Rebels in Equestria 7 - REDUX

> The sunlight doesn't shine in the southernmost wing of the Canterlot Castle.
> It's corridors have no windows.
> Dank and depressing stretches of corridors, only scarcely illuminated by torches, give off an almost dungeon like appeal to it.
> Not surprisingly, it proves to be a barren and empty wing of the castle.
> Save for the Royal Sisters, the hall is traversed by only a handful of castle guards.

> With only the sounds of their steccato breaths, a cold shiver runs down the spines of those who find their way here.

> A lone guard stands watch by one of the doorways at the end of the hall.
> His armor and sword lie scattered across his feet.
> Slouched against the wall, he drifts in and out of sleep.
> He stands ‘vigilant’ over the cob-webbed door.
> A door that seems like it may fall off it’s very hinges from the years of neglect and misuse
> Curiosity all who were stationed at the southernmost wings of the Canterlot Castle.
> Dozens of doors and passageways strew about the corridors. Many of which remain a mystery to even the most seasoned guards.

> It was a dull night
> And just like any other guard, the initial sense of curiosity has long sinced passed.
> He couldn't care less over this god-forsaken post.
> Lulling in and out of sleep, he does his best to pass the time.
> He stares blankly and the empty hallway.
> His mind wandering somewhere else.
> Anywhere but here.
> His face flusters as he imagines the young mare he’d met at a ceremony not too long ago.
> Such a beautiful mare.
> What was her name again?
> He shifts his weight around his hooves as he rattles the thought in his mind.
> She had an odd name.
> But one that oddly became the center of his mind.
> Dusk?
> Dawn?
> Or maybe.
> [spoiler]Twilight?[/spoiler]

> However, he quickly snaps to attention as his ears perk up.
> He hears something.

> Footsteps.
> And they're getting closer.

> Quickly, the young stallion dons his armor and sword.
> An act he’s come to master over the countless hours.
> He strikes a tall pose and stands in formation.

> As always, Celestia travels down the hallways with grace and refinement.
> Her very presence bringing a bright aura to the dank and seemingly empty halls.
> One that brings a smile to the young guard's face.

> “Good morning, your highness.” he chirps. Offering a slight bow.
“Good morning.” she smiles.
> A small moment of silence passes between the two.
> Celestia’s mind seems to be elsewhere.
> Our guard is the first to break the silence.

> “This post is somewhat of a lonely one, your highness. I don't see many ponies come down here during my shift. So I didn't expect to see anypony today.” Flash chuckles, “Much less someone such as yourself. If I had known, I would have at least polished my armor this morning!”
> Flash offers somewhat of an awkward smile.

> Celestia offers but a slight smile, as she gives a slight cringe as the boy's words pierces daggers into her heart.
> She envies the lad.
> She envies his youth and his happy-go-lucky nature.
> Flash opens the door and bows as Celestia wanders inside.

> “Princess!?” the guard blurts out.
> Celestia stops in her tracks, only to glance back at the young guard.
> He twiddles with his hooves against the floor.
“Yes?”

> “Ah. It's just...” the guard nervously pecks at the floor.
> Hesitantly, he pauses for a moment before continuing.
> “I've been stationed at this post longer than I can remember.”
“And?” Celestia curiously asks.
> “.. It's just, no-one's ever told me what I'm guarding, or why I'm guarding it.”
> Celestia cracks off a warm smile and glances back at the young guard.
> He shuffles stances, regretful of even asking in the first place..
“You're guarding what little remains of the unsung war.”
> The young guard gives off a confused look.
> And before he has a chance to say much else, Celestia struts inside and shuts the door behind her.

> Celestia's horn glows with a soft aura as she casts a spell.
> Instantly, the pitch black room is lit by various candles and torches.
> She glances around for a bit, and steps inside.

> Much like the rest of the castle, this room is adorned with various pieces and artifacts from times long long ago.
> Dozens of sets of armor are set on display throughout the room, giving an almost museum-like aura in the room.
> However, unlike a museum, these pieces have been neglected, dented and scuffed.
> Upon closer inspection, one would find that these pieces of armor are primitive, and nothing like the pristine golden clad armor of today's guards.

> These are simple outfits.
> A few pieces of hammer shaped copper sheets are bound together by thin pieces worn leather.
> They offered the wearer little protection, if any at all.

> Yet, one can't help but feel a distinct aura of age coming from these suits.
> Armor so ridiculously old, it's a miracle it's still in standing.
> Celestia grimaces as she passes them by, careful as not to disturb them.

> But as she passes along the room, she pauses.
> Her eyes set on a single set of armor.
> Celestia runs her hoof along one of the green copper.
> A thick coat of dust has begun to accumulate along with other imperfections.
> “Has is really been that long?” Celestia whispers almost inaudibly.
> It then begins to dawn on her the sheer length of time that has passed since she’s payed tribute to this makeshift museum.
> Suddenly she feels an absolute horrid sense of shame well up in her gut.
> A deep shame that can only be brought forth with carelessness of centuries of neglect.

> She looks around again.
> Scattered swords and spears are set behind dusty glass tables.
> Each one of them rusted and broken in some sort of way.
> As Celestia passes each one of them by, she takes a moment to pause and recollect on her thoughts.

> Her expression is one of disturbance.
> Her gaze goes beyond the armor suits.
> Beyond this room.
> She recognizes these suits.
> Tears well up as she digs deep in her mind for distant memories.
> Ones that had been all but locked away.
> She knew the people who donned these suits.
> She knew them all too well.

> She remembers each one of their young, shining faces as they trained through the academy.
> She remembers their sense of eagerness as they graduated into full fledged royal guards.
> The bright smile on each of their faces as she appointed them as her personal guards.
> She remembers their personalities.
> Their names.
> Their faces.
> Their voices, still all clear as day.

> She remembers it all.
> Celestia rubs a temple as a flood of memories are rushed back towards her.
> She remembers the dark magic that corrupted the once sweet and verdant Luna into a monster.
> Night Mare Moon.

> Celestia winces as she searches her memories for those unfortunate days.
> She remembers pleading her sister for understanding.
> Pleading for forgiveness.
> Pleading for a second chance.
> But Nightmare would have none of it.

> At the time, she was young.
> In-experienced.
> And above all...
> Soft.
> Cursed with a gentle soul she couldn't dare harm a fly.
> Ultimately, she was unable bring herself to wield a sword against her own blood.
> A decision that would soon prove to be costly.

> As the days raged on, hope drew thin.
> Times were desperate.
> And she ultimately feared for the worst.
> She had tried reasoning with Nightmare.
> She pressed for any kind of diplomatic solution.
> But was hard pressed to find any.

> Celestia wanders over to a set of doors at the far end of the room.
> She presses her horn against the door's lock and casts a spell.
> The door's tumblers rattle and creak.
> A thick coating of dust shake off the door.
> And the hinges give off an uncomfortable creak as it's opened for the first time in centuries.

> Celestia scurries down the corridor and into another chamber of the room.

> There, she finds herself face to face with more rows of armor suits.

