Reign of the Diamond Emperor

Chapters

Prologue: Pack Leader
01 Looting and slaves
02 Learning and adaptation
03 Military Reform
04 Hide and Seek and Memory
05 Manipulation and Reflection
06 Rejection and anger.
07 Filly Delphia
09 Train and return
08 Fireworks and Commerce

Prologue: Pack Leader

Struggled to get up, the ground trembling beneath my battered feet. My clothes were nothing but tatters, stained with blood and dust. The wounds, some inflicted by bullets, others by blades or traps, burned cruelly. The mercenaries I had chosen had opted for betrayal and escape.

They paid the price for their treachery, whether caught in the traps or struck by the few bullets I had left. The water had begun to seep into the temple, an implacable ominous tide.

As best as I could, I made my way to the source of all my misfortunes: the Eternal Canine Diamond, a necklace of red and blue diamonds. The water was rising inexorably. I knew my end was near, but I wanted at least to hold onto this cursed treasure, so that the next one would have to pry it from my corpse if they wanted it.

Limping towards the necklace, my thoughts turned to my men who had refused to follow me, forcing me to resort to mercenaries. "Bastards, I was right, it does exist!" My hands touched the necklace. The next moment, a devastating electric current surged violently through my already battered body…

Footsteps interrupted the writing of my biography.

I was perched on my granite throne, clad in dark iron armor, my helmet resting on a small table beside me. Two freestanding braziers cast flickering light, illuminating the cave that served as the sanctuary for my throne, while water droplets fell regularly into a small basin in the darkness of the right corner.

I raised my eyes; he seemed out of breath at first glance. His left ear was missing, and he bore the marks of a fierce battle. "Who dared!" My voice thundered with indignation. With a swift motion, I rose from my throne, the armor emitting a slight metallic clink as I grasped my sword.

Bandit was catching his breath laboriously. "Boss, we've captured a Pony," his tail wagged with pride. Since my arrival in this world, I had never tolerated a personal affront, but this went beyond. No one laid a hand on my subjects!

"Any losses? Any wounded?" My voice was cutting, but a hint of concern could be sensed.

"None, boss." I stared him straight in the eyes, then my gaze fell on his missing ear, blood still lightly oozing from the wound. "It's nothing, boss..." His voice was barely audible, tinged with palpable tension.

"Bring me this pony, chain him, and take everything he has on him," Bandit begins to leave. During my wait, I recalled everything I had learned about ponies, weak and cowardly creatures divided into four tribes: Pegasus, Unicorn, Earth Ponies, and 'Princess?'.

Footsteps echoed, approaching my door, signaling the imminent arrival of my little pony. It was time to play the charade. I returned to my throne, donning my full helmet that concealed much of my face, leaving only my piercing eyes visible. Bandit opened the door and stood to my right, placing the possessions of my prisoner on the floor before me.

Then, what I had been eagerly awaiting happened: my new guest was led on a leash by one of my guards, escorted by a second. A light blue earth pony, mane white, muzzle covered with a rag. It was impossible for me to discern their gender precisely, but I would have said female. My gaze descended to their flank: a pickaxe, a mark of value in my eyes. She would be perfect for aiding my brave miners...

I quickly surveyed what Bandit had deposited at my feet: a few books, writing supplies, food, a pickaxe, a helmet, and, most importantly, a map accompanied by a compass. I picked up one of the books in my hands, trying to decipher its contents. However, it presented me with a series of indecipherable, enigmatic, and unfamiliar symbols.

The map, on the other hand, seemed to detail the area not far from my mountain. "Bandit, I want this map copied, as soon as our business is concluded," I commanded with unwavering authority. He nodded, drops of blood still falling from the tatters of his ear. I grasped my sword, plunging it into the brazier to my right, intensely observing the pony's ears.

"I am Emperor Edward, ruler of the Diamond Dogs!" my voice resonated in the throne room. "Normally, you would have already been ungagged, and we would have had a little conversation," I let a silence hang, my eyes fixed on the flames, waiting for the blade to blaze with a fiery red. "But today, you have harmed my subjects and defied my right hand," I seethed, turning my fiery gaze back to the struggling, tearful pony. "Remove their gag and hold them down!" My guards hastened to obey, the atmosphere becoming more sinister than ever for this poor creature.

"No, please..." This little creature could only choke between their sobs. I removed my helmet, a cruel smile lighting up my face, foreign to this world, as the iron of my sword gleamed with a sinister red. With slow, heavy steps, I approached the pony.

"Perhaps I will show some generosity," I said, stopping, a glimmer of hope shining in the pony's eyes. "Bandit, you have the right to seek revenge, but I need this one alive." I extended the hilt of the sword to my right hand. He took it without the slightest hesitation, his fingers gripping the handle with icy determination. I looked at him with an amused smile as he gently pulled the pony's right ear upwards.

A torrent of pleas and cries burst forth from the creature's mouth, followed by a piercing cry of pain as the red-hot iron made contact with their fur. The screams continued until my right hand held his trophy…

I applauded lightly. "Well, now that this matter is settled." I reached out to retrieve my sword, placing it back in its sheath. "You can release him." The creature curled up in tears, holding painfully where, just a minute ago, its ear was still intact.

"Well, now that my right-hand man has had his due, we can begin our conversation," I declared imperiously, letting a heavy silence settle as I resumed my place on my throne. "Unless you'd like to face a second correction?" She still looked at me, terrified by my imposing presence. I felt like an all-powerful ruler. My gaze turned to Bandit, who was toying with his new trophy, before I handed him one of the books. "Can you read, Bandit?" My question clearly caught him off guard.

"No, boss," he muttered. I let out a slow sigh. This pony had just earned herself a brief respite before joining the mines.

"I have good news and bad news... um, what should I call you?" I saw her ears turn in my direction.

"I... Onyx Star," she stammered. A smirk appeared on my face.

"The Boss didn't ask for your name!" The pony looked terrified, followed by a series of apologies and bows. She was learning quickly.

"Fallen Star, the good news is that you won't just be a slave"... "for now," I murmured as I took a book in hand. "You're going to teach us to read, and the customs and history of ponies." ..." Fallen Star, when you address me, you say 'master'," I added, letting a final silence hang. "Unless you want to lose your precious fur," I concluded in a calm but threatening tone.

I rose with deliberate steps, approaching the pony and extending my arm to caress her head. "We will spend long moments together," I said in a chilling voice. I scrutinized her more closely before whispering in her ear, in a cruel and softly threatening tone, "After all, I respect my female subjects enough to not make advances on them." A sinister laugh escaped my lips. "But you, Fallen Star, you are not one of my subjects. You are my first slave." Realization set in, and her fur seemed to bristle.

"Now, leave us alone. And Bandit, don't forget the map," I added imperiously, before returning to my throne, Fallen Star's leash in hand.

Bandit and the two guards bowed slightly. "I am proud of you, you have done a remarkable job," I declared in a loud but friendly voice. Their tails wagged with pride as they left the throne room..."Now, it's your turn, Fallen."

If on that day Fallen was not the most sorry mare, she was certainly the most torn…

Days passed, and I realized that I was assimilating the writing and reading methods of these equines more quickly than I would have thought, although Bandit and two of my subjects whom I deemed the most intelligent were not progressing fast enough for my taste. After all, Fallen was not a good tutor, but she was all I had for the moment.

I was in my throne room with Bandit, Fallen seemed asleep on the floor, tethered to a ring set in the wall. A cruel smile danced on my lips when he finally asked the question that had been tormenting him for days.

"Boss... Why do you insist that we learn to read?"

"I want to see my people thrive, Bandit. But for that, I need a population of educated fighters, capable of thinking and leading a territory," I explained, observing his eyes widen as his neurons fired.

"You want us to conquer, boss?" he asked, incredulous. I smiled; these creatures have lived without conflict for far too long. I reached out to gently stroke his head.

"Yes, but to achieve that, we need to acquire more slaves like our dear Fallen Star, and gather as many strays as possible," I continued, pulling out the map with my free hand. "You see, there seems to be a small hamlet a few kilometers from here." A childlike grin spread across my face. "It would be truly regrettable if the inhabitants were to disappear in the dead of night..."

"Yes, truly a shame, boss," he replied, smiling, his fangs clearly visible.

01 Looting and slaves

I had gathered all my soldiers in the majestic throne room, having each of them served a cup of mushroom alcohol from my personal reserve. Fifty fighters stood before me, astonishment evident in their eyes. They knew it was not a common drink, especially in the depths of the mines.

Once the last of my men was served, I rose from my throne, keeping Bandit by my side, his presence attesting to his importance.

"My brave soldiers, I am sure you are wondering why I have gathered you here today!" My confident voice echoed through the hall, instantly capturing the attention of all my men, and the attentive ear of Fallen.

"Today, we stand at a turning point in history. The echoes of destiny resonate in the air, calling upon us, the strong, to rise and expand our empire against Equestria! We will rally our brethren and raise an army that none of those wretched ponies dare defy!" Excitement was visible on the faces and tails of my soldiers, while Fallen remained frozen in her usual fear.

