Chapters

Prologue
Chapter 1: New World Old Wounds
Chapter 2: Friend or Foe
Chapter 3: Trust
Chapter 4: An Imperial Response
Chapter 5: Ghosts

Prologue
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Soulless World

Prologue

Earth. Home to a race called “Humans” a race of sentient beings capable of creating such beauty and wonders of engineering and culture. But is equally capable creating such horrors and atrocities to their world and themselves.

Since the dawn of Man. Man has adapted and always moved forward thru hardships and dark days. From sticks and stones to raining fire, blanketing the skies with smoke, to watching a single city be erased from existence from a single atom. Humanity has created such atrocities that have left the Earth forever scared. But In the ashes of war and destruction Humanity bands together to create such wonders of an endless imagination to life striving forward and bring a new day for a life not yet born. From towering skyscrapers that touch the sky itself, to the advancement of knowledge of the stars of other solar systems and worlds of beauty not yet seen by the eyes of man.

In the year of 2023 the nation of Russia signs an economic and diplomatic pact with the former Soviet republics reuniting the USSR. With a new plan the new Soviet Union reaches a golden age of prosperity of the economy and Soviet culture and most importantly the Soviet Military boomed as well creating the most powerful military the history of mankind has seen. As the United States begins to crumble under debt and endless internal wars of those that want their own right to make decisions. A once great nation is reduced to shacks and threats from other powers rising. The USSR sends economic and military help to jump start the American economy. With this the US and the USSR made an Alliance to defend each other and most importantly stop the true threat of the Earth a new radical alliance called the Holy Empire.

In 2046 the Holy Empire began to accumulate more and more land and with their new Religious views of a whole new religion based on finding and being assimilated into god hood to rule a new and fresh world and to mold it into creation as our world was before. The Two Superpowers Join to stop this new threat but due to political road blocks and not having a declaration of war. The Allies and this new Imperial threat start what will be the tensest and bloody Cold War not seen for almost a century. Not just the threat of war is the only reason keeping the world from experiencing a bloody war but the fact that there is a force that lingers in the shadows of this world a shadow that can out burn any explosive, can out race any bullet, can out erase any city or nation from existence, a shadow that only few can harness and control a shadow that defies the laws of physics and logic, a shadow newly discovered but older than the Earth itself. Some call it magic but to a scientific mind it’s an unknown energy that can be used to power cities and create new wonders, or can be used to kill every living thing on this world. Unable to be controlled by technology. This power can only be controlled by a very small amount of people that did not know they had this power until it manifested in them giving them the ability to do anything. But all this comes at a price a price that can destroy them if used too much. The Empire seeks to control it as their way of life and that it must lead to a gate to their religious future they will not stop until it is theirs.

Meanwhile China and Japan are at war with each other and the Korean Communist Republic or formally North Korea. With the threat of nuclear war even more active than before and the actual use of the weapons on standby. Humanity might fall victim to war and self-annihilation. With The United Nations barley holding together anymore, giving the USSR more authority and becoming the one nation able to hold its own and fight overseas for the freedom of nations to choose their own way of life and their freedoms. Throughout the European Nations more and more support for Soviet intervention for the war with the Holy Empire as they begin to lose more and more Capitals to the Empire.

The Fields of man that once made the civilizations of early man to thrive and become a race to behold have now become soaked in the blood of their offspring. With the body count rising in the wars around the world the threat of a full blown Third World War rises every day to split Humanity down the middle one for self-right the other for the religious zealots of a power to render humanity into self-slavery.

Equestria… A nation so very powerful but very peaceful, A nation with a military capable of conquering the world they live on but a military made for its self-defense and to help those in need for peace and freedom. Equestria is the oldest nation on the world called “Solace” A world scared of ancient wars of 5 thousand years but has been spared the horrors of true total war.

With three major powers and one raised from ashes again only one brings trouble to the otherwise now peaceful world. The Griffon Kingdoms a nation of battle hardened city states finally united under one banner but even with a high king devoted to keep his nation under one flag and have peaceful out comes has very little control and is easily out voted for any situation he is given by the smaller leaders of each individual city state. Wishing for continued peace with Equestria he needs the land Equestria has been very fortunate as for the other nations not so easy.

Equestria holds very stable land and very fertile lands for crops and clean water supplies. Giving it the envy of the world. As for Earth’s geology its stable for full planetary life even when it has the hiccups of volcanic activity. Solace isn't very stable volcanic activity is very common along with high doses of radiation from weak Ozone layers in certain areas around the world. The planet is only 1 billion years old and started life at a very early age. But even with this a deadly form of magic residue covers old ruins and ancient civilization that set the seeds for the nations of there today. In all Equestria has been very fortunate in the world of chaos but also holds hope for a more peaceful world that has yet to face the threat of man and its war machines. But the main question still remains what lies beneath our feet buried by the sands of time, Forgotten and lost and what secrets it holds waiting to be found?

Western Brazil

South America

April 21,2066

“ALL RIGHT GIRLS LISTEN UP! We have a High end mission no gossiping about or telling that girl on how you saved the world at the bar to get your dick wet! We move in five! Gear up and get your war faces on!” Came the orders from the Sargent of this squad I was given as thank you for the help but let’s see how far they go.

I was given a folder on this new temple in the South American jungle but it appears there is a high grade unit of Holy Templar's. A special ops group that are ruthless killers with no remorse for life or death, more importantly don’t fear death as well. Witch in turn I’m here. A member of the Hell Knight Program. A Program that takes young children from ages from 5 to 10 and trains them to be killers that obeys any order given at any moment and time. There aren't many of us but it’s a multinational thing under the guidance of the Soviet Spetsnaz and American Special Forces. None the less we are trained killers from a young age and never stay with one unit for long mainly taking lone wolf missions.

“Hey Capt. we are almost there you ready?” said the Sargent as he walked over to me in the drop ship as I sat there starring at my boots.

“Yes I am what about your men?” I asked.

“There about as ready they will ever be” as he walked over and sat down next to me. ”I read your File…well about as much as I could that wasn't black ink didn't see your name must be classified well I tell you the truth that scares the hell right out of me.”

“Well if you’re asking my name you know I can’t tell you and that’s all I can say” I said as I checked my Assault Rifle for any problems.

“Well I can tell you’re all work and no chit chat but I have a bad felling on this one this doesn't feel right not very well told and not enough info” He had right to be worried.

“Seems like just another day to me“ I said as I got a few extra clips but in all truth I could feel it in my gut that this mission was ether going to go FUBAR or something world shaking will go down.

“Hmm I don’t know if you remember me but I remember you back in London you gave the order for me and my men to go secure the LZ and wait for the chopper that never came. Then Royal marines came rolling back into town when you destroyed that damn mobile fortress that was walking around town” the Sargent said as he looked at his rifle as well.

“Yes I remember that one but I didn't do it alone I had some help” I sat up and looked at him. Couldn't have been more than 30 and he seen more war than a soldier from 60 years ago. “You know that even if they don’t have a giant mech here that there is a chance that none of us will make it out not even me.”

He looked at me with the best face he could that didn't show fear but I see the fear in his eyes. “I really hope they don’t have another mech I’m done with those can’t stand the things especially the Harbinger class they have way to many energy guns” even with my special training in seeing thru peoples psyche to tell if they are lying or not I think anyone could tell he had a deep fear of mechs. wonder why?

“So you lose someone close thanks to a mech?” I asked

He looked back down and stared at his rifle for a minute. “Yeah lost my wife a while back she was in Cairo when they launched their damn join us or die campaign first time mechs would be used in a war and it vaporized the town and then they went and started digging under it for what?”

What they found is an underground city over 20000 years old older than the Egyptians and any human settlement in that area but unfortunately we couldn't let them have that so the entire G1 Hell Knight unit witch was 15 of us went in and destroyed the complex and boy was it a beautiful explosion nothing but a crater now. Blamed the whole thing on the space elevator they had there and it was partially the truth as well but we were never there and avoided a war while getting away with blowing up a damn city. The only people in the city were their scientist and a large military excavation crew apparently they have been digging up lost ruins for a long time now believing the past held their future… the sad thing is it was true.

“I know of that but don't let it get to you it can get the team and yourself killed.”

