Claws of Equestriaby Oiram_BalefireChaptersChapter 1Chapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 4Chapter 1The mighty CLAW machines, Maximus and Brutus, released destruction upon the incoming ISI soldiers that were alerted of David Mason and Mike Harper's presence. Maximus dealt with any incoming ISI soldiers on the rooftops with his deadly grenade launcher and mounted mini-gun. Constant ISI soldiers continued to flood into the area in an attempt to capture or kill the J-SOC soldiers. But their efforts were futile with Maximus reigning explosives and bullets upon them. Brutus was able to efficiently deal with any ISI soldiers that could have been trying to advance towards Section and Harper. His deadly flamethrower, if it didn't burn his enemies to death, kept them at bay for his mini-gun to butcher down. Despite being Artificial Intelligence, Section could easily take control of the pair and direct them as to where they should be shooting. He directed Brutus outside where he would be able to give cover fire for the two J-SOC soldiers. He used his added ability of the flamethrower to scorch the ground troopers whilst Section and Harper waited for Salazar to arrive with evacuation. He then switched to Maximus where he Section manually targeted the enemy drone that was distracted by the presence of him and Harper. Firing the deadly grenade launcher twice, the drone malfunctioned and crashed into the building behind it. Maximus and Brutus's mounted mini-guns slaughtered any troopers that got too close to the J-SOC. An RPG missile zoomed just over Brutus, whom was distracted with the ground support from the ISI. Section spotted this immediately and used Maximus's mini-gun to unleash a sea of bullets into the RPG wielding soldier. He dropped dead quickly. The fire-fight between the ISI and the CLAWs continued for a good few minutes, with the CLAWs dominating the small battlefield with their hardened armour and powerful weaponry. The sound of a jeep engine was suddenly heard and two jeeps with mounted machine guns on the back arrived along with one friendly drone. It was Salazar. He had come to Section and Harper's salvation. They quickly entered the jeeps, Section taking over the driver seat from Crosby while he jumped into shotgun. Harper clutched control of the machine gun and they were quickly on their way to find a way out of the city. Maximus and Brutus, only serving as a distraction to the ISI, were left behind so that the J-SOC soldiers could escape. As Section drove further away from the two CLAWs, he lost the signal that connected him to the two CLAW machines. They were back to being automatic…and left alone to the demise of the incoming ISI machinery and soldiers. Enemy ISI drones whizzed over the two CLAW machines while more soldiers and enemy jeeps passed through to try and catch up to the fleeing J-SOC soldiers. However, the foot soldiers were unprepared for the sudden bullet storm from Maximus and Brutus. Their mini-guns began to excrete heat as they continued to slaughter more ISI soldiers. Some of the bullets made their way into the ISI soldiers driving the enemy vehicles which caused massive destruction! One of the jeeps collided into the side of a wall thanks to a dead driver whilst another knocked into a piece of scrap metal and spun through the air. The impact caused a massive explosion. Alerted ISI foot soldiers quickly scrambled to cover where they could avoid Brutus on the ground. But their efforts were futile with Maximus providing over watch from above. He fired his grenade launcher at the hiding soldiers which flushed them out, if they didn't die in the blast, for Brutus to execute. But still more ISI soldiers advanced into the area! The small area was becoming a bloodbath but Maximus and Brutus continued their destructive assault on the ISI…but they couldn't last forever. A 'clicking' sound was heard from Maximus's mini-gun which only meant that he was out of ammunition. He only had his grenade launcher left, but that too was low on ammo. Brutus was fairing much better either. His exposure upon the ground had allowed one ISI soldier to gain a lucky grenade on him. The explosion of the grenade caused his right foreleg to malfunction from the multiple shrapnel wedged inside it. The immobile leg prevented him from moving forward or backwards. He was exposed in the open and was running low on flame fuel and ammunition. Despite Maximus's low ammo problem, he continued to inflict damage whenever he saw an ISI soldier move. He spotted another ISI soldier advancing on the roof towards the RPG that was dropped by the former owner. Maximus aimed his grenade launcher at the soldier but another 'clicking' sound was heard… Brutus's grenade launcher had reached its final amount of ammunition and resorted to the remaining rounds of his mini-gun. However, he completely missed the ISI soldier upon the rooftop that was aiming the RPG directly at him! Maximus was unable to do anything and Brutus had just chewed up the last of his mini-gun ammunition! They couldn't continue to hold off the soldiers anymore! Brutus's camera looked up and spotted a bright yellow light zooming straight towards him. From Maximus's camera, there was a massive explosion, and a grey cloud blanketed where Brutus was standing. However, Maximus's cam could make out what looked like a demobilised Brutus. The front of Brutus of was completely dented in and his mini-gun was bent backwards. However, the camera fixed just underneath the mini-gun was still able to rotate which showed that he was not completely immobile. However, he would not be able to survive another fatal blow! Maximus turned to look at the AI drones that had suddenly gained interest in the battle that had just commenced. One had spotted the defenceless Brutus lying on the ground. However, Maximus failed to spot an ISI soldier throwing a Semtex grenade which suddenly attached to his left foreleg. The deadly ticking only lasted for a few seconds before a deadly explosion crippled his left foreleg. The imbalance caused Maximus to collapse off the roof and onto the ground below. The impact was devastating! His camera became distraught and fuzzy. It cut in and out as it viewed the sky. The destruction had gained the other drone's attention and it hovered over the defeated Maximus. With the two drones looking straight at the defeated CLAWs, their pulverising machine guns began to spin up as they prepared to end the pair of them. The ISI soldiers cheered as the drones readied to execute the CLAW machines, but their cheering was soon interrupted by a menacing evil laugh. From the middle of the small area, a sudden mystical black energy sprung quickly from the ground and speared through the first drone hovering over Maximus. The soldiers, shocked from the unnatural event and baffled at the same time, unleashed their firepower upon the magical dark magic, but it was completely useless. The bullets went through the force like they would when being shot through an ash cloud; they made little holes in the widespread magic, but they repaired instantly. The mystical black aura suddenly thrashed towards the second drone's machine gun. It destroyed the weapon in seconds. Rendered completely useless, and with the ISI soldiers fleeing for their lives, the drone was unable to escape from the grasp of the dark magic. It began to envelop the enemy drone in a cocoon of blackness. For a few seconds, only the sound of the rain was present before… The drone suddenly exploded into tiny pieces. With nothing to distract the magic from its goal, it turned towards the two downed CLAWs. The magic printed itself on the outskirts of Maximus and Brutus and elevated them into the air! It ended as soon as it began…the CLAWs were gone! An evil laugh echoed through the destroyed streets and vanished as if it had never been there! His deadly scarlet eyes widened in glee at the sight bestowed before him. The weakened remains of Maximus and Brutus lay before him in the worst of conditions. Their cameras were still moving around as if they were trying to gain sense of where they were and where the enemy was. He laughed in satisfaction. Looking at the foreign machinery planted in front of him, the possessor of the dark magic couldn't help but feel as if he had truly outdone himself with his ideas and intentions. Yet, at the same time, he couldn't help but wonder just how deadly the CLAWs could be in a world full of magic. He had been viewing the human world for months after his defeat at the Crystal Empire, and he was really impressed with the evil that surrounded the human world. Sadly for the owner of the magic, he couldn't take the ISI troops or even any of the factions within 'Cordis die' faction, but the highly advanced machinery was all he was going to need. Wanting to get to work immediately, he couldn't wait to see first hoof just how evil Maximus and Brutus could be under his power and enslavement. His horn slowly lit a murderous red and black aura, similar to the dark magic that destroyed the two drones, and it wrapped itself around Maximus and Brutus. The dark energy automatically began repairing Maximus and Brutus and refilling the ammo as if it had years of experience. The repairing was done within a matter of minutes. However, to his liking, the dark magic infiltrated the very core of Maximus and Brutus. The magic reprogrammed their intelligence and re-directed their ally as to being King Sombra himself! Maximus and Brutus, with a hideous red colour glowing around them, stood fresh and new, ready to serve their new master. In addition, one small robotic