The celebrations were in full swing. The night sky was set ablaze with the constant explosion of fireworks, the myriad of colours rivaling even the stars themselves in beauty, the sounds of hearty laughter and energetic conversation echoed throughout the valley. Its joyous sound could be heard for miles around; the Castle of Dracovale a beacon of happiness and light that seemed eternal. Most folk could find joy and wonder in abundance here, but to Shade, the being of Shadow, it was just another reminder of what he'd had to give up to become who he was, just another memory of a time long ago when he could still feel happiness and love.
Now his mind was set on one goal, redemption. One last job, one last mission and he would win back his life, his honour. He needed to capture the Barnwr.
The Castle's defences were impressive, the entire castle sat on a huge, smooth outcrop of rock, hardly any good places for scaling the cliffs, and of course the main entrance would be well guarded, much better security than Canterlot, not counting the Dragons presence, and according to the information brought by his mole the guards were highly competent, unusual for most towns he visited, for good reason. Dracovale had a long tradition of keeping its soldiers in tip top condition, only picking the brightest and best among their populace. Despite what the people of the Everfree valley and the snobs at Canterlot would have you believe, Equestria was never short of enemies, and Dracovale had seen her armies marching to war with the remnants of the Shadow King Sombra's armies, the Changelings and rogue Griffon clans to name a few multiple times, their commanders noting down every success and every mistake, so even if some of these guards were raw recruits they would have been taught to look out for all the tricks in a spy's book, even a relaxed atmosphere like this would do little to temper their vigilance.
He would have to resort to some unorthodox methods.
It had taken him 2 hours but now he found the perfect spot, no lighted windows and no patrols. No one thought anyone could enter here. The cliffs were too smooth to climb and the walls were guarded by two mighty towers, specifically designed to counter ground and aerial attack, both empty. As long as his timing was right (and it rarely wasn't), he could make it. Taking out a dismantled crossbow from his pack he quickly assembled the pieces, then took out a large hooked bolt and tied a piece of rope to the end. He then took aim at the nearest tower, 4 floors above its bottom floor, nearly midway up, and pulled the trigger.
The distance was considerable, but the bolt found its mark.
Shade then disassembled the crossbow and put it back in his pack, taking out a bar connected to two sets of steel wheels before closing up the pack, then shouldering it, then placing the bar on the rope, gripping both ends tightly, and pushing himself down towards the abyss.
The cold night air assaulted him as he sped down the rope, the calm summer air turning immediately into raging winter storm, his heart beating fast and heavy against his chest in subdued excitement. Then no sooner had he left the cliff face, he was now nearing the tower walls. At this speed he could crash head long into the wall, then fall to his death, but he had planned for that too. Pressing two small buttons on each bar he steadily slowed his decent, stopping just above the window.
Then swinging his body towards the wall he planted his feet onto the edge of the window sill, then taking one hand of the bar and placing it on the frame, then once he was secure he quickly looked over the window, a standard casement, praise the Dwiaui for blessing him with such a simple obstacle. He then let go of the bar and reached into one of the 4 pouches on his belt, pulling out a small knife he carefully placed the tip in the center of the window, then he quickly cut a small circle into the glass. Putting away the knife he placed his right palm over the circle, slowly and silently easing the glass free, then put said glass into his mouth, gently holding it in place with his teeth before reaching again into his pouch for a lock-pick. Having obtained it he reached inside and tried the handle. As expected it was locked, so he felt around for the key hole, quickly finding it he put the lock pick into it and started to move it around, feeling the inside of the lock. It took him half a minute, but he finally heard the click of the lock, then he slowly opened the window and silently climbed in. Then he swiftly cut the rope, pulled out the bolt from the wall, carefully closed the window and put the glass back in place.
Now that was done he could turn his attention to finding the Barnwr, but first he needed to blend in.......