> But not just any armor.
> These are entirely different.

> The aura in this room is one of pride.
> One of honor.
> And courage.
> As Celestia walks up to one of the suits, she can't help but feel all that and more radiate from the armor.

> These suits of armor stand taller, and prouder than the rest.
> For it was not an Equestrian made piece.
> It was not fitted for a stallion.

> It was human armor.
> Crafted by a man.
> And made for a man.

> It was armor far more advance than any found in the other room.
> Where Stallion armor was but of simple copper plates, these pieces were hand craft by only the most talanted human hands. Each one composed of dozens of intricate pieces. All forged from milled steel.

> Mankind.
> They were but a small faction settled off on the outskirts of Equestria.
> They were amongst the smallest, and weakest species to roam the earth.
> But collectively they were a tremendous force to be reckoned with.
> Whilst the rest of the world relied on brute strength and magic for survival, mankind had to rely solely on it's wits.
> Unlike the rest of the world's species, mankind had no outstanding physical traits of their own.
> They could not fly.
> They could not run very far.
> They were not very strong.
> And they were not able to cast magic.

> But yet, one could argue they were the most gifted.
> And that they were the best off.
> Armed with an unsurpassed intelligence, they quickly became master of their surroundings.
> They showed an incredible mastery of all trades, one that surpassed all other races.
> And above all, they always displayed an impeccable sense of pride in their work.

> Lest one wanted their lands in ruin, one did not wage war against the small faction.
> The comfortably positioned themselves at the top of the region's hierarchy.
> Envy and jealousy ran rampant throughout the rest of the world.
> They were respected out of fear.
> They were hated by many.
> And were labeled outcasts by nearly all.
> They were a solitary species.
> Relying on no-one but themselves to solve their own problems and mostly sticking to themselves.

> But somehow, they remained a docile bunch.
> One way or another, they had become allies with Equestria.
> The two traded goods and welcomed each other with open arms.
> For as long as Celestia could remember the humans had remained one of Equestria's few allies.
> Trade between the two flourished.
> Lasting friendships were forged.
> And an everlasting trust was formed between the two.
> With open arms, they shared with each other a new world of commerce and culture.

> But it all proved to be short lived.
> For quickly after Nightmare Moon took power, this was all shattered.
> Ponyfolk scattered like cornered rats.
> Confusion and fear spread like the plague.
> She was left with no means of a solution.
> And she was hopeless.

> But during what was Celestia's darkest hour, the small faction of mankind crested upon the horizon.
> Bearing arms in the name of their ally.

> When all else seemed lost.
> They guided the way.

> When everyone else cowered.
> They stood firm.

> Emotionally unable to wield the Elements of Harmony herself, Celestia sent her royal guard into battle.
> She remembers the look of strength and determination as they marched into battle.
> Marching against a seemingly unstoppable foe.
> Fighting a way against an unstoppable enemy, all in the name of their home.
> She remembers their final parade, knowing very well that they marched towards certain death.
> But her guard was not alone.
> They were backed by the strength and power of mankind.

> She remembers seeing her stout stallions march side by side with the towering humans.
> She remembers their faces of pride as they marched out of Canterlot, towards the field of battle.
> But above all, she distinctly remembers seeing her little ponies stride a little bit taller that day.

---

> Celestia pulls herself away to the armor.
> She clenches her eyes shut.
> But even in the darkness, she can still see the human's faces.
> She can still hear their voices.
> She can still hear their cries.

> They were no match for Nightmare Moon.
> No one was.
> And just like that, they were slaughtered.
> In an instant Nightmare had reduced the world's mightiest warriors to dust.
> For the next morning, the bloodied armor suits of her brave warriors was sent back to the Celestia's doorstep.
> Almost as a taunt of sorts.

> But it didn't end there.
> Nightmare Moon was no fool.
> She knew Celestia had conscripted the aid of an ally.
> For didn't take kindly to having been attacked a neighboring faction.
> She quickly swept in for a counter attack.

> Nightmare's only goal in all this was for a personal vendetta against Celestia.
> And she knew the best way to break Celestia.
> Nightmare's counter attack was well coordinated and swift.
> For it was not aimed at Canterlot.
> Not at Celestia.
> Not even at Ponyville.
> No.
> Instead, she took aim at the outskirts of Equestria.
> To the small human settlements scattered about just outside the borders.

> Nightmare's attack was merciless.
> Engulfing each settlement in an aura of impenetrable dark magic, she extinguished the lives of thousands in an instant.
> Sparing none in her ruthless genocide, she quickly wiped mankind off the face of the earth.
> She lauded them as fools for having taken a stand against her.
> And she treated them as if they were as common insects, lining up for extermination.

> It was a crippling blow for Celestia.
> One that finally brought her on edge.
> After witnessing a sacrifice so great, she gathered what little courage she had to face her sister.

> A soft weep fills the room.
> Celestia's tears drop effortlessly onto the stone floor below.
> She falls to her knees.
> Weeping at the foot of a suit of armor, she breaks into hysterics.

> She looks up to the suit of armor.
> Still standing proudly to this day, it's a constant reminder to her careless mistake.
> One that caused an entire race to vanish.

> She paces the floor.
> Her mind racing with a topic that's been weighing on her mind for a thousand years.
> It's her fault.
> Had she only used the Elements of Harmony earlier.
> Had she only drawn a bit of courage the humans had shown.

> Perhaps.
> Perhaps they'd still be around today.
> ….
> She shuts her eyes.
> But it's no use.
> She can still see their faces.
> She covers her ears.
> But it's no use.
> She can still hear their voices.
> Dozens of them.

> And among them all, one in particular stands out.
> His voice.
> Anonymous'.

> Her mind races at the thought of the sole human.
> She can only imagine the confusion within him.
> The lost soul.
> Damned to live the rest of his second life in shame.
> With the misery of his past trials trailing behind him.
> How can he still stand?
> How can he still smile?

> Her mind races back to the throne room.
> To those few moments where they became one.
> Disgust seeps through her very soul.
> She clenches her heart in agony. For she was stricken by a deep pain.
> An emotional pain that pierces the very essence of her soul.

> The sheer reminder of what that man endured was enough to bring her to her knees.
> A pit of nausea seeps in her stomach as she recalls the experience.
> Violence, and gore ran rampant during those city streets.
> Cities burned down by the fires of hatred and liberation.
> Truly, she’s witnessed the worst of humanity.

> But...
> In that very instance, she also became familiar with the very best.
> For Anonymous had not acted alone. Countless others who took up arms with him still echo in her mind.
> She can only imagine the courage it must take to risk everything to join the resistance movement. And she only wishes she could have summoned a fraction of that courage
> Driven by Anonymous’ actions, a deep sense of admiration wells up inside Celestia.

> Armed with little more than sticks and stones, he faced a Goliath.
> With the entire world watching, he marched onwards, towards his death.
> Just like those who faced Nightmare Moon.
> Celestia ponders it for a moment.
> It seems humans across all walks share the same sense of courage.