spider, possessing the same filthy red glow, hopped individually on Maximus. He was known as Ziggy. But behind them stood hundreds of CLAWs and drones, all clutching the haunting red aura. "Ah," King Sombra sighed pleasingly," My mechanical slaves!" Chapter 2"Hm…yes…you are perfect," King Sombra hissed as his demonic shadow figure cloaked over Maximus, Brutus and Ziggy. His shadow like figure was as dark as night. His shadow was so dark that it could have falsely terminated the existence of Maximus, Brutus and Ziggy if it wasn't for the red glowing light that traced around their mechanical bodies. However, being mindless and enslaved machines, they did not feel an inch of fear unlike the Crystal ponies when they were first enslaved. King Sombra did enjoy watching their pathetic little faces squirm under his dominating power. The hopelessness that reflected through their eyes was enjoyable for the black hearted unicorn. When their heads glared up to his dominating authority, with the lack of hope that they would ever be free, it always sketched a venomous smile across his face. But that was all taken away from him. The mighty combined power of the two Alicorns, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, was more than enough to defeat King Sombra and abolish him into the Artic North where he had been hiding ever since. Adding insult to injury, with the help of Princess Cadance, Shining Armor and the Elements of Harmony, his very slaves were able to defeat him from his second attempt to conquer the Crystal Empire. But not this time…this time he would have his revenge! King Sombra's shadow appearance lowered until his menacing eyes pried upon the small six legged spider, Ziggy. The acute robot spider stood motionless as if he did not recognise the existence of his new master and leader. Nevertheless, King Sombra released a jolly but evil chuckle as he eyed the small spider. Something so small but yet so mischievous and sneaky was pleasurable for King Sombra to think about. "You, my little pet, have a very important mission," King Sombra started as he turned his head towards the left side of the dimly lit red room. A small robotic movement sound echoed throughout the shadows. From the little sounds that followed them, it did not sound as threatening as did the CLAWs when they marched into battle. Being banished the first time from the Crystal Empire, and sentenced towards the freezing Artic North, King Sombra was left homeless and helpless. The power of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna had left him weak but not helpless. He used what strength he had left to create a small shelter that protected him from the harsh blizzards of the Artic North. From that point on, when his magic had fully restored, he turned his small shelter into a fortress where his personal headquarters would be located. The very room that he and all his robotic slaves were standing in was the giant throne room where, once all of Equestria kneeled down at his hooves, he would take control of everything around Equestria. King Sombra eyed the dimly red shadows hidden behind the cloak of blackness. Little robotic 'patter' sounds echoed around the room before a small robotic spider revealed itself. The corrupted unicorn smiled in glee as the second spider made its way towards Maximus. "This is Zaggy," King Sombra stated as Zaggy leaped on top of Maximus to join its counterpart, Ziggy. Zaggy was almost completely identical as Ziggy. However, Zaggy's appearance was different to Ziggy's as his armour was brown and had eight legs instead of six. Their size was equally matched but Zaggy possessed an army camouflage instead of a completely dark appearance. Both robotic spiders shared the same electronic Taser device that would come in handy for the task they were about to receive. "You two have a very important mission!" King Sombra stated with a deadly tone. "If I am to rule not only the Crystal Empire, but the whole of Equestria then there are a couple of 'issues' that need to be dealt with." King Sombra's eyes shun a hideous green colour as they reflected into the small robotic camera of Ziggy and Zaggy. The image of not one, not two, but three Alicorns transferred to their memory bank. They were easily identified as Princess Celestia, Luna and Cadance. "Easily, the power of Princess Celestia, Luna and Cadance combined together could destroy everything I have planned," King Sombra started after transferring the targets to the two miniscule spiders," It's your important role to find all three when they are not together. Princess Celestia and Luna should be simple, but Cadance will prove to be more of a challenge since she is married to the Captain of the Royal Guards, Shining Armor. You might have to wait, but for now you must simply paralyse Celestia and Luna." King Sombra wondered to himself on what he would do with the Princesses once they were paralysed, beaten and captured by his CLAW army. At most, he wanted to make them watch their very loyal subjects suffer under his enslavement. Have her watch in pain and fear as every stallion, mare and foal was subjected towards chains and forced to work for the rest of their pathetic lives. Better yet, what if she was forced to watch the ones she kept so close to her be purposely tortured and killed in front of her? How would she feel knowing that she had failed to protect all of her subjects and Equestria? The rhetorical questions tickled King Sombra with glee and excitement. The thoughts of watching his enemies suffer at his hooves were more than what he needed in motivation and confidence that he would soon rule all of Equestria. "Now my spider slaves," King Sombra hissed as he morphed back into his shadow figure," I can send you on the outskirts of Canterlot but not inside the castle itself. Knowing an Alicorn, they would feel a magical disturbance in the atmosphere if I was to send you straight inside the castle. You will have to make your own way into the building and outsmart any guards that may be positioned around the castle." The same black aura that had rescued Maximus and Brutus from their assured destruction slowly enveloped itself around Ziggy and Zaggy. They slowly started to hover into the air whilst the black aura started to spin faster and faster around them. King Sombra let out one last laugh for them to acknowledge. "Remember, find the princesses and paralyse them. Do not disappoint me!" With a roar, King Sombra unleashed his magical transportation spell and a bright red light flashed for a few seconds. When the hideous spell died down, Ziggy and Zaggy's presence was no more. They were gone. King Sombra unleashed a venomous laugh! "Now then," King Sombra hissed as he circled around Maximus and Brutus, "We need talk about the mission I have the pair of you involving the Elements of Harmony!" OXO The sound of a chariot being pulled slowly rolled along the pathway that led towards Canterlot. It was a beautiful golden chariot that stretched wide enough to fit at least four ponies inside. The wheels glittered with red, white and green emeralds and the overall figure twinkled from the small white diamonds warped all over it. Its beauty was unique and could easily be recognised by all the inhabitants across Equestria as a special chariot of importance and they would know that figures within it were very important and special. The overall appearance of the chariot was priceless and fit for royalty. And within the chariot were royal figures that were happy to be in each other's presence. The married couple, holding each other in their hooves, happily looked out of their chariot at the beautiful landscape that led to the prosperous city of Canterlot and the Canterlot castle. From time to time, they would cuddle each other and exchange kisses on the nose or lips as the day was beautiful, young and exciting. Why wouldn't the happily married couple, Princess Cadance and Shining Armor, exchange their love on such a fine and spectacular day? The mood settled easily for the undying feeling of love between Cadance and her husband and they did not want it to end anytime soon. The sun was shining, the wind was gentle and friendly, the animals sung with delight, and the flowers blossomed with glee. The day was perfect. Cadance couldn't feel anymore happier than what she was feeling right now. It was almost exactly the same as the time when she and Shining Armor had married. The wonderful feelings that day were almost matched with the feelings of today. There was nothing that could spoil her mood. Better yet, what made the day more spectacular was the fact that Twilight Sparkle had invited Princess Cadance to join her and her friends in a day at the spa. A day with Twilight was like a special gift for Cadance. Cadance hoped that it would be just like old times where they could bond and be together. It was also a good chance for her and Twilight to catch up on each other and find out what they have been up to. When Twilight grew a little too old for a foal sitter, Cadance had not seen her until her wedding day in Canterlot where they met in one of Chrysalis's green crystal prisons. Thanks to Twilight, she was able to free Cadance and save her wedding by foiling the Queen Changling's plans. Seeing her for the first time where the fate of Equestria wasn't at stake would was much better for the princess. Talking with Twilight, and the rest of the Elements of Harmony, was the part of the day that Cadance looked most forward to. The day seemed too good to be true for the young Princess of love. She sighed happily as she leaned slightly on her husband's