************************
This was certainly a celebration for the ages. As soon as the last rays of the sun had set beyond the horizon Dracovale was lit ablaze with countless festive lights, the silence of the night air broken by the eruption of drums, bagpipes, lutes, harps, crumhorns, hurdy-gurdies, recorders, sacbuts* and the melodic voices of court poets, bards, minstrels mixed in with Equestrian Classical, a brand of music especially popular in Canterlot. Mixed in with this joyful music were the sounds of idle gossip, joyful laughter, occasional bouts of drunken shouting (and it hadn't even reached midnight yet(!)) and roaring cheers down in the inner bailey as the finest Equestrian and Human Knights gathered to participate in the annual Summer Solstice Tournament, a tradition that Dracovale held once every year, inviting nobility and commoners throughout Equestria and beyond to witness the skills and courage of the best Knights in the land, and win or lose a bet or two on who would win of course. Of course in honour of the Royal visit the contest was more extravagant and crowded than ever, the stadium packed so full the crowd was like a can of sardines to watch such popular contests like Archery (both mundane and magical), Foot combat in full plate armour with blunted swords and pollaxes, and one of the most popular (if still a little controversial) sports, Jousting.*
How Remus enjoyed this celebration, and how much more he'd be enjoying it if he didn't have his mind on both Spyro's new status and the news he would have to take over management of Dracovale, a task he wasn't sure he was ready for.
At the very least a couple of rounds in the fencing ring would give him something else to ease his troubled mind, and give the people of the Vale and Equestria a good show whilst he did it. Hopefully Spyro could find some enjoyment in this festival once he got back, the Old Gods know he needed it, especially after their encounter with the Draig Riekers.
"Is something troubling you my Lord?" asked Remus' squire, a boy of 13 named Lancel Owyn, noticing his rather pensive expression.
"Err, no Lancel, just preoccupied, that's all."
Lancel shrugged and carried on arming Remus, strapping on the left pauldron before picking up a pair of fingered gauntlets from a nearby chair.
"Lancel, may I ask you a question?"
"Of course my Lord" replied Lancel.
"When you were chosen as my squire, how did you feel? And I want an honest answer, no sugar-coating."
"Well.......I....I was nervous my Lord, that's a given, but also eager, like many Squires, eager to serve my new master with all my skills. That's it basically, nothing more or less."
"Did you feel frightened? That you were being given a task you feared you'd fail at?"
"Are you unsatisfied with my efforts my.....?"
"No, no. Your work has been commendable Lancel. I couldn't ask for a better Squire. I just....
"You know what, its not important. Lets just enjoy the night while it lasts. Hand me my helm."
Lancel obeyed and picked up Remus' helmet, an Armet* with a subtly pointed visor with the Phoenix of the Palentines engraved on the brow. Securing it to his head Remus walked over to a pollaxe propped up against the walls and took it up. Then he quickly made a note of his gear.
Sword? Check.
Dagger? Check
Arms and legs, nice and flexible.
Looks like he was all set.
"Oh! Lancel? Do you know where Lords Nerevor and Spyro are at this time? I don't I've seen a Draig at the celebrations all afternoon."
"I'm not sure my Lord, but the Tribunal has yet to make an appearance either, not since they arrived. And as for the Order of Harmony, they weren't able to make it here at all."
"What? Why, and where did you learn this?"
"From your Noble Father my Lord. He commanded me to tell you the Tribunal will be meeting with Lord Spyro this evening, and won't make an appearance until its time for the dawn to rise. Also the I heard Princess Twilight say that the order is currently engaged in another task in the Everfree Forest, she didn't say what, and would be too busy to make it to the Celebrations in time."
Well, this is certainly strange. Remus thought, I wonder if it has something to do with Spyro? No of course not, that forest is littered with dangers, from Bandits to poisonous plants and many strange and dangerous creatures, and it was rumoured the place had a mind of its own, traversable one moment and highly dangerous the next. You never knew what 'mood' (for want of a better word) that forest was likely to be in before you stepped inside.
"Well, wether or not Royalty is attending we'll put on a grand spectacle regardless. Lets show all of Equestria what the Men of Dracovale are made of."
"Good luck out there my Lord" said Lancel, "may your aim be true and your victory swift"
"Well hopefully not too swift. Wouldn't be that exciting otherwise."