"We will not merely win, we will obliterate their history and restore their species to its rightful place," I added, a determined smile stretching across my lips. "As our servants!"

I turned to Fallen, emphasizing her crucial role and breaking her a little further. "Fallen as a good slave, has provided me with the missing piece to initiate our preparations. Tomorrow night, we will reduce the hamlet of Emerald Val to ashes and capture as many of those wretched ponies as possible!"

I took a deep breath, raising my cup "TO THE ETERNAL DIAMOND EMPIRE," before drinking its contents, mirrored by my brave soldiers, in front of a tearful Fallen.

I led my troop, the night shrouding our advance. The armor of my men glinted subtly, and their steps echoed heavily... That would need to be addressed for the next assaults. As for myself, my dark armor blended in perfectly, except perhaps for my footsteps. Adding rubber soles would be wise, although finding Hevea in these mountains is unlikely.

The march was not supposed to exceed an hour, but unfortunately, the dogs were slow and poorly trained. Some of them even seemed devoid of the slightest intelligence to think about grabbing some water... I will have to standardize their equipment and train them properly, I was too accustomed to working with trained mercenaries to have thought of it before today.

We finally arrived at the small hamlet of Emerald Val. The forces were divided into two groups. Twenty of my soldiers, armed with crossbows and spears, were under Bandit's command. Their mission: encircle the hamlet, hide in the shadows, and aim to kill any Pegasus while doing everything in their power to capture a unicorn. As for me, I was accompanied by my personal guard, consisting of ten of my most 'seasoned' soldiers, and twenty more soldiers, all equipped with spears and, most importantly, plenty of handcuffs.

The minutes stretched on, and the dogs were anything but discreet. However, I waited patiently for Bandit to finish his work and give me the confirmation.

"Boss, the guys are in position," he whispered to me.

"Perfect," I replied, a sadistic grin lighting up my face beneath the helmet.

I turned to my assault group, divided into five teams of two, reviewing the plan. "You enter each residence with at least two people and maintain visual contact with each other. Capturing as many ponies as possible is crucial, but the main objective remains a unicorn." My group acknowledged. "No noise until the signal."

I moved stealthily through the fields, preceded by my guard. No light yet pierced the windows, evidence that we were still operating in the shadows, shielded from prying eyes. My men, my pride, positioned themselves in pairs near each door. Even setting the barn aside, we had twelve dwellings to deal with.

I stood before the largest residence, kicking the door in with a masterful strike. "TO THE ETERNAL DIAMOND EMPIRE!" I shouted. The assault signal triggered, cries of surprise and groans of pain quickly rose throughout the hamlet. I closed my eyes for a moment to savor the efficiency of my men.

Suddenly, a powerful force ejected me from the house. I landed on my feet without any trouble, reopening my eyes to face a gray unicorn with a white mane standing at the entrance. "Ready to dance?" I say.

I rushed towards him, anticipating his move. With a smooth motion, I skillfully dodged to the side just as his horn lit up, a beam of energy passing through the spot where I stood less than a second ago.

With a swift motion, I executed a sliding tackle, sending him to the ground. In a seamless sequence, I grabbed him holding him to the ground with all my weight in a controlled chokehold, aiming to render him unconscious. "shh, it's almost over," I whispered in an unyielding voice.

Cries echoed in my ears, and suddenly, something struck my helmet with force. I looked up to find a frantic unicorn foal, hammering my helmet with hoof strikes. A sinister smile formed beneath my visor..

It was even better. Abandoning all restraint, I let my power burst forth. Tightening my grip, I crushed the unicorn's neck with a heartbreaking crack.

I stood up, leaving the unicorn carcass behind. My gaze fell upon the foal crawling towards the corpse, sadness in its eyes. I didn't have time to waste on a tearful scene, even though I would have liked to hear the cliché phrases. With a quick movement, I grabbed the child by the horn, putting chains on his legs and blindfolding him before leaving him on the ground for now.

I then returned to assist my guards. The rest of the plan went off without a hitch, except for an earth pony who was performing katas with a shovel. I couldn't help but laugh before delivering a dropkick, accidentally break is skull open… People are made of glass in this world ?

"Gather all the captured ponies as well as the corpses," I commanded. Once they were assembled, I quickly counted the living and the dead ponies on a piece of parchment.

Total deceased: 10–1 unicorn, 3 Pegasus , 6 earth ponies

Living: 13–1 unicorn (1 foal), 2 Pegasus (1 foal, 1 elderly), 9 earth ponies (2 foals, 3 injured adults, 4 adults)

"Perfect. Relay to Bandit that he should split his forces in two: one team to scout the surroundings and the other to maintain the perimeter." The ponies murmured amongst themselves, but their constant chatter did not reach me. My icy gaze settled on my elite guards. "You ten, keep watch over the prisoners with me. The rest, inspect each house, pack up any books, gems, and supplies you find."

A heavy silence fell, interrupted only by the anxious breaths of the prisoners. I scrutinized each of them, making sure none of my men were seriously injured and that the wings of the Pegasus were securely bound. Any whispered word or slip of tongue was met with a corresponding response, ranging from a frosty glare to a resounding kick.

Submission quickly seeped into their terrified eyes. I took particular pleasure in the most frightened, dragging them behind me by their manes to a house, where I questioned them about the number of people present. The answers were uniformly affirmative; the entire hamlet was accounted for.

An hour had passed. My soldiers had gathered everything that could be carried from the village. I knew it was time to act. "Tell Bandit to come with his men," I commanded.

Once my entire troop was assembled, I quickly make them stacked some corpses to make an improvised grim throne. I sat upon it, fixing my new subjects with an imperious gaze before speaking. "I am Emperor Edward, ruler of the Diamond Dogs. Henceforth, you belong to my empire and its subjects..." Murmurs and some slight protests rose from the crowd, stifled by the weight of my presence.

My icy gaze swept over the gathering, piercing each one of them. "Let anyone who dares oppose me stand up. I will grant them the gift of an honorable and swift death." Of course, none of these wretched ponies dared to rise. "We have three hours left before the sun rises, you're going to obey or die."

I turned to Bandit, entrusting him with the task of chaining them together and organizing the loading. "I'll take the unicorn with me." With a firm motion, I grabbed the still-blindfolded creature, securing it on my shoulder.

"Oh, and Bandit, one last thing," I added in a frigid tone, "make them drag the bodies of their kin." With the foal on my shoulder, I began to set the houses ablaze, one by one. The flames danced, illuminating the night with an eerie glow, silent witnesses of my power.

My troop was moving too slowly, escorting our new slaves. "Hold your heads high, my men. Your women await you, and you have reason to be proud of your work !." My men lifted their heads, with pride.

Our entrance into the cave was triumphant. I ordered the new slaves to be taken directly to the throne room, where Fallen Star watched my arrival in horror. "Celestia, what have I done..." I caught her whisper as I settled onto my throne.

"A job worthy of a reward, my little toy." I returned to the parchment where I had recorded the count of the ponies. They were all there. It was time to examine their Cutie Marks and assign them new names. Then, I would personally dissect the corpses of the dead pony, hoping to glean some useful information. At worst, a horse can be consumed.

Of course, the unicorn was an exception and was chained near my throne with Fallen. I had too much work to be immediately concerned with him. The logistical problems these new slaves brought were staggering. Sorting through the recovered books was laborious, largely due to the reading level of my right-hand man. The only thing progressing as I wanted was the standardization of my soldiers' equipment, until I could establish a hierarchy amongst them.

Be a Emperor is not an easy task after all …

02 Learning and adaptation

If I had access to tobacco, I would smoke constantly to calm my nerves, standing tall on my throne. With a steady hand, I removed my gauntlet and stroked Fallen's mane, resting on my knees, but my gaze remained icy, despite the relaxation her brought me…

Only two days after launching my first attack, I had already distributed the loot evenly among my men. Alongside Bandit, I spent the night sorting through books worthy of my interest, despite my limited mastery of the Equestrian language. Two shelves of knowledge were to the right of my throne.

The modernization of my men's equipment was underway, but I couldn't exhaust my blacksmiths with assembly-line work. For now, the priority was adding canteens and standardizing armor to avoid light reflections.

I also regularly sent scouts to survey the ashes of the hamlet, to see if the column of smoke hadn't attracted any unwanted attention near my mountain.

As for the unicorn foal I had retrieved, I decided to name him Menial Horned. He was in isolation in total darkness until I could mold him in my image.

I continued to plan the next steps of my operations with an icy determination. It would be imperative to remain in the shadows while the embers of the hamlet were still hot...

I had acted too impulsively, rushing without having all the necessary data. This mistake would not be repeated. I needed to gather an arsenal of knowledge, understand the intricacies of magic, and unravel the mysteries surrounding the princesses. Nothing would be left to chance.

I thought about all of this while Fallen did her best to conceal her reactions. It was clear that she appreciated my small gestures.

With a firm gesture, I extended my free hand to grab one of the books on my table, right next to my helmet. The purple cover, adorned with a horseshoe and a star in the center, revealed the 'Friendship Journal'... A book that would normally have ended up in the flames... However, the princesses and their friends had shared life lessons. If I could extract even a fragment of usefulness to use against them, it would be a promising start.