“Yeah you’re right well the DZ is a few minutes away let’s get this artifact and get out!” He got up and walked out to the other end of the giant transport ship and started yelling at his men. Something about them showing the enemy who are the toughest men around. Then the ship started to slow and descend.

I grabbed my ‘war pact’ a big metal backpack that can carry all your supplies and ammo and equipment meant for making a camp wherever needed any environment. I also put my helmet on but unlike a normal trooper helmet it covers the whole head. It has no visible visor but a metal face plate but on the inside screens and other visual lights flared up. It was bio-metrically and plugged into my armor suit. A very heavy suit made especially for me and me only. It plugged into my spine and nerve system so it could move with me and felt weight less well to me any ways. It too was black but had a dark blue stripe on my shoulder with a gold star as a patch painted on it indicating my nation I am from. I’m from the Alaskan Federation which gained independence in the second American civil war. After that they joined the Alliance with the USSR shortly after that the US joined as well.

I got up and started walking into the cargo bay when I heard someone call me my name over the head set com, a rough voice began to speak.

“Your mission priorities have changed I am downloading two new files into your hard drive on your war pack you are not to access those files until I tell you too. And now you’re wondering who I am well I am your new best friend and I need no introduction because we've met before”

The radio went back to static I immediately contacted Command and waited for a response then it picked up “Channel Secure State Identity Code”

“HK04Alpha2036”…. “Hello? Captain you need something?” The lady on the line said.

“Yes have there been any new developments for the mission?” I asked knowing the real answer.

“No it’s go in get the Artifact and get out… Why are you asking?” She said that almost as if I was stupid.

“No reason never mind but I’m going to keep this channel on I’m at the DZ anyways switching back to squad coms” I switched back just to get into the middle of a conversation of the squad I’m with

“Hey all I’m saying is this drop is sketchy and not enough info on it, less than usual!” Corporal Mike said

“Hey MIKEY MOUSE SHUT THE BOX!” and there was the Sargent yelling at his men again

“Hey Sarge do you think they really do have magical powers now and can shoot lightning out?” asked the rookie Private Thaners.

“Hey Rookie I know for a fact that is not true so endless we are here to chit chat them to death get your cocks ready and get ready to jump.” The sarge yelled right before the giant metal door on the side of the drop ship opened and we hear over the intercom

“Green Light Boys!” at that moment the squad jumped out of the ship and rolled on the ground in a small clearing. I just jumped and landed on my feet thanks to my full body armor it felt like I jumped off a couch but to them it was 6 feet off the ground just enough for the ship to quickly take back off.

“All right! Ladies group up Thaners take point Mikey watch our ass let’s move we got to get to that target before sun down let’s move girls.” Sargent Heartlers said as the squad marched into the thick forest I just walked next to them watching the tree line for anything that is out of place.

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Two hours latter.

“so how many do you think there is? looks like twenty.” Said private Thaners.

“Thirty. Not including Absolution…” I thought out loud without realizing it.

“Wow… Thirty Templars and Absolution…Wait! Who the Hell is Absolution?” Said Mikey man I hate that man he is going to get us caught with that mouth of his.

“Can it Mikey! But for once you did say something that makes sense who is Absolution?” Sargent surprised me with that one but also had me.

“Absolution is a mad man with too much ambition and rank. He gets too much funding for his archaeological digs throughout the world… also responsible for the Cairo and Panama attacks all for some digs.” I didn't give them any real info other than Cairo. “But let’s get that artifact out and hopefully take out Absolution but he won’t let this go easy I have reason to believe that he isn't going to let go of this find easy since it’s never been discovered before now.”

“Who found it?” Private Thaners said in an almost fearful voice.

“They did.” Man I really am getting tired of all these questions.

“He’s right men let’s do this, Sunshine I want you on that hill over there on the east looks like a good vantage point, Mikey and Thaners take the west approach, and Sparky you’re with me we go in from the front, and last but not least Captain can you keep them off of us and do what you do kill the bastards.” Sargent Heartlers said with more of a what to do with you tone of voice when he told me what to do. Although he could give real orders to me but his plan did make it for me to do that.

As they split up I moved up to go down the center but not too close to the Sargent. I needed to draw the attention to me instead of them I can take the bullets with my armor but I hope they keep those heavy gunners off and I can kill the smaller guys… I hope this works.

“Sarge I’m in position I can see the guards only fourteen in total the rest must be inside, but in the center is a group of eight, a good rocket or grenade would kill them in one shot they seem to be reading something in the center should we take the gamble now?” said LC Ushokan

“Fire in the hole men light them up and give them hell” just as the sarge said that he threw a frag grenade right into the group of soldiers that where talking with one another. BOOM! the group was ripped into pieces with shocked guards turning around.

Time slowed down as I raised my rifle aimed and four shots fired out and four men dropped I stood up and walked forward firing two more shots and the last two men fell with half a head. Time sped up again as the rest of the team ran up from there spots to secure the outside of the temple and converged on the door to the temple.

I walked up grabbing a dead guard and took his card key and swiped it on the door panel opening the door and walked in. The group walked in behind me. Rifle raised I descended down the stairs in a single file until we entered a chamber with flood lights aimed at the walls lighting up the whole room. A massive room with carvings of an ancient life and culture a history on the walls a beautiful room with a door on the other side. But as I looked at the doorway stood the man that has been terrorizing the world in order to find god hood in his own image to destroy whatever is in his way “Absolution” I growled out aiming my rifle at his head.

“So good to see you again Captain oh how I have missed our little talks and arguments… but as you can see you are too late as we speak the device we found is charging up I can already feel the power pulse throughout my veins it would be a shame if you miss it. But I’m needed to create a new world and mold it for the future of mankind. Oh do play nice I don’t want to be interrupted.” He said wile straightening his white trench coat and turned to walk away but before I could pull the trigger his guards stepped in front of him and started opening fire on me and the group.

They took cover behind a downed pillar. I could hear the Sargent yell something but I didn't catch what he said as bullets rained down on me from heavy guns. I turned and jumped into a pillar and reloaded my mag and got ready to unload it when my squad opened suppression fire and Mikey shot a rocket at them killing the enemy. I ran forward into the room just as I heard the men behind me yell in pain as they got shot up from behind as 2 more troopers entered behind us.

But too late to turn I need to destroy that artifact. I just barley ran through as the doorway turned into a wall. A massive stone that was meant to be a door crashed behind. I looked up from the ground and seen a huge glowing blue round energy with a stone ring around it. But before I could get up I was immediately thrown against the wall. When I stood back up There 6 ft. in front of me was Absolution. He looked a lot different his eyes where glowing red and looked like lightning was zapping out of his eyes. Before I could react he swung his hand to his left and I was flung by an unseen force into a wall cracking the huge stone wall. I got back up but was in a lot of pain even through my armor I was getting bruised up and feeling my bones be smashed by pure force my right arm wasn't working the mechanics of the armor hydraulics where damaged something I could repair but needed time.

Unfortunately I have no such freedom at the moment. As I got back up I found myself floating. “Any last words you soulless savage?” he said right before he threw me into the ground harder than ever before crushing my arm but I still got up still, but before he could throw me again I grabbed my .45 hand gun and fired into his knee twice. He screamed in pain as his leg was nearly torn off by the two rounds that exploded into his knee but he tried to stand back up but before he could I tackled him putting a combat knife right through his gut ripping his innards up. Before i realized I ran into him and we both ended up jumping right into the giant blue energy device. Everything was black but I could still feel the air around me, I felt like I was being sling shotted a million miles per second but then the suddenly I was flown into a wall. Everything went black again.

Chapter 1: New World Old Wounds
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Soulless World

Chapter 1: New World Old Wounds

Canterlot, Equestria

Royal Castle

“Your highnesses the Changelings Have accepted and are willing to have their Queen visit the castle for more peace talks and settlement locations.” A Pegasus with white fur and golden armor stated as he bowed before the two alacorns. On the left is Princess Celestia the one that raises and lowers the sun. On the right is Princess Luna the one that raises and lowers the moon.

“Good we look forward to seeing Chrysalis and begin a new friendship for Equestria.” Celestia said looking to her sister for conformation. Witch she got from Luna. It has been a crazy three month but very glad that even after the desperate attack on Canterlot” Equestria avoided a war again from neighboring nations and tribes outside Equestria’s boarders she thought but she couldn’t shake the gut feeling that it was going to get worse.

