Mercenaries Of The Shadow

Chapters

Meet the crew
Just like old times
Calm before the Storm
The Fortress
Vacation
Hazed mind
Awakening
Having a Ball
Rulers of Equestria
Double Cross

Meet the crew

Mercenaries Of The Shadow

"Sister, I bring unfortunate news regarding the elements of harmony." Luna says as she runs into the throne room. Celestia sat on her throne resting her head in her hand with a look of despair. Celestia looked at Luna for a brief moment before closing her eyes again.

"What is it Luna?" She said flatly.

"Chrysalis has captured them, they tried to retrieve the elements but were ambushed before they could."

"Where are Cadence and Shining Armor?" She asked still not looking up.

"Well... im not sure what happened to them, they just disappeared." Celestia rose off her throne and approached the window to assess the damage that has been dealt to Canterlot. building have been set ablaze, bodies lie all over the streets, ponies have been taken hostage, and a large battalion is approaching the castle.

"Luna, I have and idea but this needs your entire attention and for you to leave here. This may be our only chance to defeat Chrysalis and save Equestria. Do you remember the team you secretly created without my permission?" Luna thought for a moment and nodded "You must find them, they may be able to defeat chrysalis."

"But sister, I do not think this a very good..."

"DAMNIT LUNA, DO YOU NOT CARE FOR OUR SUBJECTS AND THEIR SAFTY?" Luna backed away slightly before lowering her head.

"I will do what I can 'Tia." Luna kept her head down as Celestia approached her and held her in a tight hug.

"Be safe Luna, I will guard the palace while you are gone." Celestia gave a quick kiss on her fore head and backed away. Luna looked up at Celestia who was walking towards the door.

"Don't worry sis', I will return with help." Luna thought about where she was going, she could see the alley behind a bar, and a pony being shoved out through the back door. She kept spiritual connection with this one pony in case she needed him. She focused her magic and in an instant she vanished.

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"All right buddy, you've had enough." A bouncer said as he escorted somepony out back.

"Fuck you man, I'll tell you when I've had enough." The pony said stumbling trying to stand up straight as the bouncer closed the door. He was a midnight blue pegasus with a plain black mane wearing a thin pinstripe black jacket over a plain black shirt with a red tie tucked in, he had black fedora with an image of a skull on the left side, he had plain black dress pants and dress shoes. "Do you know who the hell I am? I'm mother fucking..."

"Morbis Soul." A pony said stepping out of the shadows, she wore a dark black cloak with a hood that hid her face "And my word, who in the world taught you to speak like that?" Morbis stumbled his way toward the pony "Is that what you've been doing these past years, drinking away your hard earned money?" Morbis collapsed next to a dumpster and began to vomit, 'how charming'.

"Pretty much. How do you know who I am, are you spying on me?" He asked looking up at her before he continued emptying the contents of his stomach.

"No, I've just been keeping track of you. Equestria need your help, along with the rest of your team." Morbis turned his head quickly facing her. He stood up almost flawlessly.

"I don't know what your talking about, but you better leave that subject alone or else." He said as he drew out an S&W 500 magnum from his jacket and aimed it at her.

"Morbis its fine." Her cloak faded away into bats "It's me, Luna." Morbis dropped his gun and quickly got down on one knee bowing to her.

"Please forgive me princess Luna." Luna giggled at his behavior.

"It's alright Morbis, there is no need for formal behavior, but we do need your assistance." She said as she went from an entertained expression to completely serious.

"You know I would be ready to give my life for you, but if you remember my squad has been disengaged for about five years now." Luna chuckled and pulled out a scroll "Whats this?" Morbis grabbed the scroll and unrolled it.

"I was prepared for you to say that, but if you read the fine print which you missed when you signed this." He cleared his throat and began to read.

"By signing this form your squad will be disengaged and will not be given missions unless either princess gives direct orders for your team to assemble when war is in effect."

Fucking fine print "So im guessing your calling us to arms?" She nodded with a smile. He tucked the scroll in his jacket, put his feet together leaving a forty five degree angle in between, he made a fist with his right hand and laid it across his chest making a light thud sound, and placed his left arm down at his side "Captain Morbis Soul, Squad leader of M.O.T.S. reporting for duty." Luna smiled at how ready he was for orders, and the fact that she is making progress.

=====================================================================

Luna and Morbis approached a large factory set up in the outskirts of Manehatten "Who is here?" Luna asked getting a sigh from Morbis.

"Starlight, If you don't remember he was our sniper, could shoot somepony from two miles away right in the eye." They entered the factory and began looking around. It seemed empty but there was signs of recent activity such as warm machinery. "HEY STARLIGHT, WHERE THE HELL ARE YO...." Morbis was cut off when a knife impaling into his shoulder making him fall. He pulled the knife out and threw it on the ground "Did I mention he's a damn good knife thrower?"

"Come any closer and the next one goes right in your eye!" Starlight yelled from somewhere in the factory. Morbis stood up and began looking around.

"Come on Starlight, It's me Morbis, we got a job so get your pansy ass over here!" Starlight dropped down from the rafters landing ten feet away from them holding a combat knife. He was a black earth pony with a white hair on his neck in the form of a star and had black hair with a white stripe on the left side. He wore blue overalls which were the uniform for the workers, he wore a baseball cap backwards and had tan boots.

"How can we have a job when your dumb ass ended our team?" He asked staring at him with narrowed eyes. Morbis handed him the form and pointed out the fine print. you could tell he refrained from leaping with joy, he handed the form back and crossed his arms "Why should I do anything for you, you split the team up, and Is there even a war happening?"

"Then do it for me." Luna said as she stepped forward out of the shadows and removing her cloak. Starlight dropped down to his hands and knees lowering his head. "And yes a war is coming."

"Princess Luna, please accept my apologies, I did know." Luna knelt down in front of him and placed her hands on his shoulders.

"It's fine, but we do need you and the rest of the team."

He nodded "I will only help under one condition. I get my rifle back." Luna nodded. He stood up and did the same motion Morbis did when he agreed to help "Starlight, sniper of M.O.T.S. reporting for duty." Luna smiled pleased with her progress.

"So where to?" Morbis asked Starlight.

"I know a team member is in Las Pegasus, but I don't have a car or anything to get there."

"That is fine, I will be teleporting us." Luna spoke up.

"Are you sure you can teleport us all around?"

"I can for a short while, but it will stress my body and mind after a few times."

"So who will we find here?" Luna asked Starlight as they approached a casino in Las Pegasus.

"Shade." He replied flatly

"Oh. My. God this is going to end awesomely." Morbis said way to thrilled getting a glare from Starlight. Luna looked at them with a questioning look "Starlight and Shade used to date for a while after our team ended and he fucked up badly."

"What did he do?"

"Trust me, you do not want to know." They entered the casino and headed for the back room after an employee told them where to find her.

"Will it be safe?" Luna asked as we entered the room.

"Well at first she may be a bit..." Starlight was cut off when a scythe with a half circle blade with what looked like smoke but was actually shadows emitting from it impaled in to the wall only centimeters in front of him "...hostile."

"You got a lot of balls showing your face 'round here starlight, to bad your about to lose em." Shade said flipping out her butterfly knife. She was wearing a tux like uniform that the people who work at the game tables usually wear. She was a dark purple unicorn with a navy blue mane that draped over one of her eyes.

"Easy there shade, we just want to tell you something that may interest you." Starlight said nervously while holding his hands in front of him.

"And what may that be?" Shade asked crossing her arms and narrowing her eyes at him. Morbis pulled the form from his jacket and handed it to her. She skimmed over it and handed it back. "So your having us go to war?" She asked looking at Luna who gave her a nod "Give me one good reason why I should do this." Morbis thought about a good reason to convince her. He remembered the first time they met, she was hired to kill him, her main motive was money since she used to be an assassin.

"The pay is good." Shade quickly looked at him with wide eyes.

"Give me my gun and we got a deal."

"Why the hell do you need your gun, you can make weapons with your magic." Morbis said.

"Only melee weapons, remember?" Shade said putting emphasis on the 'remember'. "Just give me my gun and we got a deal." Luna nodded and smiled. Shade rolled her eyes and went through the motions "Lieutenant Shade, team strategist for M.O.T.S. reporting for duty."

"Have you stayed in contact with anyone else?" Morbis asked. Shade thought for a moment.

"Two people to be exact, they work together."

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They all walked along an edge inside of the infamous Ghastly Gorge. "If im correct they should be here somewhere." Shade said keep her voice low to avoid avalanches.

"Someone mind telling me why they would be here?!" Starlight yelled getting Shade to punch him in his mouth making him shut up.

"Do you want to get us killed?" She asked in a stern voice. Starlight shook his head quickly getting Luna and Morbis chuckle. A rock about the size of an average male hand landed next to them causing them to jump and look up.

"Were here because of the resources this gorge offers." The pony from above yelled. Because of the suns position, all that was visible was his silhouette "Here, take hold of this." He said as he tossed the end of a rope down. one by one they climbed up the side of the gorge.

"Don't you realize you could have killed yourselves by yelling like that?" They all looked towards a tent a saw a cyan earth pony with a black mane with an eye patch and a few scars on his face sitting a lawn chair drinking a beer. He wore a white shirt with a light blue denim jacket, tan cargo pant and dark brown work boots.

"Scorch, is that you?" Shade asked walking closer. He nodded and took a drink. "You look... different." He shrugged and got up and walked towards her.

"Tends to happen when you've been to hell and back, literally." he had an unamused look on his face showing he remembered exactly what happened. Shade found herself laying on the ground. It happened so quickly, Scorch roundhouse kicked her out of no where getting a shocked expression from Luna. Luna looked at the group and noticed something odd, they just stood there with vacant faces watching Scorch and Shade. Luna felt as if she had to do something, she raised her and a faint blue aura formed around her hand. Just as she was about to encase them in a telekinesis spell, her wrist was grabbed from a pony behind her. She looked back and saw a very vacant yet familiar face.

"Don't stop them, this is how we handle issues between each other." It was scary that she looked almost just like luna when the elements returned her to normal. The only difference was that she didn't have a horn, her mane was a few shades darker and it was long and straight. Luna quickly wrapped her in a tight hug.

"Blitz, I thought you were..."

"Dead?" Blitz finished the sentence. Luna cringed slightly at the word, the thought of Blitz, let alone anybody part of M.O.T.S. troubled her. Blitz returned the gesture "Its fine Mam', I'm alive and well." Luna thought back to the day during the attack on the royal wedding Luna left to assemble the team.

Their main objective was clear the way for the Twilight and her friends so they could obtain the elements of harmony. Everything went well with Starlight giving cover fire from a tower, Morbis giving suppressive fire as Blitz made her way to the room with Shade assisting her with her scythe. Scorch stayed with the royal guards in the town assisting them. They would have been able to finish their mission if Blitz didn't burst through the door so carelessly. She kicked the door in and was about to fire the standard issue Glock 17, but someone with a sniper rifle inside was quicker to the draw. A bullet tore through her right side grazing her heart and exited out her left side. Her body went limp and she collapsed. She laid there in agonizing pain as blood leaked out of both bullet holes.
Shade rushed over to her and put up a protective barrier to shield them from the onslaught of bullet directed at them. "We need to leave now!" Shade yelled into her ear piece while looking down at her friend who was slightly twitching from the pain, she gripping on Shades sleeve tightly and coughing up blood. Shade looked around and saw several changeling soldiers approaching "Hang on Blitz, were getting out of here." Shade whispered into her ear as she held her close. In a split second they teleported to the edge of the everfree forest "Come in team, this lieutenant Shade, sergeant Blitz is in critical condition. Our location is the edge of the everfree forest near a small town, over." Shade waited a few seconds until there was a response.

"This is captain Morbis Soul, M.O.T.S. rendezvous to lieutenant Shades position, over and out."

Luna was snapped out of the memory by hearing Morbis telling Shade and Scorch to stop fighting.

"You both have fought enough, and we're wasting precious time." Shade and Scorch looked at each other and nodded. "Scorch, do you have a vehicle of some sort, Luna's getting a little exhausted from teleporting us around." Scorch motioned them to follow him, he brought them around back of the tent as walked up to a garage. He unlocked the latches and opened the door to reveal a military humvee.

"My baby, there you are." Shade said as she ran up to it and began hugging and stroking it. She looked up and noticed something that bothered her "Where the fuck is the turret?"

"I work a civilian job, I can't show up to work with a turret attached to my vehicle." Shade turned around and glared daggers at him.

"That doesn't answer my question. Where is my gun?" She said through gritted teeth as she stared him down.

"I-I sold it." Her eyes went wide as platters when she heard him. A shadow stretched towards him and grasped his ankle lifting him into the air.

"You got ten seconds to tell me who you sold it to."

"It's no use, I sold it to a chop shop." Scorch was instantly sent flying out of the garage by the shadow tentacle. Shade started to approach him until she was held in place by something.

"We have wasted enough time, where is the last member?" Luna asked as she held Shade in a telekinetic grasp.

"Last I heard, Haze was in the Badlands fighting for money." Scorch said climbing to his feet. Luna picked up everyone and put them in the humvee putting Shade in the drivers seat with Starlight next to her and put herself with the others in back.

"Lets get a move on." Luna said with a hint of anger in her voice. Shade put the pedal to the metal and began driving towards the Badlands.

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As they drove down a windy path leading up a huge rock formation they noticed a poorly built fort made of sheet metal, wooden planks and other miscellaneous materials. "What is this place?" Blitz asked.

"It used to be a base for a resistance about one hundred or so years ago, but now its used as a fighting ring where people from all over come and place bets and watch people get shit beat out of them until they forfeit or die." Shade said getting looks from everyone. "what, I used to come here every once in a while." They pulled up to the gate and noticed two minotaurs guarding the gate. "So whats the plan?" Shade asked. They all looked at her.

"Aren't you allowed to just go in there?" Scorch asked.

"Well....it's kinda frowned upon to tear a judge in half because of what they thought of the fight."

"Great now we'll never get in." Shade thought for a moment.

"Alright, watch this." She climbed out of the vehicle and walked up to a Minotaur. "Well hello there big guy, how 'bout you let my friends my friends and I inside and I'll make it worth while." she said as she stroked his chest with her finger.

"No can do Mam, I know for a fact your not allowed to enter." The guard replied.

"well how about this." She grabbed his neck and pulled him close so she could whisper in his ear. "If you don't let us in, I'll blow your dick off with this here gun." He looked down and saw a magnum pointed at his groin. "So, do we have a deal?" He whimpered and nodded. She let him go and motioned for the group to follow.

Morbis patted her shoulder as he walked next to her. "A woman's charm eh?"

"you know it captain."

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As they entered the fort, the sound of silence was broken by cheers and jeers from the battle arena. They walked to the stands and looked down at the arena and noticed a certain pony in combat, Haze was standing in front of another pony who was covered in scars and bruises. "DO YOU WANT A SHOW!?" Haze yelled presenting a broad sword to the crowd causing them all to cheer. He grabbed the pony by his mane and pushed him up against the wall. With one swing of his sword the ponies stomach was sliced open. The laceration began spraying blood on the ground and on Haze. Haze gave a psychotic smile as he reached inside and began tearing out his organs making screams of pain emit from the dying pony. He tore out a length of intestine and through it into the stands.

"This shit really fucked his mind up." Morbis whispered to Starlight. After Haze left the arena they followed him into the barracks.

"Hey Haze!" Haze turned around and saw all of his old team mates and Luna and glared.

"What the hell do you guys want." Haze was a turquois unicorn with black hair on his chest making what looks like claw marks and a grey mane. He wore only a pair of urban camouflage cargo pants still stained in blood.

"My friend we're going to war and your coming with whether you like it or not." Starlight said while smiling getting Haze to narrow his eyes at him.

"No." Haze said flatly as he turned around and climbed into his cot.

"Why the fuck not?" Shade asked "We get to kill as many sons of bitches as we want, whats not to love about that?" Haze rolled over and looked at her.

"Im done with all this war bullshit, if you guys want to go get killed like what almost happened to Blitz over there." He said pointing at Blitz. "Then be my guest, but I for one am not getting killed on a battle field." He sat up and motioned to the surroundings. "This is my home, my battlefield, and the people love me so its gonna take a lot to make me leave."

"Fine, if I kick your ass, you come with us." Morbis said making everyone look at him.

"Alright deal, how 'bout right now?" Haze said getting out of his cot.

"Your on."

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Luna and the team, excluding Morbis and Haze, sat in the stands to watch the fight. Morbis and Haze stood at opposite ends of the arena staring each other down. There was no one but them in the arena.

"Ready to get your ass kicked little man?" Haze asked while cracking his knuckles.

"Nope, you ready to get beat into a bloody pulp?" Morbis asked while rolling his shoulders trying to loosen up.

"Not at all."

They waited for Shade to ring the bell to start the fight. At the sound of the bell Morbis and Haze rushed at each other. Morbis tried a spin kick only to be dodged by Haze stepping to side and thrusting his palm impacting on Morbis' stomach causing him to get knocked back making him fall. Morbis rolled and recovered just as Haze jumped and was about to punch. He rolled out of the way and swept his legs just as he landed. Haze thrusted himself up with his hands and ran at Morbis. Haze began attacking with an onslaught of kicks and punches only for all of them to be dodged or blocked. Haze charged his magic and blasted him straight into the far wall. Morbis lounged to the side just as Haze kicked the spot right where his groin was. "What ever happened to a good old friendly match eh?" He asked sarcastically. Haze chuckled and rushed at him with his magic charged. Morbis braced himself for the impact and waited. Before he could block, Haze used his magic to dash at him and thrusted up sending Morbis into the sky. Haze focused his magic and used it to launch himself into the air next to him.