My informants had also revealed to me the existence of a recent conflict, where Equestria's victory had hung by a thread. Three of the most formidable threats had converged, and how they had overcome this trial was a crucial mine of information, but none of these useless informants were present to give me the information I needed.

I immersed myself in the reading, absorbing every word, etching into my memory the information that could prove to be vital.

I had devoured a large portion of the adventures anthology of the six, a reading that had surprisingly entertained me. Nevertheless, these mares possessed powers almost divine. In the current state of my empire, I felt powerless, while they seemed capable of single-handedly defeating an army. Especially when considering that all my subjects were far from united under my banner...

Immersed in my thoughts for the future of our empire, I was pulled from my meditation by Bandit's voice. 'You okay, boss?'

A sigh escaped my lips. 'I'm thinking about the future of our empire, Bandit. Have the slaves completed their task?'

'Yes, the table you requested should arrive, but the map copies won't be ready for a while.'

'I know. Have you found qualified personnel to locate my subjects and convince them to join my empire?' My response was brief and sharp.

'Boss, why don't you use...' He couldn't finish his sentence; I cut him off abruptly.

"Enslaving the historical enemies of my people is one thing, but what emperor would abuse his power to do the same to his own people?" another sigh escaped my lips. "Yes, I had to use that power on you when I entered this room. It was necessary to put an end to the influence of your former leader, who would have led you straight to ruin. But I seek only the good of my subjects..." Bandit lowered his head, filled with shame. I had employed this power as a last resort, and there was no need to specify that to my right-hand man.

"Yes, Boss..." he replied in a low voice. A cold silence settled in until the sounds of hooves and chains echoed in the corridor, accompanied by fierce barking. My granite table was brought in and placed in my throne room by four earth ponies. I continued to stroke Fallen with a sly smile, letting my hand slide down her side and lightly brush the soft skin between her hind legs, causing her to shiver.

Some earth ponies noticed this gesture, their palpable disgust evident in their unflinching gazes. Division was a powerful tool for maintaining control.

"Perfect, Bandit, you may go. Bring me those you deem qualified to be diplomats. I will make the selection myself." I waited for everyone to leave the room before turning to Fallen.

I repositioned her on my lap, placing her front hooves on my shoulders. Our gazes met at the same height, and I embraced her gently before kissing her fiercely for several seconds. Surprise and confusion were evident in her eyes when I finally set her down gently on the ground. "I'll attend to you later, Fallen. For now, I have work to do." I love to play with her filing…

I unfolded a rough map of Equestria. While it wasn't perfect, it at least indicated the major cities. We were a four-hour walk from the nearest railway tracks, in the mountains near Filly Delphia.

I opened the secret compartment of my throne to retrieve "The Eternal Canine Diamond," placing it around my neck before returning to the map. "I, Emperor Edward, ruler of the Diamond Empire, command that the presence of the Diamond Dog packs be revealed on this map!" The collar sent a painful electric shock through me as certain areas of the map darkened.

Taking off the collar, I caught my breath, smiling despite the pain. There was a pack two days' march away, a perfect test. I returned to sit on my throne, gesturing for Fallen to come back onto my lap, then picked up another book at random. "Read me the contents, Fallen." It was a book recounting the history, likely in a romanticized manner, of the two sisters Luna and Celestia. I assumed it was the equivalent of their goddesses, although I doubted the reality of them raising the sun and the moon.

I only interrupted this when Bandit returned with an elderly dog. "Are you sure of your choice, Bandit?" My icy gaze fixed on the old dog.

"Yes, boss," he replied, nodding. I had no doubt in him.

"What's your name?" I scrutinized the old dog, looking for any sign of weakness or doubt.

"I am Argos, my emperor. It is an honor to be able to speak with you." I appreciated his tone.

"For me, Argos, there is only one way to prove your effectiveness." I gestured towards the map. "There is a group of Diamond Dogs two days' march away." I let a silence linger, observing his reaction.

"Do you want me to rally them to our banner, my emperor?" His response was filled with determination.

"Indeed. I will leave you with two of my personal guards to escort you, but if you haven't returned within a week..." A heavy silence hung. "I will consider that they have killed you and will come to spill their blood myself."

Argos showed no hesitation. "I understand, my emperor. I will do everything in my power to rally these dogs to our cause and return within the allotted time. You will not be disappointed."

I gave him a brief nod. "That is what I expect from you, Argos. The future of our empire depends on how easily we can rally our own."

He bowed respectfully. "Thank you, my emperor. I will depart as soon as possible."

I gestured for him to leave, then turned to Bandit. "Make sure he has everything he needs for this mission."

Bandit nodded. "Of course, boss. I will ensure he is well-equipped and escorted by your guards."

Once Bandit was gone, I refocused on the spread-out map before me. Strategy and diplomacy were essential to solidify my empire. I left the throne room, heading towards the cells, interrogating any still-injured slaves about the last knowledge they had of the world...

A waste of time, they had no new information to offer, and it seemed I had broken the neck of the only knowledgeable person in the village.

I moved through my mountain with imposing confidence, my armor complete. Despite the darkness and confinement, the atmosphere was electric, vibrating with an underlying energy. The underground city was not just an enclave; it was a hidden kingdom, a complex labyrinth of tunnels and chambers where civilization had found its own essence, its own vigor in the shadows.

My kingdom, my responsibility. When my designs were complete, they could return to the surface, freed from the oppression that the ponies had subjected them to. My subjects did not fear me, but they respectfully stepped aside as I passed, greeting me with deference. I made sure to acknowledge their homage every time. My authority was unquestioned, yet they loved me. My reign was a balance of respect and admiration, and that was how I wanted it to be.

03 Military Reform

I scanned my kingdom with a scrutinizing gaze, taking pleasure in seeing the citizens of my empire go about their tasks. The joyful laughter of children filled the air, while a particular fragrance filled my nostrils. A blend of mushrooms and fresh meats from the animals in the surrounding mountain.

However, despite the comfort and relative abundance, I couldn't help but feel a certain lack. Metal and precious stones were indeed plentiful, but a part of me yearned for my subjects to have access to more... refined luxuries. Real meat, superfluous objects, those little touches of ease that mark the difference between survival and comfort.

My empire was prosperous, but I couldn't help but dream of a future where my subjects would enjoy all the riches I had envisioned for them.

I strode through the gates of the barracks with a determined step, a vast stone building erected to accommodate my newly recruited soldiers. The next moment, an unbearable stench hit me, a suffocating mix of sweat, metal, leather, and spoiled food.

With a sharp glance, I surveyed the scene of chaos that reigned throughout the barracks. Swords, spears, shields, even bits of armor, strewn about haphazardly... it was a disaster. I forced myself to take a deep breath, my contained fury evident in every feature.

"All present soldiers, outside! In line, now!" My voice thundered, breaking the silence. At first, there was a moment of hesitation, some even starting to chuckle, not realizing who I was. Then, a soldier turned his gaze in my direction just as I grabbed and armed two crossbows.

"Boss?" his eyes filled with surprise.

"Your emperor, must he repeat himself!"

"No, boss," they replied in unison. In less than a minute, all the soldiers stood outside, lined up somewhat haphazardly.

I positioned myself in front of them, hands behind my back, pacing along the row. My fifty soldiers resided here; only my personal guard enjoyed the luxury of individual chambers in the same corridor as mine.

"I'll be back in four hours. I want this barracks clean and tidy." My demands didn't reach the level of strictness of the army in my world, but a minimum of order was non-negotiable.

"I also plan to replace the furniture, but not today. Now, get to work." I watched them hastily re-enter the building.

I walked away quickly, calming myself along the way, heading toward the nearest artisan to place an order for four red stone necklaces and one blue necklace. It was time to instill some discipline and order in this place. My empire deserved a proper army, ready to fight .

Feeling generous, I had granted them four hours and ten minutes before returning with my order, a small box carefully held under my arm.

When I entered again, the smell had somewhat diminished, and a semblance of order had been established. The shortage of supplies was evident, and it would be imperative to address it to enforce more discipline.

"Everyone out, in line, just like earlier," I commanded. The soldiers promptly complied, forming rows.

I placed the box on the floor, observing them closely. I had five of them, randomly chosen, all diamond dogs, step forward. "Form fair columns behind each of you." Although they were soldiers, they were not trained military, and the order took some time to be executed. I waited, watching their progress with patience.

When the five columns were finally formed, I addressed them. "Let each column designate the man they deem most competent to me." I wanted to see who would stand out in this impromptu selection.

Several long minutes and an indecisive murmur later, each column had finally designated a representative. I then asked the five chosen ones to select a spokesperson among them.

I pulled out the blue necklace first and placed it around the neck of the designated diamond dog. "Congratulations, you are now a sergeant," I declared, shaking his paw. I repeated the gesture with the four others, granting them the rank of corporal.

"Sergeant Rock, you have the privilege to request an audience with me or to address my right-hand if any issues arise in the barracks. You are also in charge of overseeing the state of the building and ensuring that the soldiers dedicate ten minutes every morning to its maintenance," I explained, then turned to the corporals.

