LordMorrowind

•The Crystal Castle, in the Chamber of the King• "**** it all, Yulan! I demand results! You will find the Keys, or I will find somepony who will!" The Banner-General stood calmly as a goblet of fine wine flew past his head, spilling bright red liquid across the floor. Pierrot, his King and commander, stood seething in front of his glorious throne. Yulan had never seen the powerful Alicorn in such a fury before; but he wasn't unsettled by the sight. He never was. All he could do for now was stand by and remain silent while his leader tried to regain his composure. His name was Yulan Stoneblood, born in the northern-most corner of the Crystal Empire and raised into the life of a soldier. Never had anyone seen the expression of 'fear' on his face...nor would they ever, not with his recent transformation. Officially, he served Pierrot...in reality, he served another. The only reason he had remained as a general here instead of retreating into exile as a few others did was because of orders by his true master. Pierrot was a pawn...no more; just like Sombra once was. Knowing that made Yulan capable of dealing with this new King's various actions. He said nothing as the Alicorn's breathing slowed and his face became cold as always; blank except for those smoldering blue eyes, which carried more sorrow and anger than Yulan had ever seen before. That...was slightly unnerving. He listened intently when the King spoke once again, his voice calm once more. "...I want the Keys found, Yulan. The Goliath must be found if my goals are to be reached. How go your...Seekers...in this search, Yulan?" The general put on an engaging smile that never reached his eyes, bowing respectfully to Pierrot with his head and gaze lowered. "...they do well, my King. We have Seekers placed in each of the Equestrian Factions, including some within the radical Forgotten Army. We receive reports coming in every day, although Freelancer and Salus Umbra still remain unpenetrated...which is of no surprise, especially on the later organization. Your father's former lap-dogs keep their organization exceptionally tight." Pierrot grimaced at mention of his father, but Yulan continued unperturbed. "As for the search on the Keys, we have some knowledge on two potential Keys, one in the possession of Twilight Sparkle, and the other...the other is within New Manehatten, in display at their Museum of Historical Artifacts; they are unaware of what they have in their possession. With the 7th and 9th Armies marching for the city, we will be able to kill two birds with one stone, so the saying goes. An excellent advancement in both the war campaign and the search for the Goliath." Pierrot nodded in comprehension, another goblet of wine at his side as if had appeared by magic; which it most likely had. With Yulan's explaination finished, Pierrot sat down in his throne and studied the crystal pony. Yulan had seen that same look in several others that had been above him; the study of somepony's worth, of how much they could offer. He cared little for it. After a few moments of silence, Pierrot spoke softly, as if he never had gotten infuriated in the first place. "Very well. Keep your recruitment going, and continue your search on the Keys. Once New Manehatten is secure, you can use it as the stage for your Equestrian operations. How fares the 'negotiations' with the Saddle Arabians? Have they accepted our terms?" Yulan shook his head, his face an unreadable mask. "I'm afraid not, my King. The Sultan is being troublesome; but the problem should be rectified soon enough." Pierrot understood the reference, and after a couple moments of contemplation, he gestured for Yulan to leave, not uttering a word. The crystal pony suppressed the scowl that tried to enter his expression before bowing, backing away and out of the room while speaking praises of the 'King'. Once through the gilded doors, he shook his head and began the long march to his favorite bar; he needed a drink, and at that moment washing out the bitterness of that encounter took precedence over whatever else needed to be done. •Frostborne Stronghold, ruins of the Royal Hive• Misery laughed as she was embraced from behind by one of her newer Chevaliers; a beautiful pegasi stallion by the name of Stardust. Unlike most of her other Chevaliers, he was reborn as a much stronger, much more different creature. He was one of seven unique Chevaliers who had adopted the name 'Revenants'. Stardust, her 'Revenant of Lust', kissed her neck and whispered sweet-nothings into her right ear. If she were a feline, she would have purred. Pushing him away gently, she glided over to the small blanket laid out on the ground in the middle of a garden of frozen flowers. In a dress of blue and white as bright as the frozen flora around them, she blended in almost perfectly. Created by another of her adoring Chevaliers, it was a place she went when she needed to rest. Sitting down on the blanket, she patted the ground for Stardust to sit as well, which he did almost immediately. Wearing leather-padded white gear from his last foray into the winter snows outside the Stronghold, his equally light-toned coat perfectly groomed and presentable. No matter what he did or wore, he always appeared wonderfully...she had spared no time in inviting him here when she felt him return. Leaning against him, she spoke softly; the melody of her voice echoing slightly. "...you've done well, my Revenant. It was a shame you could not 'save' any of the Federation soldiers, but it had to be done. However, I wish you would be more careful...while your siblings are away, all I have is you to keep me company." The stallion laughed warmly, wrapping his angelic white wings around her and smiling with equal warmth. "...my Queen should not worry so much. As always, her safety takes precedence over my own. If you were prefer, I could simply take you hostage and hide you away from everything...I could keep you to myself." When Misery narrowed her violet eyes and grimaced at him, it only made him laugh more. Opening her mouth to say something, he hushed her with a ruffle of wings and sat her up. "...we have company, my Queen." Standing up and taking a soldier's stance, Stardust eyed the massive stone doors at the far end of the garden while Misery made herself appear dignified and elegant; not like she needed to, anyway. Suddenly, the doors burst open to admit an Alicorn completely covered in black armor, and she immediately replaced her cold expression with a smile. As the black-garbed Alicorn approached, she could feel a familiar magical presence radiating from him. "Ah...you've returned, brother." When he was within a few meters distance, he knelt and removed his helmet, revealing a face similar to her own, with the exception of more masculine features...they were twins, after all. Despair was his name, and he served as her Revenant of Pride...indeed, it seemed fitting. All the titles of her Revenants were; it highlighted their previous sins. Raising his head, Despair smiled back at his sister, and nodded respectively toward Stardust; the respect of equals, which was returned by the pegasus stallion. Looking back to Misery, he stood up. "I have good news; the detachment of Chevaliers we sent under Luna's command have practically conquered the entire mountain range outside of New Manehatten...and gained us new recruits, as you no doubt have felt their first joining to us. Once the Crystal Imperial armies arrive, the city should fall without issue, hopefully submitting without any casualties once they see our superiority." Drawing a satisfied nod from Misery. They spoke for several minutes before Misery dismissed Despair, waiting until her brother left before turning back to Stardust. "So...where were we?" He laughed as he settled down with her.

