Chapter seventeen: Rescue mission.
Queen Twilight and Princess Daydream had reached one of the external courtyards. Queen Twilight was starting to get tired and dizzy once more. "Queen Twilight it is good to see you again". Some pony says. It was Autumn. "Well, it is nice to see you too Autumn and may I say you look radiant. May I ask will you be staying here until the birth or returning to Earth with Axium"? Queen Twilight asks. But before Autumn could answer a captain of the Royal guard walks over. Princess Daydream holds out her forelegs for him to pick her up. Which he did. He and any other of the guards that work closely with the royal family are more than happy to pick up Daydream. Has they all found it to be a pleasant experience, she gives every and any pony a hug. And the staff and guards love her as though she was their child.
"Well, hello Your Royal Highness it is a pleasure to receive a hug from you". He says. And Daydream smiles as she hugs him. He walks over to Autumn and Queen Twilight who both were smiling at him and Daydream. For Twilight it was just nice to see her little girl happy and full of joy. A sad contrast to herself who was feeling a little heartbroken. And after this afternoon she will be more so. Her trailing thoughts were interrupted when the guard captain asks. "Good morning Your Majesty. Here to check up on preparations for the parade"? Twilight shakes her thoughts away. "Yes, Captain Peacewalker. Princess Daydream and I are completing my royal duties together. And so how have you been Daniel"? She replied. "I couldn't be happier Your Majesty. Even better now that I have had a hug from her Royal Highness. And I think the festival of Friendship and Harmony will be the best ever one, this year". He says in reply.
The Queen didn't look happy though and the captain knew. "I would also like to add my sympathies to Your Majesty on the loss of two close friends". He says. There was a moment of silence before the queen answered. "Thank you, Captain Peacewalker. It is a day tainted by sadness. Yet from this sadness being here there will be a reason for Equestria to be happy. I will let you know when I let every pony else know. Oh yes captain will you do me a favor? Would you place a wreath on Albert's grave? From me and the other Royals". Captain Peacewalker answered. "Yes, Your Majesty". Queen Twilight smiled and said. "Thank you, my friend. Daydream come along we have taken enough of the captain's time". The guards working in the courtyard stop what they were doing and bow in respect. When they stand once more, they find themselves smiling as they see Princess Daydream waving goodbye.
"Now, where was I? oh yes. Sunset's and Twilight's wedding ceremony had just concluded. When a badly injured Adagio had come bursting in looking for help. Before collapsing. Sunset, Twilight and their friends were upset that their friend was hurt. I let my horn with magic. A puff of smoke. And Bright Heart appeared. "Bright Heart treat her quickly. She was attacked by one of the Elements of Disharmony". I say. And she rushes over to the unconscious Adagio. After a few minutes Bright Heart turns and says. "Your Majesty I have done all I can. But she is still in danger. I have stabilized her enough to get her to an operating theatre. Has she has received a crushed kidney, a tear in her liver and ruptured spline. If she doesn't, she will not survive".
"What do you suggest Bright Heart"? I ask. "Take her to the nearest hospital as soon as possible. Maybe we should use the shuttle". She replied. I look at Axium and Tempest who step closer. "I'll get the shuttle ready". Says Tempest. And Axium picks up Adagio and goes to carry her to the shuttle. "Detective would you please contact the nearest hospital and have them clear the way for the shuttle". I say and he bows. Meanwhile we had not notice that poor Sunset was shaking. She had inadvertently gotten some of Adagio's blood on her gowned. Still shaking she sees Axium carrying a lifeless Adagio out. Twilight and Flash move closer to her and has she had started to sob. Looking up she sees me preparing to leave. She gets up and starts to run after me. "Please Your Majesty can we go to the hospital with her. Please Your Majesty please". She says. The worried look on her face told me that she would not take no for an answer.
I nod and the three of them join us. A few hours later at the hospital. "Detective she has come out of theatre. She will take months to recover. And so, take it easy. She would have died if not for the triage given by the Equestrian doctor. She stemmed the bleeding and healed most of her wounds I take it she didn't have the proper equipment at hand". Says the doctor. "Have you informed the others yet". The Detective asks and the doctor shakes his head and says. "Not yet and as for the other matter she was brought in a few hours before hand. She lost a lot of blood and was suffering a pneumonia type disease. We have administered some antibiotics and it has reduced her fever and the bullet has been removed. She should make a recovery, but it too will take time". Replied the doctor. Detective Whitetail turns and heads to where Sunset, Twilight, Flash and their families were sitting. Sunset was curled up asleep huddled and being cuddled by her new wife.
Twilight was stroking Sunset's hair. Comforting her upset wife. She had been through a terrible ordeal and the latest events had affected her very badly. Seeing the detective approach Twilight sat up quickly. Waking Sunset up. Rubbing her eyes, she sees the Detective. Worried it was bad news her lip starts to quiver. Her eyes water. The detective kneels down by her. As a nervous looking Sunset stares, the fear that she was gone in her eyes. "She will be okay". He says and the look of relief is now spreading across Sunset's face. Grabbing him and tearfully hugging him. "He needs to be stopped. Detective please you need to stop him from harming my friends. Don't let him please don't let him. Don't let him do what he did to me to my friends". She cries. And as she continues to cry, he holds her tight he says. "I will I promise. You just need to stop worrying it won't do you any good. Now let's get you three home".
Later that day. I was shown to were Mage Meadowbrook was. "Your Majesty I am sorry, but she may not respond she has been heavily sedated. This is due to the extreme pain she is in". Says the doctor just before they open the door. There in the room, lying in the bed and hooked up to monitoring equipment lay Mage Meadowbrook. Stepping closer to the bed I was about to speak. When Mage Meadowbrook woke with a startled look. Seeing the detective, the doctor and me. "Your Majesty, thank Celestia I found you. The evil that has plagued our world as attacked Sires Hollow. Many of the inhabitants have been killed others hurt and injured". She says. I gasp with shock. And with some trepidation I ask. "What. What about Stellar Flare and Firelight"? With a saddened look Mage Meadowbrook answered. "I think they were patients in the infirmary when they assaulted it. So, I'm not sure but I don't think they survived". I am completely shocked as to how would I tell your Auntie Starlight and Uncle Sunburst that their parents had probably been killed.
