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Ponyville Apartments: Rescue at Castle Midnight

By: ChocolateChipPancake on Jun 9th, 2013  |  syntax: None  |  size: 56.70 KB  |  hits: 149  |  expires: Never
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  1. > Several men sit around a table, playing cards to pass the time.
  2. > One of them suddenly stands up and shows his cards.
  3. "Four of a kind!" he sneers. "Read 'em and weep, boys!"
  4. "That's bullshit!" says the one to his right. "He's gotta be cheating!"
  5. "Maybe. But you still play like a wuss," comments another. "Goddamn faggot."
  6. "What the fuck did you just fucking say about me?"
  7. "I believe he said that you're a homosexual," says the one across the table.
  8. "You little bitch! I'll have you know that I-"
  9. "SHUT UP AND SIT THE FUCK DOWN, ALL OF YOU!" roars the biggest one among them.
  10. > Someone knocks at the door. They all fall silent.
  11. > There aren't any scheduled deliveries tonight.
  12. > Immediately, the men reach for their weapons.
  13. "You two, check it out," says the big man.
  14. > Two of them stand up from the table.
  15. > One stands to the side of the door holding his automatic rifle.
  16. > The other readies his shotgun as he peeps out the mail slot.
  17. "Good evening," says a female voice.
  18. > A young girl with long pink hair is standing outside.
  19. > The man lowers his weapon slowly.
  20. "Who the hell are you?" he grunts.
  21. "Oh! W-Well, that is..."
  22. > She mumbles something quietly.
  23. "Speak up! What do you want?"
  24. "Eep!"
  25. > She steps back and starts fidgeting nervously.
  26. > But after taking a deep breath, she speaks.
  27. "C-Could you please let me inside? It's really cold out here."
  28.  
  29. ---
  30.  
  31. > The man slams the mail slot shut.
  32. "I guess that's no, then."
  33. > Fluttershy sighs sadly.
  34. > She turns around and waves her hoof.
  35. > A number of animals step out of the shadows:
  36. > Rabbits, Monkeys, Birds, Lions, Bears, Elephants and much more.
  37. > The yellow pony smiles brightly as she addresses them.
  38. "We're going to do just as we practiced, alright? Don't be shy now~"
  39. > She pulls out a small green flag from her saddlebag.
  40. > Holding it in her mouth, she raises it in front of them.
  41. > Then, she quickly waves it down.
  42. *RUMBLE*
  43. > On her signal, all the animals charge forward.
  44. > The ground shakes violently as the largest ones smash through the walls.
  45. "What the fu-"
  46. > A monkey jumps on the first human's face, while a second monkey grabs his gun.
  47. "Get it off me! Get it-"
  48. > The second human raises his weapon, but a bear throws him across the room before he can fire.
  49. "Holy shit is that a-"
  50. "My eyes! Argh! It's in my-"
  51. "Ah, hell no! I ain't paid enough for this-"
  52. > In a few minutes, the rest of them are quickly disarmed or incapacitated.
  53. > The skirmish ends with the humans trapped in a corner by the animals.
  54. "N-Nice lion," mumbles one of the men. "G-Good lion..."
  55. "Grr..."
  56. "There, there," says Fluttershy in a reassuring voice. "My animal friends won't hurt you~"
  57. > She smiles as the lion roars loudly at the captive humans.
  58. "If you play nice, they play nice~"
  59.  
  60. ---
  61.  
  62. > A shot is fired into the air.
  63. > Fluttershy cowers at the sudden noise.
  64. "Tell the animals to back away," says a voice from behind. "No sudden moves."
  65. > A squad of heavily armed humans aim their weapons at the animals.
  66. > They growl angrily in response, but the yellow pony shakes her head.
  67. > Slowly, they back away from the trapped humans while shielding the pegasus.
  68. "That's it. Good girl. Just give yourself up before anybody-"
  69. *SLAM*
  70. > Without warning, everything goes dark.
  71. "W-What's going on? Who turned out the lights?"
  72. "Oh shit! Shit! It's happening!"
  73. "Calm down and wait for the emergency system."
  74. > After a minute, the entrance is illuminated by red lights.
  75. > But all of the animals are gone. Only the entrance guards remain.
  76. "Hey! You guys alright back there?"
  77. > They don't answer. They simply stay in the corner, looking terrified.
  78. "I got a real bad feeling about this, Sarge..."
  79. "Shut up and stay in formation. We're not about to-"
  80. > Something suddenly swoops down and grabs the squad leader.
  81. > The soldiers fire their weapons, but it's too late.
  82. > He disappears without a trace.
  83. "...hee hee..."
  84. > A chill runs down their spines.
  85. > The giggling seems to come from every direction.
  86. "...ahahaha..."
  87. > They scan the area, but find nothing.
  88. > Suddenly, they hear the voice of the squad leader screaming.
  89. "GET HER AWAY! GET HER AWAY!"
  90. "...hee hee hee..."
  91. "ARGH!"
  92. > And then, silence.
  93. "Damn it," curses one of the soldiers. "I told you about them ponies, man!"
  94.  
  95. ---
  96.  
  97. "What now? Retreat? Call for backup?"
  98. > The highest ranking private shakes his head and turns to them.
  99. "Spread out and sweep the area!" he says. "You have radios, so use them!"
  100. "B-But the Sarge just-"
  101. "We are soldiers," he cries. "And we are not losing this sector!"
  102. > He looks each of the remaining men in the eye.
  103. > Some hesitate, but they all salute and move out.
  104. > The squad spreads out, regularly reporting in every minute.
  105. "Urk!"
  106. > A faint gurgling sound comes from the left.
  107. "...ahahahahaha..."
  108. > One soldier stops responding with his radio.
  109. "There! I see you! Come back here!"
  110. > The sound of gunfire echoes loudly as someone fires his weapon.
  111. *SPLAT!*
  112. > Three soldiers stop responding with their radios.
  113. "...hee hee...."
  114. > More gunfire. And screaming.
  115. > Sounds like the rest of the men lost it.
  116. "DIE MOTHERFUCKER! DIE! I'LL FUCKING-"
  117. "She's over here! Get her! Get her! Urk-"
  118. "Oh shit man! I told you, man! Them ponies-"
  119. > Then suddenly, silence. None of the others are responding.
  120. > A single soldier goes on alone, aware that he may be the only one left.
  121. > As he peeks around the corner, he spots something moving in the shadows.
  122. "Sarge?"
  123. > Their squad leader is tied to a chair with streamers.
  124. > His mouth is gagged with some kind of candy. Licorice?
  125. > A party hat is tied around his chin with a thin string.
  126. > His eyes widen in terror at his arrival.
  127. "Mmph! Mmph! Mmph!"
  128. > No, that's wrong. There is something behind him.
  129. > The soldier swings his weapon like a club, but he misses.
  130. > And in a split-second, something pink knocks him down to the ground.
  131. "Welcome to the party, Mister..."
  132.  
  133. ---
  134.  
  135. "It looks like we lost control over sector 2, sir."
  136. "Order the men to hold the line until we receive orders from the Director."
  137. "Yes, sir!"
  138. "And one more thing."
  139. "Yes, sir?"
  140. > A beautiful blonde woman blocks their path.
  141. "Why is there an unauthorized civilian standing in front of us right now?"
  142. "I-I don't know, sir."
  143. > Her cowboy hat hides her eyes as she grins at them.
  144. "Howdy partner," says the girl. "Looks like ya got a pretty tough lookin' crew there."
  145. > All of the soldiers quickly raise their weapons. None of them heard her arrive.
  146. "Care to prove their worth? Like 'men', of course."
  147. > The officer looks her in the eye carefully.
  148. > He smiles. This might prove to be interesting.
  149. "Lower your arms!"
  150. "B-But sir!"
  151. "Batons only," he says. "I want this one alive."
  152. > At those words, the soldiers put down their guns and pull out steel batons.
  153. > They slowly approach the girl from several directions.
  154. "That's more like it," she says. "Let's see how strong y'all really are."
  155. > One of them charges, swinging his baton wildly.
  156. > The girl easily dodges his attack and kicks at his knee.