“Your Majesty!” said a guard running into the room.

“Yes what is it?” Celestia said slightly concerned with the rush of the guard.

“Your Majesty there was an Earthquake in Ponyville!” A gasp escaped both of the princesses mouths when that was said.

“Ready my Chariot Now!” Celestia yelled over to her guard.

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Ponyville, Equestria

Town Hall

Twilights Pov

“Ok everypony calm down I’m sure this was just a onetime occurrence and the matter will be salved quickly… but for now everypony is to stay here at town hall until a matter of action can be salved” Mayor Mare said before a town of confused and scared ponies. The town just faced a really large earthquake from somewhere in the area but luckily no pony was hurt. From the looks of it the town didn’t look as if any damage was done ether.

“Applejack! Where have you been?” I said over the crowd and the girls.

“Sorry Twilight but y’all should see back at the farm I told Big Mac and Applebloom to go back inside the house.” the Orange mare trotting up the group of ponies said.

“What you mean by that AJ?”I said I couldn’t think of anything bad really happening.

“Well the earth began to shake and then in the orchard the ground began to open up and I could tell there was something else beneath my hooves it’s that feeling you get when something bad is abo-“ The earth began to shake and rumble again but much more violent than before.

“Aftershock!” a brown pony yelled out into the crowd. The shaking didn't let up.

The earth began to get more violent, everypony was on the ground unable to stand or move. Then the sound of wood splintering was heard over the loud rumbling. Crack! One of the pillars of town hall snapped and like dominos the whole dome began to crumble under its own weight and collapsed in and the center and the whole building came crashing down. Acting almost instinctively I put up a protective shield around all the ponies protecting us as the building crashed on us.

Then suddenly BOOM! A bright light shot out in the background with the sound of thunder. And as suddenly as it began it stopped with dead silence. A foal began to cry in the background as all the ponies began to slowly stand up after what happened. The mysterious blue beam shooting into the sky lasted for a minute before fading into nothing.

“What in Tarnation-APPLEBLOOM!” Applejack yelled as she ran toward her farm witch was in the direction of that blue beam was about a minute ago.

“Applejack wait!” Rainbow yelled flying into the same direction.

“Wa-wah-what happened?” I managed to stutter out as I tried to get up.

“Darling you ok?” Rarity said running up to her friend.

“I’m alright Rarity but thank you, where did Applejack and Rainbow Dash go?” I said getting up to my hooves.

“Applejack ran back home followed by Dash... we should go find them that light came from over at sweet apple acres.” Rarity said helping up Fluttershy. “Your right I will go after them, Rarity and Fluttershy can you stay here and help everypony else they need the help, Spike stay with Rarity I will be right back.” Before anypony could object I ran off toward sweet apple acres.

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Location Unknown

Present time

Captain

“Ugh what the hell happened?... SHIT!... Computer run damage report.”

“Suit under immediate need of repair. Left leg intact. Right leg Damage 80%. Left arm Damage 50%. Right arm Damage 87%. Caution chest under heavy trauma medical assistance is highly recommended. Note you have been unconscious for 5 minutes possible brain damage highly recommended medical assistance.”

“Ok thanks” I need to find out what went on. But first I couldn’t see a thing so I turned on the night vision and noticed how damaged my leg really was I defiantly needed to get to a safe zone to fix that but it looks like I’m going to be limping home the gears do not want to move easy.

“Well looks like I won’t be able to do some run and gun today… computer give me a perimeter and get me a motion tracker up I don’t want anyone sneaking up on me.”

“I suggest that you leave this area immediately resent seismic activity has rendered this structure under heavy stress and possible cave in. we have about 15 minutes before structure collapse. Would you like me to send for a SOS?”

“Yes send out an SOS and let’s get moving!” I half ran for the entrance but even with night vision this place was black and hard to see. So I turned on helmet light to give out some more light but now I can feel the ground moving under me and see the ceiling start to crack and give way. “Shit Computer give me a timer because this looks like this is going to be a close one!”

“Done and I suggest using a Stim-Pack.”

“Inject one” I really could use that but right now I can feel the earth under me move and it’s not feeling pretty. I ran as fast as I could and I turned a corner to see the stairwell with light beaming down from it. I gunned for it, My leg was barley moving but I still ran even with one leg. The ceiling was caving in right behind my heels; the sound of explosions filled my ears as I ran for the gate. I don’t know if I will make it to the stairs, as I felt the ground under me gave way to a 20 ft. drop I jumped up reaching for the ledge where the stairs is. Clank! The sound of my metal hand landing its target. I quickly pulled myself up and ran up the stairs as fast as I could even if the ceiling was no longer chasing me I still ran up the steps. Then a bright blinding light exploded into my view… I fell to the ground unconscious.

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PonyVille, Equestria

Sweet Apple Acers

Twilights Pov

I ran as fast as I could up to the farm, only to be stopped by the royal guard. “What? Why are you here?” I managed to say gasping for air. I really need to go on runs more this was ridicules!

“Ma’am you cannot enter. This area is under lock down nopony is allowed to enter this zone please step back.” As I stepped back from the guard pony I noticed the apple family and Rainbow Dash to my right under an apple tree. As I got closer to them I could see Applejack and the rest of the Apple Family huddled and sobbing together.

“ Applejack what’s wrong?” all I got was a hoof pointing to right on her.

“Dear Celestia…” All I saw was a massive crater in the ground and a rock formation sticking out of what used to be a hill next to their house and barn… what was left of it. Whatever that light was it caused a massive crater and a shock wave that destroyed the barn and house and up rooted half the orchard.

“Applejack I’m very sorry…” I walked over to her and put my fore leg over her. All her family looked un-harmed except for Big Mac he had a large cut on his back and seemed to be bleeding from it as well.

“Big Mac are you ok?” I asked him but all I got was his head poking out of the group and he just shook his head and tilted it back down. “Big Mac your back is bleeding we should get you to the Hospital.” He looked at his back and the bent his head back into the groups embrace.

“Twilight come over here for a sec.” Rainbow called for me as I walked up I could see more of what was going on. “What you make of that” she pointed a hoof to a large metal thing that the guard ponies were caring out on a stretcher.

“I don’t know rainbow... But whatever it is it destroyed the apple farm in one hit”

“Yeah… when I got here AJ was still behind me and I saw Big Mac and Granny Smith get carried by some royal guards and set over here… but that thing was laying on the ground but not in the crater outside of it… do you think its aliens coming down to take over Equestria?” I couldn't help but facehoof at that statement.

“Rainbow I doubt it is aliens and did you see those white field tents there when you got here?”

“The white tents hmmm… Yeah there was two up but the others no.” I counted 8 tents with ponies with white lab coats on walking around them.

“I want to find out what’s in those tents but –“ I stopped mid-sentence to see Princess Celestia walk out of one talking to my… brother. When she seen me and Rainbow up on a hill out by the gate fence she looked at me for a solid two seconds before she disappeared in a flash of light. “What is she doing he-“ A bright light exploded behind us. As we turned around we seen Celestia standing right there looking at us with a frown. “Princess!?” I said as I bowed for her.

“Twilight you and your friends need to leave this place now and not speak of what you saw here to anypony.” She said that with a serious tone and a hint of anger. I was about to ask why when Shining came running up.

“BBBFF Wha-“ I was cut off by him

“Twilight you need to leave now and do what Celestia says.” He said with a frown and sadness.

“Princess I don’t understand what’s going on and what is that.” I pointed with a hoof to the metal object off in the distance.

“Twilight I don’t want to tell you again. You and your friends need to leave now.” She said that with such authority I couldn't help but bow my head and walk away. Rainbow followed me after giving Celestia a second look at. I walked back to the Apple family witch by now was sitting in a circle.

“Applejack we need to leave now we are no longer welcomed here.” I said with sadness.

“What in Tarnation you talking about this is still my home!” She yelled with anger and tears. Rainbow came to my defense.

“AJ we need to leave we can’t stay here anymore not until we are told we can.” There was a long silence

“Ok but where are we going to stay?” It was a good question.

“Let’s get out of here first and then find some place for you to stay until this is over.” I said with a tear welling up in my eye.

“Ok Twi… I’m very sorry for yellin at y’all.” Applejack said.