With that Remus walked towards the doors leading into the courtyard, his pollaxe casually slung over his shoulder as he walked. Nearing the doors he heard the faint cry of the announcer, a woman by the sounds of it, or Mare or...to many races in Equestria to guess which one.
"Now for the match of the day, presenting the heir to the seat of Dracovale, renowned Swordsman and Son to your host, Earl Cassius Palentine...." The gates started to open, now for his entrance.
"Give your hands, hooves and talons for...Loooooorrrrrd REMUS!"
Stepping out into the courtyard Remus was greeted with a roar of applause, humans clapping and Equestrians stamping their hooves in the stands both roaring their praise and support. Remus blushed inside his helmet with barely constrained pride.
"And his first opponent!" the Announcer called out again, "Hailing from the Human colonies in the Crystal mountains, the White Wolf of the North, Champion of the Crystal Empire, give it up for.....Edmund Moor, Warden of the North!" Another deafening roar followed
Well Remus thought, this should get interesting. He'd heard of the famous White Wolf, a giant of a man, measuring six and a half feet high, dwarfing everything short of a Minotaur and nearly as strong, sporting a short, bright white beard, from which he derived his title, armoured in black plate steel and wielding a massive two handed sword whom he called 'Wraith'. He was also renowned for his excellent strategy and pragmatic intelligence, having fought many raiders from beyond the Crystal mountains, and had many more victories under his belt than defeats. So much for starting of easy.
The two combatants slowly walked towards each other, the crowd cheering them all the way to the center. As was custom they saluted each other by crossing their pollaxes, then shock hands.
"An honour to meet you Remus, son of Cassius" said the White Wolf, "I've heard plenty of stories of your skills from your Father."
"The honour is mine Edmund son of Ulfric, Warden of the North" replied Remus, "the Crystal Empire is lucky to have such a champion among its ranks".
"As does Dracovale with you. May both our houses win glory in this arena tonight."
The two then separated, both pulling down their visors and assuming their fighting stances.
************************
Spyro ran out of the caverns as fast as his legs could carry him, his head ringing with too many unanswered questions and his senses on full alert for any possible danger. This 'Vanator' had claimed the castle, his people and Equestrian monarchy were all in danger, but from what? And he said he knew him from 'a previous life?' Did he mean re-incarnation? Was the enemy those people who attacked him and his friends near Neighagra falls? What did any of this mean? He sought answers and only found more questions!
He only hoped he could arrive at the party in time to stop whatever was going to happen.
As he cleared the last step he ran into Ratchet and Sparx, stopping mere inches before crashing into them.
"Guys! We need to get to the plaza! I don't know how or why, but something terrible is going to happen there!"
"Wait, did your dad tell you this?" asked Ratchet.
"Well....no, I met someone else in the caverns, someone who claimed to have known me in, 'a past life', and he told me something is going to happen tonight at the celebrations. He said the Draig and the Tribunal are in danger!"
As expected Ratchet and Sparx looked confused and bewildered (to say the least).
"Look I know its confusing, and yes, I'm aware that a complete stranger told me an attack is coming but didn't tell me what so I should be very suspicious right now, but my gut tells me that whether this guy means ill or good, something is going to happen tonight, there might not be any time to waste! I'll explain as we head to the veranda".
Needless to say both Ratchet and Sparx were now stumped. As simple as the explanation was, Spyro might as well have sprouted out a lecture on advanced mathematics and accountancy for all the sense this situation made to them. A complete stranger told Spyro that everyone at the celebration was in danger from....something....and they were supposed to go along with it?
Well what the heck, thought Sparx, it isn't the weirdest thing to happen this week
"Alright Spyro" said Sparx, "lead the way."
Spyro nodded in thanks, then took off again down the corridor, Ratchet and Sparx in hot pursuit.
"Right....I met a creature that calls itself, 'Vanator', and it told me that someone, or something, is aiming to ambush both my people and the Tribunal tonight."
