Fallout Equestria: Memories of Lyraby MoowellChaptersBefore the WarProject PonificationTalonsVengeanceRescueThe Last DayBefore the WarWhat the hell? Everything's so... bright. Colorful. And it smells amazing here. I'm reading about a creature called 'Human' from a book as thick as my hoof. WAH!! My hoof! My leg! I'm... colorful! A bright blue-green type colorful. Mother of Celestia, I hope I’m dreaming. And even if I’m dreaming, this is the weirdest dream I've ever had. “Welcome to Lyra and Bon Bon's Confectionery! How may I-- Applejack!” I said, rushing to greet the orange mare. Well, since I can't seem to control myself, may as well let the dream take me where it will. "It's been ages since I've seen you in Ponyville!” “Good mornin’, Lyra. Yea, I’ve been busy. How are you an' Bon Bon doin'?” Applejack said, releasing me from a hug. Hold on... I know she can't be that much shorter than me. Am I really only on two hooves? “We're doing very well! She's in the back cooking up some muffins for Derpy. Would you like something? My treat for such a wonderful surprise visit!” I guided Applejack to the counter of sweets, somehow remaining on two hooves like it was the most natural thing in the world. “Well, alright. I am a bit hungry.” I levitated a couple-- Oh my. I haven't felt this sense in a very, very long time... This feeling... I'm a unicorn again. The sensation of magic flowing through my horn overwhelmed me, and I mentally wept. My dream body didn't join me though, as it didn't seem to care what I was thinking. “How do you like it?” Lyra asked, watching in expectation. “It's not bad. What exactly is it?” asked Applejack, chewing the last of the candy. “It's a taffy. I hope you liked it! Can you guess the ingredients?” “I do like it. As for ingredients, I can taste my own apples anywhere, but this has somethin' else in it. What's the secret?” “Carrots.” “You mixed MY fruit with HER vegetables?!” Applejack cried, more shocked than angry. “Where else am I supposed to get Bon Bon's ingredients? Besides, I'd say the result was pretty good.” From the look on her face, she couldn't help but agree. “Oh, it's Applejack!” A pale yellow earth pony with a blue and pink mane walked out from the back, carrying a tray of muffins. “I just finished a batch of muffins for Ditzy Doo. Would you like one?” “Are you kiddin’, Bon Bon? If that mare found out I had one of her muffins, no amount of twitchy-tails would save me!” We all laughed. “Too true,” Lyra replied. “Anyways, as much as I would like to believe you’re here for the confections, I can’t imagine a busy mare like yourself isn’t working.” Applejack nodded. “Why don’t you sit down and tell us about it?” “Hey, even ponies like me need a break every now and then. Besides, there’ve been some weird things goin’ on with the others.” We all walked over to a table and sat together. “Like what?” asked Bon Bon. “Pinkie’s sense has been telling her that something big is going to happen soon, but she doesn’t know what it could mean. She’s never felt anything like it before.” “It’s probably just Pinkie being Pinkie. You know how she gets,” Lyra mused. I didn’t actually know, but the others seemed to understand. “I’d think the same thing, but Zecora’s been actin’ strange too. Not only them, but even Twilight is in half a frenzy. Normally she’s not the superstitious type, but somethin’ in the stars is tellin’ her about some impending calamity.” Applejack shook her head. “I know this sounds crazy, but she did know about Nightmare Moon’s return. What if this is more than hocus pocus?” “All three of them? I wonder what’s going on.” *CRASH! badum crash* The four of us landed in a heap next to the counter. Actually, one pony, a grey Pegasus mare with blonde hair and wonky eyes, was sitting on the rest of us and chewing on something. “Hello Ditzy! Do you like the muffins I baked you?” the voice of Bon Bon said from beneath me. My heart leapt when the grey mare looked down and beamed us with such a grin of purest joy that even after being pummeled and sat on, I couldn’t help but feel glad for her. “Would you mind getting off so we can get up, please?” “I’d better get goin’,” said Applejack after we climbed to our hooves and dusted each other off. “My schedule is gettin’ hectic with Zap Apple Season comin’ up.” “If you need any help with this problem, let me know. I’ll be glad to offer my services,” Lyra said. “I’m not sure how sweets would help, but thanks.” Applejack waved goodbye as she trotted down the street. Bon Bon and Lyra walked back inside. “Lyra... Do you think their problems are related to your research?” she asked, concerned. “I hope not, but it’s possible. Historically there have been many disputes over economic treaties like the new coal-gem agreement, even during the time of humans. Sometimes even leading to all out war.” “Oh dear. That would be horrible!” Bon Bon exclaimed, a little frightened by the idea. “What’s war?” Lyra glanced over at the crumb-covered Pegasus and frowned. “If it’s anything like history has shown, it’s something bad, Ditzy. Something I hope we never see in Equestria.” Project Ponification“It is finished. Hold out your hoof,” said a familiar voice. My eyes were shut, foreleg outstretched. A small object was placed in my hoof. I lifted the object to my mouth and bit slowly, savoring each mouth-watering bite. The flavor was like an explosion of flavor and texture, like taking Juniper’s specialty and turning it into a candy. “Do you like it?” “Bon Bon...” I opened my eyes slowly to see the yellow mare from last time, eyes expectant. “This is by far, the best apple-carrot taffy you have ever made. I think you’ve finally perfected the recipe.” “I’m glad. I hope Applejack will like them just as much as you do, love.” “I’m sure she will. After all, last time she--” *CRASH thud crash!* “Oh, hello Derpy.” “Mail for Lyra Heartstrings!” My host climbed back to her hooves and accepted the letter. “Thank you.” Derpy saluted then flew out through the wall. Yes, the wall. I imagine it couldn’t have been very comfortable. “Well, go on. Open it.” I did so and read silently: “Dear Lyra, I know we had made plans to meet up today so I could try Bon Bon’s candy, but I won’t be able to make it. Tension with the Zebras is mounting, and I’ve just been asked to act as an intermediary along with Twilight, Rainbow Dash and the others for this next set of meetings. I’m sorry to disappoint you. Maybe when this all blows over, ok? Until next time, Applejack P.S.: Celestia says ‘Ponify me.’ I don’t get it, since she’s already a pony. Do you know what that’s supposed to mean?” “It’s actually happening...” I muttered. “What’s going on, Lyra?” asked a curious Bon Bon. “Talks are going on between Equestria and the Zebra Nation about the treaty. Talks that I don’t think are going to end well.” I set the note down on the countertop and began to remove items from the display case. “Are you suggesting that we’re going to go to war?” “Not suggesting. Predicting.” “You’re not saying that because of human mythology, are you?” “As soon as we made that stupid treaty, history was set into motion, and history always repeats itself. Even across mythology.” “Oh, Lyra! Don’t you have any hope for Ponykind anymore? You’ve become so wrapped up in your books and stories that you’ve lost sight of the goodness in front of your face. We aren’t humans! We might make it through this without bloodshed!” I paused my work and looked sternly at Bon Bon. “Humans were a lot like us. They may not have had magic or flight, or even four hooves, but they had governments and diplomacy. They rarely resorted to military force until negotiations had broken down, just like what’s happening here. The longer this goes on, the more likely war will start.” “I refuse to believe ponies and zebras can’t work something out. Why can’t we just trade the materials like the agreement outlines?” “Because both sides want the better end of the deal. Neither side wants an even split like the agreement dictates. From the moment of its birth, it was destined by history to fail.” I resumed my task. “And what if you’re right? What if Equestria and the Zebra Nation end up fighting? Don’t they know that we have magic on our side as well as ponies capable of flight? They can’t win, so why not just let the talks go through?” “It’s not that simple, Bon Bon. The zebras have potions and talismans, which can be much more effective than spells. On top of that, they’re usable by any zebra, not just a single spellcaster. We don’t have anything like that. No, it may be the zebras who win.” “Then what are we going to do, Lyra? If there really is no way to avoid a war, and the zebras have the advantage, what can we do?” My host hesitated. “Bon Bon, I have a confession to make. I’ve been keeping something secret from everypony. A big secret, even from you.” “What sort of secret?” she asked, shocked. “One of the human leaders once said ‘Speak softly and carry a big stick’. What that means is start with negotiation, but always be ready and able to beat your enemy senseless if you have to.” “I don’t understand. How is your secret related?” “It’s a little ironic, really. I’ve spent much of my later life trying to be more like a human, but now I’ve made something to be more suited to a pony. Ever since the coal-gem agreement was created, I’ve been working on a project called ‘Project Ponification’. It’s taken a lot of research, development, and time, but I've finally finished it. This will be Equestria’s ‘Big Stick’.” “What project?” “This project.” My host pressed a hidden button, opening a compartment which held an object so familiar to me, yet so foreign to its surroundings that my heart leapt in shock. “Bon Bon, this is what the ancient humans would call a ‘Rifle’.” Talons“More and more ponies are dying everyday! Why won’t you accept my research?!” I recognized my voice as Lyra’s. In front of me stood a set of ponies wearing white lab coats. “Because your ‘research’ isn’t science, it’s fantasy! Battle armor is far too advanced for anypony to legitimately create, let alone mass produce.” “It’s not a waste of time, and I can prove it! I just need the funding. And even if you don’t look at my designs for armor, you should at least look at--” “Lyra, stop wasting our time with myths and legends, and go back to making sweets with your mare friend. We are very busy constructing things that will help us in this war, and we don’t have time to waste on fairy tales.” The scientists walked out, leaving Lyra standing there alone. She stormed from the building to find Bon Bon waiting outside. “It didn’t go well, did it?” “They wrote me off as a quack!” Lyra raged. “Don’t they know who it was who gave them the guns they’re perfecting right now?” “No, they don't. You remained anonymous, remember? You said it would be better for us if they didn’t know because it would split us apart. Do you regret it?” Bon Bon asked sadly. “No, I don’t regret that choice, and I’m sorry I made you upset. I just wish they would at least look at the designs. Now that the Zebras have reverse engineered guns, we need a better form of armor than simple barding, but those ponies in Ironclad can’t see past their snooty upturned noses. Not even Ironshod would spare a thought toward these defensive measures.” “Don’t worry about it, Lyra. You’ve already done so much to help the war effort. Let the scientists do their jobs, ok?” “I...” Lyra looked into Bon Bon’s pleading eyes for a long moment; then her body relaxed. “You’re right. I've worked with MWT and Stable-Tec. I’ve built weapons and created a communications array. Equestria doesn’t need me anymore. Let’s go home.” “There’s the Lyra I know and love. When we get home, I’ll make you some blueberry pastries.” We passed through a building to a railway and waited. Soon, there was the sound of metal against metal and a shrill, piercing whistle. I looked to the side and saw a large structure with many chambers screeching to a halt. If this is a railway, then is that a train? “All aboard! Next stop Ponyville!” cried