Chapters The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
January 22, 1012 A.G
It was a chili winter night in the grand city of Canterlot. And right now, 22-year-old Atlas Jupiter Yukon was walking to the Castle’s entrance to meet up with Celestia so they can go on their date.
The last time we saw him, he was just an ordinary guy with magical powers. But ever since marrying Celestia back in October, he is now the emperor of Equestria. The first non-pony to become a member of the Faust royal family.
Becoming royalty was just as Atlas expected it to be. Big coronation, getting a new crown and going to parties with nobles.
But despite his new social status, he tries to live as normal of a life as possible.
When he was walking through the castle’s atrium, he found Galaxia leaning against the wall deep in thought.
“Good evening, Galaxia.” Atlas greeted.
This snapped Galaxia out of her thoughts. “Oh, good evening, Emperor.”
Atlas rolled his eyes and then smiled. “You know you don’t need to call me that. We’re family after all.”
“I know. I just like seeing your reaction.” She teased. “So how are you doing this evening?”
“I’m doing great. I’m going to take Celestia to the Golden Circle tonight.”
“Really now? I thought you was going to choose somewhere else.”
“I was, but I decided to go somewhere fancy this time. Before I go, can I ask you something?”
“Sure.”
“Are you ok? I noticed that you were thinking about something when I came in here.”
“Not really. Earlier today, I was using my hologram to check on universe, as I usually do, then it started going haywire before sunset. I thought that I had to give it a rest, so I did. Then I started to have a strange feeling that something is going on the cosmos. And the light show we’re getting tonight only raise my suspicion even further.”
Above the mountain city was a beautiful aurora borealis. The ray of colors that were in the night sky would make anyone look at it with awe.
“You think whatever is happening in outer space is related to the aurora borealis?”
“Yeah. It’s beautiful don’t get me wrong, but it very unusual for this natural phenomenon to happen anywhere outside of the arctic regions, let alone the entire planet.”
“Maybe it’s just one big coincidence.” Atlas said.
“I hope so. But if it isn’t, I’ll be able to deal with it.”
Atlas checked his watch. “I have to get going. It was nice talking to you, Galaxia. I’ll see you later.”
“Bye Atlas, have a nice date.”
After her son-in-law was out of her sight, Galaxia decided to go to the castle library to relax.
===•••===
It was a cold winter night in the city that never sleeps, and in the borough of Brooklyn there was a black woman in her late 40s, walking back home after a long shift at Brooklyn medical.
The snow underneath her shoes crunched with each step as her black hair flowed in the freezing wind.
Her name is Stephanie Nancy Yukon.
After 20 minutes of walking, she finally arrived at her two-story apartment.
“Andrew, I’m home.” Stephanie announced after she put her jacket.
“Welcome home, Stephanie. I’m in the living room.” Her husband replied in a British accent.
After she put her purse down, she walked into the living room where she found her husband relaxing on the couch while watching TV.
He is a white guy with soft brown hair in his late 40s. He is also taller than Stephanie. This is former astronaut, now NASA scientist Andrew Thomas Yukon.
“How’s your day, honey?” Andrew asks before Stephanie kissed him on the cheek.
“Hectic as usual, but I have no complaints. You?”
“I had a slow day today. But some of my work friends were asked to stay at work a few hours longer.”
“That’s unusual. Why is that?” Stephanie asks.
“Have you seen the northern light show that is happening over the city?”
“Yeah, it’s so beautiful. I even took some pictures of it while I was coming back home. Why do you ask?”
“Because it turns out this light show is happening all over the planet.”
“Is that even possible?”
“It shouldn’t be. Heck, all the major news channels have been talking about it all evening and some scientists are confused on what’s causing it in the first place.” Andrew stated.
“If I was in the shoes, I would be confused as well. But if there’s one thing I know, the boys would’ve loved to see this.” Stephanie replied, but quickly realized what she just said out loud. She looked over to her husband to see that he was now sad.
Mentioning their long loss sons was a pretty sensitive subject for both of them. Or anyone in their family. When they first heard of what happened to them, it felt like someone had stabbed them right in the heart. But when their friends described how they disappeared, it was like something out of a weird sci-fi novel. They couldn’t believe it. They wondered why and how this happened in the first place. Everyone else thought the same thing as well.
News of what happened to them spread like wildfire and quickly became one of the most famous missing persons cases in the Northeast US and Southern Canada. Thousands of people from both nations volunteer to search for them. But after years of searching and media attention, people gave up hope. Some family and friends also did as well.
Obviously, Stephanie and Andrew were devastated when the searches when the searches were unsuccessful. And they would’ve fell into a deep depression if it wasn’t for everyone around them and each other.
“I’m sorry.” She began. “I just-“
“It’s all right, Step. They would like to see something like this. I wish I could just see them again.”
Stephanie sat down next to him and gave him a hug. “Me too, Andy. Me too.”
===•••===
The moment the sun started to rise, Galaxia woke up and stretched her arms. She looked on her right to see that her husband was still sleeping peacefully. Unlike her, Nebula was the type to sleep in.
“I will see you later, my love.” She whispered before kissing him on the forehead and getting out of bed to get ready for the day.
After Galaxia arrived in her office, she sat down in her office chair and reached over for a small device that was shaped like a three-point star.
She brought it to the center of her desk and tap its center, which activated it and projected a large hologram that showed all the galaxies in her domain. Every morning and evening, Galaxia checks on her galactic realm to make sure that everything was running smoothly.
Some galaxies like the Milky Way, gets more attention from her than other since most of them have barely anything going on.
After a while, Galaxia decided to check on Equis and Earth before turning off her hologram for the day. Then she noticed a faint purple and blue line that stretched from Equis to Earth.
She zoomed in and her eyes wide when she saw its label. “Orion’s passage.”
===•••===
Apollo was in Luna‘s office, helping his fiancé with some paperwork when they both heard a knock on the door.
“Come in.”
The door open, revealing Raven inkwell. She entered the room and bowed. “Empress Luna, Emperor consort Apollo, Galaxia wants to both of you to come to her office immediately.”
“What for?” Luna asks.
“She didn’t say. I’m sorry.”
“It’s all right. You’re just doing your job.” Apollo said.
“Thank you for your understanding your majesty.”
“I wonder what your mom wants to tell us.” Apollo said.
“Me too, but I have a feeling that it’s something big.” Luna lit her horn and teleported herself and Apollo in front of her mother’s office door.
They entered the office and saw that Atlas, Nebula, Celestia, Artemis, and Twilight were there as well.
“Finally, all of you are here. I’m assuming that you have some questions on why I gathered you all here.” Galaxia said.
“We do. This is the first time you have ever summoned us for an emergency meeting.” Twilight said as she rests her hand on her growing baby bump.
“Mom, what’s going on?” Celestia ask.
Galaxia folded her hands before speaking. “Orion‘s passage had opened up.”
“Oh my God.” Atlas said in shock.
“When did the passage reappeared?” Luna asks.
“Last night. Orion is the reason why there was northern light shows happening all over the planet.” Nebula answered.
“How can Orion cause all of those light shows?” Artemis asks.
“Since the passage is a shortcut through the vacuum of space, it has a magnetic field surrounding it to protect anything that goes through it. The light shows were result of the passage connecting to this planet and I wouldn’t be surprised if the same thing happened on Earth as well.” Galaxia explained.
“Ok, but how do we access the passage in the first place?” Celestia ask.
“We can use a special crystal to enter the passage. That’s what creatures used eons ago. I already asked Cadence to find one for us.” Galaxia said.
“Well, it looks like we have a lot of work to do.”
“Indeed. Which is also the reason why I called y’all here. I know all of you will be done with all the preparations in no time. Me and Nebula will help out with your daily duties.”
“Mom, Dad, are you sure you want to do that? We can do fine on our own.” Luna said.
“We insist.” Nebula said.
“All right, if you insist.” Celestia said. “I’ll let you know if me and Atlas need some help.”
“Good. That is all for now. Will let you know if there’s anything else.” Galaxia said.
“Ok, we’ll see you guys later.” Atlas said before Celestia teleported the both of them away. Luna and Apollo followed suit while Twilight and Artemis walked out of the office.
===•••===
Atlas was in his and Celestia’s bed chambers making sure he had everything packed before he went to meet his brothers in the castle courtyard.
The moment he woke up, Atlas was pretty nervous. He was excited to see his family and friends. But at the same time, he was worried about them.
A knock on the door snapped him out of his thoughts. He walked to door and opened it and saw that Firefly was on the other side.
“Oh, good morning, Firefly.” Atlas greeted.
“Guten morgen, Kaiser Atlas. I’m here to let you know that Prinz Artemis has just arrived and your friends from Ponyville have come to say goodbye.”
“OK, just give me a sec.”
After he grabbed his backpack and his carry-on suitcase, he left his bed chambers.
“Are the troops ready yet?” Atlas asks.
“Yes, they are. 12,000 army personnel and 1200 Marines are on standby. Ready to help you and your siblings defeat whatever adversary you may encounter on Earth. Some of our allies has also set aside some troops, but not as many as us. Surprisingly, the River Federation decided to volunteer three of its warships to be sent to Earth. When the battle starts, let us know with your walkie-talkies and will be there before you know it.”
“It looks like we are going to annihilating whatever we’re going to be encounter on Earth.”
“Indeed.” She replied.
A few moments of silence later firefly turned to her monarch and ask. “Are you nervous about your mission?”
“It’s that obvious?”
“Not really, you’re doing a good job of hiding it.”
“Thanks. To be honest, I am. I’m excited to go back but at the same time, I don’t know what I might find. Not to mention what my destiny has in store for me. You know, I wonder if the astronauts that landed on the moon, constructed ISS and the Moon base felt the same way before going on their missions.”
“In my point of view, what you and your brothers about to do is going to be way more important than anything our two species has done. You’re going to save your home planet and reunite humanity with the creatures of Equis. Any pony would be nervous if they have to do any of that. All you have to do is keep moving forward, no matter what.”
“You know what, you’re right. Thanks, Firefly.”
“No problem.”
Before they knew it, they had arrived at the castle front entrance.
“Atlas before you go, I have something to tell you.”
“What is it?”
“All of our friends in the Royal guard want me to want me to say goodbye for them. And until we meet each other again fighting side-by-side, we want to tell you good luck.” She said before presenting hand for a handshake.
Instead of that, Atlas gave her a big hug.
“See you later, soldier.” He said before ending the hug and giving Firefly a salute.
She saluted him back. “Have a safe journey, your majesty.”
After that, Atlas exited the castle and walk over to where Artemis' truck was parked.
“What took you so long?” Apollo asks.
“I was saying goodbye to Firefly. Can you put my bags in the truck for me please?”
“Sure thing.” Apollo said before he grabs Atlas’ bags and putting it in the back of the vehicle.
Atlas turns to face his friends. “Well, this is it every pony. We’re about to go back to planet Earth. I promise we’ll contact you guys as soon as we can.”
“We will hold you to that promise.” Applejack smiled. “But in all seriousness, have a nice journey home, and be careful.”
“Good luck on finding your human family.” Fluttershy said.
“Thanks, Flutters. Maybe when everything goes back to normal, we could introduce them to you all. Maybe even bring them over to Equestria for a visit.”
“When that day comes, will throw the biggest party they have ever seen, right Cheese?” Pinkie Pie said.
“You betcha, and don’t you worry, we’ll make sure there’s enough sweets to give every pony a sugar rush.”
“Hey Atlas, take some photos of your hometown for us and bring back some souvenirs too.” Soarin said.
“I will.” He said before turning to the Alicorns.
“Galaxia, thanks for training us for the unknown.”
“You don’t have to thank me, Atlas. I just did what any ancient warrior would do.” She smiled.
Atlas then hug Celestia. “I love you, Tia.”
“I love you too, Atlas. See you real soon.” She said before she kissed him on the cheek and ended the hug.
“Hey Spike, take good care of every pony for us!”
“Don’t worry, I will.” Spike replied.
After Atlas got in the truck, Artemis turn the keys in the ignition. “Bye every pony!” He honked the horn before driving away as every pony waved goodbye.
“Jesus, that was harder than I thought.” Atlas said.
“Yeah, but thankfully, it’s not forever though.” Apollo replied.
“Thank God for that.” Atlas said before he noticed a small pink crystal in a case sitting in the middle of the center consul. “Is that the crystal Cadence sent us?”
“It is.” Artemis replied.
“So how can we use that crystal to get inside the passage?” Atlas ask.
“Easy, all I have to do is touch the Crystal and say, ‘Orion’s passage’ and tell it where you want to go.”
“That’s interesting. At least we’re not going to be going somewhere random.”
“But that begs the question of where we should go? I think we shouldn’t take the passage to New York City. If anyone sees us coming out of the passage, we’re screwed.” Apollo stated.
“That’s a good point, but where else should we go?” Artemis ask.
“How about to Niagara Falls. The town is tiny compared to NYC and there’s less of a chance for the passage to be seen.” Atlas suggested.
“I think we should go with Atlas idea.” Apollo chimed in.
“Are you guys sure you want to go to Niagara Falls?” Artemis ask.
“We’re sure.” They both said unison.
“Ok if you say so. But I’m not excited for the 6 Hour long drive.” Artemis said before pressing down on the brake pedal until the truck came to a stop.
The road in front of them was cleared of traffic and there were barriers on both sides. Preventing any pony walking into the street.
Artemis took the crystal out of its case and said. “Orion‘s passage, take us to the town of Niagara Falls, New York.”
The crystal started to glow and the entrance to the passage appeared a few yards in front of them.
“Are you guys ready?” Artemis said.
“Ready!”
“Here goes nothing!”
The truck accelerated to a speed of 60 mph and drove right into the portal.
Moments later, the portal disappeared.
===•••===https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgKY7ZrcA9g&pp=ygURZnJlbmNoIGZ1c2Ugc3BhY2U%3D
The triplets couldn’t believe their eyes. All around them were different hues of purples and blues with tiny twinkling stars in the distance.
The surface truck was driving on is a platinum-colored road that was forming in front of them.
“Guys, are you seeing this?” Apollo said.
“Yeah, this place is way more beautiful in real life than in our dreams.” Atlas said.
“People back in ancient times took this place for granted.” Artemis said.
“I agree.” Apollo said.
“Remember when our guardian angels said that ships could go through here?” Atlas asks.
“Yeah, what about it?” Artemis said.”
“Do you think there’s water below us?”
“Maybe. Or the ships sail on stars.”
“After everything we had seen on Equis, I wouldn’t be surprised if that was the case. But that would be so cool to see.” Apollo chimed in.
A few minutes later, a portal opened up, revealing a snow-covered alley.
After they came out of the passage, Artemis applied the brakes until the truck came to a complete stop.
After that, portal disappeared.
After a few moments of silence, the triplets got out of the truck without saying a single word.
Even though the snow was reaching their ankles, it was a beautiful sunny day.
Artemis walked towards the road with his siblings following him.
They looked around and saw that there weren’t that many cars driving on the road. But stores were open and some of the locals were walking down the sidewalks and enjoying their day.
Then they notice a flag hanging behind a window.
They stared at it for a moment before Apollo spoke up.
“We did it.”
“Holy shit, we’re back on Earth.” Atlas said.
The three brothers looked at each other and smiled. “We did it!” They exclaimed before high fiving each other.
“We’re back baby!” Artemis said.
“Hell, yeah!” Apollo agreed.
“Hey guys, I know we’re excited to be back. But let’s turn it down before we draw attention to ourselves.” Atlas stated before they checked their surroundings and let out a sigh of relief when they saw that they didn’t attract any unwanted attention.
“Let’s head back to the truck. We have a long drive ahead of us after all.” Artemis said before they walked back into the alley.
After they got inside the vehicle, Artemis turned the keys in the ignition and drove out of the alleyway.
“Since we’re back on Earth, do you think that Apps like YouTube should be able to work now? Apollo said.
“Oh crap, I didn’t think about that. Check the check if we can call other people besides each other.” Artemis said.
“I’m already on it.” Apollo said before he dialed his mother‘s phone number. “Dammit, it didn’t go through. It says my service is disconnected.
“How about the texting app?”
“It doesn’t work. The only people I can text you two.” Atlas said
“Great. It looks like we have to find our folks the old-fashioned way.”
While Artemis and Atlas were a disappointed that they couldn’t contact anyone. Apollo decided to look their names up on Google.
“How famous are we?” Atlas ask.
“There’s a lot of documentaries about us. CNN, NBC, and Fox News. Even the history channel made a documentary, but it's about us being kidnapped by aliens.”
“That’s weird. Out of all the things they could have done they decide to make that?” Atlas said.
“I’m not surprised that conspiracy theorists have done that. These are the same people that think that the moon landings from the 60s to today are fake. But I hate to admit it, they are sort of right about us.” Artemis said.
“Imagine everyone’s reaction when we finally tell them what happened to us in the last three years. They are going to think we’re crazy.” Atlas chuckled.
“Until then, should we make up a cover story?”
“Definitely, we don’t want to raise any alarm bells. Thankfully, we have six long hours ahead of us.” Artemis said before he put on some sunglasses and turned on the radio as he drove onto I-190.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
The Battle of Times Square part one.
The sound of the explosion could be heard throughout Manhattan. Car alarms went off, people were panicking, and nearby NYPD officers were trying to figure out what the heck was going on.
“That was way too close.” Apollo said as his heart pounded out of his chest.
After the smoke cleared, the changelings started shooting at the shield with their pistols. Since Apollo’s magic gotten better since the last time he fought the changelings, the bullets were barely doing any damage at all.
The only one who wasn’t shooting was the changeling that started the attack. He was busy yelling into his radio.
“I got them.” Atlas said before, taking his switchblade out of his pocket and teleporting out of the bubble.
He reappeared behind one of the soldiers and stabbed him right in the neck and twisted the blade. Killing the jackboot instantly. Before the corpse fell on the ground, he grabbed the gun out of the dead guy's hand and started shooting.
*Bang, Bang, Bang, Bang, Bang, Bang.*
This caused the Black League soldiers to scatter. Most of the bullets hit their targets, someone killed while others were badly injured.
“Atlas behind you!” Apollo yelled.
Atlas turned around and saw that another soldier was charging at him with an assault rifle with a bandit.
He dodged her attack, shot her abdomen and ripped the rifle right out of her hands before spraying bullets everywhere.
“Apollo, I’m going to take our folks back home.”
“Ok. But while you’re at it, call for reinforcement immediately!”
“You got it.” Artemis said before teleporting himself and his parents back home.
His parents were in complete shock, and the teleportation only made things even worse.
“What the hell just happened?” Stephanie asks.
“I don’t know. There was an explosion, gunfire and chaos.” Her husband replied before he noticed Artemis running out the door.
Artemis ran to his truck, open the rear doors and got inside the cargo area.
He pulled the walkie-talkie out of his bag and turned it on. “Earth to Equestria, is any pony there?”
“Equestria speaking, is everything all right?” Celestia answered.
“No, everything is not right. Doomsday is here.”
“Already?! Who’s the enemy and where are they?”
“The Changelings! They are in an area called Times Square, New York.” Artemis replied.
“The Changelings? Wait, that means……. oh no. Artemis, the troops be there as soon as possible, just hang tight and keep your walkie-talkie on.”
After he put the walkie-talkie in his pocket, Artemis approached a large metal chest that is against the wall that separated the cab from the trunk. He opened it, revealing three gray and white camo combat uniforms, three assault rifles, 18 grenades and enough ammo to last a few hours.
Knowing that he didn’t have any time change normally, Artemis used a spell that would allow him to switch outfits in a blink of an eye. A spell that Rarity had taught him and his siblings a year ago.
After he magically changed into his uniform and put his bag down, he picked up all the contents in the chest in his magic. He was about to teleport back to Manhattan when he heard a voice.
“Artemis, what are you wearing? Do you know what's going on”
He turned around to see that his dad was standing right outside the truck’s doors.
“I do.” Artemis sighed as he got out of the vehicle.
“Hold on.” His dad got closer to him. “What’s going on with your eyes? Why are they glowing pink?”
“It’s not pink it’s magenta and I don’t have time to explain.”
“Son, if you know what's happening, please tell me. I promise I won’t be mad.”
“You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.” He replied before hearing a large explosion in the distance.
“Please don’t.” Andrew begged as he grabbed his son’s hand.
“I love you, dad.” Artemis didn’t have the heart to look back at his father before teleporting away, leaving him distraught and confused.
===•••===
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EZOTBnor18&pp=ygUURmlyZSBFZHVhcmQgYXJ0ZW15ZXY%3D
The moment Artemis came back to Times Square, he immediately ran towards Atlas and Apollo, who were hiding behind an overturned F150. Dodging bullets and magic beams in the process.
After he got to safety, he started handing his siblings their uniforms and weapons. “What did I miss?”
“A lot. All the NYPD officers in the area are dead. The changelings are spreading out throughout Manhattan, and we found out how they got here in the first place.” Atlas said as he magically changed into his uniform. “They are using Orion’s passage.”
“What?! How?!” Artemis said in shock.
“We don’t know. All we know is that the nationalists are coming out of that passage like water coming out of a broken water pipe. Bringing tanks and all sorts of heavy weaponry.” Apollo said before throwing a grenade. “Not only that, they’re not alone.”
“What do you mean?” Artemis asks.
“Look.” Atlas pointed at a Kirin soldier wearing a combat uniform. On his right arm is a dark red flag with a menacing looking black eagle spreading its wings in the center.
“Of course, the Livonians are here.” Artemis deadpanned.
“Yeah, those damn Kirin supremacists will do anything for a piece of land. I wouldn’t be surprised if the rest of the changelings' allies are coming as well.” Apollo said before a portal opened up right next to their position, scaring the living crap out of them.
Before they can aim their rifles at the tanks coming out of the portal, they noticed that one of them have a circle of 10 gold stars on its turret. The emblem of the River Federation.
Their fear immediately turns into relief after realizing that these vehicles were on their side.
Moments after the federal tanks and trucks drove out of the passage, vehicles from Equestria, Buryatia and Kemerovo arrived.
After the soldiers came out of the trucks, they and their armor counterparts started attacking changelings and Livonians in and around Times Square.
Some of the tanks (mainly the Buryats) ram the changeling tanks at full speed. Knocking some of them off their tracks.
“Your majesties!” Firefly yelled as she and her cousin ran over to the triplets. “Sorry for taking so long.”
“You guys didn’t take long at all, you guys arrived just in time.” Apollo said before shooting a changeling down with his magic.
“That’s good to hear. So, what are your orders?” Mapleleaf ask Atlas.
“Hmmmmmm. I got it. After we secured this area, we will go to the Hudson River and the East River, cutting the island in two. Me and Firefly we go east while Artemis and Mapleleaf go to the west. After that, we’ll march north and south to secure the entire island. Apollo, you stay here until further notice. If you see any Livonians or changeling trying to cross the rivers to New Jersey, Queens or Brooklyn, shoot them.”
“Yes, sir!” The cousins saluted before teleporting away to relay the information to their allies and subordinates.
“Are you guys ready to get out of hiding?” Atlas asks.
“I am.” Artemis answered.
“Me too.” Apollo said.
“All right, on account 3. 1. 2. 3!” Atlas yelled before they left their hiding spot, shooting at any jackboot that moved.
===•••===
The young changeling sergeant teleported onto the roof of the United Nations headquarters and waited for his higher-ups to arrive.
He would rather to fight alongside his fellow changelings, but his higher-ups called him here to receive a new assignment.
The sergeant assumed that what they have to say to him had to be important since they wanted to talk to him in person.
He didn’t wait long before two changelings teleported in front of him. Both of the changelings are stallions, but one of them is in his mid 60s and the other isn’t his early 40s.
The older stallion is supreme commander Karbyshev and the younger stallion is General Yazov. Yazov is Karbyshev’s protégé.
“Supreme Commander, General.” The sergeant saluted out of respect.
“At ease, soldier.” Karbyshev said. “I’m assuming you’re curious of what your new assignment is going to be. Am I right, Sergeant Schörner?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Before we tell you that, we got some good news from our motherland. As of right now, the Empire is at war with the ponies and their lapdogs. Pretty soon the rest of the armed forces will be here to help us conquer this nation and make it our own.” Yazov said as he looked over the edge of the roof, looking down at the fleeing humans in the streets below.
“Now, your orders. You’ll be putting in charge of a new battle company.” Karbyshev said.
“Me? But I’m just a sergeant.”
“Yes, but you are the right changeling for the job. You’re ruthless, zealous and you follow orders very well. Anyway, after the reinforcements arrive, you will meet up with your company and fly over river into two large neighborhoods called Brooklyn and Queens, when I give you the go ahead. Over there, is two large air stations. If you capture those air stations, the city will be cut off from the outside world and our supply lines will be more secure. Do you understand?”
“Yes, sir.” He was about to fly away when he heard
“Maximus, wait.”
“Yes, general?”
“Before you go, I just want let you know that Brooklyn is triplets home neighborhood.”
“Oh really?” A intrigued Maximus said. “Thanks for letting me know.”
“Anytime. Now, you’re dismissed.”
Maximus saluted the General and the Supreme Commander before flying away.
As he was flying through the sky, Maximus couldn’t help but smile. Finally, not only did he have a chance to contribute to cause in a big way, but also get his revenge.
If it wasn’t for the Royal three, not only would the Empire be in its golden age right now, but also his father would still be here.
Instead of coming back home as a war hero, his father, Ferdinand, was captured, humiliated and sentenced to life in prison on bogus charges.
The Changeling-Equestrian war was supposed to be his last conflict before being discharged from the military with full honors. Instead of enjoying his retirement and eventually becoming a grandpa.
He was sent to prison and later beaten to death by another prisoner a few months later. His father was a good military stallion, and did not deserve any of that.
Which is why he joined the Black League. Not only to service his country, but to write the wrongs of the past.
The elements of harmony, the triplets, the royal sisters and the traitorous princess Zaya will get what they deserve.
One way or another.
===•••===
Atlas and his large battalion of troops were fighting in front of the famous Grand Central Station. Slowly pushing the changelings back.
Smoke came out of tank cannons like they were fire breeding dragons as they rolled over abandoned cars and confront their adversaries in the shadow of the MetLife and Chrysler buildings.
Despite all the death and chaos that happened around him, Atlas remain calmed. After all, he’s been training for this day for long two years.
After he send another nationalist to God, Firefly teleported right next to him.
“Your majesty, I have received an urgent message from Canterlot. The Changeling Empire and their allies have declared war on the Harmony Entente. As we speak, a large invasion force is coming to New York right now.”
“What?!” Atlas said shock.
“That’s not all. Before the fascists declared war on us, they launched a bunch of missiles into our territories. Most of them were shot down, but some were able to hit their targets. Saigon, Krasnoyarsk, Saint Peterhoof and a few other cities all over the world have been hit. Mainly in civilian areas. Atlas, we’re in another great war.”
Atlas couldn’t believe his ears. She did it. That sick bastard of the queen accomplish what she was trying to do two years ago. Starting a war that the world would never forget.
“Your majesty!”
“Yes, master sergeant?”
“What are your orders? Emperor Apollo and Prince Artemis has already called for land and air reinforcements from Equis. Should we do the same?”
“Tell Equestria to give us everything they can spare. I don’t care what they give us, as long as it can be used to get rid of these worthless bastards. Do I make myself clear?!”
“Yes, sir!”
“Good, now send the message.” Atlas commanded.
“I’m on it.” She said before grabbing her radio.
Ten long minutes later, the coalition forces continue to advance eastward. Spite the heavy resistance the changelings were putting up.
When they were almost at the banks of the east river, they heard a loud buzzing noise. Much louder than before.
They looked up to see that six large Zepplin coming out of three separate portals. After the portals closed, paratroopers from Lavonia, Wingbardy and the Empire, jumped out of the air ships and started floating down towards the streets of New York.
To make matters even worse, the Zarian Air Force, mostly made up of Astra fighter jets, were accompanying them. Overwhelming Pegasus, Thestrals and US aircraft.
“Oh shit.” Firefly said.
“Jesus Christ, this is going to be Canterlot wedding all over again!” Atlas stated before they both used to magic and bullets to take out as many paratroopers as possible.
Despite their best efforts, 70% of them landed safely on the ground and immediately started attacking every pony.
It was at this moment when Firefly had an idea.
“Atlas, can you cover me?”
“Yeah, why?”
She answered his question by transforming into her nirik form. Colorful flames covered every inch of her body, making her look twice as intimidating as before.
She took a deep breath and breathe out a long stream of fire. Burning more than dozen soldiers to death.
Seeing this, their comrades tried to take her out only to be stopped dead in their tracks by Atlas.
After she ran out of breath, she saw a Wingbardian Griffon that was approaching two injured NYPD officers.
Firefly teleported right behind him and stabbed him in the back with her bayonet.
The soldier screams out in excruciating pain and fall to the ground with loud thud.
After she went back to her normal form, she looked at the officers and ask. “Are you right?”
The officers slowly nodded.
“You did a pretty good job back there.” Atlas said after running over to her.
“Thank you.”
Then Atlas noticed the state officers were in.
“Of course.”
After that Atlas teleported himself and the officers away.
While the human emperor was gone, the battle continued to rage on. Five minutes later American soldiers arrived from the north.
At first, they were going after everyone, but after realizing that the ponies were on their side, The Americans and the ponies try their best to work together.
As they were cutting down the nationalist ranks in droves, Firefly noticed a brigade of Kirin soldiers coming towards them from the south.
And they weren’t Equestrian.
Before she can warn her comrades, the Kirins attacked them with a powerful magical assault.
After the dust cleared, an American M1 Abrams tank aimed its cannon at them and fired.
*BOOM*
The shell landed and exploded right in front of the Lavonians, turning most of them into a red mist. The ones that survived mainly retaliated by shooting beams of magic, disabling the Abrams.
A group of American and Kemerovoian soldiers tried to save the Abrams by taking out as many Livonians as possible, but their efforts were in vain when the tank exploded when its ammo was hit.
Firefly would’ve been hit by some of the debris from the explosion, but thankfully she was able use her magic to shield herself.
It was at this moment when large Livonian stallion teleported behind her and kicked her in the back. Knocking her to the ground and her rifle slid out of reach.
Firefly immediately teleported back on her feet and punched the stallion right in the jaw.
Before she can throw another punch, she was enveloped by the stallion’s magical aura. Not allowing her to move a single muscle.
He moved his tongue around his mouth before leaning over and spitting out blood in a few knocked out teeth.
He then spoke up. Speaking in an accent that sounded like he was from Norway. “Pretty good for an Equestrian.” He spit out another tooth. “But not good enough.” The soldier said before punching Firefly right in the face. Causing her nose to bleed and the pain her feel a dizzy.
The Livonian slammed her onto the ground, punched her two more times, he grabbed his combat knife.
Before he can finish her off, someone shot him in the back of the head. When the body fell, she saw that it was Luna and Atlas.
“Are you ok, Master Sergeant?” Luna ask.
“Not as good as before, but yeah, I’m fine.”
“We got your message that you need reinforcements, so I decide to come to earth and help out. Before you ask, I did not come alone.” Luna answered.
“Who else came with you?”
“Look around.” Atlas said.
Firefly did just that. All around them were thousands of marines helping their army counterparts to fight back against the fascist soldiers. Some of them even have flamethrowers.
In the air, blimps and airplanes from the Equestrian Air Force were massacring the changelings and the griffons. Saving their American counterparts and shooting down one of the changelings zeppelins.
The large aircraft burned as it slowly fell, eventually crashing into the Hudson.
“Oh, thank goodness. I thought we would be stuck fighting in the middle of Manhattan forever.” Firefly said with relief before she noticed the green and red blood stains on Atlas uniform.
“Atlas, are you ok?”
“Yeah, I am. The blood is not mine. I got these stains because I was protecting an apartment building from a bunch of changelings and Wingbardian griffins after I dropped off the cops.” Atlas explained.
“You need get patched up.” Luna said before spotting a nearby medic. The Kirin in question has a gray coat with a dark purple mane. “Hey, you, can you come over here real quick?”
“Yes, Empress?” The medic asked.
“Before I ask my question, what’s your name?”
“Staff Sergeant, Tallinn Blade. Your majesty.”
“Staff Sergeant, can you make sure that Master Sergeant Sequoia is doing all right? She took a bit of a beating.”
“Sure thing.” Tallinn said.
Firefly blushed when he looked at her. She didn’t know why it was happening.
“Can you walk on your own?” He asked.
“Yes, I can.” She said before they walked away.
After that, Luna and Atlas rejoin the fight. Eventually, they were able to defeat the changelings and continue their march east.
Their next stop, the United Nations HQ.
===•••===
Apollo and Mapleleaf were walking through the war-torn streets of Manhattan with their battalion and a small company of US Marines. Occasionally fighting with a few nationalists here and there.
Everywhere they looked was a depressing site. Every store and restaurant they passed were either destroyed or ransacked, destroyed vehicles were scattered all over the road and dead bodies from soldiers on both sides of this conflict were a common site.
But the most heartbreaking thing of all was the civilians that were morning their loved ones and homes they lost or trying to flee to safety.
Apollo hate this. He hates seeing so much suffering happening around him. He hates seeing his hometown being destroyed, and he hate every member of the black league for causing all of this to happen.
After they left an area named Hudson Square, they arrived at a hotel with a bunch of US troops in front of it. It was clear that a battle just happened here. This is the same hotel that his cousins from DC were staying in.
‘Oh no.’ He thought.
“Mapleleaf, let’s check if they need any help.” Apollo said before he headed towards the hotel with Mapleleaf following him.
“Excuse me, sir. Where is your platoon leader?”
When the white man turned around, Apollo immediately recognized him. His name is Christian Lemley, one of Barlow’s friends.
“Mr. Lemley?”
“Holy shit, you’re one of Barlow‘s nephews.” He snapped his fingers before saying. “Artemis, right?”
“Apollo.”
“Oh, sorry.”
“It’s all right, I’m used to it.”
“Well, it’s good to see you again, but what are you doing here and why are you wearing that uniform?” Christian said.
“It’s a very long story. But I am the leader of this battalion right here.” Apollo said, referring to the pony soldiers behind him.
“Ok?” He said in confusion.
“Anyway, do you know where your platoon leader is?” Apollo asks.
“You’re looking right at him.” Christian said.
“That’s convenient. Do you need any help with this hotel?”
“Yes, we do. Just a few minutes ago, we defeated a group of those shape shifters and now we need to check if the guests at this place are all right, but we don’t have enough manpower.”
“How many volunteers do you need?”
“At least 15.” Christian said.
Apollo turned around and yelled. “Can I have some volunteers to search for survivors in this hotel?”
20 ponies step forward. Mapleleaf included.
“Is this enough?”
“This is more than enough.”
“Good.” He turned to look at his soldiers said. “All volunteers follow me. Every pony else, make sure that the area is secure.” Apollo said before entering the damaged hotel lobby.
