The Divideby AppuhCobblerChapters00 Home03Chapter 06Chapter 07Chapter 04 When Trumpets FadeChapter 05 When Trumpets FadePremonitionsDashAir BattleBring them HellNext Stop, GryphusInaugurationDadTimes Ahead00 HomePONYVILLE The worst thing about being a filly was that one moment you were expected to be an adult, to show self-control. To not be seen weak in front of others. Applejack knew that feeling all too well. They stood under the sunny blue skies in the middle of their tranquil little town of Ponyville. They were in the market place, it was bustling with town folk on this special day. All around them were fillies, colts, mares, and stallions, young and old. Because unlike most normal days, the market place wasn't as crowded. Enjoying Mother's Day was the theme today. In the distance ahead they saw husbands buy flowers from shops and stands, no doubt to please their wives. Some of them were right beside their partner and offered, . Applejack was beginning to think it was a wrong decision to come here "Hey, uh, Applebloom." Applejack said, trying to get out of this part of town and avoid making a scene for Applebloom. "How 'bout you and me go get some ice crea-" Applejack then felt something pressing against her stomach and she turned to look, swaying her blonde ponytail to the other side. She saw Applebloom pressing the side of her head onto her sister's orange coat. "Applejack?" She began, trying to sound firm and resolved. "Yes, Applebloom?" Wrapping her right arm around her sister's face.She was more focused on calming her sister down than shielding her from the eyes around them. She could feel the tears running down her arm. "I want to go home, Applejack." Her face still pressed against hers. "Oh, Applebloom... why'd ya have to climb on one of them taller pine trees?" "Sorry, ma'am. Did you say something?" "Oh I'm- I'm sorry. I was talking to nopony." Applejack turned away from him and started watching the sun set over the horizon instead, embarrassed to realize that she was thinking aloud. She just wanted the coach driver to get her home from the hospital as soon as possible. "What, did Applebloom get into trouble again?" the coach driver asked. "How do you-" "My boy goes to the same school your sister attends. Sweet girl she is, that Applebloom. She must take a lot from you." Usually Applejack would blush toward these comments but after what happened to her sister, she wasn't in the mood. "At least Ah'm not reckless enough to climb on tall dangerous trees, let alone without any of them safety harnesses," Applejack noted before murmured to herself. "The things she'll do for a Cutie Mark." Again, the coach driver caught her words, "Oh, well that explains it then. Of all the stories I've heard of ponies trying to get their Cutie Marks, this one's the most amusing so far. Her destiny of climbing trees," he said to himself, chuckling a bit. "Ah'm glad y'all finding it amusing, bub," she sarcastically said, feeling a wee bit offended," Mah granny and big brother are stayin' with her at the hospital for a while t'keep her company until her hind leg could get all better. Meanwhile, Ah'm goin' to have to look after the farm all by myself." "Well, that's sad to hear on your and Applebloom's part. But don't tell me you never did anything dangerous or threatening to your health in your life." "Yeah, but-" "You've done heroic deeds, not just to Ponyville but to the Kingdom as well." He was right, she thought. She has, after all, with her friends, combated monsters and saved Kingdoms, all of which have been life threatening in some ways. "Sometimes," he went on, "we want to live bigger lives. Live the vicarious lives like Daring Do, Mare Do Well, or the White Mare. Seems like Rainbow Dash is living the larger-than-life story." "Well, Ah ain't Rainbow and Ah'm perfectly fine being a everyday farmer, y'a hear?" she retorted. He noticed her tone was changing, she definiely felt offended by his words. Instead, he didn't stop there. "You sure are modest about yourself." "Look, Granny Smith paid you to get me back home. If it wasn't for Granny Smith hitching a ride for me, Ah'd gladly be walking back home from the hospital or better yet, getting off this ride right now and hoofing it back home!" she snapped. The driver instantly kept his mouth shut and there was a long moment of silence. Applejack pressed her hoof against her face, trying to regain composure. "Just- Just focus on getting back to the farm, Okay? Please." With that, he nodded and continued their way back, without saying another word. 03The cart, according to Big Mac, was left in the field beyond the barnhouse "What in the hay are you doin', Soarin'? Why are ya workin' with these sorts?" Applejack could see the guilt being written all over his face. She couldn't believe someone like Soarin', a member of the Wonderbolts would be in cahoots with these "Look, where we're going is cold enough to freeze the horn of a unicorn." "Ah can handle it," she stridently retorted, "Ah've been to the Frozen North and so it ain't a problem." She looked at the winter parka in Soarin's hooves. They looked awfully familiar, because they were the same clothing Soarin' and the others were wearing. Olive drab, winterized field cap . "And don't think I'm goin' to start wearin' the same uniform you and yer friends are wearin'." Chapter 066 "4th Division?" the griffon officer said aloud, looking at his prisoners . "Vasari, do you recall a '4th Division' fighting here?" A griffon behind him shook his head in response. "No, sir. While this was going on, Applejack was far too concerned with escaping out of here. She was struggling with her binds, keeping her arms behind her back. “ANY PONY! HELP!” her cries for salvation were drowned away by the heavy thundering winds. She was kicking herself for not grabbing the ballistic vest and putting it on before running out and getting shot right in the abdomen. And now, she was rapidly bleeding out. She placed her right hoof onto her stomach, applying pressure to her wound to keep the blood in whilst continuing forward. But she would soon notice that the blood was dripping off her arm, regardless. "Ackph-agph-ack!" She had tried fighting herself from coughing for a while now, knowing how much more it would hurt because of the muscle contractions when coughing. Deep down though, she didn't want to face the truth. She looked at the snow in front of her and saw the spray of red substance on it. The pain was too much. Too unbearable to continue on. Applejack simply sat in place. Sitting on her knees. She waited a while until the pain had seceded even just by a little big. Feeling the pain has gone, she tried to get back on her legs but she just couldn't. It wasn’t the pain or exhaustion that immobilized her. Her pain was gone, but her ability to feel no longer was there. She started to panic at her sudden numbness. Her eyelids began to feel heavy, a burden to keep up. No, no, no, no! Not now, not now! Attempting to get her emotions and rational thoughts under control. She tried thinking of the Apple Orchard, her family, and friends. To see them once again. To embrace them in her hooves. If only for one last time. She would try anything to gather strength to press forward. But it was futile. Her legs were already unresponsive, dead in their tracks. No amount of physical prowess over the years could have her surmount this one last challenge. Applejack felt tears coming again, despite her efforts to the contrary. Against her better judgement, she let a tear fall. And another. Then another. Soon enough she lowered her head away from what’s in front of her, to where her final resting place will be. Her tears, despite how little they were, gave off some warm but it too quickly disappeared, becoming cold and dead. She was a mess of sadness, loneliness, and hopelessness. Before she knew it, she found her face planted on the snow. She didn’t even notice her bitter cold on her cheek until she opened her eyes. She quickly felt himself drifting off to sleep. Permanent sleep. She let out one last breath of air trapped in her lungs. Forcing one last sentence out of her. “Ah’m sorry ah can’t be there, everypony.” Chapter 07She heard footsteps, getting louder and louder before it stopped. Then she heard breathing. "You're alive." A voice said. At the voice of this unknown figure, she looked up, opening her eyes and blinking against the light. Applejack's tried clearing her throat. It had been so dry she could barely talk. "Whe- where am I? How long have I been here. Who are you!" "Whoa, kid. Easy, there." The voice said, seeing Applejack trying to get back up only to slump back down. It still hurts, Applejack thought. Her The room was sparesly furbished. It was like the caverns the Griffons occupied, only limited to one small room. There wasn't much to list outside a few cooking appliances laying around the fireplace placed in the center of the room. The most interesting element of the room were the books placed on top of two shelves. She couldn't read out those names though they were all hardcovers and probably well organized. "What, has the army gone so lily-livered that they can't even give their own soldiers the bare minimum protection against firearms, now? Don't tell me Equestria has gotten this weak the last time I laid eyes on them." She begged, before going off to rubbing her hoof against her face, unable to comprehend what she believed to be the further embarrassing deterioration of the military of Equestria. "He fired "He managed to fire that close-up to you? By the looks of your wounds, I can tell you that it's near impossible to get rid in " "I... I was on the edge of escapin' outta the camp before he took me by behind. Stupid ol' me thought I could take him 'case he tried followin' me outside or decided to fire at me right then and there," she let out a small sigh, "I thought I coulda taken him... " Applejack didn't know whether to feel embarrassed or utterly foolish for taking that risk. Probably both deservingly, she concluded for she very narrowly survived by her teeth thanks to this . “Ah guess it just made sense at the time.” She joked, trying to make light of the incident. Applejack managed to take a good look at her savior. Like her herself, her captor wore a fleece cloak to fight off the cold of winter. She couldn’t make out what she was wearing under her cloak though it seemed like it was something black with flap and buttoned pockets on it similar to a soldier’s vest. As for her actual body; she had a pink coat, though slightly less as pronounced as her friend, Pinkie Pie. Her blue mane seemed short, slightly shorter than someone like Rainbow Dash. She knew this when her captor turned her head around to grab a mug for the both of them. Finally, her violet eyes reminded her of Twilight Sparkle. Unlike Twilight though, her eyes did not bear the same spark she had. To her, for some reason, it felt... empty and deprived. "Y'have a name?" she asked, having just received the steaming drink in her hooves and bringing it closer to her chest. Instead of replying, she cocked an eyebrow as soon as she sat back after reaching over to Applejack to give her the warming drink. Gah! Stupid question. 