"I win!" He said said with an evil smile as he slammed the heel of his foot square on his chest sending him straight at the ground. As Morbis flew towards the ground, Haze followed suit. As soon as Morbis collided with the ground Haze landed on top of him with his feet on either side of him with a fist right at his throat. "Despite the fact you lost, you wont last a second without me." They both chuckled as Haze pulled him up. "Come on, lets get Shade to fix you up." As Haze turned around, he was struck in the chest by a tentacle made of shadows sending him into the wall. The tentacle quickly wrapped around his neck and dragged him back.

"What the fuck is your problem Haze, you think you can just kick our captains ass and get away with it like nothing happened?"

"Shade its alright, he's on board with us." Morbis said as he stumbled towards them holding his chest. "He said he will help us."

"Oh." Shade released her grip and dropped him on the ground. "Sorry I strangled you."

"Its all good, I had it coming." Haze said between coughs and gasps for air. He stood up and looked at Luna and very sloppily went through the movements. "Second lieutenant Haze, Combat specialist of M.O.T.S. reporting for duty Mam." Luna nodded and he saluted, she returned the gesture and turned her attention to Morbis.

"Morbis, get your team into formation and await orders." Morbis saluted and ordered his team to fall in. They all lined up facing Lunas' general direction at the position of attention. "Alright soldiers, we are on the very brink of war. Chrysalis has assaulted Canterlot and as we speak she is more than likely taking over." Everyone stood stoic and listened intently to Luna. "We do not know what her motive is, nor do we know what she hopes to accomplish, as far as we know she is looking for something within the kingdom. She has kidnaped the elements of harmony, Shining Armor, and Cadence as well. I have been ordered by my sister to bring you all back together, you are the best chance we have to stop Chrysalis and keep Equestria safe." The team looked at her with shocked expressions. "Our primary objective is to free the city and make sure that princess Celestia is safe, our secondary objective is to find the elements of harmony, Shining Armor, and princess Cadence." Luna looked upon her team of mercenaries and felt a sense of hope that things will be fine. "You are the best of the best, and I have absolute faith in each and everyone of you. You all make me proud to call you my soldiers. On the command of fall out, get into the vehicle, Fall out!"

"HOO-AH!"

=================

They pulled up at the outskirts of the palace and sat there in total silence for a good few minutes.

"Why are we just sitting here? Why don't we go in and kick ass?" Haze spoke up breaking the silence.

"Have you forgot your training already?" Morbis said while lighting a cigarette and taking a long drag off it. "Look at the sky and tell me what you see."

"Hell I don't know, a sunset?"

"Exactly. We are the Mercenaries Of The Shadows, we fight in the dark, we are the things that go bump in the night and strike fear into the very hearts of our enemy. Besides, if we go wandering around in the day people will know who we are, the day of the wedding was a fluke and wont happen again. Patience is a virtue we live by, good things come to the ones who wait." He looked into the sky and looked at the horizon and smiled, it was about and hour from night time. "But you know what. I love getting started a little early."

Author's Note

I realized I messed up a little bit on creating the characters so I did a little bit of editing. (12/10/12)

Just like old times

The air became cold and still as nothing but silence set in. The full moon rose and shined over Equestria, covering it in a dim glow. Two changling soldiers were doing patrol and making idle conversation.

"Two men up ahead, Shade, Starlight do your thing."

"I just don't understand why we have to do this bullshit patrol at night."

"I don't know what to tell you... hey did you see that?"

"What, I didn't see any-" The soldier was cut off bye a knife impaling into his eye. The other soldier went to grab his radio to call backup but was stopped by a tentacle grabbing his wrist and dragging him to the ground. As he tried to brake free from the grip four more tentacles came out and and restrained the rest of his limbs and held his neck down. From the tree lines, the mercenaries emerged and walked up to the soldiers. Haze and Blitz searched the dead soldier while the rest looked down and the restrained one.

"Why don't you be a good boy and tell us why you came back." Morbis said as he leaned down. The soldier spit in his face. Morbis wiped his face and looked at his team "I have a feeling that we won't be getting any info from him. Shade do what you do best."

"Gladly." She said with a smile. She formed a new tentacle and forced it down his throat "Now just relax, this will only sting a lot." She laughed and slowly extended her fingers causing spikes to form from the tentacle and began stabbing him from the inside out.

"Shade, get the lead out and lets get moving. And be sure to get rid of the evidence." Morbis said as he took inventory of the weapons from the soldiers.

Shade let out a sigh "Fine, excuse me for trying to enjoy myself." She removed the weapons from his person and rubbed her hands together "But then again, quick can be quite fun." She giggled and clapped her hands, making the spikes rip through him, tearing him to shreds. She waved her hand and covered the bloody remains in shadow, she then made a fist and pulled down making the remains vanish into the ground.

"Alright, we got two silenced MP5s', two silenced M9s' and two combat knives. Shade and Haze, you two will take an MP5, Blitz and Scorch, you will use an M9, Starlight and I will use the knives. Luna come on out, its safe." Luna emerged and walked up to them.

"So now that were here, what will we do?"

"Well for starts, your staying away from the castle. The best you can do to help is tell us the best vantage points there are around the city." Luna explained that there are towers in front of the castle, and a well covered area on the mountain side. "Starlight, your objective is to make it to the tower and do your best to cover us while we breach the castle..."

"You guys won't get far with those weapons." Everyone looked at her with questioning looks. "I still have all your weapons in my room, you will have to make a side stop to get them though, but you have to take me with you."

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"Oh come on, I can fly there in no time."

"For the last time Blitz, it's to risky, we need to take it slow and steady."

She gave an annoyed sigh and nodded. Morbis moved a few tree branches to get a better view. They all sat in a tree just outside the gates.

"Three guards out front patrolling the area, if we take their uniforms, half of us can pretend to arrest the rest of us. Scorch your up, minimal damage to the uniforms." Scorch gave a salute and dropped down from the tree. Morbis watched tensely as he approached a guard that foolishly walked off on his own. As soon as Haze had the opportunity, he sprinted at him and struck the back of his neck, severing his spine

When he was dressed as one of them he walked towards the other guards. When he was close enough, he grabbed them by their heads and slammed them together. He quickly snapped one of the guards neck and instantly turned his attention to the other one. With all he had, he struck the guard in the throat making him stumble back against the wall and dropping to the ground.

The rest of the team arrived at the gate shortly after. Scorch walked up to the soldier and removed the helmet and stared into his eyes before raising his pistol to his head and pulled the trigger "Fucked with the wrong country."

The group gathered in front of the gate for the plan.

"Alright team this was only the easy part, next is the stressful part. Shade check and see how many guards are near the front gate." Shade approached the gate and placed both hands on it. Her horn began to glow as she closed her eyes, she inhaled deeply before opening her eyes exposing a pair of bright orbs. Her vision began changing, everything she saw was black with a grid showing buildings and the living.

"I count five just beyond this gate, ten guards doing patrol along the walls. Prisoners being led in to the dungeons by I believe six guards. That's all I can see right now." She removed her hands and rubbed her temples "Shit that always gives me a headache."

"Good work Shade, Starlight and Haze, put on the other uniforms while Blitz and I will dump the bodies in the water. Luna we need you to cover yourself with an invisibility spell." She nodded and cast the spell.

With Scorch, Starlight and Haze disguised as the soldiers, Luna invisible, and the others hand cuffed they entered Canterlot.

"We need to get to Lunas room to get our weapons. Escort us to the dungeons and make your way there. We will meet up in the courtyard."

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With Blitz, Morbis and Shade safely in the dungeons, Starlight and the rest made their way to Lunas room. Once inside she dropped the spell and took Starlights knife. She approached the middle of the room and began cutting up the rug. Once she was done she threw the scraps to the side. She used her magic to undo a few slide locks and opened the hatch. They all looked at the hatch as a steel rectangular pillar emerged. The doors on it opened emitting a bright light illuminating the room in a bright glow. They all gazed into the storage device with huge smiles.

"I think I just came." Starlight said causing the others to shuffle away from him.

"Anyways.... grab everything and lets go."

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The dungeon was damp, cold, and dark. Blitz, Morbis and Shade waited patiently for a chance to get out. A guard began walking past the cells to make sure everyone was accounted for. For some reason the guard was very interested in the cell at the end. It always caught Morbis' attention when he would go directly to that cell.

"Shade, next time he walks by I want you to take him out. Do it silently." Once the guard walked by she focused her magic and caused a spike to jut from the ground, impaling into his skull. She levitated the keys off the bloody corpse and unlocked the cell door. "Give me the keys, I need to see something." She handed over the keys and he walked to the cell at the end. The cell was heavily fortified with a thick steel door with a small window. There were several locks on it to make it harder to open. He looked through the window and what he saw shocked him. In the corner sat a pony with a purple coat, the mane was navy blue with purple and pink highlights. She sat there holding her legs to her chest and her face buried in to her knees. There were five other ponies in the room but he didn't really pay much attention to them. "Miss sparkle, is that you?" She looked up with red eyes signifying that she had been crying for some time now. She stood up slowly and approached the door cautiously.

"M-Morbis, Is that you?" Other than Celestia, she was the only one who knew about Lunas secret team. He unlocked the doors multiple locks and opened the door. As soon as she was sure it was him, she jumped at him and hugged him tightly. "Oh thank Celestia you came, I was afraid no one would come to help." Morbis pushed her off gently.

"No need to fear now, but we need to leave now so we can meet up with the others."

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They were soon outside and began sprinting to the rendezvous area. They soon realized they were being chased down by changling soldiers "Hope you guys are ready for a hell of a fight." Once they were in the courtyard, they were completely surrounded "Where the hell are they?" Shade asked sounding very pissed.

"I was wondering when you would show up." The group looked up to the balcony and saw a quite familiar face.

"Chrysalis." Morbis said with disgust clearly in his voice. Chrysalis chuckled and leaned on the railing.

"Now don't be cold towards me dear, I am going to be your ruler very soon you know. Not that it will matter to you anyways."

"Mind telling us what the hell your doing back?" Morbis asked getting Chrysalis to chuckle.

"That is for me to know and you to find out, that is if you live."She said as she turned around, snapped her fingers and walked away. A few soldiers approached them with swords.

"Get ready to use your shield Shade." Morbis whispered. He began to count down from five. "Five." They approached "Four." They unsheathed the swords "Three." They raised their swords "Two." The soldiers fell. Everyone watched as the soldiers dropped to the ground from the single bullet "One."

"WHOO, I GOT THE FUCKERS." The voice none other than Starlights echoed throughout the courtyard.

"NOW!" The shield went up just as the area where the bullet impacted exploded in a burst of fire. Starlight jumped off the roof in to the courtyard and ran in to the firefight.

"Morbis catch." Starlight yelled as he through a weapon in his direction. As soon as the gun was in his hand, he turned around and took out three soldiers with one shot. The gun he was wielding was one of his own creations, he called it the "Hell raiser". It looked similar to his S&W 500 Magnum, only it was larger and was black with a blue crescent moon on the grip. Instead of the standard magnum ammo, his gun used incendiary shotgun shells.

Starlight used a standard M-107 sniper rifle but used his own ammo. The ammo was full metal jacket that had a chemical that was designed to detonate moments after being fired.

Once they had the chance, they ran to cover inside one of the houses across from the castle. Starlight dumped the weapons on the kitchen. Shade walked up to him and pinned him against the wall.

"Where are Luna and the others?" Starlight swallowed hard and looked at the group who were now staring at him.

"Luna ran off to save Celestia and Scorch and Haze followed her." Shade pushed off him and walked towards the door while summoning her scythe "Shade, what are you doing?"

"Kill my way to the castle while you guys follow."

"There's no way you will make it, there are too many soldiers." Twilight stepped in trying to make sure she didn't do anything stupid. Shade thought for a moment before walking to the wall opposite from the door.

"Your right," She started as she dug her scythe in the floor, placed a foot on the wall and faced the door "I'm gonna need some speed." Shadow began emitting from her feet and hands "Get the door for me." Starlight approached the door and prepared to open it. He learned from past experience that there is no reasoning with her when she's in "mission mode", when she sets her mind on something, she is gonna go through with it. Starlight pushed the door open and in a flash, she was outside. Keeping her speed up, she hacked through anyone and anything in her way. Blood sprayed and limbs flew as her scythe went through them as if they were nothing. Going through all of this, she couldn't help but smile as the feeling of taking their lives brought her nothing but joy. As she approached a large group, she pushed off the ground and dive bombed into the center. digging her scythe in the ground sent massive waves of shadow through the crowd, and tore them to pieces.

Everyone left the house when the sounds of screams, gunfire, and Shades horrifying laughter subsided. Bodies laid all over the courtyard. Standing in front of the castle was Shade who was completely covered in the blood of her enemies. "Took you all long enough to come out." She finished with a bone chilling laugh.

"She definitely needs to go on medication." Twilight said while cowering behind Starlight.

===============================================================================================================

They took it slow once inside in hopes of not running into any trouble. Surprisingly there was no sign of any changelings. As they walked, a certain rainbow maned pegasus decided to ask Morbis a few questions.

"So who are you guys? Army? No wait, Special ops right?" After the stream of questions that just kept coming he decided to give her a vague answer.

"We are a type of soldier, lets just leave it at that." The rainbow pegasus sighed and stayed quiet all the way to the throne room where Luna and the others were waiting.

"She...Is...really fast." Scorch said between gasps of air. Haze stood to the side holding Luna still

with a spell.

"Let me go, I must help my sister!" She pleaded. Haze sighed and dropped the spell.

"Only because we're all together now." Haze said before she ran through the door, followed by everyone else. On the throne sat Chrysalis who was using Celestias unconscious body as a foot rest. "I was wondering when you all would arrive. I must admit that I was getting a little bored." Luna walked forward, gritting her teeth.

"What the hell have you done to my sister?" Luna said as she flared magic from her hands.

"Who me, why I only defended myself from your little whore of a sister. She honestly thought she could defeat me, apparently she forgot what happened last time." Chrysalis finished with a small laugh.

"You fucking monster, I'll tear you to pieces!" Twilight said as her magic began to orbit around her, sending sparks of energy off in multiple directions. Chrysalis waved her hand in dismissal.

"Now Twilight, there will be no need for violence. I already know I won't make it very far against all thirteen of you." No one was sure what to think. Her smile made them uneasy and unsure. They weren't sure what exactly she was planning but they sure as hell weren't going to give up the chance to put this to an end. Luna used her magic to drag Chrysalis to the ground roughly and cuffed her with a binding spell. As she was escorted passed the team, she leaned over and whispered in Morbis' ear before being dragged out the door.

"Well that was anti-climatic."

=================================================================================================

Once Chrysalis was loaded into the prison transport, the team and the elements of harmony began walking around town looking for something to do. The sun was just rising so shops weren't open yet and nightclubs were just closing. While everyone was trying to decide what to do for a victory party, Morbis was lost in his own world trying to figure out what chrysalis was talking about.

"Morbis snap out of it." Scorch said while snapping his fingers. "What do you want to do?" Morbis thought for a while before coming to a conclusion.

"Why don't we go to a nightclub tonight, I can wait, I don't know about you but i'm really tired and could use some rest. We should all get some rest to be honest."

"I couldn't agree more." Rainbow Dash said releasing a yawn. Luna quickly pulled her team aside saying that she needed to talk to them.

"I have a job for for all of you," She whispered "I want you all to place yourselves at their homes. I don't like how Chrysalis acted and I fear she may be planning something." The team looked at the elements who were eyeing them with questioning expressions.

"I agree, we should keep a close eye on them." Haze spoke up before looking back at the elements and smiling, specifically at a certain white mare who blushed slightly. Scorch smacked him upside the back of his head.

"Don't get the wrong idea Haze, this is a professional job, this isn't for pleasure." Everyone thought it over and agreed to take the job.

"Alright, Shade, you will watch over Twilight Sparkle. Scorch, you will watch over Applejack. Haze, I hate to say it but you will watch Rarity. Starlight, you will be watching Pinkie Pie, have fun with that. Blitz, you will stay with Fluttershy. I will stay with Rainbow Dash. You all know your positions now get the fuck outta here and escort them home."

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It wasn't long until the elements were home and the team positioned in front of each of their homes. It was going to be a long wait but it had to be done. Scorch helped Applejack and Big Macintosh harvest apples, Shade began teaching Twilight some new spells, Blitz helped take of Fluttershys animals, Starlight helped bake cupcakes with Pinkie Pie, Haze was used as mannequin by Rarity, and of course, Rainbow was sleeping soundly in her bed of clouds. Morbis was terrified of what may be coming in the near future. Chrysalis' voice echoed through his head non-stop. 'Death arrives on the dawn of chaos'. He worried for Equestrias creatures.
Morbis drew out a cigarette and lit it with his zippo lighter. Engraved on the lighter read 'In the moonlights embrace'. The flame was was a midnight blue that had and aura orbited around it. The cigarette burned to life as he took a long drag "What did she mean by that?" He spoke out loud while looking towards the sky. Sun down arrived surprisingly quick, the air began to chill slightly and a light breeze drifted over the land. He was pulled out of his trance by a scream coming from Rainbows room. Morbis through his cigarette and flew through her house to her room, literally flew through her house creating a hole straight to her room. When he entered her room, he saw her sitting on her bed with her legs hugged against her body. Her tears were visibly streaming down her face and dripping on her bed.