•Twilight Sparkle, in Infirmary Room #377 of the New Citadel with Chronarch• When she heard Chronarch whisper in response, she felt a sudden urge to laugh with joy, but her smile slipped when she saw the right side of his face. Holding back the tears, she gently caressed his right cheek, a pained and miserable expression apparent on her face. "Oh, Chronarch...what happened to you? I...I'm sorry, if this was because of me. I-I should have seen the stress of your magic...I guess this is another tragedy caused by my ignorance, right? Seems to happen a lot these days... I am so sorry." Twilight murmured softly, her voice breaking at the end as a single tear trailed down her cheek. She did nothing to stop it; she could cry in front of Chronarch...he was family, after all. Withdrawing her hoof from his cheek, Twilight sighed deeply. "...I feel as though I made another deal with Tartarus. I made an agreement with Freelancer; it will help us win this war, but...was it worth the price? Rainbow survived the attack, and Freelancer is suppling us their best agent as her bodyguard. I do not trust them...but I will keep this 'Nova' watched. Chronarch...you remember Salus Umbra, yes? I spoke with their Oracle, and...he told me something; something dark. I fear this war will nearly destroy Equestria before it's over, and Pierrot may win...it all lies on who finds 'it' first, but in order to do that, we need the Keys. I have one..." From within her uniform, she pulled out a necklace made of magically-strengthened silver, and affixed on a small plate was a glowing white crystal, its illuminating aura powerfully bright. It was the one she had created by destroying the Elements of Harmony; some use they would be...the Key still retained the magical power of the Elements, but she hadn't figured out how to tap into the energies. "...this is the Keystone of Remembrance. I...I know I may be asking to much, Chronarch...but once you recover, I need you to find the other Keys. There are five others...and I do not know where they are, or what they are. This war we are about to fight...we will lose it. That much is obvious. Anything we do is only to delay the inevitable; either we are the first to find the Goliath, or everything is lost." She blinked after a moment, then looked away full of guilt. "...I know I ask a lot of you. If you do not wish to take this, or can't take it, I will find another. Your safety is just as important as anypony else's." •Agent Virginia 'Applebloom', Enroute to Mainland Equestria via helicopter with Agent York• The orange-coloured young mare glanced to her side as York climbed into the co-pilot's seat and made himself comfortable. " 'Bout time you got here, Yorkie. Figured you weren't comin'." Virginia muttered impatiently Flipping several switches and preparing the vehicle to ascend, she made a side note to turn of communications for now; no need for Freelancer to recall her after she left. When, or if, she got back, she would make sure to tamper with the onboard comm-link so that it would appear to be an engineering error. As the propeller blades began to gain lift and the helicopter ascended into the air, she turned on her in-flight targetting unit on the console screen, displaying the total amount of distance to their destination and the estimated time. Growling under her breath, she took the controls and had the helicopter move forward and out of the transport bay of Freelancer HQ. After a few seconds, their speed began to pick up and within a couple of minutes they were flying smoothly. Setting the computer on autopilot towards their destination, she sighed heavily. "So, York...the Dakotas keep mentionin' you havin' kids. Do you really have some foals, or is it a joke? To be frank...I never would have figured you the fatherly type. Oh, don't get me wrong; you're a great stallion, kind and often sweet, but you seem a bit too goofy to be a parent. Especially when you're drinkin'." Virginia grinned lightheartedly at him before continuing. "...and if you have little foals, does that mean you have, or had, a wife? Again; seems bizarre for you." She leaned back, taking her eyes away from him and monitoring the skies ahead of them. It was a nice day; a blue sky above, a rolling blue-green sea below, and lazy white clouds passing by them.

•Agent Virginia 'Applebloom', Freelancer HQ Cafeteria• Releasing her head, she looked up at York with a tight smile. "...yeah, I'm alright. Just a minor headahce; they've been rather common lately, but don't worry. But, South...really? I'm not even at drinkin' age yet, and I'm more mature than y'all. Anyway, York, I'll be glad to have ya with me. Plus, I can't wait to see these 'kids' of yours..." Snickering at the stallion, she got up from the cafeteria table. "...I'm already packed, just need to snag some civilian clothes before flying out to the train station mainland. You've got an hour before we gotta go, York! Meet me at the loading bay once you are packed." Saying her farewells to the Dakota twins, she picked up her breakfast and threw the rest of her food away; she lost her appetite, and proceeded to exit the cafeteria. It only took her a short while to arrive at her quarters; a moderately-sized joint bedroom and office with her more-than-friendly partner, 4-6-9er, or Harmony to her. Picking up her luggage, she hesitated before putting it back down and taking out a sheet of paper for a note to Harmony. Grabbing a pen, she began to write her message; Harmony, I have gone away to New Manehatten for a few days. Something doesn't feel right. I've been having odd dreams; the nightmares you hear me screaming at these last few evenings...I am afraid I haven't been entirely level with you on them. I need answers, so I am returning to my origins to find what I seek, and also to see if my feelings of danger are real. Please, out of whatever love you might have for me, keep the knowledge of my dreams from Him. I fear I might be used. I will return as soon as I find what I need...stay safe. Forever yours, A.B. Placing the letter underneath Harmony's pillow, she swiftly snatched her luggage and proceeded out of the room, hardly stopping to greet any other Freelancer operatives in between her and her destination. Goodness, she had spent more time on that letter than she thought! She had five minutes left before she had to fly out to the mainland; she had to hurry. Surely York was there, fully ready, by now...she felt really stupid, but knew that leaving her note behind had been necessary. Arriving at the Freelancer gunship docking bay in a rush, she approached the small auto-return Scout helicopter. Tossing the bags inside, she climbed in and hurried to the pilot's cabin, beginning the flight operation sequence and starting the engine. If York was here and ready, he will be able to climb in and sit himself down. If he wasn't...well, she'd have to go on without him. •Twilight Sparkle, Outside the New Citadel Infirmary, Room #377• It took her some time to reach the Citadel's newly-rebuilt Infirmary wing; she wasn't that much in a hurry, due to the fact that Rainbow was most likely still unconscious due to painkillers, and Chronarch even more likely to be in his coma. Supposedly, with each day a pony stayed in a coma, their chances of reawakening grew lesser. It hurt to think of it that way, but it was true; Chronarch was most likely to become a martyr, a way to further unite the Federation against this new Crystal Imperial threat. Despite that...she knew she would have prefered her Archmage and closest advisor at her side. He had been loyal to her when she was the Red Fox, and that loyalty had only grown when she revealed her true self. He was her ancestor; a five-hundred year old pony whose insurrection against Princess Celestia had been all but erased. It seemed that fighting rulers was in her blood... Taking a deep breath, she stopped in front of the door to Room #377 and saluted the two Moon Guard she had posted to watch over Chronarch's comatose body. They saluted in return, their faces grim. "...has the Archmage improved?" The Guard on the right, clearly the most senior of the two due to the extra length of gold tassles on his uniform, responded in a weary tone. "No, Grand Chancellor. The Archmage was still in a comatose state when we last checked on him...we felt a small surge of magical energy within, but that is known to occasionally happen with comatose unicorns; as you know, of course. My Lady, if you wish it...we will pull the plug discreetly; no pony will ever know, and we will make the Archmage's last moments peaceful." Twilight felt the urge to beat the Guard for his words, but kept her anger in check; she knew he was only concerned for her emotional health...but it still burned her to think of Chronarch's death as a potential political asset. Shaking her head, she pushed past the two guards. "...no, that will not be necessary. If I want him at rest, I will do it myself..." The elder guard murmured his submission as he opened the door for her, practically rushing her inside before shutting the door behind her and resuming his diligent watch. As Twilight entered and her eyes began to settle on Chronarch, her lips tightened and her eyes felt strained; her heart ached. Lately, she had been unable to see even the lowest Private, or the oldest citizen, hurt or worse; dead. Now...now she felt as though her emotions would shatter. Staring at Chronarch, she picked out the tubes connected to his body, and the beeping of the machines keeping him alive filled her ears. Trudging slightly over to him, she pulled up a chair and sat down, her expression solemn. His injuries were far worse than she thought; especially concerning his right eye and right foreleg. However, the base of the injuries seemed old, and she recalled how he had been wearing an eye-patch and leg-guards shortly after the Equinian Apocalypse. Had he been trying to hide them from her? "...you old goat...you should have came to me and showed me; I could have helped you..." Twilight whispered sadly, holding his left foreleg gently. Suddenly, she realized something: his pulse and breathing weren't in the standard of a comatose state. They were like that of a meditative trance. How long had he been like this? If he was there...maybe he'd respond to his real name. "Re-regulus...? Can you...hear me?" If he was there, she'd have to strangle him for not telling her sooner...! Or...simply cry out of joy. The second seemed much more likely.