After talking to Mage Meadowbrook, we had gotten a picture of the size of the force that had taken Sonata and the other girls. I then go and see Adagio. She had finally come around in a recovery room. "Adagio. Adagio. Wake up Adagio. Sunset and Twilight are here". Says Flash. Slowly Adagio opened her eyes. Sunset was still in her wedding dress. "Are you an angel". Adagio croaked on first seeing Sunset. "She is to me". Came a reply it was Twilight. As Adagio's sight focused, she saw Flash, Twilight and Sunset standing over her bed. And in the background, me and Detective Whitetail. "Ms. Dazzle I am Detective Andy Whitetail. And I would like to ask you about those that attacked you and kidnapped your friends. If I may". He asked. Nodding slowly still feeling groggy and in pain. "I'll take it slow if that will help"? He asked and again Adagio nods.
"You were approached by a wounded woman. Is that correct"? He asked and Adagio nodded in reply. Showing her a picture of Mage Meadowbrook and asked. "Is this the woman"? Adagio sits up and holds the picture. "Yes, this is her". She says. "Yes, that is her she said her name was Mage Meadowbrook. I wonder why she didn't recognize me, Aria and Sonata. She did help to banish us three here over a thousand years ago". She continued. The detective looked at me as to say how many of your people are on Earth. "So, she spoke to you"? He asked. "Yes, she spoke in old Ponish but I myself Sonata and Aria could understand. She said who she was. That she was hurt and needed help. That she was attacked by the Elements of Disharmony and that she was from Equestria. It was strange. She knew we were Equestrian but not who we were". Replied Adagio. The detective was to ask what happened next. "Sonata was the closest to her and when she touched Sonata a white light engulfed all three of us. After that we had what is it that Sunset calls it, that's right ponied up". She says. I step closer and Sunset held her hand. The relief on her face was showing.
She was so glad that her friend was safe. "Sunset, Twilight forgive me I hope I didn't spoil your special day. I didn't have the intention of doing so". Adagio says. Sunset squeezes her hand and smiles, and Twilight says. "No Adagio you didn't. only those that attacked you tried and failed. Shimmy my sweet, he must have been on his way to get Mage Meadowbrook when he decided to scare you". Before moving over and kissing Adagio's forehead. She then stands behind Sunset and wraps her arms around her wife. "Now let's get back to what happen". Says the detective before asking. "So, you ponied up. Is that when you were attacked"? Adagio shuck her head. "No Principal Cadence arrived to take us to the church for the wedding. So sorry we missed it. She had called an ambulance for Mage Meadowbrook. Then went with her". She says.
The detective then pulls another picture. "Now MS Dazzle please be extremely sure when you answer. Is this the man that attacked you and your friends and kidnapped them"? He says and turns the picture round. "Please take your time and have a good look". He adds. The picture was of Officer James Tirek in his officers' uniform. However, there was a bad side to showing his picture. On seeing it and his eyes. Sunset started to shake uncontrollably. Both Twilight and Flash try to comfort her. This doesn't go unnoticed by Adagio. "That's him. He attacked us". Replied Adagio. "Are you sure". Asked the detective. "Yes, it is him. Sonata said that we needed to stop him doing what he did to you Sunset, she didn't explain exactly what it was. But she was more adamant when he grabbed Sugar Coat licked her face and started to run his hand up her leg and was about to run it under her skirt". She replied.
This statement brought back all the terrible detail of her ordeal to poor Sunset that she starts to panic. Flash was still holding her, and he says. "It's okay Sunset it's okay. He can't get you he can't hurt you. Not anymore. We won't let him". Still panicking Sunset pulls and fights her way out of his hold and the arms of her wife. Swinging her fists, she caught Flash with a glancing blow. But hit her wife square in the jaw. Seeing Twilight on the floor. Sunset realized that it was her who had it her and so ran from the room crying. Flash helped Twilight up. Then he ran after Sunset. Twilight had started to get angry. Clenching her fists turns to Detective Whitetail and says. "Detective you need to stop him and put him away. But I will say this if I gets the opportunity, I will kill him for raping my Sunset and tormenting her I promise you that".
Adagio gasps. And Twilight runs out after Flash and her wife. Adagio looks at both me and Detective Whitetail. And she asks. "Is it true. Did he rape. Rape Sunset"? "I am afraid so Adagio. And he was probably thinking about doing it to Sugar Coat". I reply. And we continue to speak with Adagio for an hour or so. And as we were finished, she says. "I hope you get him Your Majesty and he doesn't escape. He deserves to die for what he has done". There was a light tap on the door. And Flash steps in. "How's Sunset"? I asked. "Still upset but a lot calmer. Twilight got her to sleep. Finally,". Back in Sires Hollow in Equestria. Tirek had turned the small town into an armed camp. With only a few of its inhabitants left turned into slaves. The girls taken were pushed and pulled out of the SUV. Aria and Indigo help Sonata who was injured. "Move it or I will snap your neck". Says Tirek and with the back of his hand hit Sour Sweet across her face. Splitting her lip causing it to bleed. Lemon Zest helped her up you could see that Sour Sweet was crying.
Letting go of Sonata, Aria shouts. "YOU BASTARD". And strikes Tirek. Hitting him in his face. This causes a deep wide gash on his left cheek. Bleeding and angered he clenched his fist and strikes Aria. Knocked down Aria sees him head to Indigo and Sonata. Pushing Indigo away from Sonata, he holds Sonata in one hand. Making another fist he smiled sinisterly. You could see that Sonata was scared. He pulled back his arm and. "NO SONATA NO". Cried the girls as he started to beat Sonata mercilessly. Aria shouts after he had hit Sonata several times. "STOP, STOP DON'T HURT HER PLEASE I'LL DO ANYTHING YOU WANT".