a pony clad in blue. We boarded the train. It was very well kept inside, having carpeted floors and painted walls. The windows were large enough to allow multiple ponies to watch the scenery as it passed by and had sliding drapes to block the view, if one so desired. I, however, couldn’t imagine anypony wanting to do such a thing. Lyra must have held Bon Bon’s head in her lap (yes, a lap. I was sitting in a peculiar position that allowed for such a thing) for hours as the world flowed by. The outside world was a beautiful blur of mountains and forests. Of rivers and lakes untainted by radiation or foul creatures. Of great cities in the distance as we looked over a vast cliff. Greens and browns and flowers of every color washed my eyes clean of the wasteland as the sun set in golden hue surrounded by a red sky... I never wanted to leave this place. I wanted to hold Bon Bon forever and watch the world go by, but all too soon the train stopped. “Wake up, Bon Bon. We’re here.” Bon Bon picked up her head and looked out the window, as if to confirm Lyra's statement with her groggy eyes. Lyra helped her up and stabilized her on her hooves before walking outside. Come to think of it, this was the first time I’ve ever been outside. Both times I’ve been with Lyra, I’ve been inside the sweets shop. The air smelled clean and fresh, as only something the wasteland hadn’t touched could. It was dark before we arrived back at the shop. We went inside and turned on the lights. The shop was gutted. “Oh, Lyra...” My host immediately turned the lights off, sparing Bon Bon of the sight. “Go to the Cakes’ house. You shouldn’t see this.” She could only stand in shock. Lyra stood right in front of Bon Bon and placed her hooves on her friends shoulder, looking straight into her eyes. “Bon Bon, please. Go now, and wait for me.” Obediently, Bon Bon walked away in silence, unable to react otherwise. Lyra went inside. The place was torn apart. Pieces of the display case were in multiple sections of the room. The tables were either overturned or snapped, and produce was everywhere. The kitchen didn’t fare much better, as pots and pans and assorted smaller utensils covered the floor. Bits and pieces of wall were strewn all over the place in both areas. Lyra pulled a small device out of my pouch and-- hey, that’s a PipBuck! The device whirred to life as it slid over her leg. She switched the menu to a radar, revealing a few red dots still in the area. She withdrew a scoped, black pistol from my pouch. The grip was ivory by the looks of it, and it had three little apples carved into it. “Sorry, Applejack. I know you commissioned this one, but I’m gonna have to use it first.” Lyra glanced at the dots again, then made her way toward the stairwell at the back of the kitchen. Slowly, quietly, she climbed the steps. I could hear whispering coming from above me. “Damn it all to hell!” swore a raspy voice. I sidled against the wall. “You said this was the right place, but we’ve searched everywhere and still nothing! No experiments, no prototypes, not even a research paper. Just some fucking recipes for candy and muffins!” “All her shipments come here. She spends most of her time in this shop. This is the place, or I’m a petty thief.” Lyra poked her head just above the entryway, confirming the three griffons weren’t looking in her direction. Their weapons were leaning against the wall a short distance away. “Then you’re a petty thief. There’s nothing here, boss,” said the third. “May I ask what’s going on here?” Lyra stood at the top of the stairs, pointing the gun directly at the leader. “Fuck! She wasn’t supposed to be back for another hour!” The leader glanced toward his cache of firearms. “Ah-ah-ah. I wouldn’t move for your guns, if I were you,” my host warned. “You wouldn’t make it two steps before--” One bolted. Suddenly the world around me seemed to slow to less than a crawl as a strange interface came into my view. The runner’s head glowed: 95%. *BOOOOOOOM!!!* I watched as the bullet flew powerfully through his skull, blasting the wall behind him with a red-ish grey paste. The world returned to normal, and the rest of the his body crashed to the floor. “I tried to warn you.” The remaining intruders exchanged a glance. “Alright, you got us.” “Who are you?” “We’re the Talons.” “Mercenaries? Who hired you?” “Can’t tell you that, Lyra. That would compromise my contract.” “Your contract has already been compromised. Your mission failed as soon as I found Bon Bon’s life in ruins. Either tell me, or forfeit your other subordinate.” “Kill me then! I’ll never make the boss break his code!” I fired, leaving another splash of paste on the wall. “BOSS!” “Now your boss can’t break his code. Tell me who sent you, or join your friends.” Lyra cocked the pistol. I never knew she was this brutal... “Please, don’t kill me!” the griffon pleaded. “You wrecked my home, looking for something to steal from me. You aren’t just petty criminals, since you planned for the moment you knew I’d be gone. You’re a mercenary, fulfilling a job that is harmful to me and my way of life.” The last remaining enemy’s eyes grew wider by the second, his feathers sticking to his head from the sweat as I approached him slowly. “I’m sorry! Please have mercy!” “Not only that, but you brought war to Ponyville, a haven of peace. You destroyed the culmination of my love’s work. You raped her innocence of the outside by bringing your evil here.” I could feel Lyra’s body, which up until now had been eerily calm, burn in her growing rage. “Tell me why, or I’m going to fucking destroy you!!” “We were hired by a group called the O.I.A.! We were told to bring anything involving technology and research created by Lyra Heartstrings!” “What else?!” I flared, my gun wavering in my magical grip. “Lyra, what are you doing?!” I looked behind me to the stairs. The voice belonged to Bon Bon. “Bon Bon! Why aren’t you--” “Look out!” *BOOOM!! BOOOM!!* I mentally screamed in agony as the shotgun pellets tore through Lyra's flesh and flung our body through the air. She crashed to the ground in an ungraceful heap. "LYRA!!" “You must be the one that corpse was talking about.” I could barely make out the griffon walking toward Bon Bon. “L-leave.. B-Bon Bon... Run...” “Don’t move, or I’ll kill Lyra right now!” To my dismay, Bon Bon stayed. The griffon turned back toward me, never pointing his gun away. “You’re a tough little bitch. Tell you what we’re gonna do. I’m gonna foalnap your lover here, and you’re gonna bring every last scrap of research with you to Riverside. If you don’t, I’ll assume you died and have no reason to keep her anymore, savvy?” The intruder sprinkled my non-existent limbs with a health potion, sealing the wounds. “Can’t have you dying before my bosses get what they want. You’ve got one week. You! Downstairs and out the back.” The two of them disappeared from my sight, then Lyra’s eyes closed. VengeanceWhen they reopened, it was daylight. Lyra crawled to the stairs and slowly thumped her way down to the kitchen and to the island in the center, kicking away debris as she went. She reached out and touched the corner, depressing a hidden switch. “It’s so real to me: Anthropology.” *click tick!* The corner opened, allowing the island to open at the side. Inside was a large metal contraption that honestly made no sense to me. “I don’t have to horse around now. I can stand on two legs.” The robot whirred to life. “Good morning, Mrs. Heartstrings. How may I be of assistance today?” it asked. “I would trade my magic powers for a set of new legs.” “Oh dear. May I take a look at the extent of the damage?” “Grab your camera. Come on, zoom in.” “You look absolutely horrible. Would you like a full reconstruction, or merely a repair?" “‘Cause your favorite mare’s a human. Me!” “If you insist. Are you sure you want the full reconstruction?” “That’s who I’ll be.” “Acknowledged. Full reconstruction selected. Please provide password.” “Anthropology.” “Password accepted. There are some appendages in the way, so I’ll have to remove them. This may sting a little.” The high-pitched grind of a buzzsaw pierced my ears as a pair of metallic claws gripped just below where my legs connected to my torso. Oh shit! No! No no no no no no no no no no no BAD! Bad memory! Bad saw! Go awAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!! I watched in horror as the robot slowly tore through her limbs. Lyra seemed prepared for this, however, as not even a squeak passed through her throat. She ground her teeth together, but the griffon was right. She is very tough. That doesn’t mean I was glad to be going through it with her. The saw carved a neat curve out of my body, leaving a smooth if bloody cavity. The robot sprayed a healing mist over the area which used to be my left foreleg, sealing it. “You’re doing wonderfully, Mrs. Heartstrings. Just need to remove one more appendage and smooth out a couple rough patches, then the reconstruction may begin.” I determined to be as tough as Lyra this time around, but it was incredibly difficult. Her eyes closed, which made it easier, but the squeal which ground into the bones of her hindleg still caused me to cry out. Again, the spray of healing potion soothed the searing flame that burned in her flank. The saw died down, and Lyra opened her eyes. I saw both of her left legs lying in bloody heaps next to her. If I could’ve made this body puke, I would have. *schick* Pain flared through her right side, this time from the scalpels that dug through the nubs of her right legs. Round and round they went until the stumps were removed, exposing my insides to the open air once again. The robot pulled a magnet from somewhere and applied it to the bloody area, drawing out the shotgun pellets that had been embedded inside. Finally, the procedure was over, and Lyra was healed for a third time. “Very good, Mrs. Heartstrings! I am highly impressed by your fortitude. The removal process is complete. Commencing prosthetic reconstruction. Attaching nerve reception plate.” A large metal plate contoured to Lyra's body and adhered to her belly, covering her entire underside and around the flank. “Nerve reception plate in place. Please apply magic to seal the bond.” Her horn glowed a weak blue, touching the edges of the new attachment with her magic. “Magic applied. Attaching prosthetic limbs.” Four oddly shaped chunks of metal issued from beneath the island. Those didn’t look anything like pony legs! The limbs attached to receptacles which held them in place and interwove them into the nerve system. “Arms and legs attached. Test of new features recommended.” Lyra rose to her hindhooves and tested the functionality of the new parts. She held her forehooves-- No, these are hands! Fingers and all! The fingers flexed and balled into fists, then straightened out again. She swung her arms forward and backward, up and down, in and out, all the while maintaining her balance incredibly well. I suppose that happens when you practice standing on two hooves all the time. She then looked down at her hoo-- feet. Toes and all. Not claws like a hellhound’s, but actual toes. She wiggled them individually, then rotated her feet, flexed her legs, and even tested balance on a single foot. Surprisingly, it worked! Those new toes really help out when standing, compensating for slight imbalances. “Excellent tests, Mrs. Heartstrings! You have full functionality, and have adapted to your new limbs extremely well. Is there anything else I can do for you?” “Bon Bon, I’m coming for you. Just one more thing I need to grab.” Lyra turned and faced her robot. “Babies, children, teens and elders, all alike have clothes to wear.” I inwardly sighed. In my opinion, Lyra's sing-songing was quickly getting old. “Ah, yes! It is stored here!” The metal creature opened itself, revealing a terrifying suit of armor designed specifically to match Lyra’s new body. It was black from horn to boot with the eyes tinted a deep crimson, made of a tough metal and leather at the joints. Its slanted eyes exuded a