•Rainbow Dash, at the Citadel's Eastern Entrance• "Sure, Jackie...I'll do that." Rainbow murmured as the orange mare trotted off with her RLF guards. She stood there for several moments, pondering on what just occured, before shaking her head and putting on a determined expression. How could she forget?! Twilight was about to hook her up with a bodyguard...! She had to get there fast, if she had any hope of knocking some sense into Twilight before the deal was signed. With red-hot anger fueling her steps once more, she dashed off towards where the meeting was supposed to take place. "...you better wait for me...you stubborn mare...!" •Twilight Sparkle, in the Chamber of the White, at the New Citadel of Equinia• With Freelancer out of the way, Twilight studied the fumming crystal pony in silence. Bound by magical coils, the crystal pony showed no signs of wounds or damage, and was gazing at her with a fierce glow in his scarlet eyes. Obviously male, it had the body build of a typical fighter, and old-looking scars showed that the pony was not new to combat of any kind. After a couple more moments, she motioned for the gag to be removed, drawing a growl from the prisoner as one of the Moon Guard untied the gag. Before he even had a chance to speak, she bulldozed him with questions. "So...you are one of the attackers on the Royal Hive, yes? You must have been very careful...to enter Federation territory as far as New Manehatten. An impressive feat, considering all the magical wardings and detection systems we've set up on our borders. Why were you there? What was your main objective? Who is your commanding officer, and how exactly did you arrive where my soldiers captured you...?" Her questions did nothing but make the stallion laugh, his voice deep and rough , like stones grinding against one another. By the time he sobered, he fixed her with a gaze so amused, she thought she was wearing a clown costume. "I have nothing to say to you, Southlander. You will never make me talk." The crystal pony proceeded to spit on Twilight's cheek...with rather impressive aim. In an instant, the two Moon Guard had their crescent-moon blades on both sides of the indignant prisoner's neck. Wiping away the spit with a frosty expression, she shook her head in exasperation. "Wrong answer." Her blow to the stallion occured so swiftly that the pony's eyesight could not register it, feeling enough force to tear the skin off the prisoner's face...which in fact, it did. Twilight watched in satisfaction as the creature's epidermis began to restitch itself automatically; a confirmation of what she suspected. "...the rumors are true, then. The Crystal Empire does have the dead fighting at their beck-and-call...so who was it that was capable of raising so many of you from the Underworld? A necromancer of exceptional skill, no doubt...is it perhaps your summoning that was the reason for the attack on the Hive? It would seem likely. If you refuse to speak, I can simply...put an end to your new-found life; such as it is." She brushed a hoof across the creature's cheek, fiery tendrils leaping from her touch underneath his coat, but they faded as quickly as they came when she removed her hoof. The undead creature glared hatefully at her; it's answer obvious. "Do what you like, God-slayer! My life means nothing next to my Queen. You will get nothing from me." Twilight tsked at the response. So, he wanted to play difficult, did he? Very well...it did not matter. She wanted one of these creatures for one reason and one reason only. "...very well then. I'll grant your reckless desire to die." Drawing her hoof back, she prepared for the final blow to end the creature's life, but the former pony stopped her with a sudden remark. "...Southlander. You will make sure to send that scum Pierrot to Tartarus, yes?" The question startled Twilight more than anything else had in several weeks; even more than the terrorist attacks. What did he mean by that? "I will. Don't worry yourself." As she struck the creature, veins of fire erupted all over his body as it burned inside-out, instantaneously turning into a pillar of ash, descending to the floor in a heap. His last expression held the strangest thing; a sense of peace. Dozens of questions buzzed in her head; why did he ask that? Weren't all members of the Crystal Empire Pierrot's fanatic zealots? His tools? Why would this creature feel differently? Maybe...maybe it could be traced to this 'Queen' of his. If that was the case...perhaps something could be made of it. Every structure had its cracks; she just had to find them and plant the weeds that will tear it down. Turning to the two stunned Moon Guard, she addressed them with a commanding tone. "Go and report this news to the Generals and Regional Chancellors; these creatures can be killed. Order the mass production of incendiary rounds...the explosive kind, preferably." One of the guards shook his head to recover from what just happened, nodding and repeating back what he said before the obsidian doors opened. Leading the other Moon Guard out, he went on his way toward the Military quarter of the Citadel. Twilight followed out soon afterwards, closing the large heavy doors and placing an enchanted ward to keep out intruders. Turning away, she proceeded to the Infirmary...Rainbow could use the company, and Chronarch may have re-awoken.

Pretty much as the title says, are there any plans or possibility that we might be able to access the Blogs section of Canterlot.com through our phones? I think it was be a handy feature, especially for those who are on the move often and can't sit at a computer screen for some reason. Plus, it'd just be nice to be able to make small posts/edits while we're away.

Yes; but thankfully that can't happen this time. We got longer posts!

