Chapter Ten: Love and Loss

“Rafael I say again. This is Yellow Five, how copy?” Momo tried the radio once more, her equestrian accented voice faintly drifted over from the cockpit. I could barely hear her over the sound of the rushing rotary blades as they roared through the door to my left.

We were about five minutes away from the old airfield, Momo had been using the long range radio for some time now to try and contact the tower for our approach. So far nothing has come back as a response.

“Well shit fellas, nopony’s givin’ me so much as a ping!” Momo leaned over her seat and hollard back to us.

“Have you tried contacting the Hail Storm?” Silver yelled back, giving our concerned glances a shrug.

“This ain’t standard procedure boss, the feathered prick was pretty clear that all incoming Vertibucks contact the tower before entering their airspace. Fuckin’ feather freaks, I swear.” She paused. “No offense Midnight.” Momo cried over her shoulder, giving me a sheepish grin.

“None taken!” I ruffled my feathered wings and gave her a smile.

Momo turned around and messed with the nobs on her big ass radio, I could only assume she was changing frequency to contact the Hail Storm.

“Mates, you think Falcon’s on to us?” Scarlet piped up from my right, giving me a worried glance.

“Nah lassie, who’d have contacted him? This mission be so secretive, even the top commanders under the bloody bird weren’t a part of it.” Ballpoint answered calmly, he took another drag out of his cigarette, then flicked it out the door to his right.

I watched as the burning ember quickly fell down and behind us. We were far above the forest at this point, since nothing was trying to shoot us down, we opted to stay at higher altitudes.The moon had made it’s course all the way to it’s highest point, it was barely visible behind a dense layer of clouds that obscured the sky. The crew compartment was barely illuminated with its stone cold glow.

The clouds were full, maybe it was my pegasus genes telling me something or who knows, but I knew winter was around the corner. Though something felt different also, a thunderstorm maybe, but this late in the season?

“Hail Storm, this is ‘Reaper’ Five inbound to Rafael in two minutes, do you copy?” Momo relayed the message, letting go of the microphone button and waiting for the response to play over the speakers.

We were met by momentary fuzz, then a low wail that started to drone over the speakers,

“Reaper five? Good you contacted us first, this is the Chief Comms Officer speaking, what is your current altitude, airspeed and heading?” A mare’s equestrian accented voice crackled over the speakers with urgency.

“Eight hundred meters, one hundred fifty five knots, sixty five degrees.” Momo reported professionally, then quickly clicked the send button again. “Is something wrong ma’am?”

“Increase altitude to eleven hundred, heading to ninety five and come on approach vector bravo when within visual range. Land aboard the Hail Storm immediately. Pad five.” the Comms Officer reported hastily. “General Breeze wishes to speak with all members aboard your aircraft. Do not approach Rafael by all means. I repeat. Do not approach Rafael. Out.” The speaker’s crackled and the droning wail cut off as we lost the signal.

“Well shit.”I heard Momo swear to herself, as she yanked the flight stick sharply left and pushed the throttle forward.

The Veritbuck made a steep bank to the right and I felt myself get pushed into my seat as we increased altitude. I poked my head out the door and saw we were entering the thick of clouds.

“That doesn’t sound too good.” I frowned to my friends in the compartment with me.

“Aye.” All three of them responded solemnly.

I rolled my eyes and shrugged. Braytish ponies, are all of them so blunt?

The overhead speakers crackled to life once more and Momo’s voice rang out clearly,

“Alright everypony, I bet you guys heard that, I’m just as confused as you.” She shrugged, not looking back. “We’ll be rising above the clouds in about ten seconds.” She informed us.

I looked out the door to my left again, and felt Scarlet rest her head on my shoulder. Air begin to buffet against my face and I heard even more fervent chopping coming from beyond our engines. Just as we cleared to layer of clouds, Scarlet let out a sharp gasp and sat up.

We were met with another Vertibuck flying in formation just merely a few hooves to our side. The sky was beautifully clear above the clouds with the sky blanketed with sparkling stars, the moon shone bright and blue, bathing the white sea below us with its light.

The vertibuck right outside the door to my left was identical in design to ours, though with smaller nose cannons. The nose was painted a dark blue, and a blue line followed from it’s tip to tail. A lewd image of a bat pony mare in a silky blue dress was drawn just under the cockpit, straddling a crescent moon. Her dress was just a bit too short, letting us see everything going on with that moon.

I could see the pilot confidently manning the controls, his helmet was similar to Momo’s but, of course, blue. His visor was up and I could see his golden eyes reflecting through the darkened cockpit glass. The crew compartment doors were sealed shut, and a pod was mounted on the side. Small cones jutted out of the pod. Missiles?

“Bloody hell that scared the moonlight out of me.” Scarlet whispered and flicked her head back around to the right door, I followed and saw another Vertibuck on that side as well. It sported similar colors and armament, though the painting under the cockpit was of a mare and a star instead of a moon. Straddling as well, of course, with all of her lovely lady bits showing.

“Yellow Five, this is Blue One and Two coming up on your flanks, we’ll guide you to approach vector Bravo.” A stallion’s voice rang over the overhead speakers.

“Copy that, Sergeant Longshot, lead the way.” Momo replied.

Both Vertibucks increased their throttles and I watched as blue fire shot out of the bottom of their engines, blasting my face with warm dry air. We took a reverse delta formation and followed them for a few minutes. Occasionally I saw a squadron of Vertibucks fly overhead or across from us, the place was buzzing with aircraft from the Hail Storm.

“Something big is happening… We’re not anywhere near Rafael at this point, it looks like everypony has been mobilized on the Hail storm.” Silver hollard over the chugging rotary blades.

“Bloody better be Falcon’s assassination!” Ballpoint scoffed and smiled. I chuckled at his antics and shifted my gaze out the door to my left once more, just in time to catch the Hail Storm and all her glory as we came out of a steep bank.

The unbelievable beast of a cloudship flew confidently above the blanket of clouds. Lightning flashed across her hull and the enormous engines were roaring with power, a dark angry cloud hovered between her bow and stern, pushing the ship forward through the freezing cold sky. The storm cloud was being generated by the ship itself, and was, thankfully, situated underneath the ship. No fried ponies aboard this Vertibuck tonight!

Both escorting Vertibucks broke off and flew back to what I guessed was their original patrol pattern. And we were alone as we flew closer and closer to the Hail Storm.