"As for you, you will be the guardians of the common soldiers. You will need to inspect the basic equipment, and in case of any issues, report them to the sergeant." I gave them an encouraging smile.

"Sergeant and corporals, I trust you to maintain order..." I made sure to memorize their names as I went along.

After a brief speech about the importance of discipline and regular training, I allowed them to return to their tasks. The atmosphere in the barracks had already begun to change, and the order now prevailing in this place was a promise of improvement for the future.

I returned to the throne room, my head slightly tilted as I pondered the search for an education overseer. It turned out that the only individuals with some literacy were Bandit and myself, which meant that I had to seriously consider training competent personnel.

Entering the throne room, I paused for a moment to observe a mare pulling on her chains with all her might. I quietly approached her from behind.

Then, gently, I lifted her into my arms and whispered into her ear, "Where do you think you're going, my Fallen?" She jumped slightly in surprise.

"It's... it's not what you think, Master," she managed to articulate. I nibbled her ear lightly, muttering under my breath.

"I'm not thinking of anything in particular, but it's true that it's been a while since I've enjoyed what your body has to offer me..." My hands moved slowly across the map that adorned my new table, arranging it properly before placing the defiant mare on it. The muffled moans of pleasure that Fallen was doing her best to stifle quickly echoed through the room.

In the calm that followed my cardio session, I settled on my throne, taking one of the blank scrolls retrieved from the village. Carefully, I wrote down instructions regarding the functioning of the ranks and the expectations I had for my soldiers. Even though they couldn't read them at the moment, I was convinced of their future utility.

Crucial questions plagued my mind. How did Equestria's army still function? These were inquiries I couldn't afford to have answered just yet. My gaze shifted towards Fallen, asleep by my side. The ponies were not trustworthy for this task, and the people I ruled over were unwelcome among them. How could I establish a reliable information network in this world?

For now, walking remained my only means of transportation. I couldn't bring myself to attack a train for current information; it was far too risky, and no ponies had been sighted since the hamlet disappeared. The success of my future plans relied heavily on the information Argos could bring me.

I refocused on the search for someone to educate my people. We had neither a school nor a museum, and Bandit already had a significant share of responsibilities in commanding the army and the scouts.

Perhaps I could personally train Sergeant Rock briefly so that he could pass on the basics to my soldiers. It was a path worth exploring. I opted for this option, hoping it would give a start to my people. It also occurred to me that I could seize one of the ponies currently in my mines and compel them to instruct certain individuals.

I retrieved the list I had made of my slaves, with their new names and a brief description of their cutie marks. None of them seemed to resemble a literate individual, but perhaps False Chord could suffice. A musician must know how to handle words, mustn't they?

I didn't directly engage with him, instead explaining to Bandit what needed to be done. I entrusted him with the responsibility of selecting the first five candidates. It was a crucial mission for the future of my empire, and I relied on their cooperation as well as to show Bandit that he had my trust.

04 Hide and Seek and Memory

Three days passed without any notable issues. I slept deeply in my bed, made of solid wood and canvas, a luxury I relished despite its simplicity. My sword and crossbow were always within reach.

My personal quarters were far from lavish. I appreciated the simplicity and utility of my room. Three complete sets of armor adorned the back, ready to be donned at a moment's notice. A small wardrobe held a few spare clothes. Next to it, a mirror overlooked a basin of fresh water, regularly replenished by the servants so I could present myself at my best.

In one corner, a massive chest sat, containing a veritable fortune in gemstones and jewelry that had belonged to the previous leader.

The floor of my room was paved with dark stone, imbuing the place with a sturdy and solemn atmosphere. Wall-mounted torches cast a soft light, creating dancing shadows that seemed to sway to the rhythm of my will.

A large, solid wood desk was placed near the window, where I could observe the surroundings of my underground fortress. On this desk, a fresh copy of the map of Equestria was spread out, dotted with markers and strategic notes. Blank scrolls were neatly stored in a corner, ready to receive my orders and plans.

In the corner of the room, a secure chest held my most precious and personal belongings. From time to time, I opened it to remind myself of the path I had traveled, from a mere tomb raider to the future emperor of another world.

A noise at the door pulled me from my reverie. I opened my eyes with difficulty, my fatigue still present. I began to dress, uttering a simple "Enter, Bandit." The iron door creaked open with a heavy groan that gave me a slight headache. Bandit, out of breath, stood before me.

"Speak," I ordered.

"Scouts, ponies, guards... they were searching," he articulated between gasping breaths.

I was relieved to have my back to him at that moment. I couldn't allow him to see the concern on my face. I hurried to finish dressing before donning one of my suits of armor.

"Alert my personal guard. I want to see the soldiers at the entrance of my kingdom!" I commanded, my tone firm. The situation called for swift and decisive action.

I arrived at the entrance at the same time as my personal guard. My brain was working at full speed, analyzing the options available to me. We were at least an hour's walk away from the ashes of the hamlet, and I couldn't afford to directly engage the potential forces of Equestria. The presence of a pegasus who might escape or even their disappearance could come back to them with a much more imposing army. It would only draw even more attention to us.

I needed to act with caution and intelligence. My nascent empire couldn't afford a premature confrontation... The bold but potentially effective idea came to me quickly. After all, these ponies and soldiers might not be as accustomed to the caves and the topography as my men, who had lived in these undergrounds their whole lives.

I turned to my soldiers and quickly explained the plan.

"We simulate an old cave-in further down, silently blocking the entrance so that even if they find it, it will be impossible for them to penetrate inside. Make sure to do this with caution and leave no trace of our involvement."

My guards nodded, understanding the urgency of the situation. They immediately set to work, dispersing to implement our plan.

In twenty minutes, the entrance was sealed. I considered making this method permanent, if only I could find a way to create a secret door. These ponies were definitely troublesome.

I designated two men from my personal guard to keep watch over the entrance. Then, I turned to the rest of my troops, most of them just emerging from their beds.

"Tonight, we'll need to create a concealed entrance and exit for our scouts. I want to know what these weaklings are up to and when they leave. Corporals, I charge you with organizing guard rotations until tonight," I declared imperiously.

They seemed a bit confused, but they understood the gravity of the situation.

"I want the guard to change every two hours. Be vigilant and make sure to report any suspicious activity," I added, reinforcing my order.

My men nodded, showing that they understood the importance of this mission. I had to make sure we wouldn't be discovered before we were ready to face any potential confrontation.

My entrance into the throne room was filled with fury, the steel door deforming under my strength. If any other pony than my Fallen had been present, they would have endured my wrath for no reason other than their existence. I settled on my throne, reaching for one of my numerous books.

"Are you well, Master?" Fallen asked from the makeshift pallet I had arranged for her. I looked at her, wondering why these creatures seemed devoid of any survival instinct.

I took a deep breath and then exhaled deeply. It was crucial to control my anger. "Yes, Fallen," I replied, tapping my knees with my free hand, a signal for her to come and perch on them.

Once she was positioned on me, I removed one of my gloves to stroke her white mane. I delved my gaze into the book I held, perusing the pages. It was a work on the history of Nightmare Moon, a story undoubtedly read to the naughty foal, but I lowered my head to look at Fallen.

"Nightmare Moon, a story from your race, Fallen?" Her fur didn't bristle; she wasn't as fearful as I had thought. For her, it must have been a foal's tale.

"Oh yes, Princess Luna is doing better, Master," she added after a few moments, blinking several times, as if trying to grasp something. I put the book away, turning all my attention to Fallen.

"Explain it to me."

After she recounted the story and legend of Princess Luna, I was sure of one thing: princesses could be corrupted. If I could push one of them to the brink... it could be a powerful weapon, but a double-edged one. However, this idea that she could travel through dreams...

I couldn't help but hope that my new slaves wouldn't dream too vividly of my face or the path leading to my kingdom...

The day passed without any other notable incidents, and in the evening, I went to see what had been created as an entrance: hollow stones that were easy to move and blended perfectly with the surroundings.

I instructed my scouts to be as cautious as possible. Even though a part of me wanted to track them down, send their heads on the next train, I couldn't afford to...

I patiently waited for the return of the first group of scouts, indicating that the enemy soldiers had set up a camp not far away... They were following the tracks that my men and I had left, and the only countermeasure I had was this makeshift camouflage.

I was running out of choices. I would sleep with some of my men at the entrance, waiting to see if the ruse would work or not. It was a night to spend on alert, ready to react at the slightest sign of intrusion, but at least, they knew that their emperor would not hide like a coward.

I stood before an old man, a respected and honorable archaeologist. My translator stood by my side, and in my hand, I brandished my trusty Luger P08, a weapon that could instill terror in the heart of any history enthusiast.

I was in his office, surrounded by stacks of documents and books in disarray, an eclectic mix of old wooden shelves and modern metal furniture. The walls were covered with maps, photos of ancient ruins, and detailed drawings of archaeological finds.

A worn world map hung on the wall, carefully pinned to mark his expeditions and explored sites, some of which were familiar to me. Beside it, a shelf was brimming with excavation reports, field journals, and scientific journals. Bookcases overflowed with dusty volumes, containing accounts of travels and works on global archaeology.

