Chapters Chapter two - Thing in the barn
Chapter 2- Thing in the barn
Shuur was in a council chamber. He looked up to find himself in front of the prophets. He instantly fell to one knee.
“Lord Prophets.”
The prophet in the center spoke, “Strange that you would address us twice Shuur’Makhanee, especially at your trial.”
Shuur was startled by this, “Trial, what trial?”
Fits of laughter erupted from around the chamber. The Prophets were quick to silence them. The farthest left spoke, “Your failure on Reach was unacceptable!” The prophet continued, “That and your un-honorable death was a failure as well.” Shuur was taken aback, he was dead? How was that possible?
“Hehehe, you look confused Shuur’Makhanee,” the farthest right Prophet now spoke, “This is the council of the dead, and we deem you un-worthy for the great journey!”
Shuur was now truly afraid, “NO, you cannot do this! I am honorable, I have slain many!” The prophets now laughed at him as well, the center spoke again.
“Yes but all of your kills are un-honorable as well, a shadow kill is not honorable because you never truly challenge your enemy.”
“But I have killed with direct confrontation!”Shuur’s voice was shaky.
The Prophets laughed again, “Or do you mean that you were killed with direct confrontation?”
“I had not seen him come from behind me!” Shuur said, beginning to become angry with the Prophets Judgement.
The Prophets stopped laughing, “That is the excuse of a liar and coward, come now face your sentence with courage!” and with those words the world disappeared to Shuur as he was now falling towards a hellish landscape.
Fire and magma burned the ground, as seemingly endless oceans of lava crashed against his personnel hell. The land was craggy and red, large spires of spikes rose from the ground, odd flowers that sprayed a yellow gas dotted the landscape. As Shuur landed, he noticed that he was not wearing his armor, or any clothing at all. He let a roar of defiance loose from his maw, this could not be happening, this was not the way he was to end! Shuur continued to roar until he had no breath left. As he breathed the air scorched his lungs, causing him to try to breathe less by holding his breath. But even as he did so, he felt the air get hotter inside him, until he was forced to breath out, as he did his breath caught aflame, burning his mandibles, and upper jaw. He roared once more as he felt light headed.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Shuur awoke screaming. He looked around, finding out that he was still in the barn. Shuur sighed, I’m still in equestria thought Shuur, Was that a message from the great ones, or am I going crazy? A voice broke his stupor.
“What in tarnations was that!?!”
Shuur suddenly remembered that he was still in the barn owned by ponies that had not yet discovered him. He quickly activated his cloak, just as Applejack opened the barn doors. She continued to enter and look around whilst Shuur made headway to his primary exit. Just as Applejack finished her search, Shuur crept out the front door, which was still open due to Applejacks hasty entry. Shuur quickly made his way to the orchard of fruit bearing trees. He soon picked up on a loud noise just south of his position. To him it sounded like gunshots so he quickly made his way towards the sound, hoping to prove he could kill with direct confrontation. Soon enough a red dot appeared on his motion tracker. He followed to the location, getting ready to draw his sword, when he spotted his would be target.
In front of him was a large red pony, easily taller than anything he had encountered thus far. He quickly drew his hand away from his sword. He had a ‘cutie mark’ of a green version of the fruit, including a chunk missing, showing its inside. He hated the term on mention, what honor was there getting a cutie mark on your posterior when you found your talent? It was more an embarrassment than an honor to Shuur. He continued to observe the large red pony noting the differences, it was easily taller than any other equine, and it was also a duller red than anything else. Another noticeable change was that it had a more boxy snout, and its eyes were smaller in entire body comparison. Shuur watched in wonder as the pony moved four empty baskets underneath of a tree.
What are you doing now? He pondered as he watched the pony move to one side of the tree before giving a swift buck, causing the sound he had heard before, and also causing all of the apples to fall into the baskets.
Shuur was no longer as stricken when he watched the event occur, but still a little shaken. He continued his surveying of the pony, observing that each time he kicked; it was facing horizontally from his stand point, like a two-dimension animation. His thoughts were drawn from his mind as Applejack came trotting up. “Hey Big Mac, you seen anything strange crawlin’ round here?”
Big Mac gave a simple, yet definant, “Nope.”
After his answer Applejack continued her trot towards the town. After she left Big Mac commented, “Darn critters got my sister on the run again.” He continued his assault on the trees, making each one drop its red fruit. He had also spied that Applejack had a similar cutie mark. He guessed that she took care of the trees, while her bulkier brother picked their fruit.
After concluding that the pony was not about to switch tactics, he began his trek towards the road Applejack had continued down. Upon finding the road, he followed her red dot on his motion tracker. Deciding to try to find the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Shuur headed towards the dot. Once Shuur reached the village, he noted that Ponyville was much more of a day town than a night town. Ponies of all shapes, breeds and colors trotted about to their daily business, ponies attended small stalls, and others trotted into shops and businesses. As Shuur continued his spying he spotted his targets, three small fillies, one mounting a scooter, the other two riding in a wagon to the rear. As Shuur observed further he learned an interesting fact: they were headed straight for him.
Shuur soon found himself cursing his lack of cover as they collided head on with him. His shields flared and died, leaving him vulnerable to the air born yellow and white projectiles flying from the wagon. Shuur soon found himself covered in pony, and was not amused by this. He quickly moved to hide himself before his shields recharged and gave away his position. As he looked back, he chuckled slightly, where he had once been, now stood three very confused fillies, and a crowd of worried ponies. Shuur found his cover in a nearby bush, just as his shields flickered to life. He continued to watch and wait until the crowd dispersed before coming to the recovering fillies. Even after the collision and general panic, they had already figured out what they hit and they waited, expecting looks on their faces.
He crept over to the group and spoke, “Sorry little ones, I had not anticipated your, arrival. ” Scootaloo answered to the shadow.
“Well at least you apologized, but it’s kinda hard to watch out for an invisible alien.”
Shuur chuckled again, deep and rough, “We should not speak here, you will look like fools.” Scootaloo was about to retort when Sweetie Belle spoke up.
“He’s right, we already have bystanders.”
Scootaloo looked up to find that a couple of ponies were looking at her with looks of concern. She sighed and watched for the shadow to move. Shuur saw this as his queue and proceeded to lead the fillies to a nearby alley.
When they reached said alley Shuur uncloaked, “Again I apologize for earlier, I was busy watching the citizens of the town.”
Scootaloo was first to respond, “You really scared us back there! Do you know what it’s like to collide head on with a wall of light?” Shuur cringed slightly, Scootaloo continued, “What was that anyway, the light thing?”
Shuur knelt to answer, not liking to tower over his only contacts, “My shields, now I must add you were going an impressive speed to drain them completely.” Scootaloo was caught in between pride and anger.
“You mean you raised a shield, but you didn’t try to move?” Shuur nodded.
“No, I have a special set of shields enveloping my person at all times to protect me from my enemies.”
Scootaloo seemed to calm down a little, “Okay but watch out next time, move please.” Shuur nodded in approval.
“I shall; now I assume you were coming to see me?”
Apple Bloom stepped in, “Yes we were Mister Elite, we were wonderin’ what you ate?”
Shuur had thought about it for a while, he had been too busy as of late to realize how hungry he was. Shuur looked at Apple Bloom before answering, “I am omnivorous, meaning I eat both plant matter, and animal matter.” Shuur feared their reactions slightly; he knew they were herbivorous because of their equine appearance. He was surprised to hear Scootaloo whisper to Sweetie Belle.
“Told ya so.”
Apple Bloom nodded, “So would an apple be alright?”
Suddenly Shuur was taken aback, “You would offer one of your own for me?” Now it was Apple Blooms turn to be surprised.
“What!?! No no no, I mean the fruit, you know, apples? Grow on trees, all over Sweet apple acres ?”
Shuur was now rather embarrassed, “Sorry I have not heard of such apples, I assume that the name of your homestead was a gimmick towards your family’s behavior.”
“Sorry, I should have probably told you that.” Apple Bloom giggled.
Shuur soon raised a hand in alarm. “I’m sorry others are coming our way.” Shuur cloaked much to the ponies chagrin. They looked back to a see a group of six well-known ponies pass, who spotted them and then turned and walked their way. Apple Bloom looked on the ground to find the shadow gone. Relieved, she turned back to face the group. Shuur had simply moved behind a building, and was looking around the corner to listen to them. The lavender one spoke first.
“Hi girls, what are you doing back here?” Shuur did not recognize any of them, apart from Applejack. He assumed this must have been a group of her friends.
Scootaloo spoke up, “We’re, um, trying to get our cutie marks in alley way sweeping, yah, that’s it, alley sweeping!”
Shuur face palmed, what a stupid answer, he was caught for sure. Then the lavender one spoke again, here it comes.
“Alright well, have you guys heard or saw anything strange lately?”
Shuur could not believe what his ear speakers were telling him, she believed that? Really, she did? Shuur concluded that either this mare was slightly dumber than the rest, or it was his lucky day.
“Nope, not a thing, why?” answered Scootaloo, slightly relieved.
“Well Applejack was walking out to help Big Mac with apple bucking when the said she heard screams coming from the barn.” Scootaloo noticeably cringed, which the mare still didn’t catch onto. “Well, good to see you girls again, bye!” The lavender one began walking away,
“Bye Twilight!” the three responded in unison.
After Twilight left, her group in tow, Shuur watched his motion tracker to make sure they were a considerable distance away. Once they were ten meters beyond the alleys mouth, he rejoined the Crusaders.
He promptly un-cloaked as they turned to question him further, “What did she mean screams Elite?” asked Apple Bloom. Shuur answered quickly his hunger increasing noticeably.
“Even aliens have nightmares.”
Apple Bloom sighed in relief, “I thought you’d gone killed a pony.” Shuur responded annoyance present in his voice.
“No I had not killed a pony, I tend to try to keep my allies alive.”
“Sorry fer assuming there Mister Elite, it’s just that after hearing you eat meat…” Apple Bloom blushed, as Shuur waved a hand.
“Worry not little one, I understand, you have the right to be afraid of me you know.” Apple Bloom perked up a little.
“I know, it’s just you’ve become a good friend is such a short time, that I just felt a little guilty is all.”
Shuur paused for a moment, Friend, did she say friend? Shuur understood the concept, some Sangheili attained friends from their training courses. It had not occurred to him that you could gain friends outside of the military, which was a Sangheili’s way of life.
Apple Bloom caught onto his pause though, “Aw come on, you have to have heard of friendship as an alien right?” Apple Bloom brought Shuur out of his thoughts.
“Yes I have, but it happens seldom where I come from.”
At the mention of how often friends occurred, the three gasped, “You mean you don’t have any friends?”
Shuur nodded, “No, in my line of work, you seldom often get to know your squad.”
The Cutie Mark Crusaders stood agape for a moment longer before huddling into a small group, and proceeded near un-hearable whispers. After a short while they broke out cheering.
“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS, FRIENDSHIP TEACHERS YAY!!!”
Shuur was having none of this, “No, simple as that, no friendship teaching of any kind.” But the Crusaders were relentless.
“Please Mister Elite, please?” they all sang out in unison.
“As I said before, no.”
“Please?”
“no.”
“Pleeeease?”
“No.”
“Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeease???”
“NO! I said NO, what part of that do you not comprehended?!?”
But even as Shuur yelled at them, he looked down only to find his demise waiting. The three of them had huddled close together, all of them bared humungous glittering eyes that a Jiralhanae would have had a hard time resisting. As he looked upon them, he sighed heavily,
“Very well, you may teach me about this, friendship .” Just then Shuur’s stomach growled, causing the Crusaders to take a step back in fear. Shuur chuckled, “But first can we grab something to eat, I am truly hungry.” The three nodded, relieved that it was only his stomach. For a while they thought he really was a thing in the barn.
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Chapter three - friendship for the un-educated
Chapter 3 – Friendship for the un-educated.
After Shuur agreed to take friendship lessons from the Cutie Mark Crusaders, they decided they would all get something to eat. So the would be teachers and their less than amused student headed out to Sweet Apple Acres. Upon arrival Apple Bloom Got them all some apples, in which Shuur took happily. Unfolding the bottom of his helmet he slid an apple between his helmets siding and bit down. Never before had he tasted something so sweet, juicy and crisp. He liked these apples, and thanked Apple Bloom before asking for more. Shuur was beginning to like this planet. Apple Bloom was just happy that he liked them; it would not have been a good day if he disliked the apples. The results would most likely mean getting him carrots, in which they had a fierce rivalry, no matter what the others said.
As Shuur munched on the apples he was provided he began to realize his plan to get the ponies to join the Covenant was forfeit because he lacked a way to contact the Covenant. He also noted that basket of apples was becoming shockingly low. Did he really like them that much? Sure they were delicious, but Shuur was no glutton. He looked down to the shiny red fruit, Shuur thought of eating this one as well, but thought better of it when he saw the Crusaders faces. Though they could not see it, Shuur clicked his mandibles in embarrassment; he promptly put the fruit back into the basket. He gazed around the barn before speaking up, “So are my, lessons , to begin here, or did you have someplace else in mind?”
Scootaloo spoke, “We could take you back to the club house, and it would probably be more private there.” Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle nodded in agreement.
“Well then it is settled, my lessons are to begin in your club house.” With that note they all rose and began to make their way to the door before Shuur stopped. He then looked down at the fillies, “Apologies, a group of ponies is coming, I suggest you think of an excuse quickly.” With those words Shuur cloaked as the crusaders turned to greet their unexpected visitor. Soon enough the doors were pushed open and the same group as earlier made their way inside.
“Ah told ya, the sound came from in here and, Apple Bloom what ‘er you and yer friends doing here?”
Apple Bloom gave a sheepish grin, “Well since we didn’t get our cutie marks in alley sweepin’, we thought we’d try barn sweepin’.”
Applejack gave her a hard look before turning, “Well anyway we had better start our investigation here, ain’t nowhere else that there been them noises.” Twilight moved forward.
“Alright Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, you two check the higher levels,” The cyan and yellow Pegasi nodded before taking flight. “Applejack, Pinkie pie, you two look for any disturbances on the ground.” Applejack and the fluffy pink pony nodded as well, starting their search. “Rarity and I will look for any magical disturbances, in case this thing is powerful.” A pearly white unicorn’s horn began to glow, and Twilight’s joined hers like wise.
As they searched, Shuur found it a good time to make his exit. But as he turned, he found himself looking straight into Pinkie pie’s blue eyes. Shuur froze, Not again, the last time this happened, I died! As if reading his thoughts, she smiled and proceeded to bounce away.
Applejack found the now near depleted apple basket, “What were you girls doin’ with a full basket of apples?” She turned to the Crusaders, who answered in a stutter.
“We…well… um… barn sweepin’ makes us all real hungry.” Applejack was not convinced.
“There were enough apples in this here basket to turn the three of ya into apples.”
Shuur, looked back at them, This was it, I’m truly done. Just when he was sure that all hope was lost, Pinkie Pie spoke.
“Hey over here, come see this!”
Applejack broke away from the girls, the rest of the group turned to see Pinkie’s discovery. Shuur sighed in relief. Was she helping him? He continued to scale a wall, and then jump up to a rafter. He looked down at her discovery, his pile of hay.
Twilight walked up to the pile, scanning it with her horn light. Magic, of course they have magic, why not? This entire planet was one big Sangheili child’s dream world. As she concluded she began to speak,
“Well it’s not magical, but it’s a shape I haven’t seen before,” she turned to the yellow one, “Fluttershy, do you know what kind of animal could make this shape?”
Fluttershy moved slowly to the hay pile, then proceeded to examine it, “No, but it looks like it was heavy, and tall.” Just as she finished, the beam Shuur was on creaked. All at once they looked up to see nothing there, then Twilight’s horn glowed again. As she did so, her eyes glowed a soft magenta color before she gasped. Shuur had not expected that she had a way to see him.
“Gi… girls, there’s something tall, heavy, and invisible watching us.” The first to react was Rainbow dash, charging Shuur so fast he didn’t have time to react.
As she hit him, his shields flared and lost eighty percent power. He also found himself falling backwards from the force. As he did he reached and caught the beam in his left hand. He looked back to find Rainbow looking for him, “Where are you yah big invisible monster!” Shuur cringed at the use of the term monster, but was quick to start swinging back and forth as he remembered his shields. As he did Twilight called out.
“It’s swinging back and forth on the same beam!”
Rainbow Dash turned around and charged Shuur again, but this time he was ready. Using the momentum he had built up he swung on top of the beam, just as Rainbow Dash flew under him, directly into a wall. Twilight cringed.
“Sorry, it just swung on top of the rafter.”
Rainbow Dash slid down the wall before recovering, and as she did Shuur made for his secondary exit.
“Rainbow, lookout it’s moving towards the window!” cried Twilight.
Rainbow reacted quickly, instantly making her way to the window. As Shuur saw this he changed course for his tri-failure exit: making a hole in the wall. He reached to his belt and took off a small blue orb, arming it. It let out a satisfying whine as he threw it at the wall farthest from the ponies. It stuck to the wall, forming a small energy field around it before exploding violently, burning a hole in the wall. He cringed as he saw other parts beginning to set fire; Apple Bloom would not be pleased. He then jumped down and began to sprint, deactivating his cloak as it would do no good at this speed. He heard gasps as he fully uncloaked, he also heard yelling as someone commanded for water. Just as he began to enter the Ever Frees tree line something appeared to be moving at impossible speeds towards him, his motion tracker must have been malfunctioning. He found himself as incorrect as a cyan ball struck him in the back, screaming in pain as his shields died from the blow.
“Ow, GAH, What the BUCK!” yelled a tomboyish voice witch Shuur assumed was Rainbow Dash.
He continued his sprint as he began to see the tree’s thickening, each one closing the gap in which he could run.
”Yes run, run like a coward who has no honor, like you.”
Shuur shook his head, he was not about to attack possible allies.
”You said it yourself, there is no way to recruit them, what purpose do they pose?” Shuur again shook his head, this voice was not his own,
”They showed me hospitality when they had no reason, that is why.”
The voice chuckled, “Is that all they are to you, your caretakers?”
Shuur slowed down, he was a considerable distance in, “No they are not my caretakers, they are my, ‘friends’” The voice now laughed heartily.
“Do friends try to capture the other? Do friends try to burn down one another’s barns with blue fire? Do friends spy on each other with illusion magic?” It was Shuurs turn to chuckle.
“You don’t know who or what I am do you?” The voice was silent as Shuur laughed, ”You really should do your research before choosing a target to try to tamper with.” The voice spoke again, annoyance present in its voice.
“Very well Mister Elite, I concede, you are harder to tamper with than I thought when I brought you here.”
Shuur stopped running, “So you are responsible for my coming here, and not letting me join my kind in the great journey!” The voice’s tone had changed to one of mockery.
“Yes, in fact I am What are you going to do about it?”
Shuur used his true voice, in his native tongue, “I will hunt you down and find you, obviously you want me to hurt these ponies, and so you are now my enemy.”
The voice laughed again, “What was that? Some native throat gurgles meant to scare me, HAH! What a riot you are.” Shuur looked behind him to make sure no one followed, then spoke again in English.
“My native tongue, by the way, you are now my target.”
The voice continued merrily, “How precious, now if you will excuse me I have to activate my plan B. Oh and I think you’ll quite enjoy it.” With that, Shuur felt like a pair of eyes had stopped watching him.
He sighed, Well that explains my coming here. Shuur growled, What nerve, to bring me here upon death. I will defy him with every breath this body takes!