“Blue squadron is in charge of local protection and defence of the cloudship.” Momo piped up from the speakers, I guess she felt like giving us some insight. “Yellow, my squadron, is in charge of insertion and extraction on expeditionary missions, hence the expeditionary squadron. Our birds are more equipped for ground pounding and air support roles.” She confidently continued. I could almost hear her smirking.

The massive vessel soon engulfed my entire view, and I could see the thick, albeit rusty, armour plating that encased its hull.

“Finally there’s Red Squadron, they’re the cocky bastards who fly assault missions, their Vertibucks have been re-outfitted with more weapons and less cargo space, they’re the go-to ponies if there’s a target that needs to be eliminated without discrimination.” Momo let out a small chuckle. “They ain’t got any thirty-seven’s on their birds though, eh Scarlet?”

Scarlet giggled and gave me a knowing smile, of course. These mare’s and their giant cannons.

As we flew around the hull of the Hail Storm I finally got a good look of the ship, her sides were pock-marked with scorches and dents, the armour had spots of rust and chips missing. It clearly had seen better days, but still carried strength and formidability with it. The various deck’s were illuminated from the inside, but the polarized glass stopped me from seeing anything that was going on.

The thunderstorm that raged beneath her hull was brimming with power, the cloud generator propellers were completely obscured by black angry clouds, lightning flashed and connected to various lightning rods located around the cloud generators. No water was pouring though, makes sense, since the clouds didn’t have anywhere to collect it. I wondered if the ship ever flew over open water.

Momo took a sharp bank towards the ship we all jumped in surprise, I was sure we’d slam into the damn thing! But just as we were about to hit it, I saw the hangar doors slide past my vision as we entered the internal hangar bay. The rotary engines pitched backward steeply and Momo punched the throttle, slowing us down tremendously. She then lazily flew the Vertibuck over to the landing pad.

Scarlet had been clinging on to me for dear life, flying was fine, but when you have a crazy teenaged mare in control? Shit gets real.

I peeked down below us as we approached the landing pad, small ponies hurriedly rushed around the ancient hangar bay, pulling metal carts of ammunition or fuel, their brightly colored vests reflected the bright overhead lights.

Momo flicked the tail of the Vertibuck around and we all clung onto the seats once more. She snapped the aircraft steady and gently set down onto the pad. We all let out a sigh of relief when the landing gear made contact finally. Momo quickly flipped a bunch of switches and the engine’s slowly spooled down, the rotary blades come to a slow stop, finally jerking still as internal brakes grabbed them and held them in place.

“Thank you for flying aboard Reaper airlines everypony! To your left is the complimentary fuel line, and we have ammunition storage available for those of you with special needs! We hope you enjoyed your flight and are happy to see you soon!” Momo nonchalantly spoke as she climbed out of the cockpit and into the crew compartment, taking off her helmet and shaking her mane.

“Very funny, you pulled those tight maneuvers on purpose huh?” Silver rolled his eyes as Momo laughed and nodded.

We all disembarked and readjusted ourselves. I stretched my legs and wings, letting out a huge yawn.

“Middy, when was the last time we got a full day’s sleep?” Scarlet moaned and blinked to try and clear her eyes, I reached a hoof forward and brushed her mane from her face.

“Probably two nights ago, what with all this stuff that’s been going on back to back.” I sighed. It was about time we all got some rest. “After we report to Breeze, I’m demanding we get a room and get some real sleep.”

“Aye, let’s get this over with. Momo, lead the way love?” Ballpoint stretched and gestured to the young mare.

“Aw you guys are a bunch of lightweights, I’ve had to stay up seventy two hours this one time, had to fly four sorties in and out of base.” She stuck her tongue out to Ballpoint, who did the same back, eliciting a slight giggle from her.

We all began following Momo as she trotted off towards the opposite end of the hangar bay, she tossed her helmet over her back and gave a nod to a group of ponies rushing to her vehicle. They saluted Silver and Ballpoint and quickly began refueling and maintaining the aircraft.

When we reached the far wall, Momo pushed the metal door open and we all clambered into a tight hallway that lead toward the bow of the Hail Storm. We passed door after door, each leading to adjacent corridors and rooms. Most of the doors were closed, but of the one’s that were open, I saw they were dark, filled with old arcane electronics, occasionally the odd pony or two working on some component was spotted.

We came across a larger door at the end of the hallway and it slid open automatically, the noise reminded me oh too fondly of the doors we had back in Stable 17. The word “Battery” was written in white letters over the door. We all entered, staring with wide eyes at the display.

Inside, sat an enormous room. Not as wide as the hangar bay, but about as tall and long. A pair of elevators on either side slid up and down as platforms on rails. Three floors were clearly marked with catwalks, each pathway made a ring around the bottom floor. Along the length of the bottom floor, six unbelievably huge cannons were lined up, three on either side. The room was considerably colder than the rest of the ship, and my breath formed in front of my muzzle.

The massive cannons were all facing down at a forty five degree angle out into the open frozen air. Massive canisters were stacked neatly next to each gun, a sled and conveyor belt system lead to the back of each gun, maybe some way to load ammunition? Each cannon was pulsing with power, the lengths of their barrels were glowing with green lights.

“Dragon Slayer’s.” Momo explained over her shoulder. We took the catwalk on the right side, walking over three of the doomsday weapons.

“Luna’s moon…” Scarlet whispered as she studied the guns.

We continued to follow Momo across the huge room, her two toned tail gently bobbed as she trotted merrily across the catwalk.

“During the war, the GPE was under constant attack by dragons, I dunno the exact history, but I’m pretty sure they were working with the zebras. Today, these badass babies are used to blast anything out of the sky, especially those prissy alicorns!” She explained excitedly.

“Used to, remember, those alicorns aren’t harmful anymore?” SIlver chided her.

Momo flicked her mane and snorted,

“Like hell if I trust them though. If any come too close, we’ll light em’ up. They’ve taken down fuckin’ Raptors Captain. Just three little ponies. Raptors. Hundreds of ponies killed, Unbelievable.” Momo scoffed, and fell silent.

Silver nudged Ballpoint and nodded, Ballpoint gave him a cross look and shook his head. Silver then rolled his eyes and gestured to Momo silently fuming ahead of us. Ballpoint’s eyes widened and he nodded, cantering up next to her and quietly began speaking to her.

“Electron charge packs!” Scarlet nearly screamed into my ear, causing me to flinch and flatten my ears.

“What?! Where? Is it dangerous?!” I panicked and looked around me, coming to a stop with her.