'Course she has a name. If it wasn’t for the cold, her cheeks would have been as beaming red as a skin of an apple in midday back home on the Apple Orchard. There was no way she “Before I tell you how close minded and foolish you were for picking a fight with a griffon, explain to me how and why you’re here. You army? Of course you are. You must be army or else why on Equestria would you be in this forsaken frostbitten wasteland. Besides, I already noticed that shoulder patch when I dragged you back here.” She pointed at Applejack’s shoulder, “4th Rolling Hearts Division.” She spelt out, awaiting Applejack’s explanation whilst taking sips out of her own mug before it lost its warmth. Applejack took a brief moment to read out the arm patch, which she previously never bothered to read when Redlove gave her the uniform as a disguise back in Ponyville. “Er- yeah. I’m actually not part of the army,” she awkwardly admitted. “Mercenary?” “No. I’m neither.” Applejack waited for a reply but she didn’t so she continued, “I actually came here to find a member of my family. She’s a little filly.” “And what on earth is a filly still doing here?” She sounded agitated. She rested her mug to the side. “I thought the army evacuated the goddamn people!” “You’re crazy. Y’know that?” “Hmph, says the mare livin’ all by herself in the Frozen North with no reason of bein’ here.” She retorted, sipping the last amount of the soothing hot tea down her throat. She quietly scoffed at Applejack before getting off the floor and heading towards the exit that was a couple paces away from the fireplace to survey the outside. “Listen, Applesnack.” “Applejack.” “Even if I told you what direction to take and how long it would take, the winds will blow you off course and you may well be walking blind in a circle endlessly. Why don’t you just wait? Give the Frozen North two- maybe three weeks more and maybe the weather’ll clear up and you’ll get back to camp safely.” she suggested, returning to sit beside the fireplace. “That’sa long time.” Applejack expressed worryingly, “I can’t take that risk, not with Stonewall’s leavin' by the end of this week.” “Stonewall?” Applejack nodded, “Mhm, Stonewall promised to tell me where that filly is. I was suppose to know this but well, the company got ambushed before I could return an’ now I’m stuck here with ya.” “He was suppose to tell you when you got back. And is this Stonewall, a captain or...?” “Stonewall’s the one reporting back t’Canterlot. I’m not so sure what his rank is but all I know is that he seems t'know a lot about what's going on here." “I'm sure he does." She softly said to herself. Applejack's ears perked up, slightly catching her quietly muttered words. "Sorry, what was that?" "Nothing," she shook her head and got back on her legs again, stretching them out, turning her neck around, and patting down the snow off the coat, “You know, I could take you back to camp if you're this impatient." Applejack, caught by this change of heart was confused, "But the win-" "That was if you went alone. And in your current condition, you wouldn't last long. Hay, what if one of them griffons or rebels got ta ya? Look, with me, kid... it will be a breeze." She promised, giving off a cocky smirk before walking out the exit. That last remark really struck Applejack. She really reminded Applejack of her friend, Rainbow Dash. Applejack barely even knows her and yet trusts this mare to bring her back to camp safely across the Frozen North. In fact, she doesn't even know her name yet. Her head popped back in the entrance. "Well? Y'coming?" "Sure!" Applejack replied excitingly. In an instant, she too got back on her legs, stretched them and her neck a bit, though not too much, not with the wound and all, and joyously walked toward the exit, knowing that . If she didn't have any discipline or composure, she would've squealed aloud at that moment. "Looks like we found her, sister." "Indeed. Should we proceed to intercept?" "No. He warned us about her kind. "Did he even give us her name?" "It was a fine thing you came when you did. Really mean it, Miss...." No answer. Applejack's beaming smile was slowly disappearing. "Back in Ponyville and everywhere else, most would say 'no problem' or 'your welcome' to the one who helped them ou-" "It's called modesty, Applejack." She interrupted, "You don't have to repay anything to me. There are some ponies in this world who do what aren't willing to do. Those who ask nothing in return but the betterment of others." "Applejack found truth in her words, but still was relentless to get to know her name without being direct, still afraid of impeding on her privacy. "So- er... you don't mind the weat-" "Well, if you're gonna ask, then ask." "It's Pryde, Applejack. My name's Pryde. You see how much more simpler it could've been if you asked?" Chapter 04 When Trumpets Fade4 Two things happened the next morning. Of the two, the first thing that happened was that most ponies were talking. She could hear them chatting rather loudly outside of her tent but she fell back into her sleep. The sun hasn't risen up yet, she thought. She and her family generally would wake up at the sight of dawn. The Frozen North however, rarely saw the light of day in all its clarity. None of the Equestrians here were used to the lack of light, as well as the shorter days and longer nights. Not an ideal place for Applejack, even if she was an Earth pony. The second thing that happened was a rude awakening by a soldier. He startled her when she heard the ripping sound of the zipper climb up. While the sun was not out like it would be at home, the snow behind him in the camp blinded her, forcing her to cover her eyes. "Rise and shine, miss. Or should I say 'rise and blind'?" he chuckled. She did not share the same sentiment but he continued, "The captain is gathering mares for the patrol now. He wants you, apparently." She was adapting to the sudden breach of light and lowered her hoof. "What time is it?" "0800 hours." "Ah thought the expedition were to take place in the afternoon." "Well, I'd assume he wants to start early than later, considering how shorter the day is here in the Frozen North. The last thing anypony would want is to return t'camp when everything's gone pitch dark, the weather can get brutally unforgiving the later it is with the temperature dropping below -10." “The As the walked along the company of soldiers prepping for the expedition, she heard the whispers. "I heard we're going up north. Y'know, that outpost," the soldiers would say. "It's bad up there." “Uh... Hey there. Would you fellas mind tellin’ me where Captain Badger is at?” she asked "Come on, fillies. Move out!" she called out to his troops. "Say goodbye to warm food and proper heating 'cause you wont be seeing none of that where we're headin'." He turned back to Applejack, "And where's your helmet, convict?" Applejack gave Captain Badger a confused look for a moment. She was too bothered by what was occuring in the background and soon found her eyes being pulled to the side. She watched the company that had just begun to stir, gathering up their equipment, strapping theirs rifles, helmets, and other gear, getting ready for another day of routine patrol. She could hear friends separating, bidding farewells and good luck to one another, vows of buying rounds in the bar when they returned going about. "I can give the hat to the quartermaster for safe keeping, if you want." She suggested. Applejack snapped back to Badger, totally caught off guard. Nopony has ever really told her what should and shouldn't be on the top of her head, well, except Rarity on several occasions but that usually involved a complete makeover, from head to hoof. In fact, Applejack rarely went anywhere outside or even inside her home without her hat and because no one ever approached her on that subject, she never had to think about it. It was her family hat after all and she'd go on about it had it not been for Badger breaking her train of thought. "Well?" "The hat stays, Captain." "There's no lost and found here in the Frozen North, but I think you're a grown mare." He smirked, turning in the other direction to . "I like you kid. You're the best entertainment Chapter 05 When Trumpets FadeFor a long time, nopony said a word. They all marched in silence; Unicorns, Pegasi, and Earth ponies side by side.The road was so narrow, the soldiers found themselves marching in a thin line; three soldiers per row and if given proper visibility, one would clearly see how thinly stretched the company was. Applejack assumed the silence was due to the weather, the cold relentless freezing windstorms that were keeping everypony's head down and forcing silence onto everyone. Eventually, when the weather let up a bit, a few ponies would start a song or a chant, and one by one, the rest of the group would join in. When the depressing weather returned, silence would return. Then more song or chatter when it went away. This was the pattern for the rest of the morning. "Been with the Guard for years," Badger said after some time, "Today marks my eleventh year in the service." "Ah never got why anypony would want an' join the Royal Guards," Applejack wondered, "I mean, . 