“It’s ok AJ it’s a very sad day today but let’s go now.” I said as we started walking back into town but I looked back to see the destroyed apple farm and thought to myself. What possibly could be that strong to destroy so much and have the princess take full control? ... Where is Pinkie?

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Shining Armor’s Pov

I watched my sister walk down the path back to town with a broken heart but realized I had to tell her to leave. This was too big to let her be here it was for her safety. “Sigh…. Princess please tell me we did the right thing?”

“Yes we did but we still have a situation at hoof and I want security tightened up… its times like this I keep a military still active.” Was this creature really that powerful that it threatens all of Equestria?

“Princess is this creature so powerful that it can destroy all of us?” I had to ask.

“Yes… Armor if I tell you what this creature strength is, you will never speak of it to anypony am I clear?” I had to know.

“Yes.”…

“ This creature is just one of many and can be capable of so much power… Whatever this creature wants done it gets done and will fight for whatever it is he believes to fight for… let’s just say discord was removed from his throne by these creatures thousands of years ago and after that they threatened Equestria and nearly destroyed ponykind… Ghastly Gorge was a major battle and what you see is the scar of the battle. And the Everfree wasn't always a dark forest.” I couldn't even think of such power not even by unicorn magic was that possible? Destroying so much and leaving a scar of such magnitude was unthinkable. “They will fight to the death for what they want and would kill every pony in Equestria a hundred times over before they stop.” She said that as if she was there.

“Princess have you seen these creatures first hoof before?” I asked

“I was young when I last seen them and Luna wouldn't remember them at all… Speaking of Luna she should be talking to him right now so before he wakes up I want him in the dungeon at the Castle now.” Celestia demanded.

“Yes your highness.” I saluted and walked away. With this new information sending Twilight away was the right thing to do.

Chapter 2: Friend or Foe
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Soulless World

Chapter 2: Friend or Foe

“Wake up“… “Wake up” It felt as if someone was whispering in my head

“What? Where am I?” I was in some kind of hallway I looked behind me. There was a door with a bright light seeping out of the cracks. I looked down the hallway to see another door with a bright light behind it as well.

“You are at the Crossroads of judgment and the talk we will have will determine your fate here.”

“What do you mean by that? And show yourself” I now regret asking as a deafening sound rose up in my head and a blue light came down from the ceiling and an Equine like creature came down flapping what appeared like… Wings? And it had a horn on its head as well. But it the creature was almost ghostly in appearance or like if fog took a shape, no define shape other than the body.

“What and who are you?”

“We could ask the same question to you.”

“I Am Human and you are?”

“We are the Princess of the Night and co-ruler of the land you are in”

I took a look around and looked back at her.

“Looks peachy... What you mean by said land? Because I see nothing other than this hallway.”

“You will see once you wake but will thee cause harm to our subjects and harm those of this world you are in.”

“I don't kill Innocent civilians I'm a soldier not a butcher.” I will kill if needed but she wont need to know that.

“Do you promise on your code of honor?” She said.

“Yes I do but I will not hesitate to destroy any threats to my Nation or its allies and my goal is not to harm civilians but take out all military threats.”

“Well we will take that as a yes… we have many other questions as we have not ever seen such a being as yourself.”

“As I see I won’t be leaving soon... I can answer any questions I deem answerable.”

“What World are you from?” She said with reason.

“I am from the Planet Earth of the Sol system.” She looked up at the night sky above us showing us the great expanse of the universe.

“You said a nation and her allies what nation are you from?”

I didn't know how I should answer that as it could be something to withhold, and dealing with a sentient race this is first contact with an unknown race.

“I am from the Nation of the Alaskan Federation, The government of the nation is a Federal Democratic Socialist Republic. It has 5 republics under one federal government of those republics. The republics are the Alaskan Federal Socialist Republic, British Columbian Socialist Republic, Yukon Socialist Republic, Nunavut Socialist Republic, and the Hawaiian Socialist Republic.” For a new nation the Federation expanded quickly.

“What are her Allies?” This question I needed to answer.

“Her Allies are the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, and the United States of America.” I said.

“Are your allies at war? Because there wouldn't any other reason for a military other than if there is a threat from another.” She said. I wonder if she has seen war.

“Yes and No we have enemies but not directly at war with them. We are in a Cold War with an highly religious Empire that wants to cleanse the world of anyone who thinks different and wish to kill all others who don’t follow their views and religious code.” Her head lowered some.

“What is the name of this Empire? And how did it come to power” She said in a softer tone.

“The Holy Empire of Man. The empire was a formation of smaller nations that followed the religion for reasons. They banded and gave power to the Religions Prophet. After that the Empire started to expand without much notice and other nations gave up sovereignty to it because they believed in the religion as well, soon after a period of 15 years the nation spanned across half a continent and the religion was seen worldwide.”

“How did this religion spawn?”

“The religion started in Southern Africa. The Prophet who claims he spoke to a god and told him to spread his promise to the people of Earth. He then began to Preach to the people in public about his promise. In other nations that wouldn't get anywhere but that nation was a poverty stricken nation and many people lived in fear of their own nation. So it gave hope in those that had none and quickly spread and soon he was given the title of Holy Prophet of Heaven. The religion spread like wildfire soon it was seen on every continent and created a world Church. The Church taught people to spread the religion and that if truly pure of the enlightenment and faithful that they will be ascended to rule over a new world and be able to mold it to there will and become gods themselves and rule there subjects in their universe. In order to achieve this they need to eradicate all none believers and clean Humanity."

I couldn't tell all easy but I could feel she had a crestfallen look on her face and she spoke in a sadder tone.

“What keeps your people from fighting this threat?” She said with her head down. “We are saddened and does your world hold any beauty or is it just full of death and war?”

“Yes our world holds many beauties and feats of engineering and architecture and natural wonders. And vast cities of people and buildings that scrape the sky and elevators that spans above the sky into space.” I said while moving my hands like i was showing it to her.

“You speak of it as you worship it.” Her tone brightened up some as she raised her head.

“In a way I do but not to the point of worship, awe-stricken is a more appropriate word.” I said while raising my hand up to my face some. “What else would you like to know?” I asked.

“That will be all for now as our sister would like to speak with you so it’s time to wake Human.” She said as the world i was in began to roll around me.

“Wha-“

I was immediately thrown into reality to find myself sitting on a stone floor in a caged room, and I looked out the cage door to see a white horse like creature with golden armor on and a blue mane and a horn… Wait a Horn?

Chapter 3: Trust
View Online

Soulless World

Chapter 3: Trust

A white horse like creature stood right in front of me. I clicked on my audio set to be able to speak with it.

“Do you Speak Russian?” I said in Russian. It just looked at me in horror and took a step back. “Do you speak German?” again I was greeted with the same look. Maybe it speaks English? “Do you speak English?” again it looked at me in horror but now it’s mouth was practically on the floor. “Well it’s a start.” I said in English, I switched off the speaker. ”Computer does your holographic projector still work?”

“Yes would you like me to project AF Greeting?” The female voice said in my helmet.

“Yes since we don’t have Earth greeting.” My helmet had a little camera on the side that can record anything and project holographic images.

The camera started projecting a blinking blue light out to him and then turned into a screen of a blue field it stopped about one foot from my helmet. His face turned to absolute fear usually their faces should be of curiosity but this will work out I guess. On the screen an image popped up the symbol of all AF forces. The coat of arms a navy blue shield with to silver swords crossed behind it and gold star in the center. After rotating the image for a few seconds it then showed an average soldier in his combat uniform. The screen was then replaced by the Flag of my nation and two others the US flag and the Soviet flag waving in the wind. The image then showed AF troops helping people construct shelters and teaching children in schools. The words “We are friends we fight for freedom and peace.” Rolled past the screen, the video then shut off

I looked at the unicorn like creature and looked at his face to see it still in shock. I chuckled to myself and flipped on my speech. “Well that’s it folks.”

“Indeed.” A new female voice sounded and walking up to the unicorn was a very tall version of him but with wings and to her left was a slightly shorter dark blue version of her.

“So you do speak English.” I said with sarcasm in my voice.

“Silence Human!” her voice doubled in a yell so loud it snapped the guard out of his trance so he could cover his ears with his hooves. “What brings you to My Kingdom?!”

