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# Autumn Leaves: Chapter 7 -Les Feuilles Mortes-

By: PaleNarrator on Jun 3rd, 2012 | syntax: None | size: 27.09 KB | hits: 667 | expires: Never
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1. Autumn Leaves
2. Chapter 7
4. "The falling leaves
5. Drift by the window
6. The autumn leaves
7. All red and gold"
9. >The bed you sat on was soft, luxurious.
10. >Applejack sat next to you, and Applebloom sat on your shoulders as she buried her snout into your hair.
11. >It had been only a day after Canterlot's invasion, but the minutes seemed to pass by like hours. Time was coming to a slow standstill as the reality of everything started to settle in.
12. >You were dressed in Canterlot military garb, a mix of black and blue camouflage with Equestria's Emblem emblazoned on your shoulder.
13. >Applejack's hooves were held in your hands as the two of you simply sat with each other in silence as you rested your head against hers.
14. >When Celestia had told Applejack that you would be going to the brunt of the battle, she had immediately objected, stating that if you were going then so would she.
15. >It hadn't gone over smoothly.
17. One Day Earlier
19. >AJ: "What do ya mean, 'the front lines'?"
20. >TIA: "Anonymous will be sent into the heart of the battle, Applejack. He's shown that he is more than capable against Chrysalis' forces, so I'm confident that he will prove a valuable asset to our-"
21. >AJ: "He's not an 'asset'! He's mine! You... you just can't send him off into th'thick of all the fightin' and not expect me t'be there for him!.. Ah'm goin' with him."
22. >TIA: "Applejack, I realize this is hard for you but I must stress the importance of your staying in Canterlot. You are one of the holders of the Elements of Harmony. Without you here in Canterlot we could be-"
23. >AJ: "To TARTARAUS with th'Elements! If Anon goes, then Ah go as well."
24. >She's barring her teeth and her eyes are getting misty as she concentrates her anger on the princess. You leave Soarin' and go to her, taking a knee to get down to her level.
25. >TIA: "Anonymous is not the only one I am conscripting into the armada. Every single able bodied stallion will be called for the war effort. This includes your older brother as well."
26. >AJ: "So yer just sending half of mah family t'die?"
27. >TIA: "Applejack, this is a war."
28. >AJ: "There's a word that Anon would use to describe this, yer highness, and that's FUCKED. This is fucked, and you know it!"
29. >You put a hand to Applejack's cheek and she breaks her stare from Celestia and looks to you, her expressions softer and sadder now.
30. >AJ: "Anon... Anon this is wrong. You can't... you can stay with... please.."
31. >She's breaking down in front of your eyes. It's the first time you've ever seen her on the verge of tears like this.
32. "Applejack... AJ, listen. It's gonna be alright."
33. >AJ: "You don't know that! You could get hurt, or maybe they'll capture ya, or... or..."
34. >You rest your head against hers, bring your other hand to her face as well, holding her softly.
35. "I know. It's not the best of situations, is it?"
36. >AJ: "You don't have to do this. You can just NOT fight, y'all can just stay here in-"
37. "No. I can't do that."
38. >AJ: "But-"
39. "I can't just sit idly by while this war goes on. If Mac has to fight, then I fight. If Soarin' fights, then I fight."
40. >You look Applejack in her watery eyes.
41. "This is my home. I'll help fight for it."
42. >The two of you look into each others eyes as you try to calm her down.
43. >AJ: "Ah could come with you. T'make sure yer safe. Please, Anon, don't do this."
44. >Your soul strains as Applejack quietly pleads with you. Everyone's eyes are on you, even Soarin's, but right now you don't even know they're there. It's just you and Applejack at this point.
45. "It's going to be alright."
46. >AJ: "You don't know that!"
47. "It's going to be alright."
48. >AJ: "You don't... you don't know..."
49. "It's going to be alright."
50. >She clenches her teeth and the tears in her eyes finally roll down her face, as she just gives in to her emotions. You hold her close to you as she cries into your shoulder, her body shuddering.
51. >AJ: "Ah just... Ah just don't want you to be out there without me. Ah SHOULD go with you, ya know that!"
52. "They need you here, sweetheart. You need to stay."
53. >AJ: "Ah don't care what they need... ah need YOU, Anon."
54. "Applejack.."
55. >AJ: "No! No Ah... Ah just..."
56. >You take her chin into your hand, looking at her with a sad smile on your face.
57. "I'm going to be alright."
58. >AJ: "...promise me."
59. "I promise."
60. >AJ: "You've never broken a promise t'me, Anon. Never."
61. "And I don't plan on breaking it anytime soon."
62. >As she looks into your eyes, she finally breaks into a smile, albeit a half-hearted one.
63. >AJ: "Alright... yeah, okay."
64. >You stand up and Applejack turns to Celestia.
65. >AJ: "Princess Ah... Ah'm sorry, about that. It's just-"
66. >Celestia nods at her, smiling.
67. >TIA: "It's alright, Applejack. I understand how you feel. To make things more stable for you, I'll withdraw my conscription of Big Macintosh. That is the best that I can do."
68. >AJ: "That.. thank you, yer highness. It's more than Ah thought I'd get, at least."
69. >TIA: "Anonymous?"
70. >You turn to the royal alicorn and stand to attention, give or take. You just stand straighter than usual you suppose.
71. "Yes ma'am?"
72. >TIA: "Once we finish up the wedding, I'll escort you to our barracks. You'll need to get acquainted to our protocol after all."
73. "Yes ma'am."
74. >TIA: "But until then-"
75. >She motions back to Applejack.
76. >TIA: "Perhaps you should spend as much time as you can with those you care about."
77. >You nod and leave with Applejack to your quarters, and to Applebloom as well. After all, you still had to get her out of the trunk in your room.
79. Present Day
81. >You hold Applejack close to you as you sat on your bed with both her and Applebloom.
82. >AJ: "When... when do they send you out?"
83. "Tomorrow."
84. >BLOOM: "What's gonna happen, Anon? Yer gonna be okay, right?"
85. >You smile up at the tiny filly and ruffle her mane.
86. "You bet, squirt. I'll be just fine."
87. >Applebloom gives a smile, but then frowns.
88. >BLOOM: "Ah'm gonna miss ya, Anon."
89. >You pick her up off your head and give her tight hug.
90. "I'll be back before you know it, Applebloom."
91. >The light from the setting sun cast through your window, sending warm rays of red and gold onto everything within.
92. >Applebloom gives a yawn and looks to you and Applejack.
93. >BLOOM: "Hey Anon?"
94. "Yup?"
95. >BLOOM: "Do you think you could tell me a story b'fore Ah go t'bed? Please?"