> Celestia looks up at the armor suit one last time.
> She glances up to the opened helmet.
> Only to have Anonymous' face staring back down at her.
> She can still see remember his warm smile on that fateful day.

“P-Please.” she whimpers. “P-Please. I-I'm begging you.”
> She slams her hoof against the floor.
> The empty suits of armor rattle against themselves.
“Accept my apology! P-Please!” she cries out. “F-Forgive me!”
> She fals to the floor, her knees scraping the crickety wood floor.
> Celestia holds a hoof to her temples.
> Her ears start to ring as indistinguishable voices begin to flood the room.
> Their faces start to appear one by one.

> Celestia shuts her eyes tight, desperately trying to escape their gaze.
> But it’s no use.
> Even in the private confines of her eye lids, she finds herself face to face with her fallen comrades.

> And it’s not before long that those voices start to clear out.
> The blabber and gibberish transforms into sentences and phrases.
> Much to her dismay, she focuses her hearing. Picking out their voices one by one.

> “How you doing, Celestia?”
> “Ah, Celestia! It’s been a while!”
> “My princess! My dear princess! How I missed you so!”
> “Your majesty! It’s been far too long!”

> And before she knows it, Celestia is struggling on the floor. Desperately trying to grasp at any fathom of reality before.
> The heart in her chest pounds at an alarming rate.
> She whimpers to the men before her.
> She crawls to the feet of armor, gazing up to the toothy grin of Anonymous once more.
“I only brought you here so you can say it....” Celestia starts. Her voice broken by whimpers and sobs.
“Please! I-I just need you to say it once!” Celestia cries out “P-Please! J-Just once! P-Please!”

> She smashes the suit of armor with her hoof.
> It collapses to the floor and dissaembles itself.
> And with the illusion of Anonymous gone, she whimpers to the floor.
“Please...” she whispers. “Just once...”

> Unable to drown the voices of her fallen allies, she breaks into hysterics.

---

> You sun is holding high above the city streets.
> It's light brings a warm glow to your skin.
> People scurry about the city streets, many going out and about trying to go about their lives as “normally” as possible.

> You lean idly against the car door. Slightly adjusting the driver's seat to your liking, and only sulking even deeper into the seat.
> The soft aroma of coffee wafts into your nose as you sip from your styrofoam cup.
> The soft taste of fresh coffee flows into your mouth.
> You pause for a moment, recognizing the taste of a foreign brew.
> It's nothing like the local stuff you've come accustomed to your whole life.
> It’s almost enough to make you gag.

> You sit parked in front of an old bakery as you have for hours.
>A gentle breeze carries the rich scent of fresh baked good into the car.
> It's enough to bring your mouth to a water.

> You've been sitting for hours.
> Watching.
> Waiting.

> A loud horn rips through the street.
> Glancing down the rear view mirror, you can make out the silhouette of a half-track caravan.
> The low rumble of military vehicles are still ever present.
> As you idly sit by, various Estovakian trucks pass the street in front of you.
> The officers riding on the trucks seem to be having a good time with each other.
> Cracking jokes and smoking cigarettes, they take the moment for what it is.
> One of them makes eye contact with you.
> He looks young.
> Almost too young.
> It makes you wonder at what age the Estovakian’s begin drafting.

> You ponder the subject for a moment, and decide it a best topic for another time.
> None the less, you maintain an ever vigilant watch over the street.

> You sit inside a bright yellow taxi cab, it's windows tinted a deep limo black. Dressed in an outfit typical of modern day cabbies.
> Baggy jeans, ruffled shirts and jackets, and a small burgundy cap.
> A crude fake cabbie's I.D sits pinned across your chest, along with the fake name: Christopher Bagston
> It’s a deep red color, with the Estovakian Flag visible in the background.
> You can’t but help feel a distinct sense of disgust while wearing the badge.
> Donning the colors of the enemy?
> Unthinkable.

> Yet.
> As you glance around, you see dozens of others wearing the same badges as you.
> The militarized zone is a busy place.
> It's occupants hustled about the city streets in a hurry, scurrying from one building to the next.
> Life continued as normal inside the walls of the zone.
> This place was an oasis amongst the desert.
> In here, you were relatively safe.
> There were no raids.
> No bombing runs.
> No shootouts.
> Nothing.
> Armed soldiers march down the same sidewalks with the former Emmerian civilians.
> Such citizens donned a small red I.D across the chests, just like yours.
> I.D's that were only given out to citizens who pledged allegiance to the newly raised Estovakian flag.

> People who live in this zone chose to live in a lap of 'luxury'. Living in what simply was a facade created to whisper sweet nothings into the ears of the people.

> They happily accept the scraps from the Stovie war machine.
> Gnawing on the excrements of their former lives, these 'citizens' live happily nestled in their new homes, away from the fighting and gun fights.
> Away from the war.
> Away from their countrymen.
> ...
> Fools.

> People here signed away their freedom for an illusion of safety.
> Defectors.
> Traitors.
> Rats.
> The sheer thought of this place gives you nausea.

> You check your watch.
> High noon.

> The shouts of a young boy selling newspapers ring throughout the streets.
> You flag the boy down, paying him with the loose change left over from your coffee.
> You glance over the paper.
> It's blatant propaganda.
> But it still doesn't cease to amuse you.

> You flip through the paper some more.
> It's headlines boast over the glory of the Estovakian armed forces.
> They flaunt the glamor of the Estovakian lifestyle.
> And they belittle the once proud Emmerian people.
> And all in all, it warrants little more than a sensible chuckle from you.

> Your eyes shift from the paper to across the busy street.
> A small restaurant is nestled between a post office and a small convenience store.
> It's red brick store front has seen better days, and little more than a humble sign above the doorway states it's presence.

> It's there a certain person catches your attention.
> A young man, seated by the window of the restaurant.
> He idly munches on a slice of pepperoni while flicking at his smart phone.

> He's a stoic man.
> Handsome.
> Tall.
> Brown hair, brown eyes.
> Strong jaw line, and soft skin.
> Features you've long since committed to memory.

> His name is Vladmir Andreavich
> Your target.

> Closing your eyes, you start to clear your mind.
> Focusing entirely on the mission on hand.
> It's a simple mission.
> One that should go on without a hitch.
> You play back the events in your mind like a play.
> Focusing on key moments, over and over again.
> The execution must be perfect as to not arouse suspicion.

> You give a soft sigh to yourself.
> You of all people should know that there isn't a single plan in the world that doesn't meet some form of resistance.
> The eye of your mind wanders to bag of automatic rifles stashed underneath the passenger seat.
> And you shuffle around the seat, feeling the weight of the Kevlar armor vest on your shoulders.

> Should things turn ugly, there's Plan B.
> There’s always a Plan B.

> The cellphone set besides your coffee starts to ring.
> You quickly pick up the phone and reply with a quick “Hello?”
> A stark and powerful voice replies through the phone.
> Mac's voice.
> “Anonymous?”
“Oi.”
> “It's time. I've already told the others.”