They went up the hotel stairs and little by little a few soldiers went their separate ways into different floors. Since the building lost power during the battle, it was not only cold, but dark too. Thankfully, they had flashlights.
By the time they got to10th and final floor, it was just him and Mapleleaf.
After checking a few of the abandon rooms, Apollo finally arrived at the room his relatives were staying in. Room 1005.
“Mapleleaf wait right here.” He said before knocked on the door twice.
Then all of a sudden, he hurt his aunt yell. “WHO EVER YOU ARE, DON’T YOU DARE BREAK THIS DOOR DOWN OR ELSE I WILL SHOOT YOU DEAD RIGHT HERE AND NOW.”
Instead of feeling scared, Apollo was confused. “Auntie, how in the heck did you get a gun? Did Uncle Barlow give you one?”
It was silent for a few moments before the door opened.
“Oh my God. Apollo what are you doing here?”
“To get you to safety, of course.” He smiled.
“But how did you get here? Manhattan is a war zone.” She said before noticing Mapleleaf.
Deborah pulled her nephew into the room behind her and pointed the kitchen knife, she had her right hand at the Kirin.
“Oh Faust.” Mapleleaf was surprised that a pregnant lady could so fast.
“Jesus, they know English.”
“Auntie put the knife down, she’s not threat.”
“You know this alien?” Deborah asks a shock.
“Yes, I do very well, actually. She’s also one of my subordinates.”
“Subordinates?” Then she saw what Apollo was wearing thanks to the natural light coming from the suite’s windows. “Why are you wearing this? Where did you get this?”
“It’s a long story. A story that started three years ago. Can I come in?”
“As long your friend behaves herself.”
“Don’t worry ma’am, I will.” Mapleleaf said.
“Good.” Deborah said as she allowed them in the suite and closing the door.
“Apollo.” Patrick said he ran towards his cousin and hugged him tightly.
“Hey cousin.” Apollo greeted before Patrick let him go. “Is everyone all right?”
“Everyone is fine, cold but fine.” Douglas said. “Is she friendly?” He asked.
“Yeah, her name is Mapleleaf.”
“Guten tag.”
“Nice to meet you.” Douglas said in confusion. “Apollo, how and why are you here?”
“It’s a long story, but I’m here to evacuate you to a safer area.”
“Manhattan is a war zone. For all we know this hotel could be the safest place for us.” Deborah said.
“Yeah, but I was thinking of taking you guys out of Manhattan.”
“How? The Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges have been shut down. And I know for fact that we’re not going to risk our lives trying to get to the Williamsburg Bridge. Especially with our six-year-old.” Douglas said.
“Thankfully we don’t have to go through New York.”
“You got a helicopter or something?” Deborah asks.
“No, it’s something better. But it’s pretty strange at the same time.” Apollo said before closing his eyes and taking deep breath. He then opens them to reveal that his brown irises were now blue.
In a blink of an eye, the family was teleported from their hotel suite to the Yukon residence with their belongings.
“What the heck.” Douglas said in shock.
“Who is that?” Stephanie said that she came out of the kitchen. Her eyes widened when she saw who was in her living room. she hugged her sister and said. “Oh, my goodness, all of you are alive. We were worried sick. Come, everyone is in the family room.”
They walked into the family room to see that the entire family was there. The grandparents, Uncle Barlow, Auntie Maya and the little cousins. With the TV set on ABC News showing the horrors of the conflict.
“Oh my God. It’s a miracle.” Amelia said. “How did you get out of Manhattan?”
“We don’t know. One minute we were in our hotel suite talking to Apollo, and next do you know we ended up here. But I am glad that we’re out of there.”
“Was Apollo’s eyes glowing before this weird event happened?” Andrew asks.
“Yeah, how did you know?” Douglas asks.
“Because that’s what happened before Artemis disappeared.” Maya said.
Pretty soon, the entire family was looking at Apollo.
“Son, are you fighting with the aliens?” Andrew asks.
“Yes, I am. The ones I’m with are not only fighting to save the city, but for their homelands as well.” He answered.
“So that’s why you, Atlas and Artemis been fighting all over the city like your superman or something.” Barlow said.
“So, you have magic?” BJ ask.
“Believe it or not, I do actually. It’s just been dormant for most of my life.”
“What does that word mean?” Patrick ask.
“Oh yeah, prove it.” Stefan said, believing that what his cousin was telling them was complete and other bullshit.
“Ok.” Apollo said before he started levitating off the ground.
To say that the entire family was shocked was an understatement.
“How in the hell are you doing that?” Edward asks.
Apollo teleported right next to where his grandpa was sitting, startling him a bit. “Magic.”
“YES! Magic does exist. Take that Stefan!” BJ yelled. Stefan did nothing but cross his arms.
“So, this time you were able to do all of this?” Stephanie asks.
“Yep. I was able to do this for two years now.”
After Apollo was back on solid ground, he looked around the room and said.
“Now, since you all are safe and sound, I’m going to head back to Manhattan. I can leave them alone for too long. I’ll be back before you know it.”
“Oh no you don't!” His mom barked. “I don’t care if you have special powers from God knows where, you’re staying right here.”
“As much as I want to, I can’t do that. I have a duty to fulfill. New York needs me.” Apollo replied.
“And my duty is to make sure that you don’t get yourself killed!”
“Mom, I’m not going to die. I know how to defend myself from these changelings.”
This is when they started to argue with each other. The Anaheim and Yukon families didn’t know what to do.
That was until Barlow got up from the couch and walked over to them. “Both of you, shut up right now.”
The marine turned to Apollo. “Young man, do you know these aliens well?”
“Yes, I do. Some of them I even consider family.”
“Are they willing to go through Hell and back with you?”
“Of course. I’m willing to do the same for them.”
“Well, they sound like a good bunch. Now go. Go to Manhattan.” He commanded.
“Yes, sir.” Apollo saluted before teleporting away.
Stephanie‘s shock immediately turned to anger.
“Because you weren’t going to stop him from leaving anyway. I only intervene to soften the blow, for you and your son. I don’t know about you, but I saw a fire in his eyes. I know too well that when a young man has that determination in him, you can’t stop him. For some reason he and his siblings have been given a gift and they decided to use it for good instead of not using it by hiding. And with the soldiers he’s fighting alongside with I know for a fact that all coming back to us.”
“Know do you know for sure.” Stephanie said her angry façade shattered, revealing a scared mother.
“Look.” He pointed at the TV.
On the TV screen, Artemis was defending a group of civilians from a bunch of changelings with a few pony soldiers helping him out. He then use his magic to create a shockwave, which send the changelings flying. Many of them did not survive their landings.
Without skipping a beat, Artemis went back to the stragglers. Making sure that they fled to safety.
“See not even a scratch on him.”
Looking at the TV, Stephanie couldn’t help but to feel proud of her son. She never thought he had it in him to put his life at risk for a bunch of strangers. She turned to her younger brother and said.
“I’m sorry for the way I acted. We just got them back and I don’t want to lose them again.”
“You don’t need to apologize, sis.” Barlow said before pulling Stephanie closer.
===•••===
Luna and Atlas were flying alongside a motorize division made up of equestrian trucks and tanks, heading towards the southern tip of Manhattan. They were on patrol, making sure that there were no more jackboots in lower Manhattan.
Thanks to the efforts of the temporary alliance between US troops and the Harmony Entente, the changelings and their allies pretty much abandoned anywhere that was south of Times Square. Giving the Entente their first victory of the war.
“Are we able to see the Statue of Liberty from this island?” Luna asks.
“As long there is no fog, we should be able to see it.” Said Atlas.
Five minutes later, they finally arrived at Battery Park. The best place to see the statue.
But they weren’t able to see the statue because blocking their view were three large Changeling battle cruisers. The ICS Queen Chrysalis, ICS Ashton and the ICS Cobalt.
(ICS stands for imperial changeling ship.)
The Queen Chrysalis and the Cobalt was anchored near Manhattan with their four large guns aimed away from the city. While the Ashton was harassing civilian ships in the harbor.
But the thing that caught every ponies attention was far in the distance.
Accompany by three US warships, is a large battleship.
A ship with a famous reputation.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
Strangers in a strange land.
February 7 1012 A.G
As the Sun rose over the horizon and illuminated the bedroom. Twilight woke up from her deep slumber and use her magic to pull the curtains over to shield her eyes from the blinding light.
After she was done stretching, she rolled over to look at her sleeping husband. The purple Alicorn scooted closer to Artemis and hugged him. Being careful not to poke him with her horn.
Feeling Twilight tight embrace, Artemis open his eyes.
“Good morning, Twi.” He greeted.
“Good morning, Pluto.” She said lovingly before giving him a kiss on the lips. Artemis put his hand on Twilight’s baby bump and felt a kick.
“Aww, our little foal knows his dad is home.”
“That was a strong little kick. I can already tell he is going to be a force to be reckoned with.” Said Artemis.
“Just like his father.” She said sweetly.
“And this little foal will be a wonderful and intelligent person, just like his mom.” He replied as he touched Twilight’s cheek.
“Already giving out compliments I see.” She smiled.
“You’re the one that started it. Should we get ready for breakfast now?”
“No, I want to stay in bed a little bit longer. It’s been a little while since we were snuggled up like this.”
“All right, you win. Do you want to be the little spoon?” He ask.
“You have read my mind.”
Twilight rolled over on to her right side and Artemis embraced her from behind as he put his hand on her stomach. They stayed like for a while, showing each other with affection and enjoying each other’s company in the peace and quiet.
But eventually, they knew that their cuddle session had to come to an end.
“Twi, I would like to spend the entire morning like this, but we have to get up.” Artemis stated.
“I know.”
“But you can enjoy the bed a little longer. I’ll go first.” He kissed Twilight on the cheek before getting out of bed.
===•••===
After they got ready for the day, Twilight and Artemis made their way to the Castle’s Dining Room, holding each other’s hands while doing so.
When they arrive, they saw that Lauren, Atlas Uncle Barlow and Nicholas were at the table.
“Good morning, every po- *Ahem* I mean everybody.” Twilight greeted.
“Good morning.” Atlas replied as he looked over his newspaper before taking a sip of his morning coffee.
“Morning.” Nicholas and Barlow said.
“Good morning, young ones. I’m assuming you’re having a wonderful morning so far?” Lauren smiled.
“We are.” Artemis answered.
“That’s good to hear.”
“How are you guys doing?” Twilight ask.
Lauren put her tea cup down before answering. “I am doing quite well.”
“Last night was the best sleep I ever had in my life.” Barlow chimed in. “I swear that mattress has to be made out of clouds.”
“That’s because they are. We just got them last year.” Atlas answered.
“In that case, you wouldn’t mind if I took one of them back to the U.S?” The Marine said jokingly.
“I wouldn’t allow you to take one, but maybe Celestia would, who knows.” His nephew said sarcastically.
“Where is Celestia anyway?” Twilight ask.
“The she’s in the kitchen, making us breakfast.” Nicholas spoke up.
“She is? Oh, we’re going to be eating good today!”
“She is that good at cooking?” Barlow asks.
“Good doesn’t even tell you how great she is at it. Her skills are almost on the same level as some of castle chefs. If she wasn’t an empress, I wouldn’t be surprised if she decides to open up a restaurant or a bed & breakfast.”
“So, you’re saying she can create something better than my famous waffles with sausages?”
“Sorry uncle, it’s true.” Atlas said as he put his newspaper down.
“I’ll be the judge of that.” Barlow said confidently.
A few moments later, the dining room doors open, revealing Apollo and Luna.
“Good morning, everyone.” Luna greeted.
“Morning, Luna, morning Apollo.” Lauren answered.
“Good morning.” Said Apollo.
“Apollo, didn’t you patrol the dream realm last night?” Atlas ask after noticing his brother did not look tired at all.
"I did."
“So how are you wide awake?”
“Oh, you wouldn’t believe what five-hour energy can do for a person that just came from the dream realm.” Apollo answered as he and his fiancé took a seat at the table.
“Oh no.” Barlow sighed.
“Here we go again.” Nicholas chuckled.
“You brought American energy drinks to Equestria?” Artemis said in disbelief.
Apollo nodded. “Don’t worry, I know my limit.”
“Oh really? Like that time when you stayed up of a full 24 hours to complete a project, consuming nothing but monster energy. Only to black out on the New York subway after school.”
This made Luna laugh. “Please tell me you’re not making this up?”
“It’s true, we were in high school at the time.”
Seeing his brothers trying to hold back their laughter, Apollo blushed in embarrassment. “Nick, I thought we agreed not to talk about that.”
“I’m sorry, I had to it was the right moment. I still remember that we nearly missed our stop because we were trying to wake you up.”
“I remembered that. That was a very interesting afternoon.” Said Artemis.
“Nicholas, screw you.”
“I love you too, buddy.” Nicholas said.
“I don’t get it. What’s so bad about falling asleep on the Subway?” Twilight whispered to Luna.
“The New York subway system could be an interesting place, if you know what I mean.”
“Changing the subject. What are we having today?” Apollo ask.
“Celestia is making us pancakes.” Atlas answered.
“That a surprising, too bad everyone else is not joining us.”
“Speaking of which, where is everyone else?” Nicholas ask.
“I don’t know where every single person is. But I do know that Stephanie and Maya are in the hot Springs, the Marino sisters are in the spa as well. Andrew is in the castle library and the little cousins are beating my father in a snowball fight in the gardens. I am convinced that he letting them win.” Luna answered.
“Of course he is.” Lauren chimed in.
“After breakfast maybe we should go and join them.” Nicholas suggested.
“Maybe.” Artemis said.
It was at this moment when someone teleported in the dining room.
The creature in question that was wearing a dark blue HMMLR uniform is green with orange antlers and the eyes were completely purple.
It wasn’t unusual to hear about other creatures from around the world joining the HMMLR, but the triplets never seen any creature like him before.
“Good morning, every creature.” He said before walking over to Luna. “Your majesty, do you know where Celestia is?”
“She is busy in the kitchen.”
“Oh, well can you give her these reports?”
“Sure thing, Lieutenant.” She said, after being handed the papers.
“Luna, I don’t want to be rude, but who is this?”
“You really don’t recognize me, do you?” The creature said.
“No, we don’t. You sound familiar, but that’s it.” Apollo spoke up.
“It me, Thorax the changeling.” He smiled.
Hearing the word "changeling" made Barlow look up from his phone.
Artemis’ eyes widen. “It is you! You look so different.”
“That’s an understatement, before you was two inches shorter than us now you’re taller than everyone else.” Apollo said, as he got up from his chair to get a closer look at the tall changeling.
As the triplets were conversing with their friend, Barlow couldn’t believe his eyes.
His nephews, the heroes of the American Northeast, was talking with a changeling. A potential enemy!
‘Have they lost their goddamn minds?’ He thought.
The marine heard too many horror stories from his comrades about changelings acting all friendly after they were captured only to harm someone when their guard was down. Heck even disguising themselves as dead soldiers.
He was not going to allow anyone to hurt today, not on his watch.
He reached for a sharp knife, but Lauren stopped him by putting her left hand over his.
“Don’t worry he’s not a threat.” Lauren whispered.
“How did you-“
“I’ve been around for thousands of years, I know the look.”
“Are you sure he’s trustworthy?” He whispered back.
Lauren nodded.
“All right, but I’m still going keep my eye on him.”
“Thorax, how did you become like this? Is this a new disguise you’re trying out?” Atlas asked.
“No, it’s my new original form. I got it because when I collected love, I shared some of it with others instead of hoarding it, that’s why my wings were sparkly for weeks. Then while you were gone, I transform into this. I look pretty good, but one downside is that I had to replace my entire wardrobe and get a new uniform.” He explained.
“I can imagine it’s going be pretty strange for every changeling when the same thing happens to them.” Said Apollo.
“True but I’m sure every changeling will get used to it.” Thorax replied before the door to the kitchen opened, revealing Celestia pushing a cart full of trays.
“Good morning, everyone.” She greeted before noticing the changeling in the room. “Oh, good morning, Thorax.”
“Good morning, your majesty.” He answered.
“Where is the rest of the family?” Celestia ask.
“They’re not going to be joining us since they either still asleep or doing something around the castle.” Apollo answered.
“Oh, well in that case, I’ll leave these plates in the kitchen for them.” She said before teleporting most of the platters away. “Thorax, do you want to join us?”
“I appreciate the offer, but I need to get back to my office. I’ll see you all later.” Moments later he teleported out of the dining room.
After that, Celestia levitated the platters and place them on the table.
Everyone lifted their covers to see three pancakes stacked on top of each other with a big smiley face made of fruit.
“This looks interesting.” Barlow said to himself.
“This is the best pancakes I ever had. I don’t think I can go back to store-bought ones after this.”
Hearing this, Barlow cut himself a piece and put it in his mouth. In that moment, he tasted all the wonderful flavors on his fork.
“Oh my God.” He swallowed before continuing. “Celestia, you win. I can’t beat this.”
His statement confused the sun empress.
===•••===
By the time everyone woke up and got ready for the day, it was finally time for them to go out and explore the city.
Since everyone wanted to do different things, they decide to split into two groups.
Artemis, Twilight, Apollo and their friends would meet up with Twilight’s friend group and have fun in the tourist areas.
Right now, Apollo and his group is on board a water taxi waiting for the ship to arrive at their destination. Since almost one in three roads were only for pedestrians, they decided to explore the city on foot.
“Man, I am so psyched for this. We’re going to be encountering some interesting stuff, I just know it.” Tyrone said gleefully as he held his camera in his hands.
“You know it. Just keep your excitement down to a minimum, some ponies are watching us after all.”
“Honestly, I’m surprised how quick the News outlets were to report on our arrival.” Annie said after looking behind her seat to look at her friends. “It’s barely been 24 hours and we’re already on the front page of every newspaper.”
“That’s the Equestrian media for ya. You should be grateful that they didn’t mob us after we got off of 999.” Artemis chimed in as he leans over Apollo seat from behind.
“Oh shoot, that reminds me.” Tyrone said as he took his phone out from his pocket. “After I finish breakfast, I turned on my phone, and I got a notification that the Galaxy Express made headlines from my News app.”
He showed his friends the article which had a photo of the express flying into sky. “Some are calling it the magic train.”
“Really, that’s what they are calling the train?” Nicholas joined the conversation after takeoff his headphones. “These journalists have no creativity. If I was writing that article, I would’ve given it a much more fitting nickname like ‘the train of the Cosmos’ or the ‘Astro express.’ But I’m glad they don’t have such creativity. It will allow me to stand out when I join the world of journalism.”
Artemis agreed. “Yeah the nickname is pretty bland. It’s making it sound like the Polar Express, if you ask me.”
“So what are we supposed to do if we do get mobbed by a bunch of nosy journalists?” Claire asked.
“Don’t worry the Royal guards are going to prevent that.” Apollo said nonchalantly. “If they were not here, I would suggest that you accept your fate, you’re famous now.”
Moments later, the ship honked its horn, letting its passengers know that it reached the station.
But there was also a familiar draconquus accompanying them.
“Oh God, not him.” Artemis was not ready for the mess the chaos God might create.
“Out of all the days he shows up it has to be today.” Apollo mumbled.
“Good morning girls, morning Spike.” Twilight greeted.
“Good to see you, egghead. How was it spending time with your human side of the family?” Rainbow ask.
“It was a bit chaotic, but I had a wonderful time. Now I know how Artemis got his personality from.” Twilight answered.
“That’s the great thing of having a big family, Twi.”
“Soarin, Cheese, it’s so good to see you two.” Apollo said as he hugged the pegasus and the earth pony.
“Right back at ya, pal. Sorry we weren’t there to give you a hero’s welcome yesterday. I pinky promise Mr. and Mrs. Cake that I would help them out. And you know I don’t break a pinky promise.” Cheese explained after they separated.
“What is your excuse?” Artemis ask the blue Pegasus.
“I had some stuff to take care of at the wonderbolt stadium.”
“All right, we forgive you. But next time please come over and say hello. Especially you, Soarin. Since you’re almost as fast as your girlfriend.” Apollo said.
“Don’t worry, we will.” Soarin replied.
This is when Artemis noticed Fluttershy. “Oh, hey Fluttershy, sorry for taking so long to greet you.”
“It’s all right I knew you didn’t mean it. I should’ve tapped you or something.” She said in her usual soft tone. “It’s a wonderful day to be out and about. With all this snow, maybe we could go to a park and build a snow pony.”
This is when Discord appeared out of thin air.
“Hello Discord.” Artemis said in a neutral tone after Discord got rid of the snow fort and teleported in front of him.
“Hello Artemis, how was your trip back to your home planet? I bet it was great seeing your mommy and daddy again.”
Artemis didn’t know why, but the way the Lord of chaos referred to his parents that way pissed him off a little. But he didn’t show it. “Besides seeing part of my hometown getting destroyed, it was fine.” He turned to Fluttershy and ask.
“Fluttershy, can I talk to you privately real quick? There’s something important I have to ask you.”
“Oh, ok.” She said before they walked away from the group and Artemis cast a privacy bubble around them. So no one can see or hear them.
“So, what do you want to ask me?”
Artemis took a deep breath before answering. “Flutters, why is Discord here?”
This question surprised the animal lover. “Because he wanted to come along and see you and your brothers.”
‘Yeah fucking right.’ He thought.
“Why didn’t the sea pony stallion that you’ve been dating for a while come? What’s his name?” He snapped his fingers a few times before he remembered. “Genesis! Why didn’t you bring Genesis?”
“He wanted to come, but he has a busy schedule at the Ponyville search and rescue. But he’ll be here for the wedding tomorrow.” She answered.
“Make sense, he is a busy man.”
“Artemis, why don’t you want Discord to be here?”
“Because I’m worried that he might start some trouble with the New Yorkers. They are here in an alien world where everything is very foreign to them. And I don’t want Discord to freak them out. You and I had to deal with his bullshit when we first met him, and I don’t want the same thing to happen to them.”
“He would do no such thing to your friends. I know you and Discord don’t have the best relationship, but that’s no excuse to exclude him.” She spoke.
“It’s not about me. It’s about making sure that everyone has a fun day without anyone needing therapy. I can handle a lot of things, like Twilight weird experiments, Pinkie Pie’s pinky sense and world changing events to name a few. Not witnessing one of my friends having a psychotic break.”
“He is not that draconquus anymore, he doesn’t want to hurt any pony. He will be on his best behavior. I’m sure of it.”
Artemis weighed his options. He could just tell Discord to go home so his friends wouldn’t be at risk from his antics. But now he thought about it, the chances of him acting up is pretty low since Twilight, Apollo and himself were here.
Finally, he had made his decision. “Ok I’ll give him one chance.”
Fluttershy let out a sigh of relief.
“But if he causes Annie to be a therapist for one of our friends, I am not afraid of throwing that man into a mountain.” Artemis said. “Do you have anything else to say?”
“Not really.”
“Ok.” Artemis got rid of the privacy spell before he and Fluttershy rejoin the group.
“So, what did you guys talk about?” Spike asks.
“We were talking about Disc-“
“Me and Fluttershy were talking about what we can do while we were in the city. Like going to the indoor go kart track, and restaurant row. And maybe when we go back to the castle, we can play some dodgeball.” Artemis spoke up.
“Oh hell, no! Anything but that!” Tasha stated.
“If Atlas is playing, I don’t want be anywhere near the Gym.” Nicholas said with his arms crossed.
“I want to see my 22nd birthday thank you very much.” Tyrone stated.
“What’s so bad about playing dodgeball with Atlas?” Cheese asks, RD.
“If you’re on the opposite team, he could be the scariest opponent you will ever have.” She answered.
“So you’re fine with everything else?” Artemis ask.
“Yes!” His childhood friends responded.
“But let’s look around downtown before we do anything. I want to take some pictures.” Tyrone suggested.
“Sure thing.”
===•••===
After they were done spending time in downtown, the group made their way to one of the most famous streets in the world. Restaurant Row.
*Whew* “We finally made it.” Twilight said, tiredly before looking down at her swollen belly.
“Are you ok?” Artemis ask.
“I’m fine, just a little tired.” Twilight reassured him.
“Sure.” He said before turning to the rest of the group. “Hey guys, do you want to take a break and maybe get something to munch on?”
“I don’t mind taking a little rest.” Nicholas said.
“Me neither, my feet started to kill me.” Rarity stated.
“I am craving some cake right now.” Pinky said in thought.
“Apollo, are you coming with us?” Artemis asks.
“Nah. Me, Spike, Tasha and Tyrone are going to go on ahead, but we will be back before you know it.”
“All right see you later.”
“See ya.” Apollo said before walking away.
“Look at this place, I never thought I would see so many nice restaurants on one street.” Tasha said as she held her boyfriend‘s hand.
“I’m guessing this is one of the nobles' favorite hangout spots?” Tyrone said, after noticing the amount of wealthy looking ponies in the area.
“Pretty much. There is a lot of world class restaurants here. Most of them are really good but there are others that are not worth it. Their portions are really tiny and expensive.” Spike mentioned.
“I don’t get that at all, it’s so weird. But they are lucky that the Golden Circle it’s not here or else those restaurants would’ve gone out of business.” Said Apollo.
“So which restaurant would you recommend?”
“The Tasty Treat. It’s one of the best restaurants I have ever been to.” Apollo suggested.
“Good choice.” Spike nodded in approval.
“Honestly, I don’t care where we go. I’m willing to try anything.” Tasha spoke.
“Me too, except the carrot dog. That has to be the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard of.” Tyrone mentioned.
“Don’t hate it until you try it.” Spike responded.
“Hmmm, no thanks.”
===•••===
On the other side of the city, in one of the most famous museums in the country. Andrew was looking at paintings depicting Equestria’s many ancient battles.
When he and his family arrived at the museum after exploring the ancient Canterlot Colosseum (which is still in use by the way.) He couldn’t help but be amazed of everything the museum had. It was so fascinating to him.
“Beautiful, aren’t they?” Gallaxia said as she walked right next to the human.
“They are, I never seen anything like them. These paintings are just as interesting as the ones from Europe.” Andrew replied.
“I’m glad you agree. It’s nice to see that every pony still remembers and appreciate what I have done.”
“Who wouldn’t? You did a lot of good things during your long reign. It would’ve been a shame if people forgot what you did.”
“True.” Gallaxia answered.
After a few moments of silence, Andrew turns to look at the former empress. “Galaxia, if you don’t mind me asking, how did you do it?”
“Do what?”
“All the things you did. How did you find the courage to do it?”
Galaxia thought her answer over before speaking.
“Honestly, I don’t know. As long as I can remember, I always wanted to do the right thing. When I first heard of what the six tribes were doing to each other, I knew I couldn’t just sit by and watch. So, I came down to Equis. I didn’t do it to be praised or become a legend, I just wanted to help them.”
“Wait, you didn’t care at all?” Andrew asked.
Gallaxia nodded.
“Wow, that’s very honorable. We need more people like that.” Andrew said with respect. “I wouldn’t be surprised if you were popular in politics after you came back.”
“Oh no, I don’t do politics anymore, I retired from that a long time ago. I mainly focus on military matters.” She said. “Besides many of my views are not as game changing like they were back during the kingdom’s early years. Many ponies see me as a moderate.”
“Moderate?!” Andrew said in shock. “Lass, you’re no moderate. You would’ve been considered a progressive by human standards.”
“I can see where my ponies come from though. I mean, Equestria didn’t become a constitutional monarchy until Celestia’s time.”
“Despite that, you wouldn’t be considered average at all. Hell, idiots would have called you a bloody communist. Just like what they did to RFK and John Glenn.”
“I’m assuming they are American presidents, right?” Galaxia ask.
“They were. Many people believe they were some of the best in US history.”
“And their fellow humans still insulted them?” Galaxia shook her head. “Immature things like that are one of the many reasons why I will never get involved with modern politics in Country.”
“It’s that bad here?” Andrew asks.
“Let’s just say I do not envy the Chancellor or our kids, especially when they have to deal with the Senate. Too many headaches.” She answered.
“Well in that case, let agree that space is much better.” Andrew suggested.
“You don’t need to tell me twice.” Galaxia agreed.
“I don’t see why not.” He said before following Galaxia out of the room.
===•••===
Apollo and his friends were sitting around the large fountain near the main entrance of the mall. Waiting for the rest of his family to come.
They arrived at the mall 20 minutes earlier and for the entire time, they were either relaxing or looking around in nearby stores.
Before Apollo could take his phone out of his pocket to call Atlas and see where he was. He spotted his brother and the rest of the family entering the mall.
“Hey guys, they’re here.” He said to his friends before his family members spotted them and made their way over to them.
“Hey, every pony, sorry for taking so long.” Atlas said.
“It’s all right you came just in time.” Twilight replied.
“Hello Apollo, hello Artemis.” Stephanie greeted. “You boys weren’t lying; this place is huge.”
“Told you, Mom.” Artemis answered.
“Huge is not the right word for this place.” Andrew said as he looked around the large atrium in amazement. “It’s going to take a while to get used to this.”
“Don’t worry, we have plenty of time.” Galaxia said. “So how did your day go?”
“We had a blast.” Tyrone said. “We had a lot of fun in downtown, I took a bunch of pictures. We went to Restaurant Row, try some things over there and we went to a few parks. How about you?”
“We had a nice time as well.” Maya answered. “We took a tour of the Senate, we went to the Colosseum, we stopped at the Canterlot temple to check it out, and we went to the fashion district.”
“Oh, you went to the temple?” Artemis ask.
“Yeah, that place looked pretty interesting, especially since it looked like something from ancient Greece except not in ruins.” Stephanie said.
“Did anything interesting happen when you were in the fashion district?” Apollo ask.
“Not really, except I never seen so many rich looking people walking around in one place. They look like they were wearing more money that I make in a month and that’s saying something.”
“Hey, we encounter a bunch of rich people in restaurant row as well.” Tyrone spoke up.
“Really? Whatever fancy ass job they have, sign me up. I want that money.” Maya joked, which made Stephanie and Gallaxia laugh.
“Maya, you are ridiculous.” The former Empress went a tear from her eye.
It was at this moment when Discord teleported in front of them, holding a large bowl of ice cream.
“It is.” Atlas, answered.
“It finally nice to meet them.” He said with a bow. “I’m sorry to cut this conversation short, but I have some ponies to talk to real quick.” He teleported to the other side of the fountain where Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie and Tasha were at.
“Who is that?” Andrew asked.
“That is Discord the Draconequus. He is the Lord of chaos.” Gallaxia answered.
“Does that mean, he is much weirder than Pinkie Pie?” Andrew ask.
“He is Pinkie Pie, but on steroids.” Twilight said.
“Huh, well thanks for the heads up.”
“Can we go now? I’m ready to check out the aquarium.” Tyrone stated.
“Sure. Galaxia, Deborah and the cousins are going to the aquarium as well, so you can join them.” Stephanie said.
“Cool.”
“What are you guys going to be doing?” Andrew asked his sons.
“Me and our friends are going to be walking around a little. While our Ponyville friends are going to the botanical garden.” Artemis got up from his seat.
“All right, but if you need anything, me and your mum will be in the food court, wherever that is.”
“Ok, see you later.” Apollo replied before everyone went their separate ways in the large shopping center.
They stayed in the megamall until the sun went down. After that, the ponies went back to Ponyville and the humans and Alicorns went back to the castle.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
4:50 PM
Apollo was driving on the I-87, quietly sing along to the radio while his siblings were fast asleep. It’s been over six hours since Yukon triplets left Equestria and began their road trip across the great state of New York.
Since then, they drove through beautiful scenic areas, heavy traffic and saw familiar sights they thought they would never see again.
But since they only had 20 dollars between themselves and not wanting to be seen, they didn’t stop for anything except for the usual bathroom breaks.
Driving across a large state like New York is pretty exhausting. Which is why Apollo decided to switch with Artemis three hours ago. Much to Artemis’ appreciation.
As he was about to leave Yonkers, New York, the beautiful skyline of New York City started to appear in the distance. A city, he is proud to be born and raised in.
“Hello, New York. Long time no see.” He smiled.
Before Apollo can wake up his siblings so they can see the skyline, he heard a loud siren that made his blood run cold.
He looked in the side mirror and saw that there was a cop car with its lights on.
“Oh shit.”
Apollo thought of all sorts of ideas of how to get away from the cop car. Each one was just as dumb as the last.
“It looks like putting all those spells on that fake license plate was all for nothing.” He sighed before putting on his right indicator.
He pulled over to the lane on his right and to his surprised, the cop car sped past him. Leaving him in the dust.
“Huh, I stand corrected.” He mumbled before going back to his original lane.
“What was that?” Artemis yawned.
“Yeah, what’s making all that noise?” Atlas chimed in as he rubbed his eyes.
“The cops.”
The grogginess Artemis feeling disappeared he heard that. “Cops!”
“Where?!” Atlas looked out of the window.
“Don’t worry, they just passed us.”
“Oh, thank God. I don’t know what I would’ve done if we actually got pulled over.” Artemis said.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_zBH6h33Ew&pp=ygUhb25jZSB1cG9uIGEgdGltZSBpbiBuZXcgeW9yayBjaXR5
“Wait a minute, are we in Bronx?” Atlas asks.
“Yep, we’re back home. I was about to wake you guys up to see the skyline, but the police decided to do that for me.” Apollo smiled.
“Hell, yeah baby, we’re back in New York!” Atlas cheered.
“New York, New York. City, so nice.” Artemis started.
“They named it twice!” Atlas and Apollo said in unison.
After they drove into Manhattan, they decided to take the more scenic route. Which added an extra 40 minutes to their drive, but they didn’t care. Seeing how much the hometown has changed over the past three years with more than worth it.
They went past Central Park and drove through Times Square. They even decided to drive around lower Manhattan before going over the Manhattan Bridge into Brooklyn.
“Wow, I can’t believe how much the city has changed while we were gone.” Artemis said.
“Who knew that so much gentrification could happen such short amount of time. I can’t wait to explore the city more.” Atlas commented.
“Same over here, but for now, let’s find a parking space.” Apollo said.
“With a vehicle this big, finding space big enough for it, is going to be impossible.” Artemis stated.
“Hey, have a little bit of hope. Anything is possible.” Atlas replied.
“We’ll see.”
A few moments later, Apollo spotted a large parking space right in front of the childhood home. “Artemis, might want to eat those words now. Because I just found the parking space right there.”
Artemis said nothing.
After doing a U-turn, Apollo parked right next to the sidewalk. The first one to get out of the vehicle was Atlas. “Finally, I can stretch.” He said as he stretched his arms.
“Hey Artemis, do you have the keys?”
“It’s right here.” Artemis replied as he took his keychain out of his pocket.
But before he can walk up the stoop, Atlas stopped him. “Hold on now, do we even know if our parents still live here?”
“Of course they do, why wouldn’t they?” Apollo said.
“Think about it. They bought this apartment to raise us and we’ve been missing three long years. Possibly presume dead as well. It wouldn’t be surprising to me if they did move away because this place reminds them of what they lost.”