“Classified” She got real close to the bars of the cage and peered her face to it

“You better tell me or I will destroy you and rip you apart.” Her voice was of ice but didn’t affect me. If I didn’t have my helmet on my face would have stayed the same but to the guard he was looking at her with fear in his eyes.

“Classified and even if you were an Alliance nation I wouldn’t be able to tell you my name anyways.” I could tell she could feel my glare I sent right back at her.

“So be it, But you will remain here as a prisoner of Equestria.” I have the right to if needed to act on my own if cut off from contact with Leviathan. So I did what most people with a death wish would do. I stuck my face right in front of hers and said. “Are you going to shoot rainbows at me?”

She glared at me directly into the eye when the one from my dream came into view behind her. “Sister we have spoken with him and he would pose no threat endless we attempt to harm him.” The blue one spoke with care.

“Luna I cannot let him go his kind has threatened Equestria before and taken countless lives of ponies.” She turned to her sister still with the rage she had on me but a tad bit calmer. “Shining Armor what do you think on this human’s fate?” the white one turned to face who I presume to be Shining Armor to respond to her question.

“I-I uh think we should keep him here in the Castle and hold him prisoner until we think he can be released.” Maybe scaring him wasn’t a great idea.

“You will pose no threat to Equestria will you?” Luna came up to the gate with big eyes. I remained quiet.

“Luna, Shining leave us.” the other two turned and left the hallway they were in. “Why are you here…” her voice sounded saddened I could sense she was in pain of something from the past.

“Mistake I just woke up here after running for my life.” I joked at her. She made an audible sigh.

“You are the first Human to be in Equestria for three thousand years the last time a human was here there was a portal to this world that was built for the free passage of both our species… it seems I missed one.” This information started making sense if you told me two days ago Earth was visited by magical talking horses I would call you a crazy and walk away but seeing it and matching it to mythological creatures it made sense.

“Why not send me back? I got a duty to attend to.” made sense to me.

“The gate that I missed is what brought you here and it was old and without repair as a result when you arrived the gate exploded and caused a great earthquake… I’m more surprised you lived.” She said.

So now I have no way back and something tells me that someone knew this would happen and wanted to destroy it before it added more problems to the world. “Understood.” She just looked at me with a blank face.

“Tell me more about your world.” She said in the same sad tone.

“You saw the vid there is the basic of it.” She didn’t look amused

“I want to know your world’s history and its achievements.” She… was interested? One moment ago she wanted to destroy me and now she wants to hear the story of Humanity?

“Well it’s not a pretty one… Humanity has always been plagued by war and hate.” She looked even more saddened. “But it has beauty in it as well; I can’t give you a whole Human History lesson because it’s too long and I don’t trust you.”

“I understand and why do you remain in the cage I know you can rip the bars off.” She was right although my hands have the same strength as they would without the metal gloves the arms have strength that can easily rip those bars off.

“I could but don’t want to escape yet.” I have nowhere to go anyways.

“Even thousands of years ago humans where still unpredictable I can see that it hasn’t changed… Human I have one last question to ask… may I ask it?”

“Flattered and ask away I’m not going anywhere.” I said with normal tone.

“Is your soul good or evil?" She said looking at the floor.

“Neither” I plainly stated.

“Pardon?” Her face shot up to mine with question.

“Neither… my soul is not good or evil its neither, I save as many people as I can. But if I’m ordered to abandon the weak to save others I will do it without question... Even if it means certain death for them.” She looked back at me and stared directly into my eyes I swear that she can see through this faceplate.

“A silver lining a saint but also a demon… I’m afraid you will to stay in this cell until I can think this over.” I didn’t realize it but it was very late the clock on my visor screen showed it 11:49PM.

“May I have your name miss…” I asked.

“Celestia, Princess Celestia and you met my sister Princess Luna I must go now your fate will be decided in the morning.” Must be night here what a big surprise English speaking horses and magical unicorns what next rainbow rivers in a city made of clouds?

Princess Luna’s Pov

“What could be taking my sister so long? I hope she doesn’t hurt him…” why was I so worried about his safety?

“Ahem Princess may I speak freely?” Shining said.

“Yes Shining what is it” I said curious of what he had to say.

“Do you know anything about Humans?” he was obviously scared with having him in the Castle even if he was in the dungeons underneath.

“Not much other than myth and legend, why you ask?” I said.

“To tell you the truth I’m afraid of the human if he wanted he could kill us all and harm our loved ones.” Shining said.

“He won’t kill us and I doubt he could kill all of us anyways… when I was in his dreams I could sense he was afraid of this new world and very confused as well.” He may not show it but he was scared and frightened to be lost in this world… I wanted to hug him and tell him it would be ok… I know how he feels.

“Well what if he tries to escape and destroys the castle?” He said.

“He won’t kill anypony.” I half yelled at him.

“What was that thing that formed out of his face it was like a moving picture?” Shining said.

That was really interesting what kind of magic was he using for that but his world was beautiful and sad to think that it holds so much despair. “I don’t know but we can only hope we can comprehend the concept of it.” Just as we finished Celestia opened the doors and walked in. “Sister! What happened?”

“Well he will stay in the dungeon for tonight until I can think about it some more I can hope to help him as he can’t go back to his world but I fear he might hurt somepony, he may not know it but he has already hurt ponies with just his arrival.”

“Well I will send extra guards to his cell until you decide your highness.” Shining said while walking up to her.

“Shining Please when it’s just us call me Celestia and you are technically part of the family, and tell me how is Cadence I haven’t heard from her in a while?” Celestia said.

“She is good, but this isn’t the situation at hoof.” Shining said putting a hoof to his chin.

“Yes sister what should his fate be?” I said.

“We will see what he is capable of in the morning but for now I must rest.” She walked to the door for her tower.

"Shining I'm going to contact Cadence she should be here to help with him." I said as I walked to the door for my tower.

“Yes Princess Luna and may I have permission to speak to him?” He asked.

“Good and yes find out more maybe you can get him to open up some since you are both military." I told him before I opened up my door.

Captain’s Pov

I decided I would stay one night under captive situation so fare looks like the guards keep their distance. I couldn’t stop thinking about humanity’s past that with the 20000 year old citadels that dates back farther than the first known human civilization. The guards must think I’m asleep because they began to relax some and I could hear them whispering to one another. I began humming a tune I heard while I was in Russia the name was Katyusha this tune always kept me calm when trying to go to sleep overseas. I began to think back to before I was in the Military actually right before I joined I was ten and I remembered the park I was at with my mother she sat at a bench reading a newspaper and I played in the grass by a tree less than four ft. away, I remember the blue sky with little clouds out and a warm sun, then I heard some yelling and seen my mom get up I could not see her face. Then a bright light and my hearing was gone but it was dark to… “What?” I said as I was brought back to the reality.

“Hey can you hear me?!” Someone was yelling at me.

I flipped on my speakers. “What is it you want?” I said as I put my hand up to reach for nothing more as a stretch.

“I wanted to talk with you and talk about military stuff.” The one called Shining asked

“Right I'm stuck in a world of talking ponies. what next? A giant Rainbow Laser gun? Anyways I suppose you have a lot of questions… ask away.” I said sitting up on the little bed i was on.

“Well for starters what is your rank?” I was about to reply when my computer put up a small window showing my mechanical damage and need of repair.

“Well I’m a Captain in the AF Navy.” I started by taking off my gloves and detaching the metal mechanical right arm.

“What are you Doing?” he seemed to be taken back by me detaching my right arm only to have my real arm under it.

“I’m doing repair.” He watched as I took off my other arm.

“You have no fur?” I examined it seeing the hydraulics are damaged and need repair and the armor is damaged as well nothing my repair Drone won’t fix.

“Yes.” I still had my helmet on to examine the damage by now I had my arms off and laying on the side but in order for me to get it all off I needed to take my torso parts off which would be easy if I had a heavy robotic arm that can carefully take it off and detach the chest from the back piece.

I laid down on my stomach and bang the sound of the metal falling off sounded and the chest piece was laying on the ground.

“Wow that sounds heavy.” He said.

I remained silent, I laid on my back and with another Clank. The Back piece fell down revealing five metal rods from the armor piece, I stood back up to take off my leggings and the rest of my armor pieces like my metal boots.

”What are those?” He pointed a hoof in the direction of the nerve spikes.