> The others.
> You think back to the mission briefing.
> Back to the half dozen or so people who were there with you.
> All of whom were probably scattered about the street right now.
> Ready to act on a moment's notice.

> Piercing open your eyes, you search for him.
> “Are you ready?” Mac asks over the phone, the sounds of the city streets echoing through your earpiece.

> You continue searching for Mac until you spot him outside the pizza parlor, just a few dozen feet from Vladmir.
> His tall and gruff build is easy to spot amongst the spineless citizens of the zone.
“Ready as I'll ever be.” you reply.
> “Good.” he remarks, his voice full of confidence.

> You check your watch.
> Quarter past noon.
> You find the keys to the car and start her up, filling the cabin with the rhythmic chugging of the old engine.
> A sound that has always brought a sense of peace to you.

> You focus your mind, and put yourself into action.
> Doing your best to emulate the plan you had set forth in your mind.
> Pulling out of your spot, you take the cab into traffic.
> You flick a small red switch on the dash, turning on the “ON DUTY” sign atop your cab.

> You glance at your watch.
> Twenty past.

> You pull the car back to the street you were on.
> This time, parking directly in front of the parlor.
> You wait a few moments before glancing out towards the pizza parlor.

> Your palms start to sweat.
> Vladmir exits the parlor, a slice of pepperoni in one hand, and a briefcase in another.
> Glancing at the clock, you give a slight chuckle.
> Looks like intel was spot on with this one.
> He ran his daily schedule like a machine, precise and punctual.
> All of which only made your job easier.

> Vladmir makes eye contact with you, to which you don't break away.
> He cocks his head to the side before making his was to your cab.
> The hairs on your end stand on end.
> He stands outside the passenger window and knocks on it a few times.

> You lower the window, letting the cool A/C out, and allowing the blaring heat inside.
> Vladmir leans in on the door and pokes his head inside.
> His expression shifts a little bit as he feels the cool air against his skin.
> “Hot day, isn't it?” he begins. His foreign accent is thick.
> To which you simply nod.
> You both pause for a moment before he breaks the silence.
> “Is this cab free?” he asks, peering around and glancing towards the back

> You look at him.
> And look past him.
> Mac is standing but a few feet behind him.
> He gives a slight nod.

> You cough a few times as to not let your voice break before putting on the best Northern accent you could muster.
“Yeah, the cah's open. Need a lift?”
> Vladmir nods and replies, “I need to go to 57th street. Up over to the square.”
“Yeah. I can take you.” you announce.
> You unlock the rear door before amiably asking him to hop in.

> Vladmir doesn't think twice and opens the door to the cab.
> The cool air of the cab soothes his skin.
> He tosses his bag and carefully climbs inside the cab, as to not stain his outfit with the greasy pizza slice.

> He was about to close the door when Mac scurries to the cab door.
> Mac jams his hand between the door and car.
> He re-opens the door and pokes his head inside
> “Mind if I share a cab with you?” he playfully asks, “These guys are just so damn expensive, it helps to save some money, you know?”
> “I do.” Vladmir spitefully replies.
> Mac's expression changes little as he climbs inside the cab, paying little attention to the Estovakian's remarks.
> “Thanks again.” Mac laughs. “You know, you're saving me a fortune here.”
> Vladmir expression changes from disgust to disbelief
> “This cab is taken.” he angrily replies. “Please leave.”
> Mac closes the door behind him and locks the door.

> Mac gives you a glance in the rear view mirror.
> He exchanges a slight nod of understanding with you.
> You lock all the doors and roll up all the windows.
> Turning the “ON DUTY” switch off, you pull out of the street and start speeding down the road.

> Vladmir shifts his attention from Mac over to you.
> “Excuse me? I didn't agree to this.” he loathe-fully snarks, “Stop the cab. Immidiately.”
> You paid him no attention, but instead only increased your speed.
> “Are you deaf!” he shouts. “Stop the cab!”
> Vladmir drops his pizza and reaches for something in his shirt.
> You see this in your rear view and reach for the sidearm holstered against your body.
> However, Mac was quicker to react than you.
> Mac acted on instincts and pulled out a small revolver from the small of his back.
> He grabbed it by the muzzle and beat him with it's butt.

> There was a small struggle in the back of the car, it occasionally rocks the car to and fro.
> Your eyes constantly shifted from the road, to the rear view mirror.
> Carefully monitoring the situation, and keeping your free arm at the holster against your leg.
> Ready to draw it our at a moment's notice.

> But as soon as the skirmish started, it ended.
> A soon bloodied and beaten Vladmir lied against the carpeted floor of the cab.
> Mac's knee pressed hard against his head, with a gun drawn against the base of his skull for good measure.

> “We've got him.” Mac triumphantly announces.
“Thank god.” you sigh.
> “Call it in.” Mac orders.

> You give a slight nod.
> With your free hand, you dial a number with your cell phone.
> A young woman answers the phone, and with baited breath she asks on the status on the mission.
> You can just hear a wave of relief pass over her as you share the good news.
> Content, she explains your next set of orders.

> Hundreds, if not thousands of people found residence within the militarized zone.
> Most of them were Estovakian soldiers, drifting around the city streets during their off shifts.
> Civilians and armed personnel mingled with each other on the city streets.
> And although promised security, a majority of defected citizens chose to stay boarded up inside their homes.
> Hiding under the covers from those who grant them their 'protection'

> You guide the car along the freeway.
> Occasionally slowing down far a caravan of tanks, or jeeps that pass you on the road.

> Under normal circumstances, driving this close to the enemy would almost gaurantee a certain death.
> But the disguise seems to keep up.
> Hidden amongst the dozens, if not hundreds of cabs, you shift your way through traffic.

> “There.” Mac points out, “Take the next exit.”
“You want to take the toll bridge?” you question. “That would take us out the zone.”
> Mac leans up towards the front of the car and squints his eyes.
> “Ah, you're right. Sorry.” he apologizes, “I think it's the one after.”
“Towards the Market District?” you ask.
> Mac snaps his fingers repeatedly and bobs his head up and down.
> “Yeah. Market District.” he snaps, “That's the drop off point.”

> You nod, and quickly change lanes as not to miss your exit.
> Occasionally, you hear a muffled yell erupt from the back.
> Despite being held hostage, Vladmir continues to put up a fight.
> He's a determined one.
> You'll give him that.
> But determination alone can only take a man so far.

> Annoyed with Vladmir's struggles, Mac lands a quick blow to his gut.
> Whimpers of pain soon fill the car. Ones that you quickly drown out with the radio.

> “Just keep driving.” he mumbles. “We'll get there soon enough.”
> You feel a heavy hand on your shoulder.
> Meeting Mac’s eyes in the mirror he starts, “It’s only been a few days since your discharge, I know.” his voice hoarse, yet sincere. “But I need your help now more than ever.”
> He pauses for a moment or two.
> “I’m sorry for pulling you back into the shit so early.”
“Hey.” you reply. “You don’t need to apologize. I’m glad to be here.”
> “That’s a first. I’d give anything to get out of this shit.”
“Even your own life?”
> “Maybe not my own, but I know a few Stovies who are more than willing.” Mac chuckles, all while pressing the pistol against Vladmir’s head.

