. I'm already behind, no thanks to certain happenstances." Din glared at Tenebres, who turned her head in a scoff.

"Do ya' really think it'll work? We still aren't sure what Ouroboros is up to. Haven't 'eard anythin' from 'em in ages." Gwyen spoke. I nodded.

"That's another thing. I have a feeling we're going to be drawing more of the serpent's ire now that we are free of his control. He may be scrambling to handle somethings on his end before catching up to us. I want to keep ourselves ahead of him." I frowned. "He should have saw all of this coming for being so damned lazy. Can't believe we are forced into this situation over his mistake. Which is why this'll be fun payback against him for forcing all of us into this. With the power elements free to be independent of their strings, it's just a matter of when. So, I've been thinking of a solution for the summer solstice." I held up a hoof. "We are going to wait and see what happens." Rainbow Dash floated just above us.

"Fie?? What are you talking about?" She asked.

"Ouroboros has been lying to us for a while. All for the sake of keeping himself entertained while we fix his mistake. I'm inclined to believe that he's lying about the Summer Solstice as well." I sighed. "At least to some degree. I have a feeling that we are going to be confronting something on a scale that not even all the leaders of our realm can handle. And we are going to be needed in all of it. But at the same time, I aim to put in motion a backup plan. One that'll out Ouroboros and put him in his place." Everycreature was quiet.

"What plan?" Katlyn asked. I rubbed the back of my head.

"Din and I take the place of Ouroboros. We steal his powers and use it to fix everything. Then after that, it's just ensuring that it never happens again." I said. I saw their jaws drop.

"W-wait... steal the World Serpent's power??" Katlyn repeated. Din stepped forward and unfurled her wings in a majestical display.

"Tis a decision I whole heartedly agree with. The snake had put this upon themselves, disgracing the very being that created him. A being like him is not capable of achieving that status." She said. Ventus hummed.

"This is not like you, sister. You do not readily give yourself into a position that doesn't rein you in." She said. Din scoffed.

"Of course, I do not expect any of you simpletons to understand. But you do know that my hooves like to do more talking than my vessel here. So, keep quiet and let me finish!" She snarled. Ventus sighed. "I tire of having been pulled around by that snake no more than any of you have! I refuse to be resorted to nothing but a battery for some goody-two hooved princess and her lackies!"

"Hey!" Rainbow Dash protested but Din ignored her.

"This time, the Elements of Harmony will work for me! With our combined might and a... rather annoying idea Tenebres provided... we will use this newly made power to cut the serpent's head off and take his place! My rule is going to go far beyond the stars themselves!! The promised rule I've every right to behold!! One that should have been granted to me long ago!" Din snorted and closed her wings, sitting down on her haunches. "After that, I will keep your powers for myself as to not be abused in my absence." This got the ire of the elements, to no creature's surprise.

"You dare call us here just to rub in our humiliation further!? Piss off!!" Tenebres snapped.

"I do not agree with this! My ocean is beyond your understanding!!" Aquarius snarled.

"The earth trembles at my might!! I refuse to give you my beauty for the sake of some damned plan!! Gaia protested angrily.

"The skies do not heed your call, sister!! Perhaps you should know your own place!! Ventus reared and kicked her legs out in anger.

"Just what are you thinking, sister!? Do you not realize nor remember that we cannot offer ourselves upon each other!? Tis against the very nature of our being and what the Creation Mother intended!! You seek to disgrace her further than the serpent!?" Shiva exasperated. Din, however, looked bored and unfazed by all of this. She then spoke, loud enough to shake the earth and to echo from Manehatten to the far off reaches of Equestria.

"I DEMAND SILENCE!!" It was deafening. I, the vessels, Rainbow Dash and even the Shadowbolts had to cover our ears. Din unfurled her wings and I felt a strange warmth flow through me. Everycreature, save for the elements, began to glow. My hearing came back with a ringing of my ears. I rubbed them and frowned at Din. Din sighed in relief and had a dumb, satisfied smile on her face. "Hmph. My power grows stronger than I had imagined. Which is why you will do as I say, sisters. Or perhaps need I remind you who the true apex is." She looked between each of them challengingly. I couldn't believe it. The other elements took two steps back, having to stand behind their vessels. This confused the vessels as well. "Good. Now, allow me to finish. There is more than just offering yourself up to my might. You will not cease to exist if you do. In fact, you will all remain as you were. Able to live independent and free to yourselves. You will be limited in what you can do. But I assure you, tis a better fate than being considered a battery. Which is all for the matter of dealing with the serpent and the higher powers that are." I narrowed my look. I wasn't aware of this. Din must have locked this up in the back of her mind.

"Consider it your true freedom from a nightmare and false promises. But in order for you to achieve this, your power must be given to me when the time comes. We will decide what to do from then on." She then side-eyed me stoically. "I will not apologize keeping this from you, vessel. You need not know everything I have in mind. Only that of which I deem is relevant to the matter. Now then. I've said my part. Proceed." I sighed and rubbed my muzzle.

"Okay, well. That is something I was not expecting at all. But if it is something we are going to have to deal with later, then it'll be just that. Now for the next thing. The Tree of Power." I looked to Zalas. "Anything changed since last we visited?" Zalas nodded.