•Agent Virginia 'Applebloom', Freelancer HQ Cafeteria• Applebloom was laughing until the discussion of Agent 117, or Nova, started. Surrounded by frightening tales of his actions during the Revolution, Nova was viewed as an enigma; a pony who shouldn't be alive, much less a Freelancer Agent. However, Applebloom thought she knew better. During the earliest days of her..."transformation"...into a Freelancer Agent, Nova had been one of the few who helped her setttle in; one of the few that she felt she had a connection with. She couldn't necessarily blame them for thinking so about him; but they could at least give the pony a chance. When North stood up for Nova, she sent an appreciative smile, but said nothing. When York passed the bits he owed to her, she quietly took them and put them away in one of her pockets; and then came his question. "...somepony I knew before the Revolution, and afterwards. You could say we're almost family...I just figured I would try to visit her before...somethin' happens to either of us." She did not like talking about that sort of thing; but wars had their victims and sacrifices. One never knew what might happen until after it happens. "Um...I could use a companion when headin' out there; I figured maybe 4-6-9er, but she's out in Equinia at the moment with that negotiations crew. Unfortunately, I have only two train tickets; I need to approach New Manehatten without drawin' attention a Freelancer dropship would-." She stopped abruptly, moving a hoof to her left temple and craddling her head slighttly. These darn headaches...! They came and went suddenly, leaving images in her head she didn't understand, images that involved a crystalline cavern, a massive golden door, and a bizarre machine with rotating floating gems surrounding it, with a gigantic globe at it's center. Gone as quickly as they came, she let out a pained sigh. •Twilight Sparkle, in the Chamber of the White, at the New Citadel of Equinia• With the Director's signing of the papers, she could feel the satisfaction radiating from the Director and that other Freelancer Agent, Carolina...it was difficullt not to giggle like a filly. Let them have their amusement; she won in more ways than they could imagine. Keeping up the facade of submission and defeat, she ignored the Director's appearance...she'd get nothing from him. No, she carefully analyzed the expressions and body language of his two fellow Agents, and the answer she got was satisfactory. Upoon mention of Applebloom, she had noticed a slight alteration in Washington's representation of himself; he knew Applebloom, and that confirmation sent several plans into motion within Twilight's head. She had been named the Red Fox because of her craftiness...much of that still remained in her, despite Herald having been purged from her body. Leaning back in her chair, her face as blank as stone, she returned her gaze to the Director. "You seem uninterested in the Goliath, Director...I figured it would be a top priority for your organization. What if...what if I tell you that the whole reason for the Revolution, the whole reason for this inevitable war, was the Goliath itself? Pierrot has invaded Equestria for one reason, and one reason only; he thinks the Goliath lies here, in these lands...we are just bugs in between him...and controlling the world itself." Taking the signed papers, she passed them over to Grimlock, who made them disappear in a scowl. Now for the next seed. "...you say this conflict isn't your problem, Director. You may even be right...for now, that is. If Pierrot wins, what makes you think he will let an organization such as your's stand? By then, there would be nothing you can do to stop him...but, of course, you don't plan on letting that happen, do you? The expansion of your armories and resources says as much..." Another seed planted, and there were more to come. Standing up, she gestured to the images on the room around them, her face still as calm and cold as ice. "I am told this room existed before there ever was a Canterlot...that other organization, Salus Umbra...a remarkable group; quite resourceful. Would you believe they have spent the last several thousand years only to protect what we consider a myth? I certainly do not. Truth be told, Director, Salus Umbra has offered more...much more...and offered to take less than what you asked for. Normally, I would have accepted their offer over yours; they have more experience, greater understanding of our enemies, and pre-date your agency by several milleniums. But I didn't..." Her eyes swept toward the obsidian doors as they opened wide, grinding against the marble floor and admitting two Moon Guard with a bound-and-gagged crystal pony who hung limply in their magical grasps. When the Moon Guards deposited the prisoner on the floor, Twilight gave an apologetic smile to the Director. ...I am afraid our discussion must be cut short, Director. Now that our official business has been finished, you may return to your headquarters. Grimlock, please escort our guests back to their ship." The mare bowed her head respectfully, murmuring acceptance, before turning to the Freelancer Agents and moving past them. "...this way, if it pleases you." She stood by the doors, waiting on the Director and his subordinates. Twilight trotted over to the prisoner, looking him up and down before saying one more thing. "Oh, and Director...pass my congratulations to your new Agent. Virginia, was it? I am sure she will do Freelancer proud..." The final seed was planted. Let them dwell on where her eyes-and-ears are in their organization; if a potential enemy believed their rival was omniscient, they would be careful not to set a hoof wrong with them. With that last. Remark, she completely withdrew her mind from the Freelancers to focus on the matter at hand.

Hmm...everything seems to be in order, Sunlight. Chronarch: Reaccepted! Also, sorry for the slight rush in posts, Frost but it isn't as bad as one period during Part 1 of the Revolution Saga...Val told me that in two days, 30-40 posts were made. Ridiculous...simply ridiculous.

Greetings, friends and acquaintences...welcome to my domain. For those of you who do not know me, I am Lord Cyrus Morrowind; I have been participating in this site, along with my dear friend Valencetiger, since last september. I would like to say she had made an impressive impact on the Free-For-All RP section with her rich, massive worlds...but that would be presumptious. I am here to remedy that. The Coltaran Chronicles project will have started almost a year ago in a few weeks, but was revealed to this site shortly after Valencetiger signed up (in fact, it was suppossed to be the main reason she signed up ). While she had tried her best to explain Coltara, I do not think she had the time or resources ro fully expand upon it...which is why I am here; after all, who better to lead you all into this beautiful and dangerous world...than one who was led there himself...? Thus is the point of this blog; to further develop and explain Coltara, and even explore it's darkest secrets. Later today, I will have the first of many posts up...I hope you all are as eager as I am. Warm Regards, Lord Cyrus Morrowind

In a way, Pierrot does want peace...but the peace he desires can only occur through his rule. Thus, if anything gets in his way...he will remove it. No questions asked.

•Agent Virginia 'Applebloom', Freelancer HQ• "Stand by. Training simulation discontinued. Proceed out of the holographic deck, Agent Virginia. Efficiency score: 97%. Combat skill score: 99%. Firearm accuracy score: 92%. Aerial combat score: 100%. Aerial piloting score: 100%. Over all score: 97.6%. Well done, Agent Virginia. Sending results to central command for evaluation." Applebloom hardly listened to the automated voice module that ran the Training Simulation Chamber, her anger flaring at intense levels. Her glare should have melted a hole right through the metal walls surrounding her. Curse it all! The Accuracy rating foiled her score again...! She needed more practice; that 8% of inaccuracy might cost the lives of herself and others...she needed to get better. Hefting the simulation rifle over her shoulder, she approached the chamber's exit with a sullen exp<b></b>ression. Applebloom had barely broken a sweat over the exercise in the flight portions, but she knew she was losing her touch in standard combat. Was it because of a lack of training? No; certainly not. Maybe it was due to her long periods as a pilot...it was making her become rusty as a foot soldier. Grimacing, she punched the metal-covered interior of the holo-deck before leaving the chamber fully, leaving a slight dent in the wall. As she began to remove the simulation gear, she began to have soothing thoughts. She was still young; very young, compared to most of the agents here. Only little more than an older filly...so she still had room to grow. Despite the comfort that notion brought her, she still felt as though she needed to work harder. After stripping off the restrictive holo-suit and taking a quick rinse in the washrooms outside of the simulation room, she dried off and put on her standard Agent's uniform. She had only been an Agent for a few months, but already she was being accepted as a member of the admittedly-dysfunctional Freelancer family; it was bizarre for an organization such as Freelancer to take in a rival agent of another agency...but Applebloom knew the reason why. She was a leverage; a valuable piece of information on the Federation and a tool to use in case Freelancer needed to deal with the Royal Liberation Front...which was now led by her elder sister, Applejack. She knew she was a pawn...but at least they treated her as one of their own, for now. Her stomach growled slightly, causing her cheeks to redden. Well...it's about time to head down to the galley for some grub. Placing her used simulation gear with the other need-to-be-washed suits in the corner, she trotted out and made her way toward the mess hall. Maybe her friends will be there this morning. As she entered the cafeteria, she spotted the small group of fellow Agents that she usually spent time with; York, and the two twin Dakotas. She considered going over there, but her stomach growled again and she smiled slightly. First, she had better fix this problem. Making her way toward the serving tables, she was greeted by many of the lower-ranked agents and soldiers who were also eating breakfast this morning. Applebloom smiled and gave her own 'hellos'...it took a bit to get the food she desperately wanted. After finishing the typical morning conversations, she rushed over to the food counters and picked out the food she wanted; pancakes, buttered toast, and a couple of oranges. The enticing smell wafting off the freshly-cooked meal made her stomach growl once more, and she quickly cut through the tables and other agents as she made her way to her fellows. Upon arriving, she noticed South's wounds and made a playful wince. "...ouch. Maine, again?" Not even waiting for the other mare's response, she sat down and began to peel back an orange. "I tell ya, South; you pick more fights than a drunkard...but then again, you are a drunkard sometimes, aren't ya?" She smiled behind chewing a slice of orange, a knowing gleam in her red-gold eyes. More often than not, Applebloom was often the chauffeur for her elder compatriots here when they went out to clubs and parties on the mainland. Due to her being under-aged, she wasn't allowed to drink; she didn't mind it, of course...seeing the older agents stumble and slur was always worth flying or driving them back and forth. Why, just last week, York and another Agent, Carolina, had passed out drunk in her room! That...was just funny. "Hey York; I hope y'all don't have anythin' planned tonight. Cuz' I'm goin' to cash in on that money y'all owe me from the last getaway we had. I actually plan on headin' out in-land to visit an old friend in New Manehatten...figured I would go see her before this crazy war begins." It wasn't the whole truth; the pony she wanted to see was her cousin, Babs Seed; the only one out of the whole Apple family who even knew or cared that Applebloom was still alive. Her cousin knew nothing about Freelancer; most of the general public didn't. When out on her mainland trips, Applebloom often pretended to be a Federation inspector; she still had the authorized I.D. and papers. Taking a bite out of her pancakes, she waited for the other agents' responses. •Twilight Sparkle, in the Chamber of White, at the New Citadel of Equinia• The Director had her in a vice; this was getting nowhere, and was becoming excessively more and more dangerous by the minute. One wrong move, and Freelancer would become even more unchecked than it currently was; she had to play the last of her cards right, if she had any hopes of getting what she had truly wanted. "...very well, Director. I understand. I will comply, as I hope you will as well." As if on queue, Grimlock approached the table with a document detailing the many articles associated with the agreement between the two factions, and at the bottom was the lines where their signatures were to be placed. "...just, one more slight detail. A couple months ago, one of my Shade Corps agents disappeared when hunting down the...bandits...that raided one of our research facilities. We have reason to believe that she was captured, and possibly executed. However, I know better than that." Twilight leaned forward slightly, her violet eyes bright with a mysterious light. Now was the time to get back what she needed. "Her name is Applebloom...if you can find her and bring her back, I will supply you with information on the Goliath...information known only by myself." Even Grimlock eyed Twilight oddly when she made her request. Why would one former agent be worth so much? Grimlock knew little of the Goliath herself, beyond the fact that it was some mechanism that Pierrot was desperately searching for.