“No, no, no silly! I figured it out! Look!” She pushed my face over the railing and pointed to the giant red and silver canisters far below. Momo didn’t stop and just kept walking down to the end of the catwalk with Ballpoint, I saw Silver shrug and follow them.

“The giant Cram cans?” I asked, peering closely at them.

“Yes! I mean, no. They’re not bloody filled with Cram Middy! They’re giant ECPs!” She beamed at me.

“What?”

“Electron Charge Packs?”

“Huh?”

“The ammunition that laser weapons take?” She stood up and shook my shoulders.

“Nope.” I shrugged.

Scarlet moaned and jumped down to all fours. “They managed to take the design of simple ammunition and make a giant, single-shot, cell out of them!” She pointed to the giant cans with excitement.

“Neat.” I blinked.

“Neat? That’s it?!” She shrieked and jumped in place. “This is bloody brilliant engineering! Pegasi were able to create this without the use of magic, could you imagine making something like that with just your bare hooves? Huh?” She poked my nose, causing me to smile.

“Sure I can imagine, I mean, they did it with their hooves right?” I replied knowingly.

“Exactl- Wait no! No you can’t imagine that Middy!” She let out an exasperated moan and cantered to Silver who was now waiting at the door to the next hallway for us.

I gave a sly grin and followed, she was so easy to play. Silver punched my shoulder with a hoof as I passed him, smiling himself. We cantered to catch up to the other two, who were waiting at the end of this hallway. Two black armored robots stood guarding a large heavy-set door, they had glowing green weapons on either side of their flanks, it kinda reminded me of Penny’s pistol. The word “Bridge” was written atop the door. As we approached them I heard Momo speaking to one of the robots.

“We’ve been ordered to report to General Breeze.” She reported with a salute.

“Why’re you saluting a robot?” I quickly asked without much thought.

Both of the robot ponies looked at me through their yellow eyes, and I heard the right one begin to chuckle. He motioned to the left one and they both began laughing through modulated speakers.

I felt my cheeks and ears grow hot as I nervously started laughing with them. The right robot reached up and took off it’s head. Nope, nevermind, helmet. I’m stupid.

“We’re wearing power armor mate, ever seen it?” The bat pony stallion smirked.

“Y-yeah.” I nodded and shut up. Of course, just like the Steel Rangers.

“Master Sergeant, permission to enter the Bridge is granted. General Breeze has an important notice for you. She’ll get you up to speed on the current situation.” The left stallion nodded, and punched a button behind him, opening up the Bridge door.

We all trotted into the bridge, and were greeted with a massive expanse of windows dominating the room. The entire wall across from us was curved and made entirely of transparent glass, you could see in front, to the sides and below the ship. Various ponies dressed in uniform were trotting across the glass floor to command stations and terminals. We were standing atop a raised platform, with the rest of the bridge being down below, two curved staircases on either side lead to the lower level.

General Breeze and Penny were standing next to each other, talking quietly. Their backs were to us as we all trotted up behind them, coming to a stop.

Silver let out a slight cough to get their attention. Both mares quickly turned around, and Penny let out a gasp, and galloped over to us smiling.

“Ye all made it!” She excitedly exclaimed.

“Well it wasn’t that hard of a mission, I mean, there was a necromancer, and alicorns, and ghosts, and then we killed the wrong guy! But then als-” I began to explain, but stopped when Silver blocked my mouth with his hoof. I swear, for being in front of his General, that was far from professional.

“I’m glad to see you Penny” He Smiled. Penny was more or less shocked by what I said, but gave him a small smile in return.

“It is good to see all of you safely aboard the ship.” General Breeze spoke as she trotted up to us. “Had you gone to Rafael, I’m not sure what would have become of you.” She frowned.

“Ma’am, if I may ask, what’s going on down there?” Momo spoke up quickly, gesturing to the clouds below the windows. “They wouldn’t reply to our transmission.”

“Something not good, Moon Glider.” Breeze shook her head solemnly and turned around, “Follow me everypony, please, I wish to know what happened on your mission.” She began trotting towards a single room located to the left of the bridge.

We all followed close behind and piled into what I assumed was her office. It only held the absolute basics, a desk, two chairs and a terminal whirring softly. The only totem of personality in the room was a small faded picture in a frame. From my angle, I could barely make out General Breeze smiling brightly next to a young pegasus stallion, they were both dressed in traditional equestrian wedding attire. I didn’t recognize where they were though, not Transylvania that’s for sure. Above the clouds maybe?

I let Scarlet take one of the chairs, she gave me a cute smile and I stood behind her feeling like a gentlecolt. Silver hopped in the other without a second thought, eliciting a roll of eyes from Momo and Penny.

Silver got right to the point and placed his hooves on the desk and began speaking, recalling everything that had happened. He went on for a while, pausing to let Breeze ask questions. He included everything: Rafael, the accidental killing of the Paladins, the Necromancer, the Alicorns, Ignis, Lupus, me, Scarlet… the accidental assassination…

I let out a yawn and blinked rapidly. I was utterly exhausted, my eyes began to close more and more frequently, and I started teetering as I stood. I gently rest my head on Scarlet’s as I let my eyes rest for just a second… I heard the muffled laughter of Ballpoint, then Silver sighing and asking a question. I felt somepony pushing my flanks and I briefly began to follow their lead, my senses failrf to remember anything beyond entering a room and falling onto a bed… My last sensation before falling deeply asleep, was gentle puffs of air against my chest...

oooOOO<><><>OOOooo

Betrayal. A mare’s voice whispered.

“Bloody what? Who’s there?!” I hollard, turning around in place.

I whipped my head around, but couldn’t see a thing. I’ve always been able to see in the dark, yet there I stood without the slightest idea of what was around me. I felt my heart start to race as my old paranoia of the dark returned.

Around me, the echo’s of that mare’s voice continued to play, then suddenly the sound of a foal crying faded in and out of existence. I blinked rapidly, trying desperately to see, to understand what was going on. I felt freezing air rush against my fur, the cawing of seagulls and lapping of water. I felt my stomach begin to churn, then settle immediately.

I spread my wings and flapped as hard as I could, trying to get away from it all, trying desperately to escape this bizarre world.

“Scarlet!” Midnight’s voice rang out in the distance, automatic gunfire echoed behind him. And explosion ripped through the air. Without any second notice, it vanished.

Angel of Blood, we summon thy presence. We pray that thee may be our key, for we are the lock. Split the cloth that veils our worlds. Shatter the shackles in which they are bound. Help us deliver ourselves from evil, so that we may be cleansed. A prayer chanted by many ponies softly sang far behind me.