look of menace. Just looking at the beast sent chills through my mental spine. “Would you like to wear it now?” “It’s so real to me: Anthropology.” “Very well. Here you are.” Lyra put on the the suit. The leg guards were fastened in place around her mechanical lower half, jointed at the knees and hips for mobility. They contained slots for pistols at the hip, as well as small pouches lining the waist. Next, the torso armor was buckled around her body; essentially a pair of thick slabs of metal which contoured to the curves of her flank, leaving gaps around the limbs. A band of leather connected to a metal belt attached to the leg guards, providing for some protection of her waist without sacrificing movement. On the back were several large holsters, filled by weapons that I couldn’t quite identify. On her feet, she fastened a pair of thick, armored boots, jointed at the top of the foot to allow free movement. On the underside, a set of wheels lay hidden in the sole. A set of enormous bracers reaching from the shoulders down to her hands were attached to the chestplate, again jointed at the shoulders and knees for mobility. On the tops of the arms were two scabbards. Lyra picked up the sharpest of Bon Bon’s kitchen knives and placed them inside, leaving only the tips of the handles showing. She brushed a small switch on the sides of the scabbards. There was a click, and the two knives jettisoned directly into her hands. Satisfied, she placed the knives back inside. Once the ensemble was complete, she picked up her helmet. The place for her eyes was covered by a dark visor, but it immediately sprang to life once she put it on. The world looked much like it had when Lyra had shot the griffon that tried to grab a gun, only not in slow motion. In many ways, it reminded me of a PipBuck. Several images appeared before my eyes, indicating my limbs had a sufficient supply of gems. What that meant, only Lyra knows. Talismans all functioning correctly. Weight negation, ammunition restoration, condition restoration... Damn, Lyra! What the hell was this monstrosity? “You look ready to battle the world, Mrs. Heartstrings.” “Not the world,” said a dark, electronic voice. Was that really the ancient mare I had grown to respect? “Just those responsible for stealing Bon Bon. Thank you for everything. You can go back to sleep, now.” “As you wish. Until we meet again, Mrs. Heartstrings.” The robot returned to the space underneath the island. “Mark Waypoint: Riverside. Primary Objective: Rescue Bon Bon.” A small arrow appeared on the compass at the base of the interface. “You wanted my research? You’re about to get a full blown demonstration. Secondary Objective: Destroy the Talons.” Author's Note Inspiration for the interaction with the robot - Anthropology Rescue“Applejack, Silver Stripe, welcome to Riverside.” A sickly yellow stallion and a sad little unicorn clad in black greeted us as we approached. Applejack looked to the right and saw a striped pony walking with me. That must be Silver Stripe, which means I must be Applejack. “Thank you, Goldenblood.” Yep, I’m definitely Applejack. “Now, why’d you decide to hold this meetin’ of the minds all the way out here?” “I felt a change of pace would be good for us all. Someplace away from all the troubles where we can all think clearly.” Goldenblood led us to the the largest building in the city. “Riverside City Hall is the perfect place. Quiet and easily defensible.” “You know, it’s not going to be easy to think with all these mercenaries around.” When we entered, there was a multitude of griffons. The lead griffon approached us, making me wary. My last memory of them wasn't exactly sunshine and rainbows. “I have 50 of my best Talons in case of any foul play, Goldenblood. I don’t think anyone is going to get through.” “Very good. Keep watching for anything out of the ordinary,” Goldenblood ordered. “Are you expecting something to happen? Surely you considered the safety of this place before choosing it,” commented Silver Stripe. “Shortly before you arrived, I received word of a possible compromise in our position. You were already en route, so I was unable to warn you and prevent your coming. These griffons were nearby, so I hired them as a precautionary measure just in case something were to happen.” “Bogey approaching from the north!” cried one of the lookouts. The entire mercenary group went on alert. Applejack looked at Goldenblood warily. “My intelligence network is rarely wrong, Ms. Applejack.” Goldenblood excused himself to oversee the events. “What’s the situation, flock leader?” “Something’s coming, but I can’t tell what it is. It’s built like a diamond dog and stands upright, but it has a pony head. It's metallic so it may be a robot. If it is, it’s more advanced than any robot I’ve ever seen. I just don’t know what to make of it.” “Let me see.” Goldenblood took the binoculars from the sentry and peered into the distance at the speck. “Ah, I see. That may be the nature of the information I received. Don’t attack it unless it becomes hostile. We don’t know what it’s capable of.” “Yes sir. Talons, into formation targeting that speck, but hold your fire!” The squad took their posts in case of battle and waited. Goldenblood returned to us. “Applejack, Silver Stripe, I recommend getting out of the area. The threat my intelligence spoke of is on its way here, and it is probably hostile.” “I’ve never run from danger in this war, and I don’t plan on starting now,” my host said, firm in her stance. “Besides, I’d like to see this new threat that you think your mercs can’t handle.” “The Talons are extremely capable, but that’s what I’m afraid of. We may get caught in the crossfire if we remain here, and you have your position to think about,” Goldenblood warned. Applejack sighed. “Very well. Let’s get to higher ground, then.” “I will stay behind and find a vantage point,” said the up until now quiet pony who accompanied Goldenblood. Strangely, she seemed saddened by the task she placed upon herself. Vantage point, huh? A sniper? “Very good, Psalm. We may need you if it comes to battle.” The three of us climbed the stairways of city hall until we reached the top floor. Applejack approached the window and opened it to view the scene. "Applejack, that may not be wise." “If it’s a robot like your griffon thinks, I want to see the tech that our enemy has created. You may be interested too, Silver Stripe, considering you’re up and coming in the cybernetics field.” “If you insist.” She stepped up beside Applejack and peered out the window, searching for the mysterious enemy. “Ah, there it is, Applejack. Over there.” Applejack turned in the direction pointed until I saw the intruder. It was difficult to see without binoculars, but I spotted it where Silver Stripe indicated. “That’s quite the creature. I wonder what’s inside that bit of machinery. Do you recognize it, Silver?” “You mean it isn’t yours? I don’t know anypony with the technical expertise to make something like that outside the MWT or the Iron Co’s. It must have taken a great deal of time and funding to create. It doesn’t seem to be of Zebra make, though. They usually make larger, more destructive machines than that.” “Do you think there’s somepony in Equestria who has that caliber of skill that we don’t already know about?” “Halt,” commanded the squad leader when the suit neared the 50 yard mark. “This area is restricted.” “Are you the Talons?” asked a dark, electronic voice. The same voice that... Oh No! This is Riverside, isn't it? The place where that griffon said he was bringing-- “I’m the leader of this branch of the Talons. Who are you?” The suit of armor pulled a minigun off its back. “I’m the one you tried to steal from. The one whose lover you foalnapped. And for that, I am your worst nightmare!” Lyra, NO! I screamed to no effect as her gun blazed, forcing the Talons to quickly duck behind their cover and prepare to counter-attack. “It’s hostile now, Goldenblood. We’re going to take it down!” shouted the leader toward us. I watched in horror as the squad of griffons moved as a unit against the pony who had gained so much of my respect. Bullets launched toward her as a firestorm, tearing through the air and striking the armor. No, hold on... The bullets were stopping just in front of the suit. “What the hell is going on, Chief?! Our gunfire is completely ineffective!” cried one of the mercs. I looked closely at the suit. Was its horn glowing? “You’re doomed, Talons! I know your guns better than you do. I know where each and every one of you are hiding. My technology is better than yours. When you raided my home, you made the worst possible enemy you could’ve made in this war.” “That’s a lot of hot air for a robot. You haven’t hit one of us yet, have you? Stop gloating and die!” A volley of grenades flew toward Lyra and exploded all around her, a few falling within a few feet of her, kicking up a large amount of dirt and dust. Several moments passed in silence. “Hah! Like I said, nothing but a bunch of hot air.” The dust slowly cleared. The silhouette of a figure standing upright began to form an outline through the cloud, a red glow emanating from the top of the shadow. The shadow’s arm moved into its body, then returned with a large extension. “Do you like explosions that much?” *ssssSSSSHHHHHHHHH BOOOOOOOOM!!!* Three griffons flew without the use of their wings. “You gave me so many. You must really like giving them away, don’t you Talons?” *ssssSSSSHHHHHHHHH BOOOOOOOOM!!!* Four others joined their comrades in spirit as their bodies were flayed by concussions and flechettes. “Why don’t you save a few for yourself?!” The rest scattered, avoiding the missile fire as it rained down from Lyra’s massive gun. “Phew, look at the power in that piece of machinery!” exclaimed Applejack. “It said they raided her home, so there’s probably a pony inside that thing. If that’s the case, then this is the most advanced set of armor I’ve ever seen. I didn’t think something like that was possible.” She looked closely at Goldenblood. “Did you know this was coming?” “I had my suspicions. I also believe I know who is controlling it.” Both Silver Stripe and Applejack regarded him in shock. “Do either of you know of an engineer named Lyra Heartstrings?” “Of course I know her! She’s one of the most respected ponies in Ponyville, and a good friend of mine.” “You may not be aware of this, but she has been trying to sell the idea of battle armor to several major weapons companies, including your own Ministry. Up until now, nopony has taken her ideas seriously.” “What are you trying to say, Goldenblood? That she’s mad nopony will buy her work?” “It is possible that she is trying to make a point about her armor, and I believe she’s made a very clear point. It is extremely effective in the field of battle.” I turned my head back toward the battle. The Talons were being completely decimated, powerless to stop Lyra’s assault. By now, she had discarded her missile launcher in favor of a black pistol. The mercenaries were darting around in the skies, firing from above as she targetted them from the ground. One by one, the Talons fell from the air, virtually helpless against her PipBuck enhanced aim. *krrzzt* “Should I take the shot?” asked a voice coming from Goldenblood’s radio. “Are you crazy?! That’s Lyra we’re talking about!” “That is a possibility, yes. However, all we know is that an unidentified robot or suit of armor is currently attacking a meeting of the strongest technological powerhouses in Equestria. What if it isn’t Lyra? What if this is some other power sent to cut our military might at its head?” “But it doesn’t seem to be interested in us at all. Just the Talons.” “Not anymore, it seems.” Goldenblood pointed to Lyra. She and the lead griffon were engaged in a terrifyingly beautiful dance of blades: the griffon’s armored claws against the armor’s thin twin blades. Stroke after stroke, swipe after swipe, the glint of the sun shone off the edged metals, twinkling like stars. The flashes blazed in my eyes, threatening to enchant my very soul. And then, with a decisive stroke, the pony skewered the griffon. He swore and reeled, but after a brief moment, fell to the earth with a thud. Lyra turned her glowing gaze directly toward us. “It has spotted us.” All around the armored pony lay strewn the bodies of griffons, the last of the Talon mercenaries dead at her feet. “Applejack! Are you the one responsible?!” “Lyra! Is that really you?” “What did you do with--” *CRACK~~~~!!