“If anything, I should be thanking your ass.”
> Mac gives a hearty laughter.
> “Oh yeah?” he blurts “Why’s that? If you like being in the shit so much, I’ll send your sorry ass to the front lines.”
> You brush off Mac’s jesters.
> Instead focusing entirely on the road.

“The nurse told me what you did… Back in the hospice.” you start,
> “I fucking hate the hospice.” Mac grunts.
“There aren’t enough beds for everyone, so to compensate, they churn out patients as quickly as they can get them.”
> “Hmph.”
“If you’re unlucky enough to land in there, the maximum stay anyone can get there is a few days, tops. And once they reach that time limit, the doctors pull the plug on em’ Recovered or not.”
> Mac glances at you and glances out the window.
“I heard you vouched for me, strong armed the doctors to let me stay as long as I needed...At least that’s what the nurse told me.”
> “I just called in some old favors, is all. Nothing special.”
> You scoff.
“Well, whatever you think. I want you to know I’m grateful. That’s the second time you’ve saved my sorry ass.”
> Mac bursts into laughter.
> “And I know for a fact, it won’t be the last!”


> An eerie silence fills the room.
> A silence so deep and punctuating, it makes one's ears feel like they've been filled with cotton.

> Rarity and Twilight stand side by side over the sleeping human.
> His face shriveled and terrified.
> His breathing short and acute.
> And his skin soaked with a cold sweat.

> Anonymous breaks into a dull murmur.
> His lips speaking something soft and barely audible.
> Twilight perks her ears and tries to listen.
> But she quickly droops them back down.
> “I- I don't understand what he's saying.” she whispers.
> “Do you think he's alright?” Rarity asks.
> “I don't know.” Twilight replies.

> Rarity trots over to her own bed.
> She paces around for a few steps before turning back to Twilight.
> “Why was he crying just a minute ago?” Rarity asks. “Why was he screaming? Why doesn't he wake up?”
> Twilight shakes her head.
> “I don't know.” she solemnly replies.

> “This isn't normal, is it?” Rarity asks.
> Twilight take a moment to collect her thoughts.
> Her mind racing back to just yesterday.
> She recalls asking Anonymous the same question.
> And she also recalls the solemn “No.” that was given in response.

> “I don't think so.” Twilight adds.
> “Should we call someone?” Rarity asks.
> “No. I don't think it's a good idea.”
> “Why not?” Rarity replies, “He looks like he's suffering!”
> “It's probably just a nightmare. He'll get by it.” Twilight says, her voice meticulously unsure of herself.




------------------

ORIGINAL POST

> Pinkie Pie was the first to break the silence
> "Woah woah woah, why is everyp0ny so sad all of a sudden? We should be happy! We've just met a new friend!"
> The way Pinkie Pie manages to bounce around the room is amusing to say the least.
> "Princess Celestia, why are you crying? Is something wrong?”  Twilight whispers to Celestia “Is there something I should know about?"
> Celestia responds instantly: "My faithful student Twilight, it’s just that I'm just so excited to meet a real live human such as Anonymous I couldn't help but letting out tears of joy!"
> By no means is Celestia a good liar.
> Becuase Twilight clearly isn’t buying it.
> "But Princess, but what did you mean when you just apologized to An-"
> Suddenly you stomach let's out this loud roar. A sure sign of your ever increasing hunger
> You haven't eaten a proper meal in days.

> The Princess gladly sees this as an opportunity to change the conversation's subject
> "Well well. It seems our guest is quite famished. Now what kind of hostess am I to let my guest starve?"
> Celestia turns her attention to you and shoots you a wink
"Y-Yeah, some food would be nice right about now."
> "Well I'll be, I was wonderin' when we'd get a bite to eat! I'm starvin' over here! Princess you gotta let try me one of them fancy horderves!"
> "Oh! Oh! Will there be cake and dessert there? You just know how much I looove cake!" Pinkie Pie bounces around the room at an alarming rate

> "Wonderful! Twilight be a dear and take your friends up to the dining hall. I'll be up there in a second."
> "But Celestia what abou-"
> "Twilight I'll only be a moment."
> And although hesitant at first, Twilight agrees.
> The girls make their way to the dining hall, leaving you alone with the Princess

> Celestia even dismisses the guards situated in the throne room
> She paces nervously in front of you.
> "Anonymous, I don't know what to make of this."
> She stops to get a good look at you.
> Your tattered clothes and dirty appearance don’t impress anyone
> "It just doesn't make sense Anonymous. I don't know how you arrived, nor do I know why. Do you have any idea?"
"You literally know as much as I do Princess"

> Celestia takes a moment to think over her options.
> "In our Royal Archives there are some old scrolls that contain spells that can send p0nies to lands separated by great distances and time. Perhaps if you'd like, I could try to find one that works for you? If you like, I could send you home."

> Home.
> That word hit’s you hard.
> You'd love to go back and help fight again.
> For your friends.
> For your family.
> For everything you loved.
> ...
> But you can never go back.
> It's impossible.
> You died underneath that bridge, remember?
> To go back would be a complete bastardization of gods work.
> For instead of a heaven or hell, you were sent here.
> To Equestria.
> A land filled with small pastel colored ponies
> You don't know whether this a punishment
> Or a second chance at life.
> Either way, there's no turning back now.

"Princess I don't think I can ever go back."
> You begin to gather your things scattered around the throne room
"You saw what happened. Over there? At my home? I don’t exist anymore.
> Your sling your bags over your back and pick up your rifle on the floor.
"I shouldn't even be alive right now."
> You check the rifle one last time, making sure it's not loaded.

> “Well it looks like this is your home now, and we’re going to make the best of it."
> Celestia walks closer
> "Anonymous, I've seen what you're capable of. I've seen the great feats you and your species have accomplished. There’s so much more we could learn from each other."
> You juggle the thought in your head.
> Even though you were tossed in the fray for a few short months, it felt like fighting was all you knew.
> What could she possibly learn from you?

> Was joining the rebellion really the best course of action?
> Maybe you could have gone with a more diplomatic approach
> You dwell on the 'what if's of the past.
> At the time fighting back seemed to be the only option
> And even though you knew your fighting was justified, deep down you knew that every single enemy you killed was another person
> Another human being such as yourself
> Each one of them with their own friends and family
> You looked down at your hands.
> You've taken the lives of so many with these.