neck who in return rubbed his cheek on her snout in response. She shut her eyes whilst she enjoyed the relaxing ride into Canterlot. As the chariot slowly progressed towards Canterlot, a sudden bump from a hole in the ground awoke Cadance from her fantasy world. The married couple were startled, but only for a few seconds did they worry about what had happened since they were about to enter Canterlot once more. However, during the small shock, two small spider figures had jumped on the back of the chariot and crawled underneath it. The bottom of the carriage let off a small red glow as Ziggy and Zaggy patiently waited for the chariot to stop outside the Canterlot castle. Chapter 3The carriage slowly came to a halt as Princess Cadance and Shining Armor exited in front of the Canterlot castle. Four guards were already waiting for the pair as they exited. For a moment, there was a silence until the chains on the drawbridge that led into the Canterlot castle slowly descended. Two tall figures stood on the other end along with the company of six other guards. Both possessed a face of seriousness and expertise as they watched the married couple slowly walk across the drawbridge. The smile on Cadance's face slowly deflated as the two serious faces of the co-rulers came into view. "Princess Cadence, and Shining Armor, it's good for you to come on such short notice," Celestia said as the married couple had finished their short walk over the drawbridge. "Please follow, we have much to discuss." "What important matters? Why do you look so worried, Celestia?" Princess Cadance questioned. "Cadance, my sister and I believe that evil has once again planted itself within Equestria. Recently, there has been a disturbance in the magical balance of Equestria. Some pony, or something, somewhere is using great power to inflict evil across the land. I fear that this evil is growing more powerful by the minute. I have a really bad feeling about this," Celestia replied. Her tone was bonded with the feeling of fear but still upheld its authority. "This evil grows stronger each day. We simply cannot figure out the sole being responsible for these inflating powers. What worries us most is that it continues to grow with each passing day. Celestia and I did plan on sending Twilight Sparkle and her friends to investigate, but the strength of this evil force made us think twice. That is why we have called upon you and Shining Armor," Luna explained whilst the four advanced into the hall where the stained glass paintings of all of Equestria's victories were placed. "Shining Armor, we need you to assemble a few of your best guards to investigate this matter," Celestia started whilst she stopped in front of the stained glass painting of the Elements of Harmony defeating Discord, "I simply cannot put Twilight Sparkle or any of her friends in danger. Please understand this, Shining Armor; I couldn't live with myself to see my best student hurt because of my orders," Celestia stated whilst she turned to look at the captain. "I understand perfectly, your majesty. I wouldn't dare let my sister walk into something that puts her and her friends in grave danger," Shining Armor stated with pride. Princess Celestia nodded in response as they all continued to walk towards the throne room where she would then send off Shining Armor to fetch a couple of his best guards. She couldn't help but feel as if this magical force was something that possessed more power than her and her sister even combined. In addition, some strange thought plagued her mind that this evil power was even becoming stronger than the power of the 'Elements of Harmony'. The thoughts scared her deeply. A cold and chilly shiver crept down Celestia's spine of all a sudden. She had the sudden feeling as if she was being watched by something. She paused and turned towards one of the many high windows of the castle. However, her vision met nothing but the bright blue sky and the lazy white clouds that slept with it. Her long stare had caused the others to turn their heads as well. Like Celestia, they saw nothing but the relaxing sky. "Sister, what is wrong?" Princess Luna asked with concern. "Nothing…it's nothing," Celestia responded as she turned her attention back towards the throne room," I hope," she whispered. OXO Ziggy and Zaggy, after waiting for the princesses and the guards to walk away into the building, crawled down from the carriage and hid underneath it. The little spiders would wait until the guards and the ponies were gone before sneaking into the castle. However, the drawbridge slowly started to wind itself back up as the two enslaved spider-bots were waiting. Quickly, they both dashed towards the bridge and leaped from the small gap that stood in between the spiders and the drawbridge which led to the moat of water below. Their legs clinched onto the wooden structure of the drawbridge as it slowly descended upwards until it sealed shut. Their plan changed. Slowly, they began to climb from the tip of the drawbridge to the side of the wall of the Canterlot castle. Their movement was quick and silent. Thankfully they were had to see thanks to their small size but the glowing aura around their bodies made them easier to identify if a guard was to turn their way. However, their speed made up for their appearance as they sprinted like a cheetah across the walls until they made it to the first window. The first story window was blocked off by large glass. Ziggy and Zaggy both knew that they could easily break the glass, but the risk of blowing their cover and jeopardising their mission made them consolidate another plan. Both spiders decided to peer through the window and they spotted the four ponies speaking to each other. As they watched, they noticed one of their primary targets, Princess Celestia, was turning to look at their position. They quickly scampered to side of the window to avoid being seen, and crawled around to try and find another entry that wasn't blocked and wouldn't make any noise that would attract unwanted attention. For five minutes they continued to scramble to the right of the castle until they met another window, open, which led to the throne room. They spotted the four targets moving down the room. One of their main targets, Princess Celestia, walked forward and sat down on her throne. From their perspective, Princess Celestia seemed extremely curious with all the windows. She constantly looked up at them which forced the two spider-bots to retreat back slightly. Things were going to be difficult for Ziggy and Zaggy as the suspicion and sudden paranoia of Princess Celestia had put them behind schedule. Retreating back to avoid detection, a sudden small black aura projected from the eyes of Zaggy. The aura started to create a live image of a small King Sombra. "My mighty CLAW army is ready to attack the Crystal Empire. Have you taken care of the three princesses?" King Sombra piped up from his holographic image. Ziggy and Zaggy stared at their master. "Well?" The angered King asked in an assertive tone. The two enslaved spider robots remained as still as statues. "Useless!" Sombra hissed in hesitation. His magic forced his perspective to flip from Ziggy and Zaggy to what they were seeing from the window. King Sombra released a low growl as he saw his archenemies discussing from the throne room. Knowing that the delay of the infiltration of Canterlot castle would cause a small dilemma in his plans, King Sombra sighed in agitation. "Not entirely what I had planned…but no matter. Continue with your mission, slaves. I will check again on you and Maximus and Brutus to see if your tasks have been completed. Do not disappoint me!" The aura that illuminated from Zaggy's eyes suddenly disappeared. Still as emotionless as ever, Ziggy and Zaggy turned their attention back onto their primary targets. Ziggy and Zaggy continued to study their targets while they prepared their Tasers for elimination. From what they observed, there were two guards standing guard beneath Princess Celestia's throne. If they were to reach Celestia then they would have to eliminate any side threats that could possibly jeopardise their goal. Before long, Cadance, Shining Armor and Luna went their separate ways around the castle which left Celestia alone with the exception of her two guards. Spotting their moment, they quickly climbed through the window and into the castle and dashed down the wall. They hid behind the closest thing they could find; Ziggy scurried behind a small statue whilst Zaggy fled behind a long curtain that fell from one of the windows and nearly kissed the floor. Quietly, they both peered out from their hiding positions to spy on their targets. Celestia seemed to be writing on a few new papers that had been left for her. The guards stood like statues as they continued to guard their beloved ruler. There was no other guard in sight that could compromise their assault. All they required now…was the right moment to strike. OXO "In lighter news, I heard that my most faithful student has invited you to spend the day with her and her friends." Princess Celestia said whishing to change the mood of the subject into a happier one. "Oh yes! It will be the first time I will be able to see Twilight without the fate of Equestria being put at risk," Cadance responded happily. But her smile was outlasted when Celestia shot a look of annoyance at her. Celestia meant no harm with her vicious glare but she was annoyed at the fact that Cadance had forgotten for a split second of the subject that they were just on. Cadance apologised. "Should we tell