96. >You walk Applebloom over and tuck her into your bed, sitting next to her. Applejack joins you at your side.
97. "Alright, what do you want to hear?"
98. >AJ: "How about the Little Seapony? Ya like that one, right?"
99. >BLOOM: "Ah was hopin' that y'all might, well, tell me a story from when you were little, Anon. Maybe one yer pa told ya b'fore you came to live with us, Ah mean."
100. >You look to Applejack and she shrugs, and you turn back to Applebloom.
101. "Um, alright. Lemme think..."
102. >It's been so long since you told Applebloom a bedtime story, let alone remember one from your own childhood. You strain your memories for a story to tell her.
103. >And then, you have it.
104. "..Once there was a tree, and she loved a little boy. And every day the boy would come, and he would gather her leaves and make them into crowns, and play 'King of the Forest.' He would climb up her trunk and swing from her branches, and eat apples."
105. >Applebloom's eyes grow heavy and she lets out a yawn as you continue the story.
106. "They would play hide-and-go-seek, and when he was tired, he would sleep in her shade."
107. >You bring a hand over to Applejack's hoof, holding it tenderly.
108. "And the boy loved the tree..."
109. >You give Applejack a tender kiss on her forehead, and she blushes ever so slightly.
110. "...very much. And the tree was happy."
111. >Applebloom's breathing is steady and peaceful as she slips off into sleep, and Applejack whispers to you.
112. >AJ: "That was nice. Is that the end of it?"
113. "No... no there's more. It's kind of sad, though."
114. >AJ: "Ah'd like to hear it, if'n ya don't mind."
115. >You look to Applebloom who is softly snoring, a small smile on her face, and then nod back to Applejack.
116. >You rise from the bed and lead her out to the balcony of the spire.
117. >The sun casts the sky in an ocean of warm colors, reds and oranges tinting the clouds as Celestia finishes the day.
118. "...but time went by... and the boy grew older. And the tree was often alone. Then one day the boy came to the tree and the tree said, 'Come, Boy, come and climb up my trunk and swing from my branches, and eat apples and play in the shade, and be happy.'"
119. >The story goes on, and the stars are making their way into view when you near the end.
120. >Applejack and you stare out at the distance as you finish the story, her head leaning up against your side.
121. "...and after a long, long time, the boy came back again. 'I am sorry,' sighed the tree, 'I wish I could give you something, but I have nothing left to give. I am just an old stump. I am sorry...' and the boy, now an old man, says, 'I don't need very much now. Just a quiet place to sit and rest. I am very tired.' 'Well,' said the tree, 'an old stump is good for sitting... so come, Boy, sit down. Sit down and rest'..."
122. >You sit down on the balcony and nuzzle Applejack's face tenderly, her expressions soft and caring.
123. "And the boy did... and the tree was happy."
124. >AJ: "...what's that story called?"
125. "The Giving Tree. My dad would read me it sometimes before I went to bed... I'll be honest, I'm surprised I remembered it all."
126. >AJ: "Why's that?"
127. "Well it's just... AJ, it's been, what, near on ten years? I've been a part of your family and world for almost a decade now. I'm going to go fight to defend it soon... I just don't remember a lot of my old life anymore is all."
128. >You stand up and lean against the balcony's railing, the stars shining brightly in the night sky.
129. "You would think you would never forget someone's face, you know?"
130. >AJ: "Anon?"
131. >The moon was bright tonight.
132. "Especially when that person was one of the most important... I just.. it gets harder to remember what he looks like."
133. >Applejack stands by the rail with you, a hoof on your shoulder in comfort.
134. "And I get it. I've been gone for a long time, it's normal... but I don't know how long I'm going to be out there. I don't know if we end this war tomorrow night or next year..."
135. >AJ: "You're afraid you'll ferget what Ah look like?"
136. >...
137. >You nod slowly, still looking at the moon.
138. >Applejack stares at you for a moment, then trots back into your room, rummaging in one of her bags. You hear a quick tear of paper, and she comes back to you.
139. >In her mouth is a phote, torn in half, of you and she during the family reunion in Manehatten.
140. "Why did you tear it?"
141. >She takes the half that has her in the frame and hands it to you.
142. >AJ: "Ah just figured that if ya had a picture of me t'remind you about me, that you'd have a pretty hard time fergettin' what Ah look like."
143. >You look at the smiling face in the ripped photo. He was mid laugh, her eyes slightly closed as she swung an arm around you in a bar.
144. "You'll keep the half with me in it?"
145. >She nods, and you wrap her up into a hug.
146. "That works."
147. >AJ: "Ah thought it would, sugarcube."
148. >The two of you leave the balcony behind, you slipping out of your new uniform and getting into bed with Applejack, Applebloom sleeping soundly between the two of you.
149. >As you both simply looked into each others eyes through the night, you found it rather easy to drift off to sleep.
150. >Applejack looks at the man she's grown to love with all her being, sleeping peacefully next to her little sister.
151. >His breathing was steady and undisturbed.
152. >As her mind raced while looking at him, she finally came to a conclusion.
153. >AJ: "...Anon, Ah now ya can't hear me, but..."
154. >She turns over to her other side, and whispers to herself.
155. >AJ: "Ah'm not lettin' go of you that easily."
157. The Next Day
159. >This chariot was larger than you ever expected.
160. >It was more of an evac chopper than a chariot, but you suppose that's the point.
161. >You step onto the chariot and take a seat next to numerous recruits from within the guard, their spears resting up against their bodies.
162. >They all wore some form of armor, and looked stoic as hell, their eyes facing forward.
163. >You set your gear on the floor in between your legs as Soarin' takes the seat next to you.
164. "Soarin'?"
165. >SOAR: "Yeah man, just got word: I'm part of your squad."
166. >You raise an eyebrow to the blue pegasus, no longer decked in his Wonderbolts uniform, but instead wears a suit of dark black and blue camouflage like you were wearing.
167. "I figured you'd be going along with the rest of the pegasus units. You know, air forces and the like."
168. >SOAR: "Same here, but I guess after I told Celestia about how we ended up falling into the chapel and all, she must have thought we'd work better as a team."
169. "A human and a pegasus go to war. Sounds like the set up to a bad joke."
170. >Soarin' laughs heartily and claps a hoof on your shoulder. Compared to the rest of the "chopper", you two are the liveliest things on board.
171. >What boards the chariot next throws you off just a hair.
172. >A large, grey diamond dog lumbers on board, his face partly covered in a helmet and shouldering a rather large mace. He sits down across from the two of you, taking up two seats.
173. >Soarin' nudges you and whispers.
174. >SOAR: "Yo, man, is that a diamond dog?"
175. "I think so... check out the uniform."
176. >The dog is wearing the same camouflage you and Soarin' wear, complete with the Canterlot crest emblazoned on his shoulder.