* Lyra rocketed backward as a bloody spray splattered across the ground. “Forgive me Luna, for I have taken the life of another,” spoke the voice from the radio. “LYRA!” Applejack and I screamed in chorus. She bolted down the tower of the municipal building. “Applejack, wait!” cried Goldenblood, but we were already too far down to pay him any attention. Bursting through the front doors, we rushed to our friend’s side. Applejack tried to lift her, but the armor was much heavier than I remembered. She removed the helmet, revealing Lyra’s bloodstained face. Her eyes were closed, her breathing heavy, the color draining from her face. “Lyra! Lyra, say something!” pleaded a weeping Applejack. She just lay there, still as the ground beneath us. Goldenblood and Silver Stripe finally caught up with us as we sat together. “A-Applejack?” Lyra asked weakly, a low gravel in her voice from the fluid that was building in her lungs. “It’s me, Lyra. I’m here.” “What... you do... Bon Bon?” “Bon Bon? I haven’t seen her since the day she gave me the apple-carrot taffy.” “Mercenary... took her... Riverside... My compass... she’s there.” Lyra pointed toward city hall. “Goldenblood! There is somepony trapped in here!” exclaimed Psalm from her perch. “I can hear shouting!” Goldenblood rushed back into the building. “Then... You weren’t here because of our meeting. You came because Bon Bon was foalnapped?” I heard the doors behind me slam open “LYRA!! NOOO!!” We all looked back at the yellow mare charging us. “Move, Applejack!” Applejack did so. “Lyra! Thank Celestia you’re still alive! The mercenary said you were going to die. Are you going to be ok?” “I’m fine...” Lyra coughed, spattering Bon Bon’s face with her blood and betraying her words. “No, you aren’t fine, Lyra! You’re dying right in front of me! Doesn’t anypony have a health potion?!” “Even if we did, she wouldn’t be able to drink it with all the blood in the way, and the armor is too heavy for us to simply remove it and apply the potion directly,” Applejack said solemnly. “We can’t help her now.” “Your armor!” Bon Bon exclaimed, fighting the tears which streamed down her cheeks. “Doesn’t it have health potions and a healing talisman?” “I used... all potions. Talisman is... destroyed...” Lyra’s breathing became choppy and pained as everypony watched, but she smiled. “I’m glad... you’re safe... Bon Bon. I’ll... waiting... you... okay?” “Don’t say that! You’re going to make it through this!” “Live well... Be best pony... Always know... I lo...” she coughed again, gurgling up more crimson. “I... lo..” And then the gravel in her throat stopped altogether. "Lyra...?" No reply. "LYRA!" Bon Bon clutched her lover's lifeless body and held it close to her chest. Bitter, salty tears streamed from her eyes. "Please don't leave me..." “Applejack, Silver Stripe, we should leave Bon Bon alone with Lyra,” said Goldenblood. The three of us stood up and walked back to city hall. I took one last look behind me at the two mares before entering the building. Bon Bon was cradled next to Lyra’s body, having placed Lyra’s arm over her. She wept silently, unable to do anything else. Applejack closed her eyes and tipped her hat, then followed the others inside. “I think somepony just tried to cripple Equestria’s military might,” Goldenblood declared once we were inside. Silver Stripe and Applejack looked at him curiously. “What do you mean by that?” Silver asked. “Somepony tricked Lyra into coming here. Somehow they must have known about Lyra’s machines and made it so that she would definitely use them. And declare war on us at the same time. If she won, then the head of the MWT, the cybernetics prodigy of Hoofington, and the director of the O.I.A. would all be dead. If she lost, then the single greatest technological mind in all of Equestria would be dead. Either way, Equestria loses.” “And it worked. We’ve lost our best engineer, and a major driving force in our technologic growth,” commented Silver Stripe. “It hasn’t worked completely. We can use what Lyra has left us,” suggested Goldenblood. “What are you saying? We kill her and take her equipment like a bunch of bandits? I won’t do such a horrible thing to a friend!” Applejack stomped in fury, appalled by the idea. “Please, use her machines,” whimpered a voice from the door. The three of us looked back and saw Bon Bon standing there, puffy-faced and red-eyed. “She wanted nothing more than to help Equestria, but nopony took her seriously. When she came to rescue me, she brought her most potent equipment to defeat every enemy, and she did. I saw the bodies out there. One pony killed 50 griffons. And she wasn’t even a trained soldier! She was an engineer. Give her technology to actual soldiers and just end this stupid war!” “Are you sure, Bon Bon?” asked my host. “It’s what she would have wanted,” Bon Bon confirmed. “I will have her body moved to MWT headquarters. I’m sorry events have turned out like this, but this may be the breakthrough we need to end the fighting.” “Applejack, wait!” I stopped and turned back to face Lyra’s lover one last time. “What is it, Bon Bon?” “Lyra was using this in her fight.” Bon Bon pulled out the black pistol which I had seen earlier. “I think she meant for you to have it. See these marks?” Three apples were carved into its ivory handle. “This is the gun I commissioned...” “It’s Lyra’s last gift. Please, take it.” “No, not her last gift. She gave her life to rescue you, Bon Bon. That’s her true last gift.” My host placed a consoling hoof on Bon Bon’s shoulder before walking toward the transport as the world faded away. The Last Day“It’s been over a year since you died.” I recognized my voice as that of Bon Bon’s. She was standing in front of a park bench in a grand city. I could hear a dull thud of missile fire overhead. The city was surrounded by a massive shield which protected it from the explosions. “So much has happened since we last spoke. I remember that day like a waking nightmare. My captor said you were going to be killed, that 50 of his companions were waiting for you. He even set up a camera feed so I could watch your death. When you first arrived, I thought you were a monster, but then I remembered that you had created those silly human arms and legs. You always joked that you would cut of your legs and use them one day, but I never thought you would use them the way you did. Your fury was unlike anything I had ever seen, before or since. The way you destroyed those griffons was disconcerting, but you were doing your best to save me. When the last one fell, when you stood there alive among so many enemies, I knew you would find me and free me. But then you were shot. I watched you fall, and my world fell with you. I screamed and screamed, but you couldn’t hear me until that gunner found me. And then you died in my hooves. I gave Applejack your designs for power armor. The pony kind, of course, not the human kind, and she’s done a lot with them. There's an entire subsection of the army now called the ‘Steel Rangers’. They act as her personal force, escorting her and working with the Equestrian military frequently. They aren’t as powerful as you were, or as terrifying to look at, but they are still very formidable. They’ve added a self-repair talisman to the suit. Just some scrap metal is all it takes to fix any defects from combat. I gave your arms and legs to Silver Stripe. You remember her, right? She was the prodigy from Hoofington that you were always talking about. Last I heard, she was working on a project to give ponies who lost their legs in battle cybernetic limbs like yours. Some ponies even opted to have fingers! Looks like you were ahead of your time, as usual. Stable-tech bought the designs and code for the PipBuck and ran with them. There are several models out now, both for personal and for combat use. Applejack named the gun she commissioned from you Little Macintosh and eventually gave it to her cousin, Braeburn, at the Ponyville branch of Ironshod Firearms. As for me, I’ve moved to Canterlot. It makes visiting your grave easier. After you died, they brought your body to the Ironshod Firearms HQ here in Canterlot to remove your armor and your limbs. They wanted to cremate you, but I didn’t allow it. When I requested that you be buried in Ponyville, they said that transporting a dead pony just to be buried isn't feasible, given the state of the war. We compromised and had you buried in Ministry Walk, underneath the bench. You always loved sitting on the park bench in that weird fashion of yours, all sprawled out like your hips were broken when you had the free time. I miss the days when I could rest my head in your lap and doze off under the sun, listening to the birds and the conversations of the ponies passing by. I wish you were still here... I say that, and I mean it, but in a way it's good that you don't have to see how the war is going. We have the advantage, which is a good thing. We've invented a weapon called the Megaspell. It basically takes a small spell and magnifies it a hundredfold. We also have something called a Bypass spell, so we can target specific things without affecting others. For instance, a megaspell bomb that only targets zebras and doesn't affect ponies. Or a grenade that only affects electrical things. Sadly, the zebras somehow got their hooves on megaspell technology. During the last MWT meeting, I learned that we and the zebras have missiles armed with balefire bombs, our most powerfully destructive megaspell, trained on each other. I'm afraid that somepony will eventually push the button and end the world...” Bon Bon's cheek became wet as the first tears started to pour. “Sorry... I promised myself that I wouldn’t cry, but this is just so hard for me to think about. Let me take a seat.” She paused for a moment, regarding the park bench. When she finally approached it, she sat down and leaned back awkwardly. “You know, this is the first time I've been on a bench since the day before I was foalnapped. The way you used to sit feels... odd, but not uncomfortable. Now... Oh yes, the end of the world." Bon Bon composed herself. "Even with that horrible outcome, Stable-tech has a plan. They've been building Stables all over Equestria in case it comes to that, so the populace can survive. They have governments set up to ease the transition. Canterlot may be the only place that survives, because the Princesses are shielding--” Suddenly, screams emanated from all around. Bon Bon looked around until she spied the cause: the castle was issuing an enormous pink cloud. Every pony it touched seemed to melt in place, either becoming a puddles of goo or fusing into whatever they were touching. The cloud was swiftly approaching the rest of the city, causing a general panic and a stampede toward the Stable. “Somepony just pushed the button, Lyra. No missiles made it through the shield, but they smuggled something in that's killing everything, and I don't have time to make it to the Stable. It's been over a year, but now you don't have to wait for me anymore. I'll see you soon, my love...” The pink cloud overtook me. I mentally screamed as my skin dissolved away, leaving my flesh and nerves exposed to the mist. Bon Bon was just as tough as Lyra in ability to steel herself from the pain, but it racked my senses violently. I could feel her liquefying muscles flow past her bones, which seemed impervious to the cloud. I watched Bon Bon's body sink into the bench just before her eyes disintegrated from inside her skull. The pink flooded her sinuses, eating away at the nose, throat and tongue. Then the cloud found her brain...