Twilight Sparkle about your worries, sister?" Luna asked. "No," Celestia started," she doesn't need the burden right now. Plus we do not know for sure if I am correct, but I have a strong feeling that I am correct. I wish I was wrong…but I just know." As they continued to speak, Celestia's throne stood idle at the top of the small stairs. Rested on the cushion of her throne were important papers that needed her attention. Celestia sighed as she saw the pile. She used her magic to remove them as she took her place upon the throne. However, her eyes averted themselves to the windows above her. The shivering feeling crept its way back down Celestia's spine once more. She couldn't help but feel as if something was watching her. Constantly, she looked between her sister and the married couple and the windows. Luna looked on in concern at her sister. "If you'd please excuse me, I have important duties to attend to. I will hopefully see you, Cadance, before you depart for Ponyville. And Shining Armor, please could you fetch your fastest Pegasi to me at once!" Celestia ordered. Shining Armor saluted and walked left with his wife whilst Luna walked to the right. She quickly turned around to look at her sister who had already started to sign of papers. "I will be in my quarters if you need me, sister," Luna told calmly. Princess Celestia turned to look at Luna and gave her a graceful smile and a nod. The princess of the night returned the nod back and walked off and out of the throne room. Celestia was alone with the exception of the two guards that stood completely motionless. Celestia turned her attention back to the papers and began signing them. However, a sudden noise clutched her attention. The sound of small scampering feet patting on the ground alerted the guards below her as well. Immediately hostile, the sprung into their battle stance and were ready to fight whoever the infiltrator was. The princess of the sun continued to look frantically at the room around her. But her attention switched…when one of her guards screamed! Chapter 4The second guard had no time to react as Zaggy jumped onto his back and viciously zapped him until he was knocked out. Ziggy had already dealt with the first guard and was scurrying his way up to the startled princess. Zaggy was quick to follow. Princess Celestia stared in disbelief at the two small spiders advancing her way. However, her instincts were quick as she quickly used her magic to transport herself into the air right as Ziggy had tried to lunge at her. Her wings kept her in the air and balanced. She tried to get a better look at her attackers but the adrenaline that shot through her caused her to become less focused on specific details of her attackers and more on herself. But what she could make out from the small identification of her attackers, while preparing her superior magic in order to combat the intruders, was that they looked a lot like spiders and the red aura that cloaked around them made them more noticeable to her. The sudden strange presence that she had been feeling all through the day suddenly came back to her right as the spider bots had revealed themselves. "Who and what are you creatures!?" Celestia demanded with her authority. Ziggy and Zaggy ignored her question. Ziggy was staring up at the princess from where he had lunged and landed on the back rest of the throne. With the primary objective still in focus, Ziggy quickly dismounted from the throne and began climbing up the left side of the inner castle wall. Zaggy, whom had finished zapping the injured guard, spotted the floating princess glaring angrily at Ziggy and he noticed her charging up her horn. Following Ziggy's example, Zaggy began clawing his way up the inner right side of the castle wall until he had reached the roof. While Zaggy was making his way to the roof, Princess Celestia had started firing her powerful magic at Ziggy. He was forced to scurry sideways along the wall which prevented him from climbing directly upwards, but his scapegoat was what Zaggy needed in order to pry closer to the unsuspecting princess. Scurrying closer towards the princess, Zaggy's Taser released a small burst of energy in preparation for the full sting. However, before Zaggy could make his pounce on Celestia, the sound of two giant doors suddenly opened and revealed Shining Armor, Princess Cadance and the six best Pegasi guards. They gasped as they firstly looked at their princess battling with the small robotic spider on the left side of the wall. Then they noticed their comrades beaten on the floor with shocked looks in their eyes. Zaggy knew that they were going to jeopardise their whole mission if they were allowed to intervene. Picking Shining Armor as his target, he pounced downwards. OXO "Protect the princess!" Shining Armor ordered his guards. Cadance stood slightly behind her husband as she looked at the scene unfolding in front of her. The six Pegasi guards had quickly flown towards the princess and created a diamond formation around her: two in the front, two in the middle and two at the back with Princess Celestia in the middle. Once they spotted the perpetrator who Celestia had been defending herself from, they set about to quickly capture Ziggy. One of the guards from the front and one from the back had been the ones to try and capture the small spider, but trying to capture Ziggy proved to be more complicated for the guards. When ever they tried to capture Ziggy, their hooves would get zapped with Ziggy's Taser which caused them to retreat back. Ziggy's quick movement also made it hard for the Pegasi guards to focus on where he would be so that they could catch him. The other four guards had escorted Princess Celestia to the other end of the throne room. Shining Armor stepped forward in attempt to help the two guards capture Ziggy with his magic, but something landed on his back! A sharp stinging sensation suddenly flowed into Shining Armor's left foreleg. Zaggy, after picking Shining Armor as his target, clumsily fell onto his back. But the drop caused his to slip slightly over Shining Armor's back and left him clinging onto his red jacket. His jacket ripped from the right shoulder down to his chest as Zaggy unleashed a high voltage of electricity into Shining Armor's right foreleg. Luckily, due to the distance and poor accuracy, Shining Armor's right foreleg wasn't paralysed. "What the-"Shining Armor cried aloud as he felt a sharp sting rage in his right shoulder. Without thinking, he bucked rapidly into the air in attempt to throw Zaggy off. With luck, Zaggy lost his grip on Shining Armor and tore the rest of the shirt on his right. Cadance quickly rushed over to her husband and calmed him before he hurt himself. However, right as she calmed her husband, she noticed that Zaggy had already made another attempt to attack her husband. Using her magic, she caught the small spider mid-air before he could clutch onto Shining Armor's back. Unfortunately, she had brought Zaggy just slightly in range for him to use his Taser on her nose. Cadance gasped and released Zaggy as she touched the tip of her nose with her hoof. The assault of his wife caused Shining Armor to grow incredibly furious. Turning to face the fleeing attacker, he focused his magic and clutched Zaggy before he could scale the walls. In an instant, Shining Armor forced his magic to drag the helpless spider underneath his hoof before Shining Armor crushed him. Zaggy was left in pieces and the red aura escaped out of the closest window. The red eyes shut down and changed into an empty black colour of nothingness. Ziggy halted his tracks as he spotted his fallen counterpart and realised that he had been trashed into pieces. With Zaggy compromised and destroyed, Ziggy had failed his mission in eliminating the princesses and had to return back to his master. Consequently, Ziggy being distracted by the termination of his comrade had given one of the guards enough time to quickly snatch Ziggy by surprise. The guard held Ziggy upside down and away from his face so that he could not Taser him. He brought the prisoner over to Celestia who used her magic to safely hold him at a distance. Ziggy's legs waved frantically all over the place as he tried his best to escape the grasp of the princess. Ziggy even tried to use his Taser in attempts to escape, but his efforts were futile against the supreme clutch of Celestia's magical grasp. But the struggling of Ziggy stopped when he heard a voice boom inside him. "You have failed me! The mission was so simple, but you were too weak and futile to do my bidding! You are a worthless fool! I have no need for you any longer, pathetic spider…but your failure is only a small price to pay for the invasion of Equestria. No matter what happens, I will take Equestria, and your failure and ignorance will not stop me!" The voice of King Sombra echoed all over. The mystical red aura suddenly vaporised from Ziggy's body, leaving him as an empty mechanical shell without a controller. Celestia gasped as she saw the red aura flee and escape outside one of the windows. The simple black spider's legs held in place which resembled his idleness. Princess Cadance slowly walked over to Celestia along with her husband. She quietly whispered into his ear… "What is it?" "I-I don't know, Cadance," Shining Armor responded quietly and curiously. Princess Celestia, after watching the aura escape outside, looked deeply at the empty spider machine. The feeling of danger that Princess Celestia felt when the red aura was around the machine was gone and she felt more relaxed around it. Slowly, she brought Ziggy closer to her eyes. "What are you?" She asked.