•Rainbow Dash, at the New Citadel's East Entrance• She did not want the other mare's apology; there was nothing to apologize for. The past was the past...but why couldn't she push away the pain that was whelling up deep inside herself? She could feel unshed tears growing at the corners of her eyes, as well as her body quivering slightly from holding everything in. She heard Applejack murmur something she didn't quite catch, and then the most bizarre thing happened; the other mare began hugging he, an embrace both tight and emotional. Rainbow's eyes widened for a moment before she returned the hug, hiding her face in the other pony's mane as the tears began to flow unrestricted, her sobs muffled. "...I'm so weak, Jackie...I-I couldn't protect them...my family...Ponyville...all. those innocent lives...there was nothing I could do! It's my fault...all my fault." •Five years ago, at the ruins of Ponyville after Operation Crimson Thunder• Rainbow stared sullenly at the ash-covered town center from behind her helmet, her eyes searching for any signs of life amongst the torn down buildings. Only mere remnants remained of the once-beautiful place, a pity it would never be the same again. She no longer felt the way she once had for this place; the Revolution had dulled her feelings and shriveled her heart. Turning her head, she gazed at eight other NEO soldiers who bore the same disheartened faces as she did. Now should be a time for celebration; the war was almost over, the tyranical Principality almost demolished, and yet...why did they feel this way, as though a part of them had been ripped out? No answer could. Be given. Movement caught her eye in the rubble of City Hall, making Rainbow unstrap her rifle and order her soldiers to fan out. Approaching the place where she had seen motion. Upon further examination, she saw a mare's body hidden under some fallen scaffolding. Putting her rifle aside and pushing the rubble off the mare, she was surprised to see the former Mayor laying there, still breathing and in pain. The elder pony lifted her head and looked at her, recognizing her after a moment. "...Rainbow Dash? I...I never expected you...I feel, cold." Studying the Mayor, Rainbow could tell that many of her organs had most likely ruptured, and that she would not live long. The least she could do was ease the other mare's suffering. Taking her rifle, she lowered the barrel to the dying Mayor's head and whispered calmly, soothingly. "...I will be your wings to peace...no longer must you suffer." That had become the Order's farewell to those who have died or were dying...it seemed fitting, here of all places. Pulling the trigger, her shot rang out into the dark gray sky above. Turning away and trotting out of the ruined City Hall, she turned on her communicator and spoke clearly. "Lady Red, this is Alpha-247. Ponyville has been scoured...there were no survivors." After a brief delay, a darkly-sounding voice responded, wry and cold. "That is a shame...return to Command. It is time this war is ended." Muttering confirmation, Rainbow turned off the communicator and ordered her soldiers to fall back. Glancing back one more time, Rainbow resolved herself to never return again. •Present Day, at the New Citadel's East Entrance• Drawing herself away from the memory, Rainbow Dash pulled herself away from Applejack gently, wiping her tears away and taking a deep breath. "...thank you, Jackie...I needed that."

Fillies and gentlecolts, the first of the Revolution Saga: Invasion Story Arcs , Rise of the Chevaliers, is about to begin. Despite the main bulk of the Crystal Army remaining in the frozen tundras far to the north of Equestria, a small detachment has been sent ahead of the main body to eliminate a key objective in the war...that objective, is New Manehatten. Being one of the leading industrial cities in the Federation, it is heavily populated and manufactures many of the Federation's weapons and vehicles. As rumors begin to circulate through the large metropolitan city, the civilians grow uneasy with each passing day. With word of the disappearance of Outpost #3617, the current New Manehatten Chancellor (Nickel Brand) has issued a military lock-down of the city and surrounding region, Federation forces being placed on high alert. As the forces of both sides prepare themselves, both call out for an increase in their numbers. The following details for each side will be detailed below; Allied Equestrian Forces: Led by Chancellor Nickel Brand and Salus Umbran Grandmaster Azriel, Operation Blindlight is beginning. Due to the mysterious disappearances of the Federation Outposts on the nearby mountain range to the north of New Manehatten, a special reconnaissance team has been formed to find traces of enemy activity in the region, as well as to find any survivors. The discovery of an enemy army is crucial to the city's survival, and to that of the inhabitants. If you are of the Allied Equestrian Forces, and wish to participate, sign up for this new advancement in the war! Crystal Army Forces: Led by the newly-raised Chevalier, Luna, a small detachment of Chevaliers have been ordered to secure a foothold in the mountains outside of New Manehatten and to create supply bases in preparation of the main body of the Fifth and Ninth Crystal Armies. Labeled as Operation Stonemason, the soldiers and Chevaliers sent on this mission must protect their growing bases at all cost, so that the reinforcements will be aptly prepared to eliminate the heathen city of New Manehatten. If you are a loyal servant of Pierrot or Misery, sign up for this new advancement in the war! Remember; any side can win these conflicts, and thus your actions in these campaigns do matter! Do not ruin this opportunity for your side, otherwise the consequences could be enormous. Good luck, and fight well!