177. >He tilts his helmet up over his eyes and looks to the two of you. His voice is deep and guttural.
178. >DOG: "Fifth Squad?"
179. >You nod to him.
180. >SOAR: "That's us, dude."
181. >The dog extends his large paw out to you.
182. >You take it and shake it firmly.
183. >DOG: "Fido."
184. "Anonymous."
185. >FIDO: "What name is flying pony?"
186. >SOAR: "Name's Soarin', nice to meet ya. So how'd you end up here?"
187. >Fido grunts and brings the helmet over his eyes again.
188. >FIDO: "Got caught. Conscripted."
189. "Caught?"
190. >FIDO: "Caught."
191. >SOAR: "Mind elaboratin' just a bit, man?"
192. >FIDO: "Not your business. Fido caught, Fido fight. That all is needed."
193. >You look to Soarin' and shrug with him.
194. "Well in any case, welcome to Fifth Squad."
195. >Fido grunts again, not looking at either of you.
196. >Soarin' laughs.
197. >SOAR: "You were saying this sounded like the set up to a bad joke?"
198. >A human, pegasus, and diamond dog go to war.
199. >If it wasn't the start of a joke then you had no clue what it was.
200. >The chariot takes off from the ground and in an instant you're flying away from Canterlot, the castle and city fading in the distance as you, along with numerous other chariots exit Shining Armor's force field.
201. >One of the recruits across from you pipes up.
202. >"Hey. Do you know where we're headed?"
203. >FIDO: "Princess did not tell you where we go?"
204. >"Uh... no.. I mean, I know we're headed out West, that's for sure. I just don't know where we're being sent to is all."
205. >A soldier beside him speaks up. He's dressed in your uniform as well.
206. >???: "We're being sent to Las Pegasus."
207. >The unicorn meets your eyes and he glares, his black mane ruffled at your sight.
208. >Clockwork.
209. "Fifth Squad?"
210. >CLOCK: "Unfortunately."
211. "Anymore surprise squad-mates I should know about, or are you the last one?"
212. >CLOCK: "Trust me, I could do without being on your team, Anonymous. It's not like I chose to be part of this team, Celestia just assigned me to it."
213. >Soarin' looks for the positive of the situation.
214. >SOAR: "Look on the bright side, at least we have some magic in our squad now."
215. >Fido leans on his knees and looks over to Clockwork, his helmet still covering his eyes.
216. >FIDO: "Horny pony good at fighting?"
217. >CLOCK: "A dog? We have a dog in our squad? That's just perfect."
218. >Fido squints his yellow eyes at clockwork.
219. >FIDO: "Problem with diamond dog?"
220. >CLOCK: "As long as you don't stab me in the back, then no, I don't have a problem with you. You just can't be trusted."
221. >Fido snorts at Clockwork and sits back into his seat.
222. >SOAR: "Well aren't you just a ball of sunshine."
223. >CLOCK: "I don't need a damn attitude from you, okay? So why don't you just shut up?"
224. "Clockwork."
225. >CLOCK: "What?"
226. >His voiced is laced with latent anger.
227. "If we're going to be in the same squad then we have to put our petty shit aside. We're a team now."
228. >CLOCK: "You're trying to talk me down? You? Yeah, you can go blow it out your flank."
229. >SOAR: "Oh I can already tell we're all going to get along just fine."
230. >A silence makes its way into the chariot, no one making anymore conversation.
231. >The recruit speaks up again.
232. >"So... why Las Pegasus?"
233. "The Queen and the majority of her army was sent in that direction; towards the badlands. We're to make base in Las Pegasus and maintain the perimeter there. No one gets past us."
234. >"What if they go around it? I mean, they could just ignore the city all together and get past us somewhere else.."
235. >Soarin' gives a smug smile and leans in towards the recruit across the deck.
236. >SOAR: "You've never been to Las Pegasus, have you kid?"
237. >"Uh... no, sir."
238. >SOAR: "Well Changelings, see, like to feed on love. And Las Pegasus... well, let's just say there's a lot of love going on in that city."
239. >Fido lets out a grunt of a laugh, and you chuckle as the recruit looks at all of you confusedly.
240. >"What does that mean?"
241. >SOAR: "Trust me, kid, you'll understand when we get there."
242. >You lean back in your seat, staring at the ceiling of the "chopper" as you close your eyes to catch some rest.
243. >It was going to be a long flight.
245. Meanwhile, In Canterlot
247. >Applejack stood out in a grassy field as the tiny blip that was Anon's evac chariot disappeared into the distance.
248. >A light, Autumn breeze flowed over her, the flowers in the field swaying softly in the wind.
249. >West.
250. >They were going West.
251. >Applejack looks back to the castle of Canterlot as worry over what she was doing crept in.
252. >Would she?
253. >They needed her, after all.
254. >Looking at the torn photo in her hand, and feeling the chill of the silver chain around her neck, she made up her mind.
255. >Slinging her lasso over her torso, she began walking.
256. >"...Sis?"
257. >AJ stops in her tracks at the sound of the small voice behind her.
258. >Turning around, she's met by the amber eyes of her younger sister, Applebloom.
259. "..hey there sis."
260. >AJ's voice is soft, quiet.
261. >"You... yer leavin', aren't ya?"
262. >AJ nods, a small frown on her face.
263. >Applebloom lets out a small, soft sigh and nods.
264. >"Ya wanna follow 'im, don'tcha?"
265. >The pause between the two of them is quick, but feels like an eternity to Applejack.
266. "Yes... yes, Ah'm followin' him."
267. >Applebloom walks up to her big sister, and hugs her as tightly as she can.
268. >"Anon promised he'd be alright. He's never broken a promise..."
269. "Ah no, but-"
270. >"So if you go, y'all better promise too."
271. >Applebloom looks up at her sister, and Applejack's expressions soften as she realizes what Applebloom is saying.
272. "Ah promise."
273. >Applebloom nods, and lets AJ go from her hug.
274. "Take care of everyone fer me, alright Applebloom? Y'all are gonna be safe here in Canterlot."
275. >"...come back soon."
276. >AJ nods, then trots away into the forest, towards the distant desert.
277. >Another breeze sweeps the valley as the small yellow filly watches as her older sister goes after the man she loves.
278. >She hoped that she would find him.
279. >Because her sister loved the boy
280. >And she would be happy.
282. Airspace Above Las Pegasus
284. >SOAR: "Wake up, 'Robin Hood,' we're nearly there!"
285. >You're roused awake by Soarin' as he punches you lightly in the shoulder.
286. >Rubbing your eyes, you look out of the open door of the chariot down below.
287. >You were nearing a large, neon lit city, spotlights from various hotels and casinos flashing into the air.