I just looked at him and then back down to the back plate on the floor. “Tech... heavy well earned tech.” I took the leggings off quick. Now fully undressed with nothing on other than my under armor suit that covers most of my body.

I took off my top and traded it for a white t-shirt and threw over my Navy digital camo jacket, Black, gray, and navy blue in a digital pattern showed with my AF flag patch on the right shoulder.

“So that was in your back and that wasn't your skin?” He said

I looked up and seen his face as I pulled off my leggings and changed to my digital camo pants. “Yup it was and this is my skin.” I pulled up my sleeve and showed him my arm.

“wow this is all very… new but why so much armor?” He said.

I pulled out my Kevlar combat vest and strapped it on with no pouches the vest was bare. “I’m a Soldier.” His jaw looked like someone broke it to the left.

“But not even I use that much clothing and armor do all soldiers in your world use that armor?” He half yelled.

“No I’m special.” I was starting to get a tad bit annoyed by some the questions I’m not much of a talker.

“How old are you?” He asked.

“Classified.”

“What is your name then.” He asked.

“Classified.” I realized I haven’t taken off my helmet yet so I turned off my speaker. “Computer I am logging offline.”

“Good Hunting Captain.” The computer voice said before turning off.

I pulled off my helmet and set it down on top of my pile of armor I had in the corner and turned around to see the little pony. “So he does have a face… What should I call you then?”

I thought about it I never have told my name to anyone before except for one person but I had to live with her for two months and she taught me a lot about life and to be able to communicate with civilians better. “Call me by my rank that’s what the others call me anyways.”

“Well Mr. Captain do you have any family?” He asked.

I looked him in the eye. “No… do you?”

“Yes I have my parents who reside in this city and my sister in Ponyville its South of here… and a wife Princess Cadence but I haven’t seen her in a month since I needed to come back to Canterlot to do my job.” He said looking down at the ground.

He seemed to be sad that he hasn't seen his wife with his job. “Tell me what your job is and what your sister is like?”

“Ha I guess it seems fair since you told me your job and rank somewhat, well I’m Captain of the Royal Guard and I command all the guard from Canterlot. And my sister well she is a special pony she is the personal student of Princess Celestia and runs the Library in Ponyville. She loves books and reads like there is no tomorrow.” He said putting a hoof to his chest.

I could tell he was very proud of his sister. “So you know where I exploded from?” I asked.

“Yes I do but that is Classified.” He said with a smirk at me.

“Ok you got me but why are you really here bugging me?” I asked him.

“I’m to watch you as long as the princess says. So yeah no luck on that one... are you hungry?” He said.

I haven’t thought about it but yes I was very hungry. “Yeah I am but i got food with me.” I Pulled out an MRE and my canteen and I took a swig with it.

“What’s in the container?” he asked pointing to the canteen.

I looked back at him. “Water. H2o the basis for all organic life." I said.

“Water what can you do with just water? What about pancakes? That’s what I’m going to order.”

"You will see.” I had about a week’s supply of MREs in my war pack, I opened up the MRE and pulled out all the contents and then poured some water into the bag after about a second it started boiling. “Tedaa! Boiling water to cook my food.” His eyes were wide as he stared at the bag.

“Ok I will be right back to make an order I trust you will be fine until then?”

“Yes I will and don’t worry I like your prison it has a bed.” Hey it was better than sitting in a prison cell in Korea.

“I will ask later why that is confusing.” He said.

As he walked away I went to my pack and found my Holo-pad and began reading some last minute details on the war back home. As I was reading I heard movement from my pack and then an audible. “OWCH!” I carefully opened up the top latch and flipped the cover off only to be assaulted by a pink blur.

“Oh Hiya what you doing on the ground silly?” Came the energetic response of a poofy pink pony.

“Freeze!” I yelled pulling my pistol and aiming it at the pink pony.

“Oh silly me I’m Pinkie!” She had a huge smile on her face somewhat scary… very scary.

“How?” The logic was killing me.

“Well I seen you come into town but you were busy trying to run so I jumped in your big back pack to give you a surprise, WelcometoPonyvillestrangealien invitation to a PARTY!” Streamers shot out from behind her as she jumped into the air.

Why in all the great Earth, Why did I get stuck here? “How did you get into my pack and how did you just do that?” I asked Still aiming my weapon at her.

“With my Party Cannon of course Silly!” she reached behind her and pulled out a cannon the same size as her without the poofy hair seemingly out of nowhere. The Cannon then blasted out streamers onto the wall and making a Welcome to Equestria Alien Hero Party banner on the wall. My brain cannot comprehend such magnitude of her law breaking Physics.

“What’s going on I Heard screaming?!” Shining was back with five guards.

“Hi Twilight’s BBBFF you just arrived in time for a PARTY!” Pinkie yelled out.

“Pinkie How in Equestria did you get in here!?” Shining said.

I lowered my pistol back into it’s holster. "Easy I was in his saddle bag when he arrived." She said.

Just as she finished Princess Luna walked up behind Shining. “Why is everypony running around? Human are you ok?”

“Yes I am thanks for asking." I said.

“Pinkie why are you here?” She asked.

“To Party silly Luna!” Pinkie yelled out.

Luna’s face went blank. “Well if we are to have a Party I suggest we do it some other time Shining you may leave and Pinkie… You may stay in the guest room until tomorrow…and Human can we get you some blankets?” She asked

I looked at her with confusion. “Is it custom here to treat your prisoners with such hospitality?” I said.

“No... but you are the first human here that is recorded and it’s our duty you’re comfortable.” She said.

I nodded “I will be fine.” She just stared at me for a moment, I could see her eyes weld up some. Why does she care so much? I went over to the bed and sat down picking up my holo-pad.

“See you in the morning Captain.” Luna looked behind her to see Shining looking at me.

“Your name is Captain?” She asked.

“No but it’s something you can call me for now.” They both walked away, Lucky me they didn't know what a firearm is because I still have all my weapons other than my bayonet and combat knife. Why do they show me hospitality and hostility? Too much for one day I guess.

Chapter 4: An Imperial Response
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Soulless World

Chapter 4: An Imperial Response

Washington D.C.

United States

April 22, 2066

“Mr. President we cannot hold back with this information! We should attack NOW!” The secretary of defense yelled slamming his hands on the black table.

“But if we attack now we could cause an international incident that could escalate too far with the Empire.” The secretary of state was very troubled by the information.

“What we need is to confront them about it and ask them for more peace talks and cool the situation down.” The Vice President was very peaceful and optimistic about politics.

The reason why the president chose him for a running mate in the elections. “What y’all are telling me is that the Imperial Military not only invented a weapon that can harness this new form of radiation but also found their gateway to ascension?” The president was holding his hands together looking down at a piece of paper. “The Empire has the technology to destroy us hundreds of time over… and you want me to act without the consent of the USSR or the AF, AND! To top that invade Spain a member of the United European States?”

“Yes because if we don’t the Empire will attack them and kill millions more and gain the ability to activate the warheads.” The Secretary of Defense said. The room all looked at the president adding to his stress.

“What’s the status of the archway they found?” The President asked.

“We sent in a full American squad of Hell Knights the Russians don’t know anything about it. And it appears deactivated and we are in control of it.” The Secretary of Defense said.

“Damn it… I want that place destroyed then get rid of it because they will be back for it.” Even after Russia saved the US from total death and gave the US back its will to be involved in the world stage we still can’t help but hold stuff back from them. “We will not invade Spain and after this meeting is over I’m going to give the Russians a call and arrange a meeting.” Just as the gray haired man known as the president got done talking a buzzard on the desk began to ring. “Yes what is?”

“Mr. President you need to turn on the news…” The mechanical voice said.

********

“I am reporting from the outskirts of Madrid Spain where just twenty minutes ago the city fell under heavy bombardment from five low orbit bombers dropping without warning! The city was then surprised even more by three Harbinger Mobile Fortresses flown in by a major invasion force of Imperial Troops!” The news reporter was pointing back to a city with three large humps surrounded by fire.

“We cannot stay here any longer we need to move now!” a voice from off camera yelled at the reporter.

“I’m being told that it’s no longer safe here for me to stay!” She yelled out when a fleet of helicopters and jets flew right above the crew of reporters. “Are they friendly?” at the blink of an eye the sky was blackened by missiles and deafened by the sound of rockets and explosions landing on the city and three walking fortresses.