"But...how Spyro?" asked Ratchet, running alongside him, "the Castle is guarded heavily and patrolled regually, not to mention there's only one easily accessible route in, and that's through the main entrance, where Remus' elite guard are stationed. How can anyone...."
"I don't know Ratchet. I'm just repeating what I heard. But if the Tribunal and Draig are in danger we need to get to the celebrations as soon as possible. In case it might be useful, did you find anything in your search?"
"Yes we did" said Sparx, "we ran into Princess Twilight in the library. She was asking for you to meet her and the rest of the Tribunal in Cassius' study, then we found this note on the floor, it had the face of a frightening Draig on the cover and a poem, which read.....
'The Answers you seek lie in Frostvale.' something about a being called Lightbringer returning, and 'The Year of Red Sun has arrived.' Does that ring any bells?"
"The Year of Red Sun? No, can't say it does, but I know of Lightbringer. He was the creature responsible for the exodus of Draig and Mankind, something that took the form of a man but was not really a man, turning a huge percentage of the Human race against us and our allies, driving us from the homeland. But that's something every Draig knows, so that's not helpful either."
"What about the first line?" Sparx asked, "The Answers you seek lie in Frostvale."
"That's up north" said Ratchet, "beyond the Crystal Empire, in the Crystal Mountains. An old human fortress that was abandoned 100 years ago. It was built to safeguard the North against the creatures beyond the mountain range, but is now a deserted ruin, home to nothing but shadow and ice."
Spyro groaned in frustration. No Draig or man had been up there in 100 years, with good reason. The remnants of the Shadow King, the being known as Sombra, still walked the lands beyond the mountains, even with their master gone they still persisted and were a serious threat to anyone they caught wandering in the area. There was no way the three of them would be able to journey there alone and survive. That would mean bringing Lord Cassius and his men into this, as well as his Father. And he knew how likely they would be to help, the legions of men occupied with protecting Equestria's borders from threats like Sombra's followers and the Changelings among others, and for all he knew, Nerevor was still in denial at this whole revelation, he didn't know which was worse, facing a father that would more than likely do everything in his power from preventing him from pursuing this matter, having the nerve to ask Cassius for military aid he more than likely could not spare, or the risk of this unknown danger threatening the entire castle.
But he didn't have the time to worry about that now. He had to find out whether or not the warning was true, and how to combat something he didn't know about.
"Well first we need to get to the Tribunal. Sparx, you said they were waiting in Lord Cassius' office?"
"Yes. Should we go there first or the veranda?"
"I'll go to Cassius' office, see if the Tribunal are alright and hear what they have to say, you two get to the Veranda and look out for anything suspicious. We'll be able to cover more ground and with any luck we'll find the source of what's going on, and if there's a threat...well, I won't let it harm anyone, least of all my kin."
"But what about everyone at the celebrations?" asked Sparx, "I don't think the excuse of 'a strange guy in a red robe told me dangerous vodoo is going down' is going to fly. How are we going to save everyone from a threat that may or may not exist?"
"We won't be able to. But with you and Remus on the lookout, we'll have a better chance to spot any trouble before it happens. It's not the best plan, but its the best one we've got."
"Very well Spyro, see you outside."
"Good luck guys."
With that Spyro turned left at the next corridor and sprinted towards Cassius' office whilst Ratchet and Sparx continued to the main entrance.
Meanwhile, hanging in a dark corner of the hall way, on the ceiling no less(!), an equine figure looked on at the 3 friends departure. Her body blended into the stone work, to anyone who looked up it would seem as nothing was there. Like a Chameleon she blended so well into the walls so well, he might as well be a part of them, until he moved, her colour and her body shifting into a black, skeletal form, her bright blue eyes devoid of any pupil, his true form sprouting insectoid wings from her back and a jagged horn on her forehead, though unlike her kin she was also moderately tall, three quarters the height of an average human, and despite her body being skeletal, he was also strongly built. To anyone who gazed on her and her race, she and they were the stuff of nightmares, a being of mystery, horror, and fear.
She was a Boyarg, a Changeling.