Before the WarWhat the hell? Everything's so... bright. Colorful. And it smells amazing here. I'm reading about a creature called 'Human' from a book as thick as my hoof. WAH!! My hoof! My leg! I'm... colorful! A bright blue-green type colorful. Mother of Celestia, I hope I’m dreaming. And even if I’m dreaming, this is the weirdest dream I've ever had. “Welcome to Lyra and Bon Bon's Confectionery! How may I-- Applejack!” I said, rushing to greet the orange mare. Well, since I can't seem to control myself, may as well let the dream take me where it will. "It's been ages since I've seen you in Ponyville!” “Good mornin’, Lyra. Yea, I’ve been busy. How are you an' Bon Bon doin'?” Applejack said, releasing me from a hug. Hold on... I know she can't be that much shorter than me. Am I really only on two hooves? “We're doing very well! She's in the back cooking up some muffins for Derpy. Would you like something? My treat for such a wonderful surprise visit!” I guided Applejack to the counter of sweets, somehow remaining on two hooves like it was the most natural thing in the world. “Well, alright. I am a bit hungry.” I levitated a couple-- Oh my. I haven't felt this sense in a very, very long time... This feeling... I'm a unicorn again. The sensation of magic flowing through my horn overwhelmed me, and I mentally wept. My dream body didn't join me though, as it didn't seem to care what I was thinking. “How do you like it?” Lyra asked, watching in expectation. “It's not bad. What exactly is it?” asked Applejack, chewing the last of the candy. “It's a taffy. I hope you liked it! Can you guess the ingredients?” “I do like it. As for ingredients, I can taste my own apples anywhere, but this has somethin' else in it. What's the secret?” “Carrots.” “You mixed MY fruit with HER vegetables?!” Applejack cried, more shocked than angry. “Where else am I supposed to get Bon Bon's ingredients? Besides, I'd say the result was pretty good.” From the look on her face, she couldn't help but agree. “Oh, it's Applejack!” A pale yellow earth pony with a blue and pink mane walked out from the back, carrying a tray of muffins. “I just finished a batch of muffins for Ditzy Doo. Would you like one?” “Are you kiddin’, Bon Bon? If that mare found out I had one of her muffins, no amount of twitchy-tails would save me!” We all laughed. “Too true,” Lyra replied. “Anyways, as much as I would like to believe you’re here for the confections, I can’t imagine a busy mare like yourself isn’t working.” Applejack nodded. “Why don’t you sit down and tell us about it?” “Hey, even ponies like me need a break every now and then. Besides, there’ve been some weird things goin’ on with the others.” We all walked over to a table and sat together. “Like what?” asked Bon Bon. “Pinkie’s sense has been telling her that something big is going to happen soon, but she doesn’t know what it could mean. She’s never felt anything like it before.” “It’s probably just Pinkie being Pinkie. You know how she gets,” Lyra mused. I didn’t actually know, but the others seemed to understand. “I’d think the same thing, but Zecora’s been actin’ strange too. Not only them, but even Twilight is in half a frenzy. Normally she’s not the superstitious type, but somethin’ in the stars is tellin’ her about some impending calamity.” Applejack shook her head. “I know this sounds crazy, but she did know about Nightmare Moon’s return. What if this is more than hocus pocus?” “All three of them? I wonder what’s going on.” *CRASH! badum crash* The four of us landed in a heap next to the counter. Actually, one pony, a grey Pegasus mare with blonde hair and wonky eyes, was sitting on the rest of us and chewing on something. “Hello Ditzy! Do you like the muffins I baked you?” the voice of Bon Bon said from beneath me. My heart leapt when the grey mare looked down and beamed us with such a grin of purest joy that even after being pummeled and sat on, I couldn’t help but feel glad for her. “Would you mind getting off so we can get up, please?” “I’d better get goin’,” said Applejack after we climbed to our hooves and dusted each other off. “My schedule is gettin’ hectic with Zap Apple Season comin’ up.” “If you need any help with this problem, let me know. I’ll be glad to offer my services,” Lyra said. “I’m not sure how sweets would help, but thanks.” Applejack waved goodbye as she trotted down the street. Bon Bon and Lyra walked back inside. “Lyra... Do you think their problems are related to your research?” she asked, concerned. “I hope not, but it’s possible. Historically there have been many disputes over economic treaties like the new coal-gem agreement, even during the time of humans. Sometimes even leading to all out war.” “Oh dear. That would be horrible!” Bon Bon exclaimed, a little frightened by the idea. “What’s war?” Lyra glanced over at the crumb-covered Pegasus and frowned. “If it’s anything like history has shown, it’s something bad, Ditzy. Something I hope we never see in Equestria.”
Project Ponification“It is finished. Hold out your hoof,” said a familiar voice. My eyes were shut, foreleg outstretched. A small object was placed in my hoof. I lifted the object to my mouth and bit slowly, savoring each mouth-watering bite. The flavor was like an explosion of flavor and texture, like taking Juniper’s specialty and turning it into a candy. “Do you like it?” “Bon Bon...” I opened my eyes slowly to see the yellow mare from last time, eyes expectant. “This is by far, the best apple-carrot taffy you have ever made. I think you’ve finally perfected the recipe.” “I’m glad. I hope Applejack will like them just as much as you do, love.” “I’m sure she will. After all, last time she--” *CRASH thud crash!* “Oh, hello Derpy.” “Mail for Lyra Heartstrings!” My host climbed back to her hooves and accepted the letter. “Thank you.” Derpy saluted then flew out through the wall. Yes, the wall. I imagine it couldn’t have been very comfortable. “Well, go on. Open it.” I did so and read silently: “Dear Lyra, I know we had made plans to meet up today so I could try Bon Bon’s candy, but I won’t be able to make it. Tension with the Zebras is mounting, and I’ve just been asked to act as an intermediary along with Twilight, Rainbow Dash and the others for this next set of meetings. I’m sorry to disappoint you. Maybe when this all blows over, ok? Until next time, Applejack P.S.: Celestia says ‘Ponify me.’ I don’t get it, since she’s already a pony. Do you know what that’s supposed to mean?” “It’s actually happening...” I muttered. “What’s going on, Lyra?” asked a curious Bon Bon. “Talks are going on between Equestria and the Zebra Nation about the treaty. Talks that I don’t think are going to end well.” I set the note down on the countertop and began to remove items from the display case. “Are you suggesting that we’re going to go to war?” “Not suggesting. Predicting.” “You’re not saying that because of human mythology, are you?” “As soon as we made that stupid treaty, history was set into motion, and history always repeats itself. Even across mythology.” “Oh, Lyra! Don’t you have any hope for Ponykind anymore? You’ve become so wrapped up in your books and stories that you’ve lost sight of the goodness in front of your face. We aren’t humans! We might make it through this without bloodshed!” I paused my work and looked sternly at Bon Bon. “Humans were a lot like us. They may not have had magic or flight, or even four hooves, but they had governments and diplomacy. They rarely resorted to military force until negotiations had broken down, just like what’s happening here. The longer this goes on, the more likely war will start.” “I refuse to believe ponies and zebras can’t work something out. Why can’t we just trade the materials like the agreement outlines?” “Because both sides want the better end of the deal. Neither side wants an even split like the agreement dictates. From the moment of its birth, it was destined by history to fail.” I resumed my task. “And what if you’re right? What if Equestria and the Zebra Nation end up fighting? Don’t they know that we have magic on our side as well as ponies capable of flight? They can’t win, so why not just let the talks go through?” “It’s not that simple, Bon Bon. The zebras have potions and talismans, which can be much more effective than spells. On top of that, they’re usable by any zebra, not just a single spellcaster. We don’t have anything like that. No, it may be the zebras who win.” “Then what are we going to do, Lyra? If there really is no way to avoid a war, and the zebras have the advantage, what can we do?” My host hesitated. “Bon Bon, I have a confession to make. I’ve been keeping something secret from everypony. A big secret, even from you.” “What sort of secret?” she asked, shocked. “One of the human leaders once said ‘Speak softly and carry a big stick’. What that means is start with negotiation, but always be ready and able to beat your enemy senseless if you have to.” “I don’t understand. How is your secret related?” “It’s a little ironic, really. I’ve spent much of my later life trying to be more like a human, but now I’ve made something to be more suited to a pony. Ever since the coal-gem agreement was created, I’ve been working on a project called ‘Project Ponification’. It’s taken a lot of research, development, and time, but I've finally finished it. This will be Equestria’s ‘Big Stick’.” “What project?” “This project.” My host pressed a hidden button, opening a compartment which held an object so familiar to me, yet so foreign to its surroundings that my heart leapt in shock. “Bon Bon, this is what the ancient humans would call a ‘Rifle’.”
Talons“More and more ponies are dying everyday! Why won’t you accept my research?!” I recognized my voice as Lyra’s. In front of me stood a set of ponies wearing white lab coats. “Because your ‘research’ isn’t science, it’s fantasy! Battle armor is far too advanced for anypony to legitimately create, let alone mass produce.” “It’s not a waste of time, and I can prove it! I just need the funding. And even if you don’t look at my designs for armor, you should at least look at--” “Lyra, stop wasting our time with myths and legends, and go back to making sweets with your mare friend. We are very busy constructing things that will help us in this war, and we don’t have time to waste on fairy tales.” The scientists walked out, leaving Lyra standing there alone. She stormed from the building to find Bon Bon waiting outside. “It didn’t go well, did it?” “They wrote me off as a quack!” Lyra raged. “Don’t they know who it was who gave them the guns they’re perfecting right now?” “No, they don't. You remained anonymous, remember? You said it would be better for us if they didn’t know because it would split us apart. Do you regret it?” Bon Bon asked sadly. “No, I don’t regret that choice, and I’m sorry I made you upset. I just wish they would at least look at the designs. Now that the Zebras have reverse engineered guns, we need a better form of armor than simple barding, but those ponies in Ironclad can’t see past their snooty upturned noses. Not even Ironshod would spare a thought toward these defensive measures.” “Don’t worry about it, Lyra. You’ve already done so much to help the war effort. Let the scientists do their jobs, ok?” “I...” Lyra looked into Bon Bon’s pleading eyes for a long moment; then her body relaxed. “You’re right. I've worked with MWT and Stable-Tec. I’ve built weapons and created a communications array. Equestria doesn’t need me anymore. Let’s go home.” “There’s the Lyra I know and love. When we get home, I’ll make you some blueberry pastries.” We passed through a building to a railway and waited. Soon, there was the sound of metal against metal and a shrill, piercing whistle. I looked to the side and saw a large structure with many chambers screeching to a halt. If this is a railway, then is that a train? “All aboard! Next stop Ponyville!” cried a pony clad in blue. We boarded the train. It was very well