I forced my eyes closed and screamed as loud as I could, but nothing came out. Not even air, I couldn’t breath at all! My wings suddenly froze in place. The darkness around me fell silent, not a thing to be heard.

Suddenly I heard the hammer of a pistol locking into place, it was with absolute crystal clarity. A familiar wicked laughter; somepony I had put on the back of my mind for days now. Somepony I had forced myself to forget.

Take caution Angel. Ignis’ voice shattered the sounds of Stable 17’s execution.

“What? Where are you I can’t see you!” I cried out, my voice’s function returning. Even though I had just flown upward, I was once more on solid ground.

Betrayal. The mare’s voice echoed once more. A rush of wind and the crackling of fire enveloped my sense of hearing. Soft paw pats approached me, stopping mere inches away from my muzzle.

Nova moves, she knows not what she is doing. Angel, you must find her. Prevent her from what might become, help her, speak with her, end her. Whatever the means. Eclipse had spoken with her, she share’s your blood and falsely lead him right to her instead of you. Ignis hastily spoke.

“Nova… Goddesses I… what she’s done… I- I- I can’t go back there.” I began shivering, memories of her executing Midnight’s family, my mother, even nearly myself. It all came flooding back with full force. I felt cold and numb, like ice seeping its way through my body.

Scarlet! Steel your willpower! You’re blocking it out, you’re pushing this vision away! Ignis barked loudly, though his voice was becoming softer and softer.

… You must take heed… Ignis’ voice melted into silence. A silence that once more consumed me.

Suddenly I woke up, I was in our house, in the family room to be most specific. I shook my head and stood up, I must’ve fallen asleep, I took a look around me. The room was fairly simple, with old oaken furnishings, a dusty worn rug on the floor. The sunset was just peeking through the slatted window behind me. To my right was our office desk, picture frames of our family adorned it. I smiled remembering when Midnight found that camera one of the traders was offering, he bought it without a second thought, taking any picture of us he could.

I suddenly did a double take, the pictures were blank. I just couldn’t recall what they were of. I shook my head and tried desperately to remember, I felt my heart quicken in panic as I couldn’t remember anything, not yesterday, last week, not for the last tens of years. I couldn’t remember my life, no, our life. The only thing I could recall, was Midnight.

I galloped to the door and kicked it open with my forehooves, rushing into the kitchen. I frantically scanned the house for Midnight, for our… for what… who? I felt tears well in my eyes, I couldn’t remember the names of my own family.

The world shattered like a glass. I blinked my eyes rapidly staring into the dark, the memory of what had just transpired began fading. I knew I was blocking it out, I knew I needed to try and focus, try and remember. But I couldn’t, I didn’t want to. I wanted to forget.

Destiny. The whispering mare’s voice echoed once more in my head.

oooOOO<><><>OOOooo

I stretched and slowly blinked my eyes, trying to focus on the dark room I was in. The metal ceiling was plain and cold, the walls were not much better, only the faintest moonlight poured in from a small window to my left. I couldn’t really tell what time it was, but I felt much better than before I had gone to sleep. I lifted my pipbuck up to my face and lazily tapped a button with my nose. The blue screen flared to life, blinding me with the time.

8:36PM

So we had slept through the rest of the night and through the day huh? Bloody right, I needed that. I smiled with content.

I tried to remember what the hay I was dreaming about, I had this sensation of importance surrounding it, but I couldn’t recall it for the life of me. I dropped my foreleg with a sigh and hit Midnight right in the face with the metal computer.

“Gah, ugh wha...?” He sputtered and flickered his eyes open, rubbing his nose with a foreleg. “What’s going on, where are we?” He shifted his gaze to me and cocked an eyebrow tiredly.

I leaned over and cuddled closer against his chest, wrapping myself into a hug. I raised my head up and planted a gentle kiss against his lips, soon parting from him with a sheepish smile. “Sorry Middy, I forgot you were right next to me.”

“Oh, it’s alright. Didn’t even hurt.” he smiled softly and laid his head back down against the pillow. He let out a content sigh, closing his eyes once more. I continued to lay down atop of him and let my own close as well, taking in a few minutes to be lazy and warm. I felt that our clothes weren't on and we had miraculously found a way to get underneath the bedsheets, to be honest I was impressed, we were senselessly tired the night before.

A thought came to mind and I gave a devilish grin. I checked to make sure Midnight’s eyes were still closed; he didn’t suspect a thing. I slowly trailed my hoof down his side and found exactly where I was looking for. Without warning I started rubbing and Midnight shot his eyes open, eliciting a choking laugh.

I continued to increase my tickling against his side as he desperately tried to struggle me off of him. I let out a giggle and climbed atop of him, pinning him to the bed as I continued to tickle him without mercy. Tears began welling in his eyes as he tried desperately to stifle his laughs. I felt him hook a foreleg underneath me and quickly turn us over. He was way stronger than I was, and I really wasn’t expecting to last long against him. Before I knew it, I was the one pinned to the bed and he was the one atop of me.

We lay there for a brief moment, breathing hard, Midnight’s pants grew slower as a smile grew across his face.

“Damn Scar, I can’t leave my guard down for a second around you huh?” He chuckled as he pressed his forehead against mine, catching the remainder of his breath.

I sat there completely vulnerable underneath him, staring into his handsome golden eyes. For a moment I forgot about our shenanigans and I felt a warm sensation brew in my chest. I leaned forward and planted a much deeper kiss on his lips, I felt him melt into me as our kisses grew more and more passionate. I began to subconsciously move against him and spread my hind legs a little wider, silently begging for more.

I quickly broke the kiss and freed myself from his gentle hold. I grabbed him by his neck and whispered into his ear.

“Now that my guard’s down, what will you do to me?” I asked vivaciously, and continued to let myself rub against him.

I met his eyes again and tried my best to give him the most sexy bedroom eyes I could muster. I gave him a quick wink and we quickly met once more for a passionate kiss...

<><><>

“Ah here be the lovebirds!” Ballpoint announced as Midnight and I exited the room, bumping hips together. We had just finished a few rounds of our… playtime… and had finished putting all of our clothes back on, save for our weapons and saddlebags. Midnight was busy preening his feathers back into place, he probably didn’t even hear Ballpoint. I rolled my eyes at the sarcastic remark and finally got a good look at what was around us.