Tirek stops and there was a look in his eyes. "Anything"? He asks. Before letting go of the now semi-conscious Sonata. "Anything"? He repeats and steps closer to Aria. He turns to the Obsidians and says. "Lock them up, but this one is mine". And grabs Aria's wrist. As the other girls were being pushed into the infirmary. He pulls Aria closer to him and says sadistically. "It will be fun breaking your spirit. And I know I will break it. Just like your friend. Sunset Shimmer. And I enjoyed every minute of it. And I know I will enjoy it with you". And starts to laugh. That evening we returned to Equestria, joined by Sunset, Twilight and the other girls. And though ill-advised Adagio also joined us. Worried for both Sonata and Aria. And worried that Twilight would kill him first before she could. But she did agree with Twilight. They both believed he deserved to die.
And unbeknown to me Axium had sent Summer ahead to do recon.
When she reached the cliff side above the town she watched and felt saddened by what she saw. Bodies. Bodies lying in the street like discarded food wrappers. But what made her cry was that she saw Tirek he had brought out three little fillies from where they kept the prisoners. He also dragged Aria out. He had two Obsidians stake a chain to the ground, then fasten it to Aria's ankle. Turning to the three little fillies he looked at each one in turn. Finding the one that was scared the most. Placing a hand behind his back. An Obsidian had walked over and gave him a baseball bat. Turning to face Aria he says. "Now you will beg me to give you a date hot stuff". Aria looked at him then looked at the three little fillies. Whatever he was planning, it wasn't anything good. Though once a bad guy as your brother would put it, even she couldn't hurt children. He steps closer to her and says. "Well". Aria in defiance gathered the saliva in a big mouthful and spat it right in his face.
He slaps her and splits her lip. But that doesn't stop Aria being defiant. Gathering another mouthful this time with blood spat in his face once more. "When I get lose, I'm going to shove that bat up your arse. After I have smashed your nuts to paste". He hits her again. But he realized that Aria would not be broken like that. As long as he was beating her. He wouldn't be hurting her friends. He stands and says to her. "I see your own safety doesn't concern you". He then moves over to stand in front of the little fillies. He pointed at the smallest and says. "Come here little one". But she doesn't move she was too scared to. "I said come here". He says. But still the little filly doesn't move. He takes one step closer to them. "DON'T". Shouts Aria. She guessed that he was going to hurt the child. And she was right. He goes to grab the smallest but the eldest of the three jumps in front of her.
Picking her up he just tosses her aside. Aria realized why he had the baseball bat and pulled at the chain. Trying to pull the stake out of the ground. He needed to be stopped, she needed to stop him. He reaches once more for the cowering little filly. Her eyes wide and full of fear. But the eldest had leaped at him again. So instead of getting the other one he grabbed the filly by the leg. And drove her into the ground. Now holding the bat in both hands, he raised it above his head. Before bringing it down crashing into the filly's hind leg. He strikes her in the flank. And was swinging again. Again, and again. The other Fillies cried and screamed as they had to witness their sister being beaten to death. Aria was still trying to free herself. Until.
Finally, she could not watch him beating a child anymore. "STOP PLEASE STOP. LEAVE HER BE, I BEG YOU. I BEG YOU I BEG YOU". Inside the infirmary the other prisoners could hear what was happening. "It seems he has taken a shine to your friend. He will violate her soon but only after he as caused her pain. And when he does, he will make her suffer". Says one of the guards to Sugar Coat and the others. Back on the hilltop Summer couldn't stand it anymore. She was looking down the scope of a rifle. She was planning on shooting him. Pulling back and pushing the bolt to arm it. Holding her breath, she starts to squeeze the trigger. But stops herself. If she did shoot him his troops may kill all those they held in the town. She had gotten the information she needed and was about to leave. When she hears Aria shout. "PLEASE". He moves over to her and she looks past him. The little filly was lying unconscious but still alive. Barely.
"I found that entertaining". He says. "You Bastard I hope the Royal Guards get here and see what you have done. They will make you pay". He just laughs. As the other fillies try to wake their injured sister. "Are you going to beg now". He says and Aria tries to get him clawing and swinging her fists and growling and screaming with anger, but he was just out of reach. "There are still two left. Maybe their lives mean nothing to you. But I bet your friends do". He says then grabs her top. Ripping it of her, leaving her naked from the top down. "Nice melons". He says as he grabs one of Aria's breasts, he then wipes the blood of the bat with her top before tossing it back at her. After he turns, he heads over to the fillies once more. Aria realized what he meant when he said 'date' he meant he wanted to have sex with her. Either willingly or unwillingly. But what she didn't know was he hoped it would be unwillingly. He would enjoy it more that way.
G rabbing the smallest of the two fillies that was still conscious. She fought her little heart out, but she could not stop him. He raised the bat above his head once more. "STOP. YOU BASTARD YOU. YOU WANT MY BODY? THEN HAVE MY BODY I WON'T STOP YOU. JUST LEAVE THEM ALONE. COME AND RAPE ME THAT'S WHAT YOU WANT. AM I RIGHT? WELL JUST LEAVE THEM ALONE AND COME AND RAPE ME". Screams Aria. Tirek stops and turns to face Aria. Now crying and no longer trying to free herself Aria repeats. "Please just leave them alone and rape me I won't fight or struggle or stop you. Use and abuse my body any way you like. Just please I beg you leave them alone". But Tirek had lost his sexual appetite with the fact that she wouldn't struggle. "Take them back to their cell". He orders the Obsidians. One pulls the stake out of the ground.