“Oh crap, you’re right. I can’t believe we didn’t realize this sooner.” Artemis said.
“Before we jump to that conclusion, how about we just ask someone if our parents still live here?” Apollo suggested.
“Are you crazy? You want to reveal ourselves now?” Artemis ask in shock.
“What else should we do, Pluto? We either ask someone or we stay in the truck for God knows how long.”
Artemis sighed. “You have a point, but who are we going to ask?”
Atlas snapped his fingers before speaking. “How Mr. Tony? His pizzeria is just down the street. He would definitely know if our parents still live here.”
“Titan, do you have any suggestions?” Artemis ask.
“Nope, do you?”
“I can’t think of anyone that’s nearby. I guess, Mr. Tony is our best and only option.”
“Great, I’ll go over to the pizzeria and ask him.”
“Ok but be careful, Jupiter.” Apollo said.
“Don’t worry, I will.” Atlas said in a muffled voice before walking away.
===•••===
The sound of a bell could be heard as Atlas enter the cozy pizzeria. The place is decorated in a way that makes you feel like you were in Italy. With pictures of the Italian countryside, family members and newspaper clippings of the restaurant's achievements.
‘This place hasn’t changed one bit.’ Atlas thought as he walked up to the counter.
Behind the counter is a white Italian man with black hair and an impressive mustache. He was currently talking on the phone. His name is Tony Marino, owner of Marino pizzeria.
After he put the phone down, he looked at Atlas and smiled. “Welcome to Marino pizzeria, how may I serve you today?” He said with an Italian accent.
“I’m not here to order anything, I want to ask a question.”
“Certainly, what is it?”
“Do you know if Mr. and Mrs. Yukon still live down the street?”
“…Unless you’re a family member or a friend of theirs, I don’t feel comfortable giving that information so freely.” Tony said, thinking that the man in front of him was the paparazzi.
Atlas wasn’t surprised. Tony has always seen everyone in the local community as his Family and always looked out for them.
So he decided to do something that he might regret later. “Don’t freak out.” He said before pulling his scarf down.
To say that Tony was shocked would be a complete understatement. Standing in front of him was a boy who he watched grew up into a fine young man that Tony thought he would never see again.
After he stared in stun silence for a few moments before trying to speak. “A..Atlas, is that you?” His voice was full of emotion.
“Yes, it is, Mr. Tony.”
The 51-year-old rubbed his eyes to see if they were playing tricks on him. When he saw that his eyes were perfectly fine, he walked from behind the counter and hugged the young man. “Oh my God, I can’t believe it. It’s you, it’s really you.”
“I missed you too.” Atlas said, hugging him back.
This little moment between them got the attention of some of the patrons in the pizzeria, and they started to whisper to each other.
‘Dammit, I guess the cat is out of the bag.’ Atlas thought before they ended the hug.
“Emily, come out here real quick. There’s someone you need to see.” Tony yelled.
A few moments later, a white Italian lady with brown hair walked out of the kitchen while wiping a flower covered hand on her apron. “Let’s make this quick, you know I’m busy in the kit-“ The moment she saw Atlas, her eyes widened.
“It is, Miss Emily.” Atlas smiled.
“Oh my God, this is a miracle. Welcome back.” She said before kissing him on his cheek. “I can’t believe you’re here. What happened to the three of you?”
“Well, we got sucked into a portal and ended up in the middle of a large forest in Canada. Luckily, for us we’re found by a local village, and they took us in. That’s where we were for the past three years.” Atlas explained.
“Thank goodness you three were taking care of by such wonderful people.” Tony said before noticing the ring on Atlas’ ring finger. “What is this?”
“Oh, that’s my wedding ring. I got married last October.”
“Aww, that’s so sweet. Congratulations on your marriage.” Emily said.
“Thank you. I’m not the only one though. Apollo got engaged in December and Artemis got married in February. In fact, he is going to be a dad soon.”
“Artemis is going to be a dad? Mamma Mia, this is great. I can already imagine the looks on your parents faces when they see you and hear the news. Tell Artemis that we said congratulations.” Tony said.
“I will, but enough about me and my brothers, how was everyone doing after we disappeared?”
Their faces fell. “Oh geez, where do we start?” Tony wondered. “Everyone in the local area was shocked when you three went missing. Your parents were devastated, it was such a sad time.”
“But during that time, everyone came to get her to support your parents, not only Brooklyn but the entire city. We were saddened when the search and rescue missions came to an end, but everyone still looked out for your parents, even to day.” Emily explained.
“That explains a large mural of us in Manhattan. So they still live here?” Atlas ask.
“Yes, they do. Sorry for not telling you sooner. You know how I am.”
“It’s all right, Mr. Tony, I understand. Oh, I almost forgot, how is Annie and Claire doing?”
“They’re doing great, Claire is finishing up her final year of culinary school and Annie became a therapist.”
“That’s wonderful. I’m happy for them.” Atlas said before checking the time on his phone. “It was good seeing you guys again after so long. But I have to get going.”
“Wait a moment, I’ll be right back.” Emily said before going back into the kitchen.
Moments later, she came back with two brown paper bags and handed them to Atlas. “Here you go.”
“What is this?”
“Garlic bread and some brownies, on the house.” She answered.
“That’s not necessary, I can pay for this. I don’t have that much money on me, but I-“
“I insist. You and your brothers must’ve went through a lot in the last three years. It’s the least we can do.” Emily smiled as Tony nodded in agreement. “She’s right, you know.”
“All right, you win. Thanks for the food and I’ll see you later.”
“See you real soon, my boy.” Tony said before Atlas left the restaurant. “It was really nice seeing him again. The Angels above were really looking out for them.”
“I couldn’t agree more. Should we call Stephanie and let them know that her boys are back?” Emily ask.
“Nah, I think it’s better if they do it themselves.”
===•••===
Andrew Yukon was driving down Flatbush Avenue in his green 1998 Ford Explorer, coming back from a long day at work. For the entire day, he and his colleagues were analyzing the data they gathered from the global Aurora light show that happened last night. And they found what was causing such an unusual event. Another magnet field.
But this created more questions than answers.
Like the space enthusiast and scientist, he is, Andrew tried to figure out where this field came from, but to no avail. He figured that he would have a better luck tomorrow.
When he arrived on the street where his apartment is located, he saw that there was a big gray heavy-duty truck parked right in front of his home.
“What the hell?” He said slight frustration. Finding parking during rush-hour was already hard enough. But luckily for him, there was another space nearby.
“Bloody tourists.” He mumbled as he parked his SUV.
After he cross the street and walked half a block to his apartment, Andrew noticed two young men hang out on his stoop.
“Oi, Young lads! I don’t want to be rude, but can you please hang out somewhere el-“ Andrew froze when he saw their faces. They did the same.
His mind tuned out everything as he stared at the young men. He rubbed his eyes then he was hallucinating. When he realized that he wasn’t seeing things, tears started to form in his eyes.
He got closer to them and said. “This can’t be, Artemis, Apollo?”
“Hello, dad long time no see.” Apollo greeted while trying to keep his emotions in check.
This was a straw that broke the camel's back as Andrew hugged both of his sons tightly and began to cry.
In that moment he felt all sorts of emotions he hadn't felt in three long years, and it felt wonderful.
“Dad?”
He looked up to see his third and final baby boy standing a few yards away.
Almost immediately, he ran over to them and joined the group hug.
“I knew my boys would come back someday. You don’t know how much me and your mother wanted to see you all again.”
“We missed you too, dad.” Artemis said before they ended the hug and wiped away their tears.
“Come on lads, let’s get out of the cold. We have a lot of catching up to do.”
After his sons made themselves comfortable in the living room, Andrew pulled his phone out of his pocket and started dialing his wife’s number with shaky fingers.
Stephanie: “Good afternoon, Andrew. What’s up?”
Andrew: “Afternoon Steph, are you almost done with your shift?”
Stephanie: “Yes, I am. I’m about to leave in a few minutes. Andy, why does it sound like you just finished crying? Is everything ok?”
Andrew: “Everything is wonderful. You’re not going to believe this, but our boys are back home.”
Stephanie: Andrew, that’s impossible. The search and rescue efforts were discontinued more than a year ago. You know this. It hurts me as much as it’s hurts you to say this, but they’re gone. But they live on our heart.”
Andrew: “That’s what I thought too until I found them standing in front of our apartment. I don’t know how they came back, but they did. I’m going to give one of them the phone.”
Andrew handed the phone over to Apollo.
Apollo: ”Hello mom, how’s it going?”
He didn’t get a response as he heard the phone on the other end hit the ground.
A few seconds of silence later, and he heard his mom again, but this time it sounded like she was getting emotional. “Apollo is that you?”
“Yes it is, mom. The rest of us want to say hi as well.” He said before putting the phone on speaker.
”Hi mom.” Atlas greeted
“We can’t wait to see you again.” Artemis said.”
Then they heard their mother crying.
Stephanie: “Oh my God, my baby boys are back! You don’t know how happy I am that you’re safe and sound. I’ll be back home as soon as I can.”
After that, she hung up.
10 minutes later, Stephanie slammed open her front door and ran into the living room.
===•••===
“I have so many questions.” Stephanie said as she sat down while trying to process everything that just happened. “What happened to you three?”
“It’s a very long story, but we can tell you a summarize version of it.” Artemis said.
“It’s right we’re all ears.” His dad replied.
“After we got sucked through that weird portal, we ended up in a forest in Canada. We were out in the elements for a little while, until a few people from a nearby village found us and took us in. That was our home for the past three years.”
“All this time you three were in Canada?” Stephanie put her face in her hands. “I knew we should’ve looked beyond the Niagara region.”
“Honey, don’t blame yourself.” Andrew said before he turned to his boys. “What is it like in that little village?”
“It’s a nice little community, about 1000 people live there, including ourselves. Everyone is very friendly with each other. The other five villages that are nearby pretty much the same.” Atlas answered.
“After they rescue you, did they try to contact anyone to let them know that you’re still alive?”
“They did but they weren’t able to contact anyone since they barely had any technology at all. And we were in a very isolated area so we had no bars. We tried our best to find civilization, but we weren’t successful. After so many failed attempts we gave up. But it wasn’t all bad, we made some new life long friends, learned new things and found love.” Apollo said before showing them his engagement ring.
“Is that what I think it is?” Stephanie said in shock.
“It is. I’m engaged.”
“Oh my gosh, my little boy is engaged. I’m so happy for you.” She hugged Apollo tightly.
“Thanks, mom but I’m not the only one.”
“You two are engaged as well?” Stephanie asked as she looked at her other two sons.
“We’re not engaged, we’re married.” Atlas answered. “I got married back in October.”
“I got married back in late February. Hey mom I would recommend you sit down for the news I’m going to tell you.” Artemis said.
“Ok, what is it?” She said after sitting down.
“You and dad are going to be grandparents.”
“What.” Stephanie said with wide eyes.
“Are you serious?” His Andrew said in shock.
“Yep, and if I remember correctly, my kid should be born in May.”
Both of his parents stared at him for a few seconds before Stephanie jumped up for joy and yelled. “I’M GOING TO BE A GRANDMA!”
“Blimey, I never thought this day could get any better. I can’t wait to see the little fella.” Andrew smiled.
“You know what, we’re going to go out to celebrate.” Stephanie declared. “And I know just a place to go.”
“Where would that be? Every borough has something fun to do.” Atlas said.
“Oh, come on boys. You’ve been away from civilization for so long that you forgot about one of your favorite restaurants?”
It took them a moment to realize what she was talking about. “We’re going to TGI Fridays?” Artemis asks.
“That’s right. You know I haven’t been there in a long time.” Stephanie said.
“Why is that?” Apollo asks.
“Because the place reminded me of you three and I didn’t want break down in public.”
“Oh, I’m sorry.”
“You have nothing to apologize for. The three of you are back home and that’s all that matters. Just give me a sec I going to get my jacket.” She said before walking away.
“Boys, before you even think about it, we’re not taking that behemoth to Manhattan. There’s no way in hell thing is going to fit anywhere.” Andrew said.
“Andy, what are you talking about?” She yelled from down the hallway.
“The large truck that’s outside of our apartment belongs to our boys!” He said.
She walked back into the family room. “Really, huh. Where did you get that truck? It looks really nice.”
“Don’t encourage them.” Andrew said with a deadpan look.
“It’s a long story.” Artemis said.
===•••===
After they arrive at the restaurant in order their meals, the triplets told their parents all the fun adventures they had with their friends and family back in Equestria.
Even though they had to change their stories a little bit to not raise any suspicion, they were still 98% accurate. Unfortunately for Apollo, he wasn’t able to tell them any of his stories that happened during Black Friday.
“Celestia and Luna are that skilled?” Andrew asks.
“Yeah, they can be pretty intimidating when someone tries to harm anyone in their village. When we first met them, we thought they were just two pretty ladies sitting on their thrones.”
“That’s why you never judge a book by its cover.”
“She could defend herself, but she’s not as skilled as the royal sisters. After she gives birth, she’s planning on to take some lessons with Galaxia.”
It was at this moment when the waitress came over to their table with their food. After she left, Atlas took a big bite of his bacon cheeseburger.
“Better than that pescatarian lifestyle?”
“Don’t get me wrong, they know how to cook really well, but I miss this. I think I forgot what bacon taste like to be honest.”
“Man, I’m in heaven.” Apollo said before he took another bite of his ribs.
“I can see that. The way you three are eating is like you’re starving or something.” Stephanie said.
“Starving for good old Americana, yes, yes we are.” Artemis said before he sipped his Pepsi.
“Oh, I almost forgot, do you have any photos or videos of your home away from home?” Andrew asks.
“No, we do not. That weird portal damaged our phones a little bit and the camera was one of the features that was damaged.” Apollo lied.
“That’s unfortunate. Well, hopefully we’ll be able to meet them very soon.”
“….Yeah, soon.”
===•••===
After a fun evening in Manhattan, the Yukon family decided that it was time to call the night and go back home.
After they arrived at their apartment, Andrew look back to see that his sons weren’t coming inside. “Are you coming?”
“We are. We just need to get something from the truck first.” Atlas said.
“All right, we’re inside if you need us.” Andrew said before closing the front door.
After that, the triplets got inside of their truck.
Apollo opened up the glove box, revealing a black and green walkie-talkie.
He turned it on and said. “Earth to Canterlot, is any pony there?”
A few moments later, they heard a response.
“Good evening, Celestia.” Apollo replied before handing the walkie-talkie to Atlas.
“Did you arrive safe and sound?”
“Yes, we did. New York City changed a lot in the past three years, and we just came back from a nice evening with our parents.” Atlas said.
“That’s good to hear Atlas, how are they doing?”
“They’re doing well now. When we first arrived back home our parents were so happy that they literally broke down crying. We did the same.”
“Well, that’s only natural since you guys haven’t seen each other in a long time. Did you tell them about us?” Celestia ask.
“Yes, and no. While we were making our way to NY, we decide to make up a cover story about us being in a Village in the middle of the Canadian wilderness. Besides that, and your powers, we pretty much told them everything about every pony back home. We even told them that Artemis truck is a rental.”
“That is pretty smart.” Celestia replied.
“Thanks, but we don’t feel good telling them that cover story.” Atlas said.
“I know it’s hard for you to stretch the truth to your parents. But I think you’re doing the right thing. Besides your important mission, the three of you came back to Earth to reunite with your family and make up for lost time. Not to make them scared for the future.”
“We know, but it doesn’t make it any better.” Artemis said. “But at the same time, I am not excited to tell them the truth.”
“I think they’ll be happier to know that you been safe and sound on an alien planet than surviving in the middle of nowhere.”
Atlas chuckled. “You got a point there. So how is everything going back in Equestria?”
“Everything is fine. Twilight and her friends are back in Ponyville. Mom and dad are sleep and Luna is patrolling the dream realm. Apollo, Luna said she loves you and have a good night. Artemis, Twilight said the same thing.”
“Tell Luna I said I love you too.” Apollo said.
“Tell Twilight, the same thing as well.” Artemis said.
“Don’t worry, I will.”
“Before we end this conversation, I want to ask how is everything doing on the world stage?” Apollo asks.
“Besides weird troop movements in the Changeling Empire, everything is fine as far as I know. The River Federation is still a techno capitalist nation, and Kemerovo’s King is still being everyone’s favorite mad stallion.”
“Looks like everything is right with the galaxy.” Atlas said.
“Hold on, troop movements? Shouldn’t we be concerned about this?” Artemis asks.
“Normally, I would say yes. But it’s more than likely a military exercise. The reason why I called it unusual is because they’re very close to the border. Just in case, the Marines are tracking there every move.”
“Phew, that’s a relief.”
“Is there anything else you want to ask?” Celestia inquired.
“No, that’s all for now.” Atlas answered.
“All right, good night.”
“Good night, Tia.” Apollo said.
“Night, Celestia.” Said Artemis.
“Love you, Atlas.” Celestia said.
“Love you too, Celestia. We will talk to you again very soon.” Atlas said before he turned off the walkie-talkie and handed it to Apollo, who put it back in the glove compartment.
After that, the triplets got out of the truck and entered the apartment.
“Atlas, Apollo, Artemis, can come into the living room real quick?” Stephanie asks.
“Ok.” The triplets replied as they walked into the living room.
“What’s going on, mom?” Apollo asks.
“Since you guys are back home safe and sound. Me and your dad decided to take the rest of the week off. We also let the entire family know you’re back and now they are coming over tomorrow.” She beamed.
“Really, that’s great. When are they coming?” Atlas ask.
“Auntie Maya and Uncle Barlow should be here early in the afternoon, and the rest of the family will come after that.”
“It looks like we’re going to have another busy day tomorrow.” Apollo said to his siblings.
“What do you mean by that?” Andrew asks.
“We were planning on to see our old friends.” Atlas answered.
“Well, in that case, we can invite them over if you want.” Stephanie said.
“Really?” Artemis asks.
“Of course, they missed you guys as much as we did. I will call them tomorrow morning.”
“Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” Andrew replied.
A few moments later, Atlas yawned. “I’m going to bed.”
“I think it’s time for me to go as well.”
“Same.” Artemis replied.
“Good night, lads.” Andrew said.
“Good night, dad. Good night, mom.” The triplets replied before they went upstairs.
After they got ready for bed, the triplets went to their old bedrooms and drifted off to dreamland. Not knowing that the news of the return was quickly spreading throughout the city.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
January 25, 2012 A.D
Apollo woke up hearing the sound of an alarm coming from his iPhone. He let out a groan as he uses his magic to levitate the device from his nightstand to his hand.
After he turned off the alarm, Apollo sat up in his bed and stretched his back.
His old bedroom was exactly the way he left it three years ago. The walls are painted baby blue with a few posters on them. Most of them were about airplanes or space exploration, but two of the posters were sports related.
After Apollo played around on his phone for a little bit, he decided to get out of bed and get ready for the day.
15 minutes later, Apollo walked down the stairs and enter the kitchen to see his dad cooking some breakfast and his siblings eating at the counter.
“Good morning, Apollo. You’re up early.” His father greeted.
“Good morning everypo- *ahem* I mean everybody.” Apollo responded.
“Morning.” Atlas greeted
“Good morning.” Artemis said.
“What’s for breakfast?” Apollo asks.
“Waffles and bacon. Do you want some?” Andrew asks.
“Yes, please.” Apollo said as he sat down on a stool right next to Artemis.
“All right, coming right up.”
While he was waiting on his food, Apollo decided to watch the TV. “I didn’t know you guys were watching Today show.”
“Of course we are. It’s been a long time since we last watched the show and we used to watch it every morning. So why the heck not?” Atlas said.
“Damn right.” Artemis chimed in. “I wonder what their main news story going to be.”
A few moments later, his question would be answered when the Today show came back from commercial.
TV: ‘Welcome back to the today show everyone today’s top story is about the Niagara Brothers. Almost 3 years ago on June 11, 2009, three identical brothers name Atlas, Artemis and Apollo Yukon disappeared at Niagara Falls, New York by strange circumstances. As time went on, people start giving up hope they’ll ever be found. Thankfully, this tragic story has a happy ending. Since yesterday afternoon, the three boys have been spotted in Brooklyn and in Manhattan. Social media post about them has been going viral as well.’
The triplets stared at the TV in utter shock.
“Oh my God.” Artemis mumbled.
“We barely been in the city for one day and they already know we’re here. I have to give it to them. These reporters are really good at their jobs.” Atlas said.
“Man, I was hoping that we would get a few days of peace. But it looks like we have to deal with everyone’s eyes on us from now on.” Apollo grumbled.
“Of course everyone’s eyes are going to be on you three. You’re the most famous set of triplets in New York State. Since when you guys became so shy?” Their father asks.
“We didn’t, it just we dealt with this before.”
“Oh? Pray tell.” He asked before taking the strips of bacon off of the pan.
“A few weeks after we arrived at the villages, we became pretty popular among the locals. The reason why is because they never had ‘outsiders’ like us before. Before we knew we were asked a bunch of questions about ourselves and our hometown in front of an audience. We even received love letters from a ton of girls. Those five months of fame were weird but fun at the same time.” Artemis explained.
“I’m not surprised that happened since the three of you are pretty handsome fellows.” Andrew complemented.
“Dad.”
“What, it’s true. Why do you think that you went from single to married and starting a family in just three years?”
“By being ourselves and treating our dates right?”
“Those two things are very important but looks also play role as well.” Andrew walked over to the counter and placed Apollo’s meal before him. “Here we go. Enjoy.”
“Thank you.” Apollo said before cutting his waffles and taking a bite.
“So how are we going to handle our newfound fame this time?” Artemis asks.
“Like we did last time, smile and wave for the camera.” Atlas replied.
===•••===
Apollo was relaxing in the living room, looking at some funny videos on Facebook when he heard the doorbell.
“I got it!” He got up from his comfy chair and open the front door to see that there were five familiar faces outside. Two guys and three girls.
Two of the girls on Apollo left, have white skin and dark brown hair. They are the Marino sisters; Annie is the older sister, and Claire is the younger sister. Standing in between the sisters and the guys is a black girl with black hair that went down to her shoulders. Her name is Tasha Heron.
Standing right next to Tasha is a tall, black guy with soft curly black hair. His name is Tyrone Anderson. Behind all of them is a tall white guy with hazelnut colored hair. His name is Nicholas Donetsk.
All of these people are the triplets’ childhood friends.
“My brother from another mother, is so good to see you!” Tyrone said before they did their special handshake.
“I thought you guys weren’t coming over until later this evening.” He spoke.
“We were, but we decided to see you guys now and make up for lost time.” Nicholas said with a water down eastern European accent.
“Well, I’m glad you guys decide to come over a few hours early.” Apollo replied as he allowed his old friends into the apartment. After he closed the front door, Apollo walked over to the stairs. “Atlas, Artemis, you need to come downstairs!”
“Why?” Atlas yelled back.
“It’s a surprise.”
A few moments later, they came out of Atlas room. “This better be good because we were just watching an episode of the Boondocks.” Artemis said as they walked down the stairs.
“Don’t worry, it will be.” Apollo smiled.
The moment Atlas and Artemis came into the living room, their eyes wide with shock.
“No way. I thought we won’t see you until this evening, not that I’m complaining.” Atlas said.
“We couldn’t wait until then to see ya. So here we are.” Tasha said.
“In that case makes some room for us.” Artemis said.
A few special handshakes later, Artemis and Atlas sat down.
“I’m guessing you guys have a lot of questions for us.” Apollo said as he got comfortable in his recliner.
“That’s the understatement of the century. We don’t even know where to begin.” Claire said.
“Yeah, it’s going to take hours for you three to answer all of our questions.” Nicholas said.
“How about we start talk about the elephant in the room? Is it true that you guys gotten married?” Annie asks.
“We have. We even got the rings to prove it.” Artemis said as he showed them his ring.
“Wow, that’s a beautiful ring.” Tasha complemented.
“Thanks.”
“So, who’s the first one to get married?” Tasha asks.
“Believe it or not, it’s Artemis. His wedding was last February and he’s the one that’s becoming a dad soon.” Atlas answered.
“No fucking way!” Tyrone said in surprise. “You’re joking.”
“We’re not. In fact, I’m the last one to get married. My wedding is in February.” Apollo replied.
“Huh, I always thought Apollo would be the first one to get married.” Tyrone said. “Do you have any photos of your wives?”
“Unfortunately, no. Our phones got damaged when they went through the portal.”
“That’s sucks.” Nicholas said before the group of friends heard someone coming down the stairs.
“What is making all that noise?” Stephanie wondered before she saw her sons’ friends. “Oh, hello kids.”
“Hey Mrs. Yukon.” They greeted.
“What are you guys doing here?”
“We’re making up for lost time.” Nicholas answered.
“That’s wonderful. Do you need any refreshments or anything?”
“We’re good.” Atlas said.
“Ok, if you need anything, I’m upstairs.” She said.
“Glad to see that Miss Yukon is back to joyful self.”
“Yeah, can’t remember the last time she was like this.” Tasha replied.
“It was really that bad?” Atlas asks.
“Yeah. The amount of times your parents nearly fell to a deep depression was way too high. They didn’t tell you any of this, did they?” Tyrone stated.
“Not really, but you can tell that the past three years wasn’t kind to them.”
“Any good parents would’ve been depressed like Mr. and Mrs. Yukon. If anything happened to me, my parents would’ve had a heart attack.” Nicholas chimed in.
“You’re right about that. Thank goodness they went to therapy.” Annie said.
“Ok, before this conversation goes down a depressing path, how about we ask something more positive?” Tasha suggested.
“Yeah, that’s sounds a good idea. Triplets, we heard that you were living in a village in the middle of the Canadian wilderness for three years. Is that true?” Tyrone asks.
“Yes, it is.” Atlas lied. “Besides a few nearby villages, we were in the middle of nowhere. The only thing you can see was mountains and trees.”
“It must’ve been pretty peaceful out there.” Claire said.
“It is. You can even see the stars at night.” Apollo said. “But if I have to be honest, I really miss the city, barbecue, and Black Friday.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kGPm7GwFkM&pp=ygUUZGV2aW91cyBkaWVzZWwgdGhlbWU%3D
“Lord, help us.” Claire chuckled.
“Speaking of Black Friday, is that holiday still around?” Apollo asks.
“Hell yeah, it’s still around. And it only gotten bigger and better.” Tyrone answered.
“Oh really?” Apollo had a big grin on his face.
“Yeah, you three would’ve loved it. Oh, wait you can. I have some videos of the best fights that happened on Black Friday.” Tyrone said as he handed his phone to Apollo.
(A few minutes later.)
“Jesus, that was insane.” Artemis said in shock.
“Told ya.” Tyrone smiled.
“Well, it looks like we know what we’re going to be doing on Thanksgiving.” Atlas said.
“You boys haven’t changed one bit.” Tasha chuckled.
“Why would we? Just because we’ve been living the in woods for three years of our lives, doesn’t mean we are going to change personality wise.”
“Let’s hope that stays that way.” Annie said.
“We like to, but we don’t know if we can. Our parents have been a bit protective for obvious reasons. But it wouldn’t hurt to ask.” Atlas got up from the couch and went upstairs.
When he got to his parent’s master bedroom doors, he knocked on it and waited for a response.
“Come in.” His father said.
He the door to that his parents were watching truTV world’s dumbest.
“Hey son, what do you want?” Andrew smiled.
“Nothing, I want to ask you two something. My friends invited me, Apollo and Artemis to go to Juniors. Can we go?”
As expected, his parents were caught off guard by this. “Can we come with you?” His mom asks.
“….No, it’s just a little outing with friends, that’s it.”
“Oh.”
Five seconds of awkward silence later, Andrew spoke up. “Fine, you lads can go ahead. Just be back before 1 o’clock, because we’re going to pick up your aunt from JFK and Uncle Barlow and Auntie Maya are coming at the same time.”
“Thanks dad, we will be back before you know it.”
Stephanie turned to her beloved husband with a frown on her face. “Andrew, thought we agreed that we would be more proactive about protecting our kids.”
“Yeah, but that doesn’t mean that they can’t live their lives. You don’t want them to develop cabin fever.”
“I rather have that than our boys…. disappearing again.” She said, getting scared at the thought.
Andrew wrapped an arm around her. “I’m scared too, but that doesn’t mean they can’t live their lives. They’re only going to juniors, which is just down the street from the Barclays Center, not on the other side of the state. They’ll be fine.”
‘That’s what they said last time.’ Stephanie thought.
===•••===
After the triplets and their friends arrived at the world-famous diner and ordered their milkshakes, they decided to get back to their conversation.
“Enough about us, what’s been happening to you guys while we were gone?” Artemis ask as he finishing up a sketch on his notepad.
Claire looked at Tyrone and Tasha before speaking. “Should one of us tell them or one of you going to do it?”
“Tell us what?” Apollo asks.
“That me and Tasha have been in a relationship for a year and a half now.” Tyrone said as he pulled Tasha closer.
“Nice.” Artemis said.
“Congratulations you two.” Said Atlas.
“Finally, it’s about damn time. I thought you two would never confess your feelings.” Apollo laughed.
“Wait, you knew?” Tasha asks.
“Yeah, I knew something was up between you two ever since the end of our senior year in high school. In college, your feelings were so palpable that you can cut it with a knife. Heck, I even considered to force you both on a date to confess to each other. But I decided not to.”
“Since senior year? That means you were the first one to notice.” Nicholas said.
“Pretty much.”
“Well, thanks for allowing us to figure our feelings out.” Tyrone said.
“You’re welcome. You know, I’m glad that my suspicions were correct. Now I know what Cadence feels on a daily basis.” Apollo said.
Who’s Cadence?” Tyrone asks.
“Cadences is the leader of one of the nearby villages and cousins of Celestia and Luna. She is also a really good matchmaker."
“Oh, so she is royalty as well?” Nicholas asks.
“Yes, she is."
A few moments later, their waiter came over to the table and pass out their milkshakes.
After the waiter left, Atlas sipped his chocolate milkshake and spoke up. “Besides these two lovebirds, did anything interesting happened to any of you?”
“I went on my first cruise last year.” Nicholas said.
“How long was it?” Artemis ask.
“An eight day Caribbean cruise from Fort Lauderdale. It was a great vacation, but let me tell you it took me three days to get used to the ship.”
“Why?” Apollo ask before he took a sip of his milkshake.
“Because the ship I went on was massive. Every time we went into Port, I couldn’t help but be amazed on how tiny all the other ships were compared to it.”
“Do you have any photos of your vacation?” Atlas ask.
Yes, I do. Nicholas said before handed his phone to the triplets.
The first photo they saw was Nicholas and his family standing on a pier right next to a large vessel named the Oasis of the seas.
“Damn, that thing is huge.” Said Apollo.
“Did you get sunburnt?” Artemis ask.
“Yeah, I did. It was a particularly hot day and I didn’t put on enough sunscreen.”
“At least you had fun on that day.” Atlas said before he swiped to the next photo.
“I must be seeing things. There’s no way there is a park on that ship.” Apollo said in shock.
“I see you found my photos in Central Park. That’s the most peaceful spot on the ship especially late at night. That my favorite spot on the ship.”
“What else does this behemoth have?” Atlas ask.
“A boardwalk with a little carnival area. But there’s no roller coasters sadly.”
The triplets thought he was playing with them, But they realize he wasn’t when they saw the rest of his photos.
“Congratulations Nicholas, I’m jealous now.” Atlas said before he handed the phone to Nicholas.
“Whoever’s the CEO of Royal Caribbean must’ve be crazy to build this.” Artemis said before he decided to put his art stuff away.
“Annie, Claire, do you have any interesting stuff to share?” Atlas ask.
“Besides the things my parents and our friends have already told you, not really.” Annie replied.
“Are you sure? We all know how much you and your sister like to surprise us.”
“We’re sure.” Claire answered.
===•••===
After spending two hours catching up with their childhood friends, it was time for triplets to head back home.
When they came back to the apartment, they encountered their mom getting ready to pick up her sister and her family from JFK.
So, Apollo decided to go with her while his siblings stayed home.
When they arrived at JFK, they immediately found their relatives waiting for them.
After the SUV came to a stop, Apollo came out of the vehicle to greet them.
“Hello auntie-“ before he can finish his sentence, his aunt slammed into him and hugged him tightly. His aunt is a black woman in her late 30s and 7 inches shorter than Apollo. (5 foot 10.) Her name is Deborah Andrea Anaheim-Lewis. Stephanie’s younger sister.
“My nephew back home! It’s so good to finally see you again.”
“It’s good to see you too, Auntie.” Apollo replied as he felt the oxygen getting squeezed out of his lungs. A moment later his aunt ended the hug much to his relief. He expected this, she was always a pretty strong lady.
“Apollo, my boy, how are you doing?” Deborah’s husband greeted. He is a tall black man with a fade hairstyle. His full name is Douglas Lewis.
“Everything is going great, Uncle Douglas.” Apollo said as he greeted his uncle with a strong handshake.
“Damn, your grip got stronger last time I saw you. Have you been working out in that village?”
“Mom already told you about that?”
“She did. In full detail too.” Deborah answered.
“Oh man, I wanted to tell you guys.” Apollo said playfully.
Apollo look down to see a little six-year-old boy looking up at him. Rocking the same haircut as his dad. His name is Patrick Malcolm Anaheim-Lewis.
“Hey Patrick, long time no see.” Apollo smiled.
“Hello Apollo, I missed ya.” Patrick said, hugging his adult cousin.
“I missed you too, little guy.” Apollo pat him on the head before the kid let go.
“So do you need help with your luggage?”
“Yes, please.” Douglas said, appreciating the offer.
After they put the luggage in the trunk and got in the car, Stephanie drove away.
As the family members got reacquainted with each other Apollo made a mental note that he had his siblings should stay on their P’s and Q’s from this point forward.
Because Deborah and Douglas weren’t ordinary people, they were highly skilled FBI agents.
===•••===
“Hey everyone, we’re back.” Stephanie announced as they enter the apartment.
“Welcome home, we’re in the living room and the kitchen.” A very familiar Chicago accent replied.
“Is that who I think it is?” Apollo said as he walked into the kitchen. When he got there, he saw there is a glasses wearing chubby black woman in her early 40s with long brown hair, standing near the kitchen’s island. Standing right next to her is a black guy with short black hair, also in his early 40s
The woman’s name is Maya Anaheim, one of the best aunts anyone could ever ask for. Her husband‘s name is Barlow Anaheim, the triplets' uncle and Stephanie’s younger sibling and Deborah‘s older brother.
“Uncle Barlow, Auntie Maya.” Apollo smiled as he hugged them. “It’s good to see you both.”
“It’s good to see you too. Finally, my nephews are back where they belong.” Maya said with her Chicago accent.
“Welcome home, young man.” The marine said after they ended the hug.
“Thanks.”
“What about us? You passed us by like a full Laurie.” A thick British accent said.