Chapter 1The mighty CLAW machines, Maximus and Brutus, released destruction upon the incoming ISI soldiers that were alerted of David Mason and Mike Harper's presence. Maximus dealt with any incoming ISI soldiers on the rooftops with his deadly grenade launcher and mounted mini-gun. Constant ISI soldiers continued to flood into the area in an attempt to capture or kill the J-SOC soldiers. But their efforts were futile with Maximus reigning explosives and bullets upon them. Brutus was able to efficiently deal with any ISI soldiers that could have been trying to advance towards Section and Harper. His deadly flamethrower, if it didn't burn his enemies to death, kept them at bay for his mini-gun to butcher down. Despite being Artificial Intelligence, Section could easily take control of the pair and direct them as to where they should be shooting. He directed Brutus outside where he would be able to give cover fire for the two J-SOC soldiers. He used his added ability of the flamethrower to scorch the ground troopers whilst Section and Harper waited for Salazar to arrive with evacuation. He then switched to Maximus where he Section manually targeted the enemy drone that was distracted by the presence of him and Harper. Firing the deadly grenade launcher twice, the drone malfunctioned and crashed into the building behind it. Maximus and Brutus's mounted mini-guns slaughtered any troopers that got too close to the J-SOC. An RPG missile zoomed just over Brutus, whom was distracted with the ground support from the ISI. Section spotted this immediately and used Maximus's mini-gun to unleash a sea of bullets into the RPG wielding soldier. He dropped dead quickly. The fire-fight between the ISI and the CLAWs continued for a good few minutes, with the CLAWs dominating the small battlefield with their hardened armour and powerful weaponry. The sound of a jeep engine was suddenly heard and two jeeps with mounted machine guns on the back arrived along with one friendly drone. It was Salazar. He had come to Section and Harper's salvation. They quickly entered the jeeps, Section taking over the driver seat from Crosby while he jumped into shotgun. Harper clutched control of the machine gun and they were quickly on their way to find a way out of the city. Maximus and Brutus, only serving as a distraction to the ISI, were left behind so that the J-SOC soldiers could escape. As Section drove further away from the two CLAWs, he lost the signal that connected him to the two CLAW machines. They were back to being automatic…and left alone to the demise of the incoming ISI machinery and soldiers. Enemy ISI drones whizzed over the two CLAW machines while more soldiers and enemy jeeps passed through to try and catch up to the fleeing J-SOC soldiers. However, the foot soldiers were unprepared for the sudden bullet storm from Maximus and Brutus. Their mini-guns began to excrete heat as they continued to slaughter more ISI soldiers. Some of the bullets made their way into the ISI soldiers driving the enemy vehicles which caused massive destruction! One of the jeeps collided into the side of a wall thanks to a dead driver whilst another knocked into a piece of scrap metal and spun through the air. The impact caused a massive explosion. Alerted ISI foot soldiers quickly scrambled to cover where they could avoid Brutus on the ground. But their efforts were futile with Maximus providing over watch from above. He fired his grenade launcher at the hiding soldiers which flushed them out, if they didn't die in the blast, for Brutus to execute. But still more ISI soldiers advanced into the area! The small area was becoming a bloodbath but Maximus and Brutus continued their destructive assault on the ISI…but they couldn't last forever. A 'clicking' sound was heard from Maximus's mini-gun which only meant that he was out of ammunition. He only had his grenade launcher left, but that too was low on ammo. Brutus was fairing much better either. His exposure upon the ground had allowed one ISI soldier to gain a lucky grenade on him. The explosion of the grenade caused his right foreleg to malfunction from the multiple shrapnel wedged inside it. The immobile leg prevented him from moving forward or backwards. He was exposed in the open and was running low on flame fuel and ammunition. Despite Maximus's low ammo problem, he continued to inflict damage whenever he saw an ISI soldier move. He spotted another ISI soldier advancing on the roof towards the RPG that was dropped by the former owner. Maximus aimed his grenade launcher at the soldier but another 'clicking' sound was heard… Brutus's grenade launcher had reached its final amount of ammunition and resorted to the remaining rounds of his mini-gun. However, he completely missed the ISI soldier upon the rooftop that was aiming the RPG directly at him! Maximus was unable to do anything and Brutus had just chewed up the last of his mini-gun ammunition! They couldn't continue to hold off the soldiers anymore! Brutus's camera looked up and spotted a bright yellow light zooming straight towards him. From Maximus's camera, there was a massive explosion, and a grey cloud blanketed where Brutus was standing. However, Maximus's cam could make out what looked like a demobilised Brutus. The front of Brutus of was completely dented in and his mini-gun was bent backwards. However, the camera fixed just underneath the mini-gun was still able to rotate which showed that he was not completely immobile. However, he would not be able to survive another fatal blow! Maximus turned to look at the AI drones that had suddenly gained interest in the battle that had just commenced. One had spotted the defenceless Brutus lying on the ground. However, Maximus failed to spot an ISI soldier throwing a Semtex grenade which suddenly attached to his left foreleg. The deadly ticking only lasted for a few seconds before a deadly explosion crippled his left foreleg. The imbalance caused Maximus to collapse off the roof and onto the ground below. The impact was devastating! His camera became distraught and fuzzy. It cut in and out as it viewed the sky. The destruction had gained the other drone's attention and it hovered over the defeated Maximus. With the two drones looking straight at the defeated CLAWs, their pulverising machine guns began to spin up as they prepared to end the pair of them. The ISI soldiers cheered as the drones readied to execute the CLAW machines, but their cheering was soon interrupted by a menacing evil laugh. From the middle of the small area, a sudden mystical black energy sprung quickly from the ground and speared through the first drone hovering over Maximus. The soldiers, shocked from the unnatural event and baffled at the same time, unleashed their firepower upon the magical dark magic, but it was completely useless. The bullets went through the force like they would when being shot through an ash cloud; they made little holes in the widespread magic, but they repaired instantly. The mystical black aura suddenly thrashed towards the second drone's machine gun. It destroyed the weapon in seconds. Rendered completely useless, and with the ISI soldiers fleeing for their lives, the drone was unable to escape from the grasp of the dark magic. It began to envelop the enemy drone in a cocoon of blackness. For a few seconds, only the sound of the rain was present before… The drone suddenly exploded into tiny pieces. With nothing to distract the magic from its goal, it turned towards the two downed CLAWs. The magic printed itself on the outskirts of Maximus and Brutus and elevated them into the air! It ended as soon as it began…the CLAWs were gone! An evil laugh echoed through the destroyed streets and vanished as if it had never been there! His deadly scarlet eyes widened in glee at the sight bestowed before him. The weakened remains of Maximus and Brutus lay before him in the worst of conditions. Their cameras were still moving around as if they were trying to gain sense of where they were and where the enemy was. He laughed in satisfaction. Looking at the foreign machinery planted in front of him, the possessor of the dark magic couldn't help but feel as if he had truly outdone himself with his ideas and intentions. Yet, at the same time, he couldn't help but wonder just how deadly the CLAWs could be in a world full of magic. He had been viewing the human world for months after his defeat at the Crystal Empire, and he was really impressed with the evil that surrounded the human world. Sadly for the owner of the magic, he couldn't take the ISI troops or even any of the factions within 'Cordis die' faction, but the highly advanced machinery was all he was going to need. Wanting to get to work immediately, he couldn't wait to see first hoof just how evil Maximus and Brutus could be under his power and enslavement. His horn slowly lit a murderous red and black aura, similar to the dark magic that destroyed the two drones, and it wrapped itself around Maximus and Brutus. The dark energy automatically began repairing Maximus and Brutus and refilling the ammo as if it had years of experience. The repairing was done within a matter of minutes. However, to his liking, the dark magic infiltrated the very core of Maximus and Brutus. The magic reprogrammed their intelligence and re-directed their ally as to being King Sombra himself! Maximus and Brutus, with a hideous red colour glowing around them, stood fresh and new, ready to serve their new master. In addition, one small robotic spider, possessing the same filthy red glow, hopped individually on Maximus. He was known as Ziggy. But behind them stood hundreds of CLAWs and drones, all clutching the haunting red aura. "Ah," King Sombra sighed pleasingly," My mechanical slaves!"