The other heads for the little fillies. It asks. "And the one beaten sir". Tirek turns and says. "Leave her she probably will die soon". His callous tone showing his contempt for others. After they had entered the infirmary Summer had crept closer to the town. Seeing an opportunity, she grabs the injured filly and heads back to where she had parked an electric powered cart. She used it because it was quiet. As she drove back to my castle the little filly started to regain consciousness. "Daddy". She cries. "Shush little one you are safe now. I will protect you. I will protect you I promise. Shush sleep now". Replies Summer. Arriving an hour later and taking the little filly to Ponyville Hospital before reporting to the castle.
Inside the Map room, which I was using as a war room. A guard knocks the door. "Specialist Summer Hope". He says and Summer walks in. After she was right next to me, Axium and Tempest she salutes and says. "Recon Specialist Summer Hope reporting in as ordered". Axium and Tempest both return the salute and Axium says. "Your report Specialist". And Summer Starts. "Your Majesty. Mage Meadowbrook was right. The enemy has attacked the town of Sires Hollow. And I am afraid the report was correct and most of the inhabitants were killed during the assault. And I can confirm that this unit is being led by Tirek. Unit strength is about ninety including Tirek. Since the attack, they have turned it into an armed prison camp. Most of the buildings have been levelled. But there are still. A few standing". Before she continued, she slipped off the pendant and transforms into a unicorn. Lighting up her new horn she made the Cutie Mark map zoom into Sires Hollow. "As to the location of the enemy troops. They are located here when off duty". She says pointing at a building located in the south of the town. "But they do have four three pony patrols. The pattern is this; they patrol in opposite directions to each other. Only crossing each other's path at these four points". Pointing at the map once more.
"They have a lookout in the clocktower here. And snipers here, here and here". Showing us on the map. "Tirek has taken Townhall has his own. And has turned it into a torture chamber. And I witnessed his depraved cruelty firsthand. I saw him beat a little filly half to death. In front of her sisters just to torment Aria Blaze. He felt her up before having her and the other two fillies taken here". She pointed to a large building. "It's the infirmary. The prisoners are held in the wards on the second and third floors. About twenty troops located on the ground floor". She says. There was another knock on the door. And the guard steps in. "Assistant Head Mare Starlight Glimmer and Crystal Empire Royal Court Wizard Sunburst and Trixie Lulamoon". He says. And in steps Starlight, Sunburst and Trixie.
"Princess Twilight why did you call me here, I have a lot of work to deal with. With the school's reconstruction"? Says Starlight. I move closer to them but before I could say anything. Sunburst notices the map. "Hey this is Sires Hollow. But why"? He asks. Looking at them both and then say. "Starlight, Sunburst I have some bad news. The Elements of Disharmony have attacked your hometown. And it looks like your Mother and your father have been killed in the assault. I am sorry so very sorry". Starlight and Sunburst look shocked. "No please no. tell me it isn't true. It isn't true it can't be. Poppa please Your Majesty please say it isn't true. Please". Says Starlight. But I can't all that I could do was to go and try to hug her. From the second my left front leg wrapped around her she knew what I was saying was true. She starts to cry. "No poppa no. Celestia why. Why my poppa". Slowly I stroke her mane. Trying desperately to comfort her. I know that what I said or did, wouldn't make her feel any better. But I had to try. After holding her for what seemed the better part of the night, I teleported her, myself and Trixie to her room. Next to her bed. Levitated her into it and covered her up. Even now sleeping, worn out by constantly crying there were a few sobs. And mutters of No dad.
"Trixie, I don't need to ask this, but will you stay here a watch over Starlight, she will need her friend. And I know because like me you care about her". I say quietly to Trixie before giving her a hug. "You can count on me Princess. And Twilight. make them pay for hurting our Starlight". She replies and I release the hug she sits next to Starlight's bed and gently strokes her mane. At the same time Summer had returned to the hospital to see the little filly she had saved. It had stirred something in her heart. While she was Axium went over the data and intelligence. He was formulating a plan. A plan to rescue those being held by Tirek. And if all possible capture Tirek. He was still thinking and discussing the mission with Tempest.
"Captain. I think that my team should go in. We are trained in hostage rescue. But your forces can help. I see there are those who change shape. Could help us". He says. I arrived back in the map room and Axium and Tempest had devised a plan. The rest of his team where there too. As well as three changelings. And two full squads of Friendship guard. Once I entered and was now standing by the map. "Thank you everyone for being here. Her Royal Highness as asked us with freeing hostages in the small town of Sire's Hollow". Says Axium has Tempest zoomed the map into Sires Hollow. Turning a with a nod thanked her then continued. "For those that do not know but this is the hometown of Lady Starlight Glimmer. The School of Friendships counsellor and assistant Head mare and Element of Justice. Sire Hollow. This is what the town currently looks like. Has you can see the enemy have near completely raised it to the ground. And wiping out most of the inhabitants. This mission isn't to get revenge for them, but to save those that are trapped there". The Guards and his team looked with horror. "Sir are you sure that the intelligence is correct about the status of the inhabitants"? asked one of the guards.
But before Axium could answer Summer says. "It's correct. I witnessed the bodies just left were they fell. I had to bite my lip when I saw that evil bastard beating a little one to her death. Luckily your friend Your Royal Highness managed to stop him in time. And for her trouble he sexually assaulted her". The guards go quiet, shocked by what summer had said. Tempest broke it by continuing the mission briefing. "Well, let us continue. There will be three teams. Team one will be led by Colonel Axium and consists of Summer, Autumn, Greyson, Sam and Daniel. Team two will be led by Albert. And consists of Garrus, Mordin and Kasumi. And team three will be led by myself and will be the rest of you. I will now hand back to Colonel Axium. Colonel". She smiles and steps back. Axium steps up again.