'Cause I know there are militias and they do a mighty decent job at keep the security in their home town. I guess I don't know why we need Royal Guards prepare "We're far too overstretched, yes. Sometimes we gotta leave the towns at our frontiers in the hooves of the locals. "You're talking about the Apple Rangers, am I right?" Applejack didn't know whether to take it positively or not but she nodded in honesty. "I've always admired the Apple Rangers," Badger willingly acknowledged, "They're good folk. Their intentions and hearts are in the right places; helping those the army or Royal Guards cannot help and abiding by honorable principles. It's a shame they never seem to want to lend their support to us." "And why's that?" The Captain sighed, "A long story, Applejack. Let's just say "Captain!" Somepony yelled out through the mist. It came from ahead on the . It was impossible to see anythingApplejack heard a murmur somehwere near her, claiming that it was a member from the scouting party Badger had sent out to Soon, the murmurs grew louder and louder, as they passed the news to their comrades behind them. Applejack trotted to Badger and the supposed scout party. The dark silhouetted figures in the mist soon became distinguishable as she came closer, but so did the bodies, or corpses to be precise. "Aw no..." Applejack whimpered in disbelief. It had been a long time . She tried to stop herself from shaking but it was no use. To see the frozen corpses of ponies, keeping their same expressions as they died, was just too much for her to bear. "Applejack?" Badger said, but she just now covered her fears and sorrow by covering her face with her hat, as a sign of coping. Badger "They're from the company manning the outpost, sir," the leader of the scout team said. "Are you sure?" The team leader walked up to one of the corpses, looking awfully unsettled. "She served with me at Vanhoover, sir." Badger looked on at the three corpses while the team leader continued, "More and more bodies are being discovered the more and more we continue on this road. I think it's best we assume the worst." "All from A Company," Badger troublingly said. He quietly muttered a curse under his breath. "Sir! Sir!" a voice came screaming from behind, where the main body was positioned on the road. The soldier came through the frost cloud and stopping right in front of Badger, panting heavily as he spoke. "P- pri- private Leatherhoof, sir. Officer St- St- Steelhoof sent me." "What is it, private?" Finally catching his breath, he continued, "Some of the soldiers believe they saw movement on the two opposing snow mounds on each side of the road." "Yes, sir. Steelhoof . "Has he prepared to fight?" "He's waiting for your orders." Leatherhoof concluded, also waiting for orders. They were all waiting orders. His main body of troops, Leatherhoof, the Scouting Party, and he himself as well. Badger rose to his feet. It was time, he thought to himself. The scouting party and Leatherhoof watched as Badger paced back and forth on the road, thinking out the forty mare-strong company's next move. About forty new recruits' lives were now in his hooves to lead into battle and preferably, return home safely. Not all of them would make it but he had to try, still. He shut down everything around him, the sounds of the windstorm became muted, allowing him to think properly. He knew a full retreat was unlikely at this stage, it had taken the entire morning to get where they are now and the ponies were obviously exhausted now. Surrender? To Griffons? He and his soldiers probably would rather die than be taken prisoners. Surrender was out of the question. "We stand and fight, lieutenant." He firmly announced to the scouting leader and she saluted, followed by an afirmative response. He then to Leatherhoof, "Get back to Steelhoof and tell him to get his end of troops to get into a defensive position. Pass the word to those at the front most of the column that the enemy is here." While Leatherhoof was running back to the rear lines, Badger believed that spreading this news to the front column would quickly spread throughout the company and the officers. By the time Leatherhoof had reached Steelhoof, most soldiers would have been aware of the situation. "They're everywhere!" "Hold your positions!" Badger angrily snapped back, unable to single out the defeatist had no time to find out who. AnWe're dead! . Before the few officers even realized it, what little forces they still had remaining, had now broken and were routing in every direction. Blinded by the snow storm and confused by the sounds of gunfire that felt like it was coming from all directions and screams of agony littering the battlefield, many soldiers found themselves routing in all directions, . The officers tried rallying their troops but it was too late and soon, they themselves began to flee from the scene. Off to her side, she caught a glimpse of a fellow soldier, also racing up the hill though several paces away from her. Rolling down the slope like a ragdoll. All she could do to defend herself against her surrounding enemies. She tried looking for an opening between any of them but they were too tightly spaced to another. Still thiking, a pony tried to ram himself at Applejack only to have Applejack side strafe out of the way. She drove a hind leg into the ribs on the attacking pony's vulnerable side, sending him diving forward into the snow. He caught a lightsaber strike on his beskar vambrace, then tried to drop an iron-gloved fist across the bridge of Caedus's nose-only to find himself striking at empty air when his foe was already ducking away and driving him back with a shoulder to the midsection. Premonitions"She doesn't exist." With those words, uttered without concious thought or much effort, Luna sat upright and looked around in the dimly lit chamber. Within her view, she saw a table littered with personal belongings; books, scrolls, feather tip pens, There was. She turned towards the window. It was night time, which meant- "Another nightmare, sister?" A bright light illuminated in the room and slightly blinded the recently awoken princess, causing her to shield her eyes against it. The light then dimmed, showing the tip of the horn and soon her sister came into vision. "I'm sorry, Luna." She apologized for blinding her. She forgot her sister just had woken and while she could barely see at this time of hour, Luna "I've had these... Dreams a couple times before." "The same dreams?" "No, not exactly the same dreams but they do have certain recurring elements?" "Such as?" "Anger. Hate. And revenge." Celestia magenta eyes remained dead center on Luna. "Have these ever come true?" " DashSwift stood by the bridge, looking down at the area around Tall Tale. From the bridge of the Guiding Light, the dense forests around Tall Tale shone a brilliant green against the snow-covered Smokey Mountains. The sheer beauty reminded her of her career traveling around the world over the years and how contrasting they've been The vast stretches of barren desert of the Roam, the endless formations of high-rising mountains in Gryphus, and the immeseaurable expanses of the oceans. It was crewed not just by pegasi, but unicorns, and earth ponies too and recently, a few Crystal ponies have joined its crew. To her critics, they saw . But those back in Canterlot and its ruler has . There have been talks of decomissioning the Guiding Light. Swift was very keen of this ship. Sailing across the world, from oceans to deserts and as well as she would resign than to have this ship be decomissioned and placed in some museum. And unfortunately, "Captain, it's been forever." "I'd like to introduce my new lieutenant." Rainbow Dash soon walked in through the entrance and gave a firm salute. "Lieutenant Dash, ma'am!" "At ease, lieutenant." "This your first time on board the capital ship?" Rainbow Dash gulped upon hearing the last part. "Yes, ma'am. The only ships i've been on have been civillian ones." "Enjoy it while it lasts. " "What about the Seperatists in the North? Or has the weather been too stubborn?" Rainbow Dash was taken back by that, she didnt know about this conflict Air BattleMuch of the Sky Navy has been deployed along the entire eastern coast, leaving the Guiding Light, the Flagship of Equestria, escorted by two cruisers; the Spear and the Manticore. The Spear was very much an offensive cruiser, its main gun placed at the prow of the ship to punch through the hull of enemy ships while the Manticore was more of a fortress-like ship, armed all around the ship to fend off attackers from all sides and to take a beating. Sirens wailed through out the capital ship. Hooves thundered on the bulkheads. Within moments, the first wave of pegasi launched into the air to provide air cover, intercepting any enemy fliers. They quickly formed a wobbly line behind the mound of clouds as ordered Commander Swift. It has been years since Gryphus and Equestria crossed swords and Gryphus had been devestated by civil war, but Swift knew better than to underestimate her foes thus she opted for a more cautious approach. But that wasn't their job, however. they'd been ordered to screen the airships. The airships were dangerously hiding behind the screen of clouds and while it did provide cover from the Griffon war birds, griffon fliers could easily ambush them by using the clouds. by the time they'd come into view, it would be too late to engage with the enemy with their ship's weaponry. Hence Swift stood firm on her decision to form a screening by pegasi to intercept the enemy in case this had happened. Rainbow