> Funny how so far, you haven't seen anyone else here with hands such as your own
> As a species man has always taken pride in their hands. Using them to their advantage
> The ponies here don’t have hands, and they seem to be doing just fine.
> Your thoughts delve deeper into the subject
> An artist can create beautiful works with his hands.
> A musician can make music with his
> A doctor can even save other people’s lives with his.
> But your hands?
> They were tools of murder.
> Your actions disgust you.
> You snap back into reality

"I doubt there's anything you'd want to learn from me Princess."
> You break eye contact out of pure shame
> "Anonymous. You and I. We're more alike than you think."
> She extends her wing around you and holds you close with her hoof.
> "We've both done things in the past we're not proud of."
> She looks up to one of the stained glass windows.
> The scene depicts a Blue Alicorn standing ominously above the moon.
> "Perhaps there may have been better options. Maybe things didn't have to turn out the way they did."
> A lone tear falls from Celestia's face
> "But the fact is... We need to move forward you and I both. We can't live in the past forever.
"I...I understand."
> You’re still wrapped around the Princess’ wing
> Something about her warm embrace combined with the soft touch of her feathers makes you feel at ease, safe even.
> It made you feel…good.
> Whatever this feeling was, you hadn’t felt this way in a long, long time.
> Much to your dismay she breaks the embrace.
> "Come now Anonymous. Let's meet up with Twilight. Knowing her, I’m she’s become restless by now.

> The Princess leads you out of the throne room and through the castle once more.
> Once again you hear the traditional music that fills the castle walls
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9BJUFJV_uk
> Yep. Still soothing.

> Now whenever you pass by a p0ny in the hall they bow instead of tremble.
> Probably due to your royal escort
> You can still feel their fear.
> [spoiler] It still hurts on the inside. [/spoiler]
> The Princess leads down various hallways and up dozens of staircases
> Before you know it, you've been lead up a tower in the far corners of the castle.
> There are large pieces of tapestry hung about the walls.
> They feature a design that is also tattooed on the Princess' rear.
> Cute.

> The doors before you are guarded by two large stallions
> Presumably her personal guard.
> Man, do these guys ever smile?
> They greeted the princess with honor and respect as she entered.
> But when you tried to enter, they blocked your path with spears.
> [spoiler] Dicks. [/spoiler]

> "Stand down.” Celestia pulls the spears away. “This here is Anonymous. He is my personal guest. I expect you to treat him with the same respect you give me."
> Despite the Princess’ order, they still gave you the stink eye
> “Do I make myself clear?”  Her tone of voice shifts slightly more hostile
> "Yes your majesty."

> With that, you were granted entry into the room.
> Holy shit.
> The room is huge! It's about twice the size of your old apartment!
> There are various windows overlooking the countryside below.
> Many of them have balconies.
"Princess, where are we?"
> "Anonymous, this is my personal living chamber."
> You marvel at the various furnishes in the room
> The center piece is this huge bed in the middle.
> It honestly looks like it's as soft as clouds.
"I gotta hand it to you Princess, this is a pretty nice place you got here."
> "You flatter me Anonymous. But please, make yourself at home."
> With that, you plop down on the nearest chair.
> You lean back against the back rest and plop your feet up on the nearby ottoman.
"Ohh man."
> Holy shit. This is the most comfortable chair you've ever sat in.
> It's almost heavenly

> "Anonymous, I have some business to attend to. I'll only be gone for a moment. Stay put alright?"
"Okay Princess. Whateever you saay"
> This chair is just sapping the life force out of you
> She gives you a childish giggle and steps out onto one of the balconies.
> She’s just out of view from where your sitting.

> You're about to fall into a quick cat nap on the chair when it suddenly hits you.
> You're about to have dinner in front of your hostess and her closest friends
> Your going to be having dinner with Royalty
> This is your chance to make first impressions on many of them.
> And right now, you’re dressed in rags and are absolutely filthy.

> This shit would not fly if you were back on earth.
> Should your standard of living change just because you're not home anymore?
> [spoiler] Of course not. [/spoiler]

> Off in the corner of the room a door catches your eye.
> You walk over to it and open it.
> It's a bathroom
>Jackpot.

> You walk over to the balcony to check if the Princess is still there.
> It seems like you just missed her.
> You can spot her flying in the sky to a nearby tower on the West side of the castle.
> Thank the lord.

> You take this moment to grab your things and hit the bathroom.
> The bathrooms of this world seem to be the same as yours.
> Sink? Check.
> Shower? Check.
> Toilet? Uhhh.
> Upon closer inspection, the toilet looks like one of those oriental style toilets.
> To you, it looks nothing more like a porcelain hole in the floor.
“Ehhh.”
> You didn’t really need to take a piss this moment anyways, you can hold it ‘till later.
> You strip off of your battle garbs and head into the shower.
> Fortunately for you this happens to be Celestia's shower, so it's built tall enough to fit your height.

> Turning on the shower, you are met with a pleasant surprise
> Oh my god.
> Is that hot water?
> You haven't had a hot shower in ages.
> Back in your Resistance Days, hot water was a luxury you could not afford
> The feeling of hot water hitting against your body is pure bliss.

> You use some of Shampoo and Conditioner you find in the shower.
> ‘Mane and Tail Deluxe Shampoo’
> Smells like L’Oreal
> It gives your hair a sort of tingly clean sensation
> Strange.
> Is this what girl's shampoo feels like?
> Quickly you finish your shower drying up with some fresh towels lying about
> They all have the same insignia from the tapestries.
> A small yellow sun.
> Cute.

> You pull out your toiletries from your back pack.
> You apply fresh bandages to some of your wounds.
> Right now, the situation best calls for a clean shave.
> By now, you have worked up a beard that would even make Iroquois Pliskin proud.
> You used a traditional barber’s knife and carfully trimmed the massive beard.
> You chuckle to yourself as you remember your first experience with a razor blade.

> No matter how well your father guided you, you still managed to make a bloody mess of your face.
> With time, you learned how to avoid unsightly cuts and scrapes.
> There’s a loud bang at the door that startles you.
> “Anonymous!? Are you in there?”
“Yeah, I’m just freshening up. Just give me a sec, I’ll be out before you know it.”
> As you look in the mirror, you see blood running down your face.
> Damn, you cut yourself.
> There goes your streak.
> The cut isn’t too deep, it’s nothing a little toilet paper can’t fix.

> You rummage inside your bag for a more formal change of clothes.
> With a quick polish, your boots shine as good as new.
> Good thing you’re prepared for just about everything.
> You fold your tattered battle garments and place them in your bag
> And you put on quick dab of cologne just for good measure.
> Before leaving, you make sure everything was cleaner than when you got here.
“A little common courtesy never harmed anyone, right?”

> You step out back into the bedroom to see a waiting Celestia.
“Just how long were you out here waiting for me?”
> “Not too long. Don’t you recall? I said I’d only be gone for a moment.”
“Right. Anyways, shouldn’t we be going? I’m sure they’re all patiently awaiting us.”
> With a silent nod, she leads you out into the castle once more.
> The main dining hall just so happened to be on another tower on the opposite side of the castle.
> Fuck.
> You picture yourself strolling through the castle with style and grace.
> Not everyone seems to think the same way though.
> There’s something about a well dressed man holding a semi-automatic rifle that put’s the castle’s dweller at unease.