  157. *CRACK*
  158. > The soldier crumples on the ground, screaming in pain.
  159. > His leg is now bent the wrong way. How horrifying.
  160. "Oops," says the girl. "Maybe I should hold back a bit, heh."
  161.  
  162. ---
  163.  
  164. > Two more soldiers rush forward, each attacking from a different side.
  165. > But they are too slow. The blonde girl moves with ridiculous speed.
  166. *CRACK*
  167. > In a split-second, she strikes the chest of the nearest soldier.
  168. > He flies across the hallway like a ragdoll thrown by an angry child.
  169. *SWISH*
  170. > Before he lands, the girl does a leg sweep on the other soldier.
  171. > The large man falls unceremoniously on his face with a sickening crunch.
  172. "..."
  173. > Neither of them are moving. The other soldiers start backing away.
  174. > The girl turns and grins at the men. The officer stops smiling.
  175. "Uh, sir? Your orders?"
  176. "Fools! Attack the girl at the same time and pin her down!"
  177. "B-But sir!"
  178. "Don't hold back! She isn't human!"
  179. > Twelve men begin circling around her cautiously.
  180. > She doesn't react or try to escape. Instead, she pulls out a length of rope.
  181. "Now!"
  182. > At the signal, they attack from all sides.
  183. > Without hesitation, the girl lassoes the legs of two of the soldiers together.
  184. > And as they fall on their faces, she trips a third with the rope.
  185. "You're dead now, bitch!"
  186. > The largest soldier raises his weapon, but he misses as he swings down.
  187. > She pulls out another length of rope and lassoes him by the neck.
  188. "Urk! C-Can't breathe! H-Help!"
  189. > The girl strikes at three other soldiers with her legs while strangling him.
  190. > After the large one passes out, he makes quick work of the remaining men.
  191. > Then, she turns back towards the officer and the two remaining soldiers.
  192. "Is that all y'all are good fer? Gotta say that I'm a mite disappoint-"
  193. *click*
  194. > She stops mid-sentence. All three men have their guns aimed at her.
  195.  
  196. ---
  197.  
  198. > The blonde girl's expression darkens.
  199. "Weren't we goin' to settle this like 'men'?"
  200. "That only applies if you're human, Miss."
  201. > The officer grins smugly.
  202. "Now I suggest that you surrender quietly."
  203. "And if I refuse?"
  204. "Then, we'll shoot your legs and drag you to a holding cell."
  205. > She glares at the three men angrily. Then, she sighs.
  206. "Very well, then. Guess I don't have a choice."
  207. "That's a good girl. Now just walk this way and-"
  208. > Suddenly, one of the soldiers swings his weapon at the officer.
  209. *WHACK*
  210. > He quickly knocks out the other soldier as well.
  211. *CRACK*
  212. > The blonde girl gasps in surprise as the remaining soldier turns around.
  213. "Applejack, dear! Be thankful that I was passing through!"
  214. > She recognizes that voice immediately.
  215. "R-Rarity?"
  216. > A white unicorn with purple hair now stands in place of the soldier.
  217. > Her gun glows slightly as she levitates it with her magic.
  218. "Seems like my studies into fashion and the human form paid off, did it not?"
  219. "That's amazing! Why didn't you tell us you could do that?"
  220. "A lady must have her secrets~"
  221. > Rarity trots toward the unconscious officer.
  222. > She uses her magic to search him until she finds his keycard.
  223. "Pardon me, but I must be off," says Rarity. "I have a different assignment."
  224. > With a wink, her horn glows once more.
  225. > She transforms into the form of the human officer.
  226. > Applejack gives her a wave as she walks toward the elevators.
  227.  
  228. ---
  229.  
  230. > A pair of soldiers perk up at the officer's arrival.
  231. "S-Sir? Weren't you leading the men downstairs?"
  232. "That's correct, Private. And now I'm here."
  233. "But, sir? There hasn't been any attack reported on this floor."
  234. "Good question. Why indeed?"
  235. "We can't let you pass without clearance, sir!"
  236. "Perhaps I should get the Director to explain my instructions, then?"
  237. "Eh? T-The Director!?"
  238. > The officer sighs and shakes his head. He pulls out a mobile phone from his pocket.
  239. > The guards glance at each for a moment before stepping back.
  240. "N-No need for that, sir!"
  241. "T-That's right! Just go right ahead, sir!"
  242. > The officer smiles and lowers his mobile phone.
  243. "Good work, men," he says. "Make sure no unauthorized personnel get through here."
  244. > They give him a salute as he walks into the restricted area.
  245. > After a few minutes, one of the guards addresses the other.
  246. "Don't you think that his voice sounds kinda funny today?"
  247. > The other guard smirks and shakes his head.
  248. "Dude, he always sounds like that. Some even mistake him for a girl on the phone."
  249. "Really? I thought it was just me!"
  250. "Nah, bro. But don't let him hear you talking about it."
  251. "Why not?"
  252. "The last one who joked about his voice ended up on clean-up duty for a month."
  253. "Yikes!"
  254.  
  255. ---
  256.  
  257. "It's me, dear. I found the password."
  258. > "Thanks, Rarity. What is it?"
  259. "Waffles are better."
  260. > An unfathomable blind rage suddenly flows through my veins.
  261. > I barely manage a response as I begin foaming at the mouth.
  262. > "W-What, did, you, say?"
  263. "The password is: WafflesR_bett3r."
  264. > Rarity carefully spells it out over the phone.
  265. > I sigh in relief, not fully sure why I got so angry.
  266. > Very angry. Weird. But I digress.
  267. > "So where did you find it?"
  268. "It's hand-written on a sticky note beside the computer."
  269. > I type out the password and chuckle as I gain access to the security system.
  270. > Can't believe there are still people who make this mistake.
  271. > "Great work, Rarity. Now just lay low while we locate the holding cells."
  272. "Of course, dear. Take care, both of you."
  273. > I pocket the mobile phone and start navigating the system interface.
  274. > The software looks fairly new, as if configured only a short time ago.
  275. > After a few minutes, I find some maps and diagrams.
  276. > Twilight looks over my shoulder and frowns.
  277. "Basement Level 5? I thought you said that this place was a warehouse."
  278. > "It was. But it looks like it was recently renovated."
  279. "How recently?"
  280. > "Probably a few months back. Let's see this place was used for."
  281. > I quickly breeze through some of the recent files and records.
  282. "What are all these humans doing here, anyway?"
  283. > After a few minutes, I frown at what I find.
  284. > "Looks like this is a restricted laboratory and experimentation facility."
  285.  
  286. ---
  287.  
  288. "WHAT!? You mean that these humans were experimenting on ponies!?"
  289. > The purple unicorn looks fairly agitated.
  290. > "Calm down, Twilight. We don't know that for sure."
  291. "Where did they keep Rainbow? We need to get her out of here!"
  292. > My fingers glide across the keyboard as I continue searching the system.
  293. > Suddenly, the unicorn pony taps my shoulder.
  294. "Wait," she says. "Go back a few pages."
  295. > I backtrack until she tells me stop.
  296. > There is a single, reinforced holding cell on Basement Level 3.
  297. "Check the security notes on that room."
  298. > I pull up the room description.
  299. > "No windows. Tiny air vents. Double steel doors. Reinforced concrete. Huh?"
  300. "What is it?"
  301. > "A custom humidity and temperature control system. Why would they include that?"
  302. > Twilight bites her lip, looking worried.
  303. "It's just a guess, but..."
  304. > "But, what?"
  305. "Back in Equestria, certain enchantments were used for dangerous prisoners."
  306. > She frowns, as if recalling an unpleasant memory.
  307. "There was one used for pegasi that would keep the air dry and warm."
  308. > "Why would they do that?"
  309. "Skilled pegasi could create fog or ball lightning with just a little moisture."
  310. > "You mean that they're keeping Rainbow in this cell?"
  311. "That is highly likely," says the unicorn. "But then..."
  312. > The same question pops into both of our heads.
  313. > How do these people know how to effectively imprison a pegasus pony?
  314. > I shake my head and turn back to the security system.