Dash waited impatiently behind the cover of the clouds. It was just one ship and they had three, one of which was the pride of the Equestrian Sky Navy. if she'd be in charge, she would have ordered the airships to move into the clouds and get a jump on the Griffon war birds. Then again, Rainbow Dash also argued that the war bird may be cruising casually to trick them into thinking that they haven't noticed their airships, and just luring them out into a trap to be shredded in the open air. She gulped just thinking about that scenario, let alone being in combat itself. She had heard of how large the rounds on one of those autocannons can be and just imagining the cracking and thundering sounds against her ears alone made her change her mind. She had all the reasons to be terribly afraid, whether she'd want to admit it or not. Not only was this her first combat mission but these colts and mares under her command were all from Ponyville, some even being from the same Wonderbolts Academy training months back. She was faster than the rest but she was forced to stay close to her team, so no lonewolfing this time, she told herself, "Still out of range, ma'am." And it's still heading towards Manehatten," Swift said, pondering on her next move. The warbird may be luring them out or just proceeding to probably bombard the city and they're totally unaware of the three airships lying in wait. Either way, Swift had to stop it, and it meant that they'd have to attack, trap or no trap. "Officer, prepare to set a course for that warbird." "Ma'am?" "If we don't stop it, Manehatten will be sitting ducks. The last thing I want to see is another city burning in the night," she explained. "Relay this order to the Spear and the Manticore. I want our ship and the Spear to attack it, while the Manticore and fliers cover our left flank." "Yes, ma'am." he saluted, proceeding to send the message by magic. "We're taking that warbird out." "Ma'am!" Swift turned about to the officer hailing her. "Multiple contacts incoming towards us. They Bring them Hell"My friends, it has often been said that I like war. My friends, I like war... No, friends, I love war! I love holocausts. I love blitzkriegs. I love defensive lines. I love sieges, charges, I love mop-up operations, and retreats. Wars across prairies, in streets, in trenches, in grasslands, in frozen tundras, through deserts, on the sea, in the air, I love every act of war that can occur upon this earth. I love blasting the enemy to smithereens with artillery salvos that thunder across the lines of battle. My heart leaps with joy whenever a soldier is tossed high into the air and cut to pieces by well placed sniper rounds. And there is nothing like a tank operator using a Tiger 88 to destroy enemy tanks. And the feeling that comes when a soldier runs screaming from his blazing tank only to be mowed down by heavy machine gun fire, is such an exquisite feeling. Like when ranks of infantry brandish their bayonets rushing into the enemy line. It moves me deep within my heart to watch a fresh recruit stabbing over and over into the bloated chest of a long-dead enemy. The sight of deserters being strung up from a street lamp is an irresistible pleasure. And there is nothing more arousing, than the sounds made by prisoners of war dropping like flies, screaming in agony as they're mowed down by ear piercing schmeissers! When a band of pitiful resistance fighters makes their final stand with nothing but small arms, only to have their city smashed to atoms block by block by 4.8 ton bombshells, I'm in ecstasy. I love it when my forces are ravaged by a Russian armored division. It's so sad to see towns and villages that were supposed to be defended at all costs, being laid to waste, their women and children being raped, and killed. I love to be squashed under the heel of the British and American war machines. The humiliation, as my men crawl around like vermin, ducking the jagdbombers flying overhead. Gentlemen... All I ask for is war, a war so grand as to make Hell itself tremble. Gentlemen, I ask you as fellow brothers in arms, what is it that you really want? Do you wish for further war as I do? Do you wish for a merciless, bloody war? A war whose fury is built with iron, and lightning, and fire? Do you ask for war to sweep in like a tempest, leaving not even ravens to scavenge, from this Earth!? Very well. Then krieg is what you shall have. We are a clenched fist, ready to strike down all who oppose us, with our might. But... After enduring over half a century wallowing in the darkness, for us, a simple "ordinary" war will no longer be sufficient. We need a MASSIVE war! A war beyond any other that man's history has ever known! We are but a single battalion... The remnants of a defeated army numbering less than a thousand strong. However, I believe that each of you old warriors is equal to a thousand of their sickly soft children! We represent a force that could easily defeat an army of a million and one men! It is time for them to awake the ones who sent us screaming into oblivion, and who now lie sleeping. Let's drag them out of bed by the hair, and remind them of what we are! We will remind them of what it feels like to live in fear. We will remind them of the sound our jackboots make against their throats. We will remind them, that there are more things between Heaven and Hell than are dreamt of in their philosophy. Our Kampfgruppe of one thousand vampires is going to burn this world down to ash. Yes, my friends! Soon, Europe's charred remains will illuminate the night sky! I have brought you all back just as I promised I would. Back to our favorite battlefield. Back to our beloved war! At last the sea lion has crossed the ocean and is heading up the hill. Attention all soldiers of the Millennium Battalion this is a message from your commander… friends, let’s bring them hell." Next Stop, GryphusFllies and gentlecolts. I am pkeased to announce to you that we will be hitting the shores of Gryphus in ten minutes. The weather forecast? Applejack: And how was it there in Gryphus. I never been there nor know anyone who'd done so, 'cept you, Pryde." Pryde: Well for starters- can you lend a help here?" Applejack helps Pyde lift the debris off the ground. Pryde: Weather's not great. The rain in the foothills would turn to snow in the mountains. The soil in most of Gryphus was hard. It was heavy clay that turned rock hard when dry but slick as ice after rain and snow. The road had no guardrails, so I really felt sorry for the earth and unicorns since they can't fly and were prone to falling off the edges, plummeting to their deaths over hundreds of feet. But don't get me started on the weather shifts, the weather can change from 14 degrees in one hour, then to -20 degrees in the next hour. Beautiful country, kid. Absolutely beautiful but also a wretched place to live." Applejack would look up to Pryde in intervals while doing the heavy lifting. InaugurationShe had heard of him before in the news but she never was too interested in reading news or current events. But now with her new role and new life, she'd have to. All she really knew of his background was that he was born on the east coast, moving from Manehatten to Fillydelphia to Baltimare. He apparently had traces of Trottingham blood in him since his mother was from that dominion, which meant he might possibly be a spotted pony. A rare occurence in Equestria, or at least, frim the cities and areas she's visited. "He beat his own father," Twilight said in an attempt to show to her peers that she did have at least some knowledge of what was going on. "Senator Rhubarb." "It was a close victory for that young colt," Celestia said in astonishment. "In the past, it's generally been sweeping victories for one of them and it's never been this close. To think a pony slightly older than you get elected by winning parliamentary votes and popular vote must've been preposterous back then." "That may explain why he's so popular with the fillies." Luna said grimly, Celestia held in her chuckle even though it wasn't a joke to Luna. ""I don't like him." "Yu don't have to like him, Luna. You and him may have gotten off a bad start but you two more or less share the same beliefs." "It's how he . He doesn't seem to respect his opposition or anypony that dares question him." "I'm sure he was stressed and tense when you met him. He is trying to become chancellor of Equestria. If he is as bad as you claim, he'll have to comprimise and get along with the other politicians." "That's if he doesn't order them to resign." "But he can't order us to resign." Celestia reminded. Luna already knew this but she couldn't help but remain unenthused. Still waitng for his arrival, Twilight, curious, asked away. "So what can he do as Chancellor?" Celestia scanned the crowd to see if the Chancellor's arrival was coming soon but it seemed not, so Celestia made room to answer her student. "As Chancellor, he's responsible for managing and leading the central government. Make sure laws are passed, what role our government has in things like our daiky lives, and "And what does that make of us?" "In the past, the Chancellor would . We princesses and royal family members would . "Have we ever come into conflict with the chancellors?" "Generally no. We aren't usually seen among them and we both tend to leave each other alone. Rhubarb use to never interact with us. I guess Luna actually "Who were his supporters?" Celestia was quick to answer. "He got a starting place with the cities on the eastcoast, the crowded industrial hubs. He got a lot of cheers when it came to distributing wealth. He then got popular with Cloudsdale and other cities by promising more better government. But in short, he really got popular thanks to his motto: "One for all and all for one." " "And enemies?" "He has some opponents. Mainly from . But he had strong support in the east and Cloudsdale "?" "Us, Twilight." Luna briefly explained, holding in her sigh. "Looks like he's