Apollo looked to his right and saw that his grandparents from both sides of his family were sitting in the living room.
Elderly couple sitting on the couch is his father‘s parents, Edward and Sarah Yukon. They are both white with very gray hair.
Sitting next to them is his grandma on his mother‘s side of the family. Her name is Amelia Anaheim, she is a black woman with a poofy black and gray Afro.
“Sorry granddad, sorry grandma.” Apollo said as he hugged his grandparents.
“It’s all right dear.” Sarah said.
“You know we can’t stay mad at you for long.”
“Apollo come here, let me see my long-lost grandchild.” Amelia said.
“Good afternoon, Grandma Amelia.” Apollo greeted before hugging her.
“Good afternoon to you too, baby.” Amelia said before they separated. She then turned her attention to her eldest daughter. “Stephanie, I bet you and Andrew must be happy to have your boys back.”
“We’re not happy, we’re a static. It’s been a long time since this house has been full of life like this.”
“Oh, it was wonderful as usual.” She beamed.
“Lucky.” Patrick chimed in.
“What’s going on with the little one?”
“Oh, he’s just a bit jealous that grandma was able to ride the bullet train to NY instead of him.” Deborah answered.
“Patrick is still the same train, loving kid?”
“Of course he is.”
“Aww, don’t worry child, when we go back to DC, you can ride with me.” Amelia said.
“Ok.” Patrick said before going over to his cousins.
“How are you doing, cousin?” Artemis asks.
“I’m doing fine. I miss you both.”
“We missed you too, little buddy.” Atlas said.
“So, what y’all been doing while we were gone?”
“Your sons have been telling us their stories about their lives in the village. Girl, let me tell you that we were shocked of what they were telling us. Especially the first one.” Maya said.
“Agreed. One minute you were watching a beautiful waterfall with your friends and the next you’re in the middle of nowhere. It’s a miracle that everything turned out fine at the end.” Edward said.
“Not only that, but they also got married and one of them is starting a family out there. If that’s not perseverance, I don’t know what is. And I’m proud of them for that.” Barlow said.
“Wait, one of my nephews is going to be a father?”
“Because I wanted it to be a surprise and a good way for you to reveal yours.”
“What’s the surprise?” Apollo asks.
“Before I tell the three of you, I want to know who is going to be the new dad?”
“I am.” Artemis answered.
“Well, you’re not the only one expecting a baby.”
“You’re pregnant?!” Atlas realizes.
“Yep.” She unzipped her winter jacket, revealing a large baby bump. “My baby girl is coming in April.”
“Aww, Patrick going to be a big brother.” Apollo said.
“Congratulations. You too, Uncle Douglas.” Atlas said.
“Thank you. You know, me and Deborah thought that we had to raise our daughter without you guys around. But I’m glad that it’s not the case.”
“Same over here.” Edward said. “Speaking of babies, when is yours coming?”
“May.” Artemis said.
“That means they’re only going to be going a month apart, how cute. I have a feeling they’re going to be great playmates.” Deborah said.
“First Twilight, then Cadence, now Auntie is expecting a baby. I wonder who else is going to be next?” Apollo mumbled.
‘Don’t worry, Titan. You will find out soon enough.’ Atlas thought.
“Artemis, are you going to bring your wife to the states to have the baby?” His mom asks.
This was a question that Artemis wasn’t prepared for. “Honestly, I don’t know. We never have the discussion before. Maybe there’s a chance she might consider it since she always wanted to come to NY after I describe what it’s like here.”
“I’m glad she’s considering it. Since childbirth could go south real fast, and it will be sad if anything happens to her or the baby.”
“Hey triplets, I heard on the Internet that you guys are back in the spotlight. Is that true?” Barlow asks.
“It is. Honestly, I’m not surprised that the media is interested in us again.” Atlas said. “While we were hanging out with her friends earlier, we encountered a few people wishing as well and all that.”
“Are you all talking about my boys newfound fame?” Andrew asks as the walk into the kitchen.
“We are, and from the sound of it, they’re handling it pretty well.” Barlow replied.
“Well, I’m not surprised since they told me this morning that they’ve been through this before. They even got in a few admirers if you know what I mean.”
“Oh really?” Maya said, as she looked at the triplets with a grin on her face. “Is that how you got Twilight and Celestia?”
“Nope, we were friends with them before that little trend happened.” Atlas answered.
“But we have to admit that those few months were very weird and fun at the same time.” Artemis said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if these next few days will be the same as well.”
===•••===
After nightfall came to the city that never sleeps, the party that Stephanie and Andrew have been planning all day was now in full swing.
Friends and family from near and far came over to the Yukon residence to see their lost loss relatives and to have fun.
While most of the guest were eating or watching a basketball game in the family room, Patrick was watching Despicable Me in the living room with his two cousins. They were both black just like him, but that’s where the similarities ended. They have brown hair, just like their mother and the older one wore glasses.
The older cousin is nine-year-old Stefan Anaheim, and his younger brother is four-year-old Barlow Anaheim Jr. But everyone in the family calls him BJ.
“Patrick, would you ride that roller coaster if it existed in real life?” Stefan asked after they watched a roller coaster scene in the movie.
“No.” Patrick said, knowing where this conversation was going.
“Why not?”
“Because that roller coaster is scary looking.”
“Oh, come on, you went on the Cyclone last year with no problem at all. what’s so different about this one?”
“Some of the track goes upside down and you know how I don’t like going upside down.”
“Scaredy-cat.” Stefan teased. His younger cousin didn’t respond.
“Patrick, can you get me another soda, please?”
“Sure.” Patrick grabbed the cup out of his hand and walked away.
As he made his way down the hallway, he accidentally bumped into a stool, which had Artemis’ bag resting on top of it.
The bag tipped over and its contents spilled all over the floor. Immediately, Patrick started to clean up the mess, like the good little boy he is.
When he was almost done, he noticed a shiny gold coin. Patrick picked up the coin and examined it. The coin was the size of a silver dollar coin, but it was light as a nickel.
On one side of the coin has a picture of a weird looking person on it, with the title, ‘United Kingdom of Equestria’ in small letters on the top rim. (The person in question is Nebula.) The other side of the coin has a picture of a building with a large dome. With the title ‘50 bits’ on the bottom rim. (The building is the Senate.)
“Wow.” Patrick mumbled as he looked at the beautiful coin.
After he cleaned up the mess, Patrick went to find his older cousin. Eventually, he found Artemis in the dining room, enjoying his dinner.
“Artemis, can I ask you something?”
“Sure, what is it?” Artemis inquired after he pushed his chair back.
His little cousin showed him the coin he found.
Artemis swore that he had a fucking heart attack in that very moment.
“Where did you find that?” He said, as he tried to be as calm as possible, and failing miserably.
“Your bag. I accidentally tipped it over when I was coming over here. Sorry.”
“It’s all right.”
“Artemis, are you ok?” Maya asked.
“I’m fine, why do you ask?” He replied, feeling himself beginning to sweat.
“Just checking.” Then she noticed the coin in Patrick’s hand. “What is that?” She said with great interest.
“Artemis’ coin.” Patrick said.
Before Artemis can say anything, his cousin handed the coin to his aunt.
“This is nice. Deborah, look at this coin, isn’t it beautiful?” She said, showing the coin to her sister.
“It is. But the person on the front looks weird. Artemis, where did you get this?”
“Uhh.. that’s my wife’s….good luck charm.” He answered. “She told me that her grandma found it a long time ago.”
A part of Deborah didn’t believe her nephew. She wasn’t an expert on coins, but this coin was in too good of a condition for anyone living off the grid could maintain. If anything, the coin look like it was brand new. But she didn’t want to correct her nephew, so she kept her mouth shut.
“What the heck is Equestria?” Maya wondered.
“You mean Equestrian?” Sarah asks.
“No, it’s equestrian but without the N.”
“That sounds like a name of some ancient kingdom or something.” Edward chimed in.
“It does have the title United Kingdom in front of it. So maybe it’s related to Great Britain?”
“I doubt it.”
“Guys, I know my wife’s coin is interesting and all that, but can I have it back?” Artemis asks.
“Oh, sorry.” Maya said as she handed the coin back to Artemis.
“It’s all right, I’ll be right back.” Artemis caught up from his chair and left the dining room.
“Did you notice how on Artemis was acting?” Maya whispered.
“Yeah, I noticed that too. I wonder why he looked like that.”
“Maybe he thought we would lose the coin or something? After all, it does belong to his wife. Possibly a family heirloom.”
“If that’s the case, that is one important heirloom.”
“Agreed.”
===•••===
Artemis was now in his bedroom, walking in circles as his mind was in panic mode and his heart was beating out of his chest.
He couldn’t believe it. All the planning, the stories everything the triplets created could come crashing down tonight.
All thanks to a little coin Artemis forgot to remove from his bag.
He doesn’t blame Patrick for this, not one bit. Any gold coin would attract someone’s attention, especially a six-year-old.
But it doesn’t make his situation any better.
Suddenly, he heard a knock on his door, which made him let in a sudden breath. “Who is it?”
“It’s me, Atlas.”
“Come in.”
“I got your text. Is everything all right?” Atlas said after he closed the door.
“Atlas, I fucked up.”
“No, you didn’t.”
“Yes, I did. That coin is going to make them ask questions, and I’m not ready to tell them the truth yet. Not after the mountain of lies we told them.”
“Dude, we have to tell them the truth one day, it’s inevitable. But thankfully, we’re in the clear for now.” Atlas said.
“What do you mean? That coin contradicts everything we’ve been telling them for the past 24 hours.” Artemis said in confusion.
“I know, but it’s just a coin, not a video or photograph. After you texted me, I decided to go over to the dining room to ask what happened. They told me how Patrick found your coin and thought that it was interesting. They assume you were acting nervous because you didn’t want to lose it since you told him that it was Twilight lucky charm.”
“Wait, so they’re not suspicious of anything?”
“No, they’re not.”
A wave of relief washed over Artemis. “Oh, thank God, I thought we were done for.”
After Artemis was finally able to calm his nerves, he looked at his brother and spoke. “Come on let’s go. They’re going to get suspicious if we stay up here.”
“Yeah, we don’t want that. Do we?” Atlas rhetorically asked.
“No, we don’t.” Artemis said before they left the room.
===•••===
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pswx6OQp1Ks&pp=ygUjb3BwZW5oZWltZXIgdGhlIGRlc3Ryb3llciBvZiB3b3JsZHM%3D
Deborah was looking out a large window in her suite's living room, while drinking a cup of hot chocolate.
Normally, she wouldn’t book an expensive hotel suite. But since she was here for a special occasion, she and her husband decided to splurge a bit.
And it was worth it, thanks to the beautiful view of Lower Manhattan. But in that same view had New York newest addition, the One World Trade Center, which was still under construction.
Before the original twin towers fell, Deborah was just a rookie. Happy that she became an agent just like James Bond. But after, she was assigned to missions that made her counter worst of humanity, mainly foreign and domestic terrorism.
Despite those missions, she never regretted becoming an agent. After all, her career gave her a comfortable life where she never had to worry about money, and she met the love of her life in the Academy.
But her line of work also made her promise herself that she would protect anyone close to her, especially family.
Which is why she is still awake. Ever since she left her sister‘s apartment, her instincts were telling her that something was wrong with Artemis.
The way he reacted when he saw that coin and his fidgeting afterwards raised a few red flags in her head. That behavior wasn’t the look of someone not wanting to lose a lucky charm. That was the look of dread.
Which made her mind wander to so many horrifying scenarios.
Were they being trafficked? Did someone find them and decide to hold them captive for all this time?
The thought of her nephews, who she sees as her sons, being put through a nightmare like that made her blood boil. She was also starting to question if any of the stories they told her were even true.
If they really came from Canada, that means they would had to cross the US-Canadian border. If they did, the border patrol would’ve alerted local authorities contacted their family. In her experience, it was really suspicious that no such thing had happened.
And what did the coin represent?
It didn’t matter now; she knew what she had to do. If anyone can help her nephews, it was her and Douglas.
After she finished her hot chocolate, she washed the cup, put it away and went to bed. Trying her best to get a full night’s rest.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
January 26 2012 A.D.
Douglas opened his tired eyes and let out a yawn. Try his best not to wake up his wife.
Around this time, he would be either going to work or taking his son to school. Depending on what day it was. But today is not an ordinary day.
After using the restroom as quietly as possible, Douglas left the bedroom and walked over to the to the window in the living room. As expected, it was another cold day in New York.
Douglas then went over to his son’s room to check on him. He open the door and saw that Patrick was wide awake, watching the Octonauts.
“Good morning, son.” He greeted.
“Good morning, dad.”
“How long have you been up?” Douglas asks.
Patrick looked up at the analog clock on the wall and said. “I woke up at seven, I think.”
“Since you’re up, do you want to come with me and have some breakfast?”
“Can I stay in my pajamas?”
“Of course. I’m going to be doing the same thing. Just wear a jacket.”
“Ok.” Patrick said before the jump from his bed and got his winter coat from the closet. “Is mom coming with us?”
“No, she still asleep.” Douglas answered.
“What?” Patrick said shock and disappointment. “But mom said she would join us.”
Douglas got down on one knee. “I know she promised. But we were all over the place yesterday and stayed up really late. So how about we let her sleep in?”
Patrick understood what his dad was saying. “All right.”
“So, what should we get for mom?” Douglas an after getting back up.
“How about we get her some waffles?”
“That sounds good. How about we get her some sausage or bacon with the waffles?”
“Why not both?”
“You know what? That’s a good idea. Your mom is going to love that.” This made his son smile.
After getting his wallet and the room key, Douglas and Patrick left the hotel suite.
===•••===
After having a nice breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, Douglas and Patrick came back to their hotel suite and freshen up.
After that, they basically did nothing but watch TV and enjoyed their morning. As Douglas was channel surfing, Deborah finally came out of their bedroom.
“Morning, Debbie.” Douglas said before he saw how red her eyes were.
“Good morning.” She said, rubbing her eyes.
“Did you sleep well?”
“Sort of, I didn’t fall asleep until around 2 AM. That’s all.”
“2 AM? That’s weird, usually you’re out like a light anytime a pillow touches your head.” Then he realized what was going on. “Ok, what’s wrong?”
“Nothing.” She answered, as she sat down.
“Really? You don’t stay up late because of nothing. Don’t say everything is all right because you’re a terrible liar.”
Deborah sighed. “Fine you got me. I was up late because I couldn’t stop thinking about the triplets.”
“What about them?” Douglas asks.
“Where to begin? Remember when I told you about the coin Patrick found, and how Artemis reacted?”
“Yeah.”
“Well to me, the way Artemis reacted look like he saw a ghost or something. When he told me and the other people at the table, how his wife got the coin, I didn’t believe it. Because it looked too good of a condition to be that old. It almost looked brand new. Realizing this made me think.”
“About what?” He asked, wondering where this conversation was going.
“Everything! The stories they told us, the people they met, the village they were living in and how they got back to us. I feel horrible for saying this, but I think everything they were telling us is a lie.”
“Now that’s a bit far-fetched. Deborah, you know them way longer than I have, and we both know that they’re good honest kids. They wouldn’t tell lies to us for no reason.”
“I know, but I’ve been noticing red flags all over the place. The biggest one is that no one from the US or Canadian border patrol contacted our family or local authorities that the triplets were trying to cross the border. You and I both know that there is no way you can miss that massive gray truck they were in.”
“That’s really concerning since they are pretty well-known.” Douglas said.
“I know. Another red flag is their wardrobe. When we were by them after arriving at JFK, they were wearing the same clothes that they took on the trip to Niagara Falls. If they were really in the wilderness for three years, they should be in taters, not in good condition. Same thing with all their other possessions, like their phones, shoes and bags.” She explained.
“Ok, so if everything they told us was a lie, then where were they for the past three years?”
“I have a theory that they were found by some horrible people, and they were held captive or being traffic for all this time. Maybe the triplets escaped their captors, and they are so traumatized or embarrassed by it that they can’t bring themselves to tell us. Possibility their wives and friends are in the same predicament.”
Deborah balled her fists. “If I wasn’t five months pregnant, I would’ve been in Canada by now and hunting every single one of those bastards down.”
“Before you begin to prepare for your murder spree, we need to see if what you’re suspecting is true. But how are we going to do that?”
“Simple, we’ll ask them. After all, we are going to be with them all day.” Deborah answered.
“You really think that would work?”
“Yeah, it’s no different from our daily lives as agents. Eventually, one of them will crack.” She then leans back on the couch. “I really hope that my suspicions are incorrect, and this is me having one of my paranoid episodes again.”
“You’re not paranoid, you’re just a bit overprotective.”
She looked at her husband and said. “Oh really? You forgot about how I acted when Patrick was only a few months old?”
“You were just doing what you thought was best for him. Anyone that experienced all the stuff you did would’ve done the same thing.” Douglas reassured her. “How about you give your mind a break and have some breakfast. Me and Patrick got you a to go box.”
“What did you two get me?”
“Waffles with sausage and bacon. It’s in the microwave waiting for you.”
“Aww, you guys spoil me. Thanks.” She said, leaning on her husband.
“You’re welcome.” He said as she got up and went to the kitchen.
After she was out of sight, he began thinking of what she just told him. If he has to be honest, it’s scared him that the triplets might be going through something horrible like human trafficking. If it was true, Douglas didn’t know what he would do with himself.
“God, please don’t let that be the case.” He said quietly.
===•••===
Before the Anaheim-Lewis family knew it. It was time for them to meet with the rest of their family.
After they got ready for their day out, they left their hotel and walked to the nearest Subway station. When the family made it to the Subway platform they only had to wait for a little while before the train arrive. Luckily, the station wasn’t that crowded, so they were able to find seats with no problem.
Eight minutes later, the Subway train arrived at Rockefeller Center Station. After they left the station, they entered Rockefeller Center made their way to the ice rink waiting area. Where the rest of their extended family were waiting for them.
“Good morning, everyone.” Deborah greeted.
“Morning, Auntie.” The triplets replied.
“Good morning, Deborah, morning Douglas. We’re so glad that the three of you came.” Stephanie said.
“We wouldn’t miss to stay out for the world. Where is Edward and Sarah?”
“They’re at their apartment playing cards with a few friends because to them it’s way too cold to go out.” Amelia said. “I don’t blame them, it’s bone chilling out there.”
“So how come you’re not playing cards with them in their warm apartment?” Douglas asks.
“As much as I love to beat their asses in a game of cards, I came to NY for a reason. Besides, I can do that while we watch the triplets’ interview.”
“Interview? What do you mean?” Douglas asks.
“Stephanie, didn’t you tell them the news?” Maya said.
“Oh shoot, I am so sorry. I forgot to tell you all.”
“Tell us what?” Patrick ask.
Atlas put on his ice skates before speaking. “This morning, we got invited to be interviewed on NBC nightly news!”
“Wait! The same new show that has Lester Holt as its host?” Douglas asks.
“That’s the one.” Apollo said excitedly.
“How did you get invited on to the show?” Deborah asks.
“One of the show’s employees came to our apartment. We said yes almost immediately.”
“Ok, and when is the interview happening?”
“Monday at 6 PM.” Artemis answered.
“Congratulations boys, you three must be so excited.” Douglas said.
“They are. Tomorrow, we plan on getting these lads ready for their big moment. Haircut, new fancy outfit. Everything.” Andrew said.
“Are we going on the show?” Patrick asked.
“We are, but we’re only gonna be in backstage. We’re not going to be on tv.” Stephanie explained.
“Aww.” He said disappointment.
“I’m sure the backstage will have a lot of interesting stuff for you to see.”
“Ok.”
“I’m going to rent us some ice skates. I’ll be right back.” Douglas said before walking away.
After everyone put on their skates, they all went out on the ice rink. While Amelia stayed in the warm waiting area.
The entire family was having a blast. Patrick, Stefan and BJ were having fun racing each other while the rest of the family was just content with gliding on the ice.
Deborah was also having a nice time skating, remembering the fun times she had here. She would’ve done some ice tricks like she did anytime she skated. But decided not to since she is five months pregnant.
When she and her husband were on their third lap, she couldn’t help but overhear a conversation the triplets were having with Barlow.
“So, are you guys planning to go back to college?”
“Not really.” Apollo said.
“I don’t think so.” Atlas answered.
“Not anytime soon.” Artemis replied.
“What why?” Barlow said in shock.
“Don’t get us wrong, it would be nice to get our diplomas. But we were able to build ourselves a life back in the villages without them, and we’re satisfied with that. Plus, I don’t want to be away from my wife long period of time, especially with the kid on the way.” Artemis said.
“I get where you’re coming, from believe me I do. But if you don’t have an education, you won’t go far in life. Maybe you can take online classes. The old college started offering them a year back.”
“But that means we have to stay in NYC for that since the villages don’t have electricity.” Atlas pointed out.
After running out of ideas, Barlow decided to concede. “All right, I’ll drop it. You boys are adults now and you control your own fate. But if I was you, I would get my education ASAP.”
While they change the subject, Deborah was shocked. The three most ambitious boy she has ever met decided not to work towards their dream careers. She didn’t know what to think. It was so out of character for them.
“Dougie, did you hear all that?” She said.
“Yeah, I did. I can’t believe they actually said that. Why would they not want to pursue their dreams?”
“I don’t know, but I have a feeling that it’s not because of their wives or that village.”
“So, what should we do?” He asked.
“You keep on skating for now while I ask one of the brothers when I have the chance. Got it?” Deborah said.
“Loud and clear.”
“Good.”
Her chance came sooner than expected when she saw Apollo skate away from the rest of the group and head back inside of the waiting area.
A minute later, she followed suit. After she got off the ice, Deborah walked over and sat next to her nephew.
“Oh, hey Auntie, didn’t expect you to be in here.”
“Well, my little girl kicks me after I spend a certain amount of time exercising. So, I take a break until she stops.” She said, as she rubbed her large baby bump. “I overheard what you and your brother said to your uncle earlier. Was that all true?”
“Yeah, it was. When we were coming down to the big apple, we were trying to figure out how we would tell you all. I’m guessing your surprise by this?”
“I am, Douglas was too. You really love it out there, do you?”
“I do. It’s a beautiful place with nice people and a lot of good memories. It can take anyone’s breath away.”
“That sounds nice. Speaking of driving down to the big apple, where did you cross the border from Canada to America?” Deborah asked.
“Niagara Falls.”
Apollo didn’t know it, but he just handed a smoking gun to his aunt.
“That’s odd. The last time I checked all of the bridges that crosses the Niagara River were permanently shut down. The only way to cross is by plane or ferry via the Great Lakes. If you did take the ferry, the authorities would’ve been alerted, and your parents would’ve been called.” She said as Apollo’s blood ran cold.
She scooted closer to him and said. “Apollo, you could be honest with me, were any of the stories you and your brothers told were true at all?”
‘How? I thought we had everything covered!’ He thought. “Yes, all of the stories we’ve been telling you are true. What would make you think otherwise?”
“I noticed some things that I could not ignore. Whatever is going on with you and your siblings, please tell me so we can contact the proper authorities. You three are going to be ok, I promise.” She said sincerely.
“Auntie, I appreciate your concern. But you have nothing to worry about. This is just all a big misunderstanding.” Apollo said, trying to be as cool as a cucumber, but the nervousness in his voice said otherwise.
That confirmed it for her.
“I’m going to go back on the ice, see you there.”
After he left, all Deborah could feel was sadness. She couldn’t believe it. Her suspicions were correct.
===•••===
Apollo could his heart trying to break out of his chest as he skated on the ice.
He only arrived back home two days ago and already one of his family members was onto him and his brothers. And of course, it had to be one of the federal agents.
Even though she didn’t suspect anything like magic or Equestria, it was still a big problem.
“Pluto, Jupiter, we have a problem.” Apollo said, skating right next to them.
From the tone of his voice, the military engineer and the architect knew that their sibling was being serious. “What is it?”
After making sure that there were no family members nearby Apollo said. “Auntie Deborah is onto us.”
“…...What?” Artemis said.
“What do you mean by that?” Atlas asks.
“When I went to sidelines to take a little break, Auntie Deborah sat next to me, and we started having little conversation. She then asks where in the northern border we entered the US from, I said the Niagara Falls. She told me that that was impossible because all the bridges that crossed the Niagara River were shut down permanently. Unless we took a ferry, which we didn’t.” Apollo explained.
“Wait, I thought people were banned from going near Niagara Falls, not the entire river itself.” Artemis said.
“That’s what I thought too. Anyway, she told me that if we did cross the border, the authorities would’ve been alerted, and our family would’ve been told that we were still alive.”
“So, what you’re telling us is that we were screwed the moment we set foot in the US?” Atlas said.
“When you look at it from that point of view, yes, yes we were.”
“So, what should we do?” Artemis asks.
“How about we tell them when we get home?”
Artemis look at his brother like he grew two heads. “Are you crazy?”
“I know it’s a bit sudden, but we have to tell them eventually. We can’t lying to them forever.”
“I know that, but if we do it too soon, it’ll blow up in our faces. Not only that, how would they react when we showed them what are wives and fiancé look like. I wouldn’t be surprised if they would be disappointed at for even falling in love with them. Let alone starting a family with them.” Artemis said. “We were just reunited with them. I am not ready for that scenario to happen just yet.”
“I don’t think that would ever happen. Our family always told us growing up that they will love and support us, no matter what.” Atlas stated.
“Yeah, if any of us was gay. Not marrying mythical creatures that humanity thought was a myth for hundreds of thousands of years. Tell them the truth now is dumber than lighting a match in a fireworks factory. No offense.”
“None taken.”
“Instead of telling our family the truth tonight, how about we tell them on Saturday. That gives us two days. Enough time for us to figure out how to approach the subject and mentally preparing ourselves for the fallout.” Apollo suggested.
“That’s not a bad plan.” Artemis said.
“I don’t care what we do as long as we tell them.” Atlas stated.
“Ok, we will tell them on Saturday. For now, let’s just enjoy the rest of our day.” Apollo said.
“Hey triplets, do y’all want to race with me and your father?” Maya asked.
The Brothers looked at each other and coming to an agreement. “Ok.” They said before skating over to them.
===•••===
After spending two hours skating at Rockefeller Center, it was time for the Yukon and Anaheim families to leave.
While they were waiting for the subway train to arrive, Maya walked over to Douglas and ask.
“I do.” He said before beginning to whisper. “Ever since the party last night, Deborah has been suspecting that the triplets weren’t being 100% honest with us.”
“Why?” She whispered.
“Because she noticed some things that didn’t make sense.”
“Like what?”
“Like how Artemis reacted to that coin, to them wearing the same clothes from three years ago, that should be in tatters if they were living in the wilderness. And the fact that they supposedly cross the border, even though that the border patrol never contacted Andrew or Stephanie that their sons were alive.” Douglas explained.
“That is strange. Where did they enter the US from anyway?”
“Apollo told her that they drove over the border in Niagara Falls.”
“That’s impossible.”
“I know.”
“So, if they weren’t in the wilderness for three years where were they for all this time?” Maya asks.
“We don’t know, but Deborah believes that they encountered some horrible people but recently escaped. And the loved ones that they met over the years are in the same predicament.”
“Jesus that is horrible. Should we tell Stephanie and Andrew this?”
“Until we have enough evidence and one of the triplets are ready to talk, we shouldn’t tell them anything. I don’t want them to be paranoid over nothing.” Douglas said.
“All right. Is there anything to help?”
“Just be there for the triplets.”
“You know I always do that.”
“Exactly.” Douglas said before the train finally arrived.
===•••===
Central Park, one of the most famous places in the city. A peaceful place right in the middle of America’s largest metropolis.
The Yukon and Anaheim families were walking through this winter wonderland, looking for a nice spot for themselves.
Eventually, they found a nice area with a café nearby. And the best part was that it wasn’t as crowded as other areas in the park. Most of the family members opted to play in the snow, while others like Amelia and Deborah decide to relax on one of the park benches.
The triplets were making snow angels, when they were hit by a few snowballs.
They looked to their right to see their little cousins trying to hide behind a large out tree.
“Are you guys thinking what I’m thinking?” Artemis asks.
“Yep.” Atlas and Apollo answered before all three of them started making their own snowballs.
They waited a little bit before Patrick peered from behind the tree. That’s when Apollo threw a snowball. Hitting him right in the face. After that, Stefan and BJ made a run for it. Laughing and screaming as they did so.
Apollo and Artemis chased after them while Atlas dealt with Patrick.
For the next few minutes, they chased after their younger cousins all over the place. Some of the snowballs that they threw at each other miss their targets and hit other family members. Which made them join in the fight as well.
Eventually, Apollo and Artemis were able to pummel the cousins with a bunch of snowballs.
“OK, ok we give up.” Stefan laughed.
“Are you sure? Because we can do this all day.” Artemis said.
“We are sure.” BJ answered.
They both helped their cousins up. “You guys got us good.”
“What can I say. You guys were easy targets.” Stefan said.
“Where is Patrick?” BJ asks.
“He’s in the middle of the fight.” Artemis said as he watched his cousin throw snowballs at anything that moved. “Anyone up for round two?”
“I am!” BJ said.
Stefan said nothing as he threw a snowball in Artemis’ face.
“I’ll take that as a yes.” Artemis said before all hell broke loose.
===•••===
Atlas was sitting on one of the park benches, taking a break from all the fun. Watching the snowball fight that his family and a few strangers were participating in.
“Hey Atlas. How come you’re here not over there?” Douglas said as he sat down right next to his nephew, with a cup coffee in hand.
“I’m just taking a little break.” Atlas answered. “I’m going to join the game in a few minutes.”
After a few moments of silence, Douglas turns to Atlas and ask. “If you don’t mind me asking, are you ok?”
‘I knew he was going to ask that.’ Atlas thought. “I’m doing fine, why do you ask?”
“Because your aunt and I are worried about y’all and are afraid that that you are not truthful with us. And I think I know why.”
Atlas remain calm. Knowing that his uncle doesn’t know anything about where he was for the past three years.
“You three are afraid that we are not going to take you seriously or be disappointed. If you feel like that, I promise that’s not going to happen. Do you understand?”
“I understand. But you don’t have to worry about anything, we’re fine. I’m going back in the fight.” Atlas said before getting up from the seat and walking away.
“Have fun.”
Moments later, Deborah came over and said down next to Douglas. “Did he tell you anything?”
“Nothing but lies.” He answered.
“Dammit, I thought he would spill the beans for sure. Should we just confront them and just demand that they tell us the truth?”
“Nah, give them time. Like you said, once them should crack. All we have to do is be patient.”
Deborah rests her head on her husband shoulder.
“Me too, honey. Me too.”
===•••===
“Well, that was fun.” Amelia said as she and the rest of her family were walking out of Central Park. “Where are we going next?”
“Coney Island!” Patrick said.
“Sorry bud, we can’t go there. It’s closed.” Barlow chimed in.
“What why?”
“Because of all the snow.”
“Aw man. I just want ride on one ride.”
“Maybe next time Pat.” Andrew patted him on the head.
It was at this moment, when Artemis had an idea.
“Where?” Andrew ask.
“Toys “R” Us.”
“Oh God, no.” Maya and Deborah said at the same time.
“Toys “R” Us! Toys “R” Us!” Patrick, BJ and Stefan chanted in unison.
“Why should we go to Toys “R” Us?” Maya ask.
“Because it has a Ferris wheel and it would be a nice way to end our day out.”
“Artemis that’s a nice idea but you know how your little cousins are going to act. They would want us to buy everything in that store.” Deborah said.
“Especially BJ.” Maya added.
“No, I won’t.” BJ said.
“Instead of getting toys for them, how about we just get them candy?” Apollo suggested. “If that place still sells candy that is.”
“Toys “R” Us still sells candy.” Barlow said.
“Hmm, a payday bar sounds good right about now.”
“I want to go on the Ferris wheel.” Said Apollo.
“Me too.” Artemis said.
“We can go to Toys “R” Us, as long the three of you promised to behave yourselves.” Stephanie said to her a little nephews.
“We promise.”
===•••===
After they left Times Square 42 Street station and cross the crossroads of the world, they finally arrived at the flagship store of Toys “R” Us.
Unlike other Toys “R” Us establishments, this one is huge. Three stories of everything a kid could want. Toys, video games, candy, the latest technology, anything you can think of this store had it. And right in the middle, is a three-story tall Ferris wheel with the Toys “R” Us logo in its center.
“Thank God, we’re out of the cold.” Amelia said.
“Wow, this place hasn’t changed a bit.” Atlas said as he looked around the store.
"With a lot more technology." Apollo said.
“Have fun kids, we will be here waiting for you.” Stephanie said before she felt something tug on her winter jacket. She looked down and saw Barlow Junior looking up at her.
“Can you come with us?”
“BJ, I would love to, but I don’t like heights. How about you ask your uncles or other aunt?”
“But I want you to come.” He said with pleading eyes.
“Come on mom, join us. Atlas is coming along for the ride too.” Artemis said.
“Atlas, you’re going with them?” Stephanie asked.
“The Ferris wheel is not that bad, unlike the other rides that this daredevil somehow convinced me to go on.” Atlas pointed his thumb at Apollo.
Stephanie looked up at the Ferris wheel. Her son was right. It wasn’t as intimidating as the ones in amusement parks, but it was still 3 stories tall. But she never let her nephews down and today she wasn’t going to break her perfect auntie record.
“Ok, I’ll go.”
“Yay.” BJ cheered.
“Have fun.” Deborah teased.
===•••===
After the fun Ferris wheel ride was over, Stephanie, the triplets and nephews met up with the rest of their family.
“Hey everyone, how was the Ferris wheel?” Andrew asks.
“It was a lot of fun.” Patrick said with BJ nodding in agreement.
“We had a nice time.” Atlas said.
“That’s good to hear. What about you, Stephanie?”
“It was fun, a bit terrifying, but fun.” She said with a bit of a nervous tone.
“Did anything interesting happened?” Barlow asks.
“Not that much happened, besides mom freaking out anytime the carriage swung a little bit.”
“Well, I’m glad all of you had fun. Now, let’s go and buy some candy already.” Amelia said.
“Maybe I could buy a Snickers or a Twix.” Stephanie said to herself. “You know what? I’ll just buy both.”
===•••===
After they left Toys “R” Us, they went over to Stephanie and Andrew‘s apartment to spend more time together as a family and have a nice dinner.
After that, they decided to call it a night and went their separate ways. Not knowing that they were storm clouds on the horizon.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
January 27 2012 A.D
It is a cold, sunny day in New York City. And right now, Artemis is in his bedroom combing his hair while looking at himself in the mirror.
Today, Artemis and his family are going to the barbershop and Macy’s to get ready for their big interview on Monday. Afterwards, they are heading over to Hard Rock Cafe to have dinner with some of his relatives.
“Artemis hurry up, we’re about to go soon!” Apollo yelled.
“I’m coming!” He yelled before putting the comb down and grabbing his satchel bag.