"As I was saying, I am someone perfectly calm and reasonable," I said with a glacial smirk. "But I can also be violent when I am lied to!"

"You want to steal my work and take credit for my discoveries." Hardly had I heard the translation when I burst into laughter. My translator gave a slight smile, as we had worked together enough for him to know my methods.

"Before you tell me it belongs in a museum, I don't care about fame and science," my voice turned icy. "I just want the money this treasure would bring me. But I'm not a monster, I won't destroy anything, and I'll only take what has commercial value." Surprise was evident on the old archaeologist's face, my translator was smiling.

"I can pay you," he began with a dreadful accent, searching in the bag he held.

"You can never offer enough to risk my life. I have private collectors who fund me, and if I don't bring them anything to recoup their investment..." I cocked my Luger.

My interlocutor's eyes filled with fear, and he began to sweat, a dark stain spreading on his trousers.

"Where are your researches?" I pointed my finger at the trigger while fixing him with my icy eyes.

"In the office." I signaled to my translator, who opened the desk and quickly scanned the pages of a file before nodding at me. I didn't lower my weapon.

"And the rest?" The archaeologist was sweating profusely. "Don't take me for a fool. I want your physical copies." He articulated something, and I saw my translator remove the padding from his desk chair, retrieving another file before returning to my side.

"Thank you, and tell Saint Peter that I won't bother going before him." I pulled the trigger three times, twice in his chest and once in his head.

I woke up painfully from my memories to find my sentries asleep. I gently woke them before taking them a little further to give them a lesson. Their tails quickly tucked between their legs and their heads lowered, marking their submission...

The sentries withdrew quietly following my instructions. I approached the scout, straining my ears to catch any sound. Every noise, every breath, every step, everything was potentially important at this stage.

The ensuing silence was almost oppressive. We remained still, listening, watching for any sign of activity. Every moment counted...

05 Manipulation and Reflection

My heart rate was almost imperceptible, my breathing at a minimum. I stared at my scout's ears, knowing he had better hearing than me in moments like these. I scrutinized my scout's expression with my piercing eyes, hoping to read something in it. I heard some stones shifting, a presence getting closer. My rage urged me to charge headfirst.

Then, the noises began to fade, and my scout seemed to relax slightly. I didn't know how long we stayed there, on high alert on the ground. Finally, I decided to get up and dust off my armor.

I signaled to my man to be silent, and we moved away from the entrance before I spoke. "What did you hear?" I asked him.

"He's looking for what could have destroyed the hamlet, Boss. They're thinking it might be a dragon, even though the absence of tracks is making them nervous," he informed me. My gaze darkened.

"The absence of tracks?" I repeated, intrigued.

"Yes, Boss. Bandit told us to erase them... you weren't aware?" he asked, a bit surprised.

"No, I wasn't. There's a reason he's my right-hand man," I replied, displaying a smile that was both cold and satisfied. My team was efficient, that was undeniable.

I found my men, all struggling against fatigue, a bit further away. "Corporals, change of orders: a guard at the door, to be replaced every two hours, with 8 hours of rest after each shift," I commanded. Then, I turned to Sergeant Rock. "You, I want to see you tomorrow. It's time for you and my men to learn how to read and write." He looked at me in astonishment.

"Bandit is in charge of making sure the False Chord slave teaches civilians, but I will personally oversee your instruction. Any objections?" My voice was categorical, leaving little room for dissent.

"No, boss," he quickly replied, understanding it was a non-negotiable directive.

Perfect, see you tomorrow, Sergeant Rock," I said firmly. I walked away at a measured pace, making a brief public appearance and grabbing two takeout meals before heading to the throne room."

The door was still slightly warped from my anger, and I could see a mare pacing in circles, restrained by her chains.

"At least you're not pulling on them anymore, my Fallen," I said calmly. She jumped at my voice; her level of attention must have been particularly low. "I brought something to eat."

"Uh... I... Thank you, master," she stammered. I settled into my throne, handing the package to Fallen before placing my helmet in its usual spot and starting to eat the meal I had taken, mostly mushrooms and various wild vegetables.

Fallen looked at me suspiciously as I continued to eat. "You know, Fallen, there's something that puzzles me," I told her. "With all the magic that Equestria possesses, why haven't they conquered the world?"

She seemed to think for a moment before responding. "Princess Celestia and Princess Luna are benevolent leaders. They don't aspire to domination. They prefer to maintain harmony and peace in their own realm, master."

"I suppose Princess Twilight has the same mentality?" It was the kind of conversation that could yield a lot of information without her realizing it.

"Yes, she created the School of Friendship and has saved Equestria from many threats, master," she replied. She seemed eager to defend Twilight Sparkle's reputation.

"Hmm, I see. Where I come from, it's not like that at all," I said curtly. "We thrive on war, conflict, luxury, and some get lost in their selfish desires. It's a cruel world where the strongest get what they want through violence or alliances."

I observed Fallen's reaction, trying to gauge whether this perspective shocked or surprised her. It was another facet of our conversation, a way to show her the fundamental differences between our worlds and perhaps draw her into mine.

"In my world, I was very good at this game. Between us, Fallen, there were many times when death should have had me, but I'm still here," I let a slight pause hang in the air. "Because I wasn't afraid to get my hands dirty and I knew how to force the hand of fate." I finished my meal quietly while Fallen was lost in her thoughts. My words must have created a deep discomfort in her; she was clearly pondering.

I gave her a quick stroke on the mane "Think about what I told you my Fallen" before picking up one of the magic books and leaving.

I headed towards Menial Horned's cell, hoping he was still capable of understanding what I would say. Sensory isolation beyond twenty-four hours could disorient a normal man, let alone a foal...

Upon arriving at his cell, I observed Menial Horned, attentive to his reaction as I opened the door. "Menial, it's me. You remember me, don't you?" My voice was calm but firm, seeking to establish a connection with him. I entered, removing his blindfold and untying his front legs before taking one of his hooves in my hand.

"Who... You're not real," his voice was distant.

I held Menial's hoof firmly, my piercing gaze fixed on his. "Of course I'm real, Menial. You have nothing to fear from me. I'm here to get you out of this dark place and bring you back into the light."

I slightly released my grip to give him a semblance of comfort, while maintaining physical contact to keep his attention. "We have a great mission to accomplish together, Menial. You will be one of my closest advisors, someone I can rely on."

I spoke to him with confidence, using words to weave a web of trust. "You can count on me, and I know I can count on you. Together, we will be an unbeatable team, Menial."

I let a moment of silence hang, giving him the opportunity to reflect on my words. My smile seemed benevolent, but beneath my façade was calculated manipulation.

"We have a lot of work to do, Menial," I continued, while maintaining an encouraging tone. "I will teach you everything you need to know to be an effective advisor. Together, we will change the fate of our empire."

I explained our plan, emphasizing his crucial role in its execution. "You have immense potential, Menial. We will harness it and ensure your name is engraved in history."

I promised to get him out of his cell when the time came, while insisting he must be patient. "Patience is a virtue, Menial. Soon, everything will be in place, and we can act."

I stood up slowly, patting his shoulder with assurance. "I believe in you, Menial. Together, we are invincible." Then, I left his cell, leaving him with the light, along with the magic book and a glimmer of hope in his eyes.

This process would need to be repeated many times in order to reshape his memory, and I need to write a backstory for him...

I paused for a moment in my personal alcohol reserve, pouring myself a drink. "To the future of the empire," I murmured, raising my glass. I took a sip while pondering how I could integrate auxiliaries into my army. It would require a delicate approach, but it was a crucial step; magic users would eventually become indispensable.

I returned to the throne room, two glass in hand. Fallen still seemed lost in thought but had finished her meal, I kindly left her a glass of alcohol. "It will do you good, my Fallen." I sat on my throne, keeping an eye on her to see if she would drink it. She drank slowly, seeming surprised by the taste. I smiled, shifting my attention away from her.

I took advantage of the evening to deepen my knowledge of the different species in Equestria. If only I could get my hands on some changelings, I could have eyes and ears everywhere...

06 Rejection and anger.

Five days since Argos' departure, the persistent presence of these ponies grated on my nerves. I had the ability to eliminate them, but I knew it would be a grave mistake. Wisdom prevailed over impulse.

Conversations with my Fallen had revealed valuable information. Learning that Equestria possessed a version of gunpowder and did not employ it for military purposes was a crucial discovery, though I kept it secret. This opened up new strategic possibilities.

The prospect of acquiring cannons and explosive charges presented fresh opportunities for my burgeoning empire. Even though the production of modern firearms remained out of reach, the potential technological advancements were promising.

I needed to personally go to Filly Delphia, accompanied by some of my guards. This went against my preference for discretion and might potentially expose my existence, but I had no choice. I needed this tactical advantage!

Moreover, according to Fallen and the descriptions in the various books I possessed, the castle of Canterlot was partially suspended in the void…

As I quickly pondered what else I could do during my stay in the city, my Fallen remained silent on my lap. I considered buying her something, a small gesture to thank her for the information. This thought made me smile; she had become more than just a pet.