Chapter 2"Hm…yes…you are perfect," King Sombra hissed as his demonic shadow figure cloaked over Maximus, Brutus and Ziggy. His shadow like figure was as dark as night. His shadow was so dark that it could have falsely terminated the existence of Maximus, Brutus and Ziggy if it wasn't for the red glowing light that traced around their mechanical bodies. However, being mindless and enslaved machines, they did not feel an inch of fear unlike the Crystal ponies when they were first enslaved. King Sombra did enjoy watching their pathetic little faces squirm under his dominating power. The hopelessness that reflected through their eyes was enjoyable for the black hearted unicorn. When their heads glared up to his dominating authority, with the lack of hope that they would ever be free, it always sketched a venomous smile across his face. But that was all taken away from him. The mighty combined power of the two Alicorns, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, was more than enough to defeat King Sombra and abolish him into the Artic North where he had been hiding ever since. Adding insult to injury, with the help of Princess Cadance, Shining Armor and the Elements of Harmony, his very slaves were able to defeat him from his second attempt to conquer the Crystal Empire. But not this time…this time he would have his revenge! King Sombra's shadow appearance lowered until his menacing eyes pried upon the small six legged spider, Ziggy. The acute robot spider stood motionless as if he did not recognise the existence of his new master and leader. Nevertheless, King Sombra released a jolly but evil chuckle as he eyed the small spider. Something so small but yet so mischievous and sneaky was pleasurable for King Sombra to think about. "You, my little pet, have a very important mission," King Sombra started as he turned his head towards the left side of the dimly lit red room. A small robotic movement sound echoed throughout the shadows. From the little sounds that followed them, it did not sound as threatening as did the CLAWs when they marched into battle. Being banished the first time from the Crystal Empire, and sentenced towards the freezing Artic North, King Sombra was left homeless and helpless. The power of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna had left him weak but not helpless. He used what strength he had left to create a small shelter that protected him from the harsh blizzards of the Artic North. From that point on, when his magic had fully restored, he turned his small shelter into a fortress where his personal headquarters would be located. The very room that he and all his robotic slaves were standing in was the giant throne room where, once all of Equestria kneeled down at his hooves, he would take control of everything around Equestria. King Sombra eyed the dimly red shadows hidden behind the cloak of blackness. Little robotic 'patter' sounds echoed around the room before a small robotic spider revealed itself. The corrupted unicorn smiled in glee as the second spider made its way towards Maximus. "This is Zaggy," King Sombra stated as Zaggy leaped on top of Maximus to join its counterpart, Ziggy. Zaggy was almost completely identical as Ziggy. However, Zaggy's appearance was different to Ziggy's as his armour was brown and had eight legs instead of six. Their size was equally matched but Zaggy possessed an army camouflage instead of a completely dark appearance. Both robotic spiders shared the same electronic Taser device that would come in handy for the task they were about to receive. "You two have a very important mission!" King Sombra stated with a deadly tone. "If I am to rule not only the Crystal Empire, but the whole of Equestria then there are a couple of 'issues' that need to be dealt with." King Sombra's eyes shun a hideous green colour as they reflected into the small robotic camera of Ziggy and Zaggy. The image of not one, not two, but three Alicorns transferred to their memory bank. They were easily identified as Princess Celestia, Luna and Cadance. "Easily, the power of Princess Celestia, Luna and Cadance combined together could destroy everything I have planned," King Sombra started after transferring the targets to the two miniscule spiders," It's your important role to find all three when they are not together. Princess Celestia and Luna should be simple, but Cadance will prove to be more of a challenge since she is married to the Captain of the Royal Guards, Shining Armor. You might have to wait, but for now you must simply paralyse Celestia and Luna." King Sombra wondered to himself on what he would do with the Princesses once they were paralysed, beaten and captured by his CLAW army. At most, he wanted to make them watch their very loyal subjects suffer under his enslavement. Have her watch in pain and fear as every stallion, mare and foal was subjected towards chains and forced to work for the rest of their pathetic lives. Better yet, what if she was forced to watch the ones she kept so close to her be purposely tortured and killed in front of her? How would she feel knowing that she had failed to protect all of her subjects and Equestria? The rhetorical questions tickled King Sombra with glee and excitement. The thoughts of watching his enemies suffer at his hooves were more than what he needed in motivation and confidence that he would soon rule all of Equestria. "Now my spider slaves," King Sombra hissed as he morphed back into his shadow figure," I can send you on the outskirts of Canterlot but not inside the castle itself. Knowing an Alicorn, they would feel a magical disturbance in the atmosphere if I was to send you straight inside the castle. You will have to make your own way into the building and outsmart any guards that may be positioned around the castle." The same black aura that had rescued Maximus and Brutus from their assured destruction slowly enveloped itself around Ziggy and Zaggy. They slowly started to hover into the air whilst the black aura started to spin faster and faster around them. King Sombra let out one last laugh for them to acknowledge. "Remember, find the princesses and paralyse them. Do not disappoint me!" With a roar, King Sombra unleashed his magical transportation spell and a bright red light flashed for a few seconds. When the hideous spell died down, Ziggy and Zaggy's presence was no more. They were gone. King Sombra unleashed a venomous laugh! "Now then," King Sombra hissed as he circled around Maximus and Brutus, "We need talk about the mission I have the pair of you involving the Elements of Harmony!" OXO The sound of a chariot being pulled slowly rolled along the pathway that led towards Canterlot. It was a beautiful golden chariot that stretched wide enough to fit at least four ponies inside. The wheels glittered with red, white and green emeralds and the overall figure twinkled from the small white diamonds warped all over it. Its beauty was unique and could easily be recognised by all the inhabitants across Equestria as a special chariot of importance and they would know that figures within it were very important and special. The overall appearance of the chariot was priceless and fit for royalty. And within the chariot were royal figures that were happy to be in each other's presence. The married couple, holding each other in their hooves, happily looked out of their chariot at the beautiful landscape that led to the prosperous city of Canterlot and the Canterlot castle. From time to time, they would cuddle each other and exchange kisses on the nose or lips as the day was beautiful, young and exciting. Why wouldn't the happily married couple, Princess Cadance and Shining Armor, exchange their love on such a fine and spectacular day? The mood settled easily for the undying feeling of love between Cadance and her husband and they did not want it to end anytime soon. The sun was shining, the wind was gentle and friendly, the animals sung with delight, and the flowers blossomed with glee. The day was perfect. Cadance couldn't feel anymore happier than what she was feeling right now. It was almost exactly the same as the time when she and Shining Armor had married. The wonderful feelings that day were almost matched with the feelings of today. There was nothing that could spoil her mood. Better yet, what made the day more spectacular was the fact that Twilight Sparkle had invited Princess Cadance to join her and her friends in a day at the spa. A day with Twilight was like a special gift for Cadance. Cadance hoped that it would be just like old times where they could bond and be together. It was also a good chance for her and Twilight to catch up on each other and find out what they have been up to. When Twilight grew a little too old for a foal sitter, Cadance had not seen her until her wedding day in Canterlot where they met in one of Chrysalis's green crystal prisons. Thanks to Twilight, she was able to free Cadance and save her wedding by foiling the Queen Changling's plans. Seeing her for the first time where the fate of Equestria wasn't at stake would was much better for the princess. Talking with Twilight, and the rest of the Elements of Harmony, was the part of the day that Cadance looked most forward to. The day seemed too good to be true for the young Princess of love. She sighed happily as she leaned slightly on her husband's neck who in return rubbed his cheek on her snout in response. She shut her eyes whilst she enjoyed the relaxing ride into Canterlot. As the chariot slowly progressed towards Canterlot, a sudden bump from a hole in the ground awoke Cadance from her fantasy world. The married couple were startled, but only for a few seconds did they worry about what had happened since they were about to enter Canterlot once more. However, during the small shock, two small spider figures had jumped on the back of the chariot and crawled underneath it. The bottom of the carriage let off a small red glow as Ziggy and Zaggy patiently waited for the chariot to stop outside the Canterlot castle.