Unfortunately Shuur heard the result of his roar, “Mister Elite, is that you!?!” Shuur heard the shout from his left, he checked his motion sensor, sure enough there were three red dots moving towards him now. Shuur cloaked, just in case Rainbow Dash was sitting on standby. He crept towards the dots, and then he noticed the six red dots in tow. He unfurled his mandibles in rage; his own friends would betray him? Then Apple Bloom spoke again.
“Mister Elite, we got everybody calmed down, they’re even ready to talk to you now!”
Shuur calmed down, finally some diplomacy. This was cut short by the sounds of howls; Shuur looked to his motion tracker, disturbed to see it mostly covered in red dots now. He stood and yelled to his friends.
“There are thing all around us, I count nineteen.”
He heard a gasp come from Fluttershy, “Oh, oh my there hasn’t ever been a recording of nineteen Timber Wolves in one pack ever.”
Shuur saw that they were all slightly unnerved by this. Then he got a look at one of these, Timber Wolves coming across a path on their far side. It appeared to be made of wood, Shuur thought of this as a clever camouflage made through evolution. As he approached further, he saw that the ponies had made their way to a clearing. He walked towards them, rustling the bushes slightly as he did. This alerted the ponies as they all came to face a shadow, though hard to see in the dimming light of their sun. Again Twilight lit her horn and her eyes glowed the same magenta light.
The purple unicorn sighed, “It’s only Elite, don’t worry.”
“He darn near burned down mah barn with a blue ball, we have every right to be worried.” Applejack spoke up.
Apple Bloom looked at her sister, “Ah told yah, you just frightened him is all.”
Shuur was about to retort to Apple Blooms comment on his fears when another howl erupted from the woods. Fluttershy suddenly hid in the middle of the group.
“Tha…that was the attack howl.”
Shuur made his way towards the group at a quickened pace. He did not wish for them to be harmed by predators. Just as Shuur reached the group, he saw a wolf jump out of the woods; its glowing eyes caught him off guard, Perhaps it is an adaptation for low light? Soon another joined it, then another, and another. After a surprisingly short while, they were completely surrounded. Twilight looked at Shuur,
“Hey Elite, if you have any more tricks up your sleeves, now would be an appreciated time to use them.”
“Very well Miss Twilight, I shall.” Shuur chuckled. With those words the armor clad alien de-cloaked, causing everyone but the crusaders to gasp again. Once he finished he placed his hands on his sword and plasma rifle, noting that the line of timber wolves were now looking at each other in fear. He looked at the now revolving line of timber wolves, “Well if you are going to attack us, do so now.” He caught a disapproving look from Rarity but turned his thoughts to the battlefield. Just as he did, one of the wolves charged, rallying the rest of the pack to join.
Shuur drew his sword and plasma rifle. His sword activated with a hiss as it extended, while his plasma rifle gave a gentle whur upon equipping it. He let out a war cry before charging the wolf right back. He heard shouts behind him as the ponies cried their own war cries, which were cute compared to his. Once he reached the wolf he gave a simple strong swipe as his sword cut through it with ease, the heat of the blade ignited it. He heard whimpers and shouts behind him guessing that the ponies preferred not to kill. Oh well, their loss. He danced across the battlefield, cutting down any wolf foolish enough to approach him, and firing his plasma rifle at the ones who kept their distance. After there were only four left, the wolves made the decision that the tender ponies were definitely not worth it. They began their retreat, whimpering as plasma bolts stroked them.
Soon he let out a cry of victory, and stowed his weapons. He turned to face his allies, only to find them huddling around a form. Shuur felt a knot tie itself into his stomach. Lying on the ground was Apple Bloom, a large gash formed on her right foreleg, running from the top to the bottom, bone exposed in the center. He saw that Applejack was crying, but only his visor showed that she was alive.
“Move out of the way, she lives and we must get her medical attention at once!” He yelled to the ponies huddling around Apple Bloom.
Applejack looked up to him, “How can yah tell?” her voice dripping with sorrow. Shuur didn’t listen.
“That is not important what is important however is that she lives and must get to medical at once.”
Twilight looked up, “I’m sorry Elite but I used most of my energy in the fight, I don’t have the strength to teleport us to the hospital.” Shuur clicked his mandibles in annoyance.
“Then I shall take her, witch way is Ponyville from here?” “You ain’t touching her, you monster!” Applejack stood.
Shuur yelled back, “Every moment we wait is another my friend lays on the ground bleeding to death! Now which way to ponyville?”
Applejack softened up, she pointed her hoof to the east. “Ponyville’s that way, please hurry Elite.”
Shuur nodded, he moved in and picked up Apple Bloom. Pointing himself towards the east with his compass, he began to run as fast as he could towards Ponyville. As he dashed through the trees, he thought the only good thing that came out of today was that he missed his friendship for the un-educated lessons.
Ooh, there’s a cliff hanger for yah, or at least it is for me. Any who thought I’d answer the question: how did he get here, though I didn’t answer who brought him. I also might show what said mystery guy’s plan B is in the next chapter, though I might also show it two chapters from now. I don’t know, it all depends on how long the Reach campaign is. (SPOILERS!)
Chapter four - Bigger problems
Chapter four – Bigger Problem
Shuur ran as fast as his digitigrade legs would carry him. His friend was bleeding out, to anything else blood was a life line, to the Sangheili blood was honor. When a Sangheili warrior loses too much honor, said warrior dies. He began to see the village up ahead, he was close. Hold on little one, you shall not perish. Shuur was inside the town now, not even caring if the citizens saw him anymore. He saw a sterile white building growing in the distance, the red cross at the top symbolizing his destination.
Shuur didn’t even try to open the doors, he simply went through them. After the initial confusion, he laid Apple Bloom on the counter and looked at the shocked mare behind the desk, “This little one needs medical care, I trust that this is the purpose of this building?”
The white mare nodded before she reached a shaking hoof to push a button. “T… trauma team to lobby please, trauma team to lobby.”
Shuur heard her voice appear throughout the complex. Shuur stared holes into her, “Make sure she receives proper treatment.” The white mare nodded before promptly passing out. Well at least she held that long , Shuur thought to himself A miracle she didn’t simply scream and run, come to think of it… Shuur looked around the room, soon realizing that there were about thirteen others watching his every move.
Shuur stared back, until he heard the sounds of hooves flying across the linoleum tiles. He promptly cloaked, not wanting to delay the ones who would be taking care of his friend. This was followed by a chorus of gasps as he finished, now simply a shadow with no owner. As the ponies stared in shock and awe, a stretcher burst through a free swinging door trailed by four ponies. A Chesnutt brown Pegasus ran up to Apple Blooms still frame, and gaped at what he saw. He instantly began barking orders.
“Red Heart, get a bottle of disinfectant, Blue cross, give me the trauma kit!” The ponies began movement as soon as their names were called; he watched the earth pony gently pick up Apple Bloom. After getting help from the remaining unicorn, he watched as she took Apple Bloom from the doctors grasp with magic and laid her on the stretcher.
As they sped off in the same corridor they came from, he sighed with relief. She was going to be fine, albeit a little less honorable. Though I should probably check on the others. Shuur made his way towards the door, noticing some of the ponies watching his moving shadow. He increased his speed, wishing to leave the wretched place, Sangheili hated hospitals. It was a place the un-honorable came to lose more honor from being sliced and spilling blood. That was the reason that not many Sangheili chose a different path than a warrior’s path. Being called ‘honor takers’ was not a thing many creatures would like being called if you saved lives. Shuur knew that Apple Bloom had not seen honorable combat, but she had an honorable job. Providing food allowed for such glorious combat to happen, so Apple Bloom was an actual provider of honor. This meant she would have been held in high regard by the Sangheili, no matter how small.
Shuur was outside now; the darkness covered his shadow making him absolutely traceless, if you didn’t have magical glowing purple eyeballs. Shuur sighed, or infrared, or hearing amps, or looked for his large footprints. He supposed he wasn’t completely traceless, but still hard to spot. He made his way to the place he exited the forest, now seeing the rest of the ponies and the remaining Crusaders. As he made his way to the now honorable ponies, he heard someone new speak.
“Now I heard that a creature came running into the hospital carrying a filly, it might just be the thing we’re looking for.” Shuur looked behind him, another Chesnut brown pony, this time earthen and with an hourglass cutie mark. The grey pegasus beside the brown one made Shuur wonder what had happened to its eyes. They were both facing opposite directions, along with a scrunched face to add to the confusion.
“What did they mean creature, Doctor?” Shuur heard the wall-eyed one speak, her voice matching her appearance, slightly off for some reason.
The Doctor looked to the grey pegasus, “They said it was bipedal, asking for medical assistance, and then turned invisible.” The Doctor shuddered, “They mean actually turn invisible, meaning a working cloaking system! I mean at least that’s what the screwdriver says, maybe just another wonder of this world.” The unnamed grey one nodded.
“Well I haven’t heard of any kind of bipedal monster that can turn invisible at will, so you got me stumped.”
The Doctor nodded, “Well then Ditzy we have a mystery to solve!” Ditzy nodded again more vigorously this time, and then took off, Straight for Shuur. He sighed, Here we go again.
Ditzy crashed directly into Shuur, causing his shields to flare to 67% power. The Doctor didn’t miss it and soon pulled out a small long brass tube thing that glowed green at the end. Shuur felt funny, that and his visor was getting fuzzy:
-WARNING SONIC INTERFERENCE
-WARNING SONIC INTERFERENCE
-SHIELDS LOSING POWER
-CLOAK LOSING POWER
-WARNING ALL POWER GOING OFFLINE
-H.U.D. LOSING POWER, SUGGEST REMOVAL AND REPLACEMENAFDSDFGHN,A.
Shuur watched in horror as his entire suit lost power, like a plasma pistol at full charge was fired at him, only more staggered. He soon watched as Ditzy’s eyes widened as he lost cloak, and all power for that matter. The Doctor kept his sonic weapon trained on Shuur, keeping his power offline in turn.
“Stand back Ditzy, I believe we have our monster.” Ditzy did as she was told walking back to The Doctors side. “Now, you are going to answer some questions.”
“What is that? Who are you, and how is it draining my power?” Shuur retorted.
The Doctor nodded, “No not me, you, you sir are going to answer some similar questions.” Shuur did not like this pony, rendering him next to blind, and then asking him questions he didn’t want to answer.
The Doctor looked at his helmet, “First, what are you? I don’t believe I have encountered a digitigrade red armored alien before.” Shuur clicked his mandibles in annoyance.
“I do not exactly trust you with that knowledge. Though you may call me-”
“Mister Elite!”
He looked to his left, seeing Scootaloo leading a charge of ponies his way. They soon all stood in his defence, even the six he just met. The Doctor stopped his sonic attack.
“What are you all doing here?” He looked a little shocked to see the six.
“We are defending the guy who just saved us, that’s what!” cried Rainbow Dash. Now The Doctor looked a slightly concerned.
“He saved you?”
Twilight nodded, “Yes, from a record sized pack of Timber Wolves no less.”
Shuurs HUD flickered, he sighed again, the damage was not permanent.
-SONIC INTERFERENCE CEASED
-SHIELDS 12% +
-CLOAK RECHARGED
-MAIN POWER ONLINE
-H.U.D. POWER RESTORED
Shuur stood to his full height, The Doctor watched him rise the entire time. He looked at the Crusaders, then the rest of the group.
“Thank you little ones, he has some kind of sonic weapon, interfering with my armors power transfer.” The Doctor looked hurt.
“Weapon? No no no, the sonic screwdriver is not a weapon; it is just a very versatile tool is all.”
Shuur chuckled, “The only thing that has ever drained my shields has been a weapon.” Shuur thought back for a moment, “Until today.” He looked down at Scootaloo, who stared right back.
“Like I said, it’s hard to avoid an invisible alien.”
Shuur nodded, she was right. He then turned to The Doctor, “You Doctor, said that you had been looking for something. Why?” The Doctor pulled out a paper from seemingly nowhere, handing it to Shuur. He took it in a four digit hand, which seemed to fascinate The Doctor. Shuur looked at it before he handed it back, “It’s blank.”
The doctor took it in a hoof, “No it isn’t, how can you do that?” Shuur tapped his helmet.
“My HUD has experimental perception filters, for when a complex has a special defense system.”
The Doctor was now impressed for but a second, “Wait, defense systems, are you some sort of alien infiltrator?”
“That Doctor, is confidential.” Shuur said, kneeling to The Doctors height, The Doctor was intrigued.
“On whose orders?”
Shuur continued his stare down, “In the event of capture, or stranding a Spec Op agent is to take his life, or to never speak but be stripped of rank.” He stood at his full height, “And I have already died on Reach.” The Doctor lost his confidence.
“Can, can you regenerate?”
Shuur laughed, “My kind possesses a faster healing rate than others, but we cannot simply regain lost limbs!” The Doctor Chuckled.
“Yes well, what do you mean then?”
Shuur looked down on the little pony, “I mean I received a knife to my brain during my mission and awoke here.”
“Well that’s interesting, quite interesting indeed.” The Doctor smiled.
Shuur turned to see the pony’s reaction, he had not told them at all. He turned to see several stunned faces, and a single not so stunned Pinkie Pie.
“You what?” asked Twilight. Shuur looked at her.
“To put any simpler would be hard; I died.”
Twilight shook her head, “No, you couldn’t have, I mean that’s impossible. Right?”
Shuur nodded, “It is, though if it’s any consolation, before our battle I spoke with an odd voice in my head telling me that he brought me here.” The Doctor turned his head.
“Now I believe you are mad. Wonderful, just when I thought your kind was interesting as well.” Shuur gave an angered growl.
“Never insult a Sangheili to his face again, or I shall see to it that you are eradicated.”
The Doctor actually looked a little shaken, before realizing, “Sangheili, never heard of them. Must be a rather isolated people, or this is really another dimension, not just a new body.” The Doctor and Shuur looked at each other realizing they had released rather sensitive knowledge about one another, before they both cursed in their native tongue.
Twilight stared at them both in shock, “What, and what now?” Shuur was first to recover.
“I shall speak no more about any interplanetary questions. Now would you instead like to hear about the voice, or are you too convinced that this planet has driven me to insanity?” Twilight nodded.
“It’s not the first time somepony has had voices in their head, let’s hear it.”
There was a chorus of agreement before Shuur nodded, “Very well, how to describe it, hmm. Well one thing is that it was male, snarky, said he had a plan B when I refused to help him, and sounded, erm, chaotic.” Twilight sighed on the end of the description with a look of shock and disappointment , “The Princess will not like that news, though she must be told. I suppose it can wait, but we better get home for some rest, I am tired.” Again there was a chorus of agreement, and a single yawn.
Applejack perked up all of a sudden, “Wait, Elite how was Apple Bloom when you got her to the hospital?”
Shuur looked at the orange cowpony, “She was in bad shape, but a trauma team arrived to pick her up shortly.”
Applejack sighed with relief. “Ah just hope she’ll be alright. That was a right nasty gash.”
Shuur nodded, “Yes perhaps we can go see her tomorrow, the Crusaders and me.”
Applejack nodded as well, “Well I suppose you can stay in… our… barn.” She shot a poisonous look at Shuur, “You just about burned our barn down with that blue doohickey, plan on paying us back soon?”
Shuur pondered for a moment, “Sorry, I was desperate to leave. Plasma has a tendency to burn very well; I am used to metal or stone buildings. I suppose I would not mind working for you, so long as I keep my place to stay.” Apple jack thought for a while before sticking out a hoof.
“Sounds like a deal. Pet ‘er there.”
Shuur knelt down and shook the ponies hoof, “Very well, I shall now work for you, and refrain from the use of plasma weaponry near the property.”
Twilight broke up the happy moment, “Wait Plasma? Your people have mastered the use of plasma? You just HAVE to tell me how it works!” Shuur stood, looking at the purple mare.
“No.”
With that note, he cloaked and began to move towards Sweet Apple acres.
“You can’t hide Elite, I know where you sleep!”
Shuur shuddered at the thoughts of being attacked while slumbering; he decided to use his sleep time difference to his advantage this night. As they reached the farm gates Shuur un-cloaked, “Very well I shall be off to my quarters, good night Applejack.”
Apple jack tipped down her hat, “Likewise Elite. G’night!” Shuur walked over to his sleeping quarters. As he opened the doors, he saw the extent of his damage. Not only had the hole gotten bigger, he also saw small piles of ash that was once hay. He also saw that one of the beams was scorched, but not burnt away.
He sighed; using his sword to cut a hole would have been wiser. Now there was no protection from the wind, or a bad rainstorm. He found his old pile of hay, squat then sat down in the crunchy material. Here he was, a Sangheili warrior elite, sitting on an uncharted planet, in a pile of hay, in a burned barn, with a sleep cycle starting well into the night of this planets usual time. He sat a while longer wondering, Where did I go wrong with my life that the holy ones saw it fit to place me on this rock. Shuur shook his head before laying down, For starters you died His mind went back to the Spartan on Reach, He hoped he fared horribly. With the thoughts of the demon being surrounded by suicidal Unggoy bearing Plasma grenades, Shuur dozed off. Little did he know on a planet far far away, A certain Noble Six was wrapping up some Phantoms.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ) On said planet…
Six heard a voice crackle to life in his helmet.
“Good gunning Spartan, all stations brace for cast off.” Six climbed down the MAC cannons ladder, watching the ‘Pillar of Autumn’ make its get away. “This is the Pillar of Autumn, we’re away. The package is with us.”
Six climbed off the ladder, walking slowly to his inevitable doom. He detached his favored DMR, holding the rifles black casing within his grip. He was in control now, not some idiot who didn’t know a thing about combat. Who constantly made him use enemy weapons and run directly at hunters. No he was in control now, and he planned to keep it that way.
He began to march towards a now ruined base, where a squad of marines made their last stand. He saw a Phantom overhead, as it began firing concussion rounds at him. He sprinted for cover, but not before it drained his shields, and cracked his visor. He opened up on the Covenant ground forces, hoping to snuff out his light, probably the last human on Reach. His gun clicked empty. He ran for a small bluff, hoping to get some cover while he reloaded. He found no such solace. He gripped his helmet, hearing a satisfying whine and hiss; he threw the now broken helmet to the ground. He soon learned that was a mistake as a squad of Elite troopers made their way to him. He fought tooth and nail, duel wielding an MA37 ICWS and a M6C Magnum. But both clips ran dry, and soon he found himself kicking away the Elites, until he saw a Zealot activate his wrist dagger, then whiteout.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ) Meanwhile in Equestria.
It was just yesterday that Apple Bloom was out of it, with a huge bleeding gash in her leg. Now Shuur was amazed to be escorting all three girls the next day, back into the Ever Free. They may have been primitive, but their medical skills were undeniably good.
“Hey Mister Elite?”
Shuur looked down at Apple Bloom, who still had a scar and a limp, but was otherwise in good shape.
“Yes little one, what is it you require?”
Apple Bloom smiled, “Is it really true you carried me all the way back to the hospital after the Timber Wolves attacked?” Shuur was a little shocked.
“Has no one told you yet? Gah, obviously not, but yes it is true. I did carry you back to the hospital.” Apple Bloom beamed.
“Well thanks ah lot, let’s just call it even.”
Shuur was confused, “Even? I was unaware I had a debt.”
Apple Bloom rolled her eyes, “You lit mah barn on fire.” She stated plainly. Shuur chuckled.
“Ah, yes that. I believed that being a ‘farm hoof’ would suffice.” Apple Bloom looked up to their guardian.
“Well that’s paying back mah sister, but you still had to make it up to me.”
Shuur shrugged, “Good to see I did so even unintentionally.” Scootaloo spoke up.
“Sorry to break up the lovely comments, but remember why we’re here?”
Sweetie Belle looked at Scootaloo, “Why are we here again?”