  315. > "Let me see what else I can find on this thing."
  316.  
  317. ---
  318.  
  319. "ACCESS DENIED. AUTHORIZATION LEVEL INSUFFICIENT."
  320. > "Well that's odd."
  321. > I try accessing other records related to the lab experiments.
  322. > But to no avail. I keep getting the same error message.
  323. "What's wrong," says Twilight. "Did you find anything?"
  324. > I shake my head as I continue typing.
  325. > "Even with this account, I can't access the information."
  326. "Should we ask Rarity to find a higher ranking officer?"
  327. > "I'm guessing only the Director has full access, but that is too risky."
  328. > Then, another idea pops into my head.
  329. > I quickly check the recently deleted files.
  330. > "Aha! I found something!"
  331. "What is it?"
  332. > "A discarded lab report from last week. Probably a draft."
  333. > Upon restoring the file, I find it completely unencrypted.
  334. > I open the report and read the title aloud.
  335. > "Controlled Levitation Effects on Homo Sapiens."
  336. "Homo Sapiens?"
  337. > "That's our scientific term for humans. Eh?"
  338. > Wait, what? That can't be right!
  339. > I pull out another report from the recently deleted files.
  340. > This is unencrypted as well. I display it on the screen.
  341. > Twilight reads the title aloud.
  342. "Modifying Homo Sapiens Diet with Alchemical Transmutation."
  343. > I quickly turn around to face Twilight.
  344. > She looks pale, and her legs are shaking.
  345. > "What is it? Do you know what this means?"
  346. "A-Again, it's just a guess, but..."
  347. > The unicorn swallows nervously before continuing.
  348. "I think that they're performing magical experiments on humans."
  349.  
  350. ---
  351.  
  352. > "But aren't you girls the first ponies to arrive on Earth?"
  353. > Twilight gives me an awkward smile.
  354. "W-Well, we are the first 'official' unit sent here."
  355. > "Official?" I repeat, frowning. "Then you ponies should be the only ones here!"
  356. "T-That's right. But I've heard other rumors, too. Especially before we left."
  357. > "Rumors? Like what?"
  358. "Like other ponies and humans crossing between our worlds."
  359. > She stares at my eyes for some time, as if trying to tell me something.
  360. > I don't understand it at all. She sighs and continues.
  361. "Sometimes by accident, but sometimes-"
  362. > Before she can explain, another voice suddenly interrupts.
  363. "Hey! What are you two doing here?"
  364. > We turn around to see a soldier pointing his weapon at us.
  365. "This is a restricted facility! Civilians are... H-Huh?"
  366. > He gasps in surprise as his feet rise from the air.
  367. > A faint purple aura surrounds him.
  368. "W-What's going on?" he cries. "I-I don't even-"
  369. > Before he can react, Twilight's horn glows more brightly.
  370. > Using her magic, she tosses the soldier headfirst against the wall.
  371. *SLAM*
  372. > The soldier drops to the ground, unconscious.
  373. > I feel a gentle tug at my sleeve. Twilight gives me a sad smile.
  374. "I promise," she says. "I'll explain everything after this is over."
  375. > The unicorn pony motions for me to follow her.
  376. "But first, we need to rescue Rainbow Dash!"
  377.  
  378. ---
  379.  
  380. > Applejack waves as Twilight and I approach.
  381. "Has everyp0ny arrived?" asks the purple unicorn.
  382. "I jus' got here mah self," says AJ.
  383. > "Any word from the others?"
  384. > Without warning, a hoof taps my shoulder from behind.
  385. "Pinkie Pie, reporting in! We're done playing at the ground floor."
  386. "And Fluttershy, too! T-That is, if no one minds..."
  387. > I smile and pat the pegasus lightly on the head.
  388. > "Are you alright? It wasn't too scary, was it?"
  389. "I had my animal friends with me, so it was fine," says Fluttershy.
  390. > The yellow pony blushes a bit before glancing at Pinkie.
  391. "So where are we headed?" asks the pink pony. "Is it someplace fun?"
  392. > She smiles while carrying a dangerous-looking device.
  393. > Applejack narrows her eyes and points her hoof at it.
  394. "Is that a human weapon?" she asks carefully.
  395. "Don't be silly! Why would I be carrying a human weapon?"
  396. > Pinkie Pie raises the device proudly with both her hooves.
  397. "This is the Pinkie Pie Brand Bubblegum Bazooka!"
  398. "Uh huh," says Applejack. "And what exactly does it do?"
  399. "It ensures that your friends stick around for the after-party, of course!"
  400. "..."
  401. > The pink pony gives us the creepiest smile.
  402. > Remind me never to ignore her party invitations.
  403. > After an awkward silence, Twilight clears her throat.
  404. "T-That's great, Pinkie," she says. "Now we just need to find Rarity."
  405.  
  406. ---
  407.  
  408. "I'm right behind you, dear."
  409. > We jump in surprise. None of us noticed the white unicorn arrive.
  410. "Rarity? Where were you?" asks Twilight.
  411. "I scouted ahead and dealt with the remaining guards."
  412. > "Good to see that you're alright," I add. "Find anything new?"
  413. "Well, it isn't related to rescuing Rainbow, but..."
  414. "Spit it out, Rarity," says Applejack. "It's alright."
  415. > The white unicorn hesitates for a moment, then sighs.
  416. "I overheard some of the humans talk about the other prisoners here."
  417. "Other prisoners?" repeats Twilight. "You mean, other ponies?"
  418. > Rarity shakes her head and lowers her voice.
  419. "They're keeping other humans here. A lot of them."
  420. > Twilight pauses to think. She seems conflicted.
  421. > An uneasy silence follows. Even Pinkie doesn't say anything.
  422. > Then finally, the purple unicorn makes a decision.
  423. "We're going to rescue both Rainbow Dash and the captive humans."
  424. "B-But Twilight," says Fluttershy. "Isn't that too dangerous?"
  425. "I have to agree," says Rarity. "We could be discovered or worse."
  426. > Twilight glances at me for a moment before stamping her hoof.
  427. "Whoever is behind all this remains a major threat to both Earth and Equestria!"
  428. "Not sayin' yer wrong," says Applejack. "But we ain't exactly equipped for this."
  429. "I'm with AJ on this one," adds Pinkie. "A party this big with just the five of us?"
  430. > "You mean the six of us," I say. "Right?"
  431. > The five ponies stop for a moment and stare at me in surprise.
  432. > Twilight watches as one by one, each of the others smile and give her a nod.
  433. > She clears her throat and declares with confidence.
  434. "Alright! Let's shut this place down!"
  435.  
  436. ---
  437.  
  438. "Ugh! I just can't wait to wash my hair after all this is over!"
  439. "Yer hair looks fine, Rarity," mutters Applejack.
  440. "And what I'd do for a decent hooficure!"
  441. "Ooo! Is that a new brand of hoof polish?" asks the pink pony.
  442. "No Pinkie," says Twilight. "That's blood on her hoof."
  443. "B-Blood?" cries Fluttershy. "Oh, my! Are you hurt, Rarity?"
  444. "Of course not," says Rarity. "This isn't my blood, dear."
  445. > The girls continue chatting as we walk down this long hallway.
  446. > According to the floor map, this is the only way to the holding cells.
  447. > Twilight steps away from the others and calls my attention.
  448. "Sorry for getting you caught up in all this," she says.
  449. > "Don't worry about it," I say. "I gotta take care of my tenants, right?"
  450. "..."
  451. > The purple unicorn lowers her voice to a whisper.
  452. "I'm really sorry," she says. "But I haven't been completely honest with you."
  453. > "It's fine. I kinda figured out the whole secret spying thing."
  454. "Intelligence gathering, you mean."
  455. > "Yeah, sure."
  456. "But that's not what I'm talking about."
  457. > "Eh?"
  458. "Remember the time we first met?"
  459. > "You mean that interview a while back?"
  460. > Twilight shakes her head.
  461. "That's not it," she says. "We actually met much earlier. Back when you arrived in Eq-"
  462. > Suddenly, Pinkie Pie appears between us.
  463. "Hey! What are you two whispering about? Ooo! Is it a secret?"