"Rainbow, whats wrong?" Morbis asked as he approached her. She quickly regained her composer and wiped her tears away.

"Who me, there's nothing wrong I just..." She was cut off when she felt Morbis sit next to her and place a hand on her shoulder. She released a sigh and slumped. "I'm just having some trouble sleeping I guess." Morbis thought for a moment before standing up and offered his hand. She looked confused but took it.

"Come on, I'll show you what helps me fall asleep." He said with a soft, comforting smile.

=================================================================================================

They were soon on the clouds and the sun was almost fully down. Rainbow sat on the clouds while Morbis flew a few yards away. He began flying in a circle causing the clouds to rise and spin into a tornado. Rainbow stood up and flew towards the tornado to figure out what the hell he was doing.

"Morbis, are you insane!? Who knows what damage you can do." She was forcing herself back to make sure she wasn't pulled into it. "Morbis, are you there?" She was quickly answered when he reached out and pulled her inside. She forced herself to fly against the current and thought about how insane he is. She looked down and noticed Morbis going along with the current, looking laid back and smiling at her. She tried flying away but was stopped when he reached up and grabbed her by the waist, pulling her back. "What the fuck?" She jerked around trying to break free but was met with resistance. "Will you let me go?" Morbis gave her a small grin and shifted his hands up.

"Im afraid not." He grasped her wings at the base, causing her wings to go stiff. She blushed a deep crimson and looked very shocked.

"What the hell do you think your doing perv?" She stared daggers at him but received only a laugh.

He released her wings and brought his lips to her ear. "Just relax, you don't need to force everything to go your way. Just let yourself go limp." He pulled away and placed his hands behind his head and closed his eyes. To Rainbows surprise, he looked at ease. She thought for a moment and complied to what he suggested. It was certainly something different to her, she never thought of a tornado as something to help with relaxation. She closed her eyes and spread her wings to glide along with the current. She started off fine but over time she lost her composer and began flailing around. She was stopped abruptly when she felt a pair of arms reach out and pulled her into a calming embrace. She looked back and noticed Morbis smiling at her, and holding her. "Maybe I shouldn't have let you off on your own just yet." She rolled her eyes before closing them and let herself go limp just as he told her. She felt at ease, yet the only thing the bothered her was the fact that she couldn't decide whether she was relaxed because of the weightless feeling, or the warm embrace she was currently in.

=================================================================================================

It wasn't long until she was fast asleep in his arms and being carried to her house. He laid her down and covered her in a blanket of clouds. He looked down at her sleeping form and smiled. He had to admit that she looked insanely cute when asleep. He looked around and noticed the damage he did to her house. He sighed and set off to repair it all. Once he finished the repairs it was midnight at last. He sat on her bed and nudged her awake telling her its time to head out. She stretched and made her way to the bathroom and took a quick shower.
When she returned, she was wearing a pair of tight leather pants that accented her ass, and a shirt that is torn just above her stomach that showed off her abs. It wasn't until she wore these clothes that he noticed exactly how toned she was.

"Eyes up here buddy." She said while snapping to get his attention. He shook his head and looked away.

"Guess we should head out huh?" She nodded and ran out the door, dragging him along.

=================================================================================================

They soon arrived to the club where everyone including princess Luna and princess Celestia where waiting out front.

"Well it took y'all long enough to get here." The cowpony standing next Scorch said. She wore simple clothes, a red and white checkered shirt that was tied off just below her breasts, and she wore jean shorts cut a little below her butt. Everyone seemed to be dressed in their everyday clothes.

"So why are you two here?" Rainbow asked, gesturing to the princesses.

"What, are we not allowed to have fun anymore?" Luna asked.

"That's not what I meant, its just that you don't usually see the royal sisters going to a club."

"Are we just going to stand here bickering or are we going to have some fun?" Celestia spoke up "I really need to let loose so lets go." She said, walking towards the club with a little sway in her step. Everyone followed, running to catch up.

"Hurry up Morbis!" Rainbow called out.

"I'll be there in a minute!" He looked up at the night sky, for some reason he couldn't get his mind off of Chrysalis and what she said "Death arrives on the dawn of chaos." He said out loud in hopes it would make some sense some way or another. "What the fuck does it mean?"

Calm before the Storm

The inside of the club was surprisingly large compared to the outside. Ponies danced along with the pulsing bass and others got plastered at the bar. Haze, Starlight and Morbis sat at a booth in the corner far away from anyone possibly eavesdropping.

"I'm telling you guys, Chrysalis is planning something and it's gonna happen soon, I just know it. We just gotta figure out what the hell it is."

"Well, what proof do you have that something is going to happen?" Starlight replied, completely confused on what Morbis was talking about.

"She told me that death arrives on the dawn of chaos. What do you guys think it means?" Starlight was about to reply until Shade came by completely hammered.

"HEY STARLIGHT! Wanna see my cutie mark?" She said wrapping him in a tight hug.

"You don't have one Shade." He stated plainly while rolling his eyes.

"WELL NEITHER DO YOU! I~m so fucking drunk." She said before passing out under the table.

"Have you found out anything about our marks?" Haze said in a serious tone. Morbis shook his head. They all found it rather strange that they didn't have their cutie marks. Morbis spent most of his free time looking in to cutie marks, he even tried talking to Luna about it but she told him to give up. Even after being told that, he continued searching but only ran into dead ends.
Moments later, both princesses made their way over to them. Luna holding Celestia up, probably because she had been knocking back Applejack Daniels since they arrived. Couldn't really blame her though, Applejack Daniels was some good shit.

"Chrysalis make it to the prison yet?" Starlight asked as Luna placed her drunk sister in the booth.

"Not sure, haven't heard from them yet. If not, she should be there soon. We probably won't know till tomorrow. You gonna finish that, thanks." She said as she stole Haze's glass of alcohol without giving him time to reply "To be honest, not knowing her whereabouts is quite bothersome." Everyone nodded in agreement and down their drinks, except for Haze of course.

=================================================================================================

"So Scorch, when we picked you up, you said something about being to hell and back to Shade, what was that about?" Starlight asked, breaking the silence as they all returned home.

"Ah yes that, when Shade and I were sent on a mission alone to seal Cerberus in Tartarus, Shade decided to make me his own chew toy," He said looking over at Shade, who was now rubbing the back of her neck nervously "Eventually I knocked the fucker out and escaped with all these scars you see today." He finished, motioning at his face.

"You are all seriously, the least functional group I have ever seen!" Twilight spoke up, getting everyone to look at her and make Haze laugh.

"Honestly miss Sparkle, functional is the last thing that runs in our little family. Sure we run into snags, kick each others ass from time to time, hell every now and then we end up trying to kill each other. But that's just how we work." He finished with a kind smile, looking at his 'family'. "And to be honest, it would be an honor to die from you guys rather than some piece of shit changeling." He gave a salute, receiving salutes and smiles from the rest of the team.

"Nice speech Haze. We should probably get to our homes, I really gotta my sister home, she is very drunk." Luna said, giving a small laugh. Everyone agreed and parted ways, making their way home.

=======================================================================================

"Alright, this is a simple spell. Just focus solely on the spell."

"Okay, here goes nothing." Twilight closed her eyes and began focusing on her spell. Her hands began glowing a bright purple as an object began to form. After a moment, a short sword formed "I did it, I finally did it!" She said overly joyed.

"Great, now give it a few swings." Shade watched closely as Twilight gave her sword a few swings. They were sloppy swings but as long as she was able to keep it up, it was just fine. "Work on forming the sword just a bit quicker, it could save your ass. But first lets get some rest tomorrow, tomorrow i'll teach you some new spells." Twilight picked up Spike and made her way upstairs. It always made Shade wonder why Twilight decided to live in a library of all places she could have lived. She was snapped out of her train of thought when a bright flash appeared in front of her. A scroll landed on her lap bearing a seal in the form of a crescent moon.

=====================================================================================

"Well here we are, I'll stay out front and watch your house." Morbis said as he turned around and began heading outside.

"Actually, I was hoping you could stay inside. I don't want to be alone, not that im scared or anything." Rainbow Dash finished trying to play it off. "Im just..."

"A little shaken up?" He finished for her. She looked away and rubbed her arm nervously. She hated to admit it but it was true. Being in the middle of a war for the first time can be quite startling. He nodded and walked her to her room "Im going to sleep on the couch if that's okay?" She gave a small smile and climbed into her bed of clouds. He could tell she was still scared so he thought for a bit before sitting on her chair and loading his gun. After she heard his gun cock, she looked up at him quizzically "I decided that it would put you more at ease if I was closer and you knew you were protected. So im gonna keep watch all night." She gave a full smile and laid back down. He sighed and leaned back in the chair "This is gonna be a long night."

After many hours, Morbis sat hunched over, rotating the chambers causing it to emit a soft clicking sound. He soon began thinking about Chrysalis yet again. He was unsure why he continued to think about her, it was damn near maddening. He began lightly hitting his head with the handle of his gun, trying to force the thoughts out. He stopped hitting himself once a flash appeared in front of him, making a scroll appear and drop on the floor at his feet.

===============================================================================

"Do I have to do this?"

"If you want to live with me then yes, besides, once im done you will look positively gorgeous."

"Why don't you just use a mannequin?"

"Well darling, mannequins aren't always accurate. When using an actual pony, the measurements will be more accurate, now stand still." Rarity demanded as she began measuring his legs. "So tell me, why did you become a soldier?"

"Well I got into some trouble with the wrong people and I guess my fighting skills proved that I was capable of such missions. It still amazes me that she noticed me, I guess it was all dumb luck. But hell I've never been happier."

"I must admit, your profession seems rather brutish. The whole killing and fighting, it just seems so-so..." She gave a shudder and continued her measurements. "And finished, your suit will be finished by next week. If you don't mind me asking, would you be able to help me run the shop."

"I don't know, I never made clothes before."

"Please, you won't have to do much, you will only have to run a few errands and bring me a few items." Haze gave a sigh of defeat and agreed. She let out a squee and lunged at him, giving him a tight hug. "Thank you so much, I promise I wont work you to hard."

"It's fine Rarity, i'm happy to help." He cracked a smile and rubbed her head "Why don't you head to bed, you've had a long couple days." She released him from her tight hold, put her supplies away and made her way upstairs. As much as he hated to admit it, it was fun being a mannequin. It was something different and that was all he wanted, something different.
Haze entered the kitchen in hopes of finding some sort of alcohol, perhaps a nice red wine. He approached the wine rack and found an unopened bottle of wine. He thought for a moment, deciding whether or not he should open it. He came to the conclusion that he could always pay her back. He popped the cork and poured a glass. He swirled the wine around a bit before taking a sip. "Not exactly my favorite, but it will do." As he began to take another sip, a flash appeared... inside the bottle of wine. "You gotta be kidding me. Well here goes nothing." He began chugging the bottle while mentally chanting 'chug chug chug...'
Once the bottle was finished, he wrapped it in his shirt, placed it on the table and elbowed it causing a quiet shattering sound. He removed the scroll and threw the glass away.

======================================================================================

"Thanks again for helpin' out with the harvesting, you sure did help us out a lot." Applejack said as She, and Scorch made their way back to the barn from the west side of the orchard, carrying bushels of apples. It amazed Scorch that their entire income came from apples. In just a few hours they were able to harvest over half the west orchard.
"No problem. Just wish we could have gotten more done."

As soon as they arrived at the barn, Big Mac emerged from the east orchard with two bushels under his arms. "Oh hey, I didn't know we had some help. Im Big Macintosh, but you can just call me Big Mac." He offered to shake Scorch's hand as he introduced himself. Scorch gladly shook his hand and introduced himself. Scorch opened the barn and they placed the apples against the wall and made their way back to the house. When Applejack was inside, Big Mac stopped Scorch and closed the door. "Mind telling me who you are?"

"Oh well i'm just a friend of Twilight, and she had me meet all her friends." Scorch smiled nervously, hoping that he believed him. Big Mac stood there with his arms crossed and observing him with a raised eyebrow.

"I'm not sure I believe you. Just tell me who you are and we can go to bed." Scorch leaned up against the wall and admitted that he was a soldier, but wouldn't give any more information. "So you would be able to protect my little sis?" Scorch nodded and looked at Big Mac who was now smiling. He must have been happy with the answers since he opened the door and invited him in.

Scorch was laying on the couch thinking about the previous day. It was intense to say the least, but it was nice going back to what he knew. Sleep soon began to take over before he was awoken by an object landing on his face. He reached up and noticed it was a scroll, seal by a crescent moon.

========================================================================================

"Wow, I cant believe how many animals you have, it's like your own zoo." Blitz said, looking around and marveling at the animals.

"Well actually, not all of the animals you see are mine. I take care of pets while their owners are away." Fluttershy said as she pet a bird that was perched on her finger. Fluttershy sang a few notes getting the bird to repeat exactly. Blitz loved how well she got along with the animals.

"So are you a vet or something?" Blitz asked as she sat down on the couch.

"Oh my no, of course tending to animals comes with making sure they stay healthy, but its not a job, it's my passion to take care of animals."

"So if your not a vet, what do you do for a living?"

"I don't have a job, believe it or not but the city pays me for taking care of all the animals in town when their owners aren't around. It's great to payed for doing something I love, I just wish other people would do what they love most... Do you love your job?"

"Well i'm honestly not to fond of what I have to do, but its what I do best. I would love to care for animals like you but I just don't have the time."

"While your staying here, you can help me with the animals, If you don't mind that is." Blitz jumped at her, wrapping her in a tight hug, thank her over and over again. "Um, your welcome." She said as she lightly returned the hug and her cheeks turning a light shade of pink from embarrassment "Unfortunately I don't have anything for you right now. But I will tomorrow." Blitz nodded and went back to the couch. Fluttershy checked to see if the animals were fed, said goodnight to her new roommate and went to sleep.

Blitz felt at ease around all the animals, it was as if she was in her natural habitat. She noticed a bright flash from one of the bird houses. She sat up and noticed a part of a scroll sticking out of it. She thought for a moment before whistling three times quickly. The scroll disappeared for a moment before a bright red bird flew out, holding the scroll in its mouth. She extended her finger for the bird to land on. She took the scroll from the bird and and began reading it.

======================================================================================

"How does it taste?" The bouncing pink pony asked.

"Mother of Luna, it's incredible. What did you say this is?" Starlight asked as he downed the rest of his cake.

"Its called the 'Haymaker berry blast', It's a new recipe that I wanted to try out. Im glad it turned out good. You want another piece?" Starlight nodded before licking the the plate. Pinkie Pie cut another slice for him and for her. the cake was made of hay and covered in a bright strawberry frosting with raspberries and black berries circling the top "Thanks for being my personal taste tester, It makes my job so much easier when I have another pony tasting my cooking."

"So how many cakes have we made now?"

"I think this makes ten cakes now. Wanna make another one?" As much as Starlight loved sweets, he wasn't sure how much more he could eat. He wanted to keep going but there was no way in hell he could keep up with her. "Oh come on, just one more I promise only one more and then we will be done, just one..." Pinkie pies' head dropped like a rock on the table. Starlight poked her a couple times to make sure she was still alive. She let out a groan and a snore signifying that she was only passed the fuck out. Starlight looked around as if the answer was around him

"Seriously, how the hell can this pony have a sugar crash!?" He yelled out to no one. He looked down at the rest of his cake and shrugged "Might as well finish my cake." He was about to dig his fork in until a bright flash caused it to disappear and have a scroll take its place. He stared down at the scroll with a blank expression "Or not." He unrolled the scroll and began to read to himself. Once finished, he tossed it down, stood up and took a deep breath "DO WE EVER GET A FUCKING BREAK!?"

======================================================================================

"I'm sure you are all wondering why I summoned you here in the Everfree forest so late. It appears something quite startling has come up," Luna began, noticing that she had their attention "One of the guards noticed something off about the gardens. During the attack they seemed to have stolen something very important. Im sending you all to one of the changeling fortresses tomorrow, you will leave at dawn. If you keep a steady pace, you will arrive around nightfall."

"Alright, what exactly are we looking for?" Morbis asked, sounding a little drowsy. Luna presented a picture of a creature made up of several animal parts.

"I already have the plan laid out." She took out a map from her bag and placed it on a stump.

"A transport will fly you from Cloudsdale, and drop you five miles south of `The Forbidden City where you will circle around and infiltrate from the rear gate, once you retrieve the statue, call in an evac unit and once you are on board, notify Canterlot to send in a napalm strike."

"But what about the civilians?" Shade spoke up.

"Our intel tells us that the city has become overthrown by the changelings. If that's correct, there will be no civilians within the vicinity. Now go get prepped for the mission and report to the military base in Cloudsdale. May the night guide you all." She finished with the M.O.T.S. salute obtaining the same from the team.