> The sounds of music and laughter fill the hallway
> You can easily recognize some familiar voices.
> Namely, Pinkie Pie’s.
> Her laughter echoes through the hall.
> As you get closer, you can make out more voices.
> “Oh lighten up Twilight! I’m sure they’ll be here any minute!”
> An agitated Twilight responds: “Pinkie! You don’t understand! There’s just so much to learn from him! I have so many questions to ask him! We don’t know how long he’s going to stay and I want to make sure to take advantage of every second he’s here!”
> “Ah’ dunno Twilight. Ah’d be a little more careful around him. Don’t ya remember in the forest? He almost got us killed with that staff of his!”
> When you enter the hall, you find Twilight nervously pacing back and forth.
> Twilight giggles with glee when she realizes you’ve arrived.

> “Finally!”  Pinkie Pie exclaims. “Now what everyp0ny is here, let’s eat!”
> You find place to sit between Rarity and Twilight.
> Slinging the rifle across your back, you sat cross legged in the “chair”
> Seat’s are a bit uncomfortable, but you managed.

> Twilight wasted no time with those questions
> “Anonymous! What happened to all your fur?”
“My what?”
> “All the fur you had on your face! Where did it go?”
“Oh. Uhh I just gave myself a quick shave. It’ll grow back soon.”

> “Oh my Anonymous, this outfit is just absolutely fabulous! It’s so simple, yet so bold! And the material is just excellent! Just where did you get it?”  Rarity asks.
> Apparently, you have an excellent taste in clothing.
> Ironic isn’t it.
“Hmm. I’m pretty sure I bought this when I visited Gracemeria”
> “Gracemeria? I’ve never heard of such a place”
> Just another cold reminder that you’re definitely home anymore
“Gracemeria. It’s the capital city of my home country Emmeria.”
> “Now ah’ve never heard of any country like that! Ya sure you haven’t gotten the name mixed up? Ya did hit yer head mighty hard today”
“No, trust me I’m sure.”

> Twilight looks at you with worried eyes.
> “Anonymous. There is no nation of Emmeria here. There never has been.”

> Rarity pokes you in the rib
> “Anonymous, just exactly where are you from?”
> You don’t even know how to answer that right now
> There really is no simple answer to that question.
> You formulate your response after much thought.
“Rarity. I don’t know how I got here. Actually, I don’t exactly know where ‘here’ is. All I know is that I’m not from here and I’m not supposed to be here.”
> “Anonymous, you’re in the Canterlot Castle in Equestria! Did we not make this clear already?”
“No-no-no, you don’t understand. I mean, where I come from it is only inhabited by Humans. There are no talking p0nies.”
> Twilight pulls out a piece of paper and begins taking notes
“Before I showed up here I lived on a place inhabited by humans, other people. Never in my life have I heard of Equestria before. The concept of unicorns and Pegasus are only found it old legends and fairy tales. I’ve never seen anything like you all before.”
> No one seems content with your answer
> Twilight wouldn’t let it go, pushing deeper with her questions.
> “Well then, do you remember how you got here?”
> You were about to explain your situation when you can felt a telekinetic tug on your leg.
> Celestia’s horn is glowing slightly
> Looking up to her, she gives you a shake of her head.
> Yeah, maybe telling them that you’re actually a martyr isn’t the best idea
> In fact, it’s a terrible idea.
> All that is behind you. Nothing more than a bad memory

“Well I lived in a big city, and I rented out this apartment. I lived on my own. It was just like any other night. I had gotten into bed and fallen asleep. When I woke up, I was lost in a forest. I don’t know what happened.”
> “That’s all you remember?”  Twilight asks suspiciously.
“That’s it.”
> Lielielie
> “Well that seems like a rea-”  Celestia is cut off by Twilight
> “Well, what all those things you were carrying? I never seen anything like them before”
“Those are just some of my possessions. I don’t know why, but I woke up with them scattered around next to me. I didn’t necessarily pick out the things I have on me now, they just appeared. I guess it’s all I have left.”
> “Well, do you intend on staying here or going back home?”
“Well, uhm. I’ve already talked it over with Celestia, and we’ve concluded that there is no way of me going back home. It’s impossible. I’m stuck here.”
> Twilight’s eyes glitter with joy.
> “Oh my gosh, we can learn so much from each other!”
> Your glad that someone is going to benefit from all of this

> Celestia nods in approval of your cover story
> “Oh you poor thing!” Rarity tugs at your shoulder
> “Anonymous, as the Element of Generosity I cannot idly stand by and watch you live in the streets! I insist that you come and stay with me for as long as you need!”
“Oh. Well I don’t know. I don’t want to be a burden.”
> “Oh non-sense. I’ve got plenty of room in the Carousel Boutique
“Ah, well thank you. I appreciate it.”

> Soon enough, various waiters came into the hall.
> They placed various drinks and dishes on the table.
> Your stomach growled in response

> The chefs prepared everything from salad, to pasta to cakes.
> You did notice the distinct lack of meat in these meals.
> It did made sense. Horses are naturally herbivores.
> Regardless, the food is delicious.
> You take time in enjoying the Equestrian cuisine

> A lone bottle on the table catches you attention.
> Much to your surprise, it’s a bottle of red wine.
> Without a second thought you pop open the bottle and pour yourself a glass. You could definitely use a drink after today.
> Finishing the glass, you come to the conclusion that it’s much weaker than the wine you had back home.
> It actually tastes more like juice than wine.

> The dinner goes by quickly.
> It wasn’t long before everyone finished their meals.
> As the p0nies conversed, you just sat, listened and drank.
> You can make assumptions based off their conversations.
> You learn of their lives in a town called P0nyville
> They tell you of their various adventures.
> Their p0ny society was do different
> Here there was no fighting
> No blind hate
> No wars
> You absorb every word of it.
> Before you knew it, you went through 3 bottles of Equestrian Wine

> *BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP*
> There goes the alarm on your watch
> Should you still be at home, this would mark the beginning of your patrol shift.
> After silencing your alarm, you notice everyone is staring at you.
> “Anonymous. What was that?”  Twilight asks.
“Oh. Sorry. It’s just an alarm.”
> “No, I mean, just what is that thing?”  She points to your watch
“Oh come on. You mean you’ve never seen a one of these before?”
> You take off your watch and hand it to her
> “I’ve seen watches before, but none like this. I mean it’s so obscure! Just where are the hands? How do you wind it?”
“ Seriously? You’ve never seen a digital watch before?”
> Everyone at the table shoots you a confused look.
> “Digital? I don’t think they make these here.”
“Oh come on. A digital watch? They’re pretty common where I come from.”
> You’re only met with more confused stares.
“Do you know what a digital watch is?”
> They can’t be serious.
> Do they not know what a fucking watch is?
> Come to think of it, you haven’t seen any advanced technologies since your arrivals
> There were no cars, no signs, no light bulbs, no power outlets. It seems as if they haven’t harnessed electricity yet.
> Hell, the guards around the castle carried spears and swords.
> In retrospect, just about every single thing you came across looked like it has hand built with high effort and care by a skilled artisan
> Have they not reached the industrial revolution either?
> You juggle the thought in your head.
> You look around at your surroundings one last time.
> Everything in the room looked handmade by some sort of skilled craftsman.
> Yeah, they definitely haven’t.