Chapter 3The carriage slowly came to a halt as Princess Cadance and Shining Armor exited in front of the Canterlot castle. Four guards were already waiting for the pair as they exited. For a moment, there was a silence until the chains on the drawbridge that led into the Canterlot castle slowly descended. Two tall figures stood on the other end along with the company of six other guards. Both possessed a face of seriousness and expertise as they watched the married couple slowly walk across the drawbridge. The smile on Cadance's face slowly deflated as the two serious faces of the co-rulers came into view. "Princess Cadence, and Shining Armor, it's good for you to come on such short notice," Celestia said as the married couple had finished their short walk over the drawbridge. "Please follow, we have much to discuss." "What important matters? Why do you look so worried, Celestia?" Princess Cadance questioned. "Cadance, my sister and I believe that evil has once again planted itself within Equestria. Recently, there has been a disturbance in the magical balance of Equestria. Some pony, or something, somewhere is using great power to inflict evil across the land. I fear that this evil is growing more powerful by the minute. I have a really bad feeling about this," Celestia replied. Her tone was bonded with the feeling of fear but still upheld its authority. "This evil grows stronger each day. We simply cannot figure out the sole being responsible for these inflating powers. What worries us most is that it continues to grow with each passing day. Celestia and I did plan on sending Twilight Sparkle and her friends to investigate, but the strength of this evil force made us think twice. That is why we have called upon you and Shining Armor," Luna explained whilst the four advanced into the hall where the stained glass paintings of all of Equestria's victories were placed. "Shining Armor, we need you to assemble a few of your best guards to investigate this matter," Celestia started whilst she stopped in front of the stained glass painting of the Elements of Harmony defeating Discord, "I simply cannot put Twilight Sparkle or any of her friends in danger. Please understand this, Shining Armor; I couldn't live with myself to see my best student hurt because of my orders," Celestia stated whilst she turned to look at the captain. "I understand perfectly, your majesty. I wouldn't dare let my sister walk into something that puts her and her friends in grave danger," Shining Armor stated with pride. Princess Celestia nodded in response as they all continued to walk towards the throne room where she would then send off Shining Armor to fetch a couple of his best guards. She couldn't help but feel as if this magical force was something that possessed more power than her and her sister even combined. In addition, some strange thought plagued her mind that this evil power was even becoming stronger than the power of the 'Elements of Harmony'. The thoughts scared her deeply. A cold and chilly shiver crept down Celestia's spine of all a sudden. She had the sudden feeling as if she was being watched by something. She paused and turned towards one of the many high windows of the castle. However, her vision met nothing but the bright blue sky and the lazy white clouds that slept with it. Her long stare had caused the others to turn their heads as well. Like Celestia, they saw nothing but the relaxing sky. "Sister, what is wrong?" Princess Luna asked with concern. "Nothing…it's nothing," Celestia responded as she turned her attention back towards the throne room," I hope," she whispered. OXO Ziggy and Zaggy, after waiting for the princesses and the guards to walk away into the building, crawled down from the carriage and hid underneath it. The little spiders would wait until the guards and the ponies were gone before sneaking into the castle. However, the drawbridge slowly started to wind itself back up as the two enslaved spider-bots were waiting. Quickly, they both dashed towards the bridge and leaped from the small gap that stood in between the spiders and the drawbridge which led to the moat of water below. Their legs clinched onto the wooden structure of the drawbridge as it slowly descended upwards until it sealed shut. Their plan changed. Slowly, they began to climb from the tip of the drawbridge to the side of the wall of the Canterlot castle. Their movement was quick and silent. Thankfully they were had to see thanks to their small size but the glowing aura around their bodies made them easier to identify if a guard was to turn their way. However, their speed made up for their appearance as they sprinted like a cheetah across the walls until they made it to the first window. The first story window was blocked off by large glass. Ziggy and Zaggy both knew that they could easily break the glass, but the risk of blowing their cover and jeopardising their mission made them consolidate another plan. Both spiders decided to peer through the window and they spotted the four ponies speaking to each other. As they watched, they noticed one of their primary targets, Princess Celestia, was turning to look at their position. They quickly scampered to side of the window to avoid being seen, and crawled around to try and find another entry that wasn't blocked and wouldn't make any noise that would attract unwanted attention. For five minutes they continued to scramble to the right of the castle until they met another window, open, which led to the throne room. They spotted the four targets moving down the room. One of their main targets, Princess Celestia, walked forward and sat down on her throne. From their perspective, Princess Celestia seemed extremely curious with all the windows. She constantly looked up at them which forced the two spider-bots to retreat back slightly. Things were going to be difficult for Ziggy and Zaggy as the suspicion and sudden paranoia of Princess Celestia had put them behind schedule. Retreating back to avoid detection, a sudden small black aura projected from the eyes of Zaggy. The aura started to create a live image of a small King Sombra. "My mighty CLAW army is ready to attack the Crystal Empire. Have you taken care of the three princesses?" King Sombra piped up from his holographic image. Ziggy and Zaggy stared at their master. "Well?" The angered King asked in an assertive tone. The two enslaved spider robots remained as still as statues. "Useless!" Sombra hissed in hesitation. His magic forced his perspective to flip from Ziggy and Zaggy to what they were seeing from the window. King Sombra released a low growl as he saw his archenemies discussing from the throne room. Knowing that the delay of the infiltration of Canterlot castle would cause a small dilemma in his plans, King Sombra sighed in agitation. "Not entirely what I had planned…but no matter. Continue with your mission, slaves. I will check again on you and Maximus and Brutus to see if your tasks have been completed. Do not disappoint me!" The aura that illuminated from Zaggy's eyes suddenly disappeared. Still as emotionless as ever, Ziggy and Zaggy turned their attention back onto their primary targets. Ziggy and Zaggy continued to study their targets while they prepared their Tasers for elimination. From what they observed, there were two guards standing guard beneath Princess Celestia's throne. If they were to reach Celestia then they would have to eliminate any side threats that could possibly jeopardise their goal. Before long, Cadance, Shining Armor and Luna went their separate ways around the castle which left Celestia alone with the exception of her two guards. Spotting their moment, they quickly climbed through the window and into the castle and dashed down the wall. They hid behind the closest thing they could find; Ziggy scurried behind a small statue whilst Zaggy fled behind a long curtain that fell from one of the windows and nearly kissed the floor. Quietly, they both peered out from their hiding positions to spy on their targets. Celestia seemed to be writing on a few new papers that had been left for her. The guards stood like statues as they continued to guard their beloved ruler. There was no other guard in sight that could compromise their assault. All they required now…was the right moment to strike. OXO "In lighter news, I heard that my most faithful student has invited you to spend the day with her and her friends." Princess Celestia said whishing to change the mood of the subject into a happier one. "Oh yes! It will be the first time I will be able to see Twilight without the fate of Equestria being put at risk," Cadance responded happily. But her smile was outlasted when Celestia shot a look of annoyance at her. Celestia meant no harm with her vicious glare but she was annoyed at the fact that Cadance had forgotten for a split second of the subject that they were just on. Cadance apologised. "Should we tell Twilight Sparkle about your worries, sister?" Luna