Author's Note

Sorry its so hard to see the areas on the map. Here's the URL to the map http://images.wikia.com/wtwe/images/archive/7/7d/20111108121849!Equestria_and_beyond_rev_8.jpg

The Forbidden City is at the top of the central land

The Fortress

"So let me get this straight, were going to the blistering heat of the desert, where there will be a napalm strike on standby, we will be under heavy fire and probably get fucked up going in and getting out?" Starlight asked, pointing out the obvious. Morbis face palmed and groaned.

"Yes Starlight, we just went over this not five minutes ago. I swear if I have to stay on this balloon with you for another minute, I'll shoot you myself."

"Ah relax captain, were here already." Blitz said as she pointed at the large military base in front of them. The building was five hundred yards wide and one hundred yards high. Standing out front was a griffon with a gold body and silver head and had one claw made of a crystal on his right hand.

"Alright, just let me use the cloud walking spell and lets get going." Shade said before any non-pegasus ponies fell to their death.

As they approached the griffon they took notice of his left eye being pure white with a scar leading from his forehead, over his eye, and almost reaching his chin.

"State your business." The griffon said. His voice was deep and slightly raspy.

"Were the soldiers Luna sent, She said someone here would be expecting us." He looked up for a moment before grunting and looking at his clipboard.

"Full names?"

"Morbis Soul."

"Night Shade."

"Blitzkrieg."

"Scorch Plain."

"Blood Haze."

"Starlight." The griffon checked everyone off one by one before nodding and leading them inside.

"By the way, I'm Diamond Claw." The griffon introduced himself "Shouldn't be hard to forget." He added, twirling his claw around. "Also, Luna wanted you guys to have a little present, you'll find 'em on the seats.

The team boarded the plane and instantly took notice of the items on their seats "So who wants to go first?"

In moments they were all outfitted in their brand new uniforms. The uniforms were black with dark blue trimming along the seams and had thin metal plating on the front and back of the torso, back of the gloves, and around the neck. The back of the gloves had light blue crescent moons.
While everyone was talking about the uniforms, Morbis walked up to them reading a note. "Hey Diamond Claw, how long till we can take off?"

"As soon as your all ready."

"Alright, can I see your shotgun for a moment?" Diamond handed over the shotgun and Morbis began inspecting it. "Hey Starlight." Starlight turned to face him and was instantly met with slugs impacting his chest. All the military personal aimed their guns at Morbis who only stared at Starlight on the ground. "Get up Starlight, I know your not dead." He said while giving him a kick.

"It's moments like these that make people think your an asshole, you know that right?" Starlight finally replied while laying on the ground with the wind knocked out of him.

"Nah, the people love me." Morbis offered Starlight a hand, which he gladly accepted.

"Next time, I get to shoot you in the dick."

"Alright you two, knock it off before the soldiers here find you as a threat and detain you all." Diamond Claw spoke up "Now all of you get on the damn plane."

They rode on the plane for roughly four hours before Diamond Claw walked into the cargo area where the team was placed. "We're nearing the drop zone so get ready, make sure your guns are loaded, armor on right, and parachutes strapped on." He said as he tossed parachutes to any non-pegasus. The team checked themselves and each other to make sure there weren't any flaws with their suits aside from the holes and dents in Starlights.
When they were prepared, they waited next to the door and awaited the green light to signify the moment to jump. The team watched the light without breaking eye contact.
As soon as the light turned green, everyone spilled out of the plane and plummeted towards the ground. The air whipped passed them, making and audible "whooshing" sound.
Once they reached twenty-five hundred feet, they opened the parachutes, making them slow down their descent.

The ponies parachuting soon arrived on the ground, meeting up with Morbis and Blitz who were waiting for them. As soon as Scorch hit the ground, he began kissing the ground despite the sand. "I hate flying so fucking much." He said as he continued kissing the ground.

"Alright team, the city is about five miles north of our location, and judging by the terrain it will take an hour or two to arrive. Lets move out." In single file, they began walking north, crossing hills and gorges.

"Well, since were gonna be walking for a while, who wants to play a game?" Starlight asked, offering his idea to help pass time. Everyone except Scorch and Shade agreed. "Alright, I spy with my little eye...something big."

"The desert." Everyone said in unison almost instantly including Scorch and Shade.

"Damn you guys are good."

Morbis was right, it did only take an hour and a half to make it to their destination. The city was surrounded with a wooden barricade, sharpened at the top to prevent unwanted visitors getting in. "The rear gate is least defended because of the mountains making it extremely difficult to get in. Come on, lets make our way around back, night will be here soon."

Just as they were arriving in back, night took over, leaving everything shrouded in darkness. The only light source was coming from the city within the walls. "Shade, count the amount of guards." She counted off five guards outside the gate and pointed out that they were wearing thick armor, but couldn't count how many inside. "Starlight, take 'em down quietly with a silencer and 50. caliber rounds." He gave a two finger salute and picked out his targets. From right to left, he took each one of them down with head shots. He gave an all clear, getting the team to drag the bodied out of view. Scorch and Haze banged on the gate, getting another two guards to inspect what was happening. Once Scorch and Haze had the chance, that grabbed their own soldier, stabbing them in the soft part of their skull right above the spine and pulled them out of view.

Starlight dropped down from his post and met up with the rest of the team who waited at the gate. "Shit, convoy, get down." He lead everyone behind a rundown jeep and waited for the convoy to pass. When the coast was cleat, Morbis pointed out a bell tower to Starlight. The tower was pitch black, providing the perfect amount of cover.

"The statue will most likely be inside a storage area or in the church. Starlight, you get up in the bell tower and provide us cover while we make our way to the storage building, if it's not there, the church isn't to far from it so we shouldn't face too much opposition."

"Yes sir." Starlight made his way to the tower as quiet as he could while the rest ran to the storage area and began their search.

"Starlight, do you see anyone outside?" Shade asked, using her comm. unit.

"Strangely no, I haven't seen anyone yet. I'll keep my eye out though."

"The statue isn't here, we need to move our search to the church. It's just down the road from here." The team climbed through the windows, using houses as cover to keep them out of sight.

The church appeared to have been white at some point, but was now weathered away revealing the dark brown and frayed wood underneath. Some windows were broken, giving sight inside. Inside were several crates and statues, none of them matching the description. Haze kicked the door in, allowing access inside.

"Blitz, get those crates open." Morbis said, tossing his knife to her. She dug the knife in the cracks down to the hilt and pulled, repeating the process at all corners. The crates contained nothing but miscellaneous object such as tools, and building resources. Morbis pulled out his communicator angrily and contacted Luna.

"It's not here, I repeat, It's not here."

"Guys we got a problem. Soldiers on the move towards the church. They're taking cover behind the buildings. The fuck? One of them just pulled out a device, it looks like a... Shit, GET OUT NOW!" As if on cue, multiple lights came on it all corners of the room, illuminating it in a dim red glow. The team dived out of the windows and got just enough distance before the church self destructed, sending debris flying in all directions. Bright lights turned on all over the city, making it seem like day time arrived. Morbis rolled over on his stomach and groaned from the pain in his body. His ears rang from the shock wave, and his head pounded. He slowly raised his head, looked around and noted extremely faint screams from people trying to get to safety, not just people, but civilians. Ponies holding their children tight and running for cover. Morbis looked to his right and saw Shade using her comm. He couldn't make out what she was saying due to being so fazed, but he had a feeling that was not good. His hearing soon came back and he could hear what she was saying. His feeling was right and it frightened him.

"I repeat, proceed with the plan. Send in the napalm now, the L.Z. is too hot for extraction. Thank you Luna, we'll find our own way out." Morbis crawled over to her and tried to snatch the comm. from her.

"What the fuck are you doing!? Do you not realize who's out there?" She cautiously looked around the corner of the building and noticed what he saw.

"I-I had no idea. I thought there weren't any civilians."

"Well we thought wrong!" Morbis put his revolver away and pulled out his rifle and began firing at the enemies, doing all he could to avoid non-hostiles, but it was in vain. A bullet went passed the changeling, embedding inside the throat of a civilian. The body dropped like a rock. He hoped it was a changeling in disguise, but after a few moments, nothing happened. It was still a pony. He stayed fixated on the corpse that laid sprawled out on the ground and watched the blood drain from the throat. He was cut off from his trance when the sound of jet engines roared overhead.

"Get down!" Shade yelled as she pulled Morbis back, got on top of him and brought up her force field. Haze, Scorch and Blitz took cover in the cellar of the church while Starlight went deeper inside the bell tower due to the fact it was made of stone and provided ample cover.

Once the napalm strike passed, the team abandoned their cover and ran for the front gate, avoiding the fire that engulfed the entire city, and opening fire on only soldiers in their way. As they neared the gate, a few soldiers began closing it, attempting to seal them in.

"Shade, stop them!"

"On it!" She let out a yell as she fired a spell at the door, causing it to explode and send splinters everywhere, stabbing multiple soldiers.

When they made it outside, a helicopter was waiting for them a few yards away. The chopper was piloted by none other than Diamond Claw.

"Did you guys have fun in there?" He asked sarcastically, finishing with a laugh.

The entire helicopter ride was spent with high fives, praises, and gloating about how many enemies they killed. All Morbis could was think about how many innocent lives were lost in their foolish attack. He felt nothing but remorse for the actions that took place in the battle field.

As soon as the helicopter touched down in Canterlot, Morbis jumped out and began fast walking towards the castle. The rest picked up the pace to keep up with him, curious on what he was going to do.

"Welcome back, I trust you are all alright?" Luna greeted them, only to be met with punch in her face. She collapsed to the ground rubbing her cheek, she looked up at Morbis who was now standing above her. He reached down and grabbed her by the collar of her shirt and shook her.

"No civilians, NO CIVILIANS!? You fucking liar, there were several civilians there and I have no fucking clue how many died!" Luna looked at him with a frightened expression. This was the first time he ever lashed out at her. The anger in his eyes burned bright and true sending chills up her spine. She thought that he was going to strike again until Blitz struck the back of his head with the butt of her gun, knocking him unconscious. He collapsed on top of her, breathing lightly. She could feel his heart racing, and felt it gradually slow down to a steady beat. She gently pushed him off and looked down at him and then to the group.

"What the hell happened out there?"

Morbis awoke feeling groggy. He rubbed the sore part of his head and checked his hand for any traces of blood. He took in his surroundings and noticed that he was in the dungeon. After a few moments, the sound of heels echoed through the air. Luna appeared holding the cell keys.

"Come on, i'm letting you out."

"Why, aren't you afraid I might attack you again?" She looked at the keys, deep in thought.

"No, no i'm not. Shade explained to me what happened and I fully understand why you did what you did, and I'm sorry that it happened. Are intel was off, and I apologize for that." She opened the gate and lead him out of the castle. "Just go home and try to relax."

"Has anything new come up?"

"It turns out that Chrysalis never made it to the prison, we'll contact you if anything else comes up." Morbis nodded and flew off to Rainbow Dash's house.

Rainbow Dash greeted him out front and opened the door for him. "Are you okay, what happened?" She questioned, noticing that he wasn't himself.

"I fucked up that's what happened. I've never fucked up a mission." She lead him to her bed and laid him down. She covered him up with her blanket which he pulled close to him, and sat next to him.

"Everything will be okay, just sleep it off tough guy." She said as she placed a hand on his shoulder, trying to comfort him.
He glanced at her hand before clasping her hand with his own as a sign of thanks. He closed his eyes and began drifting off to sleep. That night, he dreamed of the people who perished in the battle.

Author's Note

Shorter chapter but oh well. Thank you everyone who is still reading this story, it makes me so happy knowing that people are still reading this story :)

Until next time everyone.

P.S. If you could leave a comment telling me what you like or don't like about how the story, It would help out a lot, thank you.

Vacation

Morbis awoke feeling no better than he did yesterday, his heart was still heavy with guilt. The thought of the families who suffered made him sick to his stomach, and it was all his fault.

It took him a while, but he managed to get out of bed and head to the bathroom. He began thinking that a shower would relax his nerves. He turned on the water to a moderate temperature. He closed his eyes and leaned forward, letting the water run down his back. Without meaning to, the thoughts came back. The cries and screams echoed inside his head, burning flesh stayed locked in his nose. He dropped to his knees and vomited in the tub. He sat there for a few minutes before deciding he should get cleaned up.

Once he was washed, he dried his hair and wrapped the towel around his waist. He stared at himself in the mirror for a few moments before decided he should go get dressed.
As soon as he stepped out of the bathroom, he was met by the certain rainbow pony he was staying with. He had no problem staying with her, it was just difficult to live with someone who was used to living alone, and walking around naked in the morning.

"Stop staring asshole!" She yelled as she threw a vase in his direction. Luckily the house was made of cloud or it would have shattered, instead it just made a poofing sound as it collided with the wall.

"Sorry, I'll just wait in here." He slammed the door shut behind him and sighed "What a way to start off the day."

Morbis decided to go for a walk to clear his head, maybe stop and get something to eat 'I should probably see what everyone his doing.' He thought to himself.

The first person on the way would be Haze, Morbis hoped that he wasn't drunk.
He walked up to the boutique and was about to knock until he heard Rarity's soft voice, and Haze's voice straining.

"Uh, its so tight!"

"Don't you give up on me now, we have already come this far."

"Alright, i'll do this for as long as I can."

"Well I hope you can do it for long, cause we are no where near done." She finished with a small laugh.

'Oh shit, they better not be doing what I think they're doing'. Morbis forced the door opened and witnessed something he thought he would never see. Haze as a mannequin.

"Oh hello Morbis, how are you?" The white mare asked as she went back to sewing.

"Im uh... Im fine, how about you?"

"Splendid, I would be better your friend here would cooperate for a moment." She said, scolding Haze.

"Hey what can I say, im an impatient bastard." He said with a huge smile. Rarity flicked his forehead, causing him to wince.

"Watch your language, I will not have such vulgarity in my boutique."

"Yes mom." He said sarcastically "I'll catch up with you later Morbis. Bar tonight?" Morbis shrugged and walked out the door. 'Thats the last time I burst in on ponies'.

Sweet apple acres, if you don't like apples then stay the fuck away. The orchard was a relaxing place, it was usually quiet with the exception of a few chirping birds here and there, and Morbis liked that. It was a place to go to get away from ponies for a short while... until some assholes decide to interrupt it. Morbis opened his eyes just in time to react, he ducked just before an apple was whipped at him, hitting the tree.

"Whats up Morbis?" Scorch asked as he walked up with Applejack and Big Mac close behind.

"Well I was trying to relax, that is until you decided to chuck an apple at my head."

"Eh stop complaining, If you want to relax, we should take a break, like a vacation." Morbis stared at him for a moment before answering.

"Out of the question, we can't afford to take a vacation in case of an attack."

"Oh come on, y'all can take a little break here an' there right?" Applejack asked, attempting to reason with him.

"No, and its not up for debate." He said as he stood up and walked away. Morbis couldn't believe that they were asking for a break during the start of a war.

After a walk through town, Morbis decided to return back to home he was staying at. He entered the house and notice rainbow wearing a sports bra, spandex shorts, and was carrying a gym bag.

"Oh hey, I wasn't expecting you back so soon. I was just about to hit the gym. You wanna come with?"

"Yeah sure, I don't have anything else to do, besides, a work out might help me relax." He said, giving her a shrug and a smile.

After a long race to the gym, they began arguing over who won. The race was a very close one, they honestly weren't sure who won but wasn't gonna stop their competitive sides to take over. They soon agreed to disagree and made their way to the exercise room and began doing their own thing. Rainbow went into the wind tunnel to strengthen her flying, while Morbis decided to hit the weight room.

Some time passed and Rainbow left the wind tunnel and made her way to the locker room. Morbis took note of two others pursuing her. One of them was orange with basketballs for a cutie mark, the other was a dark brown wtih a dumbbell for a cutie mark.
Morbis set down a set of weights and walked in their direction. He knew something was up because they followed her into the women's locker room. Curiosity finally got the best of him and he walked in.
He kept an ear out, and listened for her.

"Can't you guys just leave me alone?" He heard her say from the back of the locker room.

"Now where would be the fun in that?" One of her pursuers said. Morbis slowly made his way towards the sound of their voices.

"Just leave me alone, or you'll regret this." Rainbow said, trying to intimidate them.

"Oh, why's that Rainbow Crash? You gonna call up your girlfriend Fluttershy?"

"She's not my girlfriend damn it!" She was losing her cool and started getting angry. Morbis soon found them and watched for a moment.

"Ah leave her alone Hoops, she couldn't get a date anyways." Rainbow was visibly getting angry, her face turning beet red from rage.

"Come on, what you gonna do, you gonna fight?" The dark brown one said.

"Nope, I will." The sudden voice from behind them caught them off guard. Both of their hair was grasped as they were slammed into the lockers. Rainbow close her eyes and huddle up to herself as her bullies were shoved to the side of her. She opened her eyes and noticed Morbis close to her face and smiling "Miss me?" He released them and allowed Rainbow to walk passed them "I'll meet you outside when im done with these two, alright?" She nodded and walked out of the locker room.

"Who the hell are you?" The orange one named Hoops asked as they both regained their composure.