here." Celestia announced, seeing a column of troopers coming around the corner, anticipated by the roaring cheers from the crowd. "Be on your best behavior, girls." Celestia said warmly as the three broke contact and then looked ahead. Twilight, looking at the still unimpressed Luna decided to raise her spirit. She whispered, "Maybe you can teach me how to handle politicians like him, Luna." Luna's frown then turned into a half smile, something Twilight had learnt that meant she was impressed. "The corporate think they can own you like a product. I was elected because . One for all and all for one." Dad"Rainbow!" She let the words pass right through her. He wrapped his arm around her, but she gently pressed her hoof against his chest, "Dad!" she snapped, "The flying hay were you doing out there!" He was about to speak before she cut him, "You could hav "Look, Dash. I volunteered to serve on this fleet because it's my duty to protect Equestria. "You're not a fighter, dad," Rainbow Dash said bitterly. "All you ever did was put out fires. I know firsthand about Griffons and just tossing water on them won't cut it." "I saved lives, Dash." Her dad emphasized, keeping his calm tone. "And what if you died, Dad?" Her words cut him like a blade. He didn't feel like this since many years ago when the incident happened. If he failed to save everyone back then, what prevented him from perhaps saving his ow- Attention! Attention! All senior officers, please report to command station. Junior officers, as well. Repeat, all senior and junior officers, please report to the command station. "Good luck." He shouldn't Times Ahead"You risked my life for your war, Red!" Applejack's grip around her neck began to tighten. "Do you honestly think you would have went there had I told you the truth?" She asked, sounding not one bit intimidated but amused at Applejack's attempt. "That there was some unjust war occurring to the north? Colts, mares, and fillies dying, their homes burnt and left in ruins, while the rest of Equestria sits by and does nothing
00 HomePONYVILLE The worst thing about being a filly was that one moment you were expected to be an adult, to show self-control. To not be seen weak in front of others. Applejack knew that feeling all too well. They stood under the sunny blue skies in the middle of their tranquil little town of Ponyville. They were in the market place, it was bustling with town folk on this special day. All around them were fillies, colts, mares, and stallions, young and old. Because unlike most normal days, the market place wasn't as crowded. Enjoying Mother's Day was the theme today. In the distance ahead they saw husbands buy flowers from shops and stands, no doubt to please their wives. Some of them were right beside their partner and offered, . Applejack was beginning to think it was a wrong decision to come here "Hey, uh, Applebloom." Applejack said, trying to get out of this part of town and avoid making a scene for Applebloom. "How 'bout you and me go get some ice crea-" Applejack then felt something pressing against her stomach and she turned to look, swaying her blonde ponytail to the other side. She saw Applebloom pressing the side of her head onto her sister's orange coat. "Applejack?" She began, trying to sound firm and resolved. "Yes, Applebloom?" Wrapping her right arm around her sister's face.She was more focused on calming her sister down than shielding her from the eyes around them. She could feel the tears running down her arm. "I want to go home, Applejack." Her face still pressed against hers. "Oh, Applebloom... why'd ya have to climb on one of them taller pine trees?" "Sorry, ma'am. Did you say something?" "Oh I'm- I'm sorry. I was talking to nopony." Applejack turned away from him and started watching the sun set over the horizon instead, embarrassed to realize that she was thinking aloud. She just wanted the coach driver to get her home from the hospital as soon as possible. "What, did Applebloom get into trouble again?" the coach driver asked. "How do you-" "My boy goes to the same school your sister attends. Sweet girl she is, that Applebloom. She must take a lot from you." Usually Applejack would blush toward these comments but after what happened to her sister, she wasn't in the mood. "At least Ah'm not reckless enough to climb on tall dangerous trees, let alone without any of them safety harnesses," Applejack noted before murmured to herself. "The things she'll do for a Cutie Mark." Again, the coach driver caught her words, "Oh, well that explains it then. Of all the stories I've heard of ponies trying to get their Cutie Marks, this one's the most amusing so far. Her destiny of climbing trees," he said to himself, chuckling a bit. "Ah'm glad y'all finding it amusing, bub," she sarcastically said, feeling a wee bit offended," Mah granny and big brother are stayin' with her at the hospital for a while t'keep her company until her hind leg could get all better. Meanwhile, Ah'm goin' to have to look after the farm all by myself." "Well, that's sad to hear on your and Applebloom's part. But don't tell me you never did anything dangerous or threatening to your health in your life." "Yeah, but-" "You've done heroic deeds, not just to Ponyville but to the Kingdom as well." He was right, she thought. She has, after all, with her friends, combated monsters and saved Kingdoms, all of which have been life threatening in some ways. "Sometimes," he went on, "we want to live bigger lives. Live the vicarious lives like Daring Do, Mare Do Well, or the White Mare. Seems like Rainbow Dash is living the larger-than-life story." "Well, Ah ain't Rainbow and Ah'm perfectly fine being a everyday farmer, y'a hear?" she retorted. He noticed her tone was changing, she definiely felt offended by his words. Instead, he didn't stop there. "You sure are modest about yourself." "Look, Granny Smith paid you to get me back home. If it wasn't for Granny Smith hitching a ride for me, Ah'd gladly be walking back home from the hospital or better yet, getting off this ride right now and hoofing it back home!" she snapped. The driver instantly kept his mouth shut and there was a long moment of silence. Applejack pressed her hoof against her face, trying to regain composure. "Just- Just focus on getting back to the farm, Okay? Please." With that, he nodded and continued their way back, without saying another word.
03The cart, according to Big Mac, was left in the field beyond the barnhouse "What in the hay are you doin', Soarin'? Why are ya workin' with these sorts?" Applejack could see the guilt being written all over his face. She couldn't believe someone like Soarin', a member of the Wonderbolts would be in cahoots with these "Look, where we're going is cold enough to freeze the horn of a unicorn." "Ah can handle it," she stridently retorted, "Ah've been to the Frozen North and so it ain't a problem." She looked at the winter parka in Soarin's hooves. They looked awfully familiar, because they were the same clothing Soarin' and the others were wearing. Olive drab, winterized field cap . "And don't think I'm goin' to start wearin' the same uniform you and yer friends are wearin'."
Chapter 066 "4th Division?" the griffon officer said aloud, looking at his prisoners . "Vasari, do you recall a '4th Division' fighting here?" A griffon behind him shook his head in response. "No, sir. While this was going on, Applejack was far too concerned with escaping out of here. She was struggling with her binds, keeping her arms behind her back. “ANY PONY! HELP!” her cries for salvation were drowned away by the heavy thundering winds. She was kicking herself for not grabbing the ballistic vest and putting it on before running out and getting shot right in the abdomen. And now, she was rapidly bleeding out. She placed her right hoof onto her stomach, applying pressure to her wound to keep the blood in whilst continuing forward. But she would soon notice that the blood was dripping off her arm, regardless. "Ackph-agph-ack!" She had tried fighting herself from coughing for a while now, knowing how much more it would hurt because of the muscle contractions when coughing. Deep down though, she didn't want to face the truth. She looked at the snow in front of her and saw the spray of red substance on it. The pain was too much. Too unbearable to continue on. Applejack simply sat in place. Sitting on her knees. She waited a while until the pain had seceded even just by a little big. Feeling the pain has gone, she tried to get back on her legs but she just couldn't. It wasn’t the pain or exhaustion that immobilized her. Her pain was gone, but her ability to feel no longer was there. She started to panic at her sudden numbness. Her eyelids began to feel heavy, a burden to keep up. No, no, no, no! Not now, not now! Attempting to get her emotions and rational thoughts under control. She tried thinking of the Apple Orchard, her family, and friends. To see them once again. To embrace them in her hooves. If only for one last time. She would try anything to gather strength to press forward. But it was futile. Her legs were already unresponsive, dead in their tracks. No amount of physical prowess over the years could have her surmount this one last challenge. Applejack felt tears coming again, despite her efforts to the contrary. Against her better judgement, she let a tear fall. And another. Then another. Soon enough she lowered her head away from what’s in front of her, to where her final resting place will be. Her tears, despite how little they were, gave off some warm but it too quickly disappeared, becoming cold and dead. She was a mess of sadness, loneliness, and hopelessness. Before she knew it, she found her face planted on the snow. She didn’t even notice her bitter cold on her cheek until she opened her eyes. She quickly felt himself drifting off to sleep. Permanent sleep. She let out one last breath of air trapped in her lungs. Forcing one last sentence out of her. “Ah’m sorry ah can’t be there, everypony.”