Scootaloo let loose an exasperated sigh, “We’re here to get our cutie marks as floral cataloguers. DUH!” Sweetie Belle took a look of anger.
“Well I am sorry if you just came up with the plan yourself without discussing it with us!”
As the two of them began to bicker, Shuur saw a sudden flash of white light ahead. “Girls stay here and don’t move.”
Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo stopped at once hearing the seriousness in his voice. “What’s wrong Mister Elite?” asked Apple Bloom innocently.
“I don’t know, but I do not want anyone hurt again.”
Apple bloom nodded, and joined the rest of the girls underneath a nearby bushel. Shuur activated his cloak, creeping towards the flashes point of origin. As he moved closer, he noted the lack of animal noises in the area. Shuur crept silently closer, and closer. He soon reached a clearing he recognized, the one he had arrived in. Only now a figure of steel grey lay in the center. He immediately recognized the form, the demon that had killed him. How ironic, I shall end him with his own tactics then. Suddenly the figure, squirmed. Shuur stopped in his tracks, That was quick. Shuur ‘smiled’ I shall observe him, see how he reacts. It may just be humorous. Shuur moved to position himself close enough to the Crusaders so he may assist, and still have a good view of the demon. He sat down and waited.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Six’s head was pounding. Wait, pounding? He looked up from the ground to find himself in a forest. Six was now utterly confused, why was he in a forest? Reach didn’t have a lot of forests, and he was supposed to be dead. He had watched as the Zealot had plunged an energy dagger into him, supposedly ending his life. His combat training told him to get up, to check for the nearest UNSC outpost. But all the worlds he had been on didn’t have as lush floral life. Only Earth would have this dense a forest and he would have seen some sort of tower in the distance, or at least had radio contact. His mind told him that this place was alien, un-explored. Or Covenant. Six was partial to the latter; killing more Covenant meant less aliens the UNSC had to worry about.
Six began to stand, slowly as he could already feel the pain. Once he had reached full height, he surveyed further. He had already noticed his repaired helmet and visor, and began making full use of it. His motion sensor would flare occasionally; due to the amount of life in the forest this was expected. The noise was another indicator of alien origin. Six doubted Covenant worlds were much different from human ones, mostly devoid of life, exceptions for the creatures with higher adaptability. Six did one last take before he made his way towards the forest. If this was an unoccupied planet, he would need shelter. Though there was the possibility of sentient life, it was low so he had no plans of an excursion.
Six wondered about his existence, was this like that old movie Matrix? Were they all just batteries powering the machines? That would certainly explain the change in scenery upon death, but if he died in the virtual world, wouldn’t that mean he died in real life? Six shook his head; he had no intentions of going mad within the first half-hour of being alone. Not that Six minded being alone, he was a lone wolf. It was his nature to be alone, just never on an un-discovered world, filled with possible hostiles. Six sighed it was going to be a long day wasn’t it? He moved through the forest, walking along and taking in the scenery. It was actually rather beautiful, an un-scarred world, no democracy, no UNSC, and in turn, no one to report to. He was now a separate unit, a true lone wolf. Six smiled, he could do as he pleased, no one to say, Leave them, or their not worth the ammo .
Six was brought out of his torpor with the rustling of a bush. He looked at said bush, glaring daggers into it, until he heard a voice.
“Mister… Mister Elite, is that you?”
Six was awestruck, the voice was English, human, infant. But another thing struck him as well, What does she mean, Elite? He stepped closer to the bushel, hoping to find the source. But before he reached it, a small orange head popped out, equine in shape. Its eyes widened.
“You’re not mister Elite!” Before Six could ask his critical question, a voice spoke out, gruff and undeniably Elite English.
“Touch a hair of their hide and I shall not hesitate to cut off your head, Demon!” Six looked up to see an Elite Spec Op uncloak, gripping the hilt of its sword.
“Shit.” Six swore before he retreated away into the underbrush, he needed cover. He turned his head to see the progress of the Spec Op, only to halt in his sprint as he saw the Elite converse with them. He was even more surprised to see that the small native, or at least he thought native, inhabitants did not simply run in the sight of the eight foot killing machine. He soon found a tree thick enough to cover his entire frame. He placed his back against the wall, drawing his DMR off its magnetic holster. He looked around the corner, seeing that the Elite had ended the conversation he took aim. Time to go to work. Six shouldered the rifle firmly, placed the scope onto the Elites head, and pulled the trigger.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
CRACK!
All three of them heard it, a sound that Mister Elite said would happen. Scootaloo lead the charge out of the forest, hopefully warning ponyville of the bigger problem as Mister Elite said. Apple Bloom huffed, “Ouch, mah leg still hurts girls, I can’t run that fast!” Scootaloo slowed a little, wondering what could be a bigger problem for Mister Elite. The way he had taken care of the Timber Wolves nothing in the forest would have given him a harder time, except maybe a hydra. Scootaloo saw light at the edge of the forest. As they galloped out of the woods, Scootaloo saw her scooter and made headway for it. The other two followed close behind, climbing into the wagon.
“Go!” Yelled Sweetie Belle. And Scootaloo obeyed, willing her wings to move faster than usual, they buzzed off towards the Library. Scootaloo could here quiet cracks, like distant thunder.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! CRACK!
Shuur counted to fifteen before returning fire, remembering his training. His HUD began to display the fact that neither one of them were making progress on the other. He knew the Demons ammo was low because his shots were becoming more accurate and sparing. Unfortunately so was he, his Plasma rifle was low on power, mostly because he had used plenty during the attack yesterday, mostly.
After Shuur’s weapon overheated he hid behind cover, he didn’t dare use his grenades because of the mount of foliage around them. He was surprised it had not already set ablaze; plasma was not a cool substance. He didn’t hear incoming fire so he looked around the corner, only to begin receiving magnum bullets to his head. Shuur quickly ducked back, now he was counting to twelve, given that the demon didn’t reload.
Shuur began picking up new signals on his motion tracker. Six in total, now was not a good time. He had hoped that Scootaloo would’ve taken longer so that he might that have already killed, or at least crippled the demon. Shuur knew the risk as to calling for help, but Twilights magic was essential for executing the demon. Truthfully he had not assumed that she would bring her friends as well. This complicated things, the demons primary was empty, but a magnum was still an accurate weapon. He then saw an even more troubling event occurring. His tracker had picked up three slower signals emitting a distance away from the original six. He had one guess as to who they were. He cursed in his native tongue, he needed to prioritize. The demon would not choose between ally and foe, they had been seen with him, so the demon saw them as Covenant allies.
Shuur heard the demon speak, “More of them. Well I was saving these for the Elite, but why not.” Shuur cursed again, ammo low, allies in fire zone, and demon bluffing about no rifle ammo. Shuur heard the demon speak again, “Three on left, six, hih , on right. Less to shoot, less accurate the shot, sounds like a plan.” Shuur eyes widened, this creature dared attack children, lesser not, his friends? This was answered by the sound of clinking metal, marking the swap of weapons. Shuur saw his friends now, oblivious to the demons scope. He reacted more than he thought. Running on the now blooming instinct to protect, he began to sprint towards the Crusaders.
Scootaloo spotted him, “Hey Mister Elite, so-“
CRACK! CRACK! CRACK! CRACK!
Shuur watched his shields meter fall from 100% to zero on the third shot. The fourth pierced under his armors chest plate, wounding him. “GRAAH!” Shuur cried in pain, bullets had never touched his skin. Or inner organs either. He fell like a cruiser with no gravity lifts, plummeting to the ground. As he fell, he heard screams. Once he finished falling, he observed his wound. His blue blood spilled out at an alarming rate, what was left of his honor went with it. He heard the startled cry of the Demon, but not from his sudden burst into action. Then what? he wondered. His thought interrupted by the sudden appearance of Scootaloo.
“Mi…Mister Elite? Are you alright?”
Shuur could see tears forming under her eyes. He coughed blood, That isn’t good… He looked back at Scootaloo, whose tears were but froth, now were torrents. He looked down to his injuries, “No little one, I don’t believe I am.”
Scootaloo was sobbing, “Oh mister Elite, I’m so sorry! If I hadn’t wanted to lead us back you wouldn’t have gotten hurt. I’m sor- sor- sooory!” Shuur saw the other to tear up as well.
“Worry not little ones, a child’s curiosity is a given thing. Besides the point, I will finally be granted my great journey.” Shuur was lying to himself, he was bleeding out. Death by honor loss, what next, saved again? soon at a speed Shuurs dying mind could not comprehend, Twilight was next to him, she gasped at his wounds. Before he could object, her horn glowed. Shuur felt a tingling sensation near the wound, observing the great deal of effort on her end. Soon she huffed, but her horn simply started glowing brighter. The sensation was gone, but soon he saw a bright flash of light, then they were someplace else. He recognized the place as the hospital from yesterday.
By the Great ones, does my mind control this world? He watched as Twilight stepped up to the counter, asking for a doctor. The mare behind the desk gasped when she saw the patient as the creature from yesterday. She wobbled over to the desk before asking for a trauma team. She then fainted, again, just another miracle. Shuur’s vision swam, the lights becoming brighter, he just barely caught the doctors coming through the doors. Shuur began to feel numb, finally rest.
“Plan b, Elite, Plan B…”
The wretched voice told him in his head. Suddenly, Shuur’s rage ignited his heart, again.
“YOU!”
He screamed mentally. The voice now shocked, spoke again, “Oh, well, Plan C I suppose. Darn you Elites are tough.*Chuckles* Oh how I wish to see you gone and out of the picture soon, but alas, it seems that even alien hero’s don’t die easy either.”
Shuur felt pain in the left of his chest, spreading through his still frame, then murky shadows overcame his remaining vision.
Extra-long chapter, though I’m afraid that you won’t see these very often, bugger to edit. Oh and sorry for delay, my friend came over. NO ONE MUST KNOW MY SECRET! It was fun, played some games, TF2, COD WAW. Watched the snow pile to 4 inches today as well, Oh Canada how I love thee. Well I get to wear my awesome hat and toboggan. Look at me turning this note into a blog. Anyway, have a happy winter, and whatever holiday/festivities your religion practices.
IMR1fley here, I’m the new proofreader. I look forward to editing the future chapters, as well as hearing feedback from all of you about how we’re doing. On a side note, I have to mention that, in contrast with the dear Doctor, I live in southern Texas, so I’ve been having 80 degree weather for the past week.
Chapter five – A long day.
The Following story has been proofread by IMR1fley
Shuur was somewhere, no, nowhere. He looked around to see someplace no living mind had seen. It was dark, no light; it was indescribable for there are no words that reach here. An all too familiar chuckle emanated from nowhere.
“Do you like it? I do hope so, not many get to see here and live.” Shuur snarled at the voice,
“Where are you, you sound different, like you’re close.” The voice chuckled again.
“Why I’m right here of course, silly Elite.”
Shuur turned around, no made everything turn around, and saw a true monster. The head of a mule, snaggle tooth and a displaced set of wings. He eyed over the creature, even its pupils where mismatched. The thing laughed.
“Yes I have that effect on ponies, and now aliens.”
“I believe you are to blame for my current condition, no?” Shuur said glaring daggers into the creature.
“Yes and my plan B almost worked until that human was knocked unconscious by our little Twilight.”
“You know Twilight?” Shuur said surprised.
“Of course I know her! HA! She and her little friends are the reason that we’re here! I’m stone, and you are in a coma.”
Shuur treaded carefully, if it knew he was unconscious, chances were it would not hesitate to lie. “I’m in coma? How nice, more time to question you.”
“What? Oh well I suppose since you are going to be here for eternity, then yes.” Shuur was unmoved, he was going to prove this thing wrong. It extended a paw, “Discord, lord and master of chaos, two times removed ruler of Equestria, and your warden.”
Shuur took the paw, “Shuur ‘Makhanee, Spec ops agent for the Covenant, you didn’t do your homework.”
“What fun is there in work, I mean really? Is that all you people think about? I mean sure, ponies don’t appreciate my chaos, like I said, twice removed. But you sir are an alien. Would you like to see some memories?” Shuur shook his head.
“No, I now know who you are, what you are is next.” Discord seemed a little disappointed.
“I’m a Draconequus, now come on and lets-“
“No, I don’t believe I want to see these memories.” He turned to walk (or float,) away, Only to be stopped.
“I’m afraid you have little choice, Shuur.”
He felt a tugging at his body, like a huge magnet was pulling him. He grunted, “If I have choice than it is to defy you!” Shuur pushed against the force.
“NO! You have no choice now.” Discord yelled, pulling harder. Shuur returned in kind pushing harder against the force. Soon the two were deadlocked in a turntable of force. “C’mon you little bugger, you are coming with me to those memories!”
“I said NO. With every breath this body takes will be to defy you!” Shuur said enraged. Soon Shuur what sounded like a tearing sound, only different somehow? He heard Discord cry.
“NO! You couldn’t possibly escape! I swear Shuur if I ever kill something in my existence, it will be you!”
Not long afterwards Shuur felt a huge burden lift from his mind, and the world turned a describable white.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Shuurs eyes fluttered, opening to a glowing HUD. He sighed, he was safe. For now at least, he definitely did not like that Discord creature. He heard a snore beside him; he turned to see a now sleeping group of crusaders. He also noted that he was lying down in some sort of short bed; he could feel his legs hanging out the side. Another thing that panicked him was the fact that it was colder than usual, he only hoped he had not truly been in a coma until this planets cold cycle. He tried lifting his head, only to find he was rather sore all over. He quickly tried to dismiss the feeling, he needed to look outside. It turned out to be too much, as his head fell back to the pillow. Shuur sat there for a moment, pondering events past. That was until a certain orange mare stepped into the room. Without even noticing him, she walked over to the group.
“Apple Bloom, come on now wake up, time to go.” He watched as Apple Bloom stirred, eyes slowly opening before she let out a yawn. Applejack looked at the others, “You twos parents are here as well. C’mon now up an’ at ‘em.” The others two slowly woke as well, stretching out before letting out yawns of their own.
Shuur ‘smiled’ they were all fine. At least he could accomplish that. He clicked his mandibles for attention, turning the head of Applejack.
“Well I’ll be…” She trotted up to the door, peeking her head out, “Girls, he’s awake.” He soon heard the sound of hooves clopping against the linoleum. Shuur saw a couple of ponies trot in, the six others from yesterday. Pinkie Pie happily bounced in, seemingly going to break her face with the smile she wore.
“Ooh, goodie, let’s throw him a party!” Twilight threw a hoof into Pinkie’s mouth.
“Not so loud and no party, at least not yet.” she looked over to Shuur, “How do you feel?” Shuur chuckled.
“Like I have been beaten by a Jiralhanae, I need to know, how long was I out?”
Twilight smiled, “Not long actually, only three days. Why?”
Shuur sighed, “I had feared I slept until the winter cycle.” Twilight looked surprised, but soon realized why he felt that way.
“We had to move you to the Canterlot hospitals, whatever that thing did to you nearly tore you open.”
Shuur nodded, “A 7.62 mm bullet from a DMR is designed to do so. They are primitive, but accurate weapons.”
Twilight looked a little concerned. “How do you know all that?”
Shuur clicked his mandibles in annoyance, he was running his mouth. “We are at war.” Twilight looked a little surprised, but soon calmed down.
“Oh, sorry, it must be easy to live like that.”
“We are winning.” Shuur chuckled.
Twilight smiled, “Good I don’t like that other guy. He broke out of the Canterlot prison five times, until we put him into a selective coma.” Shuur lost his peace.
“You haven’t killed him yet?” Twilight shook her head.
“This is a peaceful place, even if he did hurt a couple of guards, and we still need to show him that.”
Shuur was now rather upset, “You don’t understand Twilight, we call his kind demons for a reason. He is a human super soldier, a Spartan.” Twilight looked confused.
“Spartan?”
“A Spartan is a human soldier, chemically altered and trained since infancy, sometimes even stolen from homes to be turned into soldiers. They have strength and speed to match, if not out do my kind. I have heard tales of lone Demons killing entire legions of my people. They are the ultimate human soldier, something to be feared, though I have killed ten in my career.” Twilight looked shaken, “Trained since infancy, chemically altered. They sound horrible.”
“They are an un-holy people, there to serve us in our great journey. Which has eluded me twice already…” Shuur looked around, the pain already subsiding. “You said you had to move me to this ‘Canterlot’, where is it?”
Twilight smiled, “It’s located on top of a mountain, it’s also the capital of Equestria, where the princesses themselves live.”
Shuur was at the least surprised, they were at the capital, truly the capital of Equestria? On top of a mountain no less, that was an impressive feat for such a medieval species. Shuur yawned, causing the entirety of the group to take a few steps back in fear, Shuur simply laughed.
“It was a yawn, nothing less. Unconsciousness does not count as rest.” Twilight nodded, the let loose a yawn of her own.
“Well then we should get going, goodnight Elite.” As Twilight began to walk away Shuur spoke,
“It is Shuur’Makhanee.”
“What?”
Shuur clicked his mandibles again, “My name, it is Shuur’Makhanee.”
Twilight smiled, “My mistake, good night Shuur.” With that they exited, closing the door behind them. Shuur laid his head down, soon his eyes began to droop and close before he began to snore away soundly. The sound made the six worry even more, but passed it off as something usual for his kind.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Shuurs eyes opened at a slow rate. Once completely open he surveyed his surroundings, confirming that Discord had not again attacked his mind, he relaxed. As he lay he began to wonder how he fared. With those thoughts, Shuur shifted in the too small bed and swung his legs out to the side. His feet easily reached the ground; in fact his front knees were higher than the bed itself. His head swam a little, but soon cleared up as he stood. It was the first time in three days, and Shuur soon felt it. He was fatigued, hungry, and now bored. He looked over his room in further detail, seeing that he was in fact in the mountains for he could see much from his window. A great view wasn’t something uncommon to the Sangheili; space had extraordinary views as well. But he had never just actually just stood and stared at the world from a mountain side. The lands were a rolling green into the distance, mixing with the sunrise against the clouds made Shuur feel like he was missing out. As he stared out at the planet, he heard a voice just outside the doors.
“Yes twilight I understand that he might be surprised, but if he is a threat, I must know.” The voice was much more mature, and almost kind, though still holding a sense of authority. He heard Twilight speak.
“Well from as far as we could tell, his night is on a different time than ours, he might not be up yet princess.” Shuur was suddenly frozen in time, Princess? One of their leaders are coming to see me? Shuur turned to the door standing tall and rigid, he was going to make a good first impression, or was at least trying to as his head touched the roof. He cursed the rooms tiny height as the door swung open, revealing a pony of which the likes he had never seen. She stood taller than any, easily six feet. She wore golden pieces of jewelry as well as some sort of slippers. She looked at him with surprise seeing him already up, and from the posture he was using.
Twilight stepped in and gasped, seeing Shuur up so early was unheard of. After a moment, Shuur almost slapped himself, They are a peaceful people, I should be bowing, not standing in attention! Celestia spoke in his place.
“Greetings Shuur ’Makhanee, I am princess Celestia, Co-ruler of Equestria.” Shuur acknowledged.
“Shuur ‘Makhanee, confidential.” Celestia frowned.
“I understand you want to protect sensitive knowledge, but may you at least tell us your species, or perhaps your intentions towards this world?” Shuur nodded.
“I am a Sangheili Special Operations, Spec Op. I am of minor rank, I have lower time on the field. The Spec Op division is a team of infiltrators, to get behind enemy lines and strike swiftly. I also have no ill regard for this world, except for the inhabitant ‘Discord’.” Celestia’s frown turned to a momentary look of shock, then deepened, “Then it is as we feared, Twilight ready the elements, he may break free again.” Twilight nodded, then turned and left.