"Im a friend of Rainbow Dash and you, have fucked up so bad." Morbis said as he began cracking his knuckles.

"No, you fucked up by picking a fight with us!" Morbis laughed and wiped a tear from his eye.

"Buddy, you have no clue who your messing with. I'll tell you what, I'll give you the advantage." Morbis put his hands behind his back and smiled. "Well come on, what are you waiting for?" The dark brown one ran at him and attempted to strike, but was only met with a kick to the throat and brought to the ground by a round house kick. Hoops stared at his friend who was rolling around on the floor and coughing. He looked at the mysterious black pony who beat his friend so easily. Morbis only cocked his head and smiled. Hoops lunged at him in hopes to pin him down. Morbis simply dropped to the ground, and kicked Hoops over him. Morbis got to his feet and stared at his opponent who ran at him. Morbis' foot connected with his stomach, making him hunch over giving Morbis the upper hand. He swung his foot and did a back flip, kicking his face and knocking him out.

Looking at his work, he smiled and rolled his shoulders, letting out a sigh of relaxation "God that felt good."

Rainbow Dash was waiting out front when Morbis walked out, smiling like an idiot.

"Don't worry, they're still alive. Come on, lets race to Sugar cube corner." She gladly accepted and took off without warning.

They both held their own, staying at the same speed. The store soon came into view as they pushed their limits.

"I win!" They both said in unison. They continued to argue for a while before walking inside and witnessing what Starlight and Pinkie Pie did last night. They sat at opposite sides of a table that had empty bottles of Applejack Daniels, and Hoovka. Looking at Pinkie, they noticed she had bits sticking out of her cleavage.

"Seriously, can we even leave them alone for one night?" Rainbow snickered at his reaction and shook pinkie and Starlight awake. Starlight slowly woke up while Pinkie was more of a challenge.

"Morning Rainbow, Captain." Starlight said.

"Its three in the afternoon, get up. we need to go get everyone together." Starlight rubbed his eyes, stood up and stretched.

"Why,can't we just relax today?"

"I gave you an order Starlight, now go get everyone and report to Sweet apple acres."

"Yes sir Captain dick wad."

After an hour, everyone was at Sweet apple acres wondering why Morbis ordered them to report there.

"Alright, we have a very important mission today. Quite possibly the most important we've ever done." Everyone looked at each other, completely confused about what he was talking about.
Morbis pulled out a map of Equestria and laid it out on the ground. "In this area, there is a water spring and a cave."

"So what does that have to do with the mission?" Blitz asked.

He smiled and simply stated "Its the best place for a campsite of course."

"Wait, were actually taking a break?" Scorch spoke up, Morbis nodded for his response, getting Scorch to cheer. "Rainbow, what ever you did to him to get that stick out of his ass, keep it up."

"How are we all getting there?" Twilight asked

"Shade, your gonna drive everyone who isn't a pegasus there while us pegasi will fly, and since I know your the one who stole from my liquor cabinet back in Canterlot, you can just teleport there Haze," Haze let out a groan after hearing his punishment. "Alright, were gonna head out there at five in the morning, so pack tonight."

The campsite was a flat ground near a cave and the water spring. About a mile from the spring, and just outside the cave. They arrived just as the sun began to rise. The air was cold enough for their breath to hang in the air for a second or two.

"Well, the cave isn't very large so we're each gonna have to share a tent. Everyone will stick with their appropriate partner." Each group had a small sized tent, large enough for at most two people, Rarity on the other had might as well had a castle. "Shade, make a pit for the fire." She placed her hand on the rock in the middle of the cave and made a five by five foot pit, about half a foot deep. Everyone chipped in on finding fire wood.

They sat around the fire making s'mores, and conversing between each other. Pinkie and Starlight winked at each other before running to the tent, getting confused looks from everyone. They soon walked out holding a few bags.

"We bring party favors." Pinkie Pie said as they both pulled out bottles of Applejack Daniels and Hoovka.

"DIBS!" Scorch called out as he snatched a bottle of Hoovka.

"Well, you can all indulge yourselves in your hard liquor, I much rather prefer a glass of wine or chardonnay. Haze darling, will you go into my chest in my sleeping quarters and grab my wine." He got up and jogged towards her tent with haste.
Shade leaned over to Twilight and imitated a whip, Twilight chuckled and nodded in agreement.

Hours passed and the sun began setting, giving off a soft orange glow to everything it touched. Everyone had fun swimming at the spring, telling ghost stories and getting drunk off their asses. "Well im gonna go for a walk, I'll be back soon." Morbis said as he grabbed a bottle and walked off in the direction of the spring. When he was out of view, Rainbow stood up and began walking in the same direction.

"I'm gonna go find some more fire wood."

Morbis soon arrived at the spring and began undressing down to his underwear. He flew to the top of the cliff to the waterfall and prepared to dive. The waterfall was calm and running over the ledge smoothly, he took in a deep breath and jumped. The water was cool and refreshing sending slight chills up his spine. He swam around for a while before climbing out and sat next to a tree. He unscrewed the alcohol and began taking small drinks. The snap of a branch caused him to whip around and look at the pony approaching.

"Oh hey Rainbow, what you doing out here?" He asked as he dried off his mane. She leaned up against a tree and smiled.

"I- I just wanted to thank you for how kind you have been to me. The only ponies that have ever been this kind have been the girls."

"It's no problem. Do you wanna go for a swim?" He offered which she gladly accepted. She stripped down to her bra and panties and dived into the water. She emerged from the water after a few seconds. Her hair matted to her head, covering one of her eyes, and ran down her back. Morbis had to admit, she looked rather beautiful. He ran and cannon-balled into the water, coming up underneath her, lifting her on his shoulders. He leaned back, letting them both fall under the water. They fooled around for a while, splashing each other, chasing after one another and such before deciding to get out. They sat against a tree, looking out at the Spring. The area around them became lightly illuminated by fireflies that flew above the water, giving it a glowing effect.
Between the two of them, they drank almost the entire bottle. With the added alcohol from earlier, they soon became quite drunk.

"That was a lot of fun, thanks for that, I needed it." Rainbow said as she leaned up against him.

"No problem, If you ever need anything just let me know." Rainbow took in a deep breath and tried to build up the courage for the question she had been meaning to ask.

"There...there is something you can do."

"And whats that?" She swallowed hard, knowing that there was no turning back now. It was now or never.

"Maybe you could, I don't know... go on a date or something with me?" Morbis looked at her with a straight face and stood up.

"I would love to..." She was flooded with joy and went to hug him, only to be met with a hand against her chest, keeping her back. She looked at him confused and wondered what was wrong. "But i'm afraid I can't date you." Her heart sank like a rock as she heard the last thing she wanted to hear at that moment. The last thing she wanted was some form of rejection. She felt her eyes swell up with tears, trying to break free. She tried to force them back with all she had, but a few escaped and rolled down her cheeks.

"But-But why?" Was all she could say, they were the only words she could find.

"Im sorry, but my profession restricts me from any relationships such as dating. It's against the rules to date. Please understand that it's for your safety." She nodded and began walking away. Morbis would have loved to be with her, but she was in too much danger as it is because of the changelings.

The walk back to the campsite was quiet and a little awkward, and was about to get a little more awkward. Her tent was a little smaller than the others, making them have to huddle close.

When he was certain she was asleep, he left the tent and started a small fire. Using the fire, he lit a cigarette and leaned back against a log, taking a long drag.

"Way to go, you fucked everything up between you two." He said out loud in a hushed voice.

"What happened?" Morbis looked back and saw Blitz exiting her tent.

"It's difficult to explain."

"I got time." Morbis sighed and explained to her what happened down at the spring. She listened closely to what he was saying. "So why don't you date her?"

"Because I don't want to endanger anymore than she already is. It's too risky."

"Alright listen, your assigned to watch over her and keep her safe right?"

"Right."

"To make sure nothing happens to her right?"

"Yeah, what are you getting at?" She scoffed and looked at him seriously.

"Are you fucking retarded? You can protect her and be with her, It will be the same, just with more emotion and reason. Listen, She obviously loves you and I know you love her. So you need to open your eyes and accept the fact that you care for her a lot. The feelings you have for her won't just disappear cause you want them to, you need to confront them or they wont go away."

"You know for a fact we're not allowed to be in any relationships. If Luna were to find out, she would have my ass."

"Why the fuck would you care? You punched princess Luna and got away with it, and your worried about this?" Morbis stayed silent while Blitz got up and walked back to her tent. Before entering, she turned back to him "Give it some thought. Don't worry so much about what Luna said, worry about what you want."

'Maybe I could do it...Should I do it?' He pondered as he began taking another drag off his cigarette. "Fuck this is complicated." He paced around for a while before heading deciding to go back to the tent and call it a night.

"Lets hurry up, I wanna get back before sundown." Morbis said, trying to get everyone to pick up the pace. It was three in the afternoon before Morbis decided it was time to go. They were all upset but understood that it was best that they got back in case Luna had some information or something for them.

"I take it i'm gonna have to walk again?" Haze asked as he loaded the last of Rarity's bags, luckily the tent could collapsed really small.

"Of course, until you get me another bottle of Fireblood wine from the dragon islands, your walking the entire time." Haze slammed his head on the vehicle in frustration. Everyone piled into the Humvee as Shade fired up the engine. The tires spun and kicked up dirt as it took off down the road, leaving Haze behind. He sighed and started walking down the road.

"Assholes, making me walk all the way home."

'Is this how friends are supposed to treat each other?' The voice caught Haze off guard. He pulled out his pistol and began scanning the area for where the voice came from.

"Who's there, show yourself!" There was no sign of anyone around. He began thinking he was just hearing things, or going insane until the voice responded.

'In due time Haze, but I must ask, do you appreciate how they treat you?'

"I don't know what your talking about, they treat me just fine."

'Is that so? Would a true friend or teammate force you to walk for a small mistake?' Haze tried to think of a response but nothing came to him 'I thought so, just think about it, decide whether or not they treat you right. I'll keep in touch.'

"What in the hell is wrong with me?" Haze said as he rubbed his head "Oh well, I gotta pick up the pace." He started running while trying to keep his head clear of what had happened.

Hazed mind

Haze sat at the dining room table with the shades pulled back, letting in the moonlight, causing everything it touched illuminate. He poured a glass of red wine and lit a cigarette. He normally didn't smoke, but considering what happened, he could really go for one. The wine slowly but surely calmed his nerves. The entire run home, no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't stop thinking about what he heard. He came to terms that the voice was real, not a figment of his imagination.

After his cigarette and a couple glasses of wine, he thought it would be best to get some rest. He rinsed out the glass and placed it in the dish rack next to the sink. A hand reached out from behind him and was placed on his shoulder, catching him off guard. He grabbed the mysterious pony's arm, spun around and pinned the pony on the table holding a gun to its head. Once his eyes adjusted, he noticed the pony he pinned was none other than Rarity.

"Oh my god, im sorry Rarity I didn't know it was you."

"It's quite alright, but could you please take that gun away from my face?" Haze realized he still had his gun pointed at her. He quickly got off her and holstered his weapon while repeatedly apologizing "Just please don't do that to my sister when she comes over."

"Of course...wait...your sister's coming over?" Haze was never all that good with meeting family members, he tended to try a little to hard to impress them and make a good impression.

"Only for a bit, she is going over to Applebloom's for a slumber party. I was hoping you could help keep an eye on them, I would be very grateful if you did."

"Yeah of course, I haven't really gotten to know the girls. When is she coming?"

"Tomorrow morning. I'll be sure to wake you before she gets here." Rarity made her way upstairs after saying goodnight. She laid in her bed trying to fall asleep. She hated to admit it, but when he had her pinned and was leaning over her, she started getting turned on. She groaned and pressed her face in the pillow "What in the world of Equestria is wrong with me?"

Haze laid on the couch with sleep slowly taking over. 'She is quite the looker, isn't she?' The voice was back, why did it have to come back?
"Just leave me alone already." Haze said while sitting up quickly.

'I'm afraid not Haze, not until you do something for me.' Haze covered his ears.

"I'm not listening to you, your just my imagination."

'Say what you like, but were not through my friend.' The voice disappeared, leaving his head feeling hollow. He nestled into the couch and closed his eyes. He began to wondered whether he was going insane or not. The voice was starting to get to him, he was debating whether he should listen to what it had to say. He shook his head of the thought and pulled the blanket over him. It didn't matter at the moment, he needed his rest for tomorrow.

Haze was jerked out of his sleep suddenly as the comfort of the sofa he was shifted.

"Rise and shine sleepy head!" Haze regained his composure and saw the pony who woke him. Scorch was standing behind the tipped over sofa next to a young white filly with a pink and puple mane, she looked like she was in her teenage years.

"Hi Haze!" Her voice was slightly high pitched, but it had a more mature sound to it. She was wearing a lavender color dress with pink flowers decorating it.

"I'm gonna go out on a limb and say your Sweetie Belle?" She nodded in response. Haze pulled himself to his feet and stretched. "What time is it?"

"Time to get our asses moving, were gonna help expand the tree house," Scorch said, holding up a tool box "We got a truck full of wood and other materials in a moving truck." Haze looked out the window and noticed the truck parked with Shade in the driver's seat.

"What's she doing here?" Haze asked.

"It's easier if we have someone with magic helping."

"I have magic too you know?"

"Yeah but your more combat magic, she's a bit more graceful."

"Were you not there when she tore all those soldiers apart a few years back?" He said, flailing his arms around trying to make his point.

"Yes I was there, she did that cause she was insanely pissed off. You of all people should know that a unicorn's magic is effected by emotion. She went ape shit because she was alone and under fire." Haze couldn't argue. He knew it was true, he was able to control his emotions and put them to work with his magic.

"Whatever, lets get going."

They drove to a part of the orchard that was no longer used and saw their destination. The tree house was a decent size, the only problem was the fact that it falling apart. They unloaded the building materials and placed them a few feet from the tree.

"So, mind telling me why your really here?" Haze asked.

"I had to get away from Twilight for a bit, she's trying to interview me and take notes on what we do and who we are. It got annoying so I directed her to Morbis."

"Don't you think she might drive him insane?"

"Wouldn't doubt it."

They were soon rebuilding the tree house, along with adding a few extra details. Scorch felt it would be necessary to add a few deadbolts to the door. They added a balcony so they could relax.

"FOR FUCKS SAKE, NO!" The sound of Morbis' voice traveled across the orchard.

"I just want to know how many mates you have had." Twilight followed.

"How the hell would that help with your studies?"

"Well, somepony of your profession must have an affect on mares....or stallions."

"Twilight...our profession forces us to remain unknown. There is no way our job could get mates." Twilight jotted down a few notes and followed Morbis to the rest of the group.

"Morbis, you got any alcohol?" Shade asked, leaning over the balcony.

"Sorry, dry county over here."

".....god your useless." Shade went back to reconstructing the wall.

"The last thing you need is more alcohol. You always hurt us or do something embarrassing." Shade crossed her arms and stared at Scorch who was standing on the roof. He could feel her eyes burning through him.

"Like what may I ask." Scorch laughed and looked down at her. "What the hell is so funny?"

"I honestly don't know where to start. Lets see here, you got drunk and shot Starlight in the foot trying to get him to dance."

"Weapon malfunction."

"Is that like your 'wardrobe' malfunction that happened at the strip club?" Her eyes went wide and she grabbed the closest object and threw it at him.

"You promised you wouldn't bring that up." He began laughing uncontrollably and looked down at Haze who was clearly confused.

"Yeah dude, get this, she got so drunk that pushed the stripper off the stage, tore off her clothes and began doing her own routine."

"Im sure I did good."

"If you consider face planting good. You know how strippers climb up the pole a bit and spin around? Yeah she tried that. Blitz and I had to drag her out." Twilight and the fillies stifled their laughs as Scorch told the story. Shade glared daggers at the fillies who coward away inside their clubhouse.

"Alright, im gonna go get some more wood." Haze said as he walked off in to the orchard. The truck was parked about one hundred yards away from the clubhouse. It's been a while since they all had a nice relaxing day, It was a really nice day out as well.
Haze soon arrived to the truck and walked to the back to open it up. locked. He checked his pockets and noticed that he forgot to grab the keys. "Damn it." He slowly made his way back.

'Haze.'

"For fucks sake, leave me alone!"

"Alright fine, jeez." Haze turned around and saw Blitz standing there holding the keys. "I just came by to hand you the keys." She tossed him the keys and walked away.

"Blitz... damn it." She got out of ear shot before he could get her attention.

'Smooth move dumb ass'

"Look, im not listening to you, just leave me alone already."

'I don't think so, I have run out of patience and it's about time you do what I want.'

"No, you're not real."

'I am very real, and I will show you just how real I am. A loud high pitched sound rang in his head. Haze dropped to his knees, covered his ears and let out a scream. His scream was stopped as he felt pressure on his throat, stopping any air from escaping, letting only raspy grunts to escape.
'Believe me know? Now, are you going to listen or not?' As soon as the pressure was gone, he let out a few coughs before agreeing. 'Good. Now I know what you want Haze. You want a better life, one of ease with little to no complications. Think about the life you want, I can give it to you once im back in the world. Deep within the catacombs is a statue that bares my resemblance. Im sure you've seen it before.' An image flashed before his eyes. The statue Luna sent them after.