  464. > Twilight Sparkle forces a smile and shakes her head quickly.
  465. "I-It's nothing. Don't worry about it."
  466.  
  467. ---
  468.  
  469. "Hey Twi," says Applejack. "How long is this here hallway supposed to be?"
  470. "We've been walking for ages," whines Rarity. "My hooves are starting to hurt!"
  471. "..."
  472. > The purple pony stops walking and turns around.
  473. > She squints as she looks at the path behind us.
  474. > Then, she faces forward and stares for a while.
  475. "That's strange," she says. "It's like we haven't made any progress at all."
  476. "What do you mean, Twilight?" says Fluttershy. "Do you think we're going the wrong way?"
  477. "No, Fluttershy. This is definitely the path marked on the floor map."
  478. > "Maybe the map is wrong?" I suggest.
  479. "That can't be it. We verified with the other records, remember?"
  480. "I know!" says Pinkie. "Maybe they changed the hallway right after you saw the map!"
  481. > Twilight stares blankly at the pink pony.
  482. "That's ridiculous!" she says. "To do that, they'll have to be using magic!"
  483. > A moment of silence passes. I can almost hear the cogs in Twilight's head turning.
  484. "Wait a second," she says. "That's it! You're a genius!"
  485. "No, I'm not! I'm Pinkie Pie!"
  486. > Twilight closes her eyes and focuses her magic. Her horn glows brightly.
  487. > Suddenly, the hallway starts to warp before our eyes,
  488. > And a few moments later, we find ourselves in front of a large steel door.
  489. > "Uh, Twilight? What just happened?"
  490. "A spatial obfuscation enchantment was put in place," says Twilight.
  491. "What exactly is that supposed to mean?" asks AJ.
  492. > The purple unicorn narrows her eyes.
  493. "It means that humans aren't our only enemies here."
  494.  
  495. ---
  496.  
  497. "What in tarnation?" cries Applejack. "What the hay is this place?"
  498. > We find ourselves standing inside an ancient castle.
  499. > Instead of electric lights, torches and oil lamps illuminate the area.
  500. > Several large banners hang from the walls, each bearing the same symbol.
  501. "Maybe this is one of those old Griffon Kingdom forts," suggests Fluttershy.
  502. "I don't think so," says Rarity. "These banners are definitely of pony design."
  503. > The white unicorn examines them more closely.
  504. "That coat of arms," she says. "Isn't that an old royal family crest?"
  505. "None that I've read about," says Twilight. "But it does look familiar."
  506. > While this discussion is interesting, I clear my throat to interrupt them.
  507. > "Apologies, but I believe there are more pressing issues at hand."
  508. "Like how the heck did they fit a castle inside this building!?" adds Applejack.
  509. > Everyone turns to Twilight. She shakes her head and shrugs.
  510. "Actually, I have no idea," she says. "But I can sense a lot of magical energy here."
  511. "I feel it too," says Rarity. "This place is heavily enchanted."
  512. > Both unicorns look really uneasy. Then, they turn to me.
  513. > I pause for a moment and think about the situation.
  514. > "Magic or not," I say. "We won't find Rainbow without moving forward."
  515. "Heh," says Applejack. "Well said partner! You're not bad, for a human!"
  516. > The orange pony pats me on the back. Really hard. Ouch!
  517. > I force a smile through the pain. This pony doesn't know her own strength.
  518. "Stay on guard, everyp0ny!" says Twilight. "We don't know what lies ahead!"
  519. "Uh, Twilight?"
  520. "Yes, Fluttershy?"
  521. > The yellow pegasus points her hoof at the pony behind her.
  522. > Pinkie Pie glances around nervously. She looks positively terrified.
  523. > "What's wrong, Pinkie?"
  524.  
  525. ---
  526.  
  527. "S-Something is coming," says Pinkie Pie.
  528. > "Huh? What are you talking about?"
  529. > Twilight rushes to the side of the pink pony.
  530. "Is it your Pinkie Sense?" she asks.
  531. > Pinkie Pie nods quickly.
  532. "What exactly is coming?" asks Applejack. "More soldiers?"
  533. > The pink pony shakes her head and covers her head with her hooves.
  534. "S-Something dangerous," she whimpers. "Something really dangerous!"
  535. *click*
  536. > Without warning, a strange female voice speaks from the shadows.
  537. "Welcome to my humble abode, dear 'guests'."
  538. > The torch flames flicker ominously as it speaks.
  539. "You have done well to come this far. I applaud your abilities."
  540. > Twilight steps forward and calls out to the shadows.
  541. "Who are you?" she cries. "Why are you doing this?"
  542. > The voice replies, as if sneering.
  543. "If you want to find your answers," it says. "Come to the throne room."
  544. > The purple pony grits her teeth.
  545. "I'll be waiting, my little ponies..."
  546. > Eerie laughter fills the castle halls. And then, silence.
  547. > A shiver runs down my spine. But Twilight maintains composure.
  548. "Don't let her scare you," she says. "We've defeated villains before."
  549. "R-Right!" pipes in Fluttershy. "B-But, we don't have the Elements this time..."
  550. "We don't need no flashy trinkets to fight evil," says Applejack.
  551. "And besides, everything is going smoothly so far," adds Rarity.
  552. "..."
  553. > Pinkie Pie stays uncharacteristically silent.
  554. > We step deeper into the castle, unsure of what lies beyond.
  555.  
  556. ---
  557.  
  558. "Y'know, Twi?" says Applejack. "I'm gettin' real sick of these long hallways!"
  559. > The purple unicorn sighs and shakes her head.
  560. "Just be thankful these aren't stairs."
  561. > We walk along a hallway filled with empty suits of armour.
  562. > All of them are designed for ponies of varying sizes.
  563. > Rarity points out one of the nearby displays.
  564. "Amazing! I haven't seen pieces like these since my visit to the Canterlot Museum."
  565. "What's so special about these hunks of metal?" asks AJ.
  566. "These are rare historical finds!" she says. "And they are in such good condition, too."
  567. > The white unicorn's eyes twinkle excitedly.
  568. > But before she can ask, the purple unicorn clears her throat.
  569. "We're here to save Rainbow and stop these experiments," reminds Twilight.
  570. "But it won't hurt to collect just one or two-"
  571. "We don't have time for treasure hunting, Rarity!"
  572. > The white unicorn lowers her head dejectedly.
  573. > Twilight covers her face with her hoof.
  574. "Okay, fine!" she mutters. "You can collect a few 'souvenirs' after we're done."
  575. > Rarity squeaks in delight and starts walking ahead of the group.
  576. > "By the way, Twilight. Can I ask you something?"
  577. "Go ahead."
  578. > "Do you ponies live in castles like these back in Equestria?"
  579. "Of course not. All of us live in a nice small town called Ponyville."
  580. > "Ah, I see."
  581. > She lowers her voice to a whisper.
  582. "I'd love to show you around again, if you'd like."
  583. > "Sure, no problem. Huh? Wait-"
  584. > Suddenly, a shrill scream fills the hallway.
  585.  
  586. ---
  587.  
  588. > "Rarity! What's wrong!?"
  589. > The white unicorn just points her hoof toward the end of the hallway.
  590. > Two suits of armour stand on either side of the door like a pair of guards.
  591. "T-They were..."
  592. "What happened?" asks Twilight. "Why did you scream?"
  593. > While the other ponies try to calm Rarity down, I take a closer look.
  594. > Unlike the rest of the armour displays along the hallway,
  595. > These two suits were made for humanoids, rather than ponies.
  596. > "That's strange."
  597. > The one on the left is large and wide, as if made for a seven foot tall giant.
  598. > Its plates looks thick enough to stop swords, spears, arrows and possibly gunfire,
  599. > And it is holding a two-handed mace that looks large enough to break through walls.
  600. *click*
  601. > In contrast, the one on the right is small and slender to allow fast movement.
  602. > It is mostly made up of chain mail, with metal plates over vital areas,
  603. > And it is holding a pair of short swords that look newly sharpened.
  604. > "Hmm..."
  605. *click*
  606. > Then, I notice it. Very slowly, I take a few steps back.