Shuur took a hidden look of concern, “Is there a Problem princess?” Celestia looked up at Shuur, something she didn’t do very often.
“Yes there is, the creature in your mind is the lord of chaos, and if he breaks free,” She looked to the floor solemnly “then Equestria’s harmony will be broken.” Shuur understood her concern; it was like having a rogue shipmaster that knew nothing of sailing in space. Celestia looked at him again, “Another thing is that nopony has seen your true face. I will understand if you choose to keep it on, but I personally would like to see it.”
Shuur was on a pivot, should he trust these ponies with his identity, or should he disobey their leader? Shuur decided the latter was probably a good decision. He reached for the back of his helmet, gripping the very rear, he heard a satisfying whine and hiss, then twisted it to the right.
Celestia watched with hungry eyes, she was no Twilight Sparkle, but she was still intrigued. Shuur lifted up promptly, fully removing his helmet. Soon Celestia almost took on a face of fear, but remembered he harbingered no hate for Equestria. Shuur flexed his mandibles experimentally, “Grah, they do make these things so cramped.” He continued to flex his mandibles, using his hand to massage them, this was a rare opportunity and Shuur had every intention of seizing it. Celestia was a little offset by his appearance.
“If you are omnivorous, then how do you chew without a lower jaw?” Shuur stopped massaging.
“In our early days, when we were but just animals on a rock, our prey consisted of smaller animals, usually creatures that fit into ones jaws. This arrangement allowed for the easy grinding of meat on the small animals. When our people advanced, our jaws kept the same form.” Shuur was not about to say that they were in fact plucked off they’re planet by the San 'Shyuum while in early development.
Celestia nodded, convinced of the truth, “Very well, thank you. It is good to talk face to face.” She began to walk towards the door, “Oh, and your forms have been filled, you are free to depart. Please do be inconspicuous, few of my little ponies know of your existence.”
Shuur finally bowed, “I shall, thank you princess.”
Celestia smiled, and then walked down the hallway. Once she had left, Shuur put his helmet back on, sealing it with a hiss. He began to make is way to the door fully intending to leave the wretched hospital, but stopped when he heard doctors coming. He activated his cloak; this was now an espionage mission. Objective: leave hospital undetected. He moved forward at a slow pace, moving silently on the linoleum floor. He passed by every doorway, doctor and patient on his way out. Following the conveniently placed exit signs, Shuur soon found his way to a large door in the lobby.
Once he reached the door he promptly exited, turning a few heads on the door opening on its own. He got his bearings, observing the city as it was. He was astounded by the engineering put into Canterlot. It should not have been possible for a building to, let alone an entire medieval city, hang over the edge of a mountain. The more he examined it the more he came to the now classical conclusion of magic.
He sighed, “Nothing could ever be regular now could it.” He stared at the shining city for but a moment longer. He then took in the view, seeing many mountains in the distance, what looked to be a small village, and even a cloud formation shaped like a city. Shuur couldn’t be sure of it, but that odd cloud formation could be another settlement. Magic could have been used to make it, magic could be used for anything. He grumbled this entire magic thing was beginning to get to him again. His gaze turned to specific part of the city, a large assortment of golden roofed towers. He suspected that these were the place grounds as he saw Celestia fly into a tower. He was about to move towards it when there was a sound of an explosion coming from that direction. “Three guesses who” His new objective was to stop, and finally kill the demon who did all this. Then find Discord and do the same. He began his new mission with immediacy, and began approaching the towers with a hurried pace.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
This was it, Discord had told him while they knocked him out that he needed one more stir of chaos, and then he would be free. Afterwards Discord had promised to bring this world of covenant to its knees; turns out he hated the ponies too. Once six agreed to the partnership, Discord awoke him. Six had an objective now, make some chaos. He armed a frag, punching it into the wall. He backed away, the sound was tremendous, and amplified by the space. But to six it just meant more of what they needed. He heard the ponies rushing about upstairs, Six made his way to the hole in the wall. Punching away at the remaining fragments, he got into the next cell over, which didn’t have an enchanted door that reverses the pain he inflicted on the door. It was like punching a fist at the same speed, meaning pain of course. He easily broke down the medieval barred door, stepping into the hallway, he saw some of the unicorn guards come at him.
“Not this time you overgrown horned rats!” With that he charged them with speed to rival an Elite. He spread his arms wide, clotheslining guards and collapsing their helmets. He continued without even looking back, running up the stairs he burst through the doors at the top, only to be met with a hoard of guards. Pegasi hovered in the air, earth pony’s weald spears and swords, while unicorns charged spells. His soldier mind told him to take cover; his now chaotic side said charge them. And charge them he did, he crashed into the guards head on, shields protecting him from the majority of their retaliations. He assaulted with fists and feet, quickly disassembling their ranks in just what Discord needed: chaos. After a few seconds of combat, Six felt a presence suddenly jump in his mind. ”Good job, I’m out. Now let me handle this.” Then suddenly, the room was filled with fish, which fell to the floor. The guards stopped and looked at them, some even poking them. Then suddenly the fish burst into a green smoke and confetti.
Each of the guards took a whiff, and then passed out. Six’s armour was sealed and protected him from the fumes. Soon there was a flash of white light and Discord appeared in front of him.
“GRAH! Ooh, ah. Oh my aching shoulders, my position was not very sound this time around. Let’s change that by never getting caught in stone again shall we?” He turned to Six, “Ah, minion! Good to see you, well done on the chaos part. I suppose I shall uphold my end of the bargain,” He walked over to Six, “How does a merge sound?”
Six was a little confused, “Merge? You mean like me inside of you or vice versa?” Discord nodded before putting on his trademark goofy smile.
“Exactly, I vote you. That way, I will sustain less damage if we take any, and you will get, errr, let’s say 60% control.”
Six scratched his chin, “Deal.” Discord chuckled.
“Excellent, now prepare yourself, not many can hold the power of a god.”
Discord snapped his fingers and disappeared. Suddenly Six had a horrible headache. He fell to his knees then spoke in a mixture of both voices, though Discords won over.
“Testing testing, 123. HA! What a fool! To think I would give him any control! Hoo that’s rich, though he definitely left something behind.” Discord could feel it, the desire to kill, and before it was against his ‘better’ judgement. But now inside the body and mind of a warrior, he embraced it. “Might as well use what little he gave, come along new body, we have work to do.” The voice was now completely Discord, and the abomination, once lord of chaos, now lord death had work to do. He snapped his fingers, first: Elements of Harmony.
Heyo, Doctor here. I would like to say sorry for the late update. I went shopping in Red Deer with my family, came home late, 8:00, and now finishing story for editing. I hope you guys like where I am going with this. This is IMR1fley’s first time as well, as a proof-reader, so big thanks to him. Two new guys writing a decent story in a Haylo Fic group, living the dream. Good morning/day/night to you all.
Chapter Seven – Awake.
Shuur felt odd, he was floating. Soon the realization hit him, he was nowhere again. No, something was different, he was somewhere now. He slowly opened his eyes expecting his HUD, instead his vision was blank. He moved a hand up to his vision, seeing it was un-armored worried him. Shuur looked to the rest of his frame, and found himself in a rather extravagant robe. He almost panicked, was he dead? Did the battle truly leave him so drained? He looked all around the perpetual white background, trying to find an anchor to reality. Soon he heard a faint chuckle, one that was just a little too familiar. There was a flash of light, and an evident oddity stood in front of him.
“Hello Shuur, it is good to see you well. I had almost feared that you perished from energy loss.” Shuur stared at Harmony; it was as if she was everything at once, but still just one entity. She chuckled again, “None have seen my form and lived, so there are no words to describe me yes?”
Shuur nodded, “No, I know many a language, but never heard of words to describe something like you.” He looked over his own form, “And thanks for this.” He said as he brushed the robe, removing any wrinkles.
Harmony smiled; at least Shuur thought it was a smile. “I apologize as I had to look into your dormant mind to find some pleasant attire for you, armor is honorable but there is no need for it here.” Shuur studied his robe further, it was exactly as he wanted it to be, a Templar white base while having exquisite gold lacing to personify the Great journey.
He mentally sighed, “And yet, such an event evades me. I believe I am beginning to see a pattern.”
He ceased his studies as he knew exactly what the robe looked like, and then Harmony spoke. “Also, your thoughts can be heard as well, sorry I didn’t warn you sooner.”
Shuur physically sighed, “I had guessed so, and you beings are a strange lot. You have such power, yet can only be seen upon death, or in my case a coma.” He scratched his lower mandibles thoughtfully, “Or is it that I am going mad? It would not surprise me if that is so.”
Harmony shook what Shuur assumed was a head, “No you are not mad, neither a coma. You are simply reaching a near awake point, when your sub-conscious roams and consciousness is near. Or as your people call it, Rapid Eye Movement sleep.”
Shuur nodded approvingly, “Makes sense, but I digress, what honor do I have for this visit?”
Harmony looked surprised, “Oh yes, I was going to tell you that you have new abilities. Powers if you would, though it is up to the viewers to decide if you keep them.”
Shuur was more confused than usual, “Viewers? Like a show or play?”
Harmony shook her many, not so many heads “No, how to explain this. Ah, yes. Okay, the worlds and realms are made by The Writers. Our world more specifically, was created by a Writer named The_Doctor_Who.” This proclamation made no sense to Shuur, a world made by writers? Harmony spotted his confusion, then sighed, but still continued. “There are four beings above us, each I will name and briefly explain.” Shuur prepared his mind for a scarring of reality. Harmony cleared her throat, “First off are rare The Publishers, who review a Writers story making sure it crosses no boundaries or rules. Second are The Writers who have a higher populous than The Publishers, and they write a story to be reviewed then aired. Thirdly are the Proofreaders, they edit a Writers story to be more perfect, fixing mistakes and adding detail. Finally, there are The Viewers, they are most common. Though do not take their low rank as a given, they hold more power than a Publisher does. They ‘read’ a Writers story, liking, disliking or adding a favorite to said story. A Writers goal is to write a story to be liked and viewed by many Viewers, adding to The Writers story popularity, and said Writers ratings.”
Harmony finished her statement in a voice of pure factual information. Shuur stood on air, dumbfounded, his mind grinding Shuur’s knowledge against this new info. After a short eternity, Harmony spoke again.
“I can see you are getting close to re-entering the world of Equestria. Just make sure to watch your mind Shuur.” Harmony grinned at the similarities between the word and his name, “Goodbye Shuur, be sure to say ‘Hi’ to Celestia and Luna for me.” she snickered as Shuur watched the world fade into grey, “Sure and Shuur, I remember that one.” Soon everything continued fading into black, then a colorless void, he was alone again. Shuur felt a headache coming on, and shut his eyes to the void, severing the connection.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Shuur heard a noise, like a monotonous beep. Wait, it was a monotonous beep. He opened his weary eyes, only to shut them quickly as the sun’s rays pierced his cornea. He let the light filter through his eyelids before trying again. He was more successful this time as he actually managed to see his surroundings, save for the edge of his vision which was still a blurry glow. He glanced towards the noise, only to see a prehistoric pacemaker, he was in a hospital. He blinked the glow away from his vision, looking to the left he saw something he did not want to see. Just off the side of the bed was a row of 2 short tables, both required to hold thier tremendous load. He looked at the faint twinkle as the sunlight danced off of his armors reflective metal. Shuur looked down, moving the covers, only to find himself covered in a ragtag medical dress. This discovery wanted to make him roar in anger; it looked like it was sewed together by many others to cover his form. He breathed in deeply, before an intense pain made him stop. He clutched his side, only to regret the action as more pain joined the former.
He quickly rested his arms to his sides, away from any now obvious pains on his body. He lay sullenly for the better part of an hour. Nothing to do but count the tiles of the ceiling, look out the distant window, and look over the damage to his armor. He couldn’t see much but he saw the new nicks and dents from his recent battle with a god. After concluding his search he discovered it was just past sunrise as the distant wisps of orange disappeared from the clouds. He began to hear hoof steps as doctors and nurses went about checking on their designated patients. Shuur sighed, “Why is it always the hospitals? Why not a combat field, or in a training camp?” Shuur pondered the query to himself, he thought better of it though as such thoughts could poison his liking for such areas. Soon after Shuur heard the familiar voice of Twilight, and it was approaching.
“Yes doctor I understand that he is probably still not awake, but it never hurts to see.” Her voice was carrying a hint of authority he noted.
A different voice chimed in, “Yah, c’mon Doc! I just gotta know what flavor of cake he wants at his ‘Thanks for saving Equestria from an evil god’ party! Ooh, I hope its chocolate, or maybe vanilla, what if it’s an alien flavor?!? Oh that wouldn’t be so good if we couldn’t even bake him his favorite cake!” Shuur sighed at the sound of Pinkies voice, a known face was welcome, but she was rather annoying. He watched as a set of shadows came in front of his door.
Another voice followed, he assumed it was the doctor, “Well girls here we are, again, for the last time I still doubt he would be awake after such a beating, it has only been two days.”
Twilight retorted rather fast, “He said his kind heals faster than others so he should recovers faster than the usual patient, even if we don’t know how the healing magic will affect him.” Shuur was slightly relieved to hear that he was at least cared for, even more so towards the fact that their magic medicine was much more adaptive than that of a regular vile. He heard the door latch un-hook from its regular position, followed by said door swinging inward. Twilight continued, “Besides, I have questions for him, and he’s immobilized this time.” Shuur cringed at the details of Twilights visit, and she was right, he couldn’t move. As they entered, they saw him in his upright position; even sitting in a bed he was taller than them. Twilight smiled, “Oh Shuur, you’re awake, that’s great!” She turned to the unicorn doctor, “Told you so,” she said in a mock tone then turned back to Shuur, only to be interrupted by Pinkie Pie.
Soon the mass of poofy pink hair that was Pinkie was all Shuur could see, “Ooh, Shuur! Your awake! At first we were all like, Oh No, then like, Get Help! Then we were all sad because you were hurt, now we’re gonna be happy because your fine! By the way, what’s your favorite flavor of cake?”
Shuur clicked his mandibles in annoyance, a lot louder without his helmet. Pinkie almost took a look of fear, he could also hear Twilight mumbling, “So mandibles also act as a way of showing emotion, much like a ponies face. So all the other muffled clicks I heard were the same thing.” Shuur didn’t like being researched, it made him feel isolated, more so than usual.
He spoke up in his own defence, “Twilight, I’m not in the mood for tests and questions, nor the condition,” he turned to Pinkie, “And I believe I will try a ‘chocolate’ cake Pinkie.” Pinkie smiled wildly, soon backing off the bed and happily bouncing away.
Twilight sighed, “Fair enough, though I do need one crucial one answered now.”
Shuur groaned, “Very well, what is it?”
Twilight took a rather serious face, “Ahem, Princess Celestia and Luna were wondering how you were doing should you wake up.” Shuur was a little less than surprised, of course it was serious , the princesses had asked it.
Oh well, better answer, “I’m a little sore, but fine for now. Also, see to it that they know that Harmony sends her regards.” Twilight looked a little confused with the mention of the goddess’s name, but nodded and wrote something down on a scroll.
She finished and looked up, “Alright, though I’m not sure who Harmony is, I’ll make sure the Princesses see this, thanks.” Shuur was surprised she did not know, she was an Element Bearer after all.
Shuur nodded before the doctor stepped in, a little annoyed, “Alright Miss Sparkle, you should leave. As the patient stated, he is not ready for visitors and requires rest.”
Shuur disagreed, “I said I’m in no mood for tests and questions, a friendly chat would chip away at the boredom, or do you have other reasons for wanting everyone else to leave?”
The doctor sighed, “Fine, but no more than one pony at a time.” Shuur thanked the doctor as he left, closing the door behind him. He turned to Twilight, who was just sitting down.
He decided to speak first, “So would you mind telling me how you got off my armor?”
Twilight looked thoughtfully back into her memories, “It wasn’t easy, it was very well attached, we had to teleport the entire thing off. Then the weight problem presented itself, what is it made of anyway?”
Shuur waved a hand, “It supposed to be well attached, and the material is a secret.”
Twilight sighed, “Oh well, anyway, did you want to talk about something specific?”
Shuur scratched the bottom of his mandibles, “Nothing particular, why don’t you tell me about the past two days?”
Twilight nodded, “Of course now where to start, oh, how about right after the battle?”
Shuur shrugged, “Why not.” And so, Twilight began her tale starting right on about how the princesses and the Elements waited for the smoke to settle after the fight, but not before a patrol of guards was sent in first…
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
“…And then we found out that none of the gowns would fit you, so Rarity did a quick patch job and sewed a few together, you would not believe the fit she threw though. After the doctors patched the majority of your wounds, you seemed fine so we set you down in an isolated wing of the Canterlot hospital, specifically a side that knew about you.” Shuur nodded for about the tenth time since the story started, they had taken very direct action, some of which surprised Shuur. Especially the excuse that the explosion was simply Luna testing a new modern day spell, she even went with the demeaning story, though Celestia still apologized afterwards. There was also a very good handout to the ponies that actually saw what happened, Shuur didn’t like that part, and they should’ve been able to obey the will of their monarch’s wishes without payment.
Shuur looked out the window; it had only been about two hours since Twilight started her story. On the bright side, he was that he was starting to feel better, just enough that he didn’t feel like he was bending bones every time he moved.
Shuur shuffled uncomfortably in his bed, it was much too small for him, he even heard it creak under his weight occasionally.
A grumble filled the room, Twilight blushed, “Oh - um, sorry. I haven’t even had breakfast yet, and now it’s lunchtime.”
Shuur’s stomach rumbled as well, fearsome as ever, “Aye, I too have missed a meal. Though I doubt the food here is great, I suppose I will deal with it.”
Twilight flicked a hoof awkwardly, “Well um, sorry but I probably should leave anyway, though I’ll make sure to bring you something better than hospital food later. Bye!”
Shuur waved as Twilight left, and then closed the door with her magic. An audible click was heard, and Shuur was alone again. He sighed as he tried to rest his back against the headrest of the bed. Only to receive a violent crack in response, he grumbled about the beds poor structure and lay down instead. He stared at the ceiling fan, an item he missed before, watching the blades whirl around in slow continuous motion. This place was driving him mad! He was a soldier of action, not a civilian used to such dull life. That and he wanted to learn about the powers that Harmony described.
He remembered her saying something about watching his mind, what was that supposed to mean? Something else struck Shuur, there was a noticeable, aura to everything. It was like someone had spread a faint red layer of paint to the air around edges of every object of the room.
“I wonder…” Shuur let his mind stretch out, and closed his eyes. He was surprised when he was greeted by the sensation of touch, as if he was spread out and could feel everything. He focused on a glass of water beside his bed; soon the aura seemed to focus on the cup. Shuur felt every detail of it, the clear smooth glass, the slight curve inward from the top to bottom, and even the cold water and small company name branded into the bottom. Shuur pictured the cup floating from its spot, nothing happened. Upset, Shuur focused on the glass, putting every inch of will into moving it. Soon the cup teetered, and then shakily rose from the nightstand. Shuur opened his eyes, watching the cup float lazily to him. He reached out his hand and... a knock at the door broke his concentration. The glass slipped from his mental grip, spilling its contents onto the bed sheets and his gown. Shuur openly cursed and moved away from the now wet patch on the bed, pain searing at him as he did.
He looked up to his perpetrator seeing a nurse step in with a trolley topped with what Shuur assumed was food. His nose told him that it was a distilled formation of vitamins and other bland tastes. Then Shuur sniffed again… no… it couldn’t be… The unicorn nurse took a plate of food from a small bottom compartment. On said plate was a pile of apples. Shuur rubbed his eyes in disbelief; the nurse chuckled awkwardly at the sight of the alien.