288. >SOAR: "There it is, Las Pegasus. Sin City, damn ain't she pretty?"
289. >FIDO: "Is brighter than thought it would be... twinkles in night like gem."
290. >SOAR: "Hey man, big city, big lights, BIG night life."
291. "Hell, maybe this won't be so bad. We just go in, set up base, and wait it out, right?"
292. >CLOCK: "It better be."
293. >The recruit from earlier gets out of his seat and looks out the doorway, his eyes marveled.
294. >"Wow!... just, wow. Look at all of that! How many lights do you think are down there?"
295. >SOAR: "Enough for you to see that place from miles away, kid. Trust me, you're going to like it here."
296. >As Soarin' continues telling the recruit about the city, you take the small photo of Applejack out of your pocket, holding it tenderly in your hands.
297. >Fido peeks his eyes from under his helmet.
298. >FIDO: "What is that in hand?"
299. >You look to Fido, who looks genuinely curious about the photo.
300. "It's a picture."
301. >FIDO: "Picture of what?"
302. "Applejack. She's my... well, she's what I'm fighting for I suppose."
303. >You looks the photo of your special somep0ny, the green of her eyes standing out on among the colors of the paper.
304. >FIDO: "Can see this Applejack?"
305. >You look back to Fido who has his paw extended to you.
306. >You consider your options, and decide that it probably couldn't hurt.
307. "Here."
308. >You put the photo in his paw, and despite his size and demeanor, gingerly holds it up to his face.
309. >FIDO: "This pony, she is yours?"
310. "Yes."
311. >Fido lets out a low grunt and continues peering at the picture.
312. >FIDO: "Pony's eyes remind Fido of emeralds. You are luck to have orange pony."
313. "Thanks, Fido."
314. >You can see Clockwork glare at you from across your seat.
315. "What?"
316. >CLOCK: "She's yours. That's what you said, right?"
317. "Yeah. What of it?"
318. >CLOCK: "Nothing. Just surprised is all."
319. "What about?.."
320. >CLOCK: "No no, I don't want to say anything that could upset the happy groom. Please, pardon me."
321. "Okay, that's it. What's your problem?"
322. >CLOCK: "My problem is YOU. I don't like you, get it? I've never liked you."
323. "My god... are you STILL mad about that Hearts and Hooves all those years ago? Really?"
324. >CLOCK: "So what if I am?"
325. "For fuck's sake, Clockwork, you need to get over it. You were the one who blew it in the first place. If you should be mad at anyone, you should be mad at yourself."
326. >Clockwork grits his teeth at you.
327. >CLOCK: "Shut up! I don't need you telling me how I lost her, alright? Frigid bitch wasn't even a good lay if you ask me."
328. >...
329. "What did you say?"
330. >CLOCK: "She's an uptight, frigid bitch, that's what I said."
331. >SOAR: "Guys."
332. "You better start shutting the hell up right now, Clockwork, or I swear I'll-"
333. >SOAR: "Guys!"
334. >CLOCK: "Well then DO IT. Take your best shot, asshole!"
335. >SOAR: "GUYS, INCOMING."
336. >The chariot is rocked violently by a large green blast, knocking you out of your seat and onto the floor.
337. >Suddenly, the chariot is spinning wildly in the air, sending the recruit flying out the doorway.
338. >SOAR: "Shit! I'm going after him!"
339. >Soarin' dives out of the chariot after the recruit, as the rest of you spiral to the ground below.
340. >Shit.
341. >Closer.
342. >SHIT.
343. >The last thing you hear before you blackout is the crash.
344. >You wake up, smoke rising from where you lay as you regained consciousness.
345. >Your body is stiff from the crash landing, your vision blurry and your ears filled with a ringing noise.
346. >As you feel your way around the crash, you begin looking for your equipment.
347. >You try to stand up, but your legs are too shaky and you collapse once more.
348. >You spot your gear, scattered close by in the wreckage.
349. >Your bow is in pieces, your quiver crushed.
350. "Dammit..."
351. >You look around for your other weapons. Feeling your boot, you confirm that your knife is still with you.
352. >Finally finding your bag, you pull out what you've been looking for: a small shield, slightly larger than a buckler, and a tomahawk.
353. >At least you had these.
354. >You slip the shield onto your forearm and grasp the tomahawk, and begin looking for survivors of the crash, finally making it to your feet.
355. "Soarin'? Soarin'!"
356. >You call out, your voice hoarse from the smoke and your chest in pain.
357. >You see the hint of brown from underneath some wreckage and begin shoving it away.
358. >Underneath is the groaning figure of Clockwork.
359. "Are you alright?"
360. >CLOCK: "Ugh... what the hell happened?"
361. "We got hit. Must have had troops in the air waiting for us, I don't know for sure. Come on, we have to move."
362. >He wavers to his hooves, catching his bearings.
363. "See if you can find your gear, I'll try to find the others."
364. >He nods, and begins searching while you go off into more of the wreckage.
365. >A voice calls out to you. It's weak.
366. >"Please... please help..."
367. >You jog over and see the bloodied figure of a stallion crawling towards you.
368. >As you approach, the hairs on your neck begin to stand on edge.
369. >Something didn't feel right.
370. >You get closer, and the stallion grins, fangs showing in his smile.
371. >Before you realize it, it's on you in a flash, the stallion morphing into a changeling as it pounces on you.
372. >It tries to impale you with its horn, but you raise your shield and send him glancing off.
373. >Scrambling to your feet, you rush the changeling, bashing its snout in with the shield as you bring the tomahawk down on its skull.
374. >It writhes for a second, then goes limp, its glowing green blood seeping onto the dusty ground.
375. >You hear a screech from behind you as another changeling flies towards you.
376. >You quickly pull the tomahawk from the other's skull and fling it at the charging changeling, the blade slamming into its face as it crumples onto the ground.
377. >Before you can catch your breath, another tackles you from the side, and you slam your shield into it's face over and over.
378. >This one is bigger than the last two, and it fights on through your shield bashing.
379. >Suddenly a mace connects with the creature's head, a sickening crack ringing out as it's neck and skull shatter.
380. >Fido calmly pushes the body off of you and offers a paw.
381. >You take it and are helped to your feet.
382. >FIDO: "You are alright?"
383. "Yeah... yeah I think so. Thanks."
384. >You pat Fido on the shoulder and he grunts, smiling.
385. >FIDO: "Could not let die. Still had this to give you."
386. >You delicately pulls out the photo of Applejack from one of his pockets and hands it to you.
387. "I... thank you, Fido. Really."
388. >He nods and looks back over to where Clockwork is, the brown unicorn galloping up to you. He must have found his bow, because it's slung around his neck, along with his quiver.