•Within the Chamber of the White, in the New Citadel of Equinia• Twilight listened intently as the Director began his speech, glancing at Carolina as the agent placed the holographic projector on the table. Grimlock entered the room as well as the obsidian doors closed behind her, making a dull thud. As the Director continued to brief Twilight on this 'Forgotten Army' that had comitted the terrorist attacks, she grew more and more concerned. However, her concern wasn't about the Forgotten Army...it was directed at the Freelancers in front of her. Without a doubt, the Director was holding back some of the information on this new threat...which also meant that he believed he was in the dominant position of these negotiations. Perhaps he was, but she was not going to simply hand him what he wanted out of her and the Federation...she knew better than that. His admission to defectors even amongst his own ranks made her smile inwardly; Freelancer wasn't the fanatical powerhouse it seemed, then. There were cracks in their structure...fissures that could be exploited, no matter how small. Next came his 'proposal' of sparing his best agent as a bodyguard, in exchange for tactical information and free reign for the agent who was employed. That...was almost insulting. Did the Director think she would simply agree to those terms, out of fear for her friend? He was bold; she would give him that, at least. When Carolina handed her Agent 117's file, Twilight scanned through it quickly, picking out the important information before setting it down. So...the Director was handing her the Everfree Demon? Quite the dangerous gambit. Despite the several advantages that Freelancer resources would give to the GEF, she knew she could not fully agree to these terms. With an expression equally as cold as the Director's, she made her own terms public. "In exchange for your best agent and Freelancer assistance, you want full cooperation from the Federation and free reign given to your in-service agent. You drive a hard bargain...but I will agree; that is, under these terms. While Agent 117 is under Federation employment, he will have access to our deepest military channels...however, he will not be allowed to contact any Freelancer agent or spy by any means, except through myself or Chancellor Rainbow Dash. All the information he passes on to you will be evaluated by either of us, and one of us must be present during such proceedings. These procautions are completely necessary; as you have stated, some of your agents may be turn-coats...so how will we know whether our important information will not fall into enemy hooves? I hate to be so suspicious of an ally...but these times call for such actions. If your chosen agent steps around my terms by any means, all Freelancer activities in Federation-owned areas will be targeted and labeled as dangers to the state of Equestria, and the Complex will be shut down...by any means necessary. Do we have an agreement...Director?" This was it. If he refuses, then nothing more could be done. If he accepts...both sides will gain numerous advantages.

Whew...you had to make me work for this one, Regal had to contact Val and world-craft a bit. Now, let's see... The Ranking System amongst Crystal Army soldiers is similar to standard in a few ways, but they possess some rather unique ranks for different positions, as well as different names for standard military groups. I'll list the rankings from highest to lowest; 1. Grand Crystal General (Pierrot) 2. Lieutenant General (Misery, Despair, Luna, etc.) 3. Banner-General 4. Colonel 5. Lieutenent Colonel 6. Major 7. Lieutenant Major 8. Banner-Captain 9. Banner-Lieutenent 10. Sergeant 11. Corporal 12. Private 13. Trainee. Also, the Crystal Army has different names given to groups of their soldiers, depending on their size and equipment. Examples from highest to lowest are; 1. Army (50,000+ Soldiers) 2. Corps (20,000 to 45,000 Soldiers) 3. Command Banner (10,000 to 15,000 Soldiers) 4. Brigade (3,000 to 5,000 Soldiers) 5. Command (300 to 1,000 Soldiers) 6. Banner (62 to 190 Soldiers) 7. Platoon (16 to 44 Soldiers) 8. Squad (9 to 10 Soldiers) As for the rankings of Chevaliers and Magus', the strongest usually rank between Major to Banner General, while those of lower ranks often lead special squadrons. Chevaliers act as the special operations forces of the Crystal Army, while the Magus' serve as medics and typically as magic-technicians...and in rare cases, as artillery. The uniforms of the Crystal Army are considerably old-fashioned in appearance, but are made from magically-enhanced steel plating that has reduced weight and increased deflection. Their armaments are similar to that of the other Factions considering firearms, but each soldier wears their own melee weapon of choice, which more often than not is enchanted with various spells. Rather than the gunships and artillery the other factions possess, they use the Crystal Orbital Array, dragons, and ursa minors/majors as their main means of transportation and vehicular warfare. However, at sea, they have a secret kind of ship that I'm unable to speak of at this point in time. Whew...I hope that answers all of your questions, Regal

(Continued from last post.) Quickly tearing off the soldier's gag, the Alicorn began to forcefully pour the dark liquid down the poor young lad's throat, drawing back as the soldier choked slightly and spit some of it up. At first, nothing happened, then suddenly the stallion began to let out an agonized scream, thrashing against his bonds as his eyes rolled to the back of his head and his muscles bulging from tension. After several minutes of the horrible scene, the stallion fell quiet finally, his eyes staring blankly at the ceiling and his chest unmoving. Skyborne gritted his teeth and snapped angrily at his captor. "Is this what you plan to do? Poison us?! Well, I'll promise you that, when this is over, I'll. See you in Tartarus and-!" He felt a blow to his jaw, discontinuing his sentence and sending a ring to his ears. The changeling at his side scowled, apparently disapproving of Skyborne's reaction. Next came the colt-like Private from earlier, desperately trying to shy away from the Alicorn and the poison-filled goblet, but unable to stop the foul liquid being dumped into his mouth. The effect it had on him was much less dramatic, his body convulsing in several muscles and his mouth opened in a silent shriek. After another few minutes, he too went limp...but at least he still breathed, though it seemed to grow weaker with each passing moment. With a nod from the Alicorn, the second changeling untied the other soldier's bonds and gingerly carried him away from the room, as if straddling a newborn foal. When the armored mare stood before him, a tingle of fear washed through his body. Was this how he would die? Was this how his service would end? His thoughts caught off abruptly to meet his gapping jaw when the Alicorn removed her helmet. The Alicorn that stood before him...was none other than the deceased Princess Luna. A gentle smile grew on Luna's face as she brought the goblet near. "...I have a feeling you will be a special one. So, you will have the honor of seeing the one who changed you, and gave you a new life...embrace it, and sleep tenderly, future Child of Misery." Unable to do anything, all Skyborne could do was feel the vile, copper-tasting liquid surge down his throat. The effects did not occur immediately, and after a while he began to wonder if he would. Then, as sudden as a flash of lightning, pain like which he had never felt before blazed through his entire body, setting fire to his insides and skin. His eyes felt like they were being dug out, his hooves being pulled from his feet, and his teeth ripping from his gums. The agony went on forever, and he could hear screaming in a far off void; his own screaming, he realized. When it finally ended, he felt his life being drained out of him, his lungs losing the capacity to draw air. However, in the corner of his mind, he heard a song; sung by a voice that sounded as though it belonged to a siren, and he felt a peace closing slowly on him...and as his world darkened and his consciousness slid away, he heard the beautiful voice speak to him, a lady's words reverberating through his head. "...welcome, my dear child. Welcome...my Chevalier." A smile grew across his face as his last breath was drawn from his body, and the warmth forever taken from it.