"It began to sssspeak." She replied. I tilted my head before she continued. "Unussssual dialect not even Quetzalcoatl can dessscipher. The cavern hassss alsssso changed. Roomssss appeared. Unssssure of exactly what they are intended for. Need more time." I hummed.

"New rooms in the cavern? Odd. I would like to look at it, but I have to get back to Zebrica as soon as I can. The last thing then." I looked to the others, Katlyn and Steel Heart specifically. "Think you can stay in Equestria and help Zalas with the tree? There might be something that can help if some of the power elements are present. Of course, you are free to walk around. Just know that I'm an exile here and that most creatures have been given privileges to take to confront you. If you are threatened... just go easy on them. Keep yourself alive but don't hurt them." I then turned to Fickle. For the next plan I have in mind. "Fickle." The filly balked.

"Uhh... ahh... y-yes?" She stammered. I smiled reassuredly.

"You are going to be beneficial to Equestria's sake. You are quite resourceful, so I can entrust this to you. Will you watch over Ponyville and Canterlot?" I asked. Fickle rubbed her foreleg nervously.

"H-huh? Me? Why?" She asked.

"I can trust my gals in Ponyville to protect everypony. But when I say watch over, I mean, will you be willing to be an official resident in Equestria?" I reiterated. Fickle blinked.

"O-official... resident?" She asked. I nodded.

"Ponies foster friendships more than you realize. Granted I still don't know the pain you've gone through, but I guarantee you that Ponyville is the best place to just... destress from life. And if you are ever in trouble, there are some nice ponies in Canterlot that'll be able to help you and can fall back on." I winked at her. "I think having a bit more time in the light of friendship can help you embrace both worlds. Can't have one without the other." Fickle was dumbfounded.

"Wha... Why?" She replied. "After everything I did in that other world... to you and everyone else... you'd still... ask to entrust me with something? How do I know it's not another lie? How can I trust your word on this?" She grasped her shadowy cloak. "You're right. You don't know what I've been through. Sunset told me you have some idea, but putting this on me now is just... it's wrong. All of this is wrong! Why are you doing all of this!? Why are you risking your life and limbs for the sake of a world that has been treating you poorly?? For these ponies you call 'friends'!" She began to tear up a little. "No pony will ever have your back. Not even now. You are still going to be detained or... or worse off because you ended up back here against your will!" I pulled away and gave a soft sigh through my snout.

"Yeah, I wasn't expecting the portal to send me directly into Ponyville. But that's beside the point. I'm asking you this because I know you can be the best self you can be. And Ponyville will foster those values. You'll still struggle and still feel pain. You may not even get along with some of the neighbors there. But I can guarantee you that being there will show you just what I mean about being your best self." I smiled at her. Fickle studied my look, as if trying to pick out anything that would convince her what I said was nothing but lies. When it seemed she couldn't be sure, she sniffled and wiped her eyes.

"F-fine... but I'm not... doing this out of obligation. I'm not sure why you think this is a good idea..." She said sadly. I chuckled.

"Gotta' experience it yourself. Words can only do so much. Speaking of." I turned to the others. "I have one last thing I want to say. When the time comes and we are ready to face whatever may threaten everycreature involved, we'll do it our way." I put a hoof to my chest. "We are not tied to this fate or destiny forced onto us. Not anymore. I'll be back once I find Lux and we can finally put an end to this." I stepped forward into the center. "Now then, if you'd be so kind? Katlyn, Gwyen and Steel. Mind doing something?" I directed them to their spots. The Shadowbolts arched a brow curiously.

"What are you doing?" Rainbow Dash asked. I gave her a wink before motioning Zalas in front. I then leaned in and whispered into her ear.

"Concentrate enough force at my hooves and into Steel's fists." I told her. Zalas blinked in confusion but nodded. I then nodded to the others. With my direction, Gwyen and Katyln gathered their powers into Steel's balled fists together. The Shadowbolt Captain crossed his forelegs as I finished up the set up.

"Enough wasting time, Demon. We are behind schedule." He said. I chuckled and waved a hoof at him.

"Oh, trust me. You aren't the only one." I said before nodding to Steel. She gave a knowing look. The Shadowbolt Captain floated over to me with a few other Shadowbolts.

"Stop what you are doing. Anymore and we'll be forced to take you in." He commanded. I waved to Rainbow Dash.

"Wanted to see how great a flier I am?" I grinned. Without hesitation, I gave a cool salute to the Shadowbolt captain as I flipped and planted my hooves into Steel's balled fists. Din then released Discord's magic and I felt an overwhelming tingling sensation. Steel stamped her hoof and flung me with all her might into the sky, the sand erupting around them and disorienting the Shadowbolts. Din surrounded me with fire for protection as I was unable to move from being launched. I couldn't feel my face and I had my eyes closed, unsure of what was going on. Din sighed.

The fact it is working is quite astounding... She stated. I couldn't speak as I was trying to ensure my face wasn't trying to be ripped off. It was quite deafening. Din then began to release her magic and spreading it outward. As she busied herself away, I could only think of my friends.

'Hang on guys! I'm coming!' Din hummed as she began to take control of my flight, keeping my for certain death-defying momentum going. Thank the Creation Mother for primal perks.