  607. > "Umm, girls?"
  608. "Not a good time," says Twilight. "Rarity just fainted!"
  609. "Give her some room!" cries AJ. "She needs air!"
  610. > I watch in horror as the two suits of armor begin moving on their own.
  611. > The larger one lumbers forward, the ground shaking with every footstep.
  612. > The smaller one starts walking on the ceiling, seemingly unaffected by gravity.
  613. > "I think we may have a problem."
  614.  
  615. ---
  616.  
  617. > A slender female silhouette slowly coalesces from the shadows.
  618. > It stands behind the two heavily armored knights.
  619. "Everyp0ny!" says Twilight. "Get behind me right now!"
  620. > She pulls me back with magic as the others follow her order.
  621. > Applejack carries Rarity, who remains unconscious, on her back.
  622. > Twilight's horn glows momentarily as she puts up a forcefield around us.
  623. "You did well against the humans," says the shadow. "As expected from Celestia's agents."
  624. "What!?" cries Twilight. "How do you know about the Princess?"
  625. > The shadow laughs ominously. Her voice echoes along the halls.
  626. "We've known about you ponies long before you were even sent here."
  627. > A chilling breeze suddenly blows through the corridor. A few of the torches go out.
  628. "But enough talk! Time for you girls to witness the fruit of our latest experiments."
  629. > The shadow's form begins to disperse as she speaks.
  630. "Careful now. Modified humans tend to be a little... unstable."
  631. "Modified humans?" repeats Twilight. "T-These things are human?"
  632. > Suddenly, the larger one starts angrily stomping its foot.
  633. > The ground shakes violently at the impact.
  634. "ENOUGH WAIT!" it bellows. "ME WANT SOFT ONE!"
  635. > With a loud cry, it rushes forward and raises its mace above our heads.
  636. "GET OUT MY WAY!"
  637. > The armored giant swings its weapon down with full force.
  638. *BANG*
  639. > The mace bounces off the shield, and the giant takes a step back in surprise.
  640. > Twilight's forcefield only barely stops the attack.
  641. "Ugh, he's too strong!" cries the unicorn. "Everyp0ny, scatter!"
  642. > At those words, the forcefield vanishes.
  643. > Fluttershy and Pinkie dash to the left.
  644. > Twilight and I quickly run to the right.
  645. > Applejack lowers Rarity beside her and stays behind.
  646. "I ain't afraid of you!" she cries. "Get outta our way, ya freak!"
  647. > The rest of us turn around and watch in horror as the giant raises its mace.
  648. *SMACK*
  649. > In one quick swing, it knocks the orange pony across the corridor.
  650. > "APPLEJACK!"
  651.  
  652. ---
  653.  
  654. "PUNY PONY," says the giant. "NOW SOFT ONE MINE!"
  655. > It kneels and reaches for its prize - the unconscious white unicorn.
  656. > But before it can grab her, she vanishes in a flash of purple light.
  657. > Rarity reappears beside where Twilight and I are standing.
  658. "Phew," says Twilight. "That was close!"
  659. > The white pony slowly gets up and rubs her head.
  660. "Oh my! What a terrible dream I had-" she says.
  661. "GRRRAAAAWWWRRRR!!!"
  662. "-or maybe, I'm still having it."
  663. > We watch helplessly as the armored giant rushes right at us.
  664. > Before it can raise its weapon again, something slams into its head.
  665. > The projectile looks like a large chunk of the floor.
  666. "GUH! THAT HURT!"
  667. "Serves ya right, ya big oaf!" cries a voice from behind.
  668. > Applejack trots up to us weakly from a small crater on the floor.
  669. > Her side is bruised and her mouth is bleeding.
  670. > "You alright, AJ?"
  671. "To be honest? I don't think I'm feelin' so good."
  672. > She coughs a bit and forces a smile.
  673. "Haven't been hit like that since Big Macintosh and I had a bit of a scuffle..."
  674. > "And I'm guessing that's a bad thing?"
  675. > Twilight swallows nervously. Applejack forces a smile.
  676. "If that thing can hit that hard," says AJ. "I reckon that only I can stop it."
  677. "SMASH PUNY PONY!" cries the giant.
  678. "Or at least, I can try to slow it down."
  679. > Applejack tips her hat to us before stepping forward to face the giant.
  680. > Before Twilight and I can say anything, Rarity trots up beside her.
  681. "What the hay are you doin'?" asks AJ. "You do realize that it's after you, right?"
  682. "Of course, dear," replies Rarity. "And that's exactly why you need my help."
  683.  
  684. ---
  685.  
  686. > At the other side of the corridor, Fluttershy and Pinkie aren't doing much better.
  687. > In the blink of an eye, the other knight appears right behind them.
  688. "Now have a gander at this little beauty," he whispers.
  689. > Pinkie Pie quickly aims her invention at the knight's face.
  690. "Eat bubblegum!" she cries.
  691. > Without hesitation, she fires at point-blank range. But she misses.
  692. > Her shot hits the nearby display cases, covering them in a sticky mess.
  693. > The knight reappears on the ceiling, standing upside-down.
  694. "I wasn't talking to you. I was talking about your shy little friend."
  695. > Pinkie fires at him again, but she only succeeds in making the ceiling sticky.
  696. "Stop moving around so fast!" she cries. "That's cheating!"
  697. > Without warning, the knight emerges right beside Fluttershy.
  698. "Eeep!"
  699. > The helpless pegasus squeaks in fear as it takes a handful of her mane.
  700. "I've never seen such long, beautiful hair before."
  701. > The knight raises a short sword with his other hand.
  702. "Such a shame that I'll have to ruin it."
  703. *slice*
  704. > Pinkie Pie screams in rage as her friend's hair falls to the ground.
  705. > She pulls out a steel rolling pin out of nowhere and throws it at the knight.
  706. "Get away from Fluttershy!"
  707. > The knight vanishes a second before the baking tool could land a hit.
  708. > Pinkie quickly runs up to Fluttershy.
  709. "Are you alright? Did he hurt you?"
  710. "I-I don't think so," whimpers the pegasus. "But he's really creeping me out."
  711. > The knight reappears with his feet flat on the ceiling.
  712. > He is still holding a lock of Fluttershy's hair.
  713. "Your hair really is beautiful," says the knight.
  714. > Suddenly, he holds it close to his helmet.
  715. > Fluttershy and Pinkie watch in disgust as he takes a sniff.
  716. "Guess it's time to have a little bit of fun," he says.
  717. > Pinkie Pie narrows her eyes and grits her teeth.
  718. > She holds her bazooka in one hoof and pulls out a steel grater with the other.
  719. "Okey-dokey-lokey," she whispers. "Let's party..."
  720.  
  721. ---
  722.  
  723. > Twilight and I make a break for the door while the others handle the knights.
  724. "This is our chance," she says. "We need to get to the throne room and put a stop to this!"
  725. > She forces the door open with her magic.
  726. > I take a quick glance behind us before following after her.
  727. > Rarity attempts to distract the armored giant by wiggling her flank.
  728. > Applejack lassoes the giant's arms and legs. But it breaks her ropes with ease.
  729. > On the other side, Pinkie Pie fails to land a single hit on the other knight,
  730. > Fluttershy tries to lure him closer, but she only gets more of her hair sliced off.
  731. > "Are you sure about this? Leaving your friends behind like that?"
  732. "They can handle those two," says Twilight. "I hope."
  733. > Behind the door, we find a long spiraling staircase.
  734. > Twilight sighs and shakes her head.
  735. "Ugh!" she says irritably. "Why am I not surprised?"
  736. > "Surprised about what?"
  737. "Just forget it. We better start climbing these stairs."
  738. > The two of us start jogging up the steps.
  739. > "By the way, what did that voice mean by 'modified humans'?"
  740. "From the looks of it, those two were enchanted with powerful pony magic."
  741. > "Pony magic?"
  742. "The big one has strength and stamina that rivals even the strongest earth ponies."
  743. > "And the smaller one?"
  744. "His speed compares with the swiftest pegasi. Plus, he can walk on the ceiling."