Before Artemis left his room, he looked at his dresser where his walkie-talkie was. Ever since they came to New York, the triplets had not taken the small device anywhere with them. Now that Artemis thought about it, was pretty stupid on their part.
The battle that is going to change humanity forever, could happen at any second. And if they don’t have their walkie-talkie with them, they can’t contact Equestria and their allies right away.
Then again the battle might happen days or even weeks from now and the walkie-talkie would be just extra weight for him to carry.
After thinking it over for a moment, Artemis decided to levitate the walkie-talkie with his magic and placed it in his bag before leaving the room.
“Oh there you are. I thought I had to come and get you.” Apollo said.
“Sorry, I was deciding if I should bring this with me.” He opened his satchel, revealing the small device in his bag.
“Oh. Do you think we need to bring that with us?”
“Not really, but it wouldn’t hurt if I did. Better safe than sorry.” Artemis answered as they walked down the stairs.
“Hopefully, it’ll be nothing more than a waste of space in your bag.” Apollo stated.
“Me too.”
After they got into their parents’ vehicle, their mother put the SUV in gear and drove away.
===•••===
It didn’t take long for them to drive over to Fort Green, a neighborhood north of Prospect Heights.
After Stephanie found a parking space, they walk down the street and entered to the barbershop. A small bell could be heard as they opened the door.
This establishment is like any other barbershop that you’re find anywhere in NYC. There is posters on the wall, barbers are having conversations with their customers and there is a guy selling random things to people.
One of the barbers is a broad black man with black hair and beard, cleaning one of his hair clippers. His name is Martin Anderson, the owner of the barbershop and Tyrone‘s dad.
The barber looked at the door for a second before his eyes widen. “Jesus Christ. Triplets, is that you?”
“It sure is, Mr. Anderson.” Artemis greeted.
“Well, it’s good to see you all again.” He said before putting his clippers down and walk over to them. “I knew you were coming, but seeing y’all in person is still surprising.”
“Everyone has been feeling that way for the past few days. You should’ve seen Deborah’s reaction when she saw Apollo at JFK.” Stephanie said. “She nearly suffocated him.”
“I don’t blame her. It's not every day when three missing family members come back to us. Now, Atlas you’re with me. Artemis, Apollo you will be with my two new barbers. Well, they’re not really ‘new’, they been with me for a year now.” Martin said as he introduced the triplets to his employees.
“Artemis, this is Pablo.”
“What’s up?” The Puerto Rican man greeted.
“Apollo, this is Rick.”
“Nice to meet ya.” The white man said, as he shook Apollo‘s hand.
“Nice to meet you too.”
“Since you all are now acquainted, I’ll take my customer to my chair. Take good care of them.”
“You got it, boss.” Pablo said.
After Atlas sat down in the barber chair, Martin looked at Atlas in the mirror and ask. “So, what do you want to get today?”
“A shape up and a trim.”
“You got it.” Martin smiled.
===•••===
“What do you think?” Martin said after he turned off the hairdryer and turned the barber chair around.
Atlas whistled when he saw himself in the mirror.
Don’t get him wrong, pony hairstylists were good, but not as skilled as a New York barber.
“I like it.”
“I’m happy you like it.” Martin said as Atlas got up from his chair. After he put a $20 bill in the barber’s tip jar, Atlas went over to his parents.
“Wow, looking good, Atlas. How does it feel to finally have a haircut after all these years?”
“Honestly, I’m glad I finally got one.” Atlas said before sitting next to his parents.
“That’s good to hear.” Stephanie said.
After Artemis and Apollo, we’re done with their haircuts, they said goodbye to the barbers before leaving the establishment.
But little did they know that a mysterious figure was watching them from a far in a nearby alleyway.
“Supreme Commander, I have spotted them.” He said into his radio.
An old but authoritative voice came from the device. “Good work, Sergeant. You found them faster than I thought.”
“Thank you, sir. Should I go and kill them now?” The figure ask.
“NO! I know you’re eager to do your duty and have your revenge, young one. But do not engage. The great trial will commence very soon. Be patient.”
“But sir, the triplets are sitting ducks. They have no guards with them and it doesn’t look like they have any weapons on them.”
“Just because they are defenseless, doesn’t mean you should blow your cover and try to eliminate even one of them. Our mission is not only to eliminate the Royal Three, but also conquer this nation and others on this continent. One slip up, and we might wake up the giant from its slumber too soon.”
The sergeant rolled his eyes. “In all due respect, sir. You really think that this ‘United States’ is the most powerful nation this world has to offer? I only been here for a few hours, and I already can tell this place is not a warrior society. All I have scene is decadences and no discipline.”
“Don’t judge a book by its cover, Sergeant. That’s how wars are lost.” The voice said solemnly before it went back to its normal tone. “Now, continue monitoring the triplets until your comrades are in position. Do you understand?”
“Yes, Supreme Commander Karbyshev.”
“Good. All hail the Empire, long live the Black League.”
“All hail the Empire, long live the Black League.”
===•••===
Yukon family are shopping in Macy’s looking for nice outfits for the triplets to wear on their special day.
While they were browsing through the clothing section, the family went their separate ways. Atlas was with his mom while his father and siblings were nowhere to be found.
“How about this shirt?” Stephanie said she held up a white shirt with long sleeves and buttons down the middle.
“Look nice, better than the other options. But I feel like it’s missing something.” He said in thought.
“Like what, a tie?”
“No, not exactly.” Her son said before he realize what the shirt needed. “I got it. A tuxedo would be perfect with this.”
This surprised Stephanie. “A tuxedo? Don’t you think that’s a bit much?”
“Yeah, but I’m going to be interviewed on national television. It doesn’t hurt to look presentable.”
“Ok, you’re the boss. Do you need my help to pick out a tux?”
“No thanks, I got it.” Atlas said before walking away.
A few minutes later, Atlas came back. “Hey mom, what do you think of this one?”
Stephanie turn to see that her son is holding a suit that someone would wear if they were meeting the queen of England.
“Wow, this is beautiful. Since when you developed good taste in fancy clothing?” She said, feeling the soft fabric.
“I don’t know, I just saw it and liked it.” He answered.
“Well, in that case, we found what we were looking for. Let’s just hope that everyone else did as well.” Stephanie said as she and her son went to the nearest checkout counter.
After Atlas was done purchasing his outfit, he and his mom waited at the stores exit until the rest of our family came.
“So did you find everything you wanted?” Stephanie asked her sons.
“We did. Me and Apollo got suits and a bottle of cologne.” Artemis said.
“You got suits too? I thought the two of you would be going for something that is more business casual.”
“And be undressed in front of America? No way Jose.” Apollo said.
“They got fancy ones at that. Apollo’s suit has a pocket square.” Andrew chimed in. “Did Atlas get one?”
“He did, it looks like he’s about to visit European royalty.” Stephanie said.
“Oh, come on mom it’s not that fancy.” Atlas said.
“Yes, it is. Not that I’m complaining.” She said before they left the store.
“Who made them like this?” Andrew ask.
“I don’t know, but whoever did I want hug them.”
“Me too.”
===•••===
After they got home and put their new outfits away, the triplets and their parents left their home once again, and took the subway all the way to Times Square.
As they were leaving the station, Stephanie received a text from her sister-in-law. “Oh no.”
“What is it?” Andrew ask.
“Maya just texted me that they’re stuck in heavy traffic near the entrance of the Brooklyn Bridge and might arrive late.”
“Well, that’s unfortunate.”
“I would be surprised if that traffic jam was caused by a stupid driver getting into an accident.” Atlas said.
“You and me both.” His mom said in agreement.
While they were making their way towards Hard Rock Cafe, Apollo notice an Asian man wearing a jet black combat uniform standing near the middle of Times Square.
At first, Apollo thought it was just another person with a unique sense of fashion sense until he noticed the design of the flag on his right arm.
The flag is black with a horizontal gold stripe and an outline of a white pentagon in the center. Inside of that pentagon is an emblem of a certain xenophobic empire. Not only that, Apollo saw that he wasn’t alone at least five other individuals were wearing the same thing.
“Oh my God.” He said before getting Artemis attention.
“What is it?”
“Keep your voice down. Look.” Apollo whispered, pointing at the guy.
“It’s just a guy wearing-“ Then he noticed the flag on the man’s arm. “We are going to fight them of all people?”
“It looks like it.” Apollo whispered.
“Goddamnit.” He said quietly before he walked over to Atlas and said. “Atlas, I think I know who we’re going to be fighting.”
“Who?”
“The black League. Apollo spotted a few of their members in this area.”
“The elite paramilitary group?”
“Yes, them. We need to get our parents out of here before they become trigger happy.” Artemis answered.
“OK. Apollo, keep an eye on them.”
“On it.”
After that, Atlas walked in front of his parents.
“You want to have a stroll in the cold?”
“Yeah, it’s a beautiful day today and it’s way warmer than yesterday. Plus, you said that Auntie Maya is not going to be here for a while, so let’s make the most of it.” He smiled.
“Do your siblings want to go on this little walk of yours?” Stephanie ask.
“Of course we do.” Artemis chimed in.
“Ok, if you say so.” They were about to continue walking, but once again, their son blocked their path.
“I was thinking we turn around and go the other way.”
“We just came from that direction. You know what, never mind. It’s your day.” Andrew said before they turned around and began their stroll.
As they walked, the Apollo kept his eyes on the soldiers while Atlas and Artemis made sure that their parents were distracted.
When they were almost outside of Times Square, they felt relieved knowing that their parents would be out of the line of fire pretty soon.
That was until Apollo spotted a white man wearing the same uniform. Standing across the street while holding a small radio in his hand.
But unlike like his comrades, he was staring right at the triplets. His eyes did not look away from them for a single moment. He said something to his radio before he put it back on his belt and smiled.
Then, Apollo saw that three soldiers were walking towards him and his family.
It was at this moment the changeling dropped his disguise, ran across the street. “THIS IS FOR MY DAD, YOU FUCKING BASTARDS!” He yelled before shooting a beam of magic at them with his comrades following suit.
“GET DOWN!” Apollo yelled before he conjured up a shield bubble, just in time.
*KABOOM.*
The explosion heard around the world, not only started the battle of Times Square, but also an uncertain future for humanity.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
The Battle of Times Square part two.
“Oh my God.” Atlas said as he looked through his binoculars. “I knew that the Federation was going to send a ship or two to assist us, but they never said they were going to send THAT vessel.”
“No wonder the changelings ships are not paying attention to us.” Luna said.
The reason why both of them were shocked, it’s because the ship that was sailing into New York Harbor at a speed of 23 knots is no ordinary naval vessel.
This ship is huge, dwarfing the mighty Yamato by 20 feet in length. This behemoth is armed to the teeth equipped with the most advanced weapons ever to be made on Equis.
It has five large turrets, three in the bow, two in the Stern, each turret has four guns each. On the bow and the midship are where the torpedo tubes are located. Allowing it to shoot torpedoes from its sides and bow. Last, but not least, this ship is protected by a bunch of anti-aircraft and secondary guns.
This naval vessel is the symbol of the River federation’s naval power, feared by sailors of enemy nations all over Equis. Which is why the River Federation built seven more just like him.
His name is the RNS Sovereign, the king of the waves.
(RNS stands for, River Naval Ship.)
The sea pony in charge of this mighty vessel, is a dark gray sea pony stallion in his early 40s with a blonde mane and tail. His name is Admiral Mako Typhoon. He’s been with the Sovereign for over 12 years now.
(Translator: ON)
“Admiral, we have a clear view of the enemy ships, should we engage with them?” Said a young black sea pony name, Neil
“Negative, Lieutenant Commander. We won’t engage until the rest of our task force arrive. Until then, make sure that the guns are primed and ready.”
“Yes, sir.”
After the Sovereign and the US warships passed Staten Island, two portals opened up. Coming out of Orion‘s passage was two ships, a destroyer and a heavy cruiser. The destroyer is named the RNS Lillypad and the heavy cruiser is called the RNS Kai Tak.
After the portals closed, the three missile cruisers and missile destroyer aimed their guns at them.
“Oh no.” Mako said before picking up the radio receiver.
(Translator: Off.)
“Captain Adams, do not engage, those ships are with me.”
“Are you sure, admiral?” Adam ask.
“Positive. If not, they wouldn’t have appeared on our navigation system.”
“All right, we’ll stand down. Thanks for letting us know.” Adam said before signing off and his ships turned their guns away from the vessels.
(Translator:On)
“That was a close one.” Shogun sighed before he put the receiver down.
Then he noticed that there was a transmission call on his screen. He pressed the accept button and two individuals appeared on a split screen.
The sea pony mare on the left has pink fur and a blue mane and the one on the right is yellow with a green mane.
Their names are Captain Maroon, and Captain Leo.
“Captains, you’re late. Care to explain yourselves?”
“Sorry, Admiral.” Leo said. “Our base was attacked by changeling aircraft an hour after you left. We weren’t allowed to depart until the navel base was finally safe again. We lost two ships.”
“What?! How were they able to fly their jets into our airspace?”
“Speed. It’s really hard to shoot something down that can break the sound barrier. It was theorized that those jets took off a few hours before they declared war. Those equestrian made jets are no joke.” Maroon stated.
“Well, thank goodness that you and your shipmates weren’t one of the casualties.” Mako said.
“I’m guessing that these ships belong to the US?”
“That is correct. They are part of the US northeastern fleet. The rest of them should be here soon.”
“OK, so what’s the plan?” Maroon ask.
“We will spread out so they wouldn’t destroy us in one shot. After this we will make them pay for everything, they have done to us. While the American ships will be supporting us by launching their missiles at the changelings. If they need any help, don’t hesitate to do so.” Mako explained.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9au0yfVdt7o&pp=ygUTc2FiYXRvbiBkcmVhZG5vdWdodA%3D%3D
“Admiral, the Ashton is sailing right towards us, at a speed of 27 knots!” One of Mako’s subordinates said.
“It looks like it showtime.” The admiral looked back at his screen and said. “Remember, be careful.”
The captains nodded before ending the call.
A few moments later, the three federation ships starts to sail away from each other. The USS Gettysburg, Vicksburg, Mcfaul, and last, but not least, the USS Benfold did the same.
“Lieutenant Commander Neal, aim turret one and two at the Ashton. Do not shoot until I say so.” Mako commanded.
“Yes, sir.” Neil said before aiming the large caliber guns right at the changeling cruiser.
Despite having one of the most feared vessels on Equis aiming its guns at it, ICS Ashton did not slow down. The Ashton turned right and aimed its two front turrets right at the USS Benfold.
‘Do they have a death wish or something?’ Mako wondered in thought before yelling. “Fire!”
Neil pressed a red button on his screen, firing eight high explosives round right at the Ashton port side. Hitting it super structure and one of its front turrets.
While the two mighty warships were having a violent shootout, the Bedfold launched one of its missiles right at the Ashton Stern. Causing severe damage to its deck.
Seeing this happening to one of their own, the changeling in charge of the ICS Queen Chrysalis and the Cobalt left their defensive positions and started sailing towards the approaching fleet.
The cobalt sail towards the Sovereign and the Bradford while the Queen Chrysalis headed towards the RNS Kai Tak.
This is when the battle got intense.
Despite being outnumbered by the Americans and the river ponies, the changeling ships were doing a pretty good job holding their own. It was clear that these ships got major upgrades before the war began.
Meanwhile with the Sovereign, the frozen war era ship was still fighting the ICS Ashton. This battle cruiser was way tougher than Mako thought it would be. But this ship face way scarier enemies in its 30-year long career and the Admiral knew for a fact that this battle wasn’t going to be at last.
After he turned the warship so that it’s starboard side would be facing its enemy, the admiral turn to look at a green sea pony and said.
“Lieutenant Daphne, launch the torpedoes.”
“Yes, admiral.” She said before launching for torpedoes right at the battle cruiser.
The changelings were only able to destroy one of the torpedoes with their machine guns before the other three hit the ship’s starboard side. The explosion send water high into the air and tore a large hole into its hull. Compromising three watertight compartments.
Despite the damage it received, the Ashton was still floating.
In retaliation, it launch six of its own torpedoes ahead Sovereign path.
Seeing this, Mako had a problem on his hands.
His ship was moving way too fast to stop in time, and thanks to the length and width of the vessel, wouldn’t turn fast enough even with its bow thrusters spinning at full speed.
Then, he had an idea. An idea so crazy that it just might work.
He after he pulled the throttle all the way back making the ships five large azipod propellers to stop spinning, he picked up the radio receiver and changed its frequency. “Engineer Cavill, do you read me?”
“This is Engineer Cavill, what do you need?”
“I need you guys to drop the starboard anchor.”
This shocked the engineer and every pony on the bridge.
“What?! Admiral, we’re sailing at 22 knots. Dropping the anchor at this speed is dangerous.”
“I know, but the Ashton launched a bunch of torpedoes right in our path, and if we don’t stop now, we will get hit. And we don’t want the sovereign to get crippled by the changelings of all creatures.”
Mako heard a sigh coming from the engineer.
“I won’t.” Mako said before putting the receiver down.
A few moments later, the anchor was released, and it sank to the bottom of the harbor.
As the heavy chains continue to fall into the water, the air in the bridge was filled with anxiety.
Finally, the heavy anchor caught on something, pulling the chain tightly and making the ship stop an instant. Making a loud *clang* sound in the process.
Seconds later, the torpedoes passed in front of the ship, missed the bow by a few feet.
Thanks to the speed the Sovereign was sailing at, the ship started to swing to the left, stern first.
Giving the ship's large guns a clear line of fire.
“Lieutenant commander, send the Ashton to taurus.” Shogun commanded.
“Yes, Admiral.” Neil said before he manually aimed all the Sovereign main guns at the crippled cruiser.
‘This is for Saigon.’ He thought before he tap the fire button.
In that instant 20 large caliber shells flew through the air and hit the enemy ship. Severely damaging the hull and deck.
After waiting 10 seconds for the guns to reload, Neil fired another barrage of shells. Eliminating the Ashton mighty guns. Now the ship was not only crippled, but defenseless. But the sea ponies on board Sovereign did not care. This is what they get for attacking the Equestria of the east.
The changeling on the other ships try to help them out, only to get shot down by the anti-air rail guns that is on board the Kai Tak and Lillypad.
Then all of a sudden, one of the high explosive shells went through the Ashton’s deck and detonated in one of the ship’s armories. Causing a massive explosion that ripped the bow right off the ship. Stealing its fate.
“Hold your fire.” Mako commanded before he walked over to a window.
At this point, the ICS Ashton was nothing more than a useless piece of scrap slowly sinking into New York Harbor. Black smoke came out the ship's funnel, a clear sign that the engine was severely damaged.
The water surrounding the sinking ship was Full of life rafts and changeling sailors that abandoned ship.
Eventually, the USS Gettysburg and RNS sovereign organize their life rafts and lifeboats to pick up the survivors.
After the rescue missions were over, the Sovereign retrieved its starboard anchor and follow the Gettysburg back into the fight.
The battle dragged on for another 30 long minutes as the changeling ships try to survive, no matter the cost.
Finally, an aircraft carrier named the USS Abraham Lincoln, and the rest of the northeastern fleet arrived in New York.
This was when the changelings on board the Queen chrysalis and the Cobalt decided that trying to take over the harbor was a loss cause and retreated back to their empire.
===•••===
As the sun was setting over the horizon, Apollo was hard at work trying to come up with new battle plans.
Ever since Entente and US forces liberated the southern half of Manhattan from the Jackboots, Apollo was sent back to Central Manhattan and put in charge of all military units in the region with Mapleleaf as his second in command.
And for good reason.
Unlike the south, the changelings were able to entrench themselves in northern Manhattan. Making the progress to free the north to go slower than a snail. To make matters worse, changelings and their jackboot friends were able to take over Bronx with the help of their compatriots that retreated from lower Manhattan. Leaving Queens very vulnerable.
But thanks to Apollo strategy of using superior fire power, they were able to pushed the invaders back. Saving the Queensborough bridge and going far north as The American Museum of Natural History. As expected, these battles were very hard to win.
After he finish speaking with a Griffonian general, Apollo teleported to the top of the UN skyscraper to have a minute to himself.
Looking at the Manhattan skyline, Apollo can see that the jewel in America’s crown was not shining brightly as it usually is.
Most buildings like the Empire State building had their lights off so they wouldn’t become targets. While others were either abandoned, lost power, or burnt out husks.
Manhattan wasn’t the only place experiencing this. On the other side of the Hudson River, Union City, West New York and Jersey City were also victims of this invasion.
“Coming up here was a mistake.” Apollo said dryly.
Before he can teleport, he heard someone landing behind him. He immediately took out his switchblade and turn around, ready to kill.
But instead of seeing a Black League soldier or a Kirin supremacist he saw a familiar gray pegasus with his hands up.
“WOAH! Apollo put your knife down. I am not a changeling!” Connor said in shock.
“Sorry. I’m a bit paranoid right now.” Apollo said before he put his switchblade away.
“It’s…ok.” If Connor had to be honest, he was a little unnerved on how neutral Apollo‘s voice sounded. “Are you ok.”
“I’m fine. Anyway, did you find anything during your reconnaissance mission?”
“He gathered a lot of Intel and to put it bluntly, it’s pretty concerning.”
“How so?”
“Well, we found out that the changelings have turned the northern parts of central Park into a temporarily base and supply hub. Weapons, supplies and fresh soldiers are arriving there as we speak.”
“Did they cut down the trees or something?”
“No. They are using the trees as covers, sir.”
‘Well, that’s going to make the war a lot easier for us.’ Apollo thought sarcastically.
“We also learned that the changelings have taken over small towns north of Bronx, like Mount Vernon and New Rochelle. They tried to invade Yonkers, but the US Marines prevented that from happening.”
“Dammit. Is there anything else?”
“No, that is all.” Connor replied before a loud explosion rock the building.
“What the hell?!” Apollo exclaimed before he and Connor flew off the roof to see what was going on.
On the side of the UN skyscraper is a large gash, exposing the 29th and the 30th floor to the cold winter air. With flames coming out of the hole. And in the north, almost 3 miles away from the Queensboro Bridge, a large swarm of changelings crossing the river, heading towards Queens.
Then they noticed two artillery guns that were positioned near the southern tip of Roosevelt Island. They shot two artillery shells at the United Nations. Both of which landed right in front of the building, damaging its main entrance.
“Oh, so that’s where it came from.” Apollo said before conjuring up a ball of blue energy in his right hand and throwing it with as much force as possible. Wiping the artillery guns and the changelings operating it off the map.
After that, Apollo teleported himself and Connor back to sold ground.
As expected, the area was total chaos. Some creatures were setting up defensive positions while others were trying to figure out what was going on or tending to the wounded.
“Where is she?” Apollo muttered before he found Mapleleaf. “Hey Maple!”
“Yes, Apollo?” She said after running over to him.
“The changelings are crossing the river to Queens from the Bronx and I need a Battalion or two worth of soldiers to head over there right now. Can you help me out with that?”
“Of course.”
After they organize all the troops they need to save Queens, Apollo and Connor got in one of the trucks and went to Queens via the Queens midtown tunnel, leaving Mapleleaf in charge of central Manhattan.
After they arrived in an area of Queens name hunters point, they started to advance slowly through the streets until they encountered a few changeling regiments.
Apollo was the first one to fire, killing a changeling general. Catching them by surprise.
Since the changelings didn’t establish a strong foothold yet, it was pretty easy to push them back. But the advance was halted as quickly as it started when they arrived in a neighborhood name Long Island city, Queens.
Using his binoculars, Apollo looking to see where the changelings were getting so many new troops from. Almost immediately he got his answer when he looked north east.
“Goddamnit!”
“What is it?”
“The changelings captured LaGuardia airport.”
“What’s an airport?” Connor ask.
“On earth, we call air stations, airports.” Apollo answered.
“Oh. Wait, that airport is the reason why they are fighting tooth and nail now?”
“Yep, they’re going to be doing everything in their power to keep it. Hold on, I’m gonna call for reinforcements.” Apollo said before getting his phone out of his pocket and calling Atlas.
Atlas: ”Hey Apollo, what’s going on?”
Apollo: "There’s no time for pleasantries. I need your tank units in Queens right now! The changelings are invading Queens, and they took over LaGuardia already.”
Atlas: "What?! Oh God, the battle going to last for a week at this rate. What neighborhood are you in now?”
Apollo: "We are a half a mile north of the Queensboro Bridge.”
Atlas: "Hold your position for now, I will be there as fast as I can.”
After that, the call ended.
===•••===
Karbyshev was two city blocks away from the battlefield, waiting for his young subordinate to arrive.
The invasion of America went better than predicted. Establishing a foothold on this side of the river, captured an air station, and his forces were quickly spreading into neighboring towns and cities.
Sure, they lost the southern half of Manhattan and a battleship, but those were just minor setbacks.
After a few minutes of waiting, Maximus landed in front of the old leader of the League.
“Supreme commander.” He said after saluting him. “If you want to talk about me not invading this island fast enough, I just want to say-“
“It’s not that.” Karbyshev interjected. “You did really well given the circumstances. You captured an air station and managed to establish a stronghold on this side of the river before the humans and the ponies arrived.” He said before hearing a loud *BBBRRR* sound coming from an A-10 flying overhead.
“If you don’t mind me asking, why did you summon me?” Maximus ask, now confused.
“Because I have a new plan to disorganize the entente forces and destroying their morale.”
“How are we going to do that? No matter what we throw at them, the ponies and humans still charge at us.”
“By cutting the head off the human lead snake of course. Me and a squad of soldiers will attack them while you continue to rain tartarus down on their forces. After the ponies see their corpses, not only will the alliance between the humans and them will eventually fall apart, but they will abandon the city altogether, thinking that there’s no point to fight here. Do you understand?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good, you’re dismissed.”
===•••===
Atlas was walking through a dimly lit commercial area, with a platoon accompanying him and a tank a few yards ahead.
It’s been 20 minutes since he and his tank divisions arrived in Queens. While he was making his way towards the borough, he gather more divisions for the battle ahead. Giving him an enough divisions to protect Brooklyn and JFK from the changelings, with Firefly’s leading some of these units.
As expected of an urban war zone, the area was quiet. The only sound they can hear is the sound of war, the tank’s engine and snow crunching under their feet.
As they were about to leave the commercial zone, some snow landed right next to Atlas. He looked up to see if they were any enemies standing on the roof above him. There was nothing. But the real danger was in the small pile of snow.
It was at that moment when a blinding light appeared and a loud *bang* followed afterwards.
After his vision return to him and the ringing in his ears had stopped, Atlas saw that his platoon was under attack. Changelings came out of the shadows as a few soldiers that weren’t blinded by the flashbacks, fought back. On the ground, four equestrians were already dead.
Without thinking, Atlas aimed his rifle and pull the trigger, saving his comrades.
*Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang, bang, bang bang bang*
Nine changelings were now dead, lying in the snow with the ponies they have killed.
Before Atlas could reload his weapon, another changeling came out of nowhere and punched him right in the gut. It was so painful, Atlas thought he was going to throw up right then and there.
The changeling then picked him up in his magic and threw him into a bunch of trash cans. Losing his rifle in the process.
“Damn, that hurt.” He groaned before the figure walked under a light pole.
Seeing the veteran’s old grizzled face, Atlas instantly recognized who was standing right in front of him. “Karbyshev.” He said with distain.
“Wow, the human knows who I am.” The commander smiled.
“It’s hard not to hear about the changeling who founded one of the most vile organizations on Equis.”
Karbyshev rolled his eyes. “Of course, you believe in that propaganda. How did she convince you to believe that nonsense? Brainwashing? Or did she open her legs like the whor-“
In a blink of an eye, Atlas teleported back on his feet and punched him right in the jaw, sending the old commander back a few feet.
“Don’t you DARE talk about my wife like that!”
Karbyshev spat out some blood before igniting his horn and started shooting a bunch of beams at Atlas. The young Sun Emperor was able to dodge the beams by teleporting to a bunch of random spots.
After teleporting onto a roof, Atlas retaliated by shooting his own beam of magic. The old changeling try to dodge it, but the beam grazed him. Giving him a painful cut on his upper left arm.
Karbyshev teleported behind Atlas and kicked him off the building. Instead of plummeting to his death, the human float to the ground while flipping the old changing off.
Angry that his opponent wasn’t dead yet, Karbyshev took out his combat knife threw himself on top of Atlas. Slamming him onto the ground back first.
He tried to stab Atlas in the neck, but Atlas was able to grab his wrist before the blade touched him.
They stayed like that for what felt like a minute.
The changeling try to ignore the pain, but it got too much for him and he let go of the knife because of it.
Since he was distracted by the pain, this gave Atlas a perfect opportunity to use his magic to push him off of him.
After looking at the second-degree burn on his right wrist and the burn fabric surrounding it, Karbyshev had enough. “I try to do this as painless as possible, but I guess you want do this the hard way.” He said before grabbing Atlas with his magic and throwing him into the side of a nearby Bank of America.
Before Atlas could realize what just happened, Karbyshev grabbed him again and slammed him into the wall three more times until the human broke through it.
This was the straw that broke the camel's back for the building, causing it to collapse.
“Finally.” Karbyshev said after the dust settled. “The sun has set and its emperor is dead, how poetic. One down, two more to go.”
Before Karbyshev can walk away, he heard a low humming sound coming from the rubble. He turned around and saw that there was a bright orange light coming from it.
“What in Taurus is this?”
The humming got louder and a light got brighter before an explosion send broken bits of concrete, rebar, and wood flying everywhere.
After getting rid of his shield and opening up his eyes, Karbyshev couldn’t believe what he was looking at.
Standing a few yards away from him was Atlas, but he looked different. His pupils were replaced by an orange sun with a single star in the middle.
“How?” The changeling commander said in shock.
“A powerful shield spell. But all seriousness though, the fact that you thought that I would allow myself to get crushed to death, it’s fucking hilarious.” Atlas laughed.
“Now.” Atlas cracked his neck before continuing. “Let’s dance.” Then he teleported away.
“Where did he go? Where did that pony fucker go?”
“Right here.” A voice said from behind.
Before he can turn around, the old changeling was kicked hard in the back, sending him flying through the air and landing face first into the ground.
Just like unicorns, Alicorn, and kirins, the horn is one of the strongest body parts on the changeling body. And just like its pony counterparts, it’s pretty sensitive.
So the pain Karbyshev was feeling hit him like a freight train. Despite this, he slowly got up, wipe the blood that was coming out nasty cut from his forehead and try to get his bearings.
Only for Atlas to grab his head and knee him right the face. He also slammed his head the ground multiple times causing blood to come out of his nose like a leaking faucet.
Seeing this, some changeling soldiers try to help their commander, only to get their path blocked by a pony and getting killed in the process.
“Are you going to leave the city yet?” Atlas ask after slamming Karbyshev’s had into the concrete for four time.
“Fuck you, fuck this city, and fuck that sun loving slu-“
Before he can finish that sentence, Atlas picked him up, flew as high as three-story in the air and body slammed him. Creating a large crater in the center of the road.
“Don’t insult my wife.” He said coldly before the changeling pulled out his gun. Which Atlas kick it out of his hand.
After that Atlas started beating the ever living shit out of him.
This was when Karbyshev teleported out of Atlas grasp in desperation, stumbling and running towards his pistol.
Before he can grab it, Atlas shot him in the back.
He walk over to the dying changeling, with his pistol aimed right at him.
“Any last words?” Atlas ask.
Karbyshev coughed up some blood before speaking. “They will avenge me. Not….only the league, but the empire as well. They will do the same with Ferdinand.”
“I really doubt that.” Atlas emptied his magazine into the commander. Killing the founder of the Black League.
“Good riddance.” Atlas said as he put his gun in his holster. As he was doing this, he noticed that the sound of explosions and gunfire was gone.
“The fight must be over already.” He said before he ran to where he left his troops at.
“Your majesty?” A voice said weakly, which made Atlas stop in his tracks.
Atlas looked around until he saw a gray Kirin soldier leaning back against a wall, with her right hand, covering a red spot on her right side of her lower abdomen.
Atlas ran over to her and asked. “What happened? Why are you doing out here all alone?”
“I got separated from the other during the battle. I took out a few changelings, but one of them stabbed me.” The soldier said with a thestral accent.
“Before I ask anything else, what’s your name?”
“Staff Sergeant Riga Blade.”
“Staff Sergeant, can I see your injury?”
After thinking it over for a little bit, Riga took her hand off the wound, revealing a decently size cut that almost immediately it started to bleed.
‘Damn, whoever stabbed her, got her good.’
“How does it look?”
“It’s not pretty, but I think you can survive this if we get you to a medic in time. Now all I need to do is find a medic patch you up.” He answered.
Riga sighed. “Just leave me here.”
“What?”
“You don’t need to sugarcoat it, I know i’m going to slow the platoon down.”
“Is that why you didn’t try to get back to the others?”
Riga nodded.
“Well, that’s the last thing I’m going to be doing.”
“Why?”
“Because I’m not leaving someone behind that can live to see another day. It’s pretty selfless that you want me and your fellow soldiers to do that, but I won’t be able to live with that on my conscience. You should pass on comfortably surrounded by friends and family, not cold and miserable in the streets of an urban warzone.”
“But you might get ambush-“
“That’s fine. But that won’t stop me from getting you to safety. I’ll be right back. Continue to apply pressure on that wound.” Atlas said before teleporting away.
A minute later, Atlas came back with their platoon medic. After she was patched up, Atlas teleported her behind the front lines to get a well deserve rest.
===•••===
General Yazov was in a local Starbucks that he in a few others have taken over to use as a temporary headquarters.
Every human civilian that was hiding in the local establishment was allowed to leave, while the employees were being used as their personal servants. Giving them drinks and snacks as they worked hard to subjugate their communities.
After he wrote his signature on a piece of paper, Yazov took a sip of his drink that one of the baristas gave him a few minutes ago.
The drink was called a caramel macchiato. A strange name for a coffee with caramel in it. The word macchiato was a very strange word in Yazov’s opinion, but he didn’t think about it too much.
All that mattered was that it tasted good and it was not poisoned.
After he put his cup down, a changeling walked over to his table while holding a small white box with the letters USPS on its side.
“General Yazov, an equestrian soldier gave this to us and said that it’s for you. It’s from Emperor Atlas.” He said
“Is it safe?” Yazov looked at the soldier with a serious look in eyes.
“Yes, it’s safe, we checked.” The soldier said before putting the box down on the table.
“Ok, thank you, you’re dismissed.”
After that, the soldier walked out of the coffee shop.
“Hmmm, I wonder what the human has sent me?”
This made the changeling’s heart skip a beat as he notice a letter taped on the back of the hat.
The general opened it up and began reading.
===•••===
Dear General Yavov.
You might be wondering why I have sent you a package instead of another attack from my forces.
Because I am happy to inform you that you are now the new boss of the Black League! Congratulations, you get to clean up the mess your processor has left behind.