389. >CLOCK: "What happened? What I miss?"
390. >You walk over to the last changeling you killed and pull the tomahawk from its corpse, flinging the blood off of it.
391. >FIDO: "Horny pony miss small fight. Is not problem."
392. >CLOCK: "Did you win?"
393. >You walk back to Fido and exchange a confused look between yourselves.
394. "We're still alive aren't we?"
395. >CLOCK: "Oh... right. Yeah."
396. >You look to the sky and see another evac chariot begin it's descent down to where you stand.
397. >Soarin' stands in the doorway, the recruit from earlier behind him.
398. >SOAR: "GodDAMN, you guys made it! Nice!"
399. >The three of you climb aboard the chariot as it takes off again.
400. >SOAR: "Did you see that? They just charged our ship out of nowhere."
401. "Yeah, it took us all by surprise. We were lucky to make it out alive."
402. >Soarin' pats you on the back and you let out a cough.
403. >SOAR: "Well we got word in from some forces already in the city. Seems like the changelings are in there deep, but we've managed to make a punch in the middle of the city. We're heading there to set up shop, and to not let anymore through."
404. >FIDO: "Sounds like plan."
405. >CLOCK: "Why'd the fucking dog have to survive."
406. >FIDO: "Diamond dog stronger than little brown horny pony. It is not surprise."
407. >Soarin' breaks out into a laugh at Fido's comment, while Clockwork simmers.
408. >The light from Las Pegasus grows brighter as you all enter the city, music from casinos heard faintly in the air.
409. >This was going to get interesting real fast.
411. ~End of Chapter 7~

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Autumn Leaves Chapter 7 "The falling leaves Drift by the window The autumn leaves All red and gold" >The bed you sat on was soft, luxurious. >Applejack sat next to you, and Applebloom sat on your shoulders as she buried her snout into your hair. >It had been only a day after Canterlot's invasion, but the minutes seemed to pass by like hours. Time was coming to a slow standstill as the reality of everything started to settle in. >You were dressed in Canterlot military garb, a mix of black and blue camouflage with Equestria's Emblem emblazoned on your shoulder. >Applejack's hooves were held in your hands as the two of you simply sat with each other in silence as you rested your head against hers. >When Celestia had told Applejack that you would be going to the brunt of the battle, she had immediately objected, stating that if you were going then so would she. >It hadn't gone over smoothly. One Day Earlier >AJ: "What do ya mean, 'the front lines'?" >TIA: "Anonymous will be sent into the heart of the battle, Applejack. He's shown that he is more than capable against Chrysalis' forces, so I'm confident that he will prove a valuable asset to our-" >AJ: "He's not an 'asset'! He's mine! You... you just can't send him off into th'thick of all the fightin' and not expect me t'be there for him!.. Ah'm goin' with him." >TIA: "Applejack, I realize this is hard for you but I must stress the importance of your staying in Canterlot. You are one of the holders of the Elements of Harmony. Without you here in Canterlot we could be-" >AJ: "To TARTARAUS with th'Elements! If Anon goes, then Ah go as well." >She's barring her teeth and her eyes are getting misty as she concentrates her anger on the princess. You leave Soarin' and go to her, taking a knee to get down to her level. >TIA: "Anonymous is not the only one I am conscripting into the armada. Every single able bodied stallion will be called for the war effort. This includes your older brother as well." >AJ: "So yer just sending half of mah family t'die?" >TIA: "Applejack, this is a war." >AJ: "There's a word that Anon would use to describe this, yer highness, and that's FUCKED. This is fucked, and you know it!" >You put a hand to Applejack's cheek and she breaks her stare from Celestia and looks to you, her expressions softer and sadder now. >AJ: "Anon... Anon this is wrong. You can't... you can stay with... please.." >She's breaking down in front of your eyes. It's the first time you've ever seen her on the verge of tears like this. "Applejack... AJ, listen. It's gonna be alright." >AJ: "You don't know that! You could get hurt, or maybe they'll capture ya, or... or..." >You rest your head against hers, bring your other hand to her face as well, holding her softly. "I know. It's not the best of situations, is it?" >AJ: "You don't have to do this. You can just NOT fight, y'all can just stay here in-" "No. I can't do that." >AJ: "But-" "I can't just sit idly by while this war goes on. If Mac has to fight, then I fight. If Soarin' fights, then I fight." >You look Applejack in her watery eyes. "This is my home. I'll help fight for it." >The two of you look into each others eyes as you try to calm her down. >AJ: "Ah could come with you. T'make sure yer safe. Please, Anon, don't do this." >Your soul strains as Applejack quietly pleads with you. Everyone's eyes are on you, even Soarin's, but right now you don't even know they're there. It's just you and Applejack at this point. "It's going to be alright." >AJ: "You don't know that!" "It's going to be alright." >AJ: "You don't... you don't know..." "It's going to be alright." >She clenches her teeth and the tears in her eyes finally roll down her face, as she just gives in to her emotions. You hold her close to you as she cries into your shoulder, her body shuddering. >AJ: "Ah just... Ah just don't want you to be out there without me. Ah SHOULD go with you, ya know that!" "They need you here, sweetheart. You need to stay." >AJ: "Ah don't care what they need... ah need YOU, Anon." "Applejack.." >AJ: "No! No Ah... Ah just..." >You take her chin into your hand, looking at her with a sad smile on your face. "I'm going to be alright." >AJ: "...promise me." "I promise." >AJ: "You've never broken a promise t'me, Anon. Never." "And I don't plan on breaking it anytime soon." >As she looks into your eyes, she finally breaks into a smile, albeit a half-hearted one. >AJ: "Alright... yeah, okay." >You stand up and Applejack turns to Celestia. >AJ: "Princess Ah... Ah'm sorry, about that. It's just-" >Celestia nods at her, smiling. >TIA: "It's alright, Applejack. I understand how you feel. To make things more stable for you, I'll withdraw my conscription of Big Macintosh. That is the best that I can do." >AJ: "That.. thank you, yer highness. It's more than Ah thought I'd get, at least." >TIA: "Anonymous?" >You turn to the royal alicorn and stand to attention, give or take. You just stand straighter than usual you suppose. "Yes ma'am?" >TIA: "Once we finish up the wedding, I'll escort you to our barracks. You'll need to get acquainted to our protocol after all." "Yes ma'am." >TIA: "But until then-" >She motions back to Applejack. >TIA: "Perhaps you should spend as much time as you can with those you care about." >You nod and leave with Applejack to your quarters, and to Applebloom as well. After all, you still had to get her out of the trunk in your room. Present Day >You hold Applejack close to you as you sat on your bed with both her and Applebloom. >AJ: "When... when do they send you out?" "Tomorrow." >BLOOM: "What's gonna