Just outside of our bedroom, a common area was set up, more like a suite of sorts. There were two other doors on either wall to my left and right, most likely leading to other bedrooms. A larger door on the wall in front of me probably lead to the rest of the Hail Storm.

In the middle of the room, a simple dining table was set up with six cushioned chairs, a large worn couch was shoved against one of the walls, and a compact kitchenette was located in the corner. The couch had a few upheaved blankets strewn across it and I assumed somepony used it for a bed. What got my attention, however, was the assortment of ‘Fancy Ladd’ snack cakes on a plate sitting upon the dining table!

I excitedly rushed forward and grabbed a yellow one, pulling up a chair and diving into the lemon-y goodness! Midnight sat down on a chair next to me and I offered him a bite, licking my lips clean and smiling. He scrunched his nose and shook his head, going for a box of ‘Apple Sugar Megaspells’. Seriously who the hell thought to name a cereal brand after a weapon of mass destruction? That’s just bloody awful.

Ballpoint was sitting across from Midnight and Momo was busy cooking something at the kitchenette, whatever she was cooking was sizzling on a frying pan and smelled completely foreign to me. Silver and Penumbra were nowhere to be found.

“So…” Ballpoint winked. “From all of Scarlet’s noise, I would assume ye two had a bit of fun this evening?” He grinned raising his eyebrows.

I was mid bite through my second lemon snack cake, I felt my face start burning up and I slowly finished chewing and swallowed nervously.

Lunadammit, I didn’t intentionally make so much noise! It just felt so good…. I thought as I met Midnight’s equally embarrassed face and continued to eat my snack cake silently. Avoiding any eye contact with Ballpoint. Blast that colt.

“Aw give it a rest will ya? It ain’t like you and I were saints in the bedroom either.” Momo grazed her side against Ballpoint as she trotted up to the table.

Now it was Ballpoint’s turn to grow red with embarrassment. Ha! Take that ya bloody bully!

“Ye weren’t supposed to tell anypony!” He groaned burying his face in his forelegs.

“Why’s that? Trying to keep me a secret? Gee, you sure know how to make a mare feel like a lady.“ Momo rolled her eyes, then paused. “Actually, you really do...” She finished with a sly wink, and kissed Ballpoint’s flaming red cheek before going back to the stove.

“B- but It’s fraternization! We could get in some serious trouble if anypony found out! Especially the Captain!” Ballpoint turned around and hollered right at Silver as he walked through the door.

“Duly noted, thank you Lieutenant.” He dead panned, and trotted into the room, followed by Penumbra.

“Luna’s flaming twat! Is the whole bloody universe against me now?!” Ballpoint cried out and face planted himself onto the table, defeated.

“What’ve you got cooking there Momo?” Silver ignored his outburst, and sniffed the air.

“Oh! Just some bloatsprite, we’ve got a good stock of em’ frozen in storage.” Momo nervously answered. “And the Enclave used to say this shit is ‘contaminated’ ha, my ass. This stuff is great!” She chuckled and rubbed her foreleg against the other.

“Look lass, we aren’t gonna turn ye in, ye can calm down now.” Penny smiled and joined us at the table. Not without stealing a glance between me and Midnight though. I scooted closer to him and made sure our sides were touching.

“Oh.” Momo let out a sigh of relief, then cocked her head in confusion. “I hope I’m not jinxing myself here, but why’s that?”

Penny smiled, then reached back into her saddlebags. She pulled out a document and hoofed it over to Momo. Momo quickly read it over and flipped it, checking the back. She furrowed her eyebrows and stared wide eyed between Penny and Silver.

“D- discharge papers?” She sat down and pushed a bit of her mane out of her eyes worriedly. “Why am I getting discharged?”

“From Rafael at least.” Silver spoke up as he took a seat across from me and began picking through what was left of the snack cakes. I had already ate four… The guilt was harder to deal with than you’d think, alright?

“What do ye mean?” Ballpoint finally sat up, and asked.

“Yesternight when you guys went to sleep, Penny and I sat and had a long discussion with General Breeze. Apparently she was already onto Falcon like Ignis predicted. However, she took matters into her own hooves when she discovered that all of the Hail Storm’s former refugees were either evicted or killed.” Dusk explained, picking a red snack cake. Good choice, they’re cherry.

I caught my breath and nervously looked to Penny, she nodded and continued for Silver.

“We’re not entirely sure who did it, but Rafael cut contact about two hours after ye left. Soon after, we had reports of gunfire happening throughout the refugee camp located in the hangars along the airfield. We attempted to send a squadron to assist the poor ponies, but they were intercepted by Rafael Guards and sent back.” Penny furrowed her eyebrows. “Somepony ordered all the refugees to leave, or risk ending up like the ponies who got shot. We couldn’t risk attacking Rafael with too many civilians scattering across the airfield in flee.” She sighed.

“Why didn’t you help any of the refugees escape?” Midnight quickly asked.

“We tried, but our hooves were tied. Rafael has air defenses suitable to take down a well armoured Raptor. And with the current state of the Hail Storm, we would wind up risking more lives with collateral than saving them.” Penny leaned back and frowned. “We saved as many as we could before General Breeze gave the order for a full evacuation. I can only hope those poor souls find a way of life out there.” She concluded solemnly. Silver frowned and gave her a nudge.

Momo trotted over with a plate of steaming… something… and took a seat next to Ballpoint placing the plate on the table.

“So what’s the plan now then? What about Falcon?” She asked, as she reached for a bite of the mystery food.

“Falcon was declared AWOL just after the attacks. He made every air defense system operational and pointed it right at us. We had to leave with our tails between our legs.” Silver explained, between bites of his breakfast. “Right now however? Everypony aboard the Hail Storm has been officially discharged from Rafael command and placed under Renaissance's. We’re currently docked about half a kilometer west of Renaissance, and I’m going to report to the wing staff there.”

“So who do I report to then?” Momo asked quietly, taking it all in.

“You’re looking at him.” Silver smiled brightly. “We’re not going to turn you two in because it's not fraternization anymore.” he paused and reached into his saddlebags, grabbing a pair of silver metal rose insignia. He slid them over to Momo who sat staring at them with wide eyes. “Congratulations Lieutenant, effective immediately, you’ve been promoted.” Silver grinned excitedly.

“B-but, I don't know how to lead ponies…” Momo stuttered, meeting Silver with concerned eyes.

“You're not going to have to. With the position you’re given, the rank came with the job.” Silver explained. “General Breeze has assigned you to join my squadron. Welcome aboard Distant Horizons.” Silver puffed out his chest in pride.