After two minutes of the non stop barrage of rockets a bright light exploded from the center of the scene a light brighter than the sun followed by a massive black cloud in the middle of the city with only two fortresses standing and a burning city.

“John you ok!?” The reporter screamed yelled out running in front of the camera. The scene in the distance was unimaginable the sky was raining fire down and fighter jets blackening the sky with a massive dog fight and tens of them exploding and raining down on the dead city with the streets filled with gun fire and helicopters fighting. It was Pandora’s Box out there not a single tower was left standing.

The camera was cut off by a man sitting at a news desk with his face covered by his hands.

“Madrid, Spain under Attack by Imperial Forces thousands presumed dead in first hour of attack!” the bottom of the screen read.

*******

“Mr. President?” Secretary of State asked as he watched the big TV on the wall.

The TV then showed a very large yellow symbol when a soldier entered the room with a suit case. “Mr. President a Launch has been detected.” The soldier said.

The old man grabbed the suit case and opened it to see a screen with a blue outline of the world seeing a single yellow symbol in the middle of France. “Get up Satellite eyes Now!” he yelled out.

After about a minute the TV on the wall showed an aerial live view of the city, It showed more gunships moving in from the south and more retreating for the north. Then the screen went white.

“Did we lose connection?” The Vice president asked rising from the table.

“No we didn't that is confirmed use of one Strategic Nuclear missile.” The soldier on a computer in the room said.

“I want troops in Europe now and Ryan get in a plane you’re going to Geneva to start a ceasefire agreement with the UN and set up a defense around France.”

“Sir you have a phone call.” The intercom sounded.

“It can wait right now I want a video feed up.” The president said into it.

“Sir it’s the Russian President.” The president grabbed the phone from the soldier.

“I take you are watching the same thing I was?”

“Yes we have a sub in the area.” The Russian President said. “I have ordered an emergency council session here in Moscow I suggest you do the same because this is just the first step to a full war.”

“Yes I understand I’m sending troops to Spain right now and Brazil.” The American president said.

“Why send to Brazil?” The Russian president asked.

The President defiantly did not want to discuss it more. “We have reason to believe that they will attack there next.” The president said.

“I see well get defenses up but Europe is our main priority. I must go now.” The phone went silent.

“Mr. President what are we going to do?” The Secretary of Defense asked.

“Destroy that gate then we move troops to Europe and assist their war.”

“Mr. President we have a visual.” The soldier said.

He turned to the giant TV on the wall. “Good get it up.” What they saw was very unsuspected the last two Harbingers where still standing and moving around unaffected by three nuclear bombs exploding on their heads.

“Satellites show reinforces inbound to that location and paratroopers have been spotted in Rome, Berlin, and a beach landing in Marseilles.” The soldier said.

“It’s a full scale invasion… I want troops there now and lower us to DEFCON 2.” The neon sign on the wall moved down two spaces out of five now glowing orange it showed the weight of the situation. “Men if this isn't the end of days it sure does feel like it.”

******

“Why are we going to let them not tell us where the Captain is?” An angry Russian yelled at his comrades in a relaxation room.

“Quiet down you idiot this is suspicious but we can’t do anything about it Archer.” A soothing female voice said to the angered Russian, her voice had a thick Moscow accent but was soft as well.

“Yeah your right but all we know is he left on a solo mission and then the next report I intercepted was he vanished, AND to top that an all American squad was moved to the same place.” Archer said.

A man with a Stetson hat popped his head up from behind a table. “Wow now y’all don’t think us Americans are responsible now do you?” The man said with a thick Texan accent.

Archer looked at his Texan comrade. “No cowboy I don’t, I just think it’s very suspicious.”

The Texan moved towards them with three bottles. “Well I don’t know but have a beer, Want one Alexa?” he moved a beer to the woman.

“No thank you but thanks, we can’t let this leave this room but I’m almost positive that what he found is a portal to another world… the world the Temple of light wanted to control for their so called Ascension to god hood the pilgrimage of Man needs to take.” The woman said.

“How did you find this out Alexa?” A man with a eastern European accent said. Previously on the couch he walked up to the group and grabbed the beer the Texan was offering to the woman.

“Captain and I exchanged helmet cam codes.” She said looking at her wrist PDA.

“Wow when did you get that?” The Texan said with the slight hint of jealousy.

“Last month. and no we aren't close we just thought it would be better since I am the second highest rank here.” She said.

The Texan relaxed a bit and let out a sigh. “What is it Comrade? You jealous that the Captain got Alexa’s cam code?” Sasha let out a big laugh. “Haha that was joke Cowboy.”

“Ha ha very funny Sasha I’m not jealous. I don’t have any feelings like that to anyone.” The Texan said nervously rubbing the back of his neck.

Sasha started laughing even harder now. “HAHA I never said that you liked Alexa!” Sasha fell on the ground with a blushing Moscow woman and a Texan with his hand on his face.

“And you wonder why we never get the cool missions... Alexa what did you see?” Archer said

“I saw his whole battle and it was very impressive but then when he got into the temple his cam started to falter then there was a CQB in the main room after that he ran into another room and then it went to static.” Alexa said.

“Well we won’t get him back just sitting here we need to move and find him.” Archer said.

“We will and will help him in any way he needs but it will have to wait until we find out what really happened and keep it between us four it’s a private mission no documents and no politics.” All four soldiers put there right fist in a pile between them.

“YEE-HAA!” Cowboy yelled jumping up some.

“No Comrade left behind!” Archer said lifting his had up into the air.

“FOR VODKA!” Sasha Yelled throwing his hand into the air.

“for the Captain.” Alexa said finally throwing her fist in the air.

******

Rome is burning and the sky is black with no sunlight showing through. The clouds rain fire down on the dead city of millions.

A city built to glory destroyed rebuilt and destroyed again without mercy without warning. Streets filled with the dead. Rivers flow with blood of the innocent.

Madrid is burning and the sky is black with no sunlight showing through. The clouds rain fire down on the dead city of millions. Millions dead in the blink of an eye, streets with the shadowy image of the dead blasted on the walls of buildings too forever stand as the image of their death through nuclear fire.

Marseilles is burning and the sky is black with no sunlight showing through. the clouds rain fire down on the dead city of millions. A city of peace and culture now holds the art of blood and death in their halls of glory burning.

*****

“I’m sorry captain but I can’t let you got back… you suffered enough, time for some peace.” Celestia sat in her room silently sobbing to herself from the images she just seen.

Chapter 5: Ghosts
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Soulless World

Chapter 5: Ghosts

I felt a slight breeze brush across my face. I threw up my hands to my face covering it as I opened my eye to see a bright blue sky. I sat up realizing I’m in a white shirt and tan cargo shorts. “Where am I?” I asked to no one in particular looking over the area I was in a Tropical sandy beach like from the pictures.

“You are at peace right now a well-deserved peace.” A familiar female voice said.

“Who are you and where am I?” I turned to see a tall middle aged woman with brown hair and almost glowing blue eyes.

“You have grown up so much.” She said smiling at me.

“Who are you?” I asked her.

“You wouldn’t remember me anyways but I remember you.” She looked at me with a warm smile.

“I don’t understand at all. This is just another dream.” I said.

She frowned at me. “It’s time for you to wake up. Take care and don’t throw away what is good we will meet again.” With that I was wrapped up in a wave of water and thrown back into reality.

*******

“Hey wake up you have a meeting with the Princesses! Try to look your best before the Princesses.” A guard yelled at me while splashing me with water on my face.

I got up and put on my helmet to check for news. “Computer do you have any news on the current situation?” I asked.

“No. You need to establish a connection with Leviathan before I can get status update.” it said.

I had just remembered the two folders that were uploaded into my helmets computer. “Give me the two folders that where uploaded yesterday before current situation.”

“One moment… You have two new folders ready for you to read.” I opened the first folder and skimmed threw it. All it seemed to be was the history of the Earth and all known knowledge of Human history.

“Hey Human you have a meeting in ten minutes.” I pulled off my helmet. I will need to read threw that later. I got my uniform on and put my vest on under the jacket for concealment.

As I walked down these huge hallways being escorted by two guard ponies with lances on their sides pointing up. We approached a huge golden door with two guards standing on each side.