"Thank you, Captain Tempest. Now for the assignments. Team three Diversion. You will start a fire fight here. Thanks to her Royal Highness and with the training we've given the Friendship Guard you can use human weapons. Your objective for your part is to make the enemy draw out as many troops from the town. The less we have to deal with in town the better chance we have to freeing the hostages unharmed. Team two overwatch. You will be stationed on the cliff side Summer used to observe the town and gathered the intel we currently using". He says. The three changelings looked surprised. "You three probably wondering why I put you with our top marksman. Simple you three out all the guards we've trained are adept with a long-ranged weapon. So, I want our top snipers covering our exit. Albert you and your team will take out the lookout and the three enemy snipers' nest that are located in the clock tower. Roof of the infirmary and townhall. This will allow my team to infiltrate the town unnoticed. Summer has you know where the hostages are, you Sam and Daniel will go for the hostages. And find out any information on the following subjects. Stellar Flare and Firelight. Myself, Autumn and Greyson will take Townhall and gather intel. Captain back to you". He says.
Tempest steps forward. "Our primary objective is the safe release and recovery of hostages. I will have Friendship one standing by at these Coordinates. The ship will transport the Hostages and the three teams back home safe. Our secondary objective if all possible capture James Tirek, so when the war with Elements of Disharmony and their leader Harbinger is over, that he can stand trial for all his crimes. Princess is there anything you wish to add"? She says. I step forward and take in a deep breath. "I know that we are all different species and races and I hate having to ask any creature to put their life in jeopardy for creatures they have never met, but I must ask it. And like I have said we are all different in our own ways. But we all have the same values, when it comes to peace. We may never understand each other thoroughly. Like the other day I was speaking to Detective Whitetail and he asked me if I had seen a picture. And I thought he meant the piece of artwork. And I know that our sports bewilder you humans, and I can say that Soccer will remain a complete mystery to us. But it does show one thing that will both take our sport more seriously than war. So, all I can say is let us do our duties and put an end to this devastating war and return to sport and peace. So good luck everyone. And come home safe". I say.
The waiting was dreadful I could tell you Daydream. It just seemed like I was going to go insane waiting to hear from them. if the mission was successful. But I would have to wait. They had decided to be completely silent until the mission was over. Teams one and Two left after they equipped the necessary equipment and supplies needed. Team three left an hour and half later in a shuttle. While not in use, Tempest had learnt all the features of Friendship One. A new feature was an invisibility field. Which they used for this mission. I watched and prayed that all would return safely as the ship left to be ready at the rendezvous point. And yet I started to get the funny feeling. An uneasy feeling, I would be facing the Elements of Disharmony very soon. Soon and alone.
Teams one and two had taken several electric carts. One for everyone in Axium's team. Albert's team rode in one. The reason they would need them to move all the hostages to safety. Arriving at the drop off point Albert, Garrus, Mordin and Kasumi jumped off the cart. They now had a hard and lengthy climb in front of them. "Okay Albert time is 04:35 hrs and sixteen seconds. Sync. Remember wait until most of the enemy troops leave to engage Captain Tempest and her team. She will be beginning her diversionary assault at 08:00 hrs exactly. We all need to in position ready". Says Axium. "Understood sir". Replied Albert before turning to his teammates and says. "Okay you heard the Colonel let's move out they are depending on us to cover them". and after the four salute Axium they start off up the rock face. It took them around 30 minutes to reach the top.
"Right we just need to reach the bluff overlooking the town". Albert says before they carried on. A few minutes more and they had reached their position. "Set up your guns. While we wait". Says Albert as he opened the case to his rifle. His rifle was different to the others in that it was older looking. He had finished setting up the rifle and got a spotter scope out. Looking through he targets the area's Summer had pointed out. "Found the one on the roof of townhall. That one is yours Garrus". He says and Garrus replied. "Yes sir". And got to a spot that would give him a clear, unobstructed shot. Albert then scans the clock tower. "Kasumi you will take out the spotter in the top of the tower". He says after he pointed out she will need to aim at the actual belfry. "Yes sir". She replied. Albert continued to scan he sees that there are three snipers on the roof of the infirmary. "That's my target". He says and continued to scan the location of the third sniper nest. "Now where are you my friend"? He says out loud.
That was because at first, he couldn't see the sniper. But just has the sun crested over the mountain behind them, a beam caught the lens of the sniper's scope. Seeing it glinting in the sun Albert turns to Mordin and says. "There you are. Crafty using a child's room. No one would expect it. Mordin there top window of that building to the right of the bookshop". Mordin looks down his rifle and replies. "Yes, Sir I have him". Albert sees a small infer-red light in the scope. Using a infer-red pointer he flashes back. It then returned the signal with three rapid flashes. "The colonel and the others are in position". Now we just need to wait". The three responds with sir. Albert then takes his rifle aims down the scope and counts. "One, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten". He then presses the button on the side of the rifle. And starts to count once more. He had noticed a pattern in the movements of the three snipers on the infirmary roof. At a certain point they overlapped. It was a small chance he could hit all three with one shot.
Then in the distance there was a rumbling sound. Tempest and Her group had begun their diversionary assault. Suddenly all hell broke loose in the town. Tirek hadn't come out but most of the Obsidian troops had and had begun to head off to re-enforce their comrades. "Okay kiddies this is it remember exhale. Empty all the air out of your lungs and hold your breath when ready and squeeze". Says Albert and all four look down their rifle scopes. And they squeeze the triggers. You don't hear the shots. Has they been using sound suppressors. Albert had pulled back the bolt of his rifle and pressed the little button. Inside his scope a countdown timer appeared. And when it reached zero, he fired. The round whizzed through the air.
Reaching the snipers just as they were in a single line. The bullet hit and passed through the first one's head right next to the temple. And carried on traveling straight through the back and base of the skull of the second until hitting the third squarely in the left side of his chest. Straight into the heart. All three were killed instantly. This impressed the three guards he was with. "Oh my"! Exclaims Kasumi. "Remind me never to get on your bad side". Remarks Mordin. "Excellent shot sir". Adds Garrus. Down in the town Axium and the others move up. Autumn gestures an Ok with her left hand as Axium and Greyson went around a corner. When behind her a door opened and an Obsidian pony steps out. He sees Autumn. But as Autumn turns to see what it was, she feels something zing past. Cutting off the tips of her side bangs.