She placed the plate on his lap, still eyeing him as if he’d eat her instead. She cleared her throat, “Ahem, the apples are a gift from Sweet Apple Acres; we’ve had them in storage for when you awoke.” Shuur thanked her, wanting to gorge on the sweet juicy delights in front of him, but holding back in order not to scare the nurse more. She slowly backed out; nearly forgetting the trolley, then shut the door. The moment she left, he instantly began to eat, stuffing an apple in quickly. It had only just occurred to him that it had actually nearly been a week since he last ate, and he was ravenous. He ate apple after sweet juicy apple in rapid succession, ignoring the fact that his stomach had probably contracted heavily and would regret this later. Not 30 seconds later, Shuur finished, and was already feeling his feeding frenzies effects. His stomach gurgled at the sudden over flow in the once empty space, trying to expand fast enough. He clutched his gut; he had not expected this so soon, obviously no food for six days was rather devastating to one’s digestive track. Shuur forced himself to hold the food; he was not vomiting up his only meal in six days, especially not apples.
Once he had his gut under control, he thought back to how he moved the cup. Obviously this is what Harmony meant by powers, but he had not expected them to be of the psychosis variety. He closed his eyes again, sensing the room around him. He found the pitcher he was looking for, full of water. He decided he needed more practice before trying both multiple items at once and pouring himself a glass of water. He picked up the cup from the bed with his new found telekinesis, berating himself for not mentioning the spill to the nurse, and placed it in the palm of his hand. He opened his eyes, reaching for the pitcher and grabbing it with a firm grip, he wasn’t spilling again. He carefully poured the life giving water out into the cup, six days without water was nearing a fatally dangerous level of thirst. Once full, he brought the cup of water up to his maw, drinking slowly as to not upset his stomach again. He repeated the process until he emptied the pitcher, his stomach gurgled again, but it didn’t threaten to reject the matter this time. Shuur let out a contempt sigh, he was full, healing and, more or less, happy.
He lay back, putting the now empty pitcher in its place, and then proceeded to test his powers again. He continued to practice control for an hour or so, before he heard the sound of familiar voices. Placing the cup down on the table, Shuur readied himself for Pinkie Pie, her voice mumbled up with the others but still present. After making sure everything was in order, he heard the door begin to open, the voices louder and clearer now.
“Okay, alright! I’ll ask him, sheesh!” said a rather flustered Twilight. The rest of the ponies waited outside while Twilight approached. She was wearing a face of attitude that resembled anxiety, but still a smidgeon of confidence. Once she reached him she put on a better smile, but was still noticeably anxious, “Um, hi Shuur, how are feeling?”
“Fine, but a little confused,” He answered, “what is going on Twilight?”
She huffed, “Well, it’s just that the Princesses want to see you, then so do we all, and there is the ever present problem of what to do with you once you’ve recovered… again.”
He chuckled, “And I assume that you have been tasked with all of these orders?”
She nodded, “Yes, it’s not like I don’t have a lot of work most of the time, but it’s more like everypony won’t stop nagging for me getting it done faster than I can.”
Shuur put on a face of understanding, the Spec Ops missions were usually suicide for any other branch of the Covenant, and so missions were stressful and overwhelming at times. But the Spec Ops were trained to take stress, and asses combat situations even under mortar or aircraft fire, but this was a civilian with no training, it must have been excruciating for the poor mare. She let out a solemn sigh, “Oh well, anyway, I got a question that needs answering.”
Shuur nodded, “Yes, go on.”
Twilight was visibly flustered, “Er, the princesses were wondering if you would like to become a resident of Equestria, home and all.” Shuur was struck by the revelation; did they truly want him to be an Equestrian citizen? Even after such a short time? Shuur looked at the ceiling in thought, what to do what to do… He sat up for a while before answering, looking down to Twilights Questioning gaze.
He had decided, “I suppose if there is no way for me to go home… and I have no way of getting shelter otherwise then yes, I accept.”
Twilights smile rivaled Pinkie’s, “Great! That’s wonderful, just go to the palace when you recover, and see the princesses, they will get you signed into being a true citizen of Equestria!” Shuur chuckled at her reaction, and then he thought for a moment…
“Wait, I just signed up to be constantly annoyed by a curious purple unicorn, wishing to know all of my secrets. Wonderful.” Shuur mentally sighed, but physically ‘smiled’ as Twilight told the rest of her friends the news. Once she finished, there was the sound of cheers, in which were quickly silenced by the nurse accompanying them. They all gave a sheepish grin and each one apologized, before returning to idle banter. They spoke for a while before Twilight came back in, “Okay, so next you need to decide place of residence.”
Shuur sighed, “I doubt I could avoid you, might as well live close by for your convenience.” Twilight’s smile only grew somehow.
“That’s even better! Er, the Ponyville thing, not the annoying thing, which I shall try to refrain from.”
Shuur nodded, “Thank you, now, please depart. I am tired and require rest, goodbye Twilight Sparkle.” Twilight said her goodbyes as well, then turned and left. After she closed the door Shuur rested. As previously said, unconsciousness doesn’t count as sleep, but over eating has a way of making one tired as well. Shuur got comfortable and let the darkness take him. One last thought filled his head: “I hate this stupid gown.” And with that, Shuur was asleep.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Shuur felt a presence, an annoying one. He felt his lower left mandible being continuously prodded. His mind returned to consciousness, but instead of opening his eyes, he used his new magical sixth sense to see who it was. He was a little surprised to ‘see’ Scootaloo poking him with curiosity, prodding his mandible as if she was testing him for dead.
“Mister Eliteeeeee… C’mon Mister Elite, wake up.” said Scootaloo.
“Ah don’t think he’s getting up, you’ve been poking at him fer ‘bout ten minutes now, ah think he’s just tired.” said Apple Bloom in a slightly nervous voice.
Sweetie Belle spoke next, “Y… yah, I mean if he’s tired, wouldn’t he be angry if we woke him up? H… he might bite us now without his helmet on if he’s mad enough.”
Apple Bloom looked upset, “Aw c’mon now Sweetie Belle, he looked the same without his fancy helmet. We shouldn’t treat ‘im any different; he’s still saved us, and we are still his friends.”
Sweetie Belle looked ashamed, “Sorry, I know he’s the same but he still looks scary.”
Scootaloo laughed, “I think they’re pretty cool, I mean, what other things have a mouth like this?” She continued to prod him further, and annoy Shuur more.
He chose now as a time to speak, “My kinds jaws are a rarity, and I would also appreciate if you stopped.” His words made all three of the Crusaders gasp.
“Mister Elite!” They all shouted in unison.
Shuur rose from his original position, careful not to throw Scootaloo to the floor, “Has no one told you my name yet?”
“Yah, but it just felt weird saying Mister Shuur or Mister McHandy.” answered Scootaloo as she got down.
Shuur chuckled, “Mak-Han-ee, good try though. And no Sweetie Belle, I won’t bite, I am no animal.”
She gave a Sheepish grin before Apple Bloom spoke, “Sorry fer waking you up Mister Elite, but we just had to know if it’s true that you plan to live in Ponyville.”
Shuur nodded, “Yes I do, and once I have recovered I am talk to the Princesses about becoming a resident.” The Crusaders a looked giddy, “Wonderful, now I shall not only have to deal with Twilight, but now these few as well.” He looked out the window, surprised that it was just past morning. “Well at least I’m falling into this planets cycles. He looked down to the fillies, “Wait, how did you get here?”
Each one gave a sheepish grin, “Well, we uhm…”
Shuur raised his left eye ‘brow’ “Yes, go on, where are your parents?”
“Well, we sort of… snuck out.”
Shuur clicked his mandibles, “You did what?”
They smiled again, “We just had t’ know if you’re really living in Ponyville, so we figured we’d come and see yah and maybe get our Cutie Marks as escapee’s.” Their sheepish smiles grew as Shuur face palmed. “Also, um, we don’t have enough money for tickets back…”
Shuur was a little, no, very disappointed with them. “So, I was asleep, you snuck out, woke me up, and now are telling me you haven’t enough money to return home?” They all gave nervous nods. Shuur looked down at them, letting his disappointment show. They all seemed to back away, afraid he’d lash out. Shuur let out a hefty sigh, or more like a growl, “Well I’m feeling better today, so much so I might even be released from this wretched place… As for you lot, I am rather disappointed in you all, you should have packed more coin.”
Their nervousness died down a little, “So you’re not mad because we left?”
Shuur chuckled, “I make my living off of sneaking, you simply failed in preparation.” Before they could comply Shuur spoke again, “Though I doubt any of your parents have the same opinion, once I am out I will find a way to contact them, I too have no local currency.”
They all sighed solemnly, until Sweetie Belle perked up, “Wait, if you are being released today and are going to see the Princesses…”
Scootaloo continued, “Then they might have a way to send us home…”
And Apple Bloom finished, “An’ we could say that we were just waiting fer you today, that’s why we were gone so early!”
“I suppose it would work, but that depends if the Princesses will co-operate.” replied Shuur. Soon a knock at the door pushed them all out of their planning. “Come in.” stated Shuur. Soon the doctor from yesterday came in through the doorway.
He looked up, spotting Shuur he cleared his throat, “Ah, here we are. I’m here for your examination, will take but a second I assure you.” Shuur nodded, the doctor stepped over to Shuur, lit his horn aglow with gold and scanned Shuur. Once he finished, he had a rather surprised look on his face, “Well that’s interesting, your wounds are but little less than bruises now.” Shuur ‘smiled’, he knew it, he was ready to leave. The doctor stared a little longer before reacting, “Well, I suppose you are free to go as you please, your forms were filled in advance by the Princesses. All that’s left to do is replace your armor.” Shuur watched as he lifted said armor off the table, and then his horn shone with a brighter golden light, leaving a flash of white light to cover his vision. Shuur felt the comfortable weight of his armor, he was also standing. He looked to the doctor who was holding as his old gown with a hoof, visibly strained.
Shuur thanked him, and then motioned for the Crusaders to follow him out. They obliged, darting quickly from the chair they all shared, one by one. He began to walk out of the room, until he heard a gasp. Shuur turned to his left to see a nurse he was unfamiliar with. He cursed his leniency before promptly cloaking and crouching, then following the exit signs again. Halfway through, he looked out a nearby window. He saw that this window had a particularly good view of the city as he watched ponies go about their daily business, blissfully unaware of the alien studying them. He stared into the heart of the city, until he noticed that a certain three red dots had gained considerable ground on him. He took a final glance before following the Crusaders, not wanting to fall behind too far.
They finally reached the front door exit, even though it was the same amount of time before, but Shuur swore it took longer. Once they were all outside, the Crusaders began moving towards an alley, obviously wanting to talk. Once they reached the end of the alley, Shuur un-cloaked.
“Well, what do yah plan on doin’ now?” asked Apple Bloom.
“As I said before, I need to meet with your Princesses, which means going to the palace.” The Crusaders all nodded in approval.
“Well then, we’re coming with you.” said Scootaloo, voice almost sounding demanding.
Shuur nodded, “Very well, but I doubt that you will be allowed into the throne room, but stranger things have happened. Let us move.” And with those words, Shuur cloaked and they were off.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
“Finally!” Shuur mentally yelled. They had been walking in circles for about an hour or so. As it turned out, not all roads lead in the direction they start out as. Also, being he had three small fillies with him, Shuur could not simply jump from rooftop to rooftop. The fillies sat down in front of the gate, each one panting from the straight up hour long walk around various hills, slopes and cobble paths.
A guard approached them, “What are three fillies doing at the Royal Palace?”
Scootaloo looked up to him, nearly out of breath she replied, “We… came to… see… the Princesses…*Pant*”
The guard raised an eye brow, “On what grounds?”
Sweetie Belle spoke up, “We… brought… a special… guest…”
The guard’s eyes widened, “Right this way misses.”
They all let out a tired sigh before standing and following the guard inside. Shuur followed, but a shadow in the sunlight, hiding in plain sight. They walked through various halls, each one vaguely familiar to Shuur. After some more walking, they came upon a door with a moon and sun insignia. There were three audible ‘wumps’ as the Crusaders collapsed from exhaustion. The guard turned to them,
“You three may stay out here, and you, whoever or whatever you are, may come inside.” With that, the guard opened the door, they slid soundlessly against their hinges and flowed as smooth as calm water. Shuur was at the least surprised, they knew how to clean up fast. There was absolutely no sign of the battle that ensued here, the windows were fixed the drapes re-sewed, and the thrones restored. Shuur also noted the murals on the stained glass windows, pictures of events long passed. Then he noticed something that surprised him, a mural of Twilight and her friends a smilingly blasting a panicking Discord. Shuur smiled, oh what a fool that so called ‘god of chaos’ was, defeated by ponies and now him.
The guards voice broke him from the stupor, “Your Majesty, the special guest has arrived.” he said in a bowing position.
Celestia smiled then said, “Thank you Strongback you may go, but please have a message sent to my sister, she is to be here for this as well.” Strongback stayed in a bow for a moment longer before heading out the doors. Celestia looked around the room, “You may come out Shuur, most of my guard know of your existence. That and we have very important matters to discuss.” Shuur complied near instantly, his shimmering form appearing as he stepped forward.
“So I have heard, may I ask why you wish to make me a citizen?” He said in a perplexed tone.
She nodded, “Yes, you have acted fairly. Every chance you had to harm us, you didn’t. But, every chance you’ve had to assist us, you have done so with little to no questions.” Shuur ‘smiled’ at her response, he supposed he was good, but, not always. This world had taught him much in the time he had stayed here, and now a life here? It was almost too good to be true, almost. While he liked Equestria, there was little to no chance for the gaining of honor. No armies to slay, or demons to hunt, he was contemplating how bored he might get. Shuurs thoughts were broken by the throne room doors opening, rather violently he might add.
“Sister! You know that I need sleep, just as much…” Luna stopped when she sighted Shuur. “Oh.”
Celestia chuckled, “Yes, now we have important matters to discuss so please, sit.” Luna complied, trotting up to her night sky blue throne; Shuur wondered what it was made of to have such a peculiar color. Luna straightened herself out, looking much more regal, she began staring at Shuur.
He felt slight unease under her glare before Celestia spoke, “Shuur ‘Makhanee, we see it fit that you become an honorary member of Equestria, do you accept?”
Shuur never hesitated, “I, Shuur ‘Makhanee, accept your invitation to become a citizen of Equestria.”
Celestia smiled, “Excellent, but first you must hear our laws, as you are obviously, no pun intended, alien to them. Luna if you will.”
Luna cleared her throat, “Law one, by no exceptions will murder of another citizen be tolerated. Punishment is meet-able by banishment. Law two, necromancy is an illegal act, and punishable by banishment. Law three, stealing an item from another citizen of Equestria is punishable by a maximum of 5 years prison arrest. Law four, any and all acts of offence to another citizen of Equestria will be tried, and is punishable by a maximum of 5 months prison arrest. Law five…” As Luna continued, Shuur saw Celestia lean on one of the arm rests visibly bored.
He was then surprised to hear her voice in his head, “She truly is devoted to her duties, I would have simply gone over the more serious laws, then allowed you to sign the official documents.”
Shuur mentally replied, “Aye, but how long is the list of laws?”
Celestia sighed, “Let’s just say that with all the new laws combined with the old, you may want to find a way to fall asleep with your eyes open.”
Shuur was about to agree, before he remembered something crucial, “That is a problem, I have three small fillies awaiting my return so we may go home. I doubt that they can last a long period of time being bored, they don’t spend a single second of any day not in action.”
Celestia perked up at his response, before looking over to Luna. “Luna, I’m sure that Shuur understands that anything that seems like a bad idea, is probably bad.”
Luna huffed, “Aw com on Cely I never get to do any important government matters. Besides, Law one-hundred and seven is good one, and it’s only ninety nine more!”
Celestia shook her head, “I’m sorry, but Shuur has places to be, fillies to return home, and a home to gain himself.”
Luna raised an eye brow looking in Shuurs direction, “What are you doing with three fillies?”
Shuur sighed, “They came to my hospital room earlier today, and as I learned they haven’t enough money to return.”
Luna frowned, “Oh very well then, here” She said taking out a scroll, quill and inkwell from behind her throne. Celestia then moved a desk from beside her throne, placing it near the soon to be Equestrian. Shuur thought this was good time to show off his new found abilities. He took the quill from Luna’s magical grasp, and then held the scroll and inkwell in place using his own telekinesis. Luna’s eyes widened as he did so.
Celestia looked over to her, “What is it, something on the moon Luna?”
Luna shook her head, “No it is just that I am no longer holding the scroll or inkwell.” Celestia joined Luna’s dumbfounded expression, staring at the inkwell and scroll. In fact, when she looked hard enough, there was a red aura about the scroll and inkwell, not unlike a unicorn’s telekinetic grasp. As Shuur finished signing it in Sangheilian, he floated the items back to Luna, save for the Ponyville house deed. He then thanked them in Sangheilian, and English, before moving towards the door.
He took one last look back at the Princesses, and chuckled, “Something I picked up from a certain God of Harmony.” with that, he opened the door and left. Celestia and Luna looked at each other, and then shrugged, what harm could a little magic do after all? Oh how the following days would prove them wrong. Once Shuur was through the doorway, two guards closed the door behind him. He turned to the Crusaders, all with giddy expressions plastered onto their faces. He smiled back, “Let’s go home, shall we.” They all nodded furiously, obviously excited to both go and live in the same town as alien, not many towns in Equestria can brag about that. Shuur started walking towards the exit, Crusaders in tow. Once they reached the front gates, Shuur was tempted to cloak. He decided against it, if he was a citizen, then he should walk like one. He stepped outside completely visible, not even looking at the townsfolk reactions as he made his way towards the train. Even without looking, he saw ponies stop to look at him, even crash into one another. He allowed himself a silent snort as the reaction spread throughout the town, each pony, no matter a higher end or lower class, stared in disbelief. He didn’t blame them, seeing a eight foot tall alien walking down your capitals road with three fillies in tow wasn’t a common sight.
After some slightly more accurate navigating, they reached the train. He felt a prod on his armor shin. Shuur looked down to see Apple Bloom poking him, but before she could speak, he raised a hand. “Worry not little one, I will handle it.” He walked toward the ticket boot, kneeling so the conductor could see him. He saw a smoke grey stallion with a black mane and blue cap resting in a chair. Shuur tapped the counter for attention. The stallion opened a droopy eye, but the moment he saw Shuur he nearly broke his eyelids. The pony let out a startled cry before falling out of his chair, landing as a shaking heap on the floor. Shuur suppressed a laugh, talking as calmly as he could he asked a simple question: “May we have one free ride?” The stallion seemed to calm a little hearing his native tongue but still too scared to stand.
“S… sure, just please, don’t hurt me!” Shuur sighed, must have been new, this is the way he suspected that they brought him to Canterlot. He turned back to the conductor and thanked him. Shuur backed away, returning to full height; then he looked back to the Crusaders, worried looks on their faces.
“Don’t worry; I got us a ride back for free.”
The Crusaders a sighed in relief, “Ah almost thought that we were gonna get stuck here.” said Apple Bloom. Just then the sound of a whistle got their attention. Shuur turned around, seeing an ancient train pull into the station. Even for Equestria’s low technology, the train looked out of place at the capitals station. The moment the doors opened, a flood of ponies poured out, most of which had business suits or nothing at all.