kept inside, having carpeted floors and painted walls. The windows were large enough to allow multiple ponies to watch the scenery as it passed by and had sliding drapes to block the view, if one so desired. I, however, couldn’t imagine anypony wanting to do such a thing. Lyra must have held Bon Bon’s head in her lap (yes, a lap. I was sitting in a peculiar position that allowed for such a thing) for hours as the world flowed by. The outside world was a beautiful blur of mountains and forests. Of rivers and lakes untainted by radiation or foul creatures. Of great cities in the distance as we looked over a vast cliff. Greens and browns and flowers of every color washed my eyes clean of the wasteland as the sun set in golden hue surrounded by a red sky... I never wanted to leave this place. I wanted to hold Bon Bon forever and watch the world go by, but all too soon the train stopped. “Wake up, Bon Bon. We’re here.” Bon Bon picked up her head and looked out the window, as if to confirm Lyra's statement with her groggy eyes. Lyra helped her up and stabilized her on her hooves before walking outside. Come to think of it, this was the first time I’ve ever been outside. Both times I’ve been with Lyra, I’ve been inside the sweets shop. The air smelled clean and fresh, as only something the wasteland hadn’t touched could. It was dark before we arrived back at the shop. We went inside and turned on the lights. The shop was gutted. “Oh, Lyra...” My host immediately turned the lights off, sparing Bon Bon of the sight. “Go to the Cakes’ house. You shouldn’t see this.” She could only stand in shock. Lyra stood right in front of Bon Bon and placed her hooves on her friends shoulder, looking straight into her eyes. “Bon Bon, please. Go now, and wait for me.” Obediently, Bon Bon walked away in silence, unable to react otherwise. Lyra went inside. The place was torn apart. Pieces of the display case were in multiple sections of the room. The tables were either overturned or snapped, and produce was everywhere. The kitchen didn’t fare much better, as pots and pans and assorted smaller utensils covered the floor. Bits and pieces of wall were strewn all over the place in both areas. Lyra pulled a small device out of my pouch and-- hey, that’s a PipBuck! The device whirred to life as it slid over her leg. She switched the menu to a radar, revealing a few red dots still in the area. She withdrew a scoped, black pistol from my pouch. The grip was ivory by the looks of it, and it had three little apples carved into it. “Sorry, Applejack. I know you commissioned this one, but I’m gonna have to use it first.” Lyra glanced at the dots again, then made her way toward the stairwell at the back of the kitchen. Slowly, quietly, she climbed the steps. I could hear whispering coming from above me. “Damn it all to hell!” swore a raspy voice. I sidled against the wall. “You said this was the right place, but we’ve searched everywhere and still nothing! No experiments, no prototypes, not even a research paper. Just some fucking recipes for candy and muffins!” “All her shipments come here. She spends most of her time in this shop. This is the place, or I’m a petty thief.” Lyra poked her head just above the entryway, confirming the three griffons weren’t looking in her direction. Their weapons were leaning against the wall a short distance away. “Then you’re a petty thief. There’s nothing here, boss,” said the third. “May I ask what’s going on here?” Lyra stood at the top of the stairs, pointing the gun directly at the leader. “Fuck! She wasn’t supposed to be back for another hour!” The leader glanced toward his cache of firearms. “Ah-ah-ah. I wouldn’t move for your guns, if I were you,” my host warned. “You wouldn’t make it two steps before--” One bolted. Suddenly the world around me seemed to slow to less than a crawl as a strange interface came into my view. The runner’s head glowed: 95%. *BOOOOOOOM!!!* I watched as the bullet flew powerfully through his skull, blasting the wall behind him with a red-ish grey paste. The world returned to normal, and the rest of the his body crashed to the floor. “I tried to warn you.” The remaining intruders exchanged a glance. “Alright, you got us.” “Who are you?” “We’re the Talons.” “Mercenaries? Who hired you?” “Can’t tell you that, Lyra. That would compromise my contract.” “Your contract has already been compromised. Your mission failed as soon as I found Bon Bon’s life in ruins. Either tell me, or forfeit your other subordinate.” “Kill me then! I’ll never make the boss break his code!” I fired, leaving another splash of paste on the wall. “BOSS!” “Now your boss can’t break his code. Tell me who sent you, or join your friends.” Lyra cocked the pistol. I never knew she was this brutal... “Please, don’t kill me!” the griffon pleaded. “You wrecked my home, looking for something to steal from me. You aren’t just petty criminals, since you planned for the moment you knew I’d be gone. You’re a mercenary, fulfilling a job that is harmful to me and my way of life.” The last remaining enemy’s eyes grew wider by the second, his feathers sticking to his head from the sweat as I approached him slowly. “I’m sorry! Please have mercy!” “Not only that, but you brought war to Ponyville, a haven of peace. You destroyed the culmination of my love’s work. You raped her innocence of the outside by bringing your evil here.” I could feel Lyra’s body, which up until now had been eerily calm, burn in her growing rage. “Tell me why, or I’m going to fucking destroy you!!” “We were hired by a group called the O.I.A.! We were told to bring anything involving technology and research created by Lyra Heartstrings!” “What else?!” I flared, my gun wavering in my magical grip. “Lyra, what are you doing?!” I looked behind me to the stairs. The voice belonged to Bon Bon. “Bon Bon! Why aren’t you--” “Look out!” *BOOOM!! BOOOM!!* I mentally screamed in agony as the shotgun pellets tore through Lyra's flesh and flung our body through the air. She crashed to the ground in an ungraceful heap. "LYRA!!" “You must be the one that corpse was talking about.” I could barely make out the griffon walking toward Bon Bon. “L-leave.. B-Bon Bon... Run...” “Don’t move, or I’ll kill Lyra right now!” To my dismay, Bon Bon stayed. The griffon turned back toward me, never pointing his gun away. “You’re a tough little bitch. Tell you what we’re gonna do. I’m gonna foalnap your lover here, and you’re gonna bring every last scrap of research with you to Riverside. If you don’t, I’ll assume you died and have no reason to keep her anymore, savvy?” The intruder sprinkled my non-existent limbs with a health potion, sealing the wounds. “Can’t have you dying before my bosses get what they want. You’ve got one week. You! Downstairs and out the back.” The two of them disappeared from my sight, then Lyra’s eyes closed.
VengeanceWhen they reopened, it was daylight. Lyra crawled to the stairs and slowly thumped her way down to the kitchen and to the island in the center, kicking away debris as she went. She reached out and touched the corner, depressing a hidden switch. “It’s so real to me: Anthropology.” *click tick!* The corner opened, allowing the island to open at the side. Inside was a large metal contraption that honestly made no sense to me. “I don’t have to horse around now. I can stand on two legs.” The robot whirred to life. “Good morning, Mrs. Heartstrings. How may I be of assistance today?” it asked. “I would trade my magic powers for a set of new legs.” “Oh dear. May I take a look at the extent of the damage?” “Grab your camera. Come on, zoom in.” “You look absolutely horrible. Would you like a full reconstruction, or merely a repair?" “‘Cause your favorite mare’s a human. Me!” “If you insist. Are you sure you want the full reconstruction?” “That’s who I’ll be.” “Acknowledged. Full reconstruction selected. Please provide password.” “Anthropology.” “Password accepted. There are some appendages in the way, so I’ll have to remove them. This may sting a little.” The high-pitched grind of a buzzsaw pierced my ears as a pair of metallic claws gripped just below where my legs connected to my torso. Oh shit! No! No no no no no no no no no no no BAD! Bad memory! Bad saw! Go awAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!! I watched in horror as the robot slowly tore through her limbs. Lyra seemed prepared for this, however, as not even a squeak passed through her throat. She ground her teeth together, but the griffon was right. She is very tough. That doesn’t mean I was glad to be going through it with her. The saw carved a neat curve out of my body, leaving a smooth if bloody cavity. The robot sprayed a healing mist over the area which used to be my left foreleg, sealing it. “You’re doing wonderfully, Mrs. Heartstrings. Just need to remove one more appendage and smooth out a couple rough patches, then the reconstruction may begin.” I determined to be as tough as Lyra this time around, but it was incredibly difficult. Her eyes closed, which made it easier, but the squeal which ground into the bones of her hindleg still caused me to cry out. Again, the spray of healing potion soothed the searing flame that burned in her flank. The saw died down, and Lyra opened her eyes. I saw both of her left legs lying in bloody heaps next to her. If I could’ve made this body puke, I would have. *schick* Pain flared through her right side, this time from the scalpels that dug through the nubs of her right legs. Round and round they went until the stumps were removed, exposing my insides to the open air once again. The robot pulled a magnet from somewhere and applied it to the bloody area, drawing out the shotgun pellets that had been embedded inside. Finally, the procedure was over, and Lyra was healed for a third time. “Very good, Mrs. Heartstrings! I am highly impressed by your fortitude. The removal process is complete. Commencing prosthetic reconstruction. Attaching nerve reception plate.” A large metal plate contoured to Lyra's body and adhered to her belly, covering her entire underside and around the flank. “Nerve reception plate in place. Please apply magic to seal the bond.” Her horn glowed a weak blue, touching the edges of the new attachment with her magic. “Magic applied. Attaching prosthetic limbs.” Four oddly shaped chunks of metal issued from beneath the island. Those didn’t look anything like pony legs! The limbs attached to receptacles which held them in place and interwove them into the nerve system. “Arms and legs attached. Test of new features recommended.” Lyra rose to her hindhooves and tested the functionality of the new parts. She held her forehooves-- No, these are hands! Fingers and all! The fingers flexed and balled into fists, then straightened out again. She swung her arms forward and backward, up and down, in and out, all the while maintaining her balance incredibly well. I suppose that happens when you practice standing on two hooves all the time. She then looked down at her hoo-- feet. Toes and all. Not claws like a hellhound’s, but actual toes. She wiggled them individually, then rotated her feet, flexed her legs, and even tested balance on a single foot. Surprisingly, it worked! Those new toes really help out when standing, compensating for slight imbalances. “Excellent tests, Mrs. Heartstrings! You have full functionality, and have adapted to your new limbs extremely well. Is there anything else I can do for you?” “Bon Bon, I’m coming for you. Just one more thing I need to grab.” Lyra turned and faced her robot. “Babies, children, teens and elders, all alike have clothes to wear.” I inwardly sighed. In my opinion, Lyra's sing-songing was quickly getting old. “Ah, yes! It is stored here!” The metal creature opened itself, revealing a terrifying suit of armor designed specifically to match Lyra’s new body. It was black from horn to boot with the eyes tinted a deep crimson, made of a tough metal and leather at the joints. Its slanted eyes exuded a look of menace. Just looking at the beast sent chills through