happen, Anon? Yer gonna be okay, right?" >You smile up at the tiny filly and ruffle her mane. "You bet, squirt. I'll be just fine." >Applebloom gives a smile, but then frowns. >BLOOM: "Ah'm gonna miss ya, Anon." >You pick her up off your head and give her tight hug. "I'll be back before you know it, Applebloom." >The light from the setting sun cast through your window, sending warm rays of red and gold onto everything within. >Applebloom gives a yawn and looks to you and Applejack. >BLOOM: "Hey Anon?" "Yup?" >BLOOM: "Do you think you could tell me a story b'fore Ah go t'bed? Please?" >You walk Applebloom over and tuck her into your bed, sitting next to her. Applejack joins you at your side. "Alright, what do you want to hear?" >AJ: "How about the Little Seapony? Ya like that one, right?" >BLOOM: "Ah was hopin' that y'all might, well, tell me a story from when you were little, Anon. Maybe one yer pa told ya b'fore you came to live with us, Ah mean." >You look to Applejack and she shrugs, and you turn back to Applebloom. "Um, alright. Lemme think..." >It's been so long since you told Applebloom a bedtime story, let alone remember one from your own childhood. You strain your memories for a story to tell her. >And then, you have it. "..Once there was a tree, and she loved a little boy. And every day the boy would come, and he would gather her leaves and make them into crowns, and play 'King of the Forest.' He would climb up her trunk and swing from her branches, and eat apples." >Applebloom's eyes grow heavy and she lets out a yawn as you continue the story. "They would play hide-and-go-seek, and when he was tired, he would sleep in her shade." >You bring a hand over to Applejack's hoof, holding it tenderly. "And the boy loved the tree..." >You give Applejack a tender kiss on her forehead, and she blushes ever so slightly. "...very much. And the tree was happy." >Applebloom's breathing is steady and peaceful as she slips off into sleep, and Applejack whispers to you. >AJ: "That was nice. Is that the end of it?" "No... no there's more. It's kind of sad, though." >AJ: "Ah'd like to hear it, if'n ya don't mind." >You look to Applebloom who is softly snoring, a small smile on her face, and then nod back to Applejack. >You rise from the bed and lead her out to the balcony of the spire. >The sun casts the sky in an ocean of warm colors, reds and oranges tinting the clouds as Celestia finishes the day. "...but time went by... and the boy grew older. And the tree was often alone. Then one day the boy came to the tree and the tree said, 'Come, Boy, come and climb up my trunk and swing from my branches, and eat apples and play in the shade, and be happy.'" >The story goes on, and the stars are making their way into view when you near the end. >Applejack and you stare out at the distance as you finish the story, her head leaning up against your side. "...and after a long, long time, the boy came back again. 'I am sorry,' sighed the tree, 'I wish I could give you something, but I have nothing left to give. I am just an old stump. I am sorry...' and the boy, now an old man, says, 'I don't need very much now. Just a quiet place to sit and rest. I am very tired.' 'Well,' said the tree, 'an old stump is good for sitting... so come, Boy, sit down. Sit down and rest'..." >You sit down on the balcony and nuzzle Applejack's face tenderly, her expressions soft and caring. "And the boy did... and the tree was happy." >AJ: "...what's that story called?" "The Giving Tree. My dad would read me it sometimes before I went to bed... I'll be honest, I'm surprised I remembered it all." >AJ: "Why's that?" "Well it's just... AJ, it's been, what, near on ten years? I've been a part of your family and world for almost a decade now. I'm going to go fight to defend it soon... I just don't remember a lot of my old life anymore is all." >You stand up and lean against the balcony's railing, the stars shining brightly in the night sky. "You would think you would never forget someone's face, you know?" >AJ: "Anon?" >The moon was bright tonight. "Especially when that person was one of the most important... I just.. it gets harder to remember what he looks like." >Applejack stands by the rail with you, a hoof on your shoulder in comfort. "And I get it. I've been gone for a long time, it's normal... but I don't know how long I'm going to be out there. I don't know if we end this war tomorrow night or next year..." >AJ: "You're afraid you'll ferget what Ah look like?" >... >You nod slowly, still looking at the moon. >Applejack stares at you for a moment, then trots back into your room, rummaging in one of her bags. You hear a quick tear of paper, and she comes back to you. >In her mouth is a phote, torn in half, of you and she during the family reunion in Manehatten. "Why did you tear it?" >She takes the half that has her in the frame and hands it to you. >AJ: "Ah just figured that if ya had a picture of me t'remind you about me, that you'd have a pretty hard time fergettin' what Ah look like." >You look at the smiling face in the ripped photo. He was mid laugh, her eyes slightly closed as she swung an arm around you in a bar. "You'll keep the half with me in it?" >She nods, and you wrap her up into a hug. "That works." >AJ: "Ah thought it would, sugarcube." >The two of you leave the balcony behind, you slipping out of your new uniform and getting into bed with Applejack, Applebloom sleeping soundly between the two of you. >As you both simply looked into each others eyes through the night, you found it rather easy to drift off to sleep. >Applejack looks at the man she's grown to love with all her being, sleeping peacefully next to her little sister. >His breathing was steady and undisturbed. >As her mind raced while looking at him, she finally came to a conclusion. >AJ: "...Anon, Ah now ya can't hear me, but..." >She turns over to her other side, and whispers to herself. >AJ: "Ah'm not lettin' go of you that easily." The Next Day >This chariot was larger than you ever expected. >It was more of an evac chopper than a chariot, but you suppose that's the point. >You step onto the chariot and take a seat next to numerous recruits from within the guard, their spears resting up against their bodies. >They all wore some form of armor, and looked stoic as hell, their eyes facing forward. >You set your gear on the floor in between your legs as Soarin' takes the seat next to you. "Soarin'?" >SOAR: "Yeah man, just got word: I'm part of your squad." >You raise an eyebrow to the blue pegasus, no longer decked in his Wonderbolts uniform, but instead wears a suit of dark black and blue camouflage like you were wearing. "I figured you'd be going along with the rest of the pegasus units. You know, air forces and the like." >SOAR: "Same here, but I guess after I told Celestia about how we ended up falling into the chapel and all, she must have thought we'd work better as a team." "A human and a pegasus go to war. Sounds like the set up to a bad joke." >Soarin' laughs heartily and claps a hoof on your shoulder. Compared to the rest of the "chopper", you two are the liveliest things on board. >What boards the chariot next throws you off just a hair. >A large, grey diamond