Upon seeing the gargantuan red giant standing in front of them they mostly stopped, though, some only slowed or didn’t even notice. After a while some passed him off as a statue then moved on, others were still dumbstruck. Then, the flow died out as the few ponies left exited the train. He began moving towards the train before, all of a sudden, every frozen pony began running away, some even screaming something about a monster. He ignored them, boarding the train.
If he thought that some of the buildings were low roofed, then this was toy train height to him. The roof was only about four, maybe five feet high, Shuur basically had to bend himself in half in order to get inside. Once actually in the fifth car back, he decided that heading to the rear was a good idea. He also found out that that the doors were excessively small as well. After a full minute of trial and error, he figured out a way for him to turn his shoulders to fit. He had just sat down in the very back, when he heard the conductor yelling out for all to get aboard. The Crusaders took a seat next to him, all fitting snuggly in the same one. He looked down at them, “We had better go over your plan for arrival, let us talk.” The fillies agreed, and as the train gave a sudden jerk then a blow of the whistle, they were off.
(
ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
“…And so, that will make it look like we were actually there the whole time.” finished Scootaloo. Shuur nodded in agreement, it was a surprisingly solid plan, and even a well thought through back up plan should one of them be spotted moving up to the train. Shuur looked out the window; they were close enough now to see the ponies waiting at the station. A particular orange pony wearing a particular tan hat caught his attention.
“Ooh, so close.” He stated. The Crusaders each looked up at him, then the rose up to look out the window behind him. They all let out panicked gasps, each one now looking between the other nervously. Shuur looked again, seeing that Applejack was not alone; each Element was standing in front of a cars designated location. As they came to a halt, the train gave off an audible phoom, then a blow of its whistle. The doors opened automatically, and ponies began filing out of each car. The Elements began to focus on the rear car, which apparently contained no passengers. Applejack began a steady trot over, finally reaching the car, and peering inside. She saw that Shuur was couching un-cloaked pointing for the Crusaders to go. She cleared her throat, catching all of their attention.
“Now what in tarnation were you three a thinkin’?” she said in a voice stronger than ever, “You all coulda gotten foalnapped, or lost up in Canterlot!” she continued, staring down Apple Bloom the hardest. Shuur began to make his way out, before AJ stopped him. “Hey Shuur, thanks fer bringin’ ‘em back, means a lot to us.” said Applejack, voice a little calmer.
He waved a hand, “Think nothing of it, now, I have a mayor to meet if you don’t mind.”
Applejack tipped her hat to him, “Truly Shuur, thanks. Oh, and th’ town hall is near th’ center of town. Just keep followin’ th’ path from here on in, yah can’t miss it.” Shuur thanked her, moving towards the implied direction, sounds of Applejacks berating’s towards the fillies still present in the background. He wished his friends luck, if they were to survive the verbal thrashing, they would need it. Also, it was a shame such careful planning had gone unused. Shuur was at the least, surprised at how well Scootaloo had formulated the plan. He dare say it was worthy enough for a Spec op to follow in an operation. As he trekked further in town, he noted the amount of ponies giving him odd glances and simply freezing in place where non-existent. Not a single pony stood and stared at him, the most he got was a roll of the eyes. He was going to need some input on this.
After walking further into Ponyville he came across a two story building, or at least Shuur assumed it had two floors, it was hard to tell with the way ponies made structures. Banners atop poles riddled the roof, while swaying slightly in the breeze. A large set of double doors rested in the center on a deck, marking the entrance. Shuur stepped onto the front deck, wood groaning from the sudden weight. He opened the doors wide, and to his surprise, it actually looked rather good inside. Sure it looked like it was bigger on the inside, but just the way the tall poles supported the decorated podium inside looked great. All of the woodwork and furnishings were evenly spread out, and looked as if they could be moved aside with a moment’s notice.
Another thing Shuur noted was the sound of a quill scratching against paper, rather furiously. He moved deeper within the creaky old structure, finding a white maned, tan coated Earthly mare sporting a scroll and blue ribbon cutie mark. Shuur still hated the phrase, cutie mark, but nonetheless he had a mayor to speak to. Shuur cleared his throat, the mare looking up from her papers, and upon seeing him… Did nothing much more than finish her scroll before rolling it up and placing it neatly with others.
She then looked up again, “Ah, you must be Shuur ‘Makhanee, I was told that we would be getting a special guest soon. I hear you have become an official citizen, as well as gaining a deed for a home here in Ponyville, is this true?”
Shuur nodded, “Yes, though I must say, nearly nopony here seemed at the least dazed by my appearance, was I announced to the public?”
The Mayor, or so Shuur assumed as she was the only pony here, shook her head. “No, in fact there would be no need. This town has seen many a strange thing, so much so it is no longer strange to see something strange, if that makes sense.”
Shuur sighed, “Knowing that could have helped when I first arrived. Oh well, here is my deed to a home here, may I know of its location?” The Mayor took his scroll in a hoof, unrolling it and letting her trained eyes study it carefully.
Once she concluded, she rolled it back up and gave it to Shuur, “Your new home is just out front from the Library, Twilights house, its address is 147. Here is the key and new deed, claiming ownership of the home.”
Shuur felt his eye twitch, “The Princesses placed me in front of Twilight, how thoughtful.” Shuur took the small golden key and new scroll, and then thanked the Mayor who nodded in reply before getting back to work. He couldn’t help but feel sorry for her, what a boring job she must have had. Shuur made his way out, closing the main doors behind him.
He followed a convenient map that came with the deed, following it until he came across a two story house, nearly all blank, no color garden decorations. Shuur guessed it was a recent add on, at least he had a choice for color and if he wanted some yard decorations. Shuur stood and stared at the blank building, he had never had an actual home to call his, sure, the Covenant military provided him with a home, but it wasn’t the same. The rooms he slept in were dull, coming with what one needed nothing for the owners comfort, a stiff bed, desk, bathroom, and a single light. This was an entire two stories of well-crafted wooden structure, made for one’s leisure. A home, a house, a yard, a true bed, a kitchen, a living room, and perhaps even a basement.
Shuur released a sigh of tranquility, he was truly home. He walked down the dirt path, perhaps he’d cobble that first, and reached towards the door handle. He used his key, turning it in the spot and… it slid as the house was unlocked. Part of Shuur was surprised; the other more dominant side knew exactly what was coming.
He opened the door, and then turned on the lights… “SURPRISE!” cried half the population of Ponyville. He stood solemnly, “This is going to be a long existence…” Shuur thought to himself.
Pinkie Pie bounced up to him, “Hiyah Shuur!” she chirped happily, “Welcome home! I knew that this was going to be your house because it was all bland and unused, and the only one left in Ponyville! Also the Mayor told me, but hey we got cake, games, cake, cupcakes, cake, pies, punch, hot sauce, even cake!”
Shuur raised a brow, “I am guessing that this ‘punch’ as nothing to do with violence?”
Pinkie giggled, “No silly, it’s a drink! Here, try some.” With that she bounced into the crowd of mingling ponies.
Shuur walked after her, only to be stopped by Twilight, “Hey Shuur, how’s the party so far?”
Shuur shrugged, “I just got here, and have never been to one before so how should I know?”
Twilight blushed, “Oh right, sorry. Let me tell you though, a Pinkie party is the best party, no doubt about it.”
Rainbow flew over, “Yah, no party even comes close to a Pinkie Pie party,” she looked away, “Ooh, they’re starting the games! See ya later Shuur!”
Shuur waved her good-bye, just then Pinkie Pie came bouncing back, impossibly balancing a glass of pinkish purple liquid with a slice of yellow fruit in it. “Here you are buddy, go on, drink up.”
Shuur was about to take the glass, before Twilight intervened, “I’ll take that, don’t worry, if it’s clean you’ll get it back Shuur.”
Shuur was a little confused “Clean? What does she mean by that?” Twilight lit her horn, the light gathering into a snaky wave before diving into the punch. Shuur saw that Pinkie Pie had a sheepish grin on, just then the punch turned a deep blue.
“Aha!” Twilight exclaimed before turning to Pinkie, “You spiked the punch!”
Pinkie kept up her embarrassed smile, “What? It’s not like a little cider hurt anypony, beside it make things funnier!”
Twilight shook her head, “We have no idea what cider would do to Shuur, alcohol could be poisonous to him!”
Pinkie pawed at the floor, “Sorry, I just wondered what it would do, beside nearly all of my parties have spiked punch.”
Twilight was about to retort, when Shuur started laughing. “What’s so funny?” she asked with a raised eyebrow.
Shuur’s deep laughter slowed to a halt, “Nothing, just some old memories. You see, in my earlier days as a Spec op, my third mission to be exact; I came across a package of what I learned was human beer. I shared the spoils with the other Spec op troopers, only to find that when your species never truly developed a liver for alcohol, a Sangheili gets ‘drunk’ easy. I don’t remember much, but we ended up with a bill of 60,000 credits damage report, nearly got our entire squad disbanded as well. I haven’t had any odd human drinks since, too much risk.”
Shuur looked over to Twilight and Pinkie; both had big smiles on their faces. Soon both began to laugh, near uncontrollably. Shuur allowed himself to join the joyful banter; it was all fun and games in those days. After they all quieted down, they began to take turns about their first experiences with alcohol; soon the rest of the Elements had joined as well, even Fluttershy. As they continued, a thought crossed Shuurs mind.
Perhaps it wouldn’t be so painful afterall.
Hello, Doctor here, I would like to here if you like where I’m going with this. I personally like it, Shuur living in a magical land of ponies, having received magic himself, and now a ‘Slice of life’ as it were. I plan to make some more chapters about him living in Ponyville, as long as a majority like the story line, if not… Oh well, good Morning/day/afternoon/night to you all, Doctor out.
Chapter 8 - A day in the life of an alien.
Chapter 8 – A day in the life of an alien.
Not going to be painful my rear end.
Shuur lay on his new bed awkwardly. During the party last night, he found a table stocked to the edges with apple flavored treats. There were no survivors. And now he lay in his new bed, stomach aching worse than the feast in the Hospital.
“Apples will be the death of me.” Shuur commented to himself.
He turned his head up to the window, watching the rays of golden light just peaking over the horizon. Birds chirped their beautiful melodies and the wind whistled softly against the white window sill. The sounds and beautiful light passing through the windows reminded Shuur why he chose to be a resident. No longer did he have to risk his life for a cause he no longer believed in, no longer would he need to make jumps through space to massacre thousands, no longer did he have to be a warrior. He lay in his bed and released a content sigh; this was truly the good life. His good time was struck by a thought that desired nothing but to worry him, how would the townsfolk react to him? Would they open up to him, would they despise him? The party seemed nice, but Twilight said a Pinkie party was not to be missed. Obviously he would need a new set of apparel as armor was reserved for guards. Who could he see for that? Maybe one of his new friends knew someone.
He shifted his weight left and right, building precious momentum. Once at critical velocity, he forced all his weight one direction and landed feet first on the floor. Shuur stood and stretched himself out, noting that the princesses were rather considerate about his home. It was a two story building, but it almost felt like it was designed for him. The roof was higher and the stairs wider. The doors were larger and the kitchen had a fridge, nearly as tall as him. Needless to say, it was a true home, somewhere he could relax. Another depressing thought entered his mind, how much would a home like this cost him? Applejack’s offer still stood, he doubted that any other would ask him for work. He was too new, and he was an alien to them. Shuur sighed, maybe they would welcome him with open… hooves, after all, the mayor said that the town had seen stranger things. His stomach growled, a yes, sugar treats don’t fill one up well do they? Just taste delicious and leave a horrible feeling afterwards. He made his way downstairs, what awaited him in the fridge was still a mystery.
He walked down the oak steps; they creaked under his weight, another reason to get lighter clothing. He reached the bottom and was surprised with the sight. Not a smidgen of evidence remained of the party. Every chair and furnishing was in its place, the floor spotless of confetti and streamers. Shuur stood at the bottom of the steps in shock, Pinkie cleaned up well. He progressed further towards the kitchen, seeking out any traces of the party left behind, not even the carpet stain remained. He would have to ask how she did that; then again, she could have just bought another carpet. He arrived at his destination, a white rectangular pillar of mystery stood before him. He reached towards the white treasure chests handle, eager to find what lie hidden inside.
*Knock Knock Knock*. Shuur groaned, of course.
“Coming.” he yelled.
Shuur stepped away from his white bounty, more than upset that someone would disturb his first true meal. He opened the brick red door, and found a minty green unicorn with an unknown instrument as her cutie mark.
“H…HI!” she started, visibly excited to see him.
“Hello…” replied Shuur, unsure to her purpose.
“Oh my gosh, you really are an ALIEN!” she cheered.
This mare was beginning to freak him out, “Yes, I am, why?”
“Sorry, I just heard that you may have heard of humans before, are they real?”
Shuur raised an eye… brow (I’m still not sure what they use), “Yes they are, I have fought many. Why are you asking me this?”
The mint mare seemed to nearly shake apart, “OH MY GOSH, You just have to tell me about them! I. Have. To. Know.”
If Shuur wasn’t already freaked out, he definitely was now. “Um, may I eat first?”
“Ooh, ooh. What do they eat? The same as you, different, maybe rocks?!?”
“You haven’t even told me your name.” said Shuur, desperately trying to change the subject.
“Lyra Heartstrings, do you know any human names?”
Shuur was still unsure as to whether trust Lyra, or kick her and run. “I do- no, I don’t. None whatsoever go away.”
Shuur tried to close the door, only to have it caught by a minty aura, right, Unicorn. Darn.
“Oh come on, I know a lie when I hear it, tell me tell me tell me tell me!” yelled Lyra.
“No, go away! I haven’t even had breakfast, or even know what’s in the fridge!” Shuur continued to try and close the door, surprised in its durability as he was using nearly all his strength.
“Please, urr, tell me! I have to prove Bon Bon wrong!” complained Lyra.
Shuur could hear her effort, time to work some magic, literally. He reached out with his mind, finding the door covered in a distinct mint aura. He grabbed it, threw it off, and then replaced it with his own forcing the door shut.
“Awwwwwww…” whined Lyra.
“Come back in a two hours, I should be more readied by then.” shouted Shuur, just wanting her gone.
“Huh, fiiiiiiine.” complained Lyra.
Shuur listened to make sure that she was gone, and then gave a sigh of relief. Some people’s ponies, no wait, some ponie’s ponies… Gah, whatever I just need food.
He made the journey back to the white metal wonder, still holding secrets that he dearly wished to know. He reached for the handle once again when…
*Fwash.* “Shuur, you didn’t say anything about magic!” yelled an all too familiar voice; of course Twilight would want to know.
He moaned, would he never find the fridges secrets?
“Yes Twilight, a little something I picked up on my stay.” Shuur was rather hungry.
She raced into the kitchen, “You must show me, I want to know everything!”
Shuur was seeing an early pattern forming, “I only know levitation so far. I don’t even know if it goes beyond that. Please leave me alone.”
“No, there is no escape this time. History, something I dearly want to know, ability to use magic, that’s a need to know now!”
Shuur decided a demonstration was in order. He reached out, grabbed Twilight and began carrying her towards the door.
“I just want something to eat, no disturbances, no ponies, no dangers, just some food!”
He opened the door, placed a dazed Twilight outside, and slammed the door.
“O- Okay, I’ll come back later then.” said Twilight.
Shuur sighed again, this day was becoming stressful. He made his way back to the white wonder; he was going to find out what was in the fridge if it killed him. Just then, He heard a rather disturbing roar emit from outside, followed by a chorus of screams. Enraged, Shuur stomped outside. He threw open the door cracking the walls woodwork. He looked down the road, and saw a rather disturbing sight. A huge lizard thing was walking down main street Ponyville, stomping at passing ponies and lighting the occasional house on fire.
“Hello again Ponyville,” roared the huge green monster, “Remember me? That twerp of a dragon Spike owes me for trying to take my gems! I have come to collect.”
Shuur felt his rage boil over. “Oh no you won’t.”
He cupped his hands into a fist in front of him. He gathered all his strength, condensing it all to one point. The energy followed up by forming as a red ball in his hands. He took a combat stance, gathered more energy than he should’ve, then took aim. He forced the energy away from himself, using more strength than he had left, he shot it in a perfect beam directly towards the creature. This resulted in the beam meeting its forehead and a howl of pain. The creature jerked back, nearly falling over from the sheer force of attack that met him. Shuur’s shoulders fell involuntarily, beyond drained. He heard heavy footsteps and then the breaking of entire tree’s as it retreated. Shuur smiled, now to get back to, hey, was the ground getting closer or- *Wump*.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Shuur was that place again.
“Tsk Tsk,” scolded Harmony, “You shouldn’t have done that Shuur, now you are a rather tired alien aren’t you?”
Shuur looked over to the mass that was Harmony, “I’m sorry if I was hungry, annoyed, hungry, and most of all, ANNOYED!”
“That is no excuse for over exerting yourself, no matter how noble it was. Never overstrain yourself; the result could be worse but at least you’re alive. You know, come to think of it, I believe that’s how Star Swirl went as well. Or was it Discord? Gah, time really doesn’t have that much meaning to me.”
Shuur sighed, “Noted, how long until I wake?”
Harmony ‘smiled’, “Here, not long, there, a couple of hours.”
Shuur released another sigh. This day only got worse, didn’t it.
“Oh stop whining, you put this up to yourself. Anyway time to go, good-bye Shuur, be sure to write. *Snicker*”
Shuur groaned, that was already getting old. The worryingly familiar feeling of waking up brushed against Shuur. He felt the null of reality tug on him, dragging him back to a body.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Shuur’s eyes fluttered open; he disliked unconsciousness, never quite enough. And here it comes… A massive headache attacked Shuur. Urg, yep, just like old times. Shuur realized that these supposed old times, were actually rather recent. He groaned, pushed himself up from the bed and stopped. Bed? He looked down, his bed actually. Oh yes, right, she said a few hours.
Shuur rolled lazily out of the bed, the fridge was calling him. He walked out the bedroom door; the fridge was luring him, wasn’t it? He walked down the stairs; the fridge was a siren and he a sailor. He made his way towards the kitchen; the fridge would never do that. He reached the white beauty; the fridge is my savior .Shuur reached down, placed a hand on the handle, pulled it open and…
Empty. It was F*$^&#@ empty! “WHY FRIDGE WHY-E-E!” He cried into the air, nothing was as it seemed it seemed. During his manly cry, Shuur noticed a note inside the fridge.
It read: Sorry, we have no idea what you eat, so, fill it up as you please!
Shuur fell over backwards, “Oh how you betray me universe.”
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
“Well, that went surprisingly well.” commented Shuur.
He had gone to the market area when he finished with his… session. As it turned out, he was a rural hero. After the dragon ran off, the peop- ponies loved him. He even got a free basket of food for his trouble. Unfortunately, the basket and food were gone. He ate the food after he received it and then threw away the basket. His stomach was still running dangerously low though, he needed more. Luckily he hadn’t ran into –
“Oh, there you are Shuur!” never mind.
Shuur turned around to be greeted with the sight of Lyra, and a pony he did not yet recognize. She had a light tan coat, almost yellow, and a two toned mane between pink and a dark blue.
Lyra looked over to the unnamed mare, “See, alien, and he’s met humans!”
The candy flanked mare sighed, “I can see that Lyra, I admit defeat, you win, humans are real.”
“Yes! Oh Bon Bon, you have no idea what this means to me!” shouted Lyra with excitement.
“Actually, I do, considering that you have been going on about humans since we first moved together four years ago. At least there will be no more questing for ‘human artifacts.’ That last one was the worst.”
“How was I supposed to know that the ruin was griffin made? Only a few ponies got hurt and I came out fine.” shot back Lyra, obviously feeling sound with that evidence.