my mental spine. “Would you like to wear it now?” “It’s so real to me: Anthropology.” “Very well. Here you are.” Lyra put on the the suit. The leg guards were fastened in place around her mechanical lower half, jointed at the knees and hips for mobility. They contained slots for pistols at the hip, as well as small pouches lining the waist. Next, the torso armor was buckled around her body; essentially a pair of thick slabs of metal which contoured to the curves of her flank, leaving gaps around the limbs. A band of leather connected to a metal belt attached to the leg guards, providing for some protection of her waist without sacrificing movement. On the back were several large holsters, filled by weapons that I couldn’t quite identify. On her feet, she fastened a pair of thick, armored boots, jointed at the top of the foot to allow free movement. On the underside, a set of wheels lay hidden in the sole. A set of enormous bracers reaching from the shoulders down to her hands were attached to the chestplate, again jointed at the shoulders and knees for mobility. On the tops of the arms were two scabbards. Lyra picked up the sharpest of Bon Bon’s kitchen knives and placed them inside, leaving only the tips of the handles showing. She brushed a small switch on the sides of the scabbards. There was a click, and the two knives jettisoned directly into her hands. Satisfied, she placed the knives back inside. Once the ensemble was complete, she picked up her helmet. The place for her eyes was covered by a dark visor, but it immediately sprang to life once she put it on. The world looked much like it had when Lyra had shot the griffon that tried to grab a gun, only not in slow motion. In many ways, it reminded me of a PipBuck. Several images appeared before my eyes, indicating my limbs had a sufficient supply of gems. What that meant, only Lyra knows. Talismans all functioning correctly. Weight negation, ammunition restoration, condition restoration... Damn, Lyra! What the hell was this monstrosity? “You look ready to battle the world, Mrs. Heartstrings.” “Not the world,” said a dark, electronic voice. Was that really the ancient mare I had grown to respect? “Just those responsible for stealing Bon Bon. Thank you for everything. You can go back to sleep, now.” “As you wish. Until we meet again, Mrs. Heartstrings.” The robot returned to the space underneath the island. “Mark Waypoint: Riverside. Primary Objective: Rescue Bon Bon.” A small arrow appeared on the compass at the base of the interface. “You wanted my research? You’re about to get a full blown demonstration. Secondary Objective: Destroy the Talons.” Author's Note Inspiration for the interaction with the robot - Anthropology
Rescue“Applejack, Silver Stripe, welcome to Riverside.” A sickly yellow stallion and a sad little unicorn clad in black greeted us as we approached. Applejack looked to the right and saw a striped pony walking with me. That must be Silver Stripe, which means I must be Applejack. “Thank you, Goldenblood.” Yep, I’m definitely Applejack. “Now, why’d you decide to hold this meetin’ of the minds all the way out here?” “I felt a change of pace would be good for us all. Someplace away from all the troubles where we can all think clearly.” Goldenblood led us to the the largest building in the city. “Riverside City Hall is the perfect place. Quiet and easily defensible.” “You know, it’s not going to be easy to think with all these mercenaries around.” When we entered, there was a multitude of griffons. The lead griffon approached us, making me wary. My last memory of them wasn't exactly sunshine and rainbows. “I have 50 of my best Talons in case of any foul play, Goldenblood. I don’t think anyone is going to get through.” “Very good. Keep watching for anything out of the ordinary,” Goldenblood ordered. “Are you expecting something to happen? Surely you considered the safety of this place before choosing it,” commented Silver Stripe. “Shortly before you arrived, I received word of a possible compromise in our position. You were already en route, so I was unable to warn you and prevent your coming. These griffons were nearby, so I hired them as a precautionary measure just in case something were to happen.” “Bogey approaching from the north!” cried one of the lookouts. The entire mercenary group went on alert. Applejack looked at Goldenblood warily. “My intelligence network is rarely wrong, Ms. Applejack.” Goldenblood excused himself to oversee the events. “What’s the situation, flock leader?” “Something’s coming, but I can’t tell what it is. It’s built like a diamond dog and stands upright, but it has a pony head. It's metallic so it may be a robot. If it is, it’s more advanced than any robot I’ve ever seen. I just don’t know what to make of it.” “Let me see.” Goldenblood took the binoculars from the sentry and peered into the distance at the speck. “Ah, I see. That may be the nature of the information I received. Don’t attack it unless it becomes hostile. We don’t know what it’s capable of.” “Yes sir. Talons, into formation targeting that speck, but hold your fire!” The squad took their posts in case of battle and waited. Goldenblood returned to us. “Applejack, Silver Stripe, I recommend getting out of the area. The threat my intelligence spoke of is on its way here, and it is probably hostile.” “I’ve never run from danger in this war, and I don’t plan on starting now,” my host said, firm in her stance. “Besides, I’d like to see this new threat that you think your mercs can’t handle.” “The Talons are extremely capable, but that’s what I’m afraid of. We may get caught in the crossfire if we remain here, and you have your position to think about,” Goldenblood warned. Applejack sighed. “Very well. Let’s get to higher ground, then.” “I will stay behind and find a vantage point,” said the up until now quiet pony who accompanied Goldenblood. Strangely, she seemed saddened by the task she placed upon herself. Vantage point, huh? A sniper? “Very good, Psalm. We may need you if it comes to battle.” The three of us climbed the stairways of city hall until we reached the top floor. Applejack approached the window and opened it to view the scene. "Applejack, that may not be wise." “If it’s a robot like your griffon thinks, I want to see the tech that our enemy has created. You may be interested too, Silver Stripe, considering you’re up and coming in the cybernetics field.” “If you insist.” She stepped up beside Applejack and peered out the window, searching for the mysterious enemy. “Ah, there it is, Applejack. Over there.” Applejack turned in the direction pointed until I saw the intruder. It was difficult to see without binoculars, but I spotted it where Silver Stripe indicated. “That’s quite the creature. I wonder what’s inside that bit of machinery. Do you recognize it, Silver?” “You mean it isn’t yours? I don’t know anypony with the technical expertise to make something like that outside the MWT or the Iron Co’s. It must have taken a great deal of time and funding to create. It doesn’t seem to be of Zebra make, though. They usually make larger, more destructive machines than that.” “Do you think there’s somepony in Equestria who has that caliber of skill that we don’t already know about?” “Halt,” commanded the squad leader when the suit neared the 50 yard mark. “This area is restricted.” “Are you the Talons?” asked a dark, electronic voice. The same voice that... Oh No! This is Riverside, isn't it? The place where that griffon said he was bringing-- “I’m the leader of this branch of the Talons. Who are you?” The suit of armor pulled a minigun off its back. “I’m the one you tried to steal from. The one whose lover you foalnapped. And for that, I am your worst nightmare!” Lyra, NO! I screamed to no effect as her gun blazed, forcing the Talons to quickly duck behind their cover and prepare to counter-attack. “It’s hostile now, Goldenblood. We’re going to take it down!” shouted the leader toward us. I watched in horror as the squad of griffons moved as a unit against the pony who had gained so much of my respect. Bullets launched toward her as a firestorm, tearing through the air and striking the armor. No, hold on... The bullets were stopping just in front of the suit. “What the hell is going on, Chief?! Our gunfire is completely ineffective!” cried one of the mercs. I looked closely at the suit. Was its horn glowing? “You’re doomed, Talons! I know your guns better than you do. I know where each and every one of you are hiding. My technology is better than yours. When you raided my home, you made the worst possible enemy you could’ve made in this war.” “That’s a lot of hot air for a robot. You haven’t hit one of us yet, have you? Stop gloating and die!” A volley of grenades flew toward Lyra and exploded all around her, a few falling within a few feet of her, kicking up a large amount of dirt and dust. Several moments passed in silence. “Hah! Like I said, nothing but a bunch of hot air.” The dust slowly cleared. The silhouette of a figure standing upright began to form an outline through the cloud, a red glow emanating from the top of the shadow. The shadow’s arm moved into its body, then returned with a large extension. “Do you like explosions that much?” *ssssSSSSHHHHHHHHH BOOOOOOOOM!!!* Three griffons flew without the use of their wings. “You gave me so many. You must really like giving them away, don’t you Talons?” *ssssSSSSHHHHHHHHH BOOOOOOOOM!!!* Four others joined their comrades in spirit as their bodies were flayed by concussions and flechettes. “Why don’t you save a few for yourself?!” The rest scattered, avoiding the missile fire as it rained down from Lyra’s massive gun. “Phew, look at the power in that piece of machinery!” exclaimed Applejack. “It said they raided her home, so there’s probably a pony inside that thing. If that’s the case, then this is the most advanced set of armor I’ve ever seen. I didn’t think something like that was possible.” She looked closely at Goldenblood. “Did you know this was coming?” “I had my suspicions. I also believe I know who is controlling it.” Both Silver Stripe and Applejack regarded him in shock. “Do either of you know of an engineer named Lyra Heartstrings?” “Of course I know her! She’s one of the most respected ponies in Ponyville, and a good friend of mine.” “You may not be aware of this, but she has been trying to sell the idea of battle armor to several major weapons companies, including your own Ministry. Up until now, nopony has taken her ideas seriously.” “What are you trying to say, Goldenblood? That she’s mad nopony will buy her work?” “It is possible that she is trying to make a point about her armor, and I believe she’s made a very clear point. It is extremely effective in the field of battle.” I turned my head back toward the battle. The Talons were being completely decimated, powerless to stop Lyra’s assault. By now, she had discarded her missile launcher in favor of a black pistol. The mercenaries were darting around in the skies, firing from above as she targetted them from the ground. One by one, the Talons fell from the air, virtually helpless against her PipBuck enhanced aim. *krrzzt* “Should I take the shot?” asked a voice coming from Goldenblood’s radio. “Are you crazy?! That’s Lyra we’re talking about!” “That is a possibility, yes. However, all we know is that an unidentified robot or suit of armor is currently attacking a meeting of the strongest technological powerhouses in Equestria. What if it isn’t Lyra? What if this is some other power sent to cut our military might at its head?” “But it doesn’t seem to be interested in us at all. Just the Talons.” “Not anymore, it seems.” Goldenblood pointed to Lyra. She and the lead griffon were engaged in a terrifyingly beautiful dance of blades: the griffon’s armored claws against the armor’s thin twin blades. Stroke after stroke, swipe after swipe, the glint of the sun shone off the edged metals, twinkling like stars. The flashes blazed in my eyes, threatening to enchant my very soul. And then, with a decisive stroke, the pony skewered the griffon. He swore and reeled, but after a brief moment, fell to the earth with a thud. Lyra turned her glowing gaze directly toward us. “It has spotted us.” All around the armored pony lay strewn the bodies of griffons, the last of the Talon mercenaries dead at her feet. “Applejack! Are you the one responsible?!” “Lyra! Is that really you?” “What did you do with--” *CRACK~~~~!!