“We are here to see the princesses.” Stated the guard on my right. The door was pushed open to reveal the two princesses I met last night and a new one on the left of Celestia standing next to her is Shining Armor.

“Welcome Captain we are here to have a clean moment of civility and a talk of friendliness without any hostilities or threats… Guards leave us.” The moment she said that all the guards other than Shining left the room.

As I stepped forward to get closer to them I stopped when the princess of the left stood up and began to walk to me. “May I see your hand please?” she said in a very calm voice.

I raised my hand for her to examine. She lowered her horn onto my palm and closed her eyes when her horn began to glow.

She flinched back some and opened her eyes with sadness in them. “I’m very sorry for your suffering and the world you came from.

“Did you just read my mind?" I said. I was concerned and almost offended.

“No I read your heart and its memories.” A tear formed in her eye but was quickly blinked away. She turned and walked back to her throne seat.

“I have made my mind up since you will be staying here in Equestria you can stay here as a guest and will be permitted to stay here in the castle.” Celestia sounded like she wanted me to become one of her subjects.

“I am a citizen of the Alaskan Federation and a member of its Federal Navy I will not be staying here i must get back to my world.” Her face was disappointing of my choice.

“I’m sure we can work something out for the better.” She said looking at Princess Luna.

“It’s better for me to leave and find a way to get back to my world and get back to what I do.”

“I’m sure we can have you stay here in the castle for a few more days to get to learn each other?” She said. I am in need of a place to stay for a couple days to repair my suit and learn more of this world.

“I will stay for two days to get repairs done on my suit. But I won’t be staying any longer than that and will not become a resident here as well.”

“You need the rest and to find peace you have suffered enough please stay?” The pink princess said with concern.

“I don’t know who you are can I have your name?” I asked as politely as i could.

“I am princess Cadence. Luna and Celestia are my aunts and this stallion here is my husband Shining Armor.” She leaned in and nuzzled him.

"Well Princess Cadence I am fine and i can handle my self." I said.

“We have been asking you many questions but I’m sure you have more for us would you care to ask?” Celestia stood up with a smile and walked over to the long table at the side of the room.

“Those questions will come as I see fit but I do have a few at this moment what is your government and your status on this world?” I decided to take a seat across from her at the table.

“Equestria is an Absolute Monarchy under the Canterlot throne and I guess in your worlds terms we are the only superpower of this world economically. And if you’re asking if we have a massive military the answer is yes we hold the largest military known but we use it as a defensive move and to help those that need help and relief from disaster.”

“So you must have a queen or king here right?” I asked.

“Not anymore me and my sister rule together we have kept the nation secure and at peace for hundreds of years... until now" She said almost ashamed.

This concerned me I have been in an absolute monarchist nation and they don’t take kindly to my nation or any other nation that they don’t control. “Do your people have representatives? Like a parliament?”

“No but I take pride in giving them what they want and listen to them when they ask. And before you ask I know of Democratic nations and other representative government types but they have not worked here in this world only Monarchies and Feudal societies reign in the nations here.” Fun I love dealing with hotshot royals.

“How many nations are on this world and what is this world’s name?”

“Solace. The world we are on right now is named Solace and there are twenty nations with smaller tribes and city-states surrounding them.” Twenty nations fun must be empires each.

“Thank you I have no other questions at this time.” She looked at the clock and back at me.

“I have another meeting in ten minutes a very important one at that. Luna will show you to your room for now enjoy your stay here and I hope you will stay longer.” She stood up and walked out of the room.

“Follow me Captain. Me and Cadence will show you there.” Luna and Cadence stood up and walked to a door opposite of the main door.

“Shining I will be back in a few minutes.” She nuzzled him again before motioning me to follow.

********

As we walked down a long hallway with huge arched windows overlooking what appeared to be a city built on the side of a mountain. I couldn't help but feel happy that I landed in this world. But I also felt great sorrow at the image of the beautiful city and its surrounding land. A sorrow that if the Templars found another lost portal the amount of death that will reign down on these ponies that wouldn't even be able to defend themselves properly.

“What a beautiful world…” I whispered to myself looking out the window at the scenery.

Someone noticed my slip up.“Canterlot is a beautiful city but is only a fraction of Equestria’s glory.” Cadence has been watching me since she seen me about an hour ago.

“Almost makes me want to see it all… almost.” She turned her head to face me directly.

“I’m sure if you wanted to we could show you it all.” Tempting.

“Sounds nice but no I still need to get home and get back to the fight.” We approached another big door but not as big as the other.

“Well we are here your room we hope you enjoy it.” Luna said as she opened the door.

I walked in and looked around amazed by the beauty of the wall and the color of the room.

“Thank you... it’s nice.” I reached out over the bed and felt the silk covers. Just amazing. “I have never felt silk like this before… it’s amazing.”

Luna nodded to Cadence. “It would be nice if you could stay with us for longer than a few days maybe… get to see the world we live in enjoy some… peace?” So persistent on me for what?

“I will think about it but don’t get your hopes up… and if the reason you want me to stay is for tech info or for some gain. You’re wasting your time.” I turned to face her. "I don,t wish to stay longer than needed and your concern for me is being wasted I am fine and combat ready anytime anywhere so I am fine."

She turned away from me with her head hung low. “I want to help you I can see your pain even threw all that on the outside your pain shows.” With that she walked out and Luna turned to me.

“I was lost once and I hurt many ponies and I’m still a little lost but you can’t be cruel to yourself maybe you will learn something.” She turned to leave to the door as well.

“Wait!… Be proud of what you got here and treat it as it’s the last time you see it because someday it may be your last.” With that she nodded and walked out the door.

As I explored the room more I found a library in the room a small one but one the least. Many of the books were in a foreign language but I noticed that some were in perfect English. I found one book called 'A Brief history of Equestria' I opened it and began to read the contents first chapter. ‘7000 years of Equestria and its past’. I sat there reading for a while until I noticed it was getting dark out the window. “Well I better take a shower.” I walked over to bathroom and looked in the mirror. I found some towels and started the water running.

*******

I got out of the shower with my towel on and walked over to the bed putting my pistol under the pillow. That’s when I turned around to see a figure standing by the door. It wasn't a pony but looked more human but was very hard to tell when it was just a shadow. “Who are you!?” I demanded instinctively pulling my gun up to face it.

“You don’t remember me?” I pulled the hammer back.

“Who are you I won’t ask again.” It walked forward some to be in the light.

“You killed me remember? And I killed your soul and all those brats that you found and hung them from street lamps.” I couldn't quite make out the face but I could see it smiling.

BOOM! The .45 projectile shot out the barrel of the hand gun and phased threw the shadow and into the wall behind it and threw that wall into another wall before ending in a big hole of the white brick.

“Still you can’t bring them back no matter how much you shoot me.” With that he vanished and the door smashed open with Celestia in fear.

“What was that!?” I lowered my gun back onto the bed.

I sat down on the bed with my hands over my face. “Nothing just a miss-fire.” She levitated the gun off the bed and quickly brought it to her face staring into the barrel.

“STOP! DON’T IT POINT LIKE THAT!” she quickly pulled it away before she pulled the trigger firing another shot into the darkness out the open window.

“I-I uh will be taking this and uh… hiding it for now so no pony gets hurt.” I grabbed it and dropped the clip and un-chambered the round in it.

“She pulled the body of the gun away from me and set it on the table. With that she noticed that all I was wearing was a towel around my waist. She blushed after looking me over more without thinking.

“I uh… am very sorry for intruding but I will take this weapon until you leave… uhm yeah.” With that she turned and walked out the door with the gun.

Luna landed on the balcony right outside my room. “What happened?”

“Your sister will tell you but now I got to get dressed... tomorrow I will show you the human race.” She too blushed and nodded and flew out into the darkness. I heard a guard outside my room talking to someone else. I got my pants and under shirt on and laid under the covers of the bed.

“Damnit What is happening to me?" Rubbing my hands on my face. "Why now... Why must i start to lose my head now?" With that I fell asleep in the soft bed.

Ok sorry i haven't gotten this out sooner any mistakes let me know and I will apply them Im still getting used to my writing on my Computer and have been very busy with stuff in school and my free time is very limited right now. Thank you for reading this little adventure that I am working with.