Chapter 07She heard footsteps, getting louder and louder before it stopped. Then she heard breathing. "You're alive." A voice said. At the voice of this unknown figure, she looked up, opening her eyes and blinking against the light. Applejack's tried clearing her throat. It had been so dry she could barely talk. "Whe- where am I? How long have I been here. Who are you!" "Whoa, kid. Easy, there." The voice said, seeing Applejack trying to get back up only to slump back down. It still hurts, Applejack thought. Her The room was sparesly furbished. It was like the caverns the Griffons occupied, only limited to one small room. There wasn't much to list outside a few cooking appliances laying around the fireplace placed in the center of the room. The most interesting element of the room were the books placed on top of two shelves. She couldn't read out those names though they were all hardcovers and probably well organized. "What, has the army gone so lily-livered that they can't even give their own soldiers the bare minimum protection against firearms, now? Don't tell me Equestria has gotten this weak the last time I laid eyes on them." She begged, before going off to rubbing her hoof against her face, unable to comprehend what she believed to be the further embarrassing deterioration of the military of Equestria. "He fired "He managed to fire that close-up to you? By the looks of your wounds, I can tell you that it's near impossible to get rid in " "I... I was on the edge of escapin' outta the camp before he took me by behind. Stupid ol' me thought I could take him 'case he tried followin' me outside or decided to fire at me right then and there," she let out a small sigh, "I thought I coulda taken him... " Applejack didn't know whether to feel embarrassed or utterly foolish for taking that risk. Probably both deservingly, she concluded for she very narrowly survived by her teeth thanks to this . “Ah guess it just made sense at the time.” She joked, trying to make light of the incident. Applejack managed to take a good look at her savior. Like her herself, her captor wore a fleece cloak to fight off the cold of winter. She couldn’t make out what she was wearing under her cloak though it seemed like it was something black with flap and buttoned pockets on it similar to a soldier’s vest. As for her actual body; she had a pink coat, though slightly less as pronounced as her friend, Pinkie Pie. Her blue mane seemed short, slightly shorter than someone like Rainbow Dash. She knew this when her captor turned her head around to grab a mug for the both of them. Finally, her violet eyes reminded her of Twilight Sparkle. Unlike Twilight though, her eyes did not bear the same spark she had. To her, for some reason, it felt... empty and deprived. "Y'have a name?" she asked, having just received the steaming drink in her hooves and bringing it closer to her chest. Instead of replying, she cocked an eyebrow as soon as she sat back after reaching over to Applejack to give her the warming drink. Gah! Stupid question. 'Course she has a name. If it wasn’t for the cold, her cheeks would have been as beaming red as a skin of an apple in midday back home on the Apple Orchard. There was no way she “Before I tell you how close minded and foolish you were for picking a fight with a griffon, explain to me how and why you’re here. You army? Of course you are. You must be army or else why on Equestria would you be in this forsaken frostbitten wasteland. Besides, I already noticed that shoulder patch when I dragged you back here.” She pointed at Applejack’s shoulder, “4th Rolling Hearts Division.” She spelt out, awaiting Applejack’s explanation whilst taking sips out of her own mug before it lost its warmth. Applejack took a brief moment to read out the arm patch, which she previously never bothered to read when Redlove gave her the uniform as a disguise back in Ponyville. “Er- yeah. I’m actually not part of the army,” she awkwardly admitted. “Mercenary?” “No. I’m neither.” Applejack waited for a reply but she didn’t so she continued, “I actually came here to find a member of my family. She’s a little filly.” “And what on earth is a filly still doing here?” She sounded agitated. She rested her mug to the side. “I thought the army evacuated the goddamn people!” “You’re crazy. Y’know that?” “Hmph, says the mare livin’ all by herself in the Frozen North with no reason of bein’ here.” She retorted, sipping the last amount of the soothing hot tea down her throat. She quietly scoffed at Applejack before getting off the floor and heading towards the exit that was a couple paces away from the fireplace to survey the outside. “Listen, Applesnack.” “Applejack.” “Even if I told you what direction to take and how long it would take, the winds will blow you off course and you may well be walking blind in a circle endlessly. Why don’t you just wait? Give the Frozen North two- maybe three weeks more and maybe the weather’ll clear up and you’ll get back to camp safely.” she suggested, returning to sit beside the fireplace. “That’sa long time.” Applejack expressed worryingly, “I can’t take that risk, not with Stonewall’s leavin' by the end of this week.” “Stonewall?” Applejack nodded, “Mhm, Stonewall promised to tell me where that filly is. I was suppose to know this but well, the company got ambushed before I could return an’ now I’m stuck here with ya.” “He was suppose to tell you when you got back. And is this Stonewall, a captain or...?” “Stonewall’s the one reporting back t’Canterlot. I’m not so sure what his rank is but all I know is that he seems t'know a lot about what's going on here." “I'm sure he does." She softly said to herself. Applejack's ears perked up, slightly catching her quietly muttered words. "Sorry, what was that?" "Nothing," she shook her head and got back on her legs again, stretching them out, turning her neck around, and patting down the snow off the coat, “You know, I could take you back to camp if you're this impatient." Applejack, caught by this change of heart was confused, "But the win-" "That was if you went alone. And in your current condition, you wouldn't last long. Hay, what if one of them griffons or rebels got ta ya? Look, with me, kid... it will be a breeze." She promised, giving off a cocky smirk before walking out the exit. That last remark really struck Applejack. She really reminded Applejack of her friend, Rainbow Dash. Applejack barely even knows her and yet trusts this mare to bring her back to camp safely across the Frozen North. In fact, she doesn't even know her name yet. Her head popped back in the entrance. "Well? Y'coming?" "Sure!" Applejack replied excitingly. In an instant, she too got back on her legs, stretched them and her neck a bit, though not too much, not with the wound and all, and joyously walked toward the exit, knowing that . If she didn't have any discipline or composure, she would've squealed aloud at that moment. "Looks like we found her, sister." "Indeed. Should we proceed to intercept?" "No. He warned us about her kind. "Did he even give us her name?" "It was a fine thing you came when you did. Really mean it, Miss...." No answer. Applejack's beaming smile was slowly disappearing. "Back in Ponyville and everywhere else, most would say 'no problem' or 'your welcome' to the one who helped them ou-" "It's called modesty, Applejack." She interrupted, "You don't have to repay anything to me. There are some ponies in this world who do what aren't willing to do. Those who ask nothing in return but the betterment of others." "Applejack found truth in her words, but still was relentless to get to know her name without being direct, still afraid of impeding on her privacy. "So- er... you don't mind the weat-" "Well, if you're gonna ask, then ask." "It's Pryde, Applejack. My name's Pryde. You see how much more simpler it could've been if you asked?"
Chapter 04 When Trumpets Fade4 Two things happened the next morning. Of the two, the first thing that happened was that most ponies were talking. She could hear them chatting rather loudly outside of her tent but she fell back into her sleep. The sun hasn't risen up yet, she thought. She and her family generally would wake up at the sight of dawn. The Frozen North however, rarely saw the light of day in all its clarity. None of the Equestrians here were used to the lack of light, as well as the shorter days and longer nights. Not an ideal place for Applejack, even if she was an Earth pony. The second thing that happened was a rude awakening by a soldier. He startled her when she heard the ripping sound of the zipper climb up. While the sun was not out like it would be at home, the snow behind him in the camp blinded her, forcing her to cover her eyes. "Rise and shine, miss. Or should I say 'rise and blind'?" he chuckled. She did not share the same sentiment but he continued, "The captain is gathering mares for the patrol now. He wants you, apparently." She was adapting to the sudden breach of light and lowered her hoof. "What time is it?" "0800 hours." "Ah thought the expedition were to take place in the afternoon." "Well, I'd assume he wants to start early than later, considering how shorter the day is here in the Frozen North. The last thing anypony would want is to return t'camp when everything's gone pitch dark, the weather can get brutally unforgiving the later it is with the temperature dropping below -10." “The As the walked along the company of soldiers prepping for the expedition, she heard the whispers. "I heard we're going up north. Y'know, that outpost," the soldiers would say. "It's bad up there." “Uh... Hey there. Would you fellas mind tellin’ me where Captain Badger is at?” she asked "Come on, fillies. Move out!" she called out to his troops. "Say goodbye to warm food and proper heating 'cause you wont be seeing none of that where we're headin'." He turned back to Applejack, "And where's your helmet, convict?" Applejack gave Captain Badger a confused look for a moment. She was too bothered by what was occuring in the background and soon found her eyes being pulled to the side. She watched the company that had just begun to stir, gathering up their equipment, strapping theirs rifles, helmets, and other gear, getting ready for another day of routine patrol. She could hear friends separating, bidding farewells and good luck to one another, vows of buying rounds in the bar when they returned going about. "I can give the hat to the quartermaster for safe keeping, if you want." She suggested. Applejack snapped back to Badger, totally caught off guard. Nopony has ever really told her what should and shouldn't be on the top of her head, well, except Rarity on several occasions but that usually involved a complete makeover, from head to hoof. In fact, Applejack rarely went anywhere outside or even inside her home without her hat and because no one ever approached her on that subject, she never had to think about it. It was her family hat after all and she'd go on about it had it not been for Badger breaking her train of thought. "Well?" "The hat stays, Captain." "There's no lost and found here in the Frozen North, but I think you're a grown mare." He smirked, turning in the other direction to . "I like you kid. You're the best entertainment