  745. > "But why bother with magic on humans? Why not just send in actual ponies to fight?"
  746. "I have no idea! And besides, what kind of pony would conduct such crazy experiments on humans?"
  747. > She suddenly pauses for a moment and sneezes loudly.
  748. > "Gesundheit."
  749. "Ugh! It must be the dust," she says. "But in any case, we've got to hurry!"
  750. > At the top of the staircase, we find a heavy wooden door.
  751. > Twilight carefully pushes it open with her hoof.
  752. > It isn't locked.
  753.  
  754. ---
  755.  
  756. > The two of us enter a large hall decorated with elaborate pomp.
  757. > Its walls are covered with crimson-velvet tapestries and gold gilded mirrors.
  758. > Upon the ceiling is a fresco depicting a winged unicorn descending from the sky.
  759. > A throne lined with jewels is set atop a seven-stepped dais at the far end.
  760. "Impressive. You arrived more quickly than I expected."
  761. > From behind the throne, an unfamiliar female silhouette walks forth.
  762. > I gasp in surprise as I recognize that form.
  763. "Welcome to my castle, Twilight Sparkle!"
  764. > She glances at me with disinterest.
  765. "And friend," she adds, rolling her eyes.
  766. > Twilight steps forward angrily.
  767. "Who are you? Why are you doing this?" she cries.
  768. "That is none of your concern, agent of Celestia."
  769. > "Uh, Twi?"
  770. "What have you done with Rainbow Dash?"
  771. "She shall remain under our custody for the time being."
  772. > "Can I speak to you for a sec?"
  773. "Under whose authority? What do you humans want?"
  774. "What do we want? Well, isn't that cute."
  775. > "Twilight, I really need to-"
  776. > The purple pony turns around irritably.
  777. "WHAT!? Can't you see that I'm talking here?"
  778. > "Well, I just thought you might want to know..."
  779. > I nod my head toward the throne.
  780. > "That you're not talking to a human right now."
  781.  
  782. ---
  783.  
  784. > Twilight raises an eyebrow.
  785. "What are you talking about?" she asks.
  786. > "She's a unicorn."
  787. "A unicorn?" Twilight cries. "Oh, that sneaky little..."
  788. > Without warning, she fires a bolt of magic at the dais.
  789. > It shines brightly for a moment, bathing the room in purple light.
  790. "T-This light! What are you-"
  791. > On the dais now stands a female unicorn in a black business suit.
  792. > She has a purple coat and dark blue hair with a light blue stripe.
  793. > Upon her head lies a silver circlet with a strange crest at the center.
  794. "Aha!" cries Twilight. "So you were a pony, after all!"
  795. "W-What? How could you possibly see through my illusion spell?"
  796. "I couldn't," says Twilight. "But my friend can."
  797. > The other unicorn glares daggers at me.
  798. "Damn human!" she cries. "You've ruined everything!"
  799. > Her horn glows with red light and shadowy miasma.
  800. > Suddenly, a number of razor sharp crystals materialize before her.
  801. "Now I'll just have to cut my losses and kill you both!"
  802. > A dreadful purple mist seeps from the unicorn's eyes.
  803. > The levitating crystals are set alight with fiery purple flames.
  804. > Without warning, she launches a volley of crystal and fire at us.
  805. > I cower behind Twilight as she stands firm and casts a forcefield.
  806. "This magic," she mutters. "It's too strong!"
  807. > The other unicorn grins, her eyes gleaming with malice.
  808. > Her horn glows once more. In an instant, a long crystal lance materializes before her.
  809. "Did Celestia think her agents can stop us! Now, cower before me and-"
  810. *ZAP!*
  811. > Before she can complete her sentence, the unicorn squeaks and drops to the ground, unconscious.
  812.  
  813. ---
  814.  
  815. > A human soldier emerges from behind the unicorn.
  816. > One of his legs is tied with a make-shift bandage.
  817. > He holds something that looks like a modified cattle prod.
  818. "..."
  819. > He stares at us for a moment, his face expressionless.
  820. > With a sigh, he lowers his weapon and starts limping forward.
  821. > But before I can say anything, Twilight teleports in front of me.
  822. "Stay back!" she growls. "Don't come any closer, human!"
  823. > Twilight's horn glows dangerously. The soldier stops and takes a half-step back.
  824. "Relax, Twi!" says a familiar voice. "He's with me."
  825. > Rainbow Dash flutters out from behind the throne.
  826. > She hovers beside the soldier and smiles proudly.
  827. "Dash saves the day again!" she says. "What took you guys so-"
  828. > Without warning, Twilight teleports on top of Rainbow and glomps her.
  829. "You're alright!" cries Twi. "You're alright! You're alright!"
  830. "Of course, I'm alright! I-It's not like I was expecting a rescue party or anything..."
  831. "We were so worried! You could've been..."
  832. > Tears flow freely from Twilight's eyes and she tightens her grip.
  833. "B-But I guess I'm glad you both came anyway," mumbles Rainbow.
  834. > After a few minutes, Twilight finally lets go of her friend.
  835. > Rainbow glances around the room before turning to me.
  836. "So, where are the others?"
  837. > "They are right behind us, slowing down the enemy."
  838. "That's cool, I guess. Should we head back to help them out?"
  839. "Not yet," says Twilight. "We need to free the remaining captives and shut this place down."
  840. "Captives? I thought that I was the only one who got caught."
  841. > "Not ponies. Human captives."
  842. > At those words, the human soldier suddenly interrupts.
  843. "Human captives?" he repeats. "What are you talking about?"
  844.  
  845. ---
  846.  
  847. > A few rooms back, another battle is coming to an end.
  848. "AND STAY DOWN, YAH VARMINT!"
  849. "UGGGHHAAA!"
  850. > Applejack raises her hooves and stomps down on the giant's head.
  851. > She repeats this several times until it finally stops moving.
  852. "Phew!"
  853. > The earth pony pauses to examine her bruises.
  854. "Nice work, Applejack," says Rarity. "I didn't even chip a hoof!"
  855. > AJ turns around, and glares daggers at the unicorn.
  856. "That was a joke, darling."
  857. > Rarity sighs and shows AJ her hoof.
  858. "Actually, I did chip a hoof. Ugh!"
  859. > They both burst out laughing.
  860. > Pinkie Pie pops out between them excitedly.
  861. "Hey girls! Did I just miss a great joke?"
  862. "Pinkie!?" cries AJ. "But I thought you were dealin' with that speedy fella?"
  863. "Oh him? He's back over there!"
  864. > The pink pony points across the room, where the other knight is encased in a cocoon of bubblegum.
  865. > His helmet is barely visible from the pink mess. He appears to have fainted.
  866. > Fluttershy stands beside him, apologizing profusely.
  867. "She had to use 'that' on him," whispers Pinkie Pie.
  868. > AJ shudders at the thought. Rarity quickly changes the subject.
  869. "Who are these humans, anyway? A cult, perhaps?"
  870. > Rarity turns to the armored giant.
  871. > With some difficulty, she manages to remove the helmet.
  872. "T-That can't be!" she cries.
  873. > Rarity quickly gallops to the other knight and removes his helmet.
  874. > She examines his face for a moment. Her eyes widen and she takes a step back.
  875. "Do ya know these fellas?" asks AJ.
  876. > Rarity nods slowly.
  877. "These two tried to foalnap me several weeks ago," says Rarity. "When they were still normal humans, anyway."
  878. > A moment of silence passes as the ponies gather their thoughts.
  879. "Girls?" interrupts Pinkie. "I REALLY think we should get going!"
  880. "What's the rush?" asks Rarity.
  881. "These two aren't it."
  882. "Huh? What do you mean these two aren't it?" cries AJ.
  883. "These two aren't what triggered my Pinkie Sense."
  884.  
  885. ---
  886.  
  887. "Alright. Does everyp0ny-"
  888. > Twilight blushes and corrects herself.
  889. "I mean, does everyone understand the plan?"
  890. > The three of us nod quickly.
  891. "I'll lead the way," says the soldier. "There aren't many guards in the lower-"
  892. > Suddenly, he is surrounded by a faint red aura.