The next thing she sees is a spray of blood. Has he been hit by a round and was killed. Not even having time to sound the alarm. Shot. By Albert he had saw the door opening through his scope. Autumn knowing that it was Albert she blows a kiss in his teams' direction. Before joining Axium and Greyson. Their sub-machine guns fitted with sound suppressors at the ready as they entered the Townhall. Axium raises his hand to stop his team. He had heard someone coming. And has they turned the corner Axium fired. Killing the Obsidian instantly. "Autumn check this floor; Greyson take the top floor. And I'll check the basement. If either of you find Tirek. Subdue not kill". Says Axium. On the opposite side of town Summer and the others were inside the infirmary. They had made it all the way to where the hostages were being held.
There were two Obsidians inside the room. One near the door, the other near the corner. The hostages in the middle. Summer neared the door and said. "Flash bang". And Sam pulls one from his belt. "Okay ready". He says. "Go in three. Two. One". Says Summer. Sam pulls the pin and through the broken pane of glass of the door's window throws the grenade. As it bounced on the floor, the two obsidians are curious. This strange thing was something new. So, standing by it they didn't know that this would be their end. But Sugar Coat and the other girls did. They moved over and covered the other hostages, most only young fillies and colts. The only two adults were Firelight and Stellar Flare. They told Tirek who their children were. So, he had kept them alive. There was a click from the object. And it exploded with a deafening loud bang and a blinding bright light.
Disorientating the two Obsidians the were slow to react when summer, Sam and Daniel burst in. They had their weapons ready. The three fire and kill the Obsidians. After they checked the rest of the floor Daniel and Sam returned to where the hostages were. "Ma'am the building is secured. Orders"? Says Sam. Summer turns to the other's and says. "Get these people ready to move out and to the transport. Friendship one will be waiting". She then turns to the group of hostages and said. "Don't be alarmed everyone. We're here to set you free and take you to the safety of her Majesty's Princess Twilight's castle in Ponyville". There was relief on their faces. Summer then gives Daniel her weapon she kneels down near the children. "Rose Petal, Rosebud your sister is safe in Ponyville. I saved her that night". A sky-blue Pegasus and an alabaster unicorn step forward. Slowly they look. On seeing Summers caring face and hearing her kind voice. The two runs to her and hug her crying.
"What about Aria"? Croaked a very ill Sonata. "She was taken to their commander early yesterday. And hasn't been brought back". Adds Sour Sweet. Summer says. "Daniel pick her up and carry her down to the transports. Sam go with him. I'll head up to townhall and the Colonel". The two salute and Daniel give Summer her weapon back. Positioning his weapon Daniel moves over to Sonata and crouches. And Sam helps Sonata on to his back. She wraps her arms around his neck, and he puts his arms to support her legs. And they head out. Summer dashes to the townhall. There she managed to catch up with the others just as they were splitting up. "Colonel one of the hostages is missing. She was brought to Tirek yesterday, she must still be here inside somewhere". She says. And both she and Axium head down to the basement.
Down there they hear sobbing. It was Aria she was crying because Tirek had said that she would stay there until he came back. But before he goes, he and his men were going to rape her friends. And after they was finished, and her friends were no longer any fun he was going to gut Sonata in front of her and their friends. She hears Summer and Axium coming. Believing that it was Tirek she cries out. "Please don't hurt Sonata please I beg you. Don't hurt my sister. Please". Yes, daydream they were sisters. Stepsisters. Same mother but different fathers. "BE QUIET YOU LITTLE WHORE OR I WILL SHUT YOU UP". Bellows the Obsidian Guard at the door. "Please". Cried Aria. "I TOLD YOU. NOW YOU WILL SHUT UP. COMMANDER TOLD ME I COULD DO WHAT EVER I LIKED TO YOU IF YOU DON'T DO AS YOU ARE TOLD". He shouts at her as he turns and unlocks the door. He laughs menacingly, unzips his trousers and pushes the door open. Takes to paces inside and then drops dead. The fear in Aria's eyes was evident when Axium appeared. He had shot the Obsidian dead. There in the cell he saw Aria trying her hardest to cower in the corner.
She was completely naked, Tirek stripped her to help break her spirit. Axium adverted his gaze and shouts. "SUMMER IN HERE QUICK". Summer ran in and sees Axium looking away she thought the worst. Then she hears Aria sob. Summer moves over to Aria. "Are you Aria"? She asks the sobbing girl chained and manacled to the floor. Aria was a complete state. She had been whipped, beaten. Her eyes were red swollen from the constant crying and from Tirek's fists. But he had also burnt her with cigarettes. And all she could do was nod. "Aria it'll be okay. You and your friends are safe now. He won't and can't hurt you anymore. We were sent by her Majesty Princess Twilight to free all the hostages". Says Summer as she kneels next to Aria. Taking of her rucksack she pulls out a foil blanket. And wraps it around Aria's naked body. Then she takes a set of lockpicks and unfastens the manacles and Aria grabs and hugs her. "Is Sonata. Is my sister still alive"? She asks sobbingly.
Summer smiled. "She is alive and safe too. So, let's reunite you two". She replies. Axium takes of his backpack and hands it to Summer. Then crouches next to Aria and gestures her to climb on his back. But Aria cowers away. "It's okay he won't hurt you. He's a big softy at heart. He's got a sister your age". Says Summer. And Aria still wouldn't go near him. "We haven't got time for this". Says Axium taking back his backpack. He grabs and picks up Aria and carries her out. Once in his arms she started to feel safe. They were followed by Summer. They had met up with the others and when Axium was next to Daniel Aria stuck out a hand and Sonata took to holding it. Albert and the others had moved down to the transports. When suddenly they hear gunshots, screaming and shouts. So, charging up the hill. When they got to the top, they saw the team, and the hostages pinned down. Trapped by two groups of Obsidians. Sam had been hit.