asked. "No," Celestia started," she doesn't need the burden right now. Plus we do not know for sure if I am correct, but I have a strong feeling that I am correct. I wish I was wrong…but I just know." As they continued to speak, Celestia's throne stood idle at the top of the small stairs. Rested on the cushion of her throne were important papers that needed her attention. Celestia sighed as she saw the pile. She used her magic to remove them as she took her place upon the throne. However, her eyes averted themselves to the windows above her. The shivering feeling crept its way back down Celestia's spine once more. She couldn't help but feel as if something was watching her. Constantly, she looked between her sister and the married couple and the windows. Luna looked on in concern at her sister. "If you'd please excuse me, I have important duties to attend to. I will hopefully see you, Cadance, before you depart for Ponyville. And Shining Armor, please could you fetch your fastest Pegasi to me at once!" Celestia ordered. Shining Armor saluted and walked left with his wife whilst Luna walked to the right. She quickly turned around to look at her sister who had already started to sign of papers. "I will be in my quarters if you need me, sister," Luna told calmly. Princess Celestia turned to look at Luna and gave her a graceful smile and a nod. The princess of the night returned the nod back and walked off and out of the throne room. Celestia was alone with the exception of the two guards that stood completely motionless. Celestia turned her attention back to the papers and began signing them. However, a sudden noise clutched her attention. The sound of small scampering feet patting on the ground alerted the guards below her as well. Immediately hostile, the sprung into their battle stance and were ready to fight whoever the infiltrator was. The princess of the sun continued to look frantically at the room around her. But her attention switched…when one of her guards screamed!
Chapter 4The second guard had no time to react as Zaggy jumped onto his back and viciously zapped him until he was knocked out. Ziggy had already dealt with the first guard and was scurrying his way up to the startled princess. Zaggy was quick to follow. Princess Celestia stared in disbelief at the two small spiders advancing her way. However, her instincts were quick as she quickly used her magic to transport herself into the air right as Ziggy had tried to lunge at her. Her wings kept her in the air and balanced. She tried to get a better look at her attackers but the adrenaline that shot through her caused her to become less focused on specific details of her attackers and more on herself. But what she could make out from the small identification of her attackers, while preparing her superior magic in order to combat the intruders, was that they looked a lot like spiders and the red aura that cloaked around them made them more noticeable to her. The sudden strange presence that she had been feeling all through the day suddenly came back to her right as the spider bots had revealed themselves. "Who and what are you creatures!?" Celestia demanded with her authority. Ziggy and Zaggy ignored her question. Ziggy was staring up at the princess from where he had lunged and landed on the back rest of the throne. With the primary objective still in focus, Ziggy quickly dismounted from the throne and began climbing up the left side of the inner castle wall. Zaggy, whom had finished zapping the injured guard, spotted the floating princess glaring angrily at Ziggy and he noticed her charging up her horn. Following Ziggy's example, Zaggy began clawing his way up the inner right side of the castle wall until he had reached the roof. While Zaggy was making his way to the roof, Princess Celestia had started firing her powerful magic at Ziggy. He was forced to scurry sideways along the wall which prevented him from climbing directly upwards, but his scapegoat was what Zaggy needed in order to pry closer to the unsuspecting princess. Scurrying closer towards the princess, Zaggy's Taser released a small burst of energy in preparation for the full sting. However, before Zaggy could make his pounce on Celestia, the sound of two giant doors suddenly opened and revealed Shining Armor, Princess Cadance and the six best Pegasi guards. They gasped as they firstly looked at their princess battling with the small robotic spider on the left side of the wall. Then they noticed their comrades beaten on the floor with shocked looks in their eyes. Zaggy knew that they were going to jeopardise their whole mission if they were allowed to intervene. Picking Shining Armor as his target, he pounced downwards. OXO "Protect the princess!" Shining Armor ordered his guards. Cadance stood slightly behind her husband as she looked at the scene unfolding in front of her. The six Pegasi guards had quickly flown towards the princess and created a diamond formation around her: two in the front, two in the middle and two at the back with Princess Celestia in the middle. Once they spotted the perpetrator who Celestia had been defending herself from, they set about to quickly capture Ziggy. One of the guards from the front and one from the back had been the ones to try and capture the small spider, but trying to capture Ziggy proved to be more complicated for the guards. When ever they tried to capture Ziggy, their hooves would get zapped with Ziggy's Taser which caused them to retreat back. Ziggy's quick movement also made it hard for the Pegasi guards to focus on where he would be so that they could catch him. The other four guards had escorted Princess Celestia to the other end of the throne room. Shining Armor stepped forward in attempt to help the two guards capture Ziggy with his magic, but something landed on his back! A sharp stinging sensation suddenly flowed into Shining Armor's left foreleg. Zaggy, after picking Shining Armor as his target, clumsily fell onto his back. But the drop caused his to slip slightly over Shining Armor's back and left him clinging onto his red jacket. His jacket ripped from the right shoulder down to his chest as Zaggy unleashed a high voltage of electricity into Shining Armor's right foreleg. Luckily, due to the distance and poor accuracy, Shining Armor's right foreleg wasn't paralysed. "What the-"Shining Armor cried aloud as he felt a sharp sting rage in his right shoulder. Without thinking, he bucked rapidly into the air in attempt to throw Zaggy off. With luck, Zaggy lost his grip on Shining Armor and tore the rest of the shirt on his right. Cadance quickly rushed over to her husband and calmed him before he hurt himself. However, right as she calmed her husband, she noticed that Zaggy had already made another attempt to attack her husband. Using her magic, she caught the small spider mid-air before he could clutch onto Shining Armor's back. Unfortunately, she had brought Zaggy just slightly in range for him to use his Taser on her nose. Cadance gasped and released Zaggy as she touched the tip of her nose with her hoof. The assault of his wife caused Shining Armor to grow incredibly furious. Turning to face the fleeing attacker, he focused his magic and clutched Zaggy before he could scale the walls. In an instant, Shining Armor forced his magic to drag the helpless spider underneath his hoof before Shining Armor crushed him. Zaggy was left in pieces and the red aura escaped out of the closest window. The red eyes shut down and changed into an empty black colour of nothingness. Ziggy halted his tracks as he spotted his fallen counterpart and realised that he had been trashed into pieces. With Zaggy compromised and destroyed, Ziggy had failed his mission in eliminating the princesses and had to return back to his master. Consequently, Ziggy being distracted by the termination of his comrade had given one of the guards enough time to quickly snatch Ziggy by surprise. The guard held Ziggy upside down and away from his face so that he could not Taser him. He brought the prisoner over to Celestia who used her magic to safely hold him at a distance. Ziggy's legs waved frantically all over the place as he tried his best to escape the grasp of the princess. Ziggy even tried to use his Taser in attempts to escape, but his efforts were futile against the supreme clutch of Celestia's magical grasp. But the struggling of Ziggy stopped when he heard a voice boom inside him. "You have failed me! The mission was so simple, but you were too weak and futile to do my bidding! You are a worthless fool! I have no need for you any longer, pathetic spider…but your failure is only a small price to pay for the invasion of Equestria. No matter what happens, I will take Equestria, and your failure and ignorance will not stop me!" The voice of King Sombra echoed all over. The mystical red aura suddenly vaporised from Ziggy's body, leaving him as an empty mechanical shell without a controller. Celestia gasped as she saw the red aura flee and escape outside one of the windows. The simple black spider's legs held in place which resembled his idleness. Princess Cadance slowly walked over to Celestia along with her husband. She quietly whispered into his ear… "What is it?" "I-I don't know, Cadance," Shining Armor responded quietly and curiously. Princess Celestia, after watching the aura escape outside, looked deeply at the empty spider machine. The feeling of danger that Princess Celestia felt when the red aura was around the machine was gone and she felt more relaxed around it. Slowly, she brought Ziggy closer to her eyes. "What are you?" She asked.