Bon Bon groaned, “The leader of the expedition said that it was griffin, and you didn’t even listen!”
“Well, um, I uh.” stuttered Lyra.
Shuur saw his opportunity and slowly began to shuffle away. He was all the way to tip toeing before he was caught in a minty glow.
“Nuh-Uh, you said you would be ready in two hours, it’s been four so you should be double ready.” snickered Lyra.
“Fine,” Shuur managed after he stopped struggling, “I will tell you, but can we at least go to my place?”
Lyra looked over to Bon Bon, who just shrugged, “I don’t have anything planned for today.”
“Sure why not.” agreed Lyra after confirming it with Bon Bon.
Shuur was set down relatively gracefully, then proceeded to walk towards their destination. During their walk the occasional pony gave a wave or a decent “hello,” but no one was really eager to strike up a conversation with the magic wielding alien. The dirt road ground under Shuur’s massive armored feet, he really needed new clothes.
They walked at a normal pace, two out of three not really eager to go to Shuur’s house. Lyra bounced along like pinkie would for a while, but stopped soon after when she found out how much in endurance it really required to do so. Bon Bon kept to a regular trot, returning the ponies’ waves and hellos, while Shuur lead them onwards to his abode.
“Finally!” gasped Lyra, out of breath from her hopping spree she fell to the ground.
Bon Bon rolled her eye’s, “Well if you hadn’t tried to jump half the way, you wouldn’t be so tired.”
Lyra just raised a hoof from the ground, “Water… need… water.”
Bon Bon groaned, “Do you have any water Lyra could have Shuur? I’m sorry for her behavior, but she has been at this for years.”
“Well, the sinks have water and I have plenty of glasses, why don’t we all have a break?” offered Shuur.
“Agreed…” muttered Lyra, still lying face first on the ground.
Bon Bon huffed, “Well first, somepony needs to get up, and then we can drink.”
Lyra lazily put a single forehoof in front of her, then another. She sluggishly picked her front up, continued by a similar process to finally achieve a four legged stand. Shuur turned around and opened his door, his door; he loved the way that sounded. It opened with an audible groan, Shuur cringed, reminding himself of the manner he had been using it today. Oh well, he simply hoped he wouldn’t need another soon, it would be hard to explain why his door had broken in less than two days. They made their way to Shuur’s kitchen; he opened a cabinet, removed three glasses, and then poured some water from his sink.
Shuur placed glass in front of each mare who were sitting neatly at the dinner table. Lyra grabbed it the moment it hit the table, throwing the glass towards her dry throat using her magic. Bon Bon continued her rolling eye splurge and drank slowly. Shuur simply sat and watched the two, pondering how such opposites could stand one another.
“So, what do you want to know?” he asked, bringing the glass up to his maw.
Lyra finished with a glassy klink, “Everything!” she gasped.
“Very well then, where to start.”
Shuur looked down at his glass, he was having a hard time drinking from it.
“Stupid glass…” he muttered under his breath.
“Hmm?”
Shuur look up, Lyra was rather diligent to have heard him, she obviously truly wanted to know everything. He smiled, if the events prior were any indication then he should have guessed earlier.
“It’s nothing, now, how about first contact with the humans?” queried Shuur.
Lyra’s head bobbled up and down so fast Shuur feared her neck might break.
“Slow down now, we have plenty of time.” warned Shuur, “Just sit down, relax, and let me tell you what you wish to know.”
Lyra and Bon Bon did as told and relaxed, even if Bon Bon wasn’t as ecstatic as Lyra to hear an alien’s past, she was still excited. Shuur cleared his throat, ready to tell a tale, when a bright purple flash emitted from his living room.
“Hello? Shuur, sorry to keep popping in on you like this but when I heard that you were going to tell Lyra some history, I couldn’t help but just have to be here!”
Shuur sighed; there was an annoying amount of interruptions appearing today. “We’re in the kitchen Twilight, come in and sit down.”
The patter of hooves was heard, and then Twilight came and joined them. She sat next to Bon Bon, fresh scroll and quill at the ready and eyes flared with excitement to rival Lyra’s.
Shuur straightened his position, he would tell them a story like no other.
“Well, where was I? Ah, yes, first contact. It all started out on a Human colony world they named Harvest…”
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
“…And currently, here I sit a resident of your world and I am here to stay.”
Shuur heard Twilight furiously scribble down the last of his statement. He could also see that she was nearly out of room and that she had calmed down considerably from when he told her about the holy flames that could basically melt planets. Lyra’s eyes were seemingly frozen wide open, still a little shocked that Shuur would participate in such atrocities. Bon Bon seemed to be content now, she had sort of expected weapons of mass destruction for some reason, and she had nearly kept her cool, until he told her about the amount of deaths. They were all a little queasy and upset when he told them about the flames, though they seemed to calm down when he told them that he felt rather sorry for the inhabitants and there was nothing he could do.
Shuur looked out a window; that took longer than expected. The sun was at the noon mark when they began, now it sat just above the horizon.
“Aaaand, done. Thanks Shuur, this has been a great learning experience, even the part about the flames... I still don’t understand why your people would do that.” Twilight commented as she finished her notes.
Shuur waved a hand, “No problem, that was actually more pleasant than I thought it would be, though your reactions were expected and I’m still sorry for any emotional scarring.”
“Okay, but really, thanks. I know that the past days here haven’t exactly been pleasant, but with this information we might be able to make it a bit more suitable.”
He chuckled in response, “Pleasant? Twilight, I grew up a trained warrior; this has been the best few days of my life. I have made friends, gained new abilities, and most of all, have a home to call my own for the first time.”
Twilight smiled in kind, “That’s great to hear, not the warrior part but the friends and home part.”
Shuur nodded, it truly had been the best of his days here. He was almost contempt to die here, almost; he didn’t trust this world to do it properly though.
Twilight rolled up her scroll and put the quill inside the bundle.
She looked up to Shuur again, “You really are a nice guy, you know. I mean, for someone raised so young and trained so hard in a military race that can kill planets, you still have a soft heart don’t you.”
Shuur smiled, “Two hearts, and yes I suppose I do.”
Twilight smiled as well, “Okay then, and thanks again Shuur, this has been sort of great.”
She turned around and trotted out of the kitchen, scroll in tow. Shuur looked down to Lyra and Bon Bon. Lyra was simply sitting there with a wide smile, probably feeling like her life was complete or something.
Bon Bon on the other hand was looking Lyra over, “So Lyra, what do you plan to do now?”
“I have no idea.” replied Lyra, expression unchanging, “I know everything I really need to know about humans now, I suppose I’ll just practice my lyre playing more often.”
Bon Bon sighed in relief, “Good, this entire human thing left me rather stressed, I’m also glad that you’re not taking it upon yourself to try and find another lost race to study.” A smile appeared Bon Bon’s face, “And now I’ll have more time to make candy, instead of all my spare time wasted trying to help you find some artifact or random book on humans.”
Lyra’s expression broke, “Oh come on you had fun! Everyone did, well, maybe not the last one but that doesn’t matter. You came with me every time, never disagreed to a single invite to come; I always gave you a choice.”
Bon Bon sighed, “Yes but it’s rather hard to ignore a pony when they begging you with puppy dog eye’s.”
Lyra blushed, “Well you wouldn’t have come if I didn’t. I just wanted somepony I know to join me.”
Bon Bon smiled, “Fair enough, but we should go, I sure that Shuur here has other things he’d like to do.”
With that, Bon Bon jumped out of her chair while Lyra followed suit. Shuur stood and followed them to the front door. He let them outside, waved his goodbyes, and then shut the door.
“It has been a long day, I didn’t even get that much to eat.” said Shuur aloud.
He looked out the window near the front door; the sun was making its final descent over the distant hills. Shuur smiled; perhaps he could give the café shop an IOU. He re-opened the door, and set out for the rest of the day. He had a home, friends, a kind town, powers, and even a lighter mood than he’d ever. But something wasn’t right; Shuur felt a deep aspiration for something. One should be in the highest of spirits if he had such conditions surrounding him. But there was just this hollow point in him, one that worried him. He should be feeling great, giddy even, and here he was sulking.
He looked up at the sky; it was deepening in color near the center, and in the center sat a single bright star. He sighed; it reminded him of himself, a lone thing, foreign to the rest of the terrain. Shuur continued the rest of his walk, an epiphany took him. Of course, he felt so sullen because he was alone on this world. No other Sangheili were there to comfort him. Yes, being part of an alien alliance meant that you get used to foreign species, but there was always an anchor, a species to call your own. Here, Shuur felt as if he was alone, a singular creature on the verge of a breakdown from the shear amount of ponies wanting to see him.
He looked up again, and then found just a smidgen of solace. The lone star was now joined by others, dozens of others. A smile twitched at the edge of his face, there was a chance, just a small one mind you, but still, a chance that they would come here. That he could re-join his brethren and perhaps even sway the princesses to join them. He wouldn’t expect the ponies to become warriors, no, that was against their way of life. Instead, they could mix their magic and technologies to create huge advancements, perhaps even endow the common person with magical abilities. A new era could be born, an era of magic and advancements to rival the Forerunners themselves! Shuur’s pace quickened, if they were ever going to find them he needed to be in the best of shape.
He would convince the ponies to join the Covenant, he would bring forth an era of new technologies and even medicine.
He looked up at the sky again, one day, they would come for them, one day they would see just how amazing these ponies were! And one day, perhaps with the ponies as advisers, they could sum up a peace between the Humans and Covenant. Shuur found himself in front of the café but he didn’t care, there were bright days ahead, and this was just the beginning.
~END~
Chapter one - Planetary Problem
Chapter 1 – Planetary Problem
Shuur 'Makhanee moved like shadow. His comrades showed yellow on his motion tracker; there were also six red dots ahead. He heard his superior Spec op speak over their coms.
“Targets detected, move slow, these demons are to be feared.” Shuur doubted that these human ‘demons’ were much different than the others he had killed, but he obeyed. “Do not let them reclaim the complex, Shuur move up the left!” Again Shuur obeyed his superior. His now transparent figure moved ahead, away from his cloaked comrades. But before he could reach the demon activating the sword base terminal, he felt something grip his back. He was turned around as his camo faltered, and a demon covered in steel grey armor brought out his knife. This is how I am to die? He questioned in his head, at the end of a prehistoric knife? He felt pressure on the top of his helmet as the blade cut through his armor. How could he have known my position, Reach was to be ours! Shuur felt pain spike through his head. For the great journey… Then, whiteout.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Six finished his assassination. Not this time you elite bugger! He let the body fall to the floor. Now where were the rest of you again, god where’s my guide? On the other side of the screen, a child was running frantic in his room, looking for a book.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Shuur awoke with a start, he was lying face down, on dirt. I… I live? He then continued to try to stand, only to regret it. Gah! Would the Jiralhanae with the gravity hammer stop the pounding at once! His head cried with pain, the feeling was now spreading throughout his entire form. Alright I yield, I yield as he let his frame fall to the ground again, tired and confused. Was this the promised land? Or was it just another part of the great journey? The Sangheilian Spec op pondered his continuing existence; his deep red armor gleamed in the sunlight. Wait, sunlight? Shuur raised his head, scanning his surroundings. He was in a forest, filled with the sounds of distant animals.
Now he was truly confused, even if he had survived, would he not be in a human complex? Why was he laying on the ground, in a forest? Where were his robes, a follower of the great journey was to gain the most intricate of robes once they complete the journey! Was his death not honorable enough? Why was he here? The self-attempted query continued on in Shuur’s head until a shuffling in the woods caught his attention. He turned his head to the left to see three small equines, each draped in red gold cloaks baring matching symbols on the same side. Both creatures continued to stare at one another for the longest of times before Shuur heard the orange one speak, actually speak human English.
“What in Equestria are you?” The small purple maned speaking equine asked, then continued to walk forward, only to be stopped by the yellow one standing next to it.
“Scootaloo, don’t go near it, it’ll probably try to eat us or somethin’.” Shuur listened to the second speaker, its vocabulary sounded incomplete. Then the white one spoke up.
“How is it going to eat us if it doesn’t have a mouth?” She questioned. The yellow one examined him before it continued,
“Well maybe not eat us, but it still has those claw things.”
The orange one named Scootaloo spoke again, “Come on Apple Bloom, don’t be such a little filly.”
The Yellow one named ‘Apple Bloom’ now looked upset, “I ain’t no filly, I just think we ought to be careful.” It then turned to the white one, “Right, Sweetie Belle?”
Sweetie Belle then replied, “Actually, I’m with Scootaloo on this one.”
“ See, now come on and let’s check it out!” Scootaloo said with a look of triumph. The excitement emanating from the orange Pegasus was not hidden to Shuur as they approached. However, the same could not be said for Apple Bloom.
When they reached Shuur they continued to look at him, and despite every fiber of his being telling him to scare or kill them, he decided against it. They are but children, and these are a new species to be found by the Covenant, it could bring me honor to grant us new allies. though at first it had scared him that they spoke English, he hadn’t heard them actually call him by the name the humans had dubbed Sangheili so he assumed the English was but a coincidence. But the silence was not last to last, as one found his sword.
“What’s this tube thing?” she said, or at least Shuur assumed that they were female. She then continued to prod it, and that’s when Shuur chose to speak.
“It is my sword, now don’t touch it.” The equines froze, he continued, “I would also be appreciative if your ‘Scootaloo’ got off of my helmet.”
Their reactions were comically fast. Each equine got off at once, and as Shuur stood , they huddled into a little group. He then turned up his helmet speakers as to hear their speech.
“Ah told you it is dangerous, it said sword!” said Apple Bloom.
“Ya, but it spoke equish, isn’t that enough to tell if it’s friendly?” Scootaloo retorted.
“Diamond dogs speak equish, and they’re not friendly.” Added Sweetie Belle.
“Alright, fair point but he’s not a diamond dog.” Scootaloo then added, “But if he is bad, wouldn’t he have tried to hurt us already?” Scootaloo then glanced at the two beside her, who were mulling it over. After some whispering that Shuur couldn’t hear they turned to face him. Scootaloo stepped forward.
“Um, Hi there mister monster guy um,” she seemed to falter, but didn’t have to continue as Shuur stepped in.
“I am no monster, Scootaloo, of that I can assure you,” he stopped to see the equines reaction then proceeded, “Though I am a warrior, I do not intend to do you any harm.”
This seemed to make Scootaloo lighten up enough to smile, which for some reason made Shuur feel a little fuzzy inside. “Well that’s good mister, um sorry what`s your name?” At this question, Shuur faltered slightly. Sure at the said words that they were actually speaking ‘equish’ his thoughts that they were human allies had been quelled, but he didn’t trust them enough to tell them his name.
“You may call me ‘Elite’ for now little ones.”
Scootaloo then began to speak again, “Well mister Elite, would you like to come back with us to ponyville?” Shuur was surprised that they would already want to bring him back to a settlement, but thought better of it when he saw their suns position.
“Very well, I shall join you on your journey back to this, ponyville .” Scootaloo smiled again,
“Alright then off we go.” But before they continued, she turned to the others and shouted in unison,
“CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS, DISCOVERERS YAY! ”
Shuur was taken slightly aback at their sudden outburst, but when they started moving, he followed. What odd creatures thought Shuur, I had better watch myself, who knows what other creatures this planet sustains.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Not much had transpired as the cross species group made their trek through the woods. They spoke seldom, usually to trade info about the others kind. The silence didn’t bother Shuur though, every mission he had ever been on had always required silence. But as he observed, the lack of sound disturbed the equines. Either that, or it was the eight foot tall alien behind them. At the mention that he wasn’t from this world the equines seemed to quiet down considerably, something about sucking out there brains. Scootaloo found it time to ask another question,
“So uh, Mister Elite,” Shuur looked down at the little filly, “What are you here to do, um, I mean if you’re an alien then are you here to take over our planet?” Shuur almost chuckled.
“No little one I am not,” he then looked up at the sky, which was beginning to turn a vibrant orange, “In fact I’m not sure why I’m here.”
The cutie mark crusader all let a relieved sigh. Then Apple Bloom them asked a question to her comrades that had been troubling Shuur for some time, “How do you think our parents will react?” This apparently went unconsidered as Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle suddenly took worried expressions.
“ So mister Elite, do you think you could try to stay out of sight when we reach ponyville?” Sweetie Belle then asked. Shuur couldn’t hold the chuckle that escaped his mandibles.
“Worry not little ones, I can do much more than that.” Sweetie Belle put on a face of doubt but decided to not disagree with the gigantic alien. Just then Apple Bloom let out an excited gasp,
“Girls were here!”
Shuur looked out beyond the forests reach to see a medieval village. He almost broke down right there, It is as I feared, this planet is rather new.
As they approached the now shadow cast village Shuur spoke, “Well little ones it is my time to disappear, worry not I will be at your side the entire time.” Sweetie Belle’s expression had not changed, until she looked back to see Shuur partially cloaked. She gasped, causing the other two to look as well, only for them to join in the gasp as a shadow was all Shuur cast now. He let another chuckle out as he saw there expressions, “As I said before, I am still here.” Apple Bloom gave Scootaloo a worried look, who simply shrugged in return. They decided to go to Apple Blooms place first, a farm as Shuur understood. His suspensions were confirmed as they neared a group of buildings at the top of a hill. Shuur took a moment to look around, they were now going up a path surrounded by trees each bearing odd red fruit.
As they continued he saw a large red building, standing at least nine meters tall. It was a confusing sight, how were equines capable of constructing anything? His confusion only furthered itself as he looked around, each building looked like it was well made, yet they had no dexterous digits. A voice unlike the ones he had heard before caught him off guard, it sounded more matured but still prominently female.
“Apple Bloom, we were all worried right sick about you!” A larger pony now stood in front of the group. Her hat only served to confuse Shuur farther, They make headwear as well, what next, they fly? This question answered itself as a Cyan winged pony flew into the vicinity, stopping mid-flight after seeing the group.
It flew down and began to speak, “Oh gosh there you guys are, I’ve been looking everywhere for ya!” She was female as well, were they all female?
Shuur was now absolutely mind blown. I… that doesn't even… what next they move their sun, don’t think that, chances are… Shuur decided that all of his knowledge of physics were now forfeit. Apple Bloom continued to ask her sister 'Apple Jack' if she could go to the barn.
“Course ya can, why would ya need mah permission?” Apple Bloom didn’t answer, she just thanked her sister and motioned for her friends to follow. As they left Shuur followed, still absolutely mind blown.
They reached this ‘barn’ soon enough. To Shuurs knowledge a barn was a building to store animals, and as usual, Shuur was incorrect. When they opened the doors he expected there to be some sort of animals stored in the many pens, then again, barn could be some sort of guest house in their description. As they entered Apple Bloom closed the doors behind them.
“Um, alright Mister Elite, you can come out now…” Shuur looked around to make sure that they truly were alone, confirming they were he uncloaked. The expression on the three fillies faces truly made Shuurs day. But he had a question that needed answering.
“Why didn’t you tell me that Pegasus could fly?”
Scootaloo looked a little flushed, “Well um, I thought that would kind of be self-explanatory, sorry.” Shuur simply looked down to the little filly, he had never even thought about the possibility of flight. He had believed that the wings were for increased speed, or to further jumps, but not flight.
Shuur simply sighed, “Very well, I guess this is to be my quarters?”
Apple Bloom nodded, “I hope that this is okay, ah mean I hope you don’t take it as offensive, but this all we got that is excluded from our main house.”
Shuur looked around again, this time to locate possible escape routes in case a denizen came to the barn for something. Afterwards, Shuur nodded, “Yes this living quarters will suffice, thank you little one.” Apple Bloom perked up and then yawned.