Knowing this information, you might be wondering, where’s Karbyshev?
He is currently lying down at the intersection of 31st St and 36th Ave. You might want to get him before the rats do because they are BIG.
Have fun your new position!
With much animosity, Emperor Atlas Jupiter Yukon.
(P.S. I hope you get frostbite.)
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
January 28 2012 A.D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBQE_TNI7zw&pp=ygUTcGFwZXJzIHBsZWFzZSB0aGVtZQ%3D%3D
Yazov was still in his temporary headquarters, rubbing his temples trying to prevent a headache from developing as changelings of all ranks were running around the Starbucks. Trying to get themselves out of the situation they were in.
The death of Supreme Commander Karbyshev hit the General like a freight train. He couldn’t believe it, a stallion that he was proud to call a friend for over 12 years was gone. In a time when his country needed him the most.
When a recovery team brought his body back, they were shocked to see the state his body was in. He was beaten to a pulp and 17 bullet wounds were all over him.
Before Yazov knew it, the commander’s death spread like wildfire. Which made the higher ups within the league worried that the ponies might take advantage of the situation.
And they were right. 30 minutes after Karbyshev was confirmed to be dead, the ponies attacked the changelings in Manhattan.
Since these military divisions were under the direct control of Karbyshev, they received no orders to defend their positions or attack their enemies.
This breakdown of communication was a gift from God for the Entente, allowing them to push the changelings further north and cut through Manhattan like butter.
They tried multiple times to stabilize the front but every time they tried, it always ended in a complete disaster.
In a blink of an eye, the black league went from a military force that was marching through New York, to running around with its head cut off.
“Maybe we should move some of the troops we have in Connecticut to Manhattan to stabilize our front lines.” One general suggested.
“There’s no way in taurus I’m going to be moving my units away from that front. We’re doing great in the north right now. If that front collapse because of that, we might as well hand the victory to the humans.” A Junior commander said, shock that his own colleague was suggest something like that.
This argument continued for a while before Yazov snapped. “ENOUGH!” His fist slammed onto the table, startling the two arguing changelings and gain the attention of everyone else.
He pull the map of the US closer to himself before speaking to his general.
“What? Why?” She asked.
“Isn’t it obvious? There’s no way we can recover the land that we’ve lost and at this rate, all of the soldiers we have left in that area are going to be surrounded.” He explained.
“So your solution to our problem is to flee with our tails between our legs? After everything we’ve been through to keep that city under our control?”
“I don’t like it either, but we have to face the fact that Manhattan is a lost cause. Not only that, but it serves no military purpose, all it is just tall concrete buildings. There’s no air stations or large shipping ports.”
“The supreme commander has a point, we already got four air stations and a major port under our control, losing Manhattan is not going to kill us.” The junior commander stated.
“I’m glad you agree, Ezekiel.” Yazov replied.
“Yes, supreme commander.” She said before teleported away.
A few moments later, Yazov got up from his chair, put on his predecessor’s old hat and was about to leave the coffee shop when his subordinate spoke up.
“Supreme commander, where are you going?”
“I’m going to Queens to check on Maximus and his regiments. He is dealing with a lot of pressure from Emperor Atlas and Emperor Apollo, and I want to make sure that that air station does not fall into their hands. If anything happens over here, let me know. Do I make myself clear?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good. I’ll be back soon.” Yazov said before leaving the Starbucks and flying away.
===•••===
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TU207q70dog&pp=ygUSdG5vIGdlcm1hbiBhbmFyY2h5
As the sun began to rise over the war-torn city, Artemis was in the upper east side of Manhattan, near Central Park, assisting with the relief efforts in the area.
Almost 4 hours ago, the changelings did something that surprised everybody, they abandon Manhattan and retreated to Bronx.
If Artemis knew that Karbyshev’s death would cause the Black League to retreat like this, he would’ve hunt down that old changeling and killed him himself.
Unfortunately, the changelings and their allies did not leave the northern parts Manhattan unscathed.
They defaced churches, synagogues, and mosques. They looted stores of essential items like food and medical supplies, and they even damaged critical infrastructure, like water towers and power lines.
Seeing the damage they have caused made him wonder how humans were going to treat the changelings after the war was over.
After delivering much needed food and water to a family in need, Artemis notice some commotion happening across the street. So he went over there to see what was going on.
When he got there, he saw a black guy in his early 20s arguing with a pegasus medic and few pony soldiers.
“Hey, what’s going on here?” Artemis asks.
The man turned to Artemis. “Finally, a normal person. Please tell these aliens to leave me the fuck alone.”
“Dude, what happened to your arm?” Artemis ask after noticing a nasty cut on the man’s left arm.
“Oh, this? I was walking down the street when I slipped on some ice and cut myself. I’m just going back to my apartment to get some bandages.”
“That cut looks pretty bad. How about you let this mare give you a check up?” Artemis said, referring to the medic.
“Hell, no!” He said in shock
“Why not?”
“Because I am not letting a bunch of aliens near me.” He replied.
“Sir, what’s your name?”
“Prince.”
“Prince, they are not going to do anything to you other than making sure you’re all right.” Artemis assured.
“How do you know that they are not going to do anything suspicious?”
“Because I am their sergeant. If they did anything harmful to anyone, they would have to deal with a severe punishment.”
“Wait, you’re your boss?”
Artemis nodded.
“So there is nothing to worry about?” Prince ask.
“That’s correct. If it makes you feel better, I’ll be here.”
After hearing what Artemis just said, and seeing that the pony aliens only want to help, Prince decided to trust them. “Fine.”
As Prince was getting his arm patched up, Artemis stayed as promised. He knew that Prince was not the first person in New York to be wary of the ponies, and definitely not the last.
“This is going to be a long day.” He said quietly to himself.
===•••===
Apollo was driving away from Citi Field after delivering a truckload of medical supplies to the stadium.
After US forces freed the stadium from changeling occupation, it was decided that it would be used as a military hospital for all the soldiers that wounded during the during the night.
The sound of gunfire and explosions could be heard coming from LaGuardia airport as he drove through Queens.
After he took a right turn, one of the truck’s tires pop.
“Goddamnit.” He muttered as he pulled over.
After he got out of the truck, he saw that the left front wheel was flat.
Before Apollo can go to the back and get the spare, multiple bullets hit the side of the truck. Missing him by about 1ft.
After he conjured up a shield, he saw that a small group of changelings were coming out of a nearby alley and shooting at him.
It was an ambush.
Apollo pulled his pistol out of its holster and started shooting back, hitting two changelings right in the head.
He then teleported next to another changeling, kicked her in the side and shot her four times in the chest. After the body hit the ground, Apollo took her pistol.
Now with one gun in each hand, Apollo was able to kill the last two remaining changelings at the same time.
After catching his breath, the young emperor consort got rid of the magical shield, lean against the wall and said. “These guys really don’t know when to quit.”
Suddenly, he heard some noise coming from the alleyway.
Believing that there was another changeling hiding there, he went into the alley to investigate.
And he was right. At the end of the alley was a changeling sitting on the ground with a rifle in his hands.
But unlike the other changelings, he was frozen in fear.
When Apollo got closer to the changeling, he threw his rifle on the ground in front of him and put his hands up.
“I surrender, please don’t kill me! I mean no harm!”
“No harm? How can you mean no harm when you’re wearing a black league uniform? Do I look like a fucking idiot to you?”
“I can see why you don’t trust me, but believe me, I never want to come here and I don’t care about the Great trial.”
Apollo rolled his eyes. “Yeah, right. All of you black league bastards eat, sleep and breathe that phrase.”
“It’s true! You have to believe me!” He pleaded.
“And why is that?” Apollo said with suspicion.
“Because I am not like those bastards in the league. I actually have a soul, but I had no choice but to come here because I was drafted!”
“Drafted?”
“Yes, I was drafted. My name is Reginald, I’m not a warrior, I am just a teacher and a family stallion.” Regional reach into his breast pocket and took out a photo.
Apollo put his old gun back in his holster, took the photo out of Reginald’s right hand and saw that it was a photo of a wholesome little family.
“That’s my wife, Molly, and my daughter, Ocellus. I haven’t seen them in four months. I was in Boot Camp for all that time. ”
“Four months? Damn, I’m sorry.” Apollo said before handing the photo back to Changeling.
“Thank you. You know when they said I was going to be a part of the Black league, I felt kind of relieved because all they do is hunt down suspected enemies of the state. They didn’t even participate in the last war, so I thought I would be fine.” Reginald said before his expression darkened.
“Or so I thought before they announced that they were shipping me and my platoon to Earth a few days before our training was completed. I’m not exaggerating when I say I have seen so much messed up things in the past 24 hours. I never wanted this!” Then he started to tear up.
“Now I know why princess Zeya betrayed the queen. If I was in her shoes, I would’ve done the same thing. Which is why you have to believe me. Emperor Apollo, please don’t kill me i’ll do anything.” Reginald begged.
“Hey, you don’t need to do that, I’m not going to kill you.” Apollo assured.
“Thank you, thank you.” He said with relief.
“But I do have to take you in as a prisoner of war.”
“Please do. Anything is better than going back on the front.”
“I’m glad you feel that way.” Apollo said after helping Reginald to get back on his feet. “But if you do anything stupid while I’m driving, I will beat you.”
“I promise I won’t do anything like that.”
“Good.”
After Reginald got in the truck and Apollo replace the flat tire, Apollo continue on his journey back to base.
===•••===
After a seven hour long flight on board the airship, Northstar, Princess Zeya was finally in the capital city of Changelinea.
But this wasn’t a normal day in the office, today Zeya is going to make a televise speech that will change the fate of Changelinea forever.
As her motorcade made its way through the large city, the changeling princess looked out the window and watched as the changeling residence did their daily routines.
After the first Equestrian-Changeling war ended, the population of Changelinea exploded since most of the changelings that fled to Equestria decide to rebuild their lives here. Since this region used to be a part of the empire.
And ever since the HMMLR made Ashton their home base, they received a tsunami of new recruits who were determined to overthrow the queen that turned their homeland into an authoritarian taurus.
Before she knew it, her motorcade arrived at City Hall.
After an HMMLR soldier opened the car’s door, Zeya entered the building, made her way up to second floor and entered The building’s pressroom. Where a large group of journalist and reporters from around the world were waiting for her.
“Princess, is so good to see you.” General Irwin said as he hugged Zeya.
“It’s good to see you too, general.”
After they ended a hug, the lrwin looked at her uniform.
“Looking good young lady. It looks like you’re ready to command armies now.”
“Thank you. I’m glad I looked the part.”
“So, are you ready to make history?” Irwin asks.
“Yes, I am. Wish me luck.” She said before getting up on stage and walking to the podium.
On the front of the podium is A horizontal tricolor flag with blue on the top, white in the middle and gray on the bottom, with the emblem of the changelings in the center. This is the of Changelinea.
After the camera flashes died down, Zeya began to speak.
“Good morning every creature, today is a historical day, not only for the Equestrians and their allies, but for the changelings as well. As you already know, yesterday the Changeling Empire is once again on the warpath, determined to expand across the globe.”
“The corrupt warmongers and changeling supremacist will not succeed because Changelinea will not allow itself to be conquered. As of today, the Kingdom of Changelinea it’s now independent nation and we are at war with the empire. Our goal in this war is to march to Vesalipolis and overthrow the regime that has corrupted our nation. To the changelings of this new nation, I do not want your praise, I do not want your oath of loyalty. All I want is to know if you are ready to fight to retake our loss home.”
“Queen chrysalis of the Changeling Empire, you had two long years to change the empire’s course, but instead you did nothing but encourage the fanatics. Now millions of changelings are going to die because of your stubbornness and pride. You are the one to blame for this war, not the ponies or the humans. We will see each other again, but not as mother and daughter, but as enemies on a battlefield. That is all.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMn5xcwpzUk&pp=ygUgbGV0IG15IHBlb3BsZSBnbyBwcmluY2Ugb2YgZWd5cHQ%3D
After she ended her speech, the press started to ask questions as the changeling princess walked off the stage.
As she was trying her best to answer their questions, the Army, Air Force and Navy of Changelinea were heading north to fight their imperial counterparts.
===•••===
Chrysalis turned off her bedroom TV after watching her daughter’s speech on the news.
Not only was she wearing an HMMLR uniform, but she declared that she will overthrow her own mother.
Chrysalis walked over to her dresser, her high heels made an audible sound which each step.
She picked up a framed photo of her, Zeya and her late husband, King cobalt.
“Oh Zeya, how could you come to hate me so much? I’m doing this for the Empire and for you, and yet you want to fight me because of it.” She said quietly before she put down on her dresser.
She walked over to her window, observing the busy city outside of her palace.
“If it’s a fight you want, it’s a fight you will get.”
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
February 2, 2012 A.D.
It was a freezing, but sunny day in New York City and right now, Atlas was driving over the Brooklyn Bridge in Artemis truck with Apollo and Luna accompany him.
It’s been five days since the changelings and their allies lost LaGuardia airport, and since then, New York City was finally free.
Atlas and Apollo were busy helping the city recover while Artemis was fighting the nationalists in Connecticut.
But since peace return to the city that never sleeps, this gave the Yukon brothers an opportunity to check on their family. While giving Luna the chance to meet her future human in-laws.
If Luna had to be honest, she was eager to meet them, but also really nervous. She was worried that they wouldn’t accept her and won't allow their son to marry her.
She knew these fears were irrational, but this didn’t stop her from worrying.
Attempt to calm her nerves, she looked out the window to see the borough that her fiancé grew up in.
Besides a few damaged roads near JFK, Brooklyn was not affected by the war, just like Staten Island. So the locals were out and about as usual, albeit with a bit of caution.
Finally, they arrived at the Yukon residence after 40 minutes of driving.
“So, this is your childhood home.” Luna said after getting out of the vehicle.
“Yep, this is it.” Atlas said as he walked up the stoop.
“Before you ring doorbell, I need to ask you two something.”
“What is it?” Apollo asks.
“Do I look presentable enough?” Luna asks.
“Of course you do. Why would you ask that?”
“I was thinking that I would change into something nicer before meeting your family. I don’t want to give them the wrong impression.”
“That’s what you’re worried about? Luna, you’re about to meet my parents, not the president of the United States.” Apollo said. “But all seriousness though, you will do fine. Just be yourself.”
“I agree. Plus, I think they would respect you even more since you’re royal in uniform.” Atlas chimed in before he rang the doorbell.
They didn’t have to wait long before the door opened, revealing Stephanie on the other side with a look of surprise on her face.
“Oh my God, my boys are finally back home.” She said as she hugged her sons. “I was worried sick. Wait, where is Artemis?”
“He’s fighting in Connecticut. He should be in Bridgeport by now.” Atlas answered.
“Oh.” Stephanie said with disappointment before she noticed Luna. “Is this one of your soldiers?”
“No, she’s actually a special guess.” Said Apollo.
“Oh really? Well, in that case, come on in.” Stephanie stepped on the way to allow the brothers and their guest and inside the apartment.
They walked into the family room, where Andrew, Douglas and Deborah were at.
“Hey everyone, we’re home.” Atlas greeted.
“Good afternoon boys we’re glad you guys made it back.” Douglas smiled.
“You didn’t get yourselves hurt out there, did you?”
“Besides a few scrapes and a little bit of road rash, we’re fine.” Apollo said.
“That’s good to hear.”
“Whose is the alien behind you?” Deborah asked with slight suspicion.
“They said that she is a special guest.” Stephanie said from the kitchen.
“So, who is this guest of honor?” Andrew asks.
“Before we get to that, we need everyone down here, right now.” Atlas said.
“I’ll be right back. I’m going to get Patrick.” Douglas said before he left the room. A little while later, he came back with his son.
“Everyone we would like to introduce to you, Empress Luna Nova Faust, she is my fiancé.” Apollo explained.
“Hello, every pony, it’s nice to finally meet you all.”
“Wait, this is Luna? The same Luna that you were telling us about before everything went downhill?”
“Yep, this is the same wonderful mare.”
“Bloody hell.” Andrew chuckled. “It’s nice to meet you too, Luna.” He said, shaking the Empress’ hand. “Take a seat, make yourself at home.”
“That’s not necessary.”
“We insist.” Stephanie said.
“Ok if you say so.” Luna said, as she sat down on the couch.
“Anyway, my name is Andrew, the triplets’ father.”
“My name is Stephanie, I’m their mom. That’s Deborah, my sister and that’s her husband Douglas. And last, but not least my nephew, Patrick.”
“Hello.” Patrick said.
“So, you’re Patrick.” Luna approached the child. “Your cousins told me all about you.”
His eyes lit up. “Really?”
“Yep, they even told me about Stefan and BJ as well.”
“Speaking of the little cousins, where is the rest of the family?” Atlas asks.
“Barlow and Maya left a day after the violence ended in Queens, and Grandma Amelia is with your granddad and grandmum.” Andrew answered.
“And we decide to stay with your parents for obvious reasons.” Douglas said.
“Huh, it looks like we have a few more stops to make.” Apollo said in thought.
“Let’s get back to more positive subject.” Stephanie said before turning to Luna. “So how did you and Apollo first met?”
“We met when he and his brothers accidentally crashed my sister‘s birthday party by falling out of the sky and destroying everything.”
Family room was silent for a few moments before Deborah spoke up. “How did they fall out the sky?”
“The portal we were pulled into opened up right above their party for some reason. I landed on top of the cake, Apollo landed on top of the snack table and Artemis landed on top of a large teddy bear on the presents table.” Atlas explained.
“Did you three get injured from that fall?” Their mom asks.
“No, we didn’t get injured.” Said Apollo.
“But I did alert the royal guards, and they were chased around the castle and the city for a little while. That wasn’t my proudest moment.” Luna said, she still felt bad for what she did back then.
“That’s understandable. I mean, I would’ve called the authorities if I found three aliens falling out the sky and landing in my backyard. Sorry, continue.” Douglas commented.
“After we realized they weren’t a threat, we tried to get them back to earth, but the passage was way too dangerous for them to go through. So, we helped them integrate into Equestrian society. Me, my sister and our friends got to know them, and they told us about what it’s like on Earth, especially America. We even learned about your holidays, like Christmas, Easter, thanksgiving and St Patrick day to name a few.”
“So, you weren’t stuck in the wilderness in Canada after all?” Douglas asks.
“Far from it, we were living our best lives. We got high-paying government jobs, made a lot of friends, and we live in a castle.” Apollo explained.
“Thank goodness. This might be a little embarrassing to admit, but I thought you three were victims of human trafficking for a while.”
Everyone except for Patrick and Douglas stared at her with wide eyes.
“Why what do you think that?” Andrew asks.
“Because ever since I saw Artemis react to seeing that strange coin, I realize that their stories didn’t make any sense at all. They claimed that they cross the border at Niagara Falls, which is pretty much impossible, and the Canadians did not alert us that the triplets were trying to cross the border. Not only that, everything they had their possession was in really good condition. If they were really in the woods for three years, they would’ve been damage or destroyed.”
“I thought it was a bit outlandish too, until she told me all the things she noticed. We even told Maya about it as well. But we didn’t tell you all about this because we wanted to make sure we had enough evidence to give to the authorities.” Douglas interjected.
“But we have nothing to worry about since most of the things you told us were made up.” Deborah smiled.
“Should we tell them?” Atlas ask Apollo.
“Tell us what?” She asks, confuse.
“Most of the stories we told you aren’t made up they’re actually based off real life events. We just changed them up a bit.” Apollo answered.
“So, the market fights actually happened?” Andrew asks.
“Yes, but instead of a fish market, the fights take place in a large mall. Every pony was trying to get a new book named Saturn one, which is a really entertaining space sci-fi book by the way. In fact, we got the sequel Saturn two back in late November.”
“That sounds a lot like the stupidness you would expect to see on Black Friday.” Stephanie said.
“Because it is. Well, according to your sons anyway.” Luna commented.
“But you guys made up the Mad King, right?” Deborah asks.
“Nope, he is a real stallion. He’s been king of Kemorovo since the late 70s, I believe.” Atlas said.
“There is no way that a nation is allowing a mentally unwell man to be its king.” Douglas stated.
“It’s true, the ponies of Kemerovo love him, they call him the mad king as a term of endearment.” Apollo said.
“So, the only thing that was made up was that you were stuck in Canada for three years.” Stephanie said.
The brothers nodded.
“Ok, good to know. Luna, sorry for getting a bit sidetracked, we have a lot of questions for our boys.”
“It’s ok, Miss Yukon. It was bound to happen eventually.”
“Just call me, Stephanie. You don’t need to call me, Miss. Since you already know about our family, what is yours like? Do you have a photo of them?”
“Yes, I do.” Luna pulled a small photo out of her breast pocket, unfolded it and handed it to Stephanie.
In the photo was the entire royal family, Atlas and Apollo.
“When was this taken?” Andrew asks.
“During the holiday season. The white mare with the multicolor mane is my older sister, Celestia, the other white mare is my mother and last, but not least the dark blue stallion is my father.” Luna explained. “Just like your family, mine also served in the military. Celestia was the one that was supposed to come here to help with the fighting. But she was not feeling very well and asked me to take her place.”
“That’s unfortunate. She always wanted to see New York.” Atlas commented. He knew what was really going on with the solar monarch, but he promised her to not tell anybody about her ‘condition.’
“Maybe it’s for the best, after all, the city is still a big mess. The next time she has a chance to visit the city, things would be much better.” Andrew said.
“Oh, I almost forgot. Is our interview our interview canceled?” Apollo asks.
“I’m glad you brought that up.” Stephanie asks before putting her cup down on the coffee table. “NBC called earlier to let us know that your interview will be postponed to February 4. Is this ok with you two? Since it is happening in two days.”
“I’m fine with it. Give us one full day to pack up before we have to go back to Equestria for the wedding. And we already know how strict Twilight can be when it comes to staying on schedule.”
“I’ll be right back. I need to call Artemis real quick.”
===•••===
Meanwhile with Artemis, he was in a Dunkin’ Donuts with a few military personnel surrounding a table with a large map. He was about to give his opinions on new plans still proposing when he heard his phone ringing.
He grabbed his phone from his pocket and said. “I will be right back; I need to take this.” Before walking out of the Dunkin’ Donuts.
Artemis: “Hello.”
Atlas: “Hey, Artemis.”
Artemis: “Hey Atlas, is everything all right down south?”
Atlas: “Besides a few terrorist attacks, everything is all right in the city. The New York is recovering from the violence. You should see how lively Brooklyn is right now. How is everything in Connecticut?”
Artemis: "The war effort doing well, the changelings are surrounded in New Haven. They’re either going to die on U.S soil or retreat back to their empire. There are more than likely going to do the ladder. But I have to tell you they really did a number on this state.”
Atlas: "It’s really that bad?”
Artemis: "Yeah, they were really determined to keep this land. Anyway, what are you doing now?”
Atlas: "Me, Apollo and Luna are at the apartment right now.”
Artemis: "Oh God. Atlas, give it to me straight. How did our parents react when they met Luna?”
Atlas: "It’s going very well right now. The moment she introduced herself, they embrace her with open with open arms and they’re fine with Apollo marrying Luna. Same thing with Uncle Douglas and Auntie Deborah. But Luna hasn’t met our entire family yet since Auntie Maya and her family were back home. And grandma Amelia is staying with our British grandparents. Despite that, I think it’s safe to say that our family will approve of our relationships.”
Artemis: "That’s a relief. Is there anything else?”
Atlas: "Yeah, mom told me and Apollo that NBC did not cancel our interview, they postponed it to February 4. Will you able to make it?”
Artemis: "Yeah, at the rate, Connecticut should be free by tomorrow.”
Atlas: "Good. I’ll talk to you later, bye.”
Artemis: "Bye, bye.”
After the call ended, Artemis put his phone back in his pocket and walked back inside of the small coffee shop.
===•••===
Nicholas was in his bedroom, watching YouTube on his phone to pass the time.
Usually, he would be at college right now, but thanks to what was going on in the city he couldn’t go to school for the next few weeks.
To say that he was shocked to find out that his best friends not only had magic, but became royalty of an alien nation was an understatement.
For the first two days of the invasion, he and his family were glued to the TV screen, watching the triplets fighting all over the city.
As much he wanted to confront the triplets about lying to him and their friend group. He understood why they did it.
When he has a chance, he will meet up with them and have a chat with them.
(Translator: ON. Ukrainian to English.)
“Nicholas!”
“Yes, dad?”
“One of the Yukon’s soldiers wants to speak with you!”
“I’m coming.” He replied, confused on what was going on.
After he got downstairs, he saw that his father was standing near the door.
His father is a tall and fit white man with short brown hair. His name is Alexi Donetsk.
Translator: off.
“If anything happens, let me know.” He said in a thick Ukrainian accent as padding him on the shoulder and walking away.
Nicholas opens the door and saw there was a purple Thestral standing outside.
“Can I help you?”
“Are you Mr. Nicholas Donetsk.”
“Yes, who are you?”
“My name is staff Sergeant Lilly Blade of the lunar guard. Emperor consort Apollo wanted me to give you this.” She said, handing him a white envelope that said wedding invitation on its front.
“Thank you. If you don’t mind me asking why did Apollo sent you to give me this?” Nicholas asks.
“Believe me, he really wanted to give this invitation to you in person. But something came up in Manhattan that needed him and his brother’s attention, so he asked me to do it. I’m sorry.”
“It’s all right, I understand. Again, thank you for giving this to me.”
“You’re welcome. I hope you have a nice rest of your day.” Lilly said before turning around and flying away.
‘I wonder if my old suit still fits.’ He thought as he closed the front door.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
Interview of the century.
February 4, 2012 A.D
It was a cold and cloudy day in New York, and right now the Yukon triplets were getting ready for their big interview.
Ever since NBC announced the new time and date for the TV special two days ago the news spread like wildfire across the US and the world.
Social media was no different. Many people on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social platforms were wondering what the triplets will reveal about the aliens and their world.
As expected reporters from other news outlets like CNN and CBS were trying to find one of the triplets and ask them some questions. Especially Artemis, since there were a lot of reporters and upstate New York and in Connecticut.
Luckily for them, the reporters were unable to get close to them. All thanks to the Royal guard.
Speaking of Artemis, he was downstairs in the living room, wearing a gray suit, drinking a cup of peppermint tea and playing on his new phone while waiting for the rest of his family to come downstairs.
He was almost done with his tea when his brothers, his mom and the cousins finally came downstairs. Atlas was wearing a fancy black suit while Apollo was wearing a tan suit. Everyone else was wearing business casual outfits.
“Wow, looking good, Artemis.” Deborah complemented. “Sis, you were right. They really did choose some fancy outfits.”
“Told ya. Our royals have a good taste in fashion. I have a hunch that their entire wardrobe is like this.”
“No, it’s not.” Said Apollo.
“Sure it is.”
“Artemis, where is your dad?” Douglas ask.
“He’s waiting in the truck for us.” Artemis answered.
“In that case, we better get going then.”
“Before we do that, I need to take some pictures.” Stephanie said.
“Do we have enough time for that?” Deborah ask.
“We have time for a few.” Atlas said, as he checked his watch.
“Come on boys, get in front the camera.” Stephanie said as her sons walked in front of her.
“Can I be in the photo?” Patrick asked.
“Of course you can, go right ahead.” Stephanie said before her little nephew walked over to his cousins.
“All right, everyone say cheese.”
“Cheese!” The boys smile before Stephanie took a few photos.
“Now, that is going in the photo album.” She put her phone in her purse before she and her family left the apartment.
As they were getting in the truck, Andrew looked up from his phone and said. “Finally, I thought I had to go back in the house and drag all of you out.”
Stephanie rolled her eyes. “We didn’t take that long.”
He turned to his boys. “Let me guess, photos?”
“Photos.” They answered in unison.
“I knew it. Now, since everyone is seated, let’s get going.” Andrew put the key at the ignition before driving away.
After picking up Barlow and his family, Andrew went across the Brooklyn Bridge to Manhattan. 34 minutes later, they arrived at Rockefeller Center. Where a large crowd of people were waiting, standing behind steel barriers. With a ton of NYPD officers and Royal guard soldiers making sure that everyone in the vicinity was safe.
“All right lads, this is it. We’ll see you inside.”
“Don’t have too much fun without us.” Said Barlow.
“Don’t worry, we won’t.” Atlas replied.
“See you guys later.” Artemis said before closing the door.
After the truck drove away, the triplets entered the lobby of Rockefeller Center. Smiling and waving to the crowd while doing so.
Apollo whistled when he saw the beautiful lobby. “Wow, this place is nice.”
Artemis agreed with Apollo. “If the lobby looks this, I can’t wait what the rest of building looks like.”
“Well, we’re going to find out soon enough.” Atlas said before a light skin Hispanic lady wearing a button up shirt and skirt approached them.
“Hello, your majesty. You three might remember me, but just in case, my name is Maria Rodriguez. I am the executive producer for NBC Nightly News.” She introduced herself before shaking their hands.
“We remember you, you came over to our apartment last week.” Apollo said.
“That is correct.” She smiled. “Is the rest of your family coming?”
“They are, they’re just looking for a parking spot. Is that going to be a problem?”
“No, not at all. They can still get to studio if they sign in at the front desk.” She explained. “Follow me, Mr. Holt has been eager to meet you three.”
After taking the elevator to the fifth floor, The triplets were now on the set of the famous evening news show.
“So this is where the magic happens?” Atlas spoke up.
“That’s right. NBC nightly news has been calling this studio home since the early 70s. But sometimes we do film the show in DC.” Maria explained as she lead them to a door of a private make up room.
“While we are getting ready for the show, you three can stay here.”
“Thanks, Ms. Rodriguez.” Artemis said.
“You’re welcome, your majesty. See you three later.” She answered before walking away.
After she left, the triplets entered the room.
“Look at this! We got our own private room, like Hollywood celebrities.” Apollo said, excitedly. “We even got the fancy mirror with the lightbulbs.”
“Yeah, it is something.” Atlas sat down on one of the couches with Artemis sitting across from him.
“I know, but it’s still hard to believe. We are going to be the most famous triplets in the world, If not already.” Apollo said before they heard a knock at the door.
“I wonder who that can be.” He said as he open the door.
Standing right in front of Apollo was the host of the show himself.
“Hello, your majesty. May I come in?”
“Of course.” Apollo out of the way.
“Oh my gosh, Lester Holt is here.” Atlas said before he snapped out of his shock state. “I mean, what brings you here, Mr. Holt?”
“I came over to say hello the famous Yukon brothers in person. Even though I already know your names, can you guys introduce yourselves so that I won’t mix up one brother for another?”
“Sure thing. My name is Artemis.”
“I’m Apollo.”
“And my name is Atlas.”
“Well it is a pleasure to finally meet you all.”
“Same over here it’s not every day when a famous news reporter we grew up watching wants to interview us. When your executive producer told us that you were eager to meet us, we couldn’t believe it.” Apollo said.
“There’s a reason for that.” Lester said as he sat right next to Atlas. “You three have a very unique story, possibly the most unique in human history. You three went from one of the most infamous missing persons case in the state of New York to saving New York City, Connecticut and New Jersey from an alien attack. You also lived on an alien planet for three years. I’m surprised no other news outlet has tried to interview you yet.”
“That’s because we were keeping our powers, our lives back in Equestria and other things a secret so wouldn’t freak everyone out. We were planning to tell them eventually, and then the changelings attacked.” Atlas explained.
“Understandable. If I was in your shoes, I would’ve done the same. But that’s on the past, now the world is eager to hear your stories.” He said before getting up to leave.
“Well, I have to get going. Again, it was nice finally meeting three, I’ll see you all on set.”
“See you later, Mr. Holt.” Artemis said before the news anchor left the room.
===•••===
“It’s almost time for your big moment. Are you nervous?” Stephanie asked her sons.
“A little bit, but we’ve done this before.” Atlas replied.
“You’re not nervous because we’re here, are you?”
“No, it’s not that. It’s just we’re going to be on national TV in front of all of America. Which is a completely different beast compared to Equestria.” Apollo explained.
“That’s it? Lads, listen to me, you’ll do great. Don’t worry about what the stupid Yanks in this country might say, got it?” Andrew said as his Liverpool accent got stronger with each word.
“Loud and clear.” They said in unison.
“That’s my boys. Now off you go.”
“Break a leg.” Barlow said as the triplets walked on set.
A minute after they took their seats behind the news desk, the Director spoke up.
“NBC nightly news begins in 5,4,3,2,1.”
After the camera started rolling Lester Holt looked up at the camera.
“Good evening, welcome to a special episode of NBC nightly news. Three years ago, three young college students disappeared at Niagara Falls under mysterious circumstances. Because of this, their case caught the nation’s attention as search and rescue teams from the U.S and Canada spend months looking for them. But their efforts were on vain, and an exclusion zone was set up around Niagara Falls to prevent anyone from meeting the same fate.”
“But just last week they came back out of the blue and save us from an alien invasion that could’ve doomed us all. Those same heroes are here with us today. I would like to introduce Atlas, Artemis, and Apollo Yukon. Welcome to the show, gentlemen.”
“Thanks for having us.” The triplets responded.
“Now, as you already know, everyone is very curious about the planet you were on for three years, especially the nation called Equestria. So, the first question of the night is what is life like in Equestria?”
Atlas was the first one to speak. “Equestria is a beautiful and diverse country. The nature is unbelievably beautiful and everyone over there is nice and welcoming.”
“When we first arrived there, everyone was apprehensive of us, which is understandable because we’re aliens to them. But after a while, they treated us like one of their own. But we did get a little bit of fame for a few months because we’re not from their world.” Apollo explained.
“You were famous over there?” Lester ask.
“Yes, we were. We don’t know when exactly it started, but we started noticing our newfound popularity like a few weeks after we arrived in Equestria. It was at the point where we had a section in their newspapers talking about us. We were interviewed and everything. It was a fun but weird time for us.” Artemis spoke. “We even got some letters from some mares asking us out, but we rejected them because one we didn’t know them and two, we had our eyes on other people.”
“And all of this happened in the first few months?”
“Yeah, life is weird.” Atlas answered.
Lester agreed. “That is true, but that’s also what makes it fun.”
“Amen to that.” Apollo commented.
“Since you guys brought up that Equestria is a diverse nation how diverse is it, ethnically wise?”
“It is a very diverse place. There are six different pony tribes that are native to the kingdom. Unicorns, Pegasi, Earth ponies, Sea ponies, Thestrals and Kirins. Each tribe has their own unique language, culture, and special abilities. Despite their differences they get along with each other really well.” Atlas said. “In Canterlot, where me and Apollo live, it’s not uncommon to see signs written in three different languages.”
“And all of the tribes are really interesting.” Apollo spoke up. “Like the Pegasi for example, they control the weather and live in cloud cities.”
“How?” Lester asks, surprised that such a thing was even possible.