> “Anonymous, what other functions can this do?”
> You decide to go with it and flaunt man kind’s technological genius.
“This little guy? It’s just one of the various devices humans back home have developed. It does the basic functions any clock would do and more. It tells me the time for multiple time zones, the date, it has an alarm, it can be used underwater, it’s got a stop watch and it can be used in the dark and it can even run on solar power.”
> Now you’ve even gotten Celestia’s attention.
> “Solar power?” Celestia asks.
> You pour yourself another glass of wine.
> This was going to be a long night.

> You spent the next few hours answering questions as they popped up.
> You tried your best at dodging any concepts that had to do with fighting or war.
> Instead you told the ponies about your civilian life before the start of the war.
> You showed them some photos of your friends and family from your wallet.
> Using Twilight’s paper, you sketched the topography of your homeland.
> However, everyp0ny became more interested in the way you held the quill in your hands. Apparently, you were one of the few species on this planet to have opposable fingers
> That ultimately led to a quick course on bone structure in human beings.
> Which then led to a crash course in human anatomy and an explanation of modern medicine.
> Twilight nearly fainted when you explained the concept of the artificial heart to her.

> You even shared some of your personal life.
> Turns out the p0nies have a similar ideology to yours
> Ultimately revolving around the pursuit of happiness.
> The conversation was lively and cheerful.

> Hell, you even got Fluttershy to warm up around you.
> When she noticed your razor cut, she went through hell and back to make sure you were all right.
> Her intentions were sincere, but misguided.
> By the time you had finished speaking; Twilight had written hefty stack of notes.
> In turn you asked questions as well.
> You were given the basics of Equestrian living.
> You learned about Unicorn’s magic and the Pegasus’ weather control.
> And as vague as it was, much of the phenomena here could just be explained with just “magic”
> The lack of a logical explanation bothered you.
> But then again, here you were in a magical fairy tale land inhabited by 4 foot tall pastel colored equines.
> You should be dead right now, so you can’t really complain.

> You make your way back upstairs to the bed chambers
> You’d be sharing a room with Twilight and Rarity.

> As soon as Rarity opens the door you dash inside and jump on the nearest bed.
> POMF.
“Dibs.”
> “In that case, I suppose this one is mine.”  Rarity walks over the bed next to yours and places her luggage at the foot.
> Twilight on the other hand, heads straight for the desk situated in the corner.
> She’s going to be busy going over her new notes.

> It was getting late.
> You take out your rifle and your cleaning kit.
> You took the time and care making sure everything worked as it should.
> Most of the parts where affixed in a mickey mouse job. So they required constant maintenance.
> You loaded the magazines you had with rounds and loaded some into the rifle.
> When you finished you placed it underneath your bed.
> You quickly clean out your Revolver and place it on the night stand.
> This was a routine you picked up while in the resistance.
> Some habits just never change.

> It’s about time to call it a night.
> You change out of your clothes, leaving only your boxers.
> You can hear Rarity gasp behind you as you remove your shirt.
> “Anonymous!”
“Hmmm?”  You’re completely oblivious to their shock
> Twilight points to your exposed body.
> It is covered with scars and burns.
> The bloodstained bandages where proof that some wounds were still fresh.

> “Wha- What happened to you?”
> You had forgotten about the scars, evidence of your past life.
> The battlefield left a heavy toll on your body and mind.
> Calmly, you try to play it off.
“Oh, this? It’s nothing, really. No big deal.”
> You put a T-shirt on and climb into your bed, ready to fall asleep.
> Twilight lifts you out of bed and removes your shirt. “No big deal? My gosh, just look at this! This looks like it hurt. Some of these are still bandaged!”
> “Does it hurt?”  Rarity pokes at your bandaged shoulder, pain erupting in response.
“Arrgh. It kinda does.”  You shudder in pain.
> Twilight brings you over to where she was and gets you at eye level with her.
> “Anonymous. Is there something you’re not telling me? Listen, I know you and the Princess discussed something when we weren’t around.”
> Your palms were getting sweaty.
> What if she could pierce into your thoughts as well?
> I mean, she was the Princess’ personal protégé.
> No, you would have felt it by now.
> “I just want you to know, even though we’ve only met today, you can trust us. We’re the Elements of Harmony after all.”

> Elements of Harmony
> You still didn’t understand the concept behind all that.
> It was a nice title though.

> “That being said, are you sure you don’t want to tell me anything?”
> You consider your options.
> Was all this really worth hiding?
> Why don’t you just tell them the truth?
> A glint of light from your revolver catches your eye.
> Oh yeah.
> You’re a murderer.
> That’s why.
“I’ve told you everything Twilight. I have nothing to hide.”
> You stare coldly into Twilight’s eyes. Hoping she would buy your bluff.
> Her gaze as cold as yours.
> “Alright Anonymous.”  She places you back on the bed “Good night then”
> Twilight is obviously agitated with your response.
> She knows you’re not telling her the truth.
> Rarity pokes you once again.  “Are you sure you don’t want me to get fetch a doctor? It looks quite painful.”
“No Rarity. I’m fine. Honest! It doesn’t hurt.”
> You give yourself a quick punch, and even though it was excruciating, you suppressed any signs of pain.
“See? Nothing!”
> “Well alright, whatever you say Anonymous.”
> You tossed on this warm smile that reassured any doubt she had.
“Rarity?”
> “Yes Anonymous?”
“Call me Anon. Only strangers refer to me as ‘Anonymous’”
> “Alright, Anon.”
> Using her magic, she blows out the lights.
> Except for the sound of Twilight’s writing, the room was silent.
> You had an excellent view out the window from your bed.
> The moon was full and the stars glittered proudly.
> You tried to stay awake and reflect on your life.
> So much has happened in the past couple days, it’s ridiculous.
> It felt as though your life was been on hiatus since start of the war.
> You try to remember the last time you had a normal day like this one.
> This train of thought doesn’t last long, soon your eyelids become heavy.
> It’s not long before you fall asleep.

> There’s light shining in your eyes.
> It’s blinding
> Instinctively, you avert your gaze
> Looking around, you take in your surroundings.
> There’s a thunderstorm overhead, and you’re soaked to the bone.
> You find yourself prone in a muddy ditch, your clothes covered in mud and dirt
> You’ve been waiting in this position for hours.
> Most of your muscles have fallen asleep.
> A voice rings from your headset.
> “Alright boys, you know what to do.”
> You remember this place all too well.
> That blinding light?
> Those were a pair of headlights.
> Some military vehicles are traveling the road in front of you.
> A few halftracks, jeeps and a technical make up this convoy.
> That HMG on the technical puts you at unease.

> The tires on the first truck explode.
> The spike strips worked.
> The convoy screeches to a halt, and one by one the soldiers disembark.

> You gripped the assault rifle in your hands.
> Slowly bringing it up a suitable firing position.
> There’s a round in the chamber and the safety’s off.