"That's you? But how... how can you talk to me?"

My body is sealed yes, but not my mind. After all, what kind of world would this be if there wasn't just the slightest chaos? The world needs chaos. My imprisonment restricts my powers, by I can still communicate as long as I put all my power into it. Do you understand? Haze nodded and stood up, leaned against the truck and rubbed his head. 'Good. All you need to do is retrieve six artifacts from the castle in Canterlot. I just need you to remain calm and act as if nothing is going on. Tonight you will take the artifacts and place them around my statue and activate them. Just know that I am in control here and I will not rest until you release me. I will make your life a living hell. I will torment you until you are driven to insanity. Do you understand!? His point was made when he brought the high pitched sound back.

"Yes, I understand!" The sound disappeared as his head felt hollow once more. The world around him began to spin as he tried to regain his composure.
Once he felt normal enough, he made his way behind the truck and opened it. He had to get back before everyone got suspicious. He took a few planks of wood and made his way back. This had become way too much for him to handle, he felt like he was going insane and the more he resisted the worse it became.

"Haze, you alright?" Haze looked up and realized he had already arrived to the clubhouse. He set the wood down and stretched.

"Yeah I'm just a little tired. probably gonna head back to Rarity's and go to sleep. I'll talk to you all later." Haze walked away after saying his goodbyes.

Was he actually going to do this? Does he have to do this? This is fucking insane, could he even betray his country for his own wants? All he knew for sure was that tonight was going to be a long one.

Author's Note

Sorry for taking a while to update, writers block can be a real bitch. Till next time everyone.

Awakening

Night time arrived quickly, Haze lied on the couch still awake waiting for Rarity to fall asleep. Luckily Sweetie Belle stayed over at the clubhouse over night which made sneaking out easier. Haze got up and put on his equipment, preparing for his mission.
Just as he was about to open the door, he heard the creaking of stairs.

"Haze, where are you going at this hour?" He turned around and saw Rarity standing a few feet from him. She was wearing a fuzzy purple robe with the edges of the robe being a fluffy white material. Her hair pooled around her shoulder and was disheveled.

"I uh... I was gonna go for a walk."

"With all those weapons?"

"Well with how dangerous the world is becoming, it makes complete sense." He was hoping she was buying it. She looked him over and walked up to him.

"Im not so sure I believe you darling." He hoped it wouldn't come to this, but he had to do it. He grabbed her by the waist and pulled her... into a kiss. She wasn't sure how to react, her mind was racing, all she could do was stand there and take it. Soon she gained control over her mind and decided to return it. She was impressed with how well he could kiss, rough yet passionate. He raised his hand up and cupped her face, smiled and began his spell. There was a flash before she gasped, her eyes rolled up into her head before collapsing to the floor.
He didn't like having to do memory spells but he had to erase it. He looked down at her form and noticed her robe opened up, exposing her marehood. What kept his attention was the fact that there was a slight glisten from it.

"I did use a memory spell right? Oh well, it still worked."

The run to Canterlot didn't take as long as it would have if he didn't use a spell to make him move twice as fast. He stayed outside of Ponyville to avoid detection. The last thing he wanted was to be seen.
The castle walls were moderately guarded with three or four guards walking along each wall. When he had the chance, he sprinted up the wall and jumped to the other side. He drew out his 9 millimeter and screwed the silencer on the barrel. He scanned the area and saw two guards walking his way. Three words popped into his head.

'Do what's necessary.' He took a deep breath and aimed. Two well placed shots tore through their skulls. He quickly pulled the bodies into the bushes and made his way towards the castle. Catching a glimpse of a guard on the balcony was all he needed to make him dive behind a bush. After observing the guard, he realized he was a sniper. Haze drew out his throwing knife and twirled it around a few times. He took aim and threw his knife as hard as he could. The knife impaled the guards throat, making his blood to drain out of him. He slipped on his pool of blood, making him lose his balance and fall over the edge. Haze launched himself up to the balcony and kicked open the door. The three guards were inside were caught off guard and were instantly disposed of with three shots. After killing the guards, he heard several ponies outside the room, running down the hall away from the room.

"What the hell are they in a hurry for?" Just as he was about to open the door, several screams of agony came from the hall. "I'm not alone..." He cracked the door open and took a peek. Standing next to all the bodies was a pony wearing a black leather suit with a helmet that looked very similar to a gas mask, excluding the canisters that are placed on either side of the mask. Along the suit were rows of knives, Three knives on each arm and four knives in a row on each thigh. On his back were two katanas with a dragon on each handle. Haze closed the door as quiet as possible, took out his SMG and put a silencer on it. As soon as he saw the mysterious pony's silhouette, he kicked the door as hard as he could, knocking the door off its hinges, launching it against the wall and pinning the pony behind it. He placed his foot against the door and began shooting the door where the head would be. He emptied the entire clip into the door then backed up. He reloaded his gun and pushed the door aside. The body dropped, only problem was the fact that the body was a royal guard. He looked to his right and saw the pony standing there holding his swords.
"What are you, some kind of mercenary?" The pony said nothing, just stood there twirling the swords "Alright," Haze began, cracking his neck "Lets do this." The ponies charged at each other. The assailant swung his sword at Haze's head. Haze ducked gave his opponent an uppercut, knocking him on his back. The pony sprung himself to his feet, grabbed three knives and threw them at him. He dodged two of the knives and grabbed the third. Haze threw the knife, impaling underneath the pony's kneecap. The pony stumbled backwards holding his leg just above his knee. Haze sprinted towards the pony and kicked the knife, popping the kneecap out of place. The pony screamed in pain as he fell over. As the pony tried to sit up, he was forced back down by Haze pressing his foot in the center of his chest.
"Normally I would question you, but im on a clock." He fired half his clip into the pony.

Haze entered the corridor with the safe. He looked it over, finding the weak points. After some observations, he placed some C4 along the door. As soon as this door was opened, he had to get the artifacts and get out. He detonated the explosives, tearing the door apart into nothing but rubble. In a flash, he ran inside and grabbed the items he came for, stuffed them in a duffle bag and dived out the window.
Using his magic, he propelled himself forward, over the wall and into the river. The river became a waterfall in only seconds. Haze was poured over the edge and tumbled towards a large body of water about a mile below. Before hitting the water, he pulled up a shield to protect himself from the impact.

Haze pulled himself on shore once he was in still water.
"Can you hear me?"

'I can, did you get the artifacts?'

"I did, mind explaining who the hell was that?"

'A faithful follower, I sent him here for the same reason, consider it like a test.'

"A fucking test for what!?" The voice began to laugh hysterically, enraging Haze even more. Haze stayed quiet and waited for the voice to respond.

'To see if you are worthy enough to serve me of course. He was my most skilled follower out of them all and you killed him so easily. I must admit I had my doubts about you, but now I can see your perfect.'

"Whatever, where do I go now?"

'There is an old mine shaft along the edge of this lake. The only living things in there are those repulsive diamond dogs. The changelings stored it in the depths of the mine to hide it. The royal army refuses to enter in there because of them.'

Haze slung the duffle bag around his shoulders and walked along the shore. The sun was beginning to rise over the mountains along the horizon, giving everything a dim blue glow. He soon realized his clothes were still soaking wet and decided he should do something about it. He pulled out a lighter and ignited it. Using his magic, he increased the flame and encircled himself in flame, drying him off quickly and heating him up to a comfortable temperature. He smiled and continued walking after tucking the lighter in his vest pocket.

After walking for a half an hour, the mine entrance came into view. the entrance was covered in thick vines. He checked his ammo and pulled out a machete. The machete cut through the vines like they were nothing. Once he stepped in, he was enveloped into complete darkness. He pulled out his lighter and ignited it, giving some light and enough visual surrounding to check his footing. The trek through the mine was slow and frustrating. Twists and turns everywhere, It was like a fucking maze. He continuously walked in circles, but his work paid off as a dim light appeared up ahead. He put his lighter away and walked slowly towards the light. Hugging the wall, he walked towards the opening and examined the area. Diamond dogs everywhere. Sure they were weak and simple creatures, but they make up for it in numbers. After examining the place a little more, he saw it. The statue was at the end of the room. They decorated the statues surrounding as if it was some type of deity to be worshiped.
Haze scaled down the wall and hid behind some scaffolding. He had to be careful, he wasn't sure if he could take on all these dogs. Sticking to the shadows, he made his way to the statue, keeping his pistol in his hand just in case.

'Almost there Haze, just place the artifacts around the statue and get out.'

"I thought I had to activate them?"

'Look around you. Do you know where we are? This is the mine of fallen souls. Souls are where true magic is. These diamonds are producing magic at a magnificent rate, go on, look at the artifacts.' Haze opened the bag and looked at them. They were glowing. Another thing he noticed was the emblems on the items. He didn't notice it when he grabbed them but now he was staring at them. They belonged to Twilight and her friends. He rifled through them and became certain when he grabbed one that had one purple diamond.

"What are these?" Haze sat against the wall, looking at the necklace.

'My freedom, what the fuck do you think they are? Put them at my statue and get out fast or face the consequences.' Haze winced, remembering back at the orchard, if he were to go through that again, he would be caught.

"Very well." He had moved to move fast if he going to get away. He ran up to the statue and placed the items at the statue. The down side was the clanging sound and how things echoed in there. He looked back and saw all of the diamond dogs staring at him. "Well... fuck me." He ran at the wall behind the statue and began to climb it. The dogs began throwing random objects at him while some of them climbed after him. As he neared the top, Haze jumped backwards and grabbed onto a rope, swinging towards the scaffolding. Just when he thought he had a break, the scaffolding began to shake. He looked down and saw them chopping away at the wooden supports. "Are they fucking retarded?" Haze said as he ran along the walkway. The further he ran, the more it shook. He needed an escape and he needed it quick. Before he could think of anything, the scaffolding toppled over, crashing to the ground. He rubbed his head and looked around. He was surrounded in seconds.

"Quick, grab the pony!" One diamond dog said. Four dogs ran at him, they were stopped dead as Haze gunned them down with his SMG. Shooting and slashing his way through the crowd, he looked up and saw a way out. On his right was a pully system. With his machete drawn, he sprinted for it and sliced the rope. Grabbing onto it before it passed him, he was launched through the air, landing the walkway next to the cave wall in front of the exit.

Racing through the rest of the mine was simple enough and he was soon outside. The sudden light burned his eyes, but he didn't care, he got out alive and he was done with this shit for good... at least he hoped he was. He wasn't going to let that bother him though. He just wanted to go home and sleep and probably and long shower.

He walked into the boutique and removed his gear. He noticed Rarity was no longer on the floor and one spot, and one spot only on the floor was scrubbed clean. He chuckled, remembering what happened before he left. Walking towards the bathroom, all he had on his mind was just relaxing for the day. It was a long and stressful night. In one night, he broke into Canterlot, killed six guards and somepony who was in the wrong place at the wrong time, stole historical artifacts, possibly released a god, oh and gave the pony your supposed to be protecting an orgasm. what else could happen tonight?

"Oh mister magic hands?" A feminine voice laced with a seductive tone said. Just fucking wonderful.

Author's Note

Because I didn't update for month or so, I decided to put out another chapter to make up for it.

P.S. Im looking for someone to proofread the chapters, If you want to help me out with that, message me and let me know.
Till next time everyone.

Having a Ball

"So he turned you down? After he kissed you?" Twilight asked Rarity as they sat the kitchen table drinking coffee.

"Yes, and after he made me..."

"Yes yes I heard you the first time. No need to repeat yourself. Maybe it was an accident, perhaps he didn't mean to make you- What in the world Morbis!?" Twilight exclaimed as a suit case landed on the kitchen counter.

"Pack. Now. Were going to Canterlot in ten minutes." His voice was strained showing his anger. Twilight hadn't seen him this angry in some years. Whatever it was it must have been something horrible.

"Whats wrong, did something happen?" Her question was answered when he threw a crumpled up note from princess Luna. She read the note over. Her eyes went wide as she continued."They were stolen?!"

"Yeah, goes to show how fucking useless the guard is. They think they know who did it, they found a body that wasn't royal guard. They believe the pony hid the elements and returned for some reason." Morbis said as he shoved his guns and ammo into a bag.

"Think it was Chrysalis? For all we know she was planning this for a while, after all we haven't heard word of her in a while." Rarity asked. Morbis stayed quiet for a while before turning towards them.

"To be honest, im not sure. It could be, but the only thing is that the body wasn't a changeling. Either it was someone trying to make a quick buck, or something strange is going on. Rarity, have you seen Haze at all?"

"Not since this morning im afraid. He went for a walk last night and didn't get back till this morning. My guess is that he is still asleep."

"Lazy piece of shit," He said under his breath "Can you go get him so we can get going?"

"Of course Morbis." Rarity said as she walked out of the library hastily.

"Haze, are you here? We're going to Canterlot and Morbis needs you to come with." Haze walked downstairs carrying two suitcases, each one packed with enough clothes for a full week.

"Yeah I know, I was just packing for us." He handed one of the suit cases to her and walked past her.

"Can we talk about this morning, Im sorry about I acted when you got back. Its just not every day you meet someone who can make you cum just by a single touch." Rarity was blushing slightly.

"It's fine, I shouldn't have done that. To be honest I didn't mean to do that... I meant to do a memory spell. I really don't like ponies getting in my business. Please don't tell Morbis, he'll have my ass for it."

"Don't worry, I won't tell him. In a way, it was a memory spell 'cause I won't forget that for a long time." She smirked before turning away and walking out the door.
'why am I acting like this to him?' She thought to herself. 'I hardly know him and Im already making remarks like that. By Celestia there must be something wrong with me.' She started making her way down the road towards the library.

Haze was left standing in the middle of the boutique with a blush across his cheeks. "Did she seriously just say that?"

The group was soon on the train heading to Canterlot. Shade and Starlight were arguing as usual, Fluttershy and Blitz were talking about animals, Scorch and Applejack were talking about how to harvest quicker and easier, Rarity and Haze were sitting next to each other not sure what to say, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash were playing a game with cards, Twilight was trying to engage Morbis in a conversation. Morbis took glances at Rainbow Dash now and then. Things had been awkward between them ever since they went camping.

After an hour or so, the train slowed to a stop, pulling up to the train station. Morbis was the first one off and instantly began fast walking towards the castle. He hasn't been this pissed for a while now. The thing that really angered him was the fact that no one has infiltrated Canterlot in a hundred years. All he knew was that the guard had some questions to answer. Hell, the princesses as well.

As soon as he entered the Castle, confusion hit him like a sack of bricks. The main hall was decorated with banners, tables were laid out with platters on top of them, an Ice sculpture was placed in the center of the room.

"WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!?" He yelled, getting everyone to look at him. Luna was the first to take action by running up to him. She was wearing a dark blue dress with stars scattered around on it.

"Please keep quiet, we must not startle anypony. Collect your friends and meet me upstairs in my room."

Luna's room had furniture that was black and blue. Her walls, ceiling, and floor were painted black with constellations and galaxies scattered around to give the illusion of space.

"Now explain to us what is going on." Morbis demanded one they were all inside.

"We had this ball planned for some time, if we were to cancel the ball it would would suspicion and everyone may catch on to the fact that something is wrong."

"But shouldn't the ponies deserve to know the facts?" Twilight spoke up. Luna walked over to her and put her hands on her shoulders.

"There are things in this world some should never know. This is one of these things. Now onto business. My sister and I need you all to keep an eye on the ball and make sure that no trouble occurs." Luna said as she paced around the room. "We have all the proper attire needed for the night." She said to the mercenaries "Twilight, you and your friends will wear the dresses Rarity made for you." Everyone looked between each other before agreeing to attend.

"Can we see the clothes?" Haze asked, getting a nod from the princess. She opened her wardrobe and pulled out a suit. The suit was rather plain. They were simple black suits with a blood red tie. The thing that made them great was the fact that they were made of silk.

"Well go on, get changed and head downstairs. The ball will begin in two hours."

While everyone got dressed, Morbis was busy loading pistols for his team. Because of how tight the suits were, they wouldn't be able to conceal SMGs let alone rifles.

"Morbis, hurry up and get ready. All you have been doing is loading guns." Rainbow Dash said as she threw the suit at him. The tone of her voice screamed she was upset with him. He finished loading the last pistol and suited up. Suits weren't normally his thing, but if Luna needed him to he wasn't going to argue.

"Looking classy boys." Luna said as she walked in the room. "You don't have to participate in any dancing or anything, I mainly want you all to watch over the ball and try to enjoy yourselves. Now go on, the guests are arriving."

The team walked down the corridor towards the main room. There were already several ponies inside, having conversations, drinking wine and eating.

"I'm gonna go watch the front, large groups aren't my thing." Scorch said before taking off.

"Im gonna go look for the girls." Haze said before walking away, leaving the rest behind.
It didn't take him long to find them, they were standing next to the sculpture having a conversation. He walked up to them and noticed a white stallion with a blonde mane talking to Rarity.

"Come on now Rarity It's been years, I promise you that I have changed." She scoffed and looked away, thinking of a way out.

"Will you please leave me alone, Im here with my..." She saw Haze walking towards her and was instantly struck with an idea. When he was close enough, she grabbed his arm and pulled him to her side. "Im here with my boyfriend as you can see. Now im afraid we will have to be off."