“Squadron?” Ballpoint snorted, and elbowed Momo, who limply swayed with each push, utterly shocked. “More like duo, eh Captain? Let’s face it, it’s always been ye and I, even with Aurora an’the others. We’ve always been doing our own.” He chuckled.

Silver rolled his eyes, “Well… Yes, but now we can rightfully call ourselves a squadron.” He gestured toward me and Midnight. “General Breeze has also declared you two are honorary members, so welcome aboard!” He clapped his hooves together powerfully and smiled brightly. This stallion was just having a field day with us huh?

“Does that mean I get a rank too?!” Midnight exclaimed, jumping out of his chair and placing both forehooves on the table.

“No.” SIlver deadpanned.

“Damn.”

“Wait, Silver,” Ballpoint piped up over Midnight’s defeat. “So ye got us a full crew. That’s great and all, but that mean’s ye got something planned for us then eh?”

“That’s right mate, we’ve got ourselves another mission. A pretty damn simple one at that.” He sighed. “Stop the Black Daylight, with everything we’ve got.”

“Descriptive,” Ballpoint grimaced, then pointed a hoof at Silver, “So how’re we gonna convince Renaissance to join the fight?”

“That, laddie”, Penny spoke up. “Will be pretty easy, we have more than enough evidence that Falcon went AWOL, and the Black Daylight have become an even more significant threat. We’ll easily convince them that Rafael is no longer capable of leading the fight, and Renaissance needs to step forward..” She smiled confidently. As much as I didn’t like her, I had to admit she had grown a lot. Maybe being reunited with her old Enclave friends had helped boost her confidence.

“Right mates, so for the next day or so I’m going to try and explain this all to Colonel Sterling. I know he probably would do anything to leave Renaissance out of conflict, but with Rafael in shambles, we’re the next best settlement to lead an offensive on this side of Transylvania.” Silver explained.

”Aren’t there any other settlements nearby that could lend a hoof?” I asked, tilting my head in an effort to understand Transylvania’s alliances.

“Well, yes and no. You see, Renaissance and Rafael are only a few kilometers apart from each other. But since we’re basically hugging the western mountain range, we’re the only settlements for a long way from any of the others.” Silver tapped his hoof on the table trying to think of a way to explain. “Basically, the ponies who live in Renaissance and Rafael are descendents from those who survived in Vanhoover, more so than native Transylvanians. The settlements in Transylvania are far and few enough anyway.” He shrugged.

“Actually,” Ballpoint pointed to me and Midnight.”Ye two are more Transylvanian than we are.” he chuckled.

I guess that makes sense, Transylvania’s native population was so bloody small, they fit nearly all of us in Stable 17 with room to spare. Guess that explains why Transylvania is so spread out, mostly just ancient farmland out here. I reasoned internally.

“Eh, we’re all descendants from Braytain in the end, right?” Midnight offered.

“Hell no! You guys are more bat pony than me!” Momo exclaimed. “Manehattan, born and raised. Well, in the clouds above it anyway.” She smiled proudly.

“You’re still a Thestral, love, sorry to shatter your dreams.” Ballpoint shrugged.

“Well, I consider myself Equestrian!” She crossed her forelegs and huffed.

Silver shook his head and stood up, adjusting that black combat armor he always wore. “In short, to answer your question, no. There’s really no settlements with the military might to assist us. Thankfully with the help of the Hail Storm, if we find their headquarters, we stand a very good chance of bringing an end to the Black Daylight.” He explained. “I’m going to head groundside and get on with the negotiations. Scarlet, step outside with me for a second?” He gave me a nod.

I blinked my eyes in surprise, pointing my hoof at myself. Silver nodded, and I stood up, following him. We stepped through the doorway, and he closed it behind us, turning to face me. The hallway we were in was similar to the other one we used to get to the Bridge, with exposed rusted piping and metal grated floors.

“Sorry to spook you mate, I just have a question I was hoping you could help me with?” He nervously asked, flattening his dark red ears against his white mane.

Silver Dusk. The most strong headed, talented and disciplined pony I know. Needing help from me? Now this is bloody rich. I gave a fake smile to him, nodding.

“You see, ah, well you know how I feel about Penny?” He scratched his head, looking at everything but me.

Ohhh, so that’s what this is about. I sat down and gave him a genuine smile this time. “Yeah, what about her?” I asked, knowing the answer already.

“D-do you think I have any chance?” He asked with trepidation. “I mean, I know we’ve got much more important things to address. But, well, for the longest time… you know how it is.”

I thought about how Penumbra acted around him, and - ugh - how she acted around Midnight. Would Silver really have the ability to pull her interest away from Middy? Maybe, but not how he is acting now.

“No.” I answered shortly.

Silver’s features deflated, he gave me a slow nod frowning in defeat.

“But,” I lifted a hoof into the air, his ears perked up and he looked at me with a fledgling of hope. “You need to relax a bit mate, ease off on the ‘disciplined military buck’ act?” I mocked air quotes waving my hoof.

“Wha- what do you mean?” He asked with wide eyes.

“Well, you tend to be a bit stiff?” I explained, meeting his offended eyes, “No, no, I mean, it isn’t a bad thing! Just,” I sighed. “Ease up a bit, I’m sure she’ll notice it.”

“Ease up, eh?” Silver spoke to the floor. “Alright, I’ll try! Thanks so much Scarlet, I appreciate it.” He gave me a hopeful smile.

“No problem mate.” I shrugged.

“I’m going to head down then, I’ll give it some thought.” Silver turned around and began trotting towards what I was presume was the hangar. Suddenly a thought struck me.

“Silver!” I called out, he turned around and cocked his head to the side in question. “About a week ago, when we were on a contract to find you, you said you had an ex-wife, whatever happened?” I asked quickly, hoping I wasn’t intruding too much.

Silver’s expression darkened and he shook his head quickly. “She’s dead. Killed instantly by the rocket that collapsed the northern wall of our headquarters.” He turned around and didn’t look at me. “Forget about it okay?”

He began trotting away as I nodded slowly, even though I knew he didn’t see me. I sighed and opened the door back to our suite. I felt the hair on the back of my neck raise, something was off. My ears flicked as I heard steps approaching quickly from my left, opposite of the hangar that Silver had gone to. I turned around quickly, just in time to catch a powerful blow that connected with head. I blinked once, feeling myself slump over as darkness quickly flooded my vision.