“Their magic gives them the ability to touch and walk on clouds. When we told our friends that humans don’t control the weather they were shocked.”
“They were also shocked when we told them that we landed on the moon multiple times and have a moon base.” Artemis commented.
“So no nation on Equis has done any space exploration?” Lester inquired.
“No, some of them did like Equestria and the River Federation for example. But the most they have done so far is a few space walks and launch a few satellites in the past few years.”
“They’re not really that focused on space exploration like humanity is. But the interest is growing.” Atlas added.
“Huh interesting.” The News show host said in thought before speaking again. “Another question that everyone is wondering is how were you and the different creatures of Equis were able to come to earth in the first place? Did they make that portal or is there something else going on?”
“Before we answer that, we just want to let you know that what we’re about to say is going be very hard to believe.” Apollo said.
“Ok.” Lester was getting pretty curious.
“The passage that we came through, was not made by anyone on Equis. It has been around for thousands of years pre-dating every ancient civilization that has ever existed. Its name is Orion‘s passage, it’s an intergalactic tunnel that connected Earth with Equis. That passage is the reason why we have “myths” about Griffons, unicorns, dragons, and other creatures because they were on earth a long time ago. The passage is also the same thing that took us from earth to Equestria.”
“How come they didn’t come to us sooner in the modern day if there was a tunnel connecting us to them? And do you know why the passage took you to Equestria first place?”
“Because it was closed for a really long time and it was eventually forgotten about by both planets. And to answer your second question we weren’t born with powers for no reason.” Atlas paused before continuing.
“A few months after we discovered our powers we were visited by our guardian Angels in a very vivid dream. They told us about Orion, its history with our two planets and they told us why we were born with magic in the first place. They told us that we were destined to reintroduce Earth and Equis.”
“What?” Lester couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Everyone in the studio couldn’t believe it either, except for the triplets family, they already knew.
“We said the exact same when they told us that.” Artemis spoke up. “We couldn’t believe it, but after they explained everything, we understood. They also told us that when Orion opened back up something from Equis will attack the U.S few days after. We asked them why they couldn’t stop it themselves and they said they couldn’t do anything because it was inevitable, and if they tried something much worse would happen.”
“If you knew that an attack was coming, how come you didn’t alert the authorities?”
“Believe me we would’ve. But we didn’t know what was coming and when or where it was going to happen. For all we knew some horrible monster from the late Galactic era would come through that portal and ended up in New Jersey or Pennsylvania. It could have happened when we were coming back to New York. We didn't want to start a panic before invasion started.”
“Before we left for earth, we organized a large army to help us fight whatever we were going to face. Thank goodness it happened when we were in Times Square.” Apollo said.
“Wow that’s a lot to take in. For what it’s worth, I believe you I really do. It’s somewhat explains why the events of the past week happened. But there is a good chance that there’s going to be some skeptics out there.” Lester stated.
“Honestly I don’t blame them. If I heard someone saying the same thing that we were, I would be have a few questions as well. But if they have seen what we have saw over the past three years, I believe that they would change their minds.” Atlas smiled.
“Let not forget that now there is a whole new world out there. What’s more exciting than that?”
===•••===
After more than two hours of being on national television, the triplets’ interview was finally over.
During that time they told the world everything they knew about Equis and the adventures they had. They had some laughs and occasionally shocked some people. It was safe to say that the three Royals had fun.
After they got off the set the triplets walked over to their parents, auntie and uncles.
“You three did great up there.” Stephanie smiled.
“Thanks mom. We had a pretty good time talking with Mr. Holt.” Apollo said.
“See? I told you you’ll do great.” Andrew spoke up.
“So how were you guys doing while we were on set?” Artemis ask.
“We were either watching y’all or taking advantage of the snack bar.” Uncle Barlow answered.
“Oh, our stars are back.” Auntie Maya was coming over to them while a little cousin was following her. “Sorry for not being here when you came back. We were just getting some sodas.”
“I was wondering where you were.” Artemis commented before turning to his cousins. “How you three doing.”
“Good.” They said.
“I’m glad to hear that.”
“So, are we ready to go?” Atlas ask.
“We are, but we’re not going home yet.” Stephanie answered. this confused to triplets and the cousins.
“Where are we going?” Stefan ask.
“We’re going to Chili’s.”
“Really?” Apollo ask.
“Yeah. You didn’t think we would celebrate your big moment now did you?” Uncle Douglas said.
“Not really.”
“Is that the reason why you told us we couldn’t have all the snacks we want?” Patrick asks his mom.
“That’s right. So you could have whatever you want. Well, within reason, of course.” She answered.
“Yay, let’s go.” BJ said trying to run, but his dad picked him up before he got too far.
“I’m happy you’re excited, BJ, but the restaurant going nowhere. Don’t worry, we’ll be there before you know it.” Barlow said as he and the rest of the family walked towards the elevator.
===•••===
Atlas was in northern Manhattan, more specifically the upper West side, oversee the reconstruction efforts in the area.
Ever since it started, ponies from all Entente counties were a great help to their human counterparts. The unicorns and Kirins were using their magic to assist construction workers to repair important infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Pegasi and Thestrals were flying while carrying important materials to areas in need.
And the sea ponies, earth ponies and Zebras were helping out however they can.
It was like if it was only yesterday when the locals had little trust in the ponies at all, now they were getting along with them just fine.
Maybe re-introducing the different species to each other wouldn’t be as hard as Atlas thought.
It was at this moment, when Atlas felt his new iPhone vibrating in his right pocket.
I took it out and saw that he received a text from Tyrone. Which said. ‘Atlas, if you are available, can you please meet me and our friends at Juniors? We need to talk.’
Atlas stared at the screen for what felt like a minute, wondering what his friends wanted to talk to him about.
He wanted to go to see what was up, but he can’t just leave his soldiers alone.
Which is why he grabbed his walkie-talkie and said. “Luna, come in, Luna.”
“This is Luna speaking what’s going on, Atlas?”
Atlas: “Nothing is going on right now. I’m just wondering where you are.”
Luna: “I’m in the area where the Empire State building is located.”
‘Oh thank goodness.’ He thought before responding. “Well since you’re close by, I need you to do me a favor.”
“And that would be?”
Atlas: “Can you watch over my troops in the upper west side for me please? I have something to attend to in Brooklyn.”
Luna: “Sure thing.”
Atlas: “Thanks, Luna.”
“No problem.”
After putting his walkie-talkie back on his belt, Atlas teleported to Juniors.
A few moments after he arrived, Apollo and Artemis appeared as well.
“Atlas? Artemis? What are you doing here?” Apollo asked, surprised that his brothers were also here as well.
“Tyrone texted me that we needed to talk.” Atlas answered.
“I got a similar text from Annie.” Artemis said.
“I got one from Tasha.” Said Apollo.
After they looked at each other for a few seconds they looked at the entrance in front of them.
“What the hell is going on?” Atlas said as they entered the restaurant. After they spotted their friends sitting in a booth, they walked over to them. A few of the patrons were staring at them, but the triplets ignore them.
“Good morning guys, it’s been a little while.” Apollo greeted as he and his brothers did their special handshakes with their friends as they sat down.
“Morning triplets, how are you doing?”
“We’re doing fine. Today has been pretty peaceful.” Artemis answered.
“That’s good to hear.”
“So what do you want to talk to us about?” Artemis ask.
“We want to know why you three were not 100% honest with us?” Tasha said.
‘Oh God, I had a feeling this was going to happen eventually.’ Artemis thought
“You guys don’t know how shocked all of us were for the past week. When you came back to us, we thought that things were finally going to back the way things were before y’all disappeared. Come to find out that the friends we knew since fourth and fifth grade have superhuman powers and part of a royal family of an alien nation.” Tyrone said in a serious tone.
“That’s not even scratching the surface.” Claire spoke up. “Apollo, you send out your royal guards to give us your wedding invitations. I understand that you, Atlas and Artemis were busy protecting the city from God knows what was trying to take us over. But it’s still hurt a little that you didn’t try to deliver us the invites personally later in the day.”
“In your interview yesterday, you told the world about Equestria and the new family and friends you made over there, which is great. I’m happy for you guys, but I wish you would’ve told us that when you first came back.” Nicholas said.
“We have an idea why you didn’t tell us, but we want to hear it from you three. This time, no made up stories and no lies.” Annie stated.
Apollo sighed before putting his hat down on the table. “Sorry for keeping you in the dark for so long. We didn’t mean to hurt all you like this.”
“Yeah, at the time, we felt like it was the best course of action for us because we didn’t want to cause a panic, and we were afraid that everyone would be scared of us.” Atlas said.
“What?” Tyrone said with wide eyes. “Afraid? Artemis, is this true?”
“Unfortunately, it is.”
“Why would you think that your own friends and family would react like that?” Nicholas ask.
“Because we didn’t want to be treated like freaks because we have superpowers. We don’t need that on our conscious while we’re trying to save the world from supremacist ran empires.” Apollo explained. “We thought it would be easier to explain everything after the violence was over.”
“If anyone called the authorities and told them what was going to happen we were afraid that we might get arrested as well. Which would’ve prevented us from saving the world.” Atlas added.
“I went along with it because I didn’t know how everyone would react to me starting a family with a non-human. Sometimes, I couldn’t sleep because of it, even before I came back to Earth. When Apollo and Atlas told me that they brought Luna over to our home, I swear to God I nearly had a fucking heart attack.” Said Artemis.
“How did they react to meeting Luna?” Claire ask.
“They accepted her with open arms and they approved of Artemis’ relationship with Twilight.”
“Stretching the truth still counts as lying, but now I understand why you did it.” Annie commented.
“I agree. I want to let you know that I would never treat you or your families like that.” Tyrone said.
“Same over here.” Tasha reassured them.
“Me and big sis would never do such a thing.” Claire said as Annie nodded her head in agreement.
“I might be a lot of things, but I’m not a hateful degenerate.” Nicholas stated.
“So we’re still friends?” Artemis ask.
“Of course. we knew each other for most of our lives. It would be stupid for us to destroy a friendship that old.” Annie said.
“Next time don’t stretch the truth or lie to us, ok?” Tasha smiled.
“We promise.” Atlas said. “But I have a question though. Why did you guys decide to have this conversations and Juniors of all places?”
“Because this is where we met up last time and we thought we can have some milkshakes and catch up without any bullshit.” Nicholas said.
“I like the way you think, I can go for a milkshake right about now.” Apollo said as he grabbed the menu. As the rest of the table followed suit.
A few minutes later, a waiter came over to their table and asked. “Is everyone ready to order?”
Atlas look as friends before turning back to the waiter. “Yes, yes we are.”
Author's Note
Sorry for taking so long. Life and writers' block got in the way.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
From New York to Canterlot.
February 5 2012 A.D
Somewhere in the vast expanse of the universe, is the heavenly city of Valhalla. A beautiful place that is the closest thing to a utopia.
Located within the city limits is the Valhalla train depot. A place where space trains are stored when they’re not in service.
Walking through the large facility is a cream unicorn stallion with a blonde mane and tail wearing a blue conductor uniform.
A few minutes of walking later, the train conductor entered the area where all the trains were. Some of them were getting routine maintenance while others were not.
It didn't take him long before he found the locomotive he was looking for. A black C-62.
After getting on board the conductor put in a six-digit password which opened up a hidden door where the fire box and the control panel would be located on a normal steam engine. But this was no ordinary, steam locomotive.
He walked into the cylinder shape compartment that took up 1/3 of the boiler. And as expected it was dark.
“G.E, wake up.”
The conductor didn’t have to wait long before all of the lights in the room turned on.
“Good evening, Conductor Enoch. How are you doing?” The locomotive asks in a male sounding voice.
“I’m doing fine, buddy. Remember when central control told you to return to Valhalla after we finish our passenger run in Heaven city?”
“Affirmative.”
“Well, I found out the reason why.” Enoch smiled. “G.E, you’re going to be the first train to go to Earth.”
“…. Is this what you young angels call a joke? Because I don’t like it.” G.E sound unamused.
“No this is not a joke. Mother creation and Queen Gallaxia have requested us to go to Earth to pick up triplets and their loved ones and take them to Equestria. They want to reward them for doing a good job protecting the innocence people of Earth.”
“I can’t believe this.”
This made Enoch chuckle little. He knew the engine would react like this. G.E was way too humble for its own good.
“Come on G.E, you are the famous Galaxy Express, the train of destiny! With a reputation like ours, it’s no wonder that Mother Creation and her daughter would request our services.”
“You are right. When you see Lady Lauren, please tell her that I feel honored.
“I will, good night.” Enoch said before leaving.
After the doors closed, the engine turned itself off for the night.
===•••===
Enoch was standing outside of passenger car number three waiting for the special guests to arrive.
Before he and the Express arrived at the station, he made sure that everything on the train was perfect. Down to the tiniest detail.
The locomotive and the 13 passenger cars were given a good wash to make sure that not a single spec a space dust was on its surface. The interior was also given a thorough cleaning as well.
The train was so spotless, it went beyond the normal 999 standard. Perfect for the journey ahead.
After almost 10 minutes of waiting Lauren Faust finally arrived.
“Lady Faust, good morning.” Enoch greeted.
Good morning.” Lauren replied.
“Do you have your train pass?”
“I sure do.”
After seeing her train pass, the conductor smiled and said. “Welcome aboard the Galaxy Express.”
“Thank you.” Lauren smiled back at him.
“Do you need me to help you with your bags?”
“No thank you, but thanks for offering.”
“All right, if you need anything, the service button is above your head.”
Enoch was about to go to the second car, but then he remember something important. “Your excellency, the engine, the staff and I feel honored that you chose us for this historical journey.”
“I’m glad you feel that way conductor and thank you for accepting my request.” She replied.
Enoch bowed before leaving.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gi9_j94e2xE&pp=ygUaZ2FsYXh5IGV4cHJlc3MgOTk5IHdoaXN0bGU%3D
A few moments later the train blew its mighty whistle before leaving the station. The long passenger train race down the elevated tracks, reaching its top speed before it took off, flying into the sea of stars.
===•••===
It was a cold, sunny day in New York and right now the triplets, their family and friends were being dropped off at Penn Station.
While their friends and some of their relatives came to the station by taxis, Lydia was the one driving the truck. She and her sister are also going to be heading back to Equestria after she drop off her passengers.
"Does everyone have their bags?" Apollo asks.
“I triple checked; we have our suitcases.” Auntie Deborah spoke up.
“We and your grandparents have everything.” Andrew said.
“All right.” Apollo said before closing the truck’s rear doors. He walked towards the front and said.
“You too, Apollo. See you back in Canterlot.” She honked the horn before driving away.
After Luna arrived and the triplets met up with their relatives and friends, the entire group entered the sparsely populated station.
“So, what does Neo look like?” Tyrone asks Artemis.
“Well, it is ten car long train with a large black steam engine in the front. It used to have only eight, but two were added when it was renovated a few weeks ago. And the inside of the train is amazing.”
“I can’t believe we’re actually going to be on a private train.” Claire said as she caught up to Apollo, Tyrone and Artemis. “We’re going to be riding in style! It must be great being a royal.”
“There’s great responsibilities of being a royal as well.” Luna chimed in. “It’s not all glitz and glamour, being the head of state is hard work.”
“I know your majesty.”
It was at this moment when a letter appeared in a cloud of smoke in front of Luna.
“What is that?” Tyrone asks not believing in what he just saw.
“A letter from my grandmother.” Luna said nonchalantly after she opened the scroll. “The train had just arrived; they are at platform number one.”
“The escalator for platform one is right there.” Andrew pointed out after noticing it.
“Oh, so that’s what an escalator is.” Luna said with curiosity.
“We were that close to it? At least we don’t have to walk too far.” Apollo said before everyone rode the escalator down to platform one.
When the triplets saw the train, they stopped in their tracks.
“Artemis, are you seeing what I’m seeing?” Atlas asks in shock.
“The long brown train in front of us? Yes, yes I do.”
“Guys, it looks like we’re going on the Galaxy Express.” Apollo realized before looking at his siblings.
“Heck yeah! We’re going on 999.” Atlas cheered as he and his siblings hi five each other.
“Whoever organized this I want hug them.” Apollo said gleefully.
“Luckily for you she’s on the train right now.” Luna said as she walked over to the siblings.
“Lauren did all of this?” Atlas asks.
“Most of it. She wanted to reward the three of you for what you have done. Mom and I helped out as well.”
Apollo said nothing as he hugged his fiancé.
“I’m glad you like your surprise.” Luna hugged him back.
After they separated the triplets, Stephanie walked over to them and said. “I’m guessing they like their surprise?”
“You knew?!” Artemis ask.
“Well not in the beginning.” She began, as she took her train pass out of her pocket to show her sons. “I asked Luna about the train pass I found in my invitation, and she told me about her little plan. She told all the adults in the family, and we all promised to tell no one else. The only ones that don’t know is your friends, the little cousins and you three.”
“Luna, you’re one sneaky mare.” Said Atlas.
“I have my moments.” The moon empress smiled.
“So how are we going to get on the train if we don’t have passes?” Apollo asks.
“Don’t worry I have them right here.” Luna took three passes out of her purse and handed them out. “Now let’s get on the train before every pony else leaves us behind.”
After they showed the conductor their passes, they were allowed to get on board.
“Finally they are here. What took you so long?”
“Sorry, we were having a little conversation that’s all.” Apollo answered as he said down next to him.
“Grandma, it is good to see you again.” Luna greeted as she hugged the older Alicorn.
“It’s good to see you, Luna. Good to see you too, triplets.” She smiled.
“So, you’re Mother Creation, I’m Stephanie Yukon, but I’m guessing you already know that.”
“Indeed, but still, it’s nice to officially meet you. Me and my family has heard a lot about your family and friends. And please just call me, Lauren.”
“Lauren, thank you for arranging this for us.” Said Atlas.
“You don’t need to thank me. After everything all of you went through, it was the least I can do. After all, what’s a better train to travel on then on the Galaxy Express 999?”
“Galaxy Express? I thought we were on board Neo?” Annie spoke up.
“Nope, Neo is back in Equestria. I didn’t tell you otherwise because I didn’t want any of you to spoil the surprise.” Luna answered.
“Oh, that’s why the number 999 is on our passes.” Tyrone said as he examined his pass.
“So, we’re on a normal passenger train?” Claire said.
“A really luxurious one. But that’s not the best part, this train can go into outer space.” Apollo said excitedly.
“Space?! This train going to outer space?!” Tasha said in shock.
“Yep, that’s why this train is so well known in Equestria.”
“I would be lying if that was the most shocking thing I have heard all week.” Nicholas interjected. “But this is a good opportunity to know what it is like to be a cosmonaut.”
“This train flies into space? This is the best day ever!” Patrick cheered.
“Man, if this is the first day of the trip, I can’t imagine what else we are going to encounter.”
A few moments later, the intercom system turned on.
“Ladies and gentlemen, mares and gentlecolts, this is the locomotive speaking. Welcome aboard the Galaxy Express 999. Our journey will begin in New York City, USA to Canterlot, Equestria. Before the train takes off, everyone must remain in their seats. I hope you enjoy this special and historical journey.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLYFTxgw948
After the announcements ended, all exterior doors closed, and the train blew its whistle before leaving the station.
After exiting the East River Tunnel, the Express increased its speed as it went down the track while everyone on board enjoyed the view of Union City.
A few minutes later the steam engine blew its whistle as it took off. The whistle could be heard from Miles as the train flew higher into the air.
“My God, we’re actually flying.” Barlow said as he looked out the window. “This is insane.”
“New York looks so tiny.” BJ pointed out.
“The takeoff is less rough than I expected.” The conductor overheard Douglas’ comment and decided to walk over to him.
“That’s because the express runs on tracks made out of ethereal magic. Only space trains like the 999 could run of them.”
“There’s more trains like this?” Deborah ask.
Conductor Enoch nodded.
“I’m never going to get used to this.” Douglas said.
“You can say that again.” Amelia stated.
A little while later, train left the Earth's atmosphere.
What its passengers saw took their breath away.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pa3c9aVGIaU&pp=ygUhZ3VzdGF2IGhvbHN0IHNhdHVybiBzaG9ydCB2ZXJzaW9u
Outside of their windows was the curvature of the Earth, with its moon coming into view.
“Wow, I can’t believe what I’m seeing.” Stephanie said, amazed.
“It’s beautiful.” Barlow mumbled. “Andrew is this what you saw every time you went up into space?”
“Yeah. The view never gets old. Which is one of the reasons why I loved my job so much.”
“Man, no one is going to believe us when we come back home.” Nicholas said.
“They will believe us when they see our pictures.”
“I never thought I would see the planet like this again.” Apollo commented. “It is way more beautiful in real life than it was in my dream.”
“I had a hunch that you would say something like that.” Lauren walked right next to Apollo before continuing. “Your guardian angels told me how blown away you and your siblings saw planet Earth in all of its glory.”
“I still remember every second of that dream.” He said. “Tell me, Lauren. How do they feel about our best efforts to protect Earth?”
“Words cannot describe how proud they are.” She said sincerely.
Hearing this made Apollo smile. “What happens now?”
“I think that’s a question your guardian angels should answer. Don’t worry, you’ll see them real soon.”
“All right.”
A few minutes later, the entrance to passage opened up and the train entered the tunnel at high speeds. Confusing most of its passengers.
“What happened?” Grandpa Edward asked. “We were just looking at Earth.”
“Where are we?” Said Maya.
“This is Orion‘s passage.” Luna answered.
“This is Orion?!” Tyrone said in shock. “This place is amazing.”
“So this is the intergalactic shortcut.” Andrew commented. “Hm, I know NASA is going to spend all of its time studying this place.”
“Forget NASA, militaries from around the world are going to be interested in this place. Especially with this new war on our hands.” Barlow looked out the window as he crossed his arms. “It’s sad that a place like this might become a battlefield soon.”
“I assure you, Barlow, a major battle is going not going to happen in here. Unless they are going or leaving from the same place, it’s rare to encounter other travelers. And even if two enemy convoy encounter each other, the fighting will be pretty short lived. The passage is made to help creatures get from one planet to another, not become one big war zone.” Lauren explained.
“So no matter what it will be safe for people to travel through here.” Barlow inquired.
“Precisely.” She retorted.
“Well, that’s a relief.” Maya commented.
“Hey Artemis, remember when you told us that humans and other creatures walked and sailed through the tunnel?” Tasha ask.
“Yes, why?”
“I’m just checking if it will be safe to open a window to get a better look at the passage.”
“I don’t think that would be a good idea. We don’t know if the train will be going back to space.” Artemis replied. “But the conductor will know. Speaking of which, where is the conductor?”
“He’s in the fourth train car.” Apollo said from the back.
“Thanks. I will be right back.” Artemis said to Tasha before he walks away.
He entered the fourth train car, which was a really nice bar. Behind the counter was the conductor pouring himself a drink.
“Conductor?” Artemis said, getting the unicorns attention.
“Oh, hello your majesty, I didn’t see you there.” Then he realized the little predicament he might be in. He put the bottle down before saying. “This fruit punch has no alcohol, if you’re wondering.”
“Ok? Conductor I want to ask you if it’s safe to open up the windows? I don’t want to open them up only for the train to end up in outer space again.”
“We are not going back out into outer space; the train is going to come out the passage near Canterlot’s airspace. It will be a bit windy but will be safe. Otherwise, the windows would’ve been locked.”
“All right, thanks.” Artemis said before teleporting away. “Good news, it’s safe for us to open them.” He announced as he sat down.
“Great.” Tasha opens up her window and immediately felt a nice cool breeze. “Guys, the air out here is wonderful.”
Curious, Atlas opened his window. “Wow, you’re right.” He leaned on the windowsill, enjoying the view and sound of the locomotive. Then he noticed that the train was running on silver tracks. ‘Huh, now that’s interesting.’ Atlas thought.
“This place is unbelievable.” Nicholas commented, getting Atlas’ attention.
“Yeah, it is.” He agreed.
“Atlas, after everyone is settled in can you show us around your castle?”
“Of course, it’s the least I can do. If I don’t, you or the others will get lost, and I would have to send in a search party to find you.” Atlas amuse.
“Whatever you say, your majesty.” Nicholas rolled his eyes. “Thanks.”
“Anytime.” They gave each other fist bump.
It was at this moment when a portal opened up and the locomotive blew its whistle before going through.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFajLM_QV4Q&pp=ygUTZ29yZ2VvdXMgYW5kIGd1aWx0eQ%3D%3D
Nicholas shields his eyes from the blinding daylight. After his eyes adjusted, he looked at the ground below which was full of mountains, forests, and plains. Covered in white, fluffy snow.
“Is this Equestria?” He asks.
“It is, welcome to my home.”
The express train flew through air and going through low lying clouds while giving its passengers spectacular views of the landscape. But thanks to the weather outside they had to close the windows to keep all the cold air out.
After passing by Cloudsdale, the train descend and landed safely on the rails. Continuing its journey to Canterlot on the ground. Encountering a few commuter trains and bullet trains along the way.
After going up the mountain through tunnels and going over bridges the Galaxy Express arrived in the kingdom’s capital. A loud screeching noise could be heard as the train stopped at the station.
The exterior doors opened soon after, allowing the triplets’ family and friends to disembark. But they thank the conductor for his services before doing so.
“Thank you for the wonderful trip, conductor.”
Enoch smiled and said. “Thank you very much your excellency. I hope you enjoy your vacation.”
“I will. Have a safe trip through the stars.” She said before rejoining her group and leaving the platform.
“This is so weird. I could see every color in the rainbow in here.” Annie said, seeing all the different color ponies in the station.
“Well we are in fairytale land.” Douglas responded. “I mean, have you seen some of the trains in the station? They look like they came from a children’s coloring book.”
“Why don’t you like the trains? I think they’re nice.” B.J said as he enjoyed lollipop he got from the train.
“I’m not saying I don’t like them. It’s just it’s going to take some time getting used to seeing whimsical things like that.”
“If there’s one thing, I’m not going to get used to is people staring at us.” Stephanie mentioned, after noticing a good number of ponies staring at them.
“Stephanie, they’re just curious. It likely that they have never seen humans before, let alone entire family.” Luna reassured.
“I get that, but they could be more discreet about it. New York gets tourists from all over the globe, and you don’t see me staring at them.” Stephanie responded.
“Don’t worry mom, we won’t encounter anything weirder than this.” Atlas said.
“Oh yes, we will.” Apollo chuckled. “Every day is going to be one big culture shock for all of you.”
“You don’t have to tell me and Barlow that.” Maya chimed in as they exit the building.
“So, when are we going to get picked up?” Andrew asks.
“They should be here any minute now.” Apollo said as he checked his watch.
A little while later, the half-track and its almost identical twin arrived.
“You really do have two trucks. How come one of them have tracks?” Douglas ask Atlas.
“So it can handle all sorts of terrains. It was my idea.”
“Good afternoon, every pony.” Otto greeted as he approached the family with Cyclone following behind.
“Cyclone, Otto, it’s so good to see you both again.”
“It’s good to see you too, Artemis. Welcome home.” Cyclone said before ending it.
“Family, this is Specialist Otto Von Strike and this is Lieutenant Cyclone Winds, we knew them more almost 3 years at this point. Guys, this is my family and friends from Earth.”
“It’s nice to meet you both.” Stephanie smiled.
“Likewise. It’s nice to meet somepony that we only seen in photos.” Otto said.
“Did you all have a nice trip to Equestria?” Cyclone ask.
“We did.” Luna answered.
“It was mind blowing.” Tyrone said.
“Artemis, should we go straight to the castle or go more scenic route?” Otto ask.
“Let’s show them around before we go home.”
All of a sudden, they heard a loud whistle echo across the area. They looked up to their the left and saw the Galaxy Express flying into the sky.
“I was wondering when that train was going to leave.” Lauren commented.
“So that’s the Galaxy Express?” Cyclone ask.
“The one and only.” Apollo answered.
“Honestly, I never thought I would see the famous 999 in person.” Said Otto, as the space train disappeared through the clouds. “Anyway, leave your suitcases and other bags with us and get inside the trucks. Will handle the heavy lifting.”
“Oh, thank you very much.” Andrew said.
“How kind of them.” Sarah said to Edward.
After everyone was seated, and all the luggage was put away, the two trucks finally left the station.
===•••===
After spending an hour driving around the ancient capital, the two vehicles arrived at their final destination.
After the castle staff collected their guest's luggage, Cyclone and Otto lead them into the Castle. Most of them were looking around with wonder.
“Ooooh. This place is fancy!” Grandma Amelia exclaimed. “I don’t know what I was expecting, but this place has to be much nicer than the White House.” She turned to her eldest grandsons and said. “Babies, you three really hit the jackpot.”
“Yeah, we’re really lucky.” Atlas stated, a little amuse by his grandma‘s antics.
“Grandma, we’re not gold diggers.” Artemis said.
“I know because I would’ve never allowed that to happen. All I’m saying is that you’re extremely lucky to end up here. If James was still around, he would’ve tried to move.” She chuckled a little.
“That sounds like dad all right.” Deborah spoke.
“When can we have some fun? I want to explore this place.” Stefan said.
“After we meet our new family members, then we can explore a castle.” Deborah said to her nephew.
A few minutes later, the group finally arrived at the Castle’s throne room.
One the large double doors open the triplets saw that the main six, Spike the Royal sisters, Nebula, and Galaxia were there waiting for them.
“Hey, every pony, we’re back!” Apollo yelled.
“Welcome back, partners.” Applejack greeted.
“Glad to have you all back.” Spike gave Apollo high five.
Suddenly, Artemis was surrounded by Twilight’s magic, and she dragged into her arms.
“I was so worried; I am so glad you’re back.” She said quietly.
“I missed you too, Twi.” Artemis said, giving her kissing her on forehead.
“Awwww, look at the little colts.” Pinky bounces over to the little cousins and picked up B.J “I have a feeling we’re going to be great friends.”
“Your hair is like cotton candy.” BJ laughed.
“Little sister, how was your time in America?”
“It was good. The locals were cautious at first, but after a while they were pretty friendly. Which is understandable, after what they went through. But I have to tell you that New York is a really interesting place. You should visit after everything goes back to normal over there.”
“I’ll consider it.”
“How is it going here?” Luna ask.
“Let’s just say that it was one stressful week for every pony. Despite that we were somewhat distracted, thanks to your upcoming wedding.”
“Speaking of my wedding.” Luna began, taking a glance at her sister’s bloated belly. “Have you been a little busy trying some of the dishes?”
“Only a few starters. What are you trying to say, Lulu?” Celestia pretended to be offended.
“Save some of the desserts for the guest, please.”
“I am. You should be thanking me for handling some of the preparations for your big day while you were gone.” She answered.
“Whatever you say, sis.”
Moment later, Stephanie walked over to them.
“Likewise, Miss Yukon.” Celestia greeted her warmly.
“Please, just call me Stephanie. After all, you’re already married to one of my sons.”
“Sorry, I was just trying to be polite.”
“It’s all right, I appreciate it though. But I should be taking this time to thank the both of you.”
“For what?” Luna asked curiously.
“For everything you have done for the triplets. These past three years were the most difficult times me and my family has ever went through. It was hard doing our daily routine was a massive hole in our hearts, but somehow me and Andrew managed. But when our sons came back to us, we were overjoyed, I never thought I would be so happy again. When they told us that you two were the reasons why they still here, we almost couldn’t believe it.”
This is when she was starting to get emotional.
“Celestia, Luna, you could’ve taken advantage of them or left them on the streets to fend for themselves, but instead you took them in, gave them fulfilling careers and made them the happiest young men in the world.” She said before a few tears down her cheeks. “Thank you, ladies. Thank you for everything you have done for them.”
“It was no problem, Stephanie.” Celestia said before pulling her mother-in-law into a hug to comfort her.
“I know we just met, but you don’t know how happy I am that two generous people are joining the family.”
Hearing this almost made Celestia get emotional herself.
After Stephanie ended the hug and dried her eyes, she finally noticed that Artemis standing near her. With his wife accompanying him.
“Mom, there’s someone that wanted to meet you for a while now.”
“Hello, Miss Yukon. It’s nice to meet you.” She said nervously.
Without saying a word, Stephanie pulled twilight into a hug, catching the princess of friendship off guard.
“Just call me, Stephanie.”
Hearing those words made Twilight smile.
After everyone got acquainted with each other, they accidentally stayed in the throne room longer than they attended since they were having a nice time together.
When Pinky looked up at the clock and saw that 20 minutes had passed, she got out of the small crown and yelled. “Every pony, I know we’re having a fun time together. But it’s time for a surprise I have prepared for our new friends. You are all invited to the ‘welcome to Equestria party’!"
She went to the hallway and came back with her party cannon.
“Oh crap.” Apollo said before Pinky fired her canon, spraying confetti and streamers everywhere.
“Follow me, every pony.” She said before bouncing out of the throne room.
“Where in the hell did she get a cannon from?” Tasha said in shock.
“Who knows, that’s just Pinky, being Pinky. She has her moments, but she really means well. Now come on, darling. We have a party to get to.”
“Oh, what the heck.” Tasha said before following unicorn.
===•••===
In the solar wing of the castle, Deborah was in her son‘s bedroom, making sure that he was comfortable in his bed.
“Mom, why do I have to go to bed now? I’m not tired.” The little six-year-old complained.
“You don’t know it yet, but you’re going to be really soon. We had a really busy day today. We rode on a train that flew through the stars, had a great time at Pinkie Pie's party and we explored the castle.”
“But I don’t want the fun to end yet.”
“I know, but luckily for you we’re going be here for the next five days. Giving you plenty of time to have fun in this new world.”
“You promise?” He asked.
“I promise. Now it’s time for you to get some sleep, young man.”
“Wait, where’s Mickey?” Patrick wonder as he looked around his bed.
“Oh right, I know where he is.” Deborah got up and walked over to her son‘s suitcase. She retrieved a small Mickey plushy and handed it to her son.
“Comfy?”
“Yes, Mom.”
“Good.” She kissed him on the cheek before getting up.
“Good night, my little butterball.”
“Good night.”
After that, his mom turns off the lights and close the door. The only thing illuminating the room was a small night light.
Moments later, Patrick fell asleep, drifting off to dreamland.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
February 8, 1012 A.G
It was a beautiful sunny, but cold day in Canterlot, and right now a really special event was about to happen at the castle.
In the ballroom, family, and friends were gathered to see the wedding of Apollo Titan Yukon and Luna Nova Faust.
While they wait for the ceremony to begin, the bride was in a nearby room. Getting ready for her and her soon to be husband’s big moment.
“I can’t believe that this day is already here. To think I would be more ready for a day like this.”
“Darling, it ok. It’s normal to be nervous before your wedding.” Rarity said.
“I agree. Remember Celestia’s wedding last year? She was so nervous before the ceremony.” Fleur de lis chimed in.
“Honestly, I never thought I would see Auntie like that. It’s sweet in a way.” Cadence commented before turning to her sister-in-law. “Surprisingly, you were almost calm as a cucumber. How did you do it?”