  893. > And without warning, his feet levitate off the ground.
  894. "That can't be good," he mutters.
  895. > He flies headfirst into a nearby wall with a sickening crunch.
  896. > We watch in horror as he drops to the ground, blood oozing from his head.
  897. "Noooo!" cries Rainbow.
  898. > The pegasus quickly speeds to his side.
  899. > She shakes his shoulder and calls out to him, but there is no response.
  900. > From the dais, the formerly unconscious unicorn steps forward and speaks.
  901. "Foolish traitor."
  902. > She grins widely at our surprise.
  903. "Did you really think that I would be defeated so easily?"
  904. "You... You monster!" cries Twilight.
  905. > Her horn glows brightly and starts emitting sparks of magic.
  906. > Twilight looks absolutely furious. However, the blue-maned unicorn just sneers.
  907. "A monster?" she says. "Well, I suppose it takes one to know one."
  908. > The blue-maned unicorn starts laughing maniacally.
  909. > Twilight narrows her eyes in anger.
  910. "I'm nothing like you!" she cries.
  911. > She fires a powerful beam of destructive magic at the blue-maned unicorn,
  912. > Causing a small explosion that shakes the room violently.
  913. > However, her opponent remains unhurt by the attack.
  914. "Oh, is that all? Perhaps I overestimated your abilities."
  915. "..."
  916. > Twilight glances at me.
  917. "Step back," she whispers. "I'll handle this."
  918.  
  919. ---
  920.  
  921. > I quickly retreat back to Rainbow and the fallen soldier.
  922. > The pegasus gives me look of despair as she clutches his hands.
  923. "C-Can you help him?" she whimpers.
  924. > "I'm not sure," I admit.
  925. > She backs off as I kneel down to examine him. I quickly check his condition.
  926. > "He is still breathing, but his head injury is fairly serious."
  927. "Will he be okay?"
  928. > "We need to get him to a hospi-"
  929. *BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!*
  930. > I turn around in surprise. Twilight is firing a continuous barrage of blasts.
  931. > In moments, the dais is reduced to a smoldering crater.
  932. > She fires a few more beams before finally tiring.
  933. "Take that, you monster!"
  934. > To our horror, the blue-maned unicorn steps out of the crater.
  935. > She yawns and gives Twilight a bored look. She looks mostly unharmed.
  936. "Not bad," she says. "I admit you scratched me a bit that time."
  937. > Her horn starts glowing red. Purple mist leaks from her eyes.
  938. "Now it's my turn."
  939. > The blue-maned unicorn fires off a single beam of red magic.
  940. > Twilight manages to put up a forcefield, but the blast easily shatters it.
  941. "That's... not possible!" she says.
  942. "Any last words, agent of Celestia?"
  943. > Twilight collapses to the ground, exhausted.
  944. > I watch helplessly as the blue-maned unicorn lowers her horn to finish her off.
  945.  
  946. ---
  947.  
  948. > The blue-maned unicorn fires a beam of red magic at Twilight.
  949. > A powerful explosion shakes the room, leaving behind a large crater.
  950. > "Twilight!"
  951. "Tsk! Seems like I missed."
  952. > She turns around and frowns. Hovering some distance away is Rainbow Dash.
  953. > The pegasus is carrying Twilight in her hooves. How did she even-
  954. "You did great Twi."
  955. "Rainbow?"
  956. "Now just rest and let me handle this."
  957. > Rainbow flies beside me and lowers her friend.
  958. "Take care of her," she whispers.
  959. > I quickly take Twilight in my arms. She squeaks weakly.
  960. > "What are you planning to do?"
  961. "Save the day, of course!"
  962. > "Wait! How can you even-"
  963. > The pegasus puts a hoof over my lips and gives me a wink.
  964. > Then, she turns to the blue-maned unicorn.
  965. "Nop0ny hurts my friends!" cries Rainbow. "Prepare for a world of hurt!"
  966. "Really now? And what's a weatherp0ny going to do? Make it rain on me?"
  967. > The unicorn laughs loudly, clearly amused at the threats.
  968. > Rainbow rubs her hooves together and licks her lips.
  969. "Time to use one of my special moves!"
  970. > With lightning speed, she starts flying circles around her opponent.
  971. > A tornado begins to form, with the unicorn at the center.
  972. > Twilight forces herself up and shakes her head.
  973. "No Rainbow!" she cries. "Don't do it!"
  974.  
  975. ---
  976.  
  977. > Rainbow Dash flies even faster around the blue-maned unicorn,
  978. > The tornado grows more powerful and it begins roaring violently.
  979. "And now for the finish!" cries the pegasus.
  980. > She pulls out a pack of candy, opens it, and throws its contents into the wind.
  981. "Taste the rainbow!"
  982. > The tiny fruit-flavored sweets are instantly swallowed by the tornado,
  983. > And with their hard sugar shells, they act like shrapnel in the wind.
  984. "Argh!" cries the blue-maned unicorn. "W-What is this? Ow! Ow! Ow!"
  985. > Small cuts and wounds start appearing on the coat of her opponent.
  986. > Rainbow smiles and pauses to gloat.
  987. "Hurts, doesn't it? Be thankful I didn't use razor blades or you'd be-"
  988. "HOW DARE YOU!" howls the blue-maned unicorn. "THAT'S ENOUGH!"
  989. > Without warning, the unicorn's horn glows.
  990. > Her red magic transforms into several giant fly swatters.
  991. > They levitate around the room, swinging violently in all directions.
  992. "Hey! That's not fair-"
  993. > One of them smashes into Rainbow's side, knocking her headfirst into the wall.
  994. > Twilight and I watch as she drops lifelessly to the ground.
  995. > Without her power, the tornado quickly dissipates.
  996. "Foolish pegasus!" says the unicorn.
  997. > Her horn starts glowing. The fly swatters vanish.
  998. > And in their place, a long crystal lance materializes.
  999. > She levitates the weapon and aims it carefully at the fallen pony.
  1000. "Now die, insect!"
  1001.  
  1002. ---
  1003.  
  1004. > The blue-maned unicorn drives the weapon down to impale the pegasus.
  1005. > However, in the last moment, Twilight teleports Rainbow beside us.
  1006. > She wipes her forehead with her hoof.
  1007. "Phew! That was close!"
  1008. > Twilight quickly hops out of my arms and faces the enemy.
  1009. "You dare rise and face me once more?" roars the blue-maned unicorn.
  1010. "We're not beaten yet!" cries Twilight.
  1011. > The enemy growls and fires off a powerful blast of red magic at her.
  1012. > Twilight manages to deflect the attack with a forcefield,
  1013. > But it quickly shatters into pieces.
  1014. > She turns around and gives me a sad smile.
  1015. "I'm almost out of magical energy."
  1016. > "Twilight!?"
  1017. "Looks like I won't be writing today's report," she whispers.
  1018. > A faint purple glow suddenly surrounds Rainbow and the soldier.
  1019. > With a flash of light, they vanish from sight.
  1020. "Please take care of the others,"
  1021. > The same purple glow surrounds me. I quickly realize what she is doing.
  1022. > "No! I'm not leaving you here!"
  1023. "Thank you. For everything."
  1024. > With the last of her magic, she attempts to teleport me to safety.
  1025. > I desperately reach out to her with my hands.
  1026. > "TWILIGHT!"
  1027. "..."
  1028. > Her horn glows brightly as she casts her spell.
  1029. > She closes her eyes to focus.
  1030. *fizzle*
  1031. > And nothing happens.
  1032.  
  1033. ---
  1034.  
  1035. > I sigh in relief. And before I realize what I'm doing,
  1036. > I take Twilight into my arms and give her the tightest hug.
  1037. > She blushes bright red and quickly pushes me off.
  1038. "What?" cries Twilight. "W-What are you doing?"
  1039. > She aims her horn at me once more, but her spell fails again.
  1040. "Ugh! T-That's not possible! There's some kind of interference!"
  1041. > The blue-maned unicorn clears her throat to grab our attention.
  1042. "Pardon me if I'm interrupting, but are you done with your cheesy goodbyes?"