"Kasumi you stay here and cover us. Garrus go right, Mordin go left I'll take the middle". After they had joined the fight it had lasted ten minutes, and all the Obsidians had been killed. Killed? Garrus helped Sam and Daniel got the hostages moving again. The two little fillies had stayed by Summer they felt safer with her. She, Autumn, Axium and Mordin was bringing up the rear. "Kasumi get the transport started". Calls Albert has he heads towards Summer. Suddenly one of the Obsidians gets up and grabs Autumn. "Drop you weapons and keep still. Or I will kill this one. Once I have gotten away, I will let it go". He says. Albert raised his rifle and aimed. But he couldn't get a clear shot. But Autumn was ready to free herself. She had managed to pull her knife. Flipping it round she thrust it into the Obsidian. Feeling the intense pain and the sharpness of the blade he let her go. She darts over to Axium and Mordin. With the last of his strength the Obsidian pulls a Fragmentation grenade. Pulls the pin and tosses it. But it doesn't go far. It bounces on the ground near Rosebud and Rose petal. Summer jumps in front of them and covers them with her body.
Seeing Summer and the fillies in danger Albert drops his pack and rifle. "Don't worry Summer baby I've got your back". He calls out as he darts and dives on top of the grenade. BANG! It explodes. The two fillies scream and start to cry. "Bertie no. No, No, No Bertie no". cries Summer. And she rushes over to him. Rolling him on to his back. He had a serious chest and stomach wound. The fillies start to cry. "Girls don't look. Don't look". Says Summer. Axium gives Aria to Mordin and moves over to Albert. Pulling a field dressing from his pack he tried to treat Albert's wounds. But the look he gives Summer she knew Albert was dying. Suddenly Queen Twilight staggers forward. Caught by Autumn. "Your Majesty are you ill. Is there anything I can do"? Asks Autumn before she starts to shout. "HELP, HELP QUICKLY SOME PONY HELP THE QUEEN IS UNWELL". Not far from the courtyard Captain Peacewalker had heard Autumn's cries for help. Queen Twilight got up. And says to Autumn. "it is okay Autumn. It's just that I have probably been over doing it a bit for a Mare in this condition. And I'll be fine in another 11 months' time".
Autumn looks shocked but she had guessed. "You mean you are. You and his majesty are to have. That's the big announcement not the peace treaty". She says and Queen Twilight smiles and replies. "Yes, it is. But Autumn please could you keep it quiet until later". Autumn nods has Captain Peacewalker, and two other guards race up the corridor. "Your Majesty are you alright"? Asked the captain. "I'm quite fine captain just a dizzy spell. I think I have been over doing it a little. There's just so much to do. But thank you for your concern". Replied the queen. "I know you do not wish an escort, but I am not going to take a no for an answer. So, you two will follow her majesty close by but not to close give her Majesty and her Royal Highness Privacy". The two guards salute the captain and then they and the captain bow to the queen. Queen Twilight just nods. "Right then back to the story. Well back at my castle I was talking to Adagio. "Sunset tells me you made amends to the evil you did in the human world". I say but Adagio didn't answer. At first. "We try. But some humans can be cruel beyond words. Others can't forgive easily. But we were lucky in that we met Sunset and her friends. And the students at CHS as well as Principals Celestia, Cadence, vice principal Luna and Dean Shining Armour. After we were sent to crystal Prep. We saw how Cinch made every student compete. We felt bad. I do have to admit at first Aria, and I bullied Twilight. we thought she was you. But Sonata realised that we were mortal now. No magic and no more eternal life". She says.
I was about to ask do you regret your actions when you start to cry. Adagio curiosity piqued she asks. "A baby"? I smile and say. "Yes, a baby. Baby Daydream Sparkle. She's my daughter". And I gesture with my head and Adagio follows. On seeing you I see a tear form in her eye. "She's beautiful. And an Alicorn. But there hasn't been an Alicorn born in Equestria for more than one hundred thousand years. I remember my real mother telling us Sirens that at one time Alicorns were a powerful pony race. That dominated this world and others in vast empires. All other pony races including ours were mere slaves and serfs to do their bidding and cannon fodder for their wars. But then came two noble Alicorn Families. That had a grand army that was made up of Alicorns and other ponies and destroyed the others and freed the enslaved races in the galaxy. And after the war was over there were two children born both alicorns. Cosmos from the Darkness family. And Galaxia of the Lightrim family". She says. I say. "Daydream is the Third Alicorn born into my family. Flurry Heart and Skyla my brother's daughters are also alicorns.
She smiles and says. "You are very lucky Your majesty in having something so special in your beautiful daughter". I smile and was about to reply when my horn glows. It was telling me that Captain Tempest was calling from Friendship one. So, I pick you up and both myself and Adagio head to the map room. There we are joined by Twilight, Sunset and the girls. I zap the map with a beam of magic. And Tempest appeared. "Captain your report"? I ask. "Your Majesty the mission has been successful. In all hostages have been freed. Including Sunset and Twilights friends. As well as Lady Starlight's father and Sunburst's mother". Replied Tempest. The relief on the faces of Sunset, Twilight, Adagio and the girls was wonderful to see. But as I was about to say good job, when I could see that there was something else and it was bothering her. "Captain the teams safe". I ask. And Tempest bit her lip hard enough to make it bleed. "Forgive me your Majesty my thoughts were elsewhere". She paused for a moment.