“It was actually pretty easy. I pretended it was just me and Artemis.” Twilight answered.
“It was that simple?” Luna ask.
Twilight nodded. “I was a bit uneasy before the ceremony, but the moment I saw him all the butterflies just went away.”
“I hope it will be easy for me as it was for you. I really don’t want to make a fool of myself in front of Apollo‘s parents.”
“Don’t worry, Luna. After the ceremony is over and the party begins, you’ll be wondering why you were nervous in the first place.” Fleur reassured her with a smile.
“The only thing you need to worry about is having fun.” Cadence added.
“Too bad you and Apollo had to cancel your honeymoon thanks to this war. Such a shame.”
“Fleur!” Rarity said in disbelief.
“It’s fine, Rarity. I got over that fact a long time ago.” Luna said with a little smile. “It would’ve been in bad taste if we have went on our honeymoon while the kingdom is at war. Besides, with Earth in the picture, there’s so many other places we can choose to go after everything settle down.”
“That’s one way to look at it.” Twilight commented before Rarity was done doing Luna‘s mane.
“Empress Luna, I am finally finished with your mane style.” She said before turning Luna’s seat around so she can see herself in the mirror. “What do you think?”
Luna was speechless. Her mane was in a beautiful braided manestyle with a long ponytail that was also braided. Her makeup was immaculate, and the beautiful sparkling white dress was the cherry on top.
She looks like the most beautiful bride in Canterlot.
“By the moon, I look so beautiful.” She said before turning to the fashionista. “Rarity, thank you so much.”
“You’re welcome, darling.”
A few moments later, some pony knocked on the door.
“It’s open.” Cadence announced, the door opened revealing Celestia, wearing an indigo bridesmaids dress. “Is every pony ready? Apollo already on the altar.”
“We are.” Twilight answered.
After Luna got up from her seat and picked up her bouquet, she and her bridesmaids left the room. Where her father was waiting. When he saw his little filly all dressed up he couldn’t believe his eyes.
“Well Luna, this is it, we will talk to you after the ceremony.” Cadence said.
“My little sister is going to get married! I’m so happy for you, Lulu.” Celestia hugged Luna tightly.
“Thanks, Celestia.” Luna said before ending the hug.
After that, Celestia and the rest of the bridesmaids went into the ballroom and close the large door behind them.
This was when Nebula approached Luna.
“Thank you.” Luna blushed. “Rarity did a very good job with the dress and everything.” Then she noticed her father‘s eyes were watery.
“Dad, are you crying?”
“No…..ok I am.” His voice cracked before he got a tissue from his pocket and wiped his eyes. “I thought I would be ready for this, but it looks like I’m not. Even though you’ve been a grown mare for a long time now, I still see you as a cute, curious little filly.”
“Awww, Dad. Don’t worry, I am still your little filly.” She said as she hugged her father.
“I know, I know.” He said, pulling himself together before they separated. He looked at his daughter with loving eyes and said. “Even though you inherited my coat and mane. You look just like your mom on her wedding day.”
Luna was touched by Nebula’s words. “Dad let’s save this for later. I don’t want to ruin my makeup.”
“Oh, my apologies.”
After she calm down she walked to her father side and held his left arm.
“You’re ready?” He asked.
Luna nodded.
“Gentlecolts, open the doors, please.”
The guard stallions nodded and slowly open the ballroom doors.
When the music started playing, they began to walk down the aisle with the CMC dropping flower petals in their path.
As she walked past all of the guests, she took Twilight’s advice and focused on Apollo. That’s when she noticed him look at her with a surprise look, then a smile appeared on his face. Luna smiled back at her fiancé.
Finally, after Luna let go her father she walked up onto the altar and stood cross from her beloved.
“Fillies and gentlecolts!” Galaxia announced. “Today we are here to celebrate the union between Luna Nova Faust, and Apollo Titan Yukon. These two lovebirds met after a life changing event, becoming good friends and eventually falling in love. Now we will witness these two individuals pledge their love and their loyalty to each other.”
Galaxia turn to Apollo and ask. “Apollo, do you take Luna as your loving wife? Through the good times and the bad, sickness and health until death do us part?”
“I do.”
Then Galaxia turn to her daughter. “Luna, will you take Apollo as your loving husband? Through the good times and the bad, sickness and health until death do us part?”
“I do, I really do.”
“May we have the rings, please?” Gallaxia ask. Spike walked up to the altar and presented the red pillow that the rings were on.
After putting the rings on their fingers, Galaxia announced to the crowd. “Now I pronounce you, husband and wife. You may kiss the bride.”
Luna immediately grabs Apollo by the collar and pulled him into a kiss. Which surprised him at first before he reciprocated as the crowd cheered.
===•••===
After the speeches were done and Nebula and Luna had their father daughter dance, the wedding party was now in full swing.
As the guests were having fun on the dance floor or chatting with one another. The newlyweds were at their table enjoying their slices of wedding cake. When a familiar sea pony veteran came over to them with three little toddlers following him.
“Hey kiddo.”
“Grandpa Icon.” Apollo got up from his chair to greet the elder stallion. “It’s good to see you again.”
“You too, congratulations on your wedding.” He smiled.
“Thank you.”
“Uncle!” Adrian, Aegean and Caspian yelled before running towards him.
Apollo knee down to their level so they can hug their uncle. “Hello you little guys, it’s been a while.”
After the one year-olds let him go, Apollo got up and turned to his wife. “Luna this is Icon Breeze. Icon, you know who she is.”
“Hello, your majesty. It’s Nice to meet you.” Icon said with a salute.
“Likewise, Admiral.” Luna greeted. “I heard a lot about you from the triplets and a few history books. You did a lot during the frozen war, thank you for your service.”
“You don’t need to thank me, Empress. I was just doing my duty.”
“Please just call me, Luna. Since I am now officially an aunt to your grandsons.” Luna said as she picks up little Caspian.
This surprised the elder seapony. “That is going to be hard to get used to, but I’ll try my best.”
“I haven’t seen these three since December and they already grown so much. But they still look adorable in their tuxedos.” He said after picking up little Adrian.
“Yep, that’s what foals do best, you better enjoy it while last. Because pretty soon they’ll be learning how to dive deep into the ocean.”
“Don’t worry I’ll be enjoying their company while they’re here.” Apollo responded, tickling the baby in his arms, make him laugh. “How come they’re not with Harmony and Sanddune?”
“I volunteered to look after them while they have some alone time. The last time I saw them, they were talking to some of your friends from New York. And speaking of foals, I have something to ask you.”
“Sure, what is it?” Apollo ask before Icon leaned over and whispered. “When are you going to make Mira and Harmony aunts?”
“Icon?!”
Seeing Apollo‘s flustered and shocked face made the old veteran laugh. “I’m just pulling your tail, young stallion. Oh by the rough seas that was worth it.” He wiped a tear from his eye.
“My grandparents did the same thing, except they were serious about it.” Apollo commented.
“Dammit they beat me to it. Well, better late than ever.” Icon padded Apollo on the back. In his point of view anyway.
To Apollo, it felt like someone knocked the air out of him. Sometimes the old sailor forgets that not every pony is built like him.
Meanwhile, with Luna couldn’t help but chuckle seeing the two stallions interacting with each other.
===•••===
While Apollo and Icon were catching up, Stephanie on the other side of the ballroom as she got to know Ponyville‘s favorite mailmare.
“Your husband is a scientist too?” Stephanie ask.
“And inventor. Sometimes I have to go down to our basement because he gets a bit too carried away with his work.” Derpy said.
“That sounds like my Andrew all right. Sometimes he can’t get his head out of the clouds, in his case outer space.”
“I have a feeling that Time turner and your husband will get along pretty well.” Derpy said before taking a sip of her wine.
“Turner? I thought his last name was Hooves just like yours.”
“It is. His full name is Time Turner-Hooves, he took on my last name after we got married. Which I thought was very sweet of him.” Derpy explained before smiling. “He could’ve chosen any pony else to fall in love with, but he chose me.”
“Aww, that so sweet. Things like that is the reason why life is so great, the most unexpected things could happen to you.”
“I couldn’t agree more.” Derpy said before another pony came up to them.
“Derpy, there you are. I was looking all over for you.” Bonbon said.
“Sorry Bonbon, I was talking to Stephanie, she’s Apollo‘s mom.”
“Oh, so you’re the mother of the groom.” The earth pony said to the older human before putting her hand out for a handshake. “Hi, my name is Bonbon.”
“Stephanie Yukon. You’re one of Apollo’s friends?”
“Not really, I am more of an acquaintance. But I am good friends with Artemis since he lives down the road from me and my family. Me and Lyra much about you and your family from him.”
“Is Lyra the same girl that was asking my sons a ton of weird questions when they were famous?”
“Yes, that was her. My wife means no harm, she was really curious about them. But as that trend gained more popularity things got a little out of control. But after we got to know them better, she stopped asking them those questions.”
“You two are married?” Stephanie ask.
“We are, our anniversary is in April. And also I want to apologize on the behalf of Lyra for making your sons a little uncomfortable.” Bonbon said.
“It’s all right. Just like you ponies, humans are weird as well. When me, Andrew and my sister first met Luna, we asked her all sorts of things. I’m pretty sure we talked her ear off.” She chuckled at the memory. “Derpy, what are you a part of that trend as well?”
“Not really, I was a little curious in the beginning, but when Twilight told me about them, I realized it was just the same as every pony else. Except they were from another world.” Derpy said.
A few moments later, Bonbon‘s daughter, Twist, approach her mother and said. “Mom, Lyra is asking some of the humans a ton of questions.”
Bonbon couldn’t help but let out a sigh. “Ladies, I’ll be right back. I have a spouse to deal with.” She said before walking away with her daughter.
===•••===
Luna was nearby the food and drink table chatting and laughing with Cadence and Fleur, when Celestia came over them.
“Excuse me, Luna. Can I talk to you in private? I have some important to share with you.”
“Ahm, sure.” Luna said before she turned back to her friends. “Girls, I will be right back.”
“We will be here when you get back.” Fleur commented.
After the Royal sisters left the ballroom and Celestia close the door behind them, Luna looked at elder sister and ask. “Ok, Celestia. What did you want to tell me?”
“Remember when I was supposed to go to New York, but I wasn’t feeling good, so you took my place instead?”
“I do, why?”
“Well, there is a reason for that. Luna, I’m pregnant, you’re going to be an aunt.” She smiled.
“You’re not joking, are you?” Luna said in shock.
“I’m not.”
“Tia, I’m so happy for you!” Luna screamed excitedly, before hugging Celestia tightly. “How far along are you?”
“Almost a month.” Celestia said after they separated.
“Almost a month?! Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”
“I was, but I realized that your wedding was coming up and I didn’t want to steal your spotlight. So the very night I told Atlas about my pregnancy on our last date. I made him promise that he will not tell any pony about it.” Celestia explained.
“Not even our parents?” Luna ask.
“I didn’t tell them either. You know they would be spreading the news like their life depends on it.”
“Wow, you were really serious about keeping this a secret.” Luna commented. “Celestia, I get what you were trying to do and I appreciate it. But when it comes to news like this, tell me immediately.” Luna stated.
“But your wedding day got better because of it, right?” Celestia ask.
“Did it, really did. I thought that becoming an aunt to Twilight and Cadence’s foals was exciting, but finding out that you are having one as well, makes it even better. Thank you.”
“You’re welcome. When you come back from the front lines, please return the favor.”
Luna rolled her eyes. “I’ll think about it. Come on let’s get back to the party. Every pony must be wondering where we are.”
“Agreed.” Celestia nodded before they went back into the ballroom.
===•••===
After partying for the entire afternoon, the wedding party was finally over. Most of the guests either went back to their hotels or home.
While the ballroom was being cleaned up, Yukon triplets were heading over to the castle gym to meet with Galaxia. She didn’t give them a reason why she wanted to meet them there, only that it was something really important.
After they arrived at the gym, they look for her until they found the white Alicorn in the martial arts area.
“We’re here. Did we take too long?” Atlas ask.
“Not at all.”
“So what do you want talk to us about, a new training regimen or something?” Artemis ask.
“No, it’s not that. The reason why I gather you all here is because you three have earned to have your own celestial bodies for everything you have done. And I don’t mean any random planet or star. I’m talking about the ones where your powers came from.” Galaxia explained.
The triplets with stared at her with wide eyes.
“You’re serious?!” Apollo said in shock. “We’re going to have the same once we saw in our dreams?”
Galaxia nodded before she used her magic to show three holograms of celestial bodies.
The one on the left is a large orange and gold galaxy that is shaped like a circle, the one in the middle is a blue planet with rings and a large moon and the one on the right is comet.
Galaxia move the hologram of the galaxy closer to Atlas and said. “Atlas this is the Golden Ring galaxy, it is 5.8 million light years away from our own.”
“I’m guessing it’s called the golden ring because it looks like a ring?” Atlas ask.
“Precisely, it’s a pretty unique galaxy if you ask me.” She said before turning to Apollo and moving the hologram of the blue planet closer to him.
“Apollo, this is planet Vesta, and its moon is called Azul. These two resign in the same solar system as Equis does.”
“Oh, so that’s why they look so familiar when I saw them. It’s kind of embarrassing that I didn’t connect the dots sooner.” Apollo said, scratching the back of his head.
Then Galaxia looked at Artemis. “Now before I show you your celestial body, I need to let you know that the one where you got your powers from does not exist anymore. It burned up in the Earth’s atmosphere thousands of years ago.”
“Oh.” Artemis said, he was slightly disappointed. “I’m not surprised. That’s what shooting stars do best. So, is that my replacement for it?” He pointed at the image.
“No, it’s not replacement. All I did was look for where your magic originated from, and it led me to this comet as the source. But this is no ordinary comet, this is Haley‘s comet.”
“Haley‘s comet?!” Artemis said in shock. “My magic came from the most famous rock in Earth’s solar system.”
“I knew you’ll be happy with my findings.” Gallaxia said before making the images disappear. “Now since you’ve been re-introduced to them, are you ready to be linked with them?”
“Yes, we are.” They said in unison.
Galaxia nodded before lighting her horn in her golden aura and developing the triplets in her magic.
Then she cast a spell, causing the magic surrounding them to change colors.
A few moments later, Galaxia free them from her magical grasp. Only for them to feel a strong surge of power flowing through them. They never felt anything like this.
After what felt like forever, which in reality was only 10 seconds, the weird feeling stopped.
“Wow, that was intense.” Atlas said, rubbing his eyes before noticing that his brothers were in their empowered forms.
Apollo’s hair was now blue and silver, his eyes were also blue with his pupils looking like a planet with rings and a moon.
Artemis hair was also completely different. Instead of being black as normal, it was magenta with a dark red stripe. His eyes were also magenta, and his pupils look like a shooting star.
“Hey guys, it looks like our new possessions did a number on us.” Atlas mentioned.
“Huh, you’re right.” Artemis responded as he looked at himself by using the camera on his phone. “But that spell was something else.”
“You can say that again, I feel so powerful!” Apollo said.
“Now you know what it feels like to have the power of the cosmos. And I know you are itching to test out your new strength. So how about we use some of the equipment in here before we leave?” Galaxia suggested.
The triplets looked at each other for a second before nodding.
“Sure, sounds like fun.” Atlas smiled.
===•••===
Atlas was lying down on the large comfy bed in the bed chambers, he shared with his wife. They were talking to each other before they called it a night.
“We really had an interesting day, didn’t we?”
“Definitely.” Celestia agreed. “I never thought my mom would pick me up in a hug and twirl me around when she found out that we were going to be parents. And now you control the same universe where your powers came from.”
“Yeah, but I’m glad that my eyes and hair went back to normal on their own.”
“How come? I think you look pretty cool when you’re in your final form.” Celestia responded.
“I know, but I also like my normal hair and eye color though.”
“Fair enough.”
“Since I have all this magic at my disposal, I wonder if I could beat you in a fight just using our powers.” Atlas said.
Celestia put her hand on her chest, and gasp dramatically. “Oh my. You already want to fight me, your own wife. You are bad man.”
“Oh please.” Atlas pulled Celestia closer to him before continuing. “You wanted to test out my strength when I first got my powers. You’re no better than me.”
“And that’s why I married you.” Celestia said before giving Atlas a kiss on the forehead. “But let’s have that match after our foal is born.”
“It could be more than one.”
“You know what I mean.” Celestia rolled her eyes. “Agreed?”
“Agreed.” Atlas answered before yawning. “Maybe we should call it a night. We do have another long day.”
“You’re right. Good night, Atlas.” Celestia said before rolling over on her left side.
“Good night.”
As Celestia got herself comfy, Atlas hugged her from behind as expected. What she didn’t expect was that he put his hand on her stomach it started rubbing it.
This made her smile, as she fell asleep.
===•••===
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkGALUCgEw0&pp=ygUZbGEgcGV0aXRlIGZpbGxlIGRlIGxhIG1lcg%3D%3D
Atlas opened his eyes to see that he wasn’t in his bed chambers anymore. Instead, he was in a big, beautiful garden with a full moon lighting the night sky. He can see a serene lake in the distance, reflecting the moonlight.
“Wow, this is beautiful.” He said to himself.
“Hey Atlas!”
Atlas turned around to see Apollo running towards him.
“Apollo, what are you doing my dream?”
“I should be asking you the same thing. I thought I was the only one here.” Apollo said before he noticed his brother‘s eyes were different. “Atlas, your celestial body is in your eyes.”
“The same thing with your eyes as well.” Atlas reply.
“Oh, you guys are here.” Artemis commented as he walked to his siblings from a different path. “I thought I was all by myself.”
“Same.” Atlas and Apollo said.
“Guys, your eyes."
“We know.”
“Let me guess, my eyes are different as well.” Artemis commented.
Atlas, and Apollo nodded.
“This is weird. We’re in a very peaceful dream, we’re all together and our pupils are different.” Artemis said in thought. “The only time this happened was when-“
“We first met.” Said a familiar male voice that they haven’t heard in a long time.
Apollo and Atlas turned around to see Augustus Athens, and Margaret. Their guardian angels.
“Oh my God.” Apollo said in disbelief.
“It’s so good to see you all in person!” Margaret said excitedly as she hugged Atlas. “Words cannot describe how proud we are. You did a wonderful job defending Earth.”
“We know. Lauren told us.” Atlas said after they ended the hug. “You know I was wondering when you guys would appear.”
“Sorry about that. We were trying to make the best dream we can come and meet up.” Athens responded.
“Well, it’s worth the wait. You guys did a good job.” Artemis commented.
“Thank you, it was my idea.” Augustus smiled.
“Athens, is that a new suit?” Apollo ask, after realizing he was wearing a silver suit instead of the red one from the last time they met.
“It is. I’m glad you noticed.” The bearded man said proudly. “I got it before you guys left earth, and I decided to wear to this dream. Matches perfectly with the moon.”
“Speaking of moons.” Margaret spoke. “Congratulations on getting your new interstellar possessions. You know what this means right?”
“More responsibilities?” Atlas asks.
“Exactly. But you three already know that, so I’m not going bored you with the details. We’re here to have some fun, right boys?”
“That’s right.” Augustus answered. “There’s this nice area of the garden near the lake you need to see.” He said before the triplets and the angels started walking through the garden.
===•••===
Apollo was standing outside of the doors of the throne room, waiting for the ceremony to begin.
He was wearing a light blue royal uniform that was almost identical to his siblings' uniforms, with his planet and moon “cutie mark” was on his left arm.
After waiting for a few minutes, the guards open the doors, allowing Apollo to enter.
Just like his siblings' coronations, family, friends, foreign dignitaries, and the press was here. The only difference is that his parents were here to see this special and historic event.
After he sat down on Luna’s throne. Chancellor Shukshin approached him and presented the ancient scroll of the Equestrian constitution.
Apollo put his left hand on it and raised his right.
“Emperor consort, Apollo Titan Yukon. Do you swear to lead the United Kingdom of Equestria with dignity and honor?”
“I do.”
“Do you swear to protect your subjects' rights and liberties?”
“I do.”
“Do you swear to protect the United Kingdom of Equestria to the best of your abilities, even if it cost you your life?”
“I do.”
After that, the chancellor put the scroll down, picked up the new crown and placed it on Apollo‘s head.
Shukshin turned around and announced. “I proudly present to the world, Emperor Apollo of the United Kingdom of Equestria. All hail the new Emperor, all hail Equestria!”
This made the crowd cheering for the new monarch.
The now Emperor Apollo made his way to the balcony that overlooked the castle courtyard. Where thousands of ponies were there. As he waved to the crowd, the famous supersonic airliner, Astra, flew overhead with the wonderbolts flying alongside it.
===•••===
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UByYawNwsrk&pp=ygUJa29pMTAwM2pw
It was a busy afternoon at Canterlot station, the platforms were full of ponies, arriving and leaving the city. But some of the ponies that were leaving weren’t civilians, they were soldiers going to the north to fight the changelings.
Two of them were Luna and Mapleleaf. They were saying their goodbyes to their friends and family before they got on board the double-decker bullet train right behind them.
The white, gold and blue train in question was called the Horizon Express. This long 11 car train was full of military personnel of all branches. Waiting for the train to leave.
“Well, today is the day.” Mapleleaf said, caring her duffel bag on her back. “Time really does fly when you’re having fun.”
“I know, cousin. Don’t fall out of line when Zeya is around.” The older, dark red Kirin said with a smirk.
“Don’t worry, I already know how scary she can be when she is ready. You be careful on the southern front.” Mapleleaf said before turning to the red Pegasus right next to her elder cousin. “You too, Blaze.”
“Of course, Maple.” He answered.
“Luna, you got everything you need, right?” Stephanie ask.
"Yes, I do."
“Good, good. See you when this conflict is over.”
“You too, Stephanie.” Luna said before turning to her older sister and father. “Celestia, dad, do you promised that you’ll send me letters whenever you can?”
“We promised, Lulu. And I’ll send you photos as well.” Celestia answered.
“We expect the same thing from you as well.” Nebula said.
“I promise do not leave any of your letters unanswered.”
“Good, filly.” Nebula padded his daughter on the shoulder.
“Stay safe, Luna.” Apollo said.
“You too, Apollo. Be careful when we you're on deployment.”
“You know I will.” Apollo smiled.
Announcement speakers: “The Horizon express on platform one is going to leave in a few moments.”
“That’s us.” Luna said as she picked up her bags with her magic. “Bye every pony.”
“Auf wiedersehen!” Maple leaf said before following Luna.
“Goodbye, we will miss you!” Gallaxia yelled to Luna and Mapleleaf.
After they got on board, the doors closed, and the train honked its horn. Other families that were saying goodbye to their loved ones m, waved at the train as it left the station.
The Royal 3: Orion’s passage
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rhzSWTwYG0&pp=ygUJZWRlbHdlaXNz
Located on the northern part of the continent of Zebrica, is a big nation home to 127 million ponies. This is the National Republic of Livonia, the ancient cradle of the Kirin tribe.
After the country was defeated at the end of the great war in 947, the Livonia monarchy was abolished, and it was replaced with parliamentary republic.
After the war, Livonia did pretty well. The republic stayed neutral during the frozen war, which gave the nation great opportunities to trade with both sides of the steel curtain. It also helped that it’s geographical location was near major shipping routes between east and west.
Because of this Livonia quickly became one of the richest nations in Zebrica, rivaling other powerful Zebrican nations like Abyssinia and Stellaria.
Sadly, this era of peace and prosperity didn’t last forever.
When the River Socialist Federation fell in 991, some of its remaining allies went down with it. Thanks to the anarchy that was happening in the east, nations like the Delta Kingdom gradually stop sending their cargo ships on some of Livonia‘s most profitable trade routes. Out of fear that they would be attacked by warlords or pirates.
Thanks to this lack of trade from its most profitable customers and allies, the Livonia economy stagnated in 995.
This gave an extremist group known as the National Livonian Front the excuse to take over the country in a violent coup in 998 that nearly became a civil war.
And thus, the National Republic was born.
===•••===
Within the capital and the most populated city in the country, stands the largest dome building in the world. A building so large that it would even make the Equestrian Senate look small in comparison.
This is the 300 year-old, Vinland hall. A beloved historical landmark, and a marvel of Livonian engineering.
In front of the legislative building, thousands of soldier standing at attention accompanied by a few divisions of military vehicles. There was also a large crown of civilians there as well, standing behind the large columns of soldiers.
They were here to listen to the speeches from various political leaders of the nation and the party.
And eventually, he did.
He is a bright red Kirin with a brown mane and tail, wearing a black uniform. This is Herman Redwood, the Chancellor of Livonia and the most powerful stallion in the country.
The moment he walked up to the podium and did an open palm salute, every kirin saluted him back.
Herman couldn’t help but smile a little, seeing even the youngest of Kirins being as still as a soldiers.
After he put his arm down, the crowd follow suit.
(Translator:ON)
“Citizens of this great country. As you already know, the war against the techno-progressive world order is finally here. A chance for us to not only bring glory to our beloved homeland, but to bring the Kirin tribe to its right full place in the world. We already made great progress across this continent, but now it’s time for the rest of us to play their part in this war.” He said before looking at one of the many cameras present.
“My fellow kirins across the world, I know you are sick and tired of living in these countries that don’t care about you or your heritage. They make it obviously clear that they want us to conform to their ways of life, instead of keeping ours. And now they want us to welcome those apes aliens into our world!” Herman slammed his fist into the podium, making a small dent in the wood.
“Instead of bowing down to these leaders don’t care about any of us, rise up. Rise up and join our struggle! Together, we will be able to take down every communist, tribal traitor and every pony else that wants to stop us! The world will learn why we are a proud member of the draconic family! They will learn that the future will be ours and ours ALONE!” He said passionately, as the crowd cheered.
===•••===
After the political rally was over, Herman is now in his office dealing with paperwork that comes with running a country. Occasionally, his secretary would come into his office and pick up the papers that he was done with.
His office was pretty big and luxurious. His desk, the wooden panels on the walls and the bookshelves were made out of the finest wood the Livonian rainforests had to offer. His furniture carpet was just as nice, handpicked by Herman himself.
After he finish writing his signature on another important document, he heard a knock on his door.
‘Hmm, that was quick.’ He thought.
“Come in, Gretel.” He said in Lavonian kirish with a noticeable Equestrian accent. The Livonian dialect of Kirish is petty similar to Norwegian.
The door open, but the Kirin that was now in his office was not his secretary.
The stallion in question has green fur coat and a red mane and tail, wearing a brown uniform. This is Albert Moss, vice chancellor and one of the few Kirins in the government that Herman would consider a good friend. Since they’ve been through a lot together ever since Herman came to Livonia 16 years ago.
“Albert.” Herman said as he put his pencil down and got up from behind his desk. “What a surprise. I thought you were still busy at Vinland Hall.”
“I was, but I just finished a long meeting with the head of the N.I.B. I had enough time to come over here and tell you some good news.”
“Oh? What is it?” Herman said, intrigued.
“Your speech earlier today had the attend effect that we hope for. We got reports that there are protest and mutinies happening around the world, led by our supporters. Especially on the continent of Griffonia. They’re small for now, but it’s only a matter of time before our brothers and sisters start rioting.”
“Any news from Equestria?”
Albert shook his head. “Radio silence. Will give them more time to respond, but it looks like we have to liberate the Equestrian kirins on our own.”
“I would be lying if I said I was surprised by that.” Herman commented. “How is everything going on the western front?”
“Really well actually. Baltican military is on the brink of collapse and we’re a few miles away from their capital. Pretty soon, Baltica will be ours and all Kirins on the zebrican continent will be united under our banner.”
“Good.” Herman answered before looking out his large window. Enjoying the view of the city made out of concrete, steel, glass and marble.
On top of the nearby government buildings, blood red flags with a menacing looking eagle spreading its wings, flew proudly in the wind.
“Look how much things have changed.” Herman smiled. “We were once a ragtag group of radicals, and now we are going to be the masters of the world. Isn’t it exciting?”
“It is.” Albert responded as he stood next to his friend. “Almost 14 years of work is about to pay off and this march will be the six year anniversary of us becoming leaders of this great country. Honestly, I don’t know why so many opposed us when our party first took power.”
“Fear, and I don’t blame them. It’s scary trying to create a new world. But thanks to us showing them that the lesser pony tribes are not as strong as they seem, our enemies all over the world are the ones who are afraid of us.”
“As our ancestors would have wanted.” Albert spoke.
“I couldn’t have put it any better.” The chancellor responded before Albert looked at his pocket watch.
“Oh, look at the time, I have to get going. It was nice chatting with you.” He said as he put his watch back in his pocket.
“You too.” Herman saluted him.
Albert saluted back before leaving the office.
===•••===
Herman was now in his private library, reading a good book after a long day of work.
He often looked forward to time to unwind in the peace and quiet. After all, creating an empire that would make the ancient Kirin and dragons proud, wasn’t easy.
Before he can turn the page, he heard a knock on the door.
He sighed. He specifically told every pony that he didn’t want to be disturbed for the next 40 minutes.
“Come in.”
After hearing this, the door opened, revealing a light cream color kirin but a dark brown mane and tail, who was carrying a cream-colored folder. This is Gretel, Herman’s secretary.
“Gretel, you know it’s after hours, right?” He said as he closed his book and placed it on the table right next to him.
“I’m sorry, my chancellor. But Mrs. Rockwell wants me to give you this mission file to approve.” She said as she handed the folder to him.
The Chancellor looked at Gretel, confused. “I remember telling Citrine I gave her the power to approve any mission she sees fit when this war began. Why does she want me to look at it?”
“Because according to her, these are really high-risk missions.”
“All right, thanks.” He answered.
Gretel nodded before leaving the library.
Herman looked at the folder, which had the word top secret in big red letters.
“Let’s see what Mrs. Rockwell wants.” He said before opening up the folder and saw that it was a mission to assassinate ponies who pose a major threat to war effort in New Mareland.
“Galaxia Star Faust. General, Erickson leaf. Field Marshall, Solar storm. Master Sergeant, Firefly Sequoia-“
He blinked. “Did I read that right?” He picked up the paper the name was on and read it again.
“Firefly Sequoia.”
He did. There was only one pony he knew with that first name. He couldn’t believe it; his only foal was in the Equestrian military.
Herman hasn’t seen her in almost 16 long years. But he could still clearly remember her being a wonderful, fun loving filly. Always getting into all sorts of shenanigans when she was playing pretend.
He never thought she would join the Equestrian army.
So many questions was on his mind. If this is really his daughter, how did she become a master sergeant so young? And why was her last name not Redwood-Sequoia? Did his ex-wife had something to do with change her name?
Herman closed the folder and got up from his chair. He knew a pony that would have the answers.
===•••===
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWwac_uTdJE&pp=ygUgamltIGFuZCBqb2UgYW5hbG9nIHRlY2ggYWxsaWFuY2U%3D
Within the shadow of Vinland Hall, is the headquarters for the National Intelligence Bureau, or N.I.B for short. And inside of the building, its chief director was taking her time packing up her briefcase before clocking out for the day. While listening to some music on her radio.
The Kirin mare has a jet-black coat and a yellow mane and tail, wearing a black suit. Her left cheek has a scar she got from a mission back when she was an agent before the coup. Her name is Citrine Rockwell.
“It looks like I have everything.” She said to herself before closing her briefcase. “I wonder what me and Gunter should have tonight. Hmm, maybe he’ll have some ideas.”
Then she heard a knock on her door. "I hope that’s not one of the younger agents. Who is it?”
“It’s me, Citrine.”
She was surprised when she heard who it was.
When Herman entered her office, Citrine greeted him with an open palm salute. “Your excellency, I didn’t expect you to come here at this hour.” She put her arm down.
“Sorry, but there’s something important I need to discuss with you.”
Citrine sat down behind her desk, as her chancellor sat in front. “Sure, what do you want to talk about?”
“I was looking over this mission file you sent me and I want to know if you have an Intel on Firefly Sequoia?”
“What don’t I have on her? She’s been a pain in our flanks ever since we try to take over that human city.” Citrine replied as she retrieved a folder from her desk with her magic, and handed it to Herman.
He opened the folder and couldn’t believe his eyes. On the top right corner of the paper was photo of Firefly. Wearing a camo uniform while holding a spear in her right hand.
“Oh my God, it's really her.” He said quietly. “My daughter is all grown up.”
“That’s your daughter? The same Firefly you told me about?” Citrine asks in shock. “I thought it was a coincidence.”
“I thought so too, that’s why I came here to confirm.”
“Now that I think about it, you two do resemble each other.” Citrine commented.
“She looks more like her mom than she does to me.” He said before gripping his page in anger.
“Stupid mare. Instead of seeing the truth and come with me to Livonia, she divorce me instead. Preventing me from seeing our daughter. Thanks to her and both of our families, haven’t seen her in 16 years. It’s kind of hard to believe that she’s going to be 26 this year.”
Being a mother herself, Citrine couldn’t help but sympathize with her superior. “I’m truly sorry that you missed seeing your daughter growing up. I really mean it.”
“Thank you, I appreciate it.” Herman said before reading. He spent a few minutes looking over the paperwork and, in that time, he had learned so much about Firefly.
Like after she graduate from high school, she joined the equestrian army. Become the youngest, and most decorated soldier in the army. Thanks to her heroism on the battlefield and work ethic.
Reading about all of her accomplishments, made Herman very proud, but also a bit sad that she was fighting to protect a kingdom that made her tribe weak in the first place.
After he closed the folder and placed it right next to the top-secret mission folder. “Citrine, I approve of the mission file you sent to me, but I also want to suggest another one.”
“I'm all ears.”
“I want you to send our best spies to New Mareland to find Firefly and try to make her join our ranks. No matter how high the price may be. A promotion, government positions, very generous pension and benefits. Anything to make her join our cause.”
This took Citrine by surprise. This wasn’t the first time she had spies go and try to convince kirins to defect. But usually, defectors were given a good salary and benefits, not promotions and positions in government.
“May I speak, Chancellor?”
Herman nodded.
“With all due respect, the things you’re willing to give your daughter is way too much. This is the definition of nepotism.”
“It’s not nepotism if the pony question is highly qualified!” He jabbed his finger into the folder. “What these papers have told me is that she has the capabilities to help us win this war. She is the definition of a model Kirin, a model for a future generations to look up to. It would make sense that she will be promised all the things I have mentioned.”
She was about to say something else to reject this ridiculous plan, but Herman’s dark brown eyes glared into her bright yellow ones. Making her think twice.
“All right Chancellor, it will be done. But you know what will happen if she rejects our offer.”
“I know, but she is a smart pony. She will make the right choice.” He said before getting up from his seat. “I hope you have a wonderful night.”
After that, Herman left her office, leaving Citrine alone.
She let out a long sigh as she turned on her radio and picked up a few pieces of paper with her magic.
It looks like she has another hour of work to do.