•Last Evening, Federation Outpost #3617, 150 Miles North of New Manehatten• A full, silvery-blue moon hung high above the mountains of which surrounded the fertile valley below, the beams of light cascading down and giving the woodlands an eerie appearance. A frigid, icy breeze swept through the area; something very unnatural to those who had spent a long time in the valley. Sergeant Skyborne gazed at the darkened forest, his emerald-coloured eyes peering uneasily into the bizarre mist that was forming on the forest floor. Outpost #3617 was one of many important bases that watched over the mountain passes for invaders, and had the largest garrison by far. However, Skyborne felt as though those numbers meant nothing tonight. Several anomalies had been occuring in their communications within the last few nights; other outposts disappearing and mysterious messages. The entire command was stiff with tension, including himself. Shivering from more than the cold, he drew back from the open window to look at his desk. Several reports lay scattered about, all from separate command posts in the region, but oddly enough the amount seemed lesser than usual. It was at this uneasy thought that a knock sudden sounded from the door. "Come in." Skyborne spoke gruffly as he began to organize the paperwork. For six years, he served the NEO and the Federation, and before that, the Principality for nearly a decade...he was getting too old for this work. The soldier who trotted into the command room was a young lance-corporal, recently recruited from New Manehatten down south, and whom never had seen real combat before. Skyborne prayed the lad never would, but knew such hopes were futile, especially in times like this. With the rumors of encroaching armies far to the north and even more bizarre stories of ponies 'back from the dead', every soldier here had to stay on his hooves. The young pegasus soldier gave a nervous smile and saluted. "Sergeant Skyborne, sir! I've been requested to join you in patrolling the perimeter, along with two other Privates." Skyborne gave an impatient nod as he gathered his rifle and followed the young lad out, shortly joining the two grunts outside after obtaining his helmet and protective gear. Giving out orders, he led the small squad out down the small, patted-down dirt road that led into the woods. The wary sergeant kept his rifle on hand, his eyes searching every misty nook and cranny hostiles could use to hide themselves. It wasn't long before the moon had reached it's highest position in the sky when the fog began to grow, seeming as if it were magically conjoured with each passing moment. Suddenly, movement caught his eye further down the dimly-lit dirt path, causing him to raise his rifle at five approaching figures. The other soldiers quickly followed suit as Skyborne studied the intruders, quickly identifying them as Changelings. Were they refugees from the attack on the Royal Hive? Acting cautious, Skyborne took off the safety of his rifle and spoke, loudly and clear, to the small group ahead of him and his squad. "Halt! You are trespassing on Federation property; identify yourselves and stand down, or deadly force will be used against you." When they showed no signs of slowing, the other soldiers also turned off their safeties and Skyborne growled and called out once more. "I said freeze, intruders! Stop, or we will shoot!" When no reply came and they gave no indication of listening to him, Skyborne narrowed his eyes and fired off a round at one of the approaching changelings, taking the center creature right between the eyes. Suddenly, the whole group stopped while the center changeling stood still, it's head thrown back by the sheer strength of the bullet. Slowly, the changeling's head returned to it's standard position, it's green eyes turning red and a crooked smile spreading across it's face, as the bullet that had penetrated it's head began to ooze out of the impact wound, the injury appearing to be knotting itself together as if it had never happened. Skyborne's eyes widened in horror as the other changelings suddenly grew similar wicked expressions, and in a blink of an eye...they charged. Out of fear and anger, he began firing multiple rounds from his gun while his squad followed suit, their bullets doing nothing to the monsters except making small holes. When the changelings were finally upon them, one of the creatures took out a wicked, curved black blade and completely decapitated the young lance-corporal beside him. Just as quickly, another of his squad fell from a well-placed blow to the side of his head, falling down like a heavy stone. Trying to draw back, Skyborne and his last squadmate tried to keep the horrors at bay, and just as Skyborne saw the last Private become completely dismembered by one of the changelings, he felt an incredible wave of pain in his side as his vision darkened, the bright moon in the sky the last light he'd see before falling unconscious. •A Few Hours Later, Federation Outpost #3617, 150 Miles North of New Manehatten• Skyborne awoke to find himself tied to one of the uncomfortable wooden chairs that had once belonged in the command's conference room, his mouth gagged and his eyes blurry. As he slowly regained his vision, he'd notice two of the...'changelings'...standing a little bit away from him, their red eyes staring intently at him. He also noticed another pair of soldiers who had been similarly captured and bound, their young eyes wide with fear as they glanced about the room nervously. With a face as blank as stone, one of the changelings approached him and removed the gag. This close, he began to pick up slight differences in them that he hadn't noticed before. They seemed...darker...than the average changeling, and they wore dark armor that looked very similar to their carapaces, as well as bearing an odd but familiar symbol on their shoulders and torsos. Where had he seen that marking before...? During the Revolution? Gently working his sore mouth, he attempted to speak with his 'captors'. "...What are you? Why have you attacked this base? Are you defectors from your Hives...?" The changelings did not respond, simply eyeing him with those cold red orbs. However, they suddenly parted and knelt at the direction of the conference room's entrance as a shadow-enshrouded figure entered. Wrapped completely in armor as black as night, one could obviously tell by the style that the wearer was a pony, but upon further inspection...Skyborne stiffled a gasp. This dark-plated warrior standing before him and his fellows was an Alicorn...so that meant these were members of the Crystal Empire. Also, he noticed that this Alicorn bore the same markings as the changelings, but had the emblems on it's cloak and torso-plate. The Alicorn came within a meer foot of him, glaring at him through fiery crimson eyes, before moving on and doing the same with the other two soldiers at his side. Suddenly, the armored Alicorn spoke to him, answering his questions in a husky but most-assuredly feminine voice. "...we are Chevaliers. Reborn to serve our mistress by any means necessary...and you, and these two young ones, have been chosen. However...not all of you may survive our 'choosing'." That voice...where had heard it before? It itched in the back of his mind, as if he should remember it, but couldn't. "What do you mean 'choosing'? What do you plan to do with us?" It was difficult to remain calm, but he had no other choice; somepony had to remain stalwart for the two whelps next to him. Not even bothering to answer, the mysterious Alicorn approached the soldier farthest from him and levitated a silver goblet, filled with a dark, thick liquid which appeared eerily similar to blood in the dim lighting of the room.

•Rainbow Dash, at the Citadel's East Entrance• "I don't blame the Crystal Empire, Applejack. Odds are, Pierrot's tricked them into believing he's their best choice. Besides, we've no idea how life is in that place anymore...and as for the Freelancers, I've no clue. However, the Federation is moving...where, I can't say because I've been in the infirmary; but still moving." Part of her wanted to blame the Crystal Empire for this new war, but she also knew that another war would probably have occured, even without Pierrot and his ilk. Despite the threat looming over Equestria, the factions were still tense with one another...it was an uneasy alliance, and the future of that alliance was unpredictable. Rainbow noticed the other mare's sudden exp<b></b>ression of shock and peered in that direction, seeing nothing. Looking back in confusion, she heard Applejack's comment. "...you know you can ask me anything, Jackie. The war hasn't changed that." However, Applejack's question did shock her. Why had she made the decisions she made...? Was she ready to part with such information, knowing what it might entail? Another shock came to her; she was ready to talk about it, if not explain it a little. But...how would Applejack view her after she was finished? Taking a deep breath, she began the long story that would explain everything. "...there was more to it than that. We kept most of the Revolution's tragedies out of most records...there was more than the Great Purges of Stalliongrad and Manehatten. Much more. I joined the rebels after the first of the revolts in Cloudsdale...do you know how they were put down?" She grimaced slightly, pain altering her face. "...the Revolution wasn't so much a war against the Princesses, but more against the corruption of the Principality. Do you know about what they did to the pegasi of those first Cloudsdale revolts? The Governor...he had the soldiers tear off the wings of each protestor and then tossed them off Cloudsdale to plummet to their deaths...do you know what that is like? Seeing your friends, your family, mutilated in front of your eyes and thrown away like dolls?!" Rainbow Dash took a shuddering breath to ease herself, before continuing again. "After that, I sought out the NEO and joined their ranks. I was in it before there ever was a Red Fox. Even if the Princesses did nothing wrong...how could they simply stand by and let those things happen to their own ponies? The NEO appeared to be the bright new future...for everypony. It wasn't until the first fighting began that the Red Fox came to power, and that was when the 'dream' turned into a nightmare...I still remember the first words I heard from it; "the blood of the many must be spilt, before the blood of the few can survive". None of us could have guessed the intentions behind those words...and none of us could put a stop to it. Applejack...I blame the Red Fox for the awful things that happened, not Twilight. The Twilight we used to know...the Twilight we still know...she would never have done all those horrible things willingly!" She fell silent, her eyes tight from holding back tears. The Red Fox was Twilight...everypony knew that now, but...Rainbow knew, deep in her heart, that her friend had never meant to do the things she had done. Of course, not many could say that. The 'Red Fox' was be stained with the wrongs it had committed, and Twilight was suffering for them. Shaking her head, she continued on, her voice tightening. "...I was relieved when Twilight broke free of her possession, but...I was also frightened. How could she stand it, knowing that she had...you know, and yet couldn't control herself? It must have been Tartarus for her. I...remain with the GEF because I'm worried for Twily. For all I know, she could barely be holding onto her sanity...especially with everything that is going on, now!" Her voice broke at the end, and she sniffled a bit, but refused to shed a tear in front of Applejack. It wouldn't be suitable.