dog lumbers on board, his face partly covered in a helmet and shouldering a rather large mace. He sits down across from the two of you, taking up two seats. >Soarin' nudges you and whispers. >SOAR: "Yo, man, is that a diamond dog?" "I think so... check out the uniform." >The dog is wearing the same camouflage you and Soarin' wear, complete with the Canterlot crest emblazoned on his shoulder. >He tilts his helmet up over his eyes and looks to the two of you. His voice is deep and guttural. >DOG: "Fifth Squad?" >You nod to him. >SOAR: "That's us, dude." >The dog extends his large paw out to you. >You take it and shake it firmly. >DOG: "Fido." "Anonymous." >FIDO: "What name is flying pony?" >SOAR: "Name's Soarin', nice to meet ya. So how'd you end up here?" >Fido grunts and brings the helmet over his eyes again. >FIDO: "Got caught. Conscripted." "Caught?" >FIDO: "Caught." >SOAR: "Mind elaboratin' just a bit, man?" >FIDO: "Not your business. Fido caught, Fido fight. That all is needed." >You look to Soarin' and shrug with him. "Well in any case, welcome to Fifth Squad." >Fido grunts again, not looking at either of you. >Soarin' laughs. >SOAR: "You were saying this sounded like the set up to a bad joke?" >A human, pegasus, and diamond dog go to war. >If it wasn't the start of a joke then you had no clue what it was. >The chariot takes off from the ground and in an instant you're flying away from Canterlot, the castle and city fading in the distance as you, along with numerous other chariots exit Shining Armor's force field. >One of the recruits across from you pipes up. >"Hey. Do you know where we're headed?" >FIDO: "Princess did not tell you where we go?" >"Uh... no.. I mean, I know we're headed out West, that's for sure. I just don't know where we're being sent to is all." >A soldier beside him speaks up. He's dressed in your uniform as well. >???: "We're being sent to Las Pegasus." >The unicorn meets your eyes and he glares, his black mane ruffled at your sight. >Clockwork. "Fifth Squad?" >CLOCK: "Unfortunately." "Anymore surprise squad-mates I should know about, or are you the last one?" >CLOCK: "Trust me, I could do without being on your team, Anonymous. It's not like I chose to be part of this team, Celestia just assigned me to it." >Soarin' looks for the positive of the situation. >SOAR: "Look on the bright side, at least we have some magic in our squad now." >Fido leans on his knees and looks over to Clockwork, his helmet still covering his eyes. >FIDO: "Horny pony good at fighting?" >CLOCK: "A dog? We have a dog in our squad? That's just perfect." >Fido squints his yellow eyes at clockwork. >FIDO: "Problem with diamond dog?" >CLOCK: "As long as you don't stab me in the back, then no, I don't have a problem with you. You just can't be trusted." >Fido snorts at Clockwork and sits back into his seat. >SOAR: "Well aren't you just a ball of sunshine." >CLOCK: "I don't need a damn attitude from you, okay? So why don't you just shut up?" "Clockwork." >CLOCK: "What?" >His voiced is laced with latent anger. "If we're going to be in the same squad then we have to put our petty shit aside. We're a team now." >CLOCK: "You're trying to talk me down? You? Yeah, you can go blow it out your flank." >SOAR: "Oh I can already tell we're all going to get along just fine." >A silence makes its way into the chariot, no one making anymore conversation. >The recruit speaks up again. >"So... why Las Pegasus?" "The Queen and the majority of her army was sent in that direction; towards the badlands. We're to make base in Las Pegasus and maintain the perimeter there. No one gets past us." >"What if they go around it? I mean, they could just ignore the city all together and get past us somewhere else.." >Soarin' gives a smug smile and leans in towards the recruit across the deck. >SOAR: "You've never been to Las Pegasus, have you kid?" >"Uh... no, sir." >SOAR: "Well Changelings, see, like to feed on love. And Las Pegasus... well, let's just say there's a lot of love going on in that city." >Fido lets out a grunt of a laugh, and you chuckle as the recruit looks at all of you confusedly. >"What does that mean?" >SOAR: "Trust me, kid, you'll understand when we get there." >You lean back in your seat, staring at the ceiling of the "chopper" as you close your eyes to catch some rest. >It was going to be a long flight. Meanwhile, In Canterlot >Applejack stood out in a grassy field as the tiny blip that was Anon's evac chariot disappeared into the distance. >A light, Autumn breeze flowed over her, the flowers in the field swaying softly in the wind. >West. >They were going West. >Applejack looks back to the castle of Canterlot as worry over what she was doing crept in. >Would she? >They needed her, after all. >Looking at the torn photo in her hand, and feeling the chill of the silver chain around her neck, she made up her mind. >Slinging her lasso over her torso, she began walking. >"...Sis?" >AJ stops in her tracks at the sound of the small voice behind her. >Turning around, she's met by the amber eyes of her younger sister, Applebloom. "..hey there sis." >AJ's voice is soft, quiet. >"You... yer leavin', aren't ya?" >AJ nods, a small frown on her face. >Applebloom lets out a small, soft sigh and nods. >"Ya wanna follow 'im, don'tcha?" >The pause between the two of them is quick, but feels like an eternity to Applejack. "Yes... yes, Ah'm followin' him." >Applebloom walks up to her big sister, and hugs her as tightly as she can. >"Anon promised he'd be alright. He's never broken a promise..." "Ah no, but-" >"So if you go, y'all better promise too." >Applebloom looks up at her sister, and Applejack's expressions soften as she realizes what Applebloom is saying. "Ah promise." >Applebloom nods, and lets AJ go from her hug. "Take care of everyone fer me, alright Applebloom? Y'all are gonna be safe here in Canterlot." >"...come back soon." >AJ nods, then trots away into the forest, towards the distant desert. >Another breeze sweeps the valley as the small yellow filly watches as her older sister goes after the man she loves. >She hoped that she would find him. >Because her sister loved the boy >And she would be happy. Airspace Above Las Pegasus >SOAR: "Wake up, 'Robin Hood,' we're nearly there!" >You're roused awake by Soarin' as he punches you lightly in the shoulder. >Rubbing your eyes, you look out of the open door of the chariot down below. >You were nearing a large, neon lit city, spotlights from various hotels and casinos flashing into the air. >SOAR: "There it is, Las Pegasus. Sin City, damn ain't she pretty?" >FIDO: "Is brighter than thought it would be... twinkles in night like gem." >SOAR: "Hey man, big city, big lights, BIG night life." "Hell, maybe this won't be so bad. We just go in, set up base, and wait it out, right?" >CLOCK: "It better be." >The recruit from earlier gets out of his seat and looks out the doorway, his eyes marveled. >"Wow!... just, wow. Look at all of that! How many lights do you think are down there?" >SOAR: "Enough for you to see that place from miles away, kid. Trust me, you're going to like it here." >As Soarin' continues telling the recruit about the city, you take the small photo of Applejack out of your