"Now hold on Rarity, I'm not quite sure I believe that you are dating this low life." Just as Rarity was about to give her response, Haze jumped in.

"My friend, what do you do for a living?"

"Do you even know who I am? I'm the nephew of Celestia, I do not need a job." Haze leaned towards him and whispered in his ear.

"I kill several ponies and creatures for a living, I could easily get to you with ease. I wouldn't kill you right away, no I would enjoy myself with slow torture. Just keep that in mind next time before you fuck with my girlfriend." Haze pulled away and noticed that somehow his face turned even more pale. He slowly backed away without saying a word. "That's what I thought." Haze turned to Rarity and gave a small smile.

"Thank you for going along with me on this," A tune caught her ears and she smiled as an idea came to her. "Would you like to dance?" Haze listened and noticed that the music was for slow dancing. He took her hand and walked her to the dance floor. Haze held one of her hands with his left hand and put his other hand on her lower back. She held his hand and put her hand on his shoulder. Haze took the lead. First stepping forward, to his right, back one step, then to his left. Each step they took, they turned in a circle.
Soon everyone was joining in with their own dancing partner. "You never told me you could dance." Rarity said.

"You'll be surprised with what else I could do." Rarity Looked away and blushed slightly. She looked back up at him.

"If you don't mind me asking, where did you learn that spell?" Haze chuckled at the memory of where he learned.

"Lets just say I had a perverted friend who liked to play tricks on others." Rarity laughed and looked him in his eyes.

"Thank you for dancing with me... and getting that horrible pony away from me. I swear if you didn't come along I was going to end up doing something I would regret."

"Hey, you should know I would do anything for you." He brought his hand up to her face and caressed her cheek. She leaned into it, closed her eyes and smiled.

"You wouldn't do that spell here would you?"

"Of course not, I'm going to do something better than that." He leaned forward and gently pressed his lips to hers. She was in total bliss, she was thrilled that he was kissing her. The last one was just a distraction, but this was for real. After a few seconds, he pulled away and smiled. His smile was cut off as his mane was pulled from behind. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Morbis pulling him away from the dance floor. Once they were out of sight, Morbis pinned him against the wall with his arm up to his throat.

"What in the FUCK do you think your doing!?" Morbis asked in an angry tone through bared teeth.

"Enjoying myself, Isn't that what Luna told us to do?"

"I doubt she meant sucking face with the ones were supposed to defend you stupid fuck." Haze pushed him away and rubbed his throat.

"Look, I don't get in your business so why should get into mine? Your just pissed off cause you know your incapable of loving anyone!" The response from Morbis was a simple right hook to Haze's jaw. Haze quickly recovered and lunged at Morbis, tackling him to the ground. Several strikes landed on his face. Morbis blocked one punch, struck Haze in the throat and pulled him off him. Morbis got to his feet and pulled out his pistol. Before he could point it at Haze, his legs were sweeped and he dropped to the ground. Haze pulled his pistol out and pointed it at Morbis just as he pointed his at him. They both stood there panting, not saying a word. The last thing either of them wanted was to pull the trigger. The thing that broke the silence was the sound of two hammers being cocked back.

Scorch and Shade stood next to them pointing their guns at them. "Put. your. guns. down." Shade demanded. Haze and Morbis slowly lowered their guns and let out a sigh of relief. Haze pulled his friend off the ground and dusted him off.

"Are you both okay?" Scorch asked. They looked at each other and nodded. "Alright good. Now we're gonna leave you two be, but were gonna be watching both of you." Scorch and Shade put their guns away and walked away, only looking back once.

Haze glared at Morbis before walking back towards the main room. He walked passed the refreshments table and snatched a bottle of wine and continued towards the balcony.

"Hey you can't take that!" the pony managing the refreshments yelled

"Fuck off and mind your job!" Haze yelled before slamming the door closed. He leaned against the railing and began gulping down the bottle. The night air was cool against his coat and the sky glistened with stars, he had to respect Luna's work, It was a work of art in his eyes. The sound of a door clicking open caused him to turn around, Morbis walked out holding a bottle of wine as well.
"Didn't the guy tell you you couldn't take that?"

"Yeah but I told him to fuck off." Haze chuckled at his response. He found it weird how much they all think alike. They both stood there in silence, drinking the wine and looking out at the night sky. Haze felt the silence went on for too long.

"I'm sorry that I lost control, I don't know what I was thinking." Morbis placed a hand on his shoulder.

"It's alright, we all have our moments of weakness, you just need to face facts that you can never be with her while you work with us. Perhaps when and if you retire, you can be with her. But until then, your loyalty remains with us."

"I know... Have you ever had your moment of weakness with Rainbow?"

"I almost did, luckily I stopped her from doing anything."

"And if you weren't with us?"

"I would have wrecked that shit." They both bursted out laughing at the comment. "Anyways, I'm gonna go back to the party, make sure everything is okay." Before he could go in, Haze grabbed his collar and pulled him to the railing.

"Is it just me or are those some kind of soldiers?" On the road leading up to the castle was a squad of some kind of soldiers. The thing was, Haze recognized them very well. They wore the same uniform as the soldier he fought in the castle when he went to retrieve the artifacts. Haze and Morbis ran back inside and began looking for Luna. They found her talking with her sister.

"Princesses, we have a major problem. Unknown soldiers making their way to the castle."

"Gather your men and guard the front door. Sister, come with me." Before anyone could move, a bright flash and puff of smoke appeared next to the sculpture. Out of the smoke from the flash, a creature emerged. The creature had body parts of different animals.

"Good evening everypony, wonderful night isn't it?" The creature spoke. The expressions on every ones face showed fear and shock. The mercenaries had looks of confusion while the girls and the princesses glared at him. "What, aren't you all happy to see me once again?"

"Discord, how in the world did you escape?!" Celestia shouted. Haze mentally cringed.

"You see Celestia, every prison has it's flaws. My prison's flaw was the elements of harmony believe it or not. But enough about that boring subject, I think it's time to liven this party up a bit." The doors bursted open, allowing several soldiers to charge inside. The soldiers began aiming at the guests. "Now let me clear things up. From now on, I am the ruler of Equestria and you are all my subjects." He announced to every one.

"Well I think you got another thing coming." Morbis said while the rest of his team aimed their guns at him. "I suggest you and your men leave before things get messy."

"Oh Morbis, you and your team are so foolish." He replied with a smile.

"What? How do you know who we are?" The creature chuckled and stepped closer to them.

"I know more about you than you think, I could even tell you the things your princess has failed to tell you." He said as he looked at Luna.

"What are you talking about? Luna tells us everything." Discord began laughing uncontrollably. He wiped an imaginary away and sighed.

"I'm guessing she told you that huh? Tell me, who are you?"

"We are the mercenaries of the shadow, we are the ones who defend Equestria, we are the ones who..."

"Oh shut it, your only partially correct. Do you know why neither of you have a cutie mark?"

"Because we haven't found our special talent."

"How precious, more lies," He said as he turned to Luna. "Would you like to tell them, or should I do it?"

"Discord please, don't tell them!" She pleaded. She got down on her knees and clasped her hands together and continued pleading to him.

"Very well, I guess I will tell them... Or better yet." Discord snapped his fingers, giving a soldier the signal standing behind Celestia to hit her with the butt of his gun. As soon as she hit the ground, Discord was instantly in front of Luna. He grabbed her horn, restricting her magic, and lifted her off the ground. "My dear Luna, or should I say, Nightmare Moon."

"Don't call me that, I'm not her!" She yelled as she squirmed around.

"Not on the outside, but on the inside, you are very much her. Accept who you are." Discord dragged his claw across the side of her head. Her eyes glowed a bright white as a dark blue aura began swirling around her. Morbis and his team began feeling a strange force inside of them. Before either of them could question it, a large explosion of smoke appeared where Discord and Luna were standing. In Luna's place stood a mare with a dark black coat and a sparkling blue, flowing mane. Her eyes were turquoise with purple eyeliner. "Welcome back my dear Nightmare Moon."

"L-Luna?" Blitz said hesitantly. The feeling inside began growing stronger.

"No Blitz, I am Luna no longer." She finished with a chuckle.

"Do you feel that?" Discord began "That feeling inside? Do you know why?" The mercenaries shook their heads, getting an amused smile from Discord. "You are not who think you are."

"That is correct my dear subjects. Believe it or not, you are part of me." They all looked between each other. "Allow me." She raised her hand and emitted a swarm of magic to surround them. Crescent moons appeared on the back of their hands. A ring of magic circled the base of their wings while ancient letters appeared on the horns. "Do you see now? In a way, you are only a spawn from me." The team looked at themselves and each other in disbelief. "I brought you into this world on my own free will, gave you memories, a life, everything you wanted. But now, I'm afraid I no longer need you." She raised her hand and began charging a spell. Before she could fire it at them, a flash of purple took over their vision and they appeared in the orchard outside of Applejack's.

"What the FUCK just happened!?" Shade spoke up. All the aura around them disappeared.

"I'll tell you what happened," Morbis spoke up. He was sitting up against a tree smoking a cigarette. "We were lied to our entire lives. And we fucking fell for it."

"Come on, we need to fix this somehow." Blitz said as she offered him her hand.

"DON'T YOU GET!" He started "We. are. nothing, and that's all we will ever be." He got up and walked away into the orchard. Blitz sighed and looked at the group.

"I guess it's up to us... Hey where's Haze?"

Author's Note

Well here we are, more antagonists showing up. Thanks again for sticking with the story. Till next time everyone!

Rulers of Equestria

"Great, so we lost Haze, Celestia was left behind, and now Morbis has left, what the hell are we going to do now?!" Scorch said as they began walking towards Applejack's house. They all decided it would be best to stay together at her house. As far as they knew, everything was going to shit.

"Thank's a lot for getting us out of there Twi." Applejack said. Twilight nodded and stayed silent. She was so disappointed in herself for leaving her teacher and mentor behind, she could barely talk. With the farm coming in view, they noticed Big Macintosh standing out in front of the house. He began walking toward them with a look of concern.

"I want some answers, what in the hell is going on?"

"What do you mean?" Shade asked.

"Where do I start, a couple soldiers came by looking for you, Applejack. It's eight in the morning and the sun isn't up, and three of you aren't here." Scorch began doing a head count and realized that he was right.

"Where did Rainbow Dash go?"

"Morbis!" Rainbow Dash called out as she flew across town looking for him. Realizing where he may have gone, she kicked it into overdrive and flew as fast as she could home.
Bursting inside, she continued calling out his name. After looking for a few minutes, she noticed that there wasn't a single thing here that was his. Not even a scrap of clothing or a bullet. All of his stuff was taken out leaving her house feeling empty and barren. Rainbow walked up to her room and looked around before walking over to her bed. Instead of climbing in bed, she sat in the space between her bed and a wall.

"Rainbow!" A voice from outside called out. She couldn't tell if it was Blitz or Fluttershy. Either way, she didn't want to talk to anyone. She crawled under her bed and stayed there, hoping they would all leave.
Once she was sure they were all gone. She emerged from under her bed and walked over to her closet to grab some pajamas. In the back of her closet was a note taped to one of her clothes. She pulled it off and walked to her chair. She slowly opened it and read it over.

Dear Rainbow Dash

I am sorry for leaving but I can't stay here anymore. I don't know where I am going but all I know is that I can't be around you all anymore. I used to think that my team were just friends, practically family, but now I realize that we would have never met if we weren't some monsters created by Luna. Under your chair is a gift from me that you may come to use in the future.
Tell everyone that I will miss them.

Sincerely Morbis Soul

"A gift?" She reached under her chair and pulled out a metal box. Inside was his custom magnum and a couple speed reloaders, each one fully loaded. His favorite lighter was inside as well.
She sat there for a while, sparking the lighter and closing it repeatedly.

"So he's really gone?" Rainbow looked up and saw everyone standing there. She must have been so bothered by him gone that she ignored her surroundings. She nodded, letting a tear crawl down her cheek.

"I never got to say good bye. I just wish he didn't leave.... THIS NIGHT FUCKING SUCKS!" She screamed as she chucked the lighter at her wall. Before it could go through, Twilight grabbed it with her magic and levitated it back to her. Placing it in her lap, Twilight got on her knees in front of her and placed the lighter in her hands.

"He left you a letter and his lighter right, he must still care right?" Rainbow reached down and picked up the gun he left her.

"He also left me this..." She said, presenting it to everyone. The gun was recently cleaned and polished to make it seem brand new.

"He left you that?" Starlight and Scorch said in unison with the widest eyes she's ever seen.

"Yeah, so?"

"I don't think you realize, that is HIS gun, the last person who ever tried to lay a hand on it, other than me, almost had his arm ripped off just for touching it. For fucks sake, he threatens me whenever I go to grab it. That gun is like his life, and he left it with you. Did he leave it here on accident?" She shook her head and handed him the letter. "Well I hope you will never have to use that." She stood up and cleared her throat.

"Thank you all for coming, but I just want some rest." They all nodded and made their way out of her home.

"Fluttershy, stay with Twilight. I'm gonna stay here with Dash," Fluttershy nodded at Blitz. "Can you watch both of them Shade?"

"Of course I can, I'm the most bad ass mercenary there is." She said smugly, getting Blitz to giggle. Everyone left, making their way to their respective homes, besides Fluttershy of course."

"Why don't you get some sleep, need anything?" She shook her head and pulled her blanket over her. She soon let sleep take over, trying to remain calm after all that happened today.

"Attention ponies of Ponyville!" Rainbow Dash awoke from the thunderous voice booming across Ponyville. Looking out her window, she saw several ponies including the remaining mercenaries outside. The sky was still pitch black, limiting her sight. She grabbed her binoculars and looked at the town. Above the town was Discord. "I would like to inform you all of your new rulers. No longer will the tyrant, Celestia control you. For now you have the new king and queen of Equestria!" From the ground, Chrysalis flew to Discords side. She looked upon everypony with a devious smile. "Fear not, for your lives will become will be wonderful and filled with riches beyond your wildest dreams. All I ask of you, is that you bring me these ponies." He held up a flyer with the pictures of her, her friends, and their protectors. "The one who brings me them will be rewarded greatly. Now go, and make your rulers proud!" She dropped her binoculars and ran downstairs looking for Blitz.

"Blitz, we gotta go now!"

"I already know that. Go pack, I'll warn the others." Rainbow ran upstairs and began packing her clothes. Turning around, she came face to face with a changeling.

"Going somewhere?" He asked in a raspy voice. He kicked her back in to her closet, knocking the wind out of her.

"BLITZ!" She screamed, no one answered, she was on her own. Looking next to her chair, she saw the gun resting on the seat. Luckily the changeling did not notice. She dove for the gun, grabbing the handle. Before she could turn around, her hair was grabbed and pulled, sending her to the floor. The changeling got on top of her and wrapped his large hands around her thin throat. Squeezing as hard as he could, she was kept from taking a deep breath. Getting a good grip on the gun, she raised it to her assailants head and pulled the trigger. The recoil was so strong, it sent the gun down, colliding with her mouth. The changelings face was torn apart, and left a large exit wound on the back of his skull. He fell back, releasing her throat. She coughed as her throat was finally free. Getting on her hands and knees, she spit out a wad of blood and saliva with a tooth in it. Getting to her feet, she regained her composure and grabbed her bag. Before any more of them came, she took off to Fluttershys cottage.

Upon entering, she was greeting by everyone inside. They were all standing around a map of equestria, with Shade giving the plan.

"We will go around Canterlot to Hollow Shades, then proceed north to Neighagra Falls, and make our way to the Crystal Mountains. We will warn anyone along the way. Hopefully Cadence and Shining Armor made it to the Crystal Empire. Is everyone packed?" Everyone nodded and showed their bags. "Good, were leaving now." She rolled up the map and stuffed it in her bag. "Scorch and Starlight will take point. Blitz and I will cover the rear. Now move!" They ran outside and made their way around ponyville and anyone looking for them.

Meanwhile in Hollow Shades

A hooded pony sat at a bar, gulping down mug after mug.

"Can you believe it? Discord has risen again, this time he's actually taking Equestria." A changeling said to another, getting the pony's attention. "Also, they are looking eleven ponies. Whoever catches them gets a huge reward."

"If you only knew that there are twelve ponies total. Too bad you won't find out who." The hooded pony said, his voice was slightly gruff, doing all he could to keep his voice far from normal. He stood up and looked at them.

"Alright buddy, you're gonna tell us who the other is or were gonna rearrange your face." One of them said, trying to be intimidating. The pony smiled and flicked his wrists, two knives came out of his sleeves, rotated ninety degrees, grabbed them and impaled their throats. They dropped to the floor, holding their throats, trying to keep the blood from spilling out. He dropped the knives on their bodies and leaned down. "Who... who are you?" The pony cocked his head and kept his smile.