"There have been several injuries. Ms Sonata and Aria have been beaten badly. But should make a full recovery. So too will Samuel. He was shot in the shoulder covering the withdraw. But". She says before stopping. "Hold on your Majesty for a moment". She says. Before shutting down the ship's viewer. On friendship one there was a flurry of activity on the med deck. As Bright Heart franticly tries to save Albert's life. She approaches Axium who was holding Summer trying to comfort her. She and Albert had been dating and had kept it quiet from the unit. And more importantly the precinct. This was due to the age gap between them. Albert was old enough to be her father. "Colonel I have stemmed the blood loss, but he may not have long left". Says Bright Heart. she then turns to Summer. "I am so sorry Ms Summer, but he needs more help than I can give him". She says. Just has Captain Tempest arrived. She looks at Axium. And he just shakes his head. "He's awake so would you like to see him". Says Bright Heart. And without hesitation Summer heads in.
Followed by Axium, Tempest and Bright Heart. Summer sits at the bedside. She holds his hand, and he opens his eyes. "Summer baby. Your safe thank goodness. I have thought about it and if it is what you want then I do it. So, bring them in so I can look upon them". he says. Summer gets up and darts from the room. Ten minutes later she returns with the two little fillies. "Albert. Albert. Wake up wake up. They are here". Says Summer. Albert opens his eyes. And smiles at them both. They cower behind Summer. "It's okay little ones I just want to talk". He says before coughing. They both look up at Summer. She smiles warmly and nods. They both step forward. "So, what is your name little one"? He asks. Hesitant the youngest says. "It's Rose Petal sir". He smiles and says. "What a pretty name for such a cute little girl. And you my dear". She steps forward. "I'm Rosebud". He smiles again. "Another pretty name for another pretty girl. Now I want to talk to you about my friend Summer". He says and waves Summer closer. She places a hand on the girls.
"So, do you think my friend is someone nice"? He asks. The two girls look at her and both nod their heads. "She saved our big sister Primrose. So yes, we think she's nice". Says Rosebud. Albert smiles and says. "I think she is nice too and kind and beautiful and loving". Then grimaces in pain. "But I know that she feels sad too. All the time. Can you guess why"? He continued. The girls look at Summer and say. "She doesn't look sad to us". Albert looks at her and she looks tearful. "She is sad. And it is because when she was a little girl. Just a little older than you. She fell quite ill. So very ill that her parents were scared that they would have to say goodbye before their time". He says. Rosebud said. "You mean like we did to our daddy"? Albert nods. "So, for a long time she wasn't allowed to go out have fun or play. Until she was completely better. And she did with the help of special medicine. But little did the doctors know that this medicine came with a very heavy price. And that was that it left her with a future full of misfortune and heartache". He says.
The two stares up at Summer and she stared back. They could now see the sadness that Summer hid in the back of her soul. "She was left unable to have children of her own. Never to know what it is like to have some hansom boy or beautiful little girl, like you two, say I love you mommy to her each and every day". He says. Then he strokes Rose Petals mane. He continued. "So, do you think she would be a good mother"? Rosebud looks and says. "Yes, I think she would". "So, do I little one. In fact, I think she would be a very wonderful mother. And so, If I had the power to, I would give back to her what she has lost. Even if it meant I would need to give up my life. But to me she would be worth it. After all she is my special some pony". Albert says. Summer was now kneeling next to them desperately trying not to cry. The two girls nuzzle her and say. "Please don't cry". Albert coughs again this time a little blood seeped out of his mouth. With a quick rub of a paper tissue the blood was gone. But Albert knew he didn't have long left.
"Girls I want to ask you a very important question". Says Albert. The girls move forward closer to Albert. They now had tears in their eyes. They had saw this creature save them by covering the nasty weapon the Obsidian used. "Ye. Yes. Yes sir". Reply both girls. "Would you think that you would like to have Summer has your new mommy"? Albert asks. The two fillies look at each other and then say. "You want to be our new mommy. But we need to speak about it with Primrose too". Summer just nods she can't speak. If she tries, she would start to cry. "Of because we do. But I only ask this because of". He says before ushering the two fillies closer. Then he whispers. "Soon I will have to leave my special some pony. Going on a journey she cannot travel with me. And so, she will be really sad. And I think that you are the perfect little ones who will be able to look after her when I am gone. So, before I go, I would like to say thank you for looking after Summer for me". Albert says.
He stretches out his arms for them both to have a hug. Not being able to see his face they do not notice the pain etched on his face. There was a short alarm burst on the monitor. Bright Heart looked. Axium Tempest and Summer wait to see. Bright Heart with a solemn look shakes her head. "Come along children I will show you the dining room. I bet you are hungry". Says Tempest who takes the children out Leaving Bright Heart, Axium and Summer in the room. After ten minutes she returned. Axium and Bright Heart were waiting outside the room. Suddenly Summer exits and drops to the ground her hands covering her face. And. "BERTIE NO". she screams loud with anguish. Albert was dead. Axium starts to sob. Bright Heart was now comforting Summer. After a few minute Axium had composed himself yet he still had tears in his eyes. He and Tempest, who side by side, who kisses his cheek. "I'm so sorry y friend". She says as they headed back to the bridge. On it was Autumn, Daniel, Greyson and Sam, Mordin, Garrus and Kasumi. Axium had moved closer to Autumn. Re-establishing communication with me. I ask. "Captain explain". But from her face I could see it was bad news. Adagio was worried too. She too had noticed and both Sunset and Twilight held her. "My apologies your Majesty. But there has been one fatality". Says Tempest. My face drops and the girls, Sunset, Twilight and Adagio's eyes begin to water they believed either Sonata or Aria had died. "But Specialist Albert Greene Died a few minutes ago". Tempest says tearfully.
And in the background, I see Autumn collapsing at the news being held by Axium who look physically distraught. Daniel had leaned, up the bulkhead and slid down it on hearing the news and held his head in his hands. Greyson never one to speak. Even now. Made a fist and proceeded to punch a display screen. With such force that he broke it. Samuel was hugging Kasumi, she had also broken down, Garrus and Mordin were in shock. "We will be arriving soon Your Majesty, Friendship one out". Says Tempests as she started to wipe tears from her eyes.