“Alrighty then, come on girls, let’s get home, ahm tired.” Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo both nodded, and they looked back and waved before Apple Bloom opened the doors, and she too waved. Shuur responded in kind, waving as they left. Great,, now they’re autonomy allows for waving, wonderful. Shuur found a pile of hay to lie upon, true it was not what he would’ve liked to sleep on, but he sucked it up and did so anyway. He began pondering about the day’s events, the mission on Reach, the steel grey demon, waking up in a forest, then finding out that he wasn’t on a mapped planet, and denizens of said planet could defy all knowledge he had of equines, and physics.
He thought that maybe this was more of a hell for those who did not die honorably. He quickly vanquished those thoughts as he had much honor throughout his campaign record. Shuur laid back into a more comfortable position. He lay there waiting for sleep to take him, before he realized that this planets day cycle was different. A most definite Planetary Problem. Shuur groaned, this was going to be a long night.
Heyo all you who are reading this, I would like to mention that this is my first FIC. Also it has also gone under a complete remake, the only things that are the same are the main character and the planet he ended up on. Good day to you all, next chapter on Saturday/Sunday.
Chapter six - battle of the gods.
Chapter 6 – A battle of the gods.
Shuur continued moving towards the castle, if Discord was there then he had to kill him as well to regain his honor. He soon arrived at the gates, only to find a surprise waiting for him. Standing in the front of the door was the demon, though something was different. He seemed to have black wavy tendrils coming from his back, and he could see his eyes were burning red like old charcoal, even through his helmet visor. What was even more surprising was the fact that Twilight and her friends were standing in front of him, only wearing fine jewelry.
Six spoke in an unmistakable voice, “Oh hello Twilight, here to stop me again are we?” Discord Six laughed before waving a hand, in which all of the jewelry disappeared, “Well not this time you won’t! I learn from my mistakes and you shall all burn!” Then all of a sudden, flames shot from Discord Six’s hand. Twilight barely deflected it, she was visibly weakened.
“What… huff… did you do… huff… with the Elements of Harmony? Huff.”
Discord Six laughed again, “I spread them all across the world, they are everywhere and now nothing can stop me! MUHAHAHA!” He stopped suddenly, “You know the evil laugh just doesn’t do justice anymore, I’ll need a new one.” With that, he turned around and headed back inside, forgetting the six now confused mares alone. Shuur crept up to them and un-cloaked.
He got their attention simply, “Boo.” They all turned and yelped, then sighed in relief.
“Shuur, please never do that again.”
Shuur chuckled, “Sorry, now what has transpired?” Twilight nodded, still a little spooked, did he really scare them that much?
“Discord has somehow escaped, possessed the human, and scattered the Elements.”
Shuur tipped his head, “Elements?”
Twilight nodded, “The Six Elements of Harmony, the most powerful magic in the world. We are the Element bearers, I’m Magic, Rarity is Generosity, Fluttershy is Kindness, Rainbow Dash is Loyalty, Applejack is Honesty, and Pinkie Pie is laughter.”
Shuur was still confused, “And these jewelry pieces have helped how?” Twilight looked a little upset.
“They have defeated, Night Mare Moon, Discord twice, plus Queen Chrysalis and her changeling army.”
Shuur was now officially surprised. How could mere pieces of jewelry defeat so many, let alone an army, without scarring the land? He physically smacked his helmet like a face palm, of course, magic , why couldn’t it be some sort of nuclear weapon, at least that made sense. Twilight looked a little concerned for him before a rather large explosion erupted from the castle. They all looked back to see Celestia and Luna hurtling out the front doors.
“And don’t come back!” yelled Discord Six.
“Princesses!” soon the entire group, Shuur included, ran over to the princesses.
Celestia looked up at her student, “Twilight… the Elements… how?”
Twilight shook her head, “I’m sorry, Discord transported them all over the planet.”
Celestia nodded weakly, “Then we are all doomed, he has grown stronger, and now he even has a blood lust.”
Twilight gaped, “But he never really physically hurt anypony, why now?”
Luna’s head rose slightly off the ground. “We believe it is the body he has possessed, most likely because it was a warrior, it poisoned his mind.”
Shuur nodded, “Demons have been known to be excessively violent, even mad at times, a result of their mind scarring training no doubt.”
Before long Shuur heard a voice in his mind, but it was not like before, it was pure, and kind. “I understand if you are confused, but you must listen. This abomination is planning something horrible; it plans to free Tarturus and release all the evil there to ruin this land for him. Please I beg of you, let us combine and I shall give you the strength to regain your honor.”
Shuur was more angry than confused, “First, who are you. Second, why are you all coming to me! Third, go away!”
Once Shuur finished his mental rant, it continued much more sympathetically, “Please, you are the only one with the experience of combat. If I chose another I would scar the poor thing, quickly, decide! The fate of this planet is drawing closer to a definant wasteland!”
Shuur mulled it over, “Fine you seem good. But any funny business, and I’m flushing you out.”
The voice replied soon, “Good, I shall give you the power needed to defeat this… thing, And the knowledge on how to use it properly. Good luck, and I can only hope that this battle of the gods does not rip this reality in half.”
Shuur was a little unnerved by the ending statement, but nonetheless, he accepted. Soon enough Shuur felt like what could only be described as power fill him. He heard his armor groan and morph, as to more fit his potential. He grew in height, gaining two feet and then sprouting golden tendrils of light similar to that of Discord Six’s only they flowed more evenly, like water. He soon looked over himself; his armor looked like a medieval piece in a museum on Sanghelios had collided with his Spec ops armor. He tested the tendrils experimentally, to his surprise, they obeyed without hesitation. He somehow knew that they could be used as extra appendages as well as for flight. What surprised him most was his knowledge of the new energy weapons in his usual wrist dagger compartments. He tested them as well. Finding a shield on his left wrist, and what looked like a medieval long sword on his right.
He flapped his wing and took to the air; he had a means to complete his objective now, and planned to do so. He flew into the castle, leaving a group of very confused ponies in his wake.
“Wha…but how could he just…” Twilight was nearly flabbergasted, only the princesses looked like they knew what was going on.
“I do hope that she told him how to use his power.” said Luna plainly.
“The gods work in odd ways, but I do believe that him flying into the castle is a good piece of evidence that she told him.” Once Celestia finished, Luna nodded as they looked into the broken castle. All of them could only hope that Shuur was victorious.
(ஜ۩۞۩ஜ)
Shuur Flew as fast as his new wings allowed him to. He planned to kill both Discord and the Demon, it was a convenience that they were in one place at the same time.
Shuur heard the voice again, “You may kill the Spartan, but not Discord. While his crimes are large, this world needs chaos in order to stay in harmony. If he died then Order would take over, and with its rule, everything would become bland and the same.”
Shuur growled, “Then what do you propose I do?”
It responded sooner than he expected, “Stab him in the heart, this will render all of his power in a black gem. I will take this gem and seal it, so that its power may still influence this world and total order does not ensue.”
Shuur nodded, “Sounds like a plan. I get my kill, you get your rock.” They continued into the depths of the castle, soon coming up to a door decorated by a broken moon and sun insignia. “This is it, here goes… everything.” He pushed open the doors, finding himself in some sort of mutilated throne room. The windows shattered, drapes shredded, and two thrones lay torn apart, and in a new throne made out of dark energy, sat Discord Six. He spotted Shuur and eyed him curiously, and then smiled.
Shuur wasn’t sure how he knew he smiled, but he knew. “And what is so humorous?”
Discord continued to smile, “Because all that has happened is a growth spurt and some fancy weaponry and armor. I feel no energy coming off of you, and your mind is alone.”
Once he finished, Shuur was surprised to hear its voice, “Worry not young one, I have simply masked myself to get the upper hand. We must strike like a tidal wave, look innocent in the beginning, then hit him hard!” Shuur was not fond of being called little one, but he liked its enthusiasm.
Shuur stood up to the creature, “Then I suppose you would not mind if we duel?”
Discord fully laughed, “HA! No I suppose not, look at you! Even in the face of pure defeat, you try. Oh well, I accept your challenge, Shuur ’Makhanee, En garde!” With those words, Discord rose from his throne. His armor morphed as well, though to a much more savage design, the shoulder pads rose up into small black spikes. His armor darkened in color, and nearly every edge gained the same dark spikes. A sword erupted out of the ground, it required two hands and the rear was also covered in spikes. Soon his visor seemed to explode, leaving behind a burning human skull.
The voice sounded disgusted, “You see, abomination. Now if you don’t mind…” Not long afterwards, text appeared on his HUD. It read: Dark Six, Chaos Abomination.
Shuur sighed, “Really?”
The voice chuckled, “Hehe, sorry. Felt like the right moment for that.” Shuur face palmed a second time that day before Dark Six shouted out and charged them. Shuur raised his shield, easily blocking the blow.
Dark Six was surprised, “But, how did you do that?”
Shuur smiled, “A friend, now my turn.” Shuur soon threw the blade away with his shield, staggering Dark Six. He released a volley of precise cuts and slices, only to find out the speed of his adversary was remarkable to say the least. Dark Six blocked every attack he produced, every one that he didn’t was deflected by Six’s shields, glowing a bizarre purple with every blow. They continued to hit and miss each other for ten minutes, neither getting an advantage over the other.
“ENOUGH!” Dark Six yelled. He backed away swiftly, Shuur followed suit. “Enough, I have the power of a GOD!” Dark Six’s weapon disintegrated, “And I shall use it!” Soon Darks Six began charging a ball of dark energy between his hands.
The voice sounded worried, “Oh dear, that’s not good.”
Shuur was now worried as well, “What’s not good?”
The voice was still a little afraid, “The energy he’s charging is the equivalent to a ‘holy flame’ as your people call them.”
Shuur was panicking now, “WHAT! That attack he is charging has enough energy to burn this entire place to glass?!?”
The Voice made his body nod, “Yes, I know not how he is charging it, but we need to do the same. I will provide strength for it, but it will be up to you to power it and control it. I trust you Shuur ‘Makhanee, let us do this!”
Shuur looked back to Dark Six, who was still charging energy for the blast. Shuur took a combat stance, reaching his hands behind is back, he began charging as well. The energy he amassed was a brilliant golden white. “Good, now be ready to use the energy the exact moment he does or you’ll burn him away, or vice versa.” Shuur nodded, the energy was intense, not in a heat wise sense, but Shuur could feel the sheer magnitude of the power he wield. Then a split moment happened when Dark Six moved his hands forward, Shuur doing the same.
“DIE!!!” screamed Dark Six.
“I SHALL DIE WHEN YOU BOTH PERISH!!!” Super Shuur yelled back. (You like?)
Soon the beams of light collided, making a deafening crackling sound. Shuur instantly felt pressure against all of his body. He observed the beams, he was losing. He felt the pressure increase against him. His mind flashed back to his first times in training, his first mission, his first kill. He was looking back at his life, a sign of death. He knelt in defeat, too tired to continue.
“Giving up already? I will burn this entire mountain to the ground! Then this planet!”
Shuur felt his rage simmer again; this creature was going too far. He had friends on this world, his first friends. He felt a kinship towards them, there were also many a family on this world with similar traits, he would not let them be harmed by this monster, no matter the power it wield. He stood, feeling his strength return; he let out a speech that would last the ages.
“I shall not fall, nor falter in the face of a tyranny so evil that it sees fit to burn planets of innocents, I Shuur ‘Makhanee shall defeat all those who dare attack the innocent by such cruel terms. I will destroy a threat to this world on sight, I will not falter, and I will not tremble, but instead make my enemies fear my name!” With those words, Shuur let loose all the energy he had left, and fed it to the hungry beam.
Dark six glared at Shuur as he said these words. The more he continued, the more the human/god felt his hatred rising. Shuur was soon startled to see Dark six collapse on his knees, howling in pain, the massive amounts of power still remaining in the air, only growing stronger from both sides. Shur was slightly confused to see the dark god of death regain his footing and speak once again, only this time, his voice seemed to have lost the cruelty it had previously. It sounded much more normal. Much more Human.
“How dare you,” the spartan said in a low voice. “HOW DARE YOU speak to me of tyranny and the slaughtering of innocents?! Last I checked I wasn’t the one who Glassed entire planets of civilians. Last I checked I wasn’t the one who killed 20 billion innocent men, women, and children. Last I checked I wasn’t the one trying to exterminate an entire race for simply existing! ”
Shuur stood in shock. The revelation hit him like a pair of mgalekgolo hunters. He had no response. The humans words were correct. How could he speak of such things yet be so ignorant to the crimes and atrocities of his people? The golden clad sangheili now stood conflicted. The human is right. My people have killed in such dishonerable ways. Am I really too different from him? He asked himself. Another part of his mind rose forward. It was in the name of the Great Journey, the humans were an obstacle, and are not worthy of it.
The Great Journey would never order such honorless kills. There is nothing great about the slaughtering of the innocent, or the helpless. Shuurs thoughts were interrupted as his energy faltered. In a last ditch effort to save himself, he transformed the power of the attack into a hastily made shield. Upon doing this, his attack failed, and he was hit with the strength of the blast of dark energy coming at him, barely surviving thanks to his now destroyed shield.
Shuur collapsed from exhaustion. As he rose from the ground he looked up at his opponent only to see the human rapidly approaching him. Shuur braced for impact as the spartan slammed into him with enough force to break a few ribs through his armor. The enraged super soldier/God lifted him into the air, holding him by his neck with one of his black tentacles. Dark six began to rapidly send blow upon blow against the elite, breaking and fracturing several bones in the process, even through his armour.
“You speak of protecting the innocent, well what about the people that inhabited Harvest, Jericho VI, Eridanus II, Arcadia, Reach, and all the other planets you bastards glassed from orbit? Well?” He punctuated the name of each planet with a crippling blow to the head or gut.
“What about them?” Dark six said, staring at Shuur.
“WHAT.”
*Slam*
“ABOUT.”
*Slam*
“THEM?!” Dark six finished with a devastating uppercut to Shuur that would have killed him had it not been for his improved armor. He was sent sprawling across the throne room as he landed in a heap on the floor, groaning in pain.
Struggling to get up, Shuur rose to his feet, bracing himself for the soon to come barrage of new attacks to come his way. Nothing came. On the other side of the throne room stood Dark six, giving him a look that would kill a lesser being. The two warriors stood there, on opposite sides of the room for what seemed to be an eternity. The sangheili warrior was lost in thought, contemplating what the spartan had said once again. The voice in his head once again interrupted.
“Shuur, you cannot let his words poison your minds. We must defeat him together.”
“But that is just it. I helped in the slaughtering of so many innocent lives. Do I have the right to stop him?”
“Do the ponies have the right to die? This is not the time to be lost in such emotions. There is much chaos in your mind right now, and you must focus on the task at hand. You must save the lives of these ponies, you must save the lives of your friends, Shuur!”
The voices words struck a chord in Shuurs soul. A new wave of energy coursed through his body as he stood straighter. With renewed vigor, He stared at Dark six, who was simply staring at the Elite. An inexplicable drive took hold of Shuur, as he felt something worth truly dying for. Not for honor, Not for The Covenant, not for the Prophets, not even for the Great Journey. Shuurs emotions swirled his mind, as the visions of his new friends passed through his eyes. The golden clad warrior/god stood straight and addressed the dark god.
“Your words are true, human. I have no right to lecture you on the slaughtering of innocents. I see now that my hands are stained with the blood of those that had no need nor reason to die. I was played by false Prophets, and have lived a lie my entire life. I will never be able to atone for the many lives that I have helped destroy, I will never be able to wash my hands of my past sins. This much is true.” Dark six took a look of triumph, only to be interrupted by Shuurs words once again. “But I will not let that stop me from protecting the only beings in the universe I have truly cared for. I will not allow you to harm these little ponies. They have committed no crimes as well. While I will never be able to atone and repent of my former bloodshed, I can, and will stop you from destroying this world. With my every breath, my every step, every fiber of by body, I will protect this planet. No matter what becomes of me.”
Dark six took a look of surprise. He didn’t expect this from the Covenant pawn. Shuur saw the spartans gaze lift and soften as he gave a chuckle. “Whaddya know, the pawn has reached the other side of the board.” In a sudden burst of pain, Dark six suddenly fell to the floor, screaming in pain. His voice lost its humanity, and had returned to the former dark taint it had previously.
“Well, that was certainly interesting. Anyway, where were we?” Said the god of death and chaos, as he approached him.
Shuur’s golden tendrils flared out, summoning what strength he had left, he fired a final blast of golden energy. Dark Six summoned a shield, but due to the no longer lingering hate given from noble six, his defensed shattered.
“What! No, I am a GOD! You cannot win! You are an insect to me! GRAH!!!”
Shuur watched as his energy overlapped Dark Six’s, then the blast went harmlessly through the throne of dark energy, and out to the horizon beyond. Shuur fell to the floor, weakened and weary, he felt like he just sprinted the diameter of a planet.
The voice sounded again, it sounded weary as well. “Hehe, was it good for you?” Shuur only groaned in protest. If he ever found he source of the voice…
“Erm sorry, anyway, you have to finish the job.” Shuur looked up, sure enough, there lay the body of Dark Six, it twitched and spasmed occasionally. Again Shuur moaned heavily as he stood, slowly making his way over to the almost corpse. He looked down at Dark Six, the abominations armor was shattered, the skull had almost gone out, and his heart was visible. To his surprise, the former god said, in a once again human voice.
“Do it.”
Shuur nodded and extended his energy longsword, raising the blade above his head; he thrust it into the body. Its mouth opened, like a ghost’s scream and the flame died, soon after a black mist formed, then condensed into an odd black gem. It almost looked like a heart drawn by a child, only with an odd light absorbing glow and a crack down the center.
“I’ll take that. Now prepare yourself.”
Shuur looked up, almost expecting to see the voices owner, “What for?”
The voice chuckled, oddly as they were both tired, “I have given what I can; now when I exit you will suffer a very large amount of stress. So lay down and prepare yourself. Also I am rather proud of you Shuur.”
Shuur smiled as he began to lay, “For what, defeating a being claiming to be a god, saving so many lives, becoming a hero?”
It chuckled again, sweeter this time, “No Shuur, for making yourself realize that a gods way isn’t the only way. Maybe you’ll think of that the next time you see a human.” Shuur lay on the floor flabbergasted. Was it right? “Also, my name is Harmony. You may be familiar with my chosen ones, The Elements of Harmony?” Shuur was at the least surprised, he had never suspected the being in him, was in fact the most revered god of the ponies. He felt as if Harmony had smiled, “Judging by your reaction, the answer is yes, now sleep Shuur, you have earned it.” Shuur felt all of his energy leave him. Everything got very dark very fast, and he didn’t mind, for once, he felt this unconsciousness was going to be a true sleep. Shuur shut his eyes, and slept.
Authors notes: This has gone under some major editing by IMR1fley. Big thanks to him, and his mistake catching skills. Anyway, this WAS going to be the last chapter, but now I must write more because of said editors changes. Oh well, less spare time (Boring time) for me. Another thing is that I will not be writing too much as of recent times, because of school, homework(School), and studying(SCHOOL!!!). One last reason is the early family Christmas that we are hosting in my house this year. We have it early so everyone can come, I have a large extended family on my dad and moms side. There will be no writing this weekend (Early Christmas date). One other last reason is laziness. Good morning/day/night to you all.
Editors Note: IMR1fley here. It’s great to be editing, I’ve had a lot of fun, and I love the feedback. I can’t wait to see what the_doctor_who has planned for the future (insert time travelling Doctor joke here.) Anyway, I hope to see you all soon with a new chapter. Till next time, IMR1fley.