Chapter 05 When Trumpets FadeFor a long time, nopony said a word. They all marched in silence; Unicorns, Pegasi, and Earth ponies side by side.The road was so narrow, the soldiers found themselves marching in a thin line; three soldiers per row and if given proper visibility, one would clearly see how thinly stretched the company was. Applejack assumed the silence was due to the weather, the cold relentless freezing windstorms that were keeping everypony's head down and forcing silence onto everyone. Eventually, when the weather let up a bit, a few ponies would start a song or a chant, and one by one, the rest of the group would join in. When the depressing weather returned, silence would return. Then more song or chatter when it went away. This was the pattern for the rest of the morning. "Been with the Guard for years," Badger said after some time, "Today marks my eleventh year in the service." "Ah never got why anypony would want an' join the Royal Guards," Applejack wondered, "I mean, . 'Cause I know there are militias and they do a mighty decent job at keep the security in their home town. I guess I don't know why we need Royal Guards prepare "We're far too overstretched, yes. Sometimes we gotta leave the towns at our frontiers in the hooves of the locals. "You're talking about the Apple Rangers, am I right?" Applejack didn't know whether to take it positively or not but she nodded in honesty. "I've always admired the Apple Rangers," Badger willingly acknowledged, "They're good folk. Their intentions and hearts are in the right places; helping those the army or Royal Guards cannot help and abiding by honorable principles. It's a shame they never seem to want to lend their support to us." "And why's that?" The Captain sighed, "A long story, Applejack. Let's just say "Captain!" Somepony yelled out through the mist. It came from ahead on the . It was impossible to see anythingApplejack heard a murmur somehwere near her, claiming that it was a member from the scouting party Badger had sent out to Soon, the murmurs grew louder and louder, as they passed the news to their comrades behind them. Applejack trotted to Badger and the supposed scout party. The dark silhouetted figures in the mist soon became distinguishable as she came closer, but so did the bodies, or corpses to be precise. "Aw no..." Applejack whimpered in disbelief. It had been a long time . She tried to stop herself from shaking but it was no use. To see the frozen corpses of ponies, keeping their same expressions as they died, was just too much for her to bear. "Applejack?" Badger said, but she just now covered her fears and sorrow by covering her face with her hat, as a sign of coping. Badger "They're from the company manning the outpost, sir," the leader of the scout team said. "Are you sure?" The team leader walked up to one of the corpses, looking awfully unsettled. "She served with me at Vanhoover, sir." Badger looked on at the three corpses while the team leader continued, "More and more bodies are being discovered the more and more we continue on this road. I think it's best we assume the worst." "All from A Company," Badger troublingly said. He quietly muttered a curse under his breath. "Sir! Sir!" a voice came screaming from behind, where the main body was positioned on the road. The soldier came through the frost cloud and stopping right in front of Badger, panting heavily as he spoke. "P- pri- private Leatherhoof, sir. Officer St- St- Steelhoof sent me." "What is it, private?" Finally catching his breath, he continued, "Some of the soldiers believe they saw movement on the two opposing snow mounds on each side of the road." "Yes, sir. Steelhoof . "Has he prepared to fight?" "He's waiting for your orders." Leatherhoof concluded, also waiting for orders. They were all waiting orders. His main body of troops, Leatherhoof, the Scouting Party, and he himself as well. Badger rose to his feet. It was time, he thought to himself. The scouting party and Leatherhoof watched as Badger paced back and forth on the road, thinking out the forty mare-strong company's next move. About forty new recruits' lives were now in his hooves to lead into battle and preferably, return home safely. Not all of them would make it but he had to try, still. He shut down everything around him, the sounds of the windstorm became muted, allowing him to think properly. He knew a full retreat was unlikely at this stage, it had taken the entire morning to get where they are now and the ponies were obviously exhausted now. Surrender? To Griffons? He and his soldiers probably would rather die than be taken prisoners. Surrender was out of the question. "We stand and fight, lieutenant." He firmly announced to the scouting leader and she saluted, followed by an afirmative response. He then to Leatherhoof, "Get back to Steelhoof and tell him to get his end of troops to get into a defensive position. Pass the word to those at the front most of the column that the enemy is here." While Leatherhoof was running back to the rear lines, Badger believed that spreading this news to the front column would quickly spread throughout the company and the officers. By the time Leatherhoof had reached Steelhoof, most soldiers would have been aware of the situation. "They're everywhere!" "Hold your positions!" Badger angrily snapped back, unable to single out the defeatist had no time to find out who. AnWe're dead! . Before the few officers even realized it, what little forces they still had remaining, had now broken and were routing in every direction. Blinded by the snow storm and confused by the sounds of gunfire that felt like it was coming from all directions and screams of agony littering the battlefield, many soldiers found themselves routing in all directions, . The officers tried rallying their troops but it was too late and soon, they themselves began to flee from the scene. Off to her side, she caught a glimpse of a fellow soldier, also racing up the hill though several paces away from her. Rolling down the slope like a ragdoll. All she could do to defend herself against her surrounding enemies. She tried looking for an opening between any of them but they were too tightly spaced to another. Still thiking, a pony tried to ram himself at Applejack only to have Applejack side strafe out of the way. She drove a hind leg into the ribs on the attacking pony's vulnerable side, sending him diving forward into the snow. He caught a lightsaber strike on his beskar vambrace, then tried to drop an iron-gloved fist across the bridge of Caedus's nose-only to find himself striking at empty air when his foe was already ducking away and driving him back with a shoulder to the midsection.
Premonitions"She doesn't exist." With those words, uttered without concious thought or much effort, Luna sat upright and looked around in the dimly lit chamber. Within her view, she saw a table littered with personal belongings; books, scrolls, feather tip pens, There was. She turned towards the window. It was night time, which meant- "Another nightmare, sister?" A bright light illuminated in the room and slightly blinded the recently awoken princess, causing her to shield her eyes against it. The light then dimmed, showing the tip of the horn and soon her sister came into vision. "I'm sorry, Luna." She apologized for blinding her. She forgot her sister just had woken and while she could barely see at this time of hour, Luna "I've had these... Dreams a couple times before." "The same dreams?" "No, not exactly the same dreams but they do have certain recurring elements?" "Such as?" "Anger. Hate. And revenge." Celestia magenta eyes remained dead center on Luna. "Have these ever come true?" "
DashSwift stood by the bridge, looking down at the area around Tall Tale. From the bridge of the Guiding Light, the dense forests around Tall Tale shone a brilliant green against the snow-covered Smokey Mountains. The sheer beauty reminded her of her career traveling around the world over the years and how contrasting they've been The vast stretches of barren desert of the Roam, the endless formations of high-rising mountains in Gryphus, and the immeseaurable expanses of the oceans. It was crewed not just by pegasi, but unicorns, and earth ponies too and recently, a few Crystal ponies have joined its crew. To her critics, they saw . But those back in Canterlot and its ruler has . There have been talks of decomissioning the Guiding Light. Swift was very keen of this ship. Sailing across the world, from oceans to deserts and as well as she would resign than to have this ship be decomissioned and placed in some museum. And unfortunately, "Captain, it's been forever." "I'd like to introduce my new lieutenant." Rainbow Dash soon walked in through the entrance and gave a firm salute. "Lieutenant Dash, ma'am!" "At ease, lieutenant." "This your first time on board the capital ship?" Rainbow Dash gulped upon hearing the last part. "Yes, ma'am. The only ships i've been on have been civillian ones." "Enjoy it while it lasts. " "What about the Seperatists in the North? Or has the weather been too stubborn?" Rainbow Dash was taken back by that, she didnt know about this conflict
Air BattleMuch of the Sky Navy has been deployed along the entire eastern coast, leaving the Guiding Light, the Flagship of Equestria, escorted by two cruisers; the Spear and the Manticore. The Spear was very much an offensive cruiser, its main gun placed at the prow of the ship to punch through the hull of enemy ships while the Manticore was more of a fortress-like ship, armed all around the ship to fend off attackers from all sides and to take a beating. Sirens wailed through out the capital ship. Hooves thundered on the bulkheads. Within moments, the first wave of pegasi launched into the air to provide air cover, intercepting any enemy fliers. They quickly formed a wobbly line behind the mound of clouds as ordered Commander Swift. It has been years since Gryphus and Equestria crossed swords and Gryphus had been devestated by civil war, but Swift knew better than to underestimate her foes thus she opted for a more cautious approach. But that wasn't their job, however. they'd been ordered to screen the airships. The airships were dangerously hiding behind the screen of clouds and while it did provide cover from the Griffon war birds, griffon fliers could easily ambush them by using the clouds. by the time they'd come into view, it would be too late to engage with the enemy with their ship's weaponry. Hence Swift stood firm on her decision to form a screening by pegasi to intercept the enemy in case this had happened. Rainbow Dash waited impatiently behind the cover of the clouds. It was just one ship and they had three, one of which was the pride of the Equestrian Sky Navy. if she'd be in charge, she would have ordered the airships to move into the clouds and get a jump on the Griffon war birds. Then again, Rainbow Dash also argued that the war bird may be cruising casually to trick them into thinking that they haven't noticed their airships, and just luring them out into a trap to be shredded in the open air. She gulped just thinking about that scenario, let alone being in combat itself. She had heard of how large the rounds on one of those autocannons can be and just imagining the cracking and thundering sounds against her ears alone made her change her mind. She had all the reasons to be terribly afraid, whether she'd want to admit it or not. Not only was this her first combat mission but these colts and mares under her command were all from Ponyville, some even being from the same Wonderbolts Academy training months back. She was faster than the rest but she was forced to stay close to her team, so no lonewolfing this time, she told herself, "Still out of range, ma'am." And it's still heading towards Manehatten," Swift said, pondering on her next move. The warbird may be luring them out or just proceeding to probably bombard the city and they're totally unaware of the three airships lying in wait. Either way, Swift had to stop it, and it meant that they'd have to attack, trap or no trap. "Officer, prepare to set a course for that warbird." "Ma'am?" "If we don't stop it, Manehatten will be sitting ducks. The last thing I want to see is another city burning in the night," she explained. "Relay this order to the Spear and the Manticore. I want our ship and the Spear to attack it, while the Manticore and fliers cover our left flank." "Yes, ma'am." he saluted, proceeding to send the message by magic. "We're taking that warbird out." "Ma'am!" Swift turned about to the officer hailing her. "Multiple contacts incoming towards us. They