NPCs are allowed if they are going to have small parts to play; if you plan on using them a lot, an application may be needed, depending on how large a role you're having them play.

You might want to also include Squad and Squad Position in the Application Sheet. There are 13 different Court Squads, and the ranks go from Captain, Lt., Third Seat, Fourth Seat, Fifth Seat, and finally the simple soldier. (Side note: Normally, only Captains have achieved Bankai. However, a zanpakutou's 2nd transformation can be used by any rank. There are rare cases of Lieutenants achieving Bankai, but those are few and far between.)

Of course, if that is the time you think your character truly needs, than feel free to do so. I will be exciting to see how Striker has changed this time...

Ah, excellent! I'll be sure to do that.

•Twilight Sparkle and Grimlock, in the Citadel's Northern Halls• As the small entourage continued through the halls to their destination, Twilight caught Wash's remark about how swiftly they had rebuilt the Citadel, and smiled brightly, and even more at Carolina's retort. "I admire your determination, Agent Carolina. You must make Freelancer proud, I think. As for your statement, Agent Washington...yes, it is remarkable. With the advances in technology and magic that have occured over the last six years, almost anything is possible. Director, you may find the architecture quite familiar...does Roam sound familiar? I visited it, and the Roaman Empire, during my travels before the Revolution. An intriguing culture, I must admit...and their style of building took a hold on me." With the call about Applejack, and the Director's snyde comments, she was not in the mood for mockery, and her current emotions made the smile she was displaying turn cold. "...even allies can stray to far and cause problems, Director. Applejack should know about that, but I'm afraid her upbringing sometimes...distracts her...from proper political etiquette." Grimlock sent a warning glance back at Twilight, causing her to sigh inwardly. Her emotions had been sporadic of late, and she simply could not fully control it. Regardless, she had to perform better. This was a dangerous game they were playing...one wrong move could easily prove to be check-mate. With Carolina's remark about moving on to the conference room, Grimlock sent an approving smirk at the fellow elite soldier. It seems they both wanted this to go smoothly, perhaps more so than their superiors. Then, finally came the Director's mention of his interest in Twilight's reputation, causing the mare to pause and Grimlock to wince slightly. Twilight turned to regard the Director, her violet eyes regarding him quietly, before she responded quietly. "...for the last six years my heart was painted red by anger. That poison of hatred disappeared only recently...take it as you will, Director." Turning her head away from him, she slowly began their march again. At last, they finally arrived at a pair of large obsidian doors, the Federation's hammer and pickaxe symbol on each side. With a silent word, Grimlock pressed her hoof against the obsidian slabs, causing a bright light to radiate from the doors, disappearing as swiftly as it appeared and the entrance opening with the creak of heavy stone. Turning, Grimlock made another bow. "If you all will enter, please? I cannot keep them open for long...powerful magic, and all." Even the mare's voice sounded strained. Twilight nodded and went into the slight gloom, as the white-marble room suddenly lit up with torches of blue flames, revealing a long stone table with padded wooden seats in organized rows. On the walls depicted strange drawing of creatures out of myth and legend, and at the far end stood a picture of several floating crystals, all connected to a single piano-like instrument. This room existed in-between realities; making it the perfect spot to hold a secret meeting. When she found her seat at the end and sat down, she gestured for them to enter. "Come in, come in...make yourselves confortable before my guardsmare suffers magic-influx." •Rainbow Dash, at the Citadel's East Entrance• Rainbow was surprised at the initial amount of enthusiasm Applejack had shown at seeing her, and she slightly wished that the mare had actually gone through with the embrace; like old times. However, these weren't the days of their fillyhood...and they probably would never be the same again. However, she was touched at her old friend's concern for her well-being. "Ah, well...I'm glad you did, but I'm fine! Honestly! Just a few scratches...no idiot terrorists are going to take me out that easily! C'mon, I'm the fastest flier in Equestria..." Rainbow smiled slightly at the old joke, but she quickly sobered after seeing Applejack's expression. "...as for Twily, she's got a lot on her plate right now...she has to be 'high and mighty' now. Like it or not, she's a ruler of a nation now, Applejack...and she knows that she needs be the leader everypony expects her to be. You can understand how that is like, can't you?" Sighing, she brushed her rainbow-coloured mane to the side. It had grown out recently, and gave her a more feminine appearance than usual. "Advice? What advice could you want from me?" As Rainbow Dash listened to Applejack's report on the attack of the RLF convoy, and as she dwelled further and further on, Rainbow's exp<b></b>ression grew ever more grim. When Applejack finished, she grimaced. "Applejack, how long had the Federation and the RLF fought? Surely you and I, of all ponies, know our own faction's greatest strengths and weaknesses. You are trying to transform the RLF into a fully-militarized fighting force, so that it can combat Pierrot's armies on in open battle. That isn't the way to go. Your soldiers are more used to the years of guerilla warfare tactics they used against us...maybe they should use such skills against our new enemies? Leave the open battles to the Federation, Applejack. We're better equipped and have greater experience in such things compared to your faction. The best way I'd use your previous skills is to harry and interrupt the enemy; make them move slower, disperse unnecessarily, and draw even more protection for their supplies, rarher than supplying soldiers to the front. Do you see where I am going with this...?"

My, oh my...you've out-done yourselves with these applications, fillies and gentlecolts. I'm glad to type these words below; Star Striker; Reaccepted! BonBon; Accepted! Valour Bound; Accepted! NovaArkwing; Reaccepted! As for the status of the Crystal Heart...it still exists, but has been amplified and changed into a crystalline super-weapon. Now a marvel of magic and science, the Crystal Heart has become a celestial cannon, capable of making orbital strikes on locations of importance. This also includes magical teleportation shipments and troop transportation. The war is just about to begin, everypony. Are you ready for what is about to come next? I don't think you are... *Queue evil laugh*

Sure, why not?