"Metal Heart, the mercenary," I murmured to myself. Yes, that would be a good alias.

"Excuse me, master?" Fallen looked up at me.

"Nothing important, my Fallen," I said, gently scratching her neck. "Have you thought about what I told you yesterday?"

She seemed hesitant but finally nodded. "Yes, master..." She seemed to have something to ask, and it was evident in her eyes.

"Ask your question. There's no need to be afraid of me all the time," I sighed.

"You mentioned that you 'got your hands dirty,' master," she finally said, her gaze filled with curiosity. I gently stroked her mane.

"It's probably hard to believe, but I come from a wealthy family. I had access to everything I wanted as a child." I waited for her reaction.

"But then why?" she asked, clearly intrigued. It was time to soften the tone a bit.

"Let's just say my lifestyle choices didn't sit well with them, and I was given an ultimatum," I stated, slightly twisting the truth.

"Your lifestyle choices, master?" Her face expressed genuine curiosity.

"Yes, the adventure, the thrill of finding treasures no one had ever seen, fighting to claim them, and tracking them down," I added, letting a nostalgic smile light up my face.

"But why, master, you say you had everything?" Fallen asked.

"I was missing this, the freedom to do as I please, the rush of ending up in a shootout, and the terror in the eyes of those who wanted to thwart me," I sighed. "But it seems to me that your kind is incapable of feeling that call."... "And yet you, Fallen, have the soul of an explorer, and yet I hadn't seen that fire in you."

Fallen seemed lost in her thoughts, thinking quickly. I looked at her tenderly, trying to capture her gaze. "I can let you taste that freedom, let you feel the adrenaline that makes your head spin, let you sense the possibility of life or death over anyone. And like me, force fate's hand." I sought her lips, kissing her with all the tenderness I had left. "You just have to say you want it."

Fallen returned my kiss, her eyes still hesitant. She took a deep breath, and my victory seemed complete. She was finally going to give in! But then, she whispered, "I... I can't..."

Something broke inside me at that moment. I didn't have the strength to be angry or sad. Just a feeling I hadn't felt in a long time, a form of loneliness.

I withdrew gently, trying to mask my disappointment behind a faint smile. "I understand, my Fallen," I said in a gentle voice. "Everyone has their limits and choices to make."

I set her down on the ground before rising from my throne, taking a moment to adjust my armor. Then, I approached her and gently stroked her mane. "You are free to make your own decisions, slave or not."

She lowered her eyes, visibly disturbed. I gave her one final smile, then headed towards the exit. The weight of my loneliness felt heavier than ever before, even in my former life, I had partners in crime, and this was the first time it had been denied to me.

I made my way to the training hall of my soldiers, a vast room with rough stone walls, lit by strategically placed torches. The air was heavy with the scent of wood, sweat, and metal. The floor was covered with straw and wood chips to cushion impacts.

In the center of the room, there was a large open space, surrounded by wooden training dummies bearing the marks of the numerous assaults they had endured. Some were equipped with armor to simulate heavier opponents.

With a single punch, I tore through the armored dummy, sending it crashing against the back wall in a mix of wood and metal shards. As I caught my breath, I couldn't understand why she had refused my offer, nor the origin of this growing loneliness within me. However, I knew one thing: she would eventually accept my offer when she saw my empire grow, and I would offer her absolute freedom.

"She will be like me," I murmured, calming myself as best I could while creating a couple of cracks in the wall.

I left the room a few minutes later, my gauntlets in tatters, while my hands remained unscathed. The rage had found its outlet, but the loneliness still lingered.

I didn't return to the throne room, choosing instead to stroll along the corridors and galleries that comprised the beginning of my budding empire. I left my shredded gauntlets with the blacksmith, joking that I had pushed too hard in my training.

The activity of my kingdom continued to buzz around me, the sounds of the forge and the conversations of the soldiers filling the air.

I spotted Bandit running towards the throne room. Without any difficulty, I caught up to him. "Are you looking for me, Bandit?"

"Boss, The ponies have captured Argos." I restrained myself from screaming in rage, inhaling and exhaling deeply.

"... I'll go get him, alone," I announced with a firm voice. I headed quickly and heavily towards the entrance of my cave, Bandit following me, trying to reason with me. In a tone that was far too calm, I cut him off: "Bandit, I am currently furious. I advise against questioning my orders." It was enough to almost petrify him on the spot.

I emerged from the cave, determined to retrieve Argos. My mind was a storm of focused rage. I thought of nothing else but rescuing my men. The wind whipped against my face, and I ran as fast as my legs would carry me.

Climbing a tree, I spotted a campfire in the distance and a silhouette that seemed to be hovering in the air, likely a Pegasus.

I might have wanted to be kind, but when one of my men is harmed, consequences must be faced.

I descended from the tree with agility, approaching the campfire. The silhouette drew nearer, revealing a Pegasus with sparkling wings in a brilliant suit of golden armor, a lance pointed towards me.

"Halt in the name of Princess Twilight, state your identity!" I saw silhouettes moving in the distance, undoubtedly his comrades.

"The Hand of Death," I grabbed his lance, pulling him towards me, before seizing his helmet with my other hand and squeezing slowly while his colleagues panicked, rushing over. His screams of pain and terror began to echo through the forest.

The Pegasus's colleagues emerged from the darkness, two earth ponies and another Pegasus, panicked by the scene unfolding before them. They saw their comrade struggling with me, unable to do much to help him.

"Who is the highest-ranking among you?" I restrained my anger as best I could, feeling the insect in my hand struggle as best it could. The Pegasus, who stood slightly back, timidly raised his hoof.

"It's me, I'm the sergeant."

"Stay put, sergeant," I roared imperiously. "You have just committed the gravest mistake of your existence." Seizing the Pegasus's lance with a swift motion, I hurled it with devastating fury, burying it deep into the ground through the sergeant's wing.

The two earth ponies charged towards me, amidst the screams of pain from their sergeant, whose wing was impaled. With a sinister crack, I released the Pegasus, his helmet finally compressing his skull.

I was not a master of hand-to-hand combat, but with my current power, it was like crushing insects... Unfortunately, I had no desire to have fun, preferring to grant them the mercy of a quick death with a sharp kick to the first pony, I shattered and drove the front of his armor into his chest.

As for the second one, he was less fortunate. His lance shattered against my armor. Seizing him by the tail before he could retreat, then delivered a fatal blow to his neck.

Turning to the sergeant still alive, his face contorted in terror, I declared in a frigid voice, "We will have a very long conversation, you and I. But that will be for later." I dragged him behind me by his mane.

Argos was on his knees, hands tied. I quickly freed him. "Where are my two men?" I asked, tension in my voice.

"He's organizing the departure of the other pack, my emperor." A faint smile lit up my face.

"Perfect, Argos."

I returned, effortlessly carrying the three corpses as well as the injured sergeant. It wouldn't be long before their absence was noticed. But the sergeant would be a vital source of information...

07 Filly Delphia

Author's Note

I used the comics My Little Pony: Friends Forever 14 as a reference for the city of Filly Delphia

07 Filly Delphia

I let Bandit and Argos handle the interrogation of the enemy sergeant. Meanwhile, I prepared to welcome my new subjects, proudly displaying the Eternal Canine Diamond. Although their numbers were modest, about a dozen fresh recruits and a few slaves arrived willingly, bringing additional reinforcements along with crates of sulfur blocks.

Sulfur could prove useful if I find a way to manufacture catapults. After all, the sulfurous gas could terrify anyone, especially in a world where they have not yet experienced chemical warfare.

My Fallen was on my lap, still troubled by our last conversation. She avoided my gaze, which made me reflect on ponies' capacity for true violence. Perhaps I should simply push her to become more like me...

Ideas and plans raced through my mind until the arrival of my new subjects. Sergeant Rock stood to my left, Bandit to my right. I had drinks served to them upon their arrival, then signaled for Fallen to come down. Rising from my throne, I took off my helmet before beginning to speak.

"You have chosen to join the ranks of my empire, to place your trust in me, a stranger in your world. Yet, I seek not merely to conquer, but to build a world where freedom, strength, and loyalty will reign supreme." I scrutinized each of them, letting a heavy silence hang in the air. "Each of you holds a vital role in shaping our future. Your collective efforts will forge our destiny. The Diamond Dog will become the dominant race."

A solemn pause preceded my gesture of raising my glass. "My Empire guarantees you the means to thrive and excel in your roles. Whether you choose to serve in our ranks or contribute in different ways to our cause, opportunities for learning, growth, and development will be provided to you."

"Welcome to the Diamond Empire!" My tone was commanding, marking the beginning of their incorporation. I took a hearty sip and let my right-hand man and Sergeant Rock give a more detailed portrait of what they could expect now.

I, on my side, prepared for my expedition to Filly Delphia. My strength easily allowed me to carry everything I needed, although my foreign appearance could work against me.

Knowing I had no way of knowing the city, the alias Metal Heart, the Mercenary, could be useful to me.