pocket, holding it tenderly in your hands. >Fido peeks his eyes from under his helmet. >FIDO: "What is that in hand?" >You look to Fido, who looks genuinely curious about the photo. "It's a picture." >FIDO: "Picture of what?" "Applejack. She's my... well, she's what I'm fighting for I suppose." >You looks the photo of your special somep0ny, the green of her eyes standing out on among the colors of the paper. >FIDO: "Can see this Applejack?" >You look back to Fido who has his paw extended to you. >You consider your options, and decide that it probably couldn't hurt. "Here." >You put the photo in his paw, and despite his size and demeanor, gingerly holds it up to his face. >FIDO: "This pony, she is yours?" "Yes." >Fido lets out a low grunt and continues peering at the picture. >FIDO: "Pony's eyes remind Fido of emeralds. You are luck to have orange pony." "Thanks, Fido." >You can see Clockwork glare at you from across your seat. "What?" >CLOCK: "She's yours. That's what you said, right?" "Yeah. What of it?" >CLOCK: "Nothing. Just surprised is all." "What about?.." >CLOCK: "No no, I don't want to say anything that could upset the happy groom. Please, pardon me." "Okay, that's it. What's your problem?" >CLOCK: "My problem is YOU. I don't like you, get it? I've never liked you." "My god... are you STILL mad about that Hearts and Hooves all those years ago? Really?" >CLOCK: "So what if I am?" "For fuck's sake, Clockwork, you need to get over it. You were the one who blew it in the first place. If you should be mad at anyone, you should be mad at yourself." >Clockwork grits his teeth at you. >CLOCK: "Shut up! I don't need you telling me how I lost her, alright? Frigid bitch wasn't even a good lay if you ask me." >... "What did you say?" >CLOCK: "She's an uptight, frigid bitch, that's what I said." >SOAR: "Guys." "You better start shutting the hell up right now, Clockwork, or I swear I'll-" >SOAR: "Guys!" >CLOCK: "Well then DO IT. Take your best shot, asshole!" >SOAR: "GUYS, INCOMING." >The chariot is rocked violently by a large green blast, knocking you out of your seat and onto the floor. >Suddenly, the chariot is spinning wildly in the air, sending the recruit flying out the doorway. >SOAR: "Shit! I'm going after him!" >Soarin' dives out of the chariot after the recruit, as the rest of you spiral to the ground below. >Shit. >Closer. >SHIT. >The last thing you hear before you blackout is the crash. >You wake up, smoke rising from where you lay as you regained consciousness. >Your body is stiff from the crash landing, your vision blurry and your ears filled with a ringing noise. >As you feel your way around the crash, you begin looking for your equipment. >You try to stand up, but your legs are too shaky and you collapse once more. >You spot your gear, scattered close by in the wreckage. >Your bow is in pieces, your quiver crushed. "Dammit..." >You look around for your other weapons. Feeling your boot, you confirm that your knife is still with you. >Finally finding your bag, you pull out what you've been looking for: a small shield, slightly larger than a buckler, and a tomahawk. >At least you had these. >You slip the shield onto your forearm and grasp the tomahawk, and begin looking for survivors of the crash, finally making it to your feet. "Soarin'? Soarin'!" >You call out, your voice hoarse from the smoke and your chest in pain. >You see the hint of brown from underneath some wreckage and begin shoving it away. >Underneath is the groaning figure of Clockwork. "Are you alright?" >CLOCK: "Ugh... what the hell happened?" "We got hit. Must have had troops in the air waiting for us, I don't know for sure. Come on, we have to move." >He wavers to his hooves, catching his bearings. "See if you can find your gear, I'll try to find the others." >He nods, and begins searching while you go off into more of the wreckage. >A voice calls out to you. It's weak. >"Please... please help..." >You jog over and see the bloodied figure of a stallion crawling towards you. >As you approach, the hairs on your neck begin to stand on edge. >Something didn't feel right. >You get closer, and the stallion grins, fangs showing in his smile. >Before you realize it, it's on you in a flash, the stallion morphing into a changeling as it pounces on you. >It tries to impale you with its horn, but you raise your shield and send him glancing off. >Scrambling to your feet, you rush the changeling, bashing its snout in with the shield as you bring the tomahawk down on its skull. >It writhes for a second, then goes limp, its glowing green blood seeping onto the dusty ground. >You hear a screech from behind you as another changeling flies towards you. >You quickly pull the tomahawk from the other's skull and fling it at the charging changeling, the blade slamming into its face as it crumples onto the ground. >Before you can catch your breath, another tackles you from the side, and you slam your shield into it's face over and over. >This one is bigger than the last two, and it fights on through your shield bashing. >Suddenly a mace connects with the creature's head, a sickening crack ringing out as it's neck and skull shatter. >Fido calmly pushes the body off of you and offers a paw. >You take it and are helped to your feet. >FIDO: "You are alright?" "Yeah... yeah I think so. Thanks." >You pat Fido on the shoulder and he grunts, smiling. >FIDO: "Could not let die. Still had this to give you." >You delicately pulls out the photo of Applejack from one of his pockets and hands it to you. "I... thank you, Fido. Really." >He nods and looks back over to where Clockwork is, the brown unicorn galloping up to you. He must have found his bow, because it's slung around his neck, along with his quiver. >CLOCK: "What happened? What I miss?" >You walk over to the last changeling you killed and pull the tomahawk from its corpse, flinging the blood off of it. >FIDO: "Horny pony miss small fight. Is not problem." >CLOCK: "Did you win?" >You walk back to Fido and exchange a confused look between yourselves. "We're still alive aren't we?" >CLOCK: "Oh... right. Yeah." >You look to the sky and see another evac chariot begin it's descent down to where you stand. >Soarin' stands in the doorway, the recruit from earlier behind him. >SOAR: "GodDAMN, you guys made it! Nice!" >The three of you climb aboard the chariot as it takes off again. >SOAR: "Did you see that? They just charged our ship out of nowhere." "Yeah, it took us all by surprise. We were lucky to make it out alive." >Soarin' pats you on the back and you let out a cough. >SOAR: "Well we got word in from some forces already in the city. Seems like the changelings are in there deep, but we've managed to make a punch in the middle of the city. We're heading there to set up shop, and to not let anymore through." >FIDO: "Sounds like plan." >CLOCK: "Why'd the fucking dog have to survive." >FIDO: "Diamond dog stronger than little brown horny pony. It is not surprise." >Soarin' breaks out into a laugh at Fido's comment, while Clockwork simmers. >The light from Las Pegasus grows brighter as you all enter the city, music from casinos heard faintly in the air. >This was going to get interesting real fast. ~End of Chapter 7~