***

“Scarlet!” I hollered and jumped to my hooves, knocking over the chair behind me. Penny, Ballpoint and Momo all jumped and looked around in panic, none of them had seen what I had. One moment she was standing in the doorway with a confused expression, the next she fell over unconscious and fucking disappeared into thin air!

I leapt up onto the table and over the other side, quickly crossing to the open door in a gallop. I heard the whoosh of something approaching and instinctively Spirit Walked a step behind me, reappearing in a flash of blue fire, just as something impacted the doorframe where I had been standing. For a moment the object fizzled in the air, and I could barely make out the shape of somepony. Whatever they tried to hit me with, sparked off of the metal door frame.

“What the bloody hell was that?” Ballpoint asked, he too stood up looking at me with a worried expression. I couldn’t see anypony! Whatever was there, was entirely invisible!

“Get back!” I yelled, galloping towards the three. I heard running steps behind me, not hoofsteps, but more like a clicking sound against the metal floor. I ducked down right as the steps were atop of me, something skimmed the ends of my mane, a few black and red hairs gently floated down over my wide eyes.

“Shite!” Ballpoint hollard and pushed Momo and Penny into his room, I stood back up and dove after him. Ballpoint slammed the door override switch on the wall and the door slid gently closed.

We all sat piled up in the bedroom panting lightly looking at each other with wide eyes. Ballpoint stood up quickly and trotted to the end of the bed where he kept his supplies, he dug through his saddlebags and came up with a tan colored pistol. He threw it over to me and I caught it in my hooves, he then drew an identical pistol and held it in his mouth with a nod.

“Whatever the hell is out there, they just fucking took Scarlet! We need to get her, now!” I hastily whispered.

“A-aye, but we can’t see them!” Penny stuttered, eyeing her pistol that was holstered on her right foreleg.

“Stealthbucks, they’ve gotta be using stealthbucks! I’ve heard of em’ before.” Momo whispered pointing to my pipbuck. “They were invented alongside the pipbuck, they pretty much make anypony who uses it invisible.” She frowned. “How the hay are we gonna find Scarlet if they’re invisible?”

I wracked my brain trying to think of how to do this.

Luna damn it! We don’t have enough time, whoever took Scarlet could be clear halfway across the ship by now! I shook my head and stood up, drawing the pistol in my mouth. I was gonna have to wing it, that’s what I always good at anyway.

I lifted up my left foreleg and selected the ‘options’ menu on my pipbuck, I remembered a few nights ago Scarlet had mentioned these blasted things had an ESF? FSE? Whatever, it showed where hostiles were in proximity to me, and that’s exactly what I needed.

I used my nose to scroll down the list frantically, finding an unchecked box next to “Eyes Forward Sparkle.” I selected the box and immediately a green line-compass winked into my peripheral vision. A red dot appeared in the direction of the door, and I could only assume that was our attacker.

I steeled my nerves, there wasn’t enough time to make any decisions, I had to act fast. I willed a Spirit Walk spell and faced the red dot, I imagined the room on the other side and stepped forward through the wall. As soon as I was on the other side, I was immediately forced back to the physical world.

I wasted no time and pushed with my legs and wings, shooting forward at full takeoff speed, diving just to the right of the red dot. I felt something impact my side and heard a voice grunt as we stumbled back against the table. I used my wings to stabilize myself and quickly turned around, aiming the pistol at where I assumed the attacker was lying.

I clamped down on the firing plate and an ear splitting gunshot rang into the metal room, causing me to immediately wince. I must’ve hit something, because the assailant let out a roar of pain and quickly flashed into existence before me. Electricity sparkled in the air as the stealthbuck bled off all of its remaining power, shutting off.

I leapt forward and pinned both of my forehooves on the shoulders of the attacker, slapping a combat knife out of his grip, and pressing the barrel against his head. I finally got a good look at him; A male Griffon, young, grey feathers and a brown coat. He wore a blue bandana across his beak, but what got me was his armor, the combat armor of the Black Daylight. I had managed to hit him on his hind leg, blood began to soak his combat armor.

I growled and pressed the barrel harder against his temple, forcing his head onto the steel floor. “Who er yer? Where es meh merfwend?” I spat around the firing bit.

“Huh?” The Griffon asked giving me an angered scowl.

“We have you covered laddie, spit it out so he can understand you.” Penny called out behind me, I nodded and spat out the pistol, making sure it was out of reach of the Griffon below me.

“Where is Scarlet?!” I nearly screamed pressing my hoof against his head this time.

“Fuck you.” The Griffon spat, he had a deep Braytish accent, Trottingham maybe?

I punched him hard across the face, forcing another grunt from him. “Why did you take her? Who are you? Where are you taking her?” I rapid fired questions punching him over and over again. Soon his face was covered in bruises, his eyes swollen and his blood coated my hooves.

“Fuck. You.” He spat a glob of blood onto my coat.

I hollard in rage and used both of my hooves to smash his skull harder into the ground. I must’ve overdone it because I felt something give way, a pool of blood quickly formed under the back of his head. The Griffon was either dead or unconscious, I didn’t care, I quickly Spirit Walked and bolted my way out the door.

Time froze when I was in the spirit world, if I could just figure out which way they went, I could track their souls and stop them! I panted heavily as I galloped across the icy cold floors, my nails clicked on the metal grates as I desperately turned corner after corner, searching for them. I ran headfirst into countless souls, all belonging to Thestrals, not my enemies. I picked up an odd sensation in my nose, something sweet and pale, Ponies didn’t smell like that, it had to be them. I quickly used that as my new lead and took off down the hallway.

The air was growing colder and colder as I struggled to maintain the spell, soon the bitter wind began to bite at my face, even my downy wolven fur wasn’t holding well against it. I felt fatigue began to seep into my muscles, but I forced myself to keep searching. I followed the scent down a familiar hallway and skidded to a halt outside the door of the “Battery”.

I couldn’t activate the switch while Spirit Walking, so I figured if I was going to appear physically, I may as well do it with Transcendence. I focused and quickly leapt through the metal door, flashing into existence with flame and smoke on the other side. I shook my head to clear my vision and searched around me desperately, then I spotted them.

Down below, next to the “Dragon Slayer” cannons, a group of Black Daylight dressed Griffons were galloping toward one of the gun’s open port holes. They all halted and turned around, I probably drew their attention with my display. They quickly recovered and took off, diving out into the open night air. I panicked and quickly dove over the railing in chase, flaring my wings and pumping them as hard as I ever had, trying to catch them.

I didn’t have time to think. Didn’t see the Griffon sentry aiming at me. I didn’t allow myself any room for error. And that was my mistake.