* Lyra rocketed backward as a bloody spray splattered across the ground. “Forgive me Luna, for I have taken the life of another,” spoke the voice from the radio. “LYRA!” Applejack and I screamed in chorus. She bolted down the tower of the municipal building. “Applejack, wait!” cried Goldenblood, but we were already too far down to pay him any attention. Bursting through the front doors, we rushed to our friend’s side. Applejack tried to lift her, but the armor was much heavier than I remembered. She removed the helmet, revealing Lyra’s bloodstained face. Her eyes were closed, her breathing heavy, the color draining from her face. “Lyra! Lyra, say something!” pleaded a weeping Applejack. She just lay there, still as the ground beneath us. Goldenblood and Silver Stripe finally caught up with us as we sat together. “A-Applejack?” Lyra asked weakly, a low gravel in her voice from the fluid that was building in her lungs. “It’s me, Lyra. I’m here.” “What... you do... Bon Bon?” “Bon Bon? I haven’t seen her since the day she gave me the apple-carrot taffy.” “Mercenary... took her... Riverside... My compass... she’s there.” Lyra pointed toward city hall. “Goldenblood! There is somepony trapped in here!” exclaimed Psalm from her perch. “I can hear shouting!” Goldenblood rushed back into the building. “Then... You weren’t here because of our meeting. You came because Bon Bon was foalnapped?” I heard the doors behind me slam open “LYRA!! NOOO!!” We all looked back at the yellow mare charging us. “Move, Applejack!” Applejack did so. “Lyra! Thank Celestia you’re still alive! The mercenary said you were going to die. Are you going to be ok?” “I’m fine...” Lyra coughed, spattering Bon Bon’s face with her blood and betraying her words. “No, you aren’t fine, Lyra! You’re dying right in front of me! Doesn’t anypony have a health potion?!” “Even if we did, she wouldn’t be able to drink it with all the blood in the way, and the armor is too heavy for us to simply remove it and apply the potion directly,” Applejack said solemnly. “We can’t help her now.” “Your armor!” Bon Bon exclaimed, fighting the tears which streamed down her cheeks. “Doesn’t it have health potions and a healing talisman?” “I used... all potions. Talisman is... destroyed...” Lyra’s breathing became choppy and pained as everypony watched, but she smiled. “I’m glad... you’re safe... Bon Bon. I’ll... waiting... you... okay?” “Don’t say that! You’re going to make it through this!” “Live well... Be best pony... Always know... I lo...” she coughed again, gurgling up more crimson. “I... lo..” And then the gravel in her throat stopped altogether. "Lyra...?" No reply. "LYRA!" Bon Bon clutched her lover's lifeless body and held it close to her chest. Bitter, salty tears streamed from her eyes. "Please don't leave me..." “Applejack, Silver Stripe, we should leave Bon Bon alone with Lyra,” said Goldenblood. The three of us stood up and walked back to city hall. I took one last look behind me at the two mares before entering the building. Bon Bon was cradled next to Lyra’s body, having placed Lyra’s arm over her. She wept silently, unable to do anything else. Applejack closed her eyes and tipped her hat, then followed the others inside. “I think somepony just tried to cripple Equestria’s military might,” Goldenblood declared once we were inside. Silver Stripe and Applejack looked at him curiously. “What do you mean by that?” Silver asked. “Somepony tricked Lyra into coming here. Somehow they must have known about Lyra’s machines and made it so that she would definitely use them. And declare war on us at the same time. If she won, then the head of the MWT, the cybernetics prodigy of Hoofington, and the director of the O.I.A. would all be dead. If she lost, then the single greatest technological mind in all of Equestria would be dead. Either way, Equestria loses.” “And it worked. We’ve lost our best engineer, and a major driving force in our technologic growth,” commented Silver Stripe. “It hasn’t worked completely. We can use what Lyra has left us,” suggested Goldenblood. “What are you saying? We kill her and take her equipment like a bunch of bandits? I won’t do such a horrible thing to a friend!” Applejack stomped in fury, appalled by the idea. “Please, use her machines,” whimpered a voice from the door. The three of us looked back and saw Bon Bon standing there, puffy-faced and red-eyed. “She wanted nothing more than to help Equestria, but nopony took her seriously. When she came to rescue me, she brought her most potent equipment to defeat every enemy, and she did. I saw the bodies out there. One pony killed 50 griffons. And she wasn’t even a trained soldier! She was an engineer. Give her technology to actual soldiers and just end this stupid war!” “Are you sure, Bon Bon?” asked my host. “It’s what she would have wanted,” Bon Bon confirmed. “I will have her body moved to MWT headquarters. I’m sorry events have turned out like this, but this may be the breakthrough we need to end the fighting.” “Applejack, wait!” I stopped and turned back to face Lyra’s lover one last time. “What is it, Bon Bon?” “Lyra was using this in her fight.” Bon Bon pulled out the black pistol which I had seen earlier. “I think she meant for you to have it. See these marks?” Three apples were carved into its ivory handle. “This is the gun I commissioned...” “It’s Lyra’s last gift. Please, take it.” “No, not her last gift. She gave her life to rescue you, Bon Bon. That’s her true last gift.” My host placed a consoling hoof on Bon Bon’s shoulder before walking toward the transport as the world faded away.
The Last Day“It’s been over a year since you died.” I recognized my voice as that of Bon Bon’s. She was standing in front of a park bench in a grand city. I could hear a dull thud of missile fire overhead. The city was surrounded by a massive shield which protected it from the explosions. “So much has happened since we last spoke. I remember that day like a waking nightmare. My captor said you were going to be killed, that 50 of his companions were waiting for you. He even set up a camera feed so I could watch your death. When you first arrived, I thought you were a monster, but then I remembered that you had created those silly human arms and legs. You always joked that you would cut of your legs and use them one day, but I never thought you would use them the way you did. Your fury was unlike anything I had ever seen, before or since. The way you destroyed those griffons was disconcerting, but you were doing your best to save me. When the last one fell, when you stood there alive among so many enemies, I knew you would find me and free me. But then you were shot. I watched you fall, and my world fell with you. I screamed and screamed, but you couldn’t hear me until that gunner found me. And then you died in my hooves. I gave Applejack your designs for power armor. The pony kind, of course, not the human kind, and she’s done a lot with them. There's an entire subsection of the army now called the ‘Steel Rangers’. They act as her personal force, escorting her and working with the Equestrian military frequently. They aren’t as powerful as you were, or as terrifying to look at, but they are still very formidable. They’ve added a self-repair talisman to the suit. Just some scrap metal is all it takes to fix any defects from combat. I gave your arms and legs to Silver Stripe. You remember her, right? She was the prodigy from Hoofington that you were always talking about. Last I heard, she was working on a project to give ponies who lost their legs in battle cybernetic limbs like yours. Some ponies even opted to have fingers! Looks like you were ahead of your time, as usual. Stable-tech bought the designs and code for the PipBuck and ran with them. There are several models out now, both for personal and for combat use. Applejack named the gun she commissioned from you Little Macintosh and eventually gave it to her cousin, Braeburn, at the Ponyville branch of Ironshod Firearms. As for me, I’ve moved to Canterlot. It makes visiting your grave easier. After you died, they brought your body to the Ironshod Firearms HQ here in Canterlot to remove your armor and your limbs. They wanted to cremate you, but I didn’t allow it. When I requested that you be buried in Ponyville, they said that transporting a dead pony just to be buried isn't feasible, given the state of the war. We compromised and had you buried in Ministry Walk, underneath the bench. You always loved sitting on the park bench in that weird fashion of yours, all sprawled out like your hips were broken when you had the free time. I miss the days when I could rest my head in your lap and doze off under the sun, listening to the birds and the conversations of the ponies passing by. I wish you were still here... I say that, and I mean it, but in a way it's good that you don't have to see how the war is going. We have the advantage, which is a good thing. We've invented a weapon called the Megaspell. It basically takes a small spell and magnifies it a hundredfold. We also have something called a Bypass spell, so we can target specific things without affecting others. For instance, a megaspell bomb that only targets zebras and doesn't affect ponies. Or a grenade that only affects electrical things. Sadly, the zebras somehow got their hooves on megaspell technology. During the last MWT meeting, I learned that we and the zebras have missiles armed with balefire bombs, our most powerfully destructive megaspell, trained on each other. I'm afraid that somepony will eventually push the button and end the world...” Bon Bon's cheek became wet as the first tears started to pour. “Sorry... I promised myself that I wouldn’t cry, but this is just so hard for me to think about. Let me take a seat.” She paused for a moment, regarding the park bench. When she finally approached it, she sat down and leaned back awkwardly. “You know, this is the first time I've been on a bench since the day before I was foalnapped. The way you used to sit feels... odd, but not uncomfortable. Now... Oh yes, the end of the world." Bon Bon composed herself. "Even with that horrible outcome, Stable-tech has a plan. They've been building Stables all over Equestria in case it comes to that, so the populace can survive. They have governments set up to ease the transition. Canterlot may be the only place that survives, because the Princesses are shielding--” Suddenly, screams emanated from all around. Bon Bon looked around until she spied the cause: the castle was issuing an enormous pink cloud. Every pony it touched seemed to melt in place, either becoming a puddles of goo or fusing into whatever they were touching. The cloud was swiftly approaching the rest of the city, causing a general panic and a stampede toward the Stable. “Somepony just pushed the button, Lyra. No missiles made it through the shield, but they smuggled something in that's killing everything, and I don't have time to make it to the Stable. It's been over a year, but now you don't have to wait for me anymore. I'll see you soon, my love...” The pink cloud overtook me. I mentally screamed as my skin dissolved away, leaving my flesh and nerves exposed to the mist. Bon Bon was just as tough as Lyra in ability to steel herself from the pain, but it racked my senses violently. I could feel her liquefying muscles flow past her bones, which seemed impervious to the cloud. I watched Bon Bon's body sink into the bench just before her eyes disintegrated from inside her skull. The pink flooded her sinuses, eating away at the nose, throat and tongue. Then the cloud found her brain...