Bring them Hell"My friends, it has often been said that I like war. My friends, I like war... No, friends, I love war! I love holocausts. I love blitzkriegs. I love defensive lines. I love sieges, charges, I love mop-up operations, and retreats. Wars across prairies, in streets, in trenches, in grasslands, in frozen tundras, through deserts, on the sea, in the air, I love every act of war that can occur upon this earth. I love blasting the enemy to smithereens with artillery salvos that thunder across the lines of battle. My heart leaps with joy whenever a soldier is tossed high into the air and cut to pieces by well placed sniper rounds. And there is nothing like a tank operator using a Tiger 88 to destroy enemy tanks. And the feeling that comes when a soldier runs screaming from his blazing tank only to be mowed down by heavy machine gun fire, is such an exquisite feeling. Like when ranks of infantry brandish their bayonets rushing into the enemy line. It moves me deep within my heart to watch a fresh recruit stabbing over and over into the bloated chest of a long-dead enemy. The sight of deserters being strung up from a street lamp is an irresistible pleasure. And there is nothing more arousing, than the sounds made by prisoners of war dropping like flies, screaming in agony as they're mowed down by ear piercing schmeissers! When a band of pitiful resistance fighters makes their final stand with nothing but small arms, only to have their city smashed to atoms block by block by 4.8 ton bombshells, I'm in ecstasy. I love it when my forces are ravaged by a Russian armored division. It's so sad to see towns and villages that were supposed to be defended at all costs, being laid to waste, their women and children being raped, and killed. I love to be squashed under the heel of the British and American war machines. The humiliation, as my men crawl around like vermin, ducking the jagdbombers flying overhead. Gentlemen... All I ask for is war, a war so grand as to make Hell itself tremble. Gentlemen, I ask you as fellow brothers in arms, what is it that you really want? Do you wish for further war as I do? Do you wish for a merciless, bloody war? A war whose fury is built with iron, and lightning, and fire? Do you ask for war to sweep in like a tempest, leaving not even ravens to scavenge, from this Earth!? Very well. Then krieg is what you shall have. We are a clenched fist, ready to strike down all who oppose us, with our might. But... After enduring over half a century wallowing in the darkness, for us, a simple "ordinary" war will no longer be sufficient. We need a MASSIVE war! A war beyond any other that man's history has ever known! We are but a single battalion... The remnants of a defeated army numbering less than a thousand strong. However, I believe that each of you old warriors is equal to a thousand of their sickly soft children! We represent a force that could easily defeat an army of a million and one men! It is time for them to awake the ones who sent us screaming into oblivion, and who now lie sleeping. Let's drag them out of bed by the hair, and remind them of what we are! We will remind them of what it feels like to live in fear. We will remind them of the sound our jackboots make against their throats. We will remind them, that there are more things between Heaven and Hell than are dreamt of in their philosophy. Our Kampfgruppe of one thousand vampires is going to burn this world down to ash. Yes, my friends! Soon, Europe's charred remains will illuminate the night sky! I have brought you all back just as I promised I would. Back to our favorite battlefield. Back to our beloved war! At last the sea lion has crossed the ocean and is heading up the hill. Attention all soldiers of the Millennium Battalion this is a message from your commander… friends, let’s bring them hell."
Next Stop, GryphusFllies and gentlecolts. I am pkeased to announce to you that we will be hitting the shores of Gryphus in ten minutes. The weather forecast? Applejack: And how was it there in Gryphus. I never been there nor know anyone who'd done so, 'cept you, Pryde." Pryde: Well for starters- can you lend a help here?" Applejack helps Pyde lift the debris off the ground. Pryde: Weather's not great. The rain in the foothills would turn to snow in the mountains. The soil in most of Gryphus was hard. It was heavy clay that turned rock hard when dry but slick as ice after rain and snow. The road had no guardrails, so I really felt sorry for the earth and unicorns since they can't fly and were prone to falling off the edges, plummeting to their deaths over hundreds of feet. But don't get me started on the weather shifts, the weather can change from 14 degrees in one hour, then to -20 degrees in the next hour. Beautiful country, kid. Absolutely beautiful but also a wretched place to live." Applejack would look up to Pryde in intervals while doing the heavy lifting.
InaugurationShe had heard of him before in the news but she never was too interested in reading news or current events. But now with her new role and new life, she'd have to. All she really knew of his background was that he was born on the east coast, moving from Manehatten to Fillydelphia to Baltimare. He apparently had traces of Trottingham blood in him since his mother was from that dominion, which meant he might possibly be a spotted pony. A rare occurence in Equestria, or at least, frim the cities and areas she's visited. "He beat his own father," Twilight said in an attempt to show to her peers that she did have at least some knowledge of what was going on. "Senator Rhubarb." "It was a close victory for that young colt," Celestia said in astonishment. "In the past, it's generally been sweeping victories for one of them and it's never been this close. To think a pony slightly older than you get elected by winning parliamentary votes and popular vote must've been preposterous back then." "That may explain why he's so popular with the fillies." Luna said grimly, Celestia held in her chuckle even though it wasn't a joke to Luna. ""I don't like him." "Yu don't have to like him, Luna. You and him may have gotten off a bad start but you two more or less share the same beliefs." "It's how he . He doesn't seem to respect his opposition or anypony that dares question him." "I'm sure he was stressed and tense when you met him. He is trying to become chancellor of Equestria. If he is as bad as you claim, he'll have to comprimise and get along with the other politicians." "That's if he doesn't order them to resign." "But he can't order us to resign." Celestia reminded. Luna already knew this but she couldn't help but remain unenthused. Still waitng for his arrival, Twilight, curious, asked away. "So what can he do as Chancellor?" Celestia scanned the crowd to see if the Chancellor's arrival was coming soon but it seemed not, so Celestia made room to answer her student. "As Chancellor, he's responsible for managing and leading the central government. Make sure laws are passed, what role our government has in things like our daiky lives, and "And what does that make of us?" "In the past, the Chancellor would . We princesses and royal family members would . "Have we ever come into conflict with the chancellors?" "Generally no. We aren't usually seen among them and we both tend to leave each other alone. Rhubarb use to never interact with us. I guess Luna actually "Who were his supporters?" Celestia was quick to answer. "He got a starting place with the cities on the eastcoast, the crowded industrial hubs. He got a lot of cheers when it came to distributing wealth. He then got popular with Cloudsdale and other cities by promising more better government. But in short, he really got popular thanks to his motto: "One for all and all for one." " "And enemies?" "He has some opponents. Mainly from . But he had strong support in the east and Cloudsdale "?" "Us, Twilight." Luna briefly explained, holding in her sigh. "Looks like he's here." Celestia announced, seeing a column of troopers coming around the corner, anticipated by the roaring cheers from the crowd. "Be on your best behavior, girls." Celestia said warmly as the three broke contact and then looked ahead. Twilight, looking at the still unimpressed Luna decided to raise her spirit. She whispered, "Maybe you can teach me how to handle politicians like him, Luna." Luna's frown then turned into a half smile, something Twilight had learnt that meant she was impressed. "The corporate think they can own you like a product. I was elected because . One for all and all for one."
Dad"Rainbow!" She let the words pass right through her. He wrapped his arm around her, but she gently pressed her hoof against his chest, "Dad!" she snapped, "The flying hay were you doing out there!" He was about to speak before she cut him, "You could hav "Look, Dash. I volunteered to serve on this fleet because it's my duty to protect Equestria. "You're not a fighter, dad," Rainbow Dash said bitterly. "All you ever did was put out fires. I know firsthand about Griffons and just tossing water on them won't cut it." "I saved lives, Dash." Her dad emphasized, keeping his calm tone. "And what if you died, Dad?" Her words cut him like a blade. He didn't feel like this since many years ago when the incident happened. If he failed to save everyone back then, what prevented him from perhaps saving his ow- Attention! Attention! All senior officers, please report to command station. Junior officers, as well. Repeat, all senior and junior officers, please report to the command station. "Good luck." He shouldn't
Times Ahead"You risked my life for your war, Red!" Applejack's grip around her neck began to tighten. "Do you honestly think you would have went there had I told you the truth?" She asked, sounding not one bit intimidated but amused at Applejack's attempt. "That there was some unjust war occurring to the north? Colts, mares, and fillies dying, their homes burnt and left in ruins, while the rest of Equestria sits by and does nothing