"Bandit, I'm temporarily entrusting you with control of the empire," I said in a calm tone. Surprise was visible on his face, as well as on Fallen's. "I need to go fetch some... tools."

"Boss, are you sure?" he inquired. I looked at my right-hand man with an amused smile.

"Consider this a test. If the empire is still standing when I return, you will have proven that I can leave to accompany my men on the battlefields or for special operations." I approached him and whispered, "And give Fallen a really hard time."

Bandit didn't understand why, "Uh, yes, Boss."

"Perfect. I'll leave at dawn tomorrow. I should be back in..." I consulted the map, realizing that the journey to Filly Delphia would take about a day. "Four days," I told him. "You have carte blanche to handle any issues during my absence, except for death sentences."

"Understood, boss," he replied, visibly overwhelmed by the magnitude of the task.

"One last thing: find someone to get the pony talking. I want to know everything he might say about Equestria's defenses." I sighed. "And relax. You wouldn't be my right-hand man if I didn't think you were capable."

"I... Thank you, boss." I signaled to him that he could leave before turning back to Fallen as a worried Bandit exited the room.

"I will be away for a while, my Fallen. Does the emperor in me have the right to spend a pleasant moment in your company?" Doubt was evident in her eyes. She didn't know if it was a test or if I genuinely wanted her opinion.

I removed my helmet, a slight smile on my lips. "Or if you'd rather we talk, Fallen, that works for me too..."

Fallen hesitated for a moment, then finally mustered a shy smile. "I... I would prefer to talk, Master," she replied in a gentle voice.

I scrutinized Fallen with a piercing gaze, observing every reaction, every subtle detail of her expression. "Very well, then we shall talk," I said in a deep voice. Fallen seemed more at ease, her responses becoming more assured.

We touched on various topics, but quickly I realized that the ponies' mundane matters held little interest for me. I knew questioning Fallen about her past would be delicate, so the conversation naturally drifted towards mine.

The dark gleam of my stories seemed to both fascinate and frighten Fallen. I shared bloody moments, but also times of pleasure in discovering historical places.

As night began to settle in, I stood up, my gaze still as sharp. "It's time for me to leave, Fallen. Tomorrow, at dawn, I must go to Filly Delphia." I took the initiative to gently hold her, placing a light kiss on her neck. "Goodnight, Fallen," I murmured.

She stammered a soft "Goodnight, Master," her eyes expressing a mix of confusion and gratitude. As I walked away, I once again felt that loneliness.

I rose at dawn, donning armor less imposing than my usual attire, leaving my face and arms exposed. This reduced the pressure I could exert but also softened my appearance, making me appear slightly less threatening.

I checked my supplies and took two pouches full of gemstones that the former boss had been polite enough to leave for me. I figured I needed a cape to complete my current attire. I would treat myself to this small pleasure in the city, if the ponies didn't flee at the sight of me.

I made a detour to the throne room, retrieving The Eternal Canine Diamond, while doing my best not to wake my Fallen. I watched her sleep for a few moments before departing. If Bandit followed my instructions, she would be happy upon my return.

I walked through the long corridors to the exit of my empire.

I traversed the forest, following the road, and reached Filly Delphia in less than four hours.

I thought that nothing could surprise me anymore from these ponies, but I was wrong. How, in a feudal era with limited technology, were they able to build such a modern city, complete with skyscrapers? From a distance, the city slightly resembled a city I had visited before... I wondered if this type of commerce existed here too. The sun was starting to set.

I approached the city without any trouble. I saw police officers, and citizens stared at me as if I were a monster, but no one dared to stand in my way or make any inappropriate comments about my appearance. They seemed to have a well-developed survival instinct, after all!

But I had to face it, I had to... ask for directions. I approached at a slow pace towards a police officer who seemed less fearful than the others, and in a calm yet imposing voice, I said, "Excuse me, officer. My name is Metal Heart. Could you point me to a place where I could rest?"

The police officer scrutinized me with suspicion, his eyes wavering between fear and curiosity.

"Metal Heart, huh?" he said, his eyebrows slightly furrowed. "You're new in town, I presume?"

"Indeed," I replied calmly, carefully concealing my intimidating aura. "I come from a bit further than most." The tension in the air eased slightly.

He seemed a bit more at ease after my response. "Well, I'm not sure the hotels would be to your size..." He hesitated for a moment. "...unless you'd prefer a luxury hotel." His words betrayed a hint of curiosity.

"I'm not really sure if I can't afford it," my voice conveyed a slight embarrassment, skillfully hiding the true nature of my origins.

"You're welcome in this city as long as you don't cause any trouble, Mr. Metal Heart," he declared, before our conversation was interrupted by a flash of light. A pony, armed with a camera and wearing a journalist's hat, had taken a photo.

I turned sharply to the journalist, giving him a dark look. "You could have at least asked for my consent." He stammered out apologies, clearly nervous, and hastily retreated, realizing he might have incurred my wrath.

I sighed, "Sorry, Officer. Just tired of being a sideshow, thank you for the information."

As I wandered through the bustling streets of Filly Delphia, I eventually arrived in a district that seemed to be the draconic counterpart of the city. Dragons of all sizes went about their business, creating a truly unique atmosphere. I had to admit, it piqued my curiosity.

I continued on, stopping from time to time to observe the shops and activities that presented themselves. I wondered if there were valuable resources or information to be gleaned here, in this part of the city that seemed less frequented by ponies.

Finally, I decided to ask one of the dragons if they knew of a place where I could spend the night. Strangely, the dragons seemed to be more open and less scrutinizing than the ponies in this city.

I settled into a hotel run by a pink and red dragoness, who preferred to be paid in gemstones...

As I settled in, I wondered if it might be possible to enjoy her hospitality more deeply.

09 Train and return

I moved through the town, irritated by this pony's lack of respect for my presence. He had failed to understand his own position, and it gave me a rather straightforward idea. Among the six, Twilight was undoubtedly the most formidable, but what if they were reduced to five?

Of course, dealing with the princess was a priority, but the Friendship Journal also mentioned the Apple farm. Sending a package to that address in this world shouldn't be too difficult.

I went to a store, determined, and bought a large quantity of nails. Then, I headed to a prank shop to pick up a triggering mechanism.

This was the first time I attempted to create such a device, and probably the last. While most ponies faced little risk in making their own pranks, I was dealing with the potential of a 360-degree explosion with nails.

I wasn't entirely sure it would work, and at worst, the explosion might occur during transportation. Once at the equivalent of a post office, I affixed a small "fragile" sticker and hastily wrote: "Ponyville, Apple Farm, For Applejack only !"

The postman assured me the mail should be delivered within the week.

I quickly gathered my belongings, then headed to the train station without even needing to ask for the schedule. A brochure was there, offering overnight trains, perfect.

All that was left was to craft an explosive charge, maybe even add a bit of sulfur to destabilize all of Equestria.

Ideas continued to swirl in my head as I started to leave the town. The ponies were truly easy targets, how could so many people lose to them?

This question remained unanswered in my mind.

I entered my mountain, greeted by the guard as I entered the secret passage.

"Welcome back, my Emperor," he greeted me. I gave him a grateful smile before heading towards my quarters. It was time to change, I couldn't stand being so exposed any longer.

After a quick shower, I put on my full armor again, adding my new cape that matched perfectly with the ensemble.

Leaving behind what I had retrieved in my mountain, I went out for a walk in the city. I greeted my people and my soldiers, picking up two takeaway meals for lunch. Finally, I headed to the throne room, ready to face my responsibilities as Emperor.

The door was finally straightened, allowing my entrance. Bandit, upon seeing me, stood on his hind legs, exclaiming, "Boss, you're back!"

"Yes, and I expect a comprehensive written report on what happened during my absence, Bandit..." My gaze swept the room, searching for Fallen. She was in her usual spot, but she seemed particularly weakened. Strangely, a faint smile graced her lips as she looked at me.

It seemed that Bandit had deprived her of sleep and food in my absence. I didn't like such methods being used on her, but it appeared to be yielding results already.

"I want Sergeant Rock, Argos, and you to convene in four hours to explain everything that happened in my absence." I gestured for him to leave as I took my place on the throne. Setting my helmet to the right once more, I signaled for Fallen to approach.

She came slowly, but with a slight glint of happiness to see me again. I helped her onto my lap, giving her a light kiss on the forehead before handing her one of the two meals I had taken for her. I began to eat at the same time.

"How are you feeling, my Fallen?" I asked softly, stroking her mane. "You look exhausted." Although my methods were unscrupulous, her response affirmed the picture her fruits had painted.

A tear trickled down her cheek as she looked up at me. "I'm just a little tired, but I'll be okay. I'm so glad you're back, Master," a sincere smile on her face.

I held her gently against me. "I'm glad to be back, Fallen. Finish your meal, I have something for you." I continued to caress her as she ate.

She finished eating, and I handed her the small box containing the heart-shaped pendant, delicately adorned with a small diamond at its center.

Fallen's eyes lit up with astonishment and emotion as she opened the little box and discovered the heart-shaped pendant. Her delicate hoof gently brushed the smooth surface, then slid over the small diamond that shone like a star.