"Just a simple assassin, and you two were next on my list." The pony searched them and found a flyer with the pictures of the wanted ponies. He smiled and rubbed his chin, getting an idea. He stood up and walked towards the door. Before leaving he looked at a pony sitting at a table to his left. Judging by what she was wearing, and her bruises, the pony could only assume she was some kind of prostitute. After seeing a couple, but never paying for one, they were easy to pick out of a crowd. He reached inside his satchel and pulled out a large pouch. He dropped it on the table in front of her making a loud thud. The pouch opened up, revealing several gold bits. He leaned towards her and in spoke in a stern voice.
"Make something of yourself, make a better life for you and don't let me see you like this again, or I will kill you. You and everyone like you are nothing but scum." She nodded, grabbed the pouch and ran outside. Walking outside, he looked to his left and saw eleven certain ponies walking into town. Behind a building, was a group of changeling soldiers having a smoke and the wanted ponies were walking in their direction. A large smile appeared on his face. "Well this is going to be fun." He ran into an alley and climbed the wall to a building.

The guards noticed them walking into town. "Halt!" One of them yelled. Starlight had his hand behind his back and gripped his knife.

Author's Note

Very short chapter I know, but I mostly just wanted to give this story a swift kick in the ass to get it going.

Before anyone asks, the new pony was inspire by Assassins Creed.

Till next time everyone!

Double Cross

The soldiers raised their rifles, pointing them at the group. “Get on the ground!” One of them yelled. Everyone complied without little to no hesitation. Shade clenched her fists in anger. she wasn't one to surrender to anyone, especially to a damn changeling. They went for Fluttershy first, grabbing her hair and dragging her to the ground. She let out a pained noise as her face collided with the dirt. Even without her resisting, the soldier stomped down on her leg, breaking it. She cried out in pain as tears streamed down her cheeks.

“Leave her alone!” Blitz yelled out only to be struck with the butt of the soldiers gun. As she hit the ground, blood sprayed down on her. She looked up and saw a long knife impaling both of the soldiers arms. The other soldier released Fluttershy and rushed to his partner’s side to help. Before he made it to him, another knife flew through the air, cutting through his achilles tendon and impaling the ground. Before either of them could react, a pony sprinted up behind them and tied them together by the neck with a thin rope. Shade climbed to her feet and conjured an axe. Before she could swing it at them, the mysterious pony blocked it and pushed her aside.

“No killing.” He said simply. He spun around and kicked them simultaneously, knocking them out instantly. “Follow me.” He ran down the street. Scorch picked Fluttershy up and ran after him followed by the rest.

They came to what seemed like the slums of the city. Broken houses and homeless all over the place. He forced a jammed door open and led everyone in.
“Here we are, our own little sanctuary.” He presented the run down place, on cue a block of wood work fell from the rafters. “Pick any room you like, you’re gonna be here a while.”

“This is a sanctuary?” Twilight asked with an attitude.

“It’s either this or the streets with the soldiers.” He said with a smug grin. That was all you could see of him. Just his mouth. Everything else was covered by a mask under his hood.

“So you said any room?” Applejack asked. He nodded and turned around.

“Second floor, second door on the left is mine, I like to be alone but if you need anything just ask.” He climbed the stairs, leaving everyone alone.
Everyone scattered, leaving Scorch and Fluttershy to find a room on the first floor. Rainbow climbed the stairs to the top floor and found a locked room. Looking around, she found a crowbar. She pried the door open, It appeared that no one had been in here for only a few days. She began inspecting the room, looking for hints on who was here. Coming across a bookshelf, she looked at its contents and only found one subject: Cutie Marks. It looked like whoever was here was obsessed with cutie marks. She found notes on a desk, the only hint at a name was an alias the pony called him or herself. At the end of each note said “Sincerely, Grim Star.”

“Who’s Grim Star?”

Applejack soon found the showers. They were large community showers. The only down side to it was the fact that the water was cold.

“Is this occupied?” She whipped around and saw Scorch standing in the doorway.

“U-um of course not.” She stuttered. He stepped in, tossing a bag on the bench.

“I won’t look.” He said as he turned around, facing away from her. “Sorry to come in, this is the only shower that works.” She shrugged and told him it was fine. They stripped down, both feeling the awkward atmosphere of the room. A shower head behind her came to life.

After soaking herself in the freezing water for a while, curiosity got the best of her. She peeked over her shoulder. She noted his well toned body, sure it was covered in scars but that didn’t ruin the sight for her. She scanned every inch of him, silently wishing that he would turn around.

“I want to talk after this shower.” He spoke up, snapping her out of her trance. She agreed and began scrubbing herself with the bar of soap, mainly focusing on her head thinking that it will wash away the dirty thoughts forming in her head.

She walked out of the shower and saw him sitting on the bench loading a magazine, completely uncovered. He looked up and noted her bright red blush.

“Something wrong?”

“Well other than the fact that you're nude, no.” He examined himself and shrugged.

“It’s just a penis, who cares?” He said. “I mean hell, your boobs are out and I couldn’t care less.” She noticed he was right and grabbed an extra towel to cover herself. He chuckled at how embarrassed she was. He patted the bench next to him. She took a seat next to him as he handed her a pistol. “This is a simple 9mm. I would feel much better if you had some protection.” She didn’t know what to think, she never held a pistol before, hell she only held an unloaded shotgun at someone who was on her property stealing apples.

“But I-I never shot a gun before.” He laughed and stood up. She covered her eyes.

“This place has a basement that’s pretty much sound proof, I dropped a metal pipe and no one heard it. Meet me down there in five minutes.” He walked out of the room, completely unaware of the pair of green eyes on his ass. Applejack bit her lip, but shook her head of the thoughts again.

“Damn it Scorch, put some fucking clothes on!” Applejack heard Starlight yell.

“Scorch, I’m here.” She called out. She jumped as a hand reached out and grabbed her shoulder.

“Glad you made it, got the gun?” She pulled it out of the bag. “Good, now shoot the target.” He pointed at a target at the end of the basement. She raised the gun hesitantly and aimed. Her hands were shaking from nervousness. She pulled the trigger. The sound and recoil made her jump, she dropped the gun and backed away. Scorch laughed and picked the gun up.

“Lets try this again.” He placed the gun in her hands and got behind her. He brought his arms around her and held her hands steady. He brought his head level with hers. She fought her urge to back into him and have him caress her and... ‘Bad AJ.’ She scolded herself. “Now take a deep breath...” She followed his instructions. “Now breath out, while squeezing the trigger slowly.” She complied, the bullet ripped through the air and his the target on the bulls eye. He let her go and applauded her.

“You’re a natural.” She smiled at him as he walked to his bag. He pulled out five magazines and placed them in a row. “I want you to practice, I will be here to watch over you.” She smiled and did what he instructed.

“Hey Rarity, you in here?” Twilight asked as she walked in a room. Rarity was sitting in a chair looking out the window at the setting sun.
“Rarity?”

“...I miss him Twilight. I miss Haze.” Twilight walked up to her and embraced her in a hug.

“We all do. Knowing him, he’s still alive and made it out.” Rarity patted her friends hand and gave a small smile.

“I know. He’s a strong pony. I just wish we got him out of there.” Twilight walked over to the bed and pulled the covers down. For a run down place, the beds seemed pretty well kept.

“Just get some rest, everything will be better in the morning.” Rarity stayed quiet for a while before speaking up.

“Twilight, do you believe in love at first sight?” The question caught her off guard.

“Well I guess so, for some people. I just don’t believe in it, I haven’t seen any proof of it.”

“You saw Haze and I haven’t you? I think I love him, I pray to see him again. I want him to hold me, even if it would only be for a little while.” Rarity stood up and got in the bed. “I want him back.” Twilight covered her and placed a hand on her head.

“You’ll see him again, I promise.” She kissed her friend on her forehead and walked out.

“Rainbow...” Rainbow Dash looked behind her and saw a silhouette in the doorway. He stepped in the moonlight, revealing himself to her.

“Morbis...” Her heart began to increase it’s rate as she was flooded with joy. “I’ve missed you so much.” She ran up to him and hugged him. “Why did you leave?” He looked away and sighed.

“I had my own reasons hon. I only came here for you.” He caressed her cheek. She lightly pressed her face in his hand and brought her hand up to hold his hand. She took both his hands and lead him to the bed. She lied on her back as he climbed on top of her. He kissed her deeply before breaking away and stared into her bright magenta orbs.
“I have to tell you something Rainbow Dash.”

“What is it my love?”

“This isn’t real.” Her eyes snapped open as she gasped for air. She looked at her hand in disbelief.

“Just... A dream?” She let a tear stream down as she realized it was really just a dream. Looking out her window, she noticed that it was still night time. She wished that this was all just a dream, but she knew that if it was, there would be no waking up from it..

“I did it, I really did it!” Applejack yelled as she hit a bullseye for the third time on her own. She turned ran up to Scorch who was applauding her.

“Yes you did, didn’t I say you were a natural?” She jumped in his arms and giggled. ‘Did I really just giggle?’. She looked up at him and stared in his ice blue eyes. She slowly leaned foward.

“AHHHHHHHHHH!” A scream blared through the house.

“That sounded like Fluttershy.” Scorch spoke up. Both of them sprinted upstairs. They bolted through the house to find Fluttershy limping out of her room on crutches. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, who was screaming?” Scorch and Applejack looked between each other with confused looks.

“That wasn’t you?” Applejack asked.

“No, It came from upstairs.” They all ran upstairs after hearing another scream. Bursting through the door the scream came from, they found the pony sitting on a table fending off a spider with a shoe.

“What the hell, Starlight? You had us worried... wait a second, you scream like a filly!” Everyone excluding Starlight bursted out laughing.

“Shut up, it’s not funny. I fucking hate spiders.” Applejack stepped forward and stepped on the spider.

“There, was that so hard?” Before Starlight could reply, someone screamed for help from upstairs.

“Lets go.” Starlight said.

Rainbow locked her window and continued looking around.

“Why is this pony so obsessed with cutie marks?” She said looking over the books and notes more. It was really starting to get to her for some reason. She just couldn’t put her finger on it.

“This room was locked for a reason you know.” She turned around and saw the pony who saved them only he wasn’t wearing his outfit. He was tan and had a shaggy brown mane. He had bright blue eyes that could rival a huskey. “Why are you in here?” Rainbow didn’t know what to say.

“I-I just wanted to get away. I’m sorry that I came in here.” He walked in with his head down.

“Get out.” He said in a stern voice. The voice sent chills down her spine. She knew he was angry, she grabbed her bag and stuffed some of her stuff inside. Just as she began walking, the box with the gun fell out. The box opened up for all to see. He stared at the gun and his eyes went wide.
“Where the fuck did you get that?” She reached down and grabbed the box.

“I got it from a friend, can I go now?” He stepped forward and knocked the box out of her hand. He reached out and grabbed her throat, pinning her against the wall.

“No you can’t go.” She twisted and jerked trying to break free.

“HELP!” She screamed as loud as she could. Moments later, her friends came in to her rescue.

“Put her down now!” Starlight yelled. He looked back and saw three guns pointed at him.

“Not until she tells me who the hell gave her the gun.”

“Our friend Morbis Soul, will you let her go now that you know?” A smile of disbelief formed on his face as he slowly let her go. He began chuckling and running his fingers through his mane.

“So that’s that guys real name.”

A sigh of relief left a pony who was positioned in a building about a thousand yards away from the building where everyone was. He lowered the sniper rifle and leaned back in a chair. He took a drag from his cigarette as his eyes began dimming from the illuminating teal.

“Thank Luna I didn’t have to do that.” A crescent moon on his hand began to glow. “I knew you would show up.” He said with a smile. A tall slender pony that was black and wore blue armor.

“I’m honestly surprised you’re still thinking me as your leader.” She said with a grin. His smile faded as he stood up.

“Not quite. I only see you as the pony who brought me into this world. I’m surprised you haven’t shot me yet.” She walked up to him and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“I thought about it, but I decided it would be a little unfair. I see you’re learning your true powers. You know, Starlight can do what you just did.”

“Can everyone else do that?”

“Not quite. Everyone has their own power. Starlight can Increase his sight and accuracy, Shades’ magic can increase it’s power tenfold, Scorch can increase his strength to unimaginable levels, Blitz can control wildlife...”

“What about Haze?” He said with a sad tone. She raised an eyebrow before sighing.

“You and Haze are a special case. You both contain their skills, but at a price when used all at once... That price is that you will die slow and painful.” He took in the information slowly. “I’m sorry Morbis.”

“Nice to know you haven’t turned into a complete bitch, but tell me why you’re here.” She backed away from him.

“I came to give you a fair warning, watch yourself when you all leave. There are ponies out there who rival the powers of even Twilight.” She turned into smoke and left the building. He sat back down in his chair and pulled out a pair of binoculars. He summoned the power to see farther and looked through them, what he saw angered him to his core.

“I knew him a while ago. He saved my ass from some corrupt cops who were out to kill me. He went a little over board and more slaughtered them than just killed them, I won’t go into details but all I can really say about him is that we have been keeping each other safe and he taught me how to fight.”

“I thought that style seemed familiar!” Blitz, who seemed to appear out of nowhere, spoke up. Everyone turned and looked at her. “Sorry, go on.”

“It’s fine, there really isn’t much to say.”

“Well It’s been a very long day and we all need some rest.” Twilight said. Everyone followed her as she left the room, leaving Rainbow and the pony alone.

“Hey I’m sorry for how I acted, I don’t know anything about you guys and when I saw his gun I thought he died or something... Ah shit where are my manners, my name is Shadow Dust.” He extended his arm for a handshake. She swallowed hard and took his hand. He sat down next to her. “So were you and him a thing?” She shook her head slowly. “Hmm, weird. I thought you were since he gave you his gun.”

‘And here we go again.’ She thought to herself.

“So I wanna thank you for teaching me how to shoot.” Applejack said as Scorch and her walked to her room. He put an arm around her and smiled.

“No problem, I know it’s late but do you want to go shoot a few more?”

“Yes! I mean yeah sure.” ‘Why am I acting like this?’ she asked herself. Never in her life had she acted like this.

“Well someone’s eager, come on.” He grabbed her hand and lead her down to the basement.
The basement echoed with gunfire as Applejack became increasingly better with each shot. She dropped the clip and quickly reloaded and put a few more shots in.

"Pretty good, You're getting better each time." He praised her. He took the gun and dropped the clip before pulling the slide to discharge the round in the chamber. "So if i'm not mistaken, you were about to pull something last time we were down here." She blushed as she remembered what she was doing.

"Uh... no I don't recall doing anything." She turned away from him trying to hide the red tinge that covered her face. She felt his hand being placed on her shoulder.

"You know, it's damn near impossible to lie to me."

"How so?"

"I was the interrogator for the team." She sighed and turned to face him, thinking about what to say. She sat down on the bench and looked down at the floor.

"I don't know what came over me, It was a mix of excitement and fear." She saw his hands placed on either side of her on the bench. She looked up and saw him being extremely close.

"And what are you scared of?" She felt her breath catch in her throat as she got even more nervous than before. In a quick motion, he pressed his lips to hers. Her mind was incapable of telling her what to do, so she allowed her body to. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled each other closer into the kiss.

Their kiss was interrupted as everyone came down and rushing to the window. Shadow Dust pulled the curtain back allowing everyone to see outside.

"What's going on?" Applejack asked.

"Soldiers are pulling everyone out of their homes." Applejack and Scorch ran over and saw that he was correct. They were being shoved into vehicles and anyone who tried to run were shot.

"This is getting intense for a simple war." Starlight said as he observed.

Nightmare moon entered the castle and was met with a glare from Chrysalis.

"I know where you went. I should kill you for fraternizing with the enemy. Just wait until Discord hears about this."

"I already know Chrysalis." Nightmare and Chrysalis looked towards the set of stairs and saw their leader descending the stairs. "Who do you think gave her permission to go?" He said as he walked past them. Chrysalis glared at him in anger from being left out of the loop.

"Well why didn't you tell me that you sent her? I'm part of this team too!"

"I would appreciate it if you would keep your voice down, better yet, just shut the hell up." He said in a calm matter. She was about to retort until he raised his hand.
"The next step will definitely involve you, in fact, in a way it's all about you." He said with grin. He snapped his finger, signaling Nightmare to dead leg her and hold her down on her knees. Discord pivoted and pulled out a pistol before firing one shot into her head, send blood and bits of brain and skull all over the floor. He pulled a piece of cloth out of his pocket and wiped the blood from his gun before holstering it.

"Well that's that. Nightmare, get on the radio and move forward with the plan."

As the group continued looking out the window at the soldiers, a voice came on over the radio.

"Attention civilians, Queen Chrysalis is now dead." Everyone looked between each other with confused looks. "I was the one who killed her, Discord and Chrysalis were planning to assassinate me, and perform a mass genocide upon you all. It is now our priority to rise against him and overthrow his rule! Any Changeling soldiers must be shot on site to eradicate this evil. All my followers, here my voice! We are the true rulers of Equestria, not this false god. Do what you must to survive!" All that was left over the radio was static, echoing throughout the silence of the basement.

"She can't have that many followers right?" Twilight asked. Shadow Dust shook his head slowly with his eyes still fixed on the radio.

"No... no I used to be a follower. Last time I checked she had damn near a couple thousand world wide, now... I have no fucking clue." The sound of cheering rang outside as several civilians that were more than likely Nightmare Moon sympathizers charged towards soldiers and cutting them down with either guns or melee weapons. It slowly grew into a battlefield outside as more followers attacked and the Changelings fought back.

"What do they hope to accomplish from all this insanity?"