  1043. > Her horn starts glowing red, and purple mist leaks from her eyes.
  1044. > In an instant, dozens of crystal lances materialize around the room.
  1045. > Each of the magical weapons are pointed towards Twilight and I.
  1046. "I do have a schedule to keep," she says. "And I'm already late thanks to you two."
  1047. > Twilight squeaks in fear and slowly steps back.
  1048. > However, in those last moments, I find myself strangely at ease.
  1049. > "Don't worry, Twilight. Everything's going to be just fine."
  1050. "How in Tartarus can you say that in a situation like this!?"
  1051. > The purple unicorn scowls angrily, but I simply smile and pat her head.
  1052. > "Because we're friends."
  1053. "... wait, what?"
  1054. > I take a few steps forward and face toward the blue-maned unicorn.
  1055. > Looking her straight in the eye, I raise both of my arms and smirk.
  1056. > Without hesitation, I say the dumbest possible thing.
  1057. > "Look at me! I'm standing right here! Come at me, you UGLY OLD MULE!"
  1058.  
  1059. ---
  1060.  
  1061. > The enemy howls in anger at those words.
  1062. > Crystal lances come flying from all directions.
  1063. > I feel them break my ribs as they tear through my chest.
  1064. "Noooo!"
  1065. > Time slows down as I painfully crumple to the ground.
  1066. > Twilight trots up to my side with a horrified look.
  1067. "You idiot! What have you done!"
  1068. > Her voice sounds strange as she calls out my name.
  1069. > I open my mouth to laugh, but instead I cough weakly.
  1070. "Don't try to speak!"
  1071. > The metallic taste of blood fills my mouth.
  1072. > She desperately tries to stop my bleeding with her hooves.
  1073. "J-Just relax! I-It doesn't look that bad!"
  1074. > Her horn glows weakly as she tries to cast a healing spell.
  1075. > But both she and I know that it is much too late for that.
  1076. "Don't give up! I-I can still fix this!"
  1077. > Using my remaining strength, I raise my arm to stroke her mane.
  1078. > She looks at me, tears flowing freely down her cheeks.
  1079. > With a weak smile, I whisper to the pony,
  1080. > "Everything's going to be just fine."
  1081. "No! You can't just leave me without-"
  1082. > Twilight's voice fades away as soft ringing fills my ears.
  1083. > My body goes limp, and my vision starts to blur.
  1084. > The last thing I see is Twilight's face.
  1085. > And the world goes white.
  1086.  
  1087. ---
  1088.  
  1089. "Dear Princess Celestia,"
  1090. "I have learned many things during my stay here in the human world,"
  1091. "And I have made many new friendships, while strengthening old ones."
  1092. "While I still find the human world strange and alien to ours."
  1093. "I have come to believe that they are not so different."
  1094. "Humans can smile, laugh and feel joy, just like us."
  1095. "Humans can frown, cry and feel pain, just like us."
  1096. "Humans can grow lonely and desperate, just like us."
  1097. "And I've come to believe that they can learn from their mistakes,"
  1098. "Just like us."
  1099. "I understand that living in harmony with the human world seems impossible,"
  1100. "Especially after this incident that almost started a war between worlds."
  1101. "And while I have received your instructions to return to Equestria,"
  1102. "I have chosen not to return until my work here is complete."
  1103. "Friendship has taught me many lessons,"
  1104. "And one of them is to never leave a friend behind."
  1105. "- My Sincerest Apologies, Twilight Sparkle."
  1106.  
  1107. ---
  1108.  
  1109. > With a sigh, I put down the quill and magically seal the letter.
  1110. > Somep0ny knocks on the door. I quickly trot over to answer it.
  1111. > I can't help but smile at the sight of my best friends.
  1112. "Hey Twi," says Applejack. "Is this a good time to visit?"
  1113. "We brought this lovely fruit basket!" says Rarity.
  1114. "And cake!" adds Pinkie. "You can never have enough cake!"
  1115. "I also brought some fresh flowers," says Fluttershy.
  1116. "Got a few books here," says Rainbow. "Y'know? If you get a little bored."
  1117. > "Thanks, girls. Why don't you all come inside."
  1118. > The five ponies file into the hospital room with their gifts.
  1119. > They glance at each other uneasily until Applejack finally speaks up.
  1120. "Twilight, ya look real tired. Why don't ya head home?"
  1121. > "I'm not leaving him."
  1122. "Ya need some rest. We can take turns watching over-"
  1123. > "I SAID THAT I'M NOT LEAVING, AJ!"
  1124. "..."
  1125. > "I'm sorry, AJ. I just..."
  1126. > I glance at the unconscious human figure lying on the hospital bed.
  1127. > He's been comatose for over a week now. Nothing I try would wake him.
  1128. > The doctors say that it is a miracle that he survived at all,
  1129. > But looking at his pale face, I can't help but begin to tear up.
  1130.  
  1131. ---
  1132.  
  1133. "It's alright, dear. We understand how you feel," says Rarity.
  1134. > "But it's all my fault that this happened!"
  1135. "Stop blaming yourself, Twilight!" says Rainbow. "I hate seeing you like this!"
  1136. "And besides," adds Pinkie. "Rainbow thinks it's her fault too."
  1137. > "Huh?"
  1138. "She's been crying herself to sleep these past nights." says Pinkie.
  1139. "W-What!?" stammers Rainbow. "H-How do you know that!?"
  1140. "Sorry Rainbow," whispers Fluttershy. "I didn't know that it was a secret."
  1141. > Rainbow plants her hoof upon her face.
  1142. > I manage an awkward smile before Applejack changes the subject.
  1143. "So, how's he doing?"
  1144. > "His condition is stable now, but he won't regain consciousness."
  1145. > AJ trots over to the hospital bed and pats his shoulder gently.
  1146. "He saved us all, didn't he? Twilight?"
  1147. > "..."
  1148. > She turns around and stares at me straight in the eye.
  1149. "You never explained how you two defeated that villainous unicorn."
  1150. > "..."
  1151. > After he fainted in my hooves, I felt an incredible surge of energy within me.
  1152. > I don't recall exactly what happened next, but when I came to,
  1153. > Everything around us was reduced to rubble and ash.
  1154. > "S-Sorry, I don't really remember."
  1155.  
  1156. ---
  1157.  
  1158. > Applejack shakes her head and smiles at me.
  1159. "That's alright, Twilight," she says.
  1160. "Just remember that we'll always be here to help," says Rainbow.
  1161. > "Help? What are you talking about?"
  1162. "We know that you're planning to stay," says Fluttershy.
  1163. > "What? H-How did you-"
  1164. "Pinkie Pie found your torn-up draft letters in the trash," explains Rarity.
  1165. "I am the detective!" declares Pinkie.
  1166. "And after talking about it," says AJ. "We've all decided to stay and back ya up!"
  1167. > "B-But I can't have you stay here just because of me!"
  1168. "We all have our own reasons to stay." says Rainbow.
  1169. > "And who's going to watch over Ponyville?"
  1170. "Spike will keep us updated," says Rarity. "He sends me letters almost daily."
  1171. > "How about Princess Celestia's orders?"
  1172. "We'll all send her a letter," adds AJ. "Just like you."
  1173. > "..."
  1174. > I sigh and shake my head.
  1175. "Ugh, fine! But we'll need to come up with a better plan this time."
  1176. > The five ponies cheer loudly at this. I can't help but smile.
  1177. > Suddenly, somep0ny knocks twice. The door opens before we can react.
  1178. > Two male humans dressed in black suits come inside.
  1179. > They both wear dark shades to hide their eyes.
  1180. "Is your name Twilight Sparkle?" asks one of them.
  1181. > I nod nervously. He steps back to reveal a third companion,
  1182. > A familiar-looking pony wearing dark shades and a black suit.
  1183. > She has a mint coat and cyan mane with a white streak.
  1184. > "Umm. Do I know you?"
  1185. "I am new Director of the Agency."
  1186. > She removes her shades, and gives us a wink with her sunglow eyes.
  1187. > The six of us gasp in surprise as we recognize her.
  1188. > "L-Lyra!?"
  1189. "Welcome to Earth."
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