She looked up at me, her eyes shining with deep gratitude and surprise. Words seemed to escape her.

"For you, my Fallen," I murmured softly, my voice carrying a tenderness I didn't know I was capable of feeling.

She nodded gently, the emotion evident in her gaze.

It was a simple moment, but laden with meaning. It was my way of showing her, or perhaps convincing her, that even in my brutality and bloody past, there was still tenderness. And she would be like me.

I wanted to see her by my side, strong and determined, leading our army with the same fervor as myself. To feel that fervor burning in her eyes, and most importantly, to see her embrace the dark part that resides in me.

She whispered a sincere "thank you," her voice soft and melodious echoing in my ears. Yet, words seemed to struggle to convey the full extent of her feelings. Then, with tranquil grace, she stood up and nestled against me, her head naturally finding its place on my shoulder.

With a calm and determined gesture, I fastened the necklace around her neck. My lips sought hers with an intensity heightened since our last encounter. She responded with equal passion, showing no reluctance as I swiftly cleared the table to lay her delicate form upon it.

The echoes of her pleasure-filled sighs resonated in my throne room.

I had made progress, taking another step towards fulfilling my purpose. However, I knew the road ahead was still long. It would take time and patience to see her fully become the person I wished her to be.

Fallen slept peacefully against me, oblivious to the dark realities unfolding around her. Argos, Sergeant Rock, and Bandit presented me with written reports, which I quickly skimmed through. The literacy rate of my people was improving, and our first school had opened its doors. The books I owned had been copied and reworked for teaching, and the military equipment had been standardized and optimized for my soldiers.

"Has the pegasus officer spoken?" I read, waiting for the answers that came too slowly for my liking. The silence persisted, until Sergeant Rock spoke in a deep voice.

"No, my emperor, we have not been able to make him talk." I looked up from the report to see that the sergeant had his tail between his legs.

"I will handle it then" My cruel smile would have frightened anyone. ...

08 Fireworks and Commerce

I woke up several times during the night, disturbed by footsteps passing by my door. By morning, the bags under my eyes were undeniable.

Returning the keys to my room, I finally posed the question that had been gnawing at me, wearing a falsely friendly smile and adopting a gentle tone. "Excuse me, ma'am, but would you happen to know where I could find fireworks? It's soon my friend's birthday."

The woman stared at me for a moment, seeming to assess my request. Then, she gestured in a direction with a nod of her head. "Go straight to the intersection, turn left, and continue until you reach Mr. Sullivan's shop. You can't miss it."

"Thank you so much, ma'am. You've been a great help," I replied with a smile that aimed to be warm.

I followed her directions, and indeed, I found Mr. Sullivan's shop without difficulty. A bell tinkled as I entered. The owner, a pony with an amiable appearance, turned to me with a strained smile, looking me up and down several times.

"Hello, how can I assist you?" he seemed uneasy.

"Good day, sir. I'm in search of fireworks for a special event. Would you have a selection to offer?" I asked politely, making sure to keep a neutral tone.

Unfortunately, his fireworks were far from as impressive as I wanted them to be. Creating explosives with a risk of being particularly complicated, and very inefficient, I played along...

"Do you have quite a selection, do you make them yourself?" I didn't even have to pretend to be interested, his answer truly intrigued me.

"Oh certainly, yes, I can assure you all my materials are of the highest quality." That means he has gunpowder.

"Do you make them in town, isn't that a bit dangerous?"

Mr. Sullivan smiled proudly. "I'm very careful in my methods, sir. Safety is my priority, and all necessary precautions are taken to ensure that my customers leave satisfied and safely."

"I see, it's reassuring to know you're so professional," I responded appreciatively. "I suppose you use gunpowder in your creations, don't you?"

"Absolutely. It's the essential ingredient to give our fireworks their brilliance and scope. I source it from the finest suppliers to ensure the quality of my products."

I nodded, satisfied with the response. "Well, I must say you've convinced me. I'll take an assortment of your most spectacular fireworks. It's for a very special event."

Mr. Sullivan seemed delighted with my decision and began to prepare my order, not asking questions about the quantity, after all, I paid upfront. As he packed the items, I discreetly glanced around the shop, looking for other clues about the production of explosives. I spotted a few elements that seemed relevant to my future projects.

Once my order was ready, I paid for it and took it with a thankful smile. "Thank you very much, Mr. Sullivan. You've been a great help."

"It's been a pleasure serving you. Feel free to come back if you need more fireworks in the future," he replied with a warm smile.

I left the shop with my precious cargo, a large wooden crate with the label, 'joy of giving and pleasure of receiving,' aware that I had obtained what I needed.

I would soon have the opportunity to test these fireworks in a very specific context.

I had what I needed, but both my Fallen and I deserved a little something special.

Starting with a bit of selfish pleasure, I entered a store oozing with high fashion, bourgeois eyes observing me, likely shocked by my appearance, no doubt taken aback by the warrior attire I wore.

In many ways, it brought back pleasant memories. Yet this time, the owner was unfamiliar to me.

A mare with impeccably groomed mane approached me, accompanied by a sturdy stallion dressed in black. Before she could even speak, I greeted her courteously but with firmness, "Good day, I've been invited to a private event in Canterlot in a few days. I'll be needing a new cape of the highest possible quality." Although I wasn't a regular at such places, I easily surmised that the keywords 'private event' combined with the name of a capital city and a request for the highest quality possible would suffice to smooth this kind of situation.

The mare seemed reassured by my words and nodded respectfully, giving a discreet signal to the security agent. "Of course, sir. It would be an honor for us to help you find the perfect cape for this occasion. You're at Frou-Frou Couture, where we excel in the art of haute couture. Please, follow me."

She led me through the aisles of the shop, where a multitude of capes and elegant outfits were displayed. "We have a wide range of capes in silk, satin, and velvet, all designed to meet the demands of our most discerning clients." Perfect. I was confident it might be a challenge to find something in my size here.

While she presented the various options, I remained focused on my goal: finding the perfect cape. Soon, my attention was captivated by a velvet cape in a deep black, adorned with silver embroidery and lined with red silk. The elegantly simple piece drew me in.

"I believe this one would suit the occasion, what do you think?" the mare inquired, noting my interest.

I took the cape in my hands, appreciating the quality of the fabrics and examining the embroidery. "This is exactly what I was looking for. I'll take it."

The mare seemed pleased with my decision. "Excellent choice, sir. We'll take your measurements to ensure a perfect fit. Please, follow me."

As she took my measurements, I knew this cape would add a touch of elegance to my wardrobe for the days ahead. Unfortunately, I couldn't suppress a smile, but it wasn't one that brought comfort. It was cold, penetrating, and instinctively made the mare tremble.

This cape will be perfect when I wear my full armor, I thought. I wondered if magic had the power to bring it to life, to make it float and strike those dramatic poses, even in the absence of wind.

I paid once more in gemstones, had the cape wrapped, and before leaving, I asked in a calm but determined voice, "By the way, would you have any recommendations for a jeweler? I'm planning to purchase a gift for a longtime friend."

"I highly recommend Madame Sparkle's jewelry shop, on the main street. Her creations are exquisite and are greatly appreciated by those looking for something special for their loved ones," the mare replied with a polite smile.

I thanked her with a nod and exited the store.

I followed her instructions and stood before the jewelry store, scrutinizing the pieces displayed in the window. An extensive collection of necklaces and bracelets lay before me. I must humbly admit my ignorance when it comes to contemporary jewelry, usually favoring antique pieces.

However, a small pendant caught my eye, for both symbolic and slightly ironic reasons. It was a delicate red heart adorned with a small diamond in its center. I knew Fallen would appreciate it, and it would give me a reason to detach her... With determined steps, I entered the store, indifferent to the surprised and disapproving looks directed at me, even more so than before.

I headed straight for the counter. A unicorn locked eyes with me, slightly intimidated by my imposing stature and icy gaze. "How much for the heart-shaped pendant in the showcase?" I asked in a calm yet imposing voice.

The pony behind the counter seemed somewhat nervous, likely due to my imposing presence. She stammered a few words, giving an exorbitant price for the pendant. My impassive gaze did not waver. Without a word, I pulled out a handful of gemstones and placed them on the counter, paying the requested price.

I surveyed the various packaging options. "Put it in a special wrapping for a special mare."

As I prepared to leave the shop, my gaze met that of the saleswoman, who seemed to be under an invisible pressure. Unconsciously, my imposing aura must have made her uncomfortable. I gave her a brief nod, expressing a silent thank you, before departing.

Once outside, I realized I had inadvertently broken character... This Fallen was truly a special mare to me. Perhaps I would give her a chance to be truly closer to me once she became like me.

I returned to the hotel as the afternoon began, retrieving a room and taking stock of what I had. All that remained were the train schedules, details about the mode of transportation, and a bit more explosives for my projects.

Strolled around, wondering what to do with the rest of my day. I came to a sudden halt upon seeing the newspaper. My face adorned the front page, under the enigmatic title: Who Is This Metal Heart? . Ok, some pony is going to put to test my first pipe bomb ...