The Griffon pulled the trigger of his rifle and I felt something tear clean through my light combat barding. The front plate cracked and I felt my wings lock up, the air in my lungs was knocked out of me as a sledgehammer of force punch my ribs. I slid to a halt across the metal floor, struggling to gather my breath, my chest was searing with pain. I lay in agony as the last Griffon slung his rifle across his back and dove out the cannon port. I reached a hoof forward pitifully as I watched in horror as any hope for finding my beloved was taken away from me.

It had all happened so quickly, how did they know? How did nopony stop them? One moment we were enjoying breakfast together, the next, she was gone. Gone. I coughed and felt myself gag, vomiting a mouthful of blood onto the frozen floor. I had some serious internal bleeding; physical and emotional, I was heartbroken. Tears began to pour down my face, Scarlet was in serious danger, I had to move. I had to chase them. I felt my limbs grow cold and blackness start to creep on the edge of my vision.

I lay my head down on the metal floor, struggling to simply blink my eyes. I heard the muffled sounds of approaching hooves and barely felt as I was lifted up by a few ponies. Orders were barked and Hail Storm airponies began to spread out with weapons drawn. They didn’t know the Griffons had left already, nopony but me knew what had happened, where they had gone. I needed to tell them… I blinked heavily as blackness encompassed the entirety of my vision.

oooOOO***OOOooo

I closed my eyes and felt the fur on my face tingle as cool air blew across the hilltop. The familiar sensation drew a faint smile from my lips, I had sat up here many nights, under the same ancient oak overlooking the ancient and abandoned temples far below. The war had destroyed much of the past, hundreds of years before my birth.

I sighed and smelled the sweet autumn air, cool light shone beyond my eyelids, the twin moons had risen to their highest points by now. I gently let my eyes open, staring up at their brilliant glory.

Lupus was always most beautiful during the night, why do wolves always sleep through the best part of the day?

They don’t know what they’re missing. I reasoned with myself. When had we decided that lounging around during the day and lazily sleeping at night was an alternative? Since we’ve spoken with those ponies from Equestria long before me? I sighed and stood to all fours, turning around.

I stretched my forelegs before me, the graying spots on my once brilliant blue coat reminded me that these old joints had seen their fair share. I slowly straightened out and rolled my neck, paying my last respect to the oak tree that provided me with company these past years. The three torches behind me flickered dimly as their fuel began to run low, someday I would have to remember to bring more oil up here. I flicked my head and the torches extinguished with the faintest wisps of smoke. Satisfied, I began to trot down the winding dirt pathway.

I felt my paws touch the cold marble as I completed my journey down from the hilltop, I had spent nearly every last crown building this marble porch. The traders gawked at my request for so much marble, but dutifully complied when I showed them the money. Such a cost wasn’t built without reason however, as I passed underneath the an archway adorned with roses.

Through the arch, it lead to an overhang off of the remainder of the hill. This was no ordinary scenic overhang, but one built by my own blood, sweat, and tears. Centered on the overhang, surrounded by guardrails, sat a beautifully ornate tomb. Engravings of roses and thorned vines encompassed the outside, crafted painstakingly by myself.

I sat down before the tomb, in the same spot I had nearly every night for four years. I gently nudged my head forward and ignited the torches that sat upon the arch behind me, bathing the overhang in a warm, flickering glow. I gently rested my chin upon the stone top, feeling the icy marble seep beyond my fur. I closed my eyes and sighed, even after so many years, I began to feel tears well up in my eyes, gently dripping down my cheek.

“Happy anniversary.” I whispered, choking out a soft sob and feeling tightness swelling within my chest.

I placed my right paw on the lid of the tomb, maybe as a futile attempt to once more feel her warmth, see her beautiful deep maroon and white coat, her elegant golden eyes. I yearned to simply, once more, feel her gentle touch and embrace her on this day. Ten years ago, this very night, we had become partners for life. A simple wedding at that, but a night I cherished dearly above all else.

I coughed as I tried to suppress more tears and slowly sat up, rubbing my nose with a foreleg and trying to regain my composure. I leaned forward and gently kissed the marble top, sniffling as I payed my most heartfelt and sorrow filled respects.

“Midnight.” A male voice gently called out behind me.

I stood to all fours and straightened myself out, “Yes Apollo?” I asked, knowing the answer regardless.

“It’s time. we’re all ready.” Apollo spoke softly. I turned around and faced my dear friend.

Apollo stood tall and strong, much younger than I, his black and white coat was covered by his glistening steel armor, casting a thousand reflections from the flickering firelight to either side. His sword “Firefly” sat sheathed on his side, his backbag was fastened, ready to depart.

He and I had stood many years as foes, fighting against one another over false teachings, distractions, lies. It was not until my beloved, bless her soul, had brought us to realization that we were not enemies, but allies pitted against one another to take us away from our real threat. Years later, Apollo and I had become as close as brothers and had gathered the means necessary to fight against the Ripper.

“Where’s my gear?” I asked, trotting up to Apollo, leaving my memories behind me.

“They’ve got it sorted out and ready to go in the cartography room. I don’t know how she did it, but Sigma succeeded, she reforged your old sword! ‘Angel’ will service you once again!” He explained, growing in excitement as he pointed to the hallway that cut through the hill.

“I knew she could do it, she’s the best damn blacksmith I’ve ever seen. Wolves before the war probably couldn’t compare to her today.” I smiled faintly, thankful to have such a skilled ally. “Come on, let’s go. Let’s finish this once and for all. Then we can finally all rest.” I paused, a bigger smile creeping on my face. “And you can finally ask Stella to be your wife as well.” I winked at Apollo's growing embarrassment.

“Y-yeah, one thing at a time old-timer.” He shook his head and began trotting off towards the hallway.

I quickly faced the tomb once more and extinguished the torches with a spell, taking one last longing gaze at my deceased family. The smoke wisped away gently in the wind, climbing above the marble arch. I turned around and ran after Apollo who was waiting for me within the hillside. I was ready to take on the Ripper, ready to stop the murder, the destruction and agony. Ready to avenge my fallen wife, plunge my steel deep into the heart of the monstrosity and bring an end to a story much too long overdue.

The wind picked up behind me and split the smoke across the lettering engraved at the top of the stone arch, pooling off as it billowed into the brilliant night sky.

“Scarlet Rose. The Angel of Lupus.”

XXX

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Midnight Wind: Of two worlds:Because of your conecti