****************
Shade was now working his way into the heart of the castle, having procured a very convincing disguise, a Palentine guard's uniform, which included an enclosed helmet, not completely face concealing, he'd still have to be careful who saw him, but enough to blend in. Now he was waiting for his mole to report, which shouldn't be long, Icararus was always reliable.
And right on cue he felt the presence of the Changeling approaching. Years spent as his partner meant he knew what signs to read for when she approached. He felt the familiar presence of her thoughts bonding with his, and doing as he was taught, closed most of his mind of from her influence, leaving only one area open for communications. As strange as this sounds, this is how Changelings communicate with each other, and with those they deign to call a friend. Then from the shadows a bright heavily armoured knight walked from the shadows, his chest emblazoned with the Palentine sigil, his armour highly decorative.
Eris, what are you doing? thought Shade, his minds voice barely holding back a tone of irritation, I thought you were a master of disguise and deception?
Oh Shade, grant me this one time? I've always found human clothing and armour fascinating, as well as their customs.
Your curiosity is a mixed blessing Eris, but time is wasting, what have you learned?
Well, it seems our employer was right. The Barnwr is here, he's heading straight for the office of Lord Cassius, he's meeting with the Equestrian royalty.
Damn! I thought the Tribunal were supposed to be gathered on the Veranda?
They were, but the Barnwr mentioned hearing about some kind of threat to him and his people. I don't think he knows of us yet, but it could be possible there's a third player in this.
To say Shade was intrigued would be true enough, though in his line of work he and Eris faced unexpected complications all the time, so all he felt right now was mild annoyance more than anything else. If its who I think it is, this task has gotten more difficult.
He really do like crashing our most important jobs don't he?
On the one hand this could be a huge complication in our original plan, on the other though this could present and interesting opportunity. Whatever the case, we'll have to stay close if we are to have a chance of capturing him. As long as we stay out of sight of the Tribunal we should still have a chance of succeeding. You follow them, I'll head to the Veranda, they're bound to head that way once they're done. Stay out of sight, and don't get too close, I don't need to tell you what will happen if you're caught.
Aww, you worried for little me?
Just get going!
All right Shade, you know that temper's not doing you wonders. You should think about taking a break after this job's done.
We will. Once this is done, we'll both be free from his servitude, but until then, keep your curiosities to a minimum and I'll try to control my temper.
I'll hold you to that deal Shade., then the knight faded away to be replaced with a small blue Earth Pony Mare, armoured again but this time in Equestrian royal armour, then she walked of down the hall way, giving Shade a cheeky wink before she left.
Shade silently sighed with mild annoyance as he headed for the main gate.
Little did he know his rivals were watching him.
**************************
Meanwhile Spyro had now reached Cassius' office. Time to find out what the Tribunal has to say. He knocked the heavy oak door lightly, then a second later a calm voice answered, "Enter", and Spyro did so.
Entering the office he found a tall white Alicorn with a shimmering, multi-coloured mane standing in front of Cassius' desk, flanked by two smaller Alicorns, one Dark blue with a mane that seemed to shine with the night sky, presumably Luna, despite the room being well lit, and another who he presumed was Twilight. So, this was the all-powerful Tribunal.
"Your majesties" said Spyro, bowing his head, "you sent for me."
"Spyro, Son of Nerevor, its good to see you at last" said the White Alicorn, who very obviously was Celestia, Princess of the Sun and arguably the strongest of the Tribunal. "I trust you know why you're here?"
"I do. You think I'm the Barnwr, and thus you want the story of what happened to me from my own mouth to clear up loose ends."
"That is so Lord Spyro" said Luna, "although I sense you have something to say that's of equal importance?"
"I do. If I might be permitted?" All three nodded, though Spyro noticed Twilight's eyes flinch a bit in surprise, whilst the other two remained completely emotionless.
"It may be a hard tale to swallow, but I assure you that what you'll hear is the truth".
He then told them everything that happened up to that point as brief as he could, the Tribunal listening intently, all three showing no signs of emotion. Then came the tricky part, explaining his encounter with Vanator.
"I went down into the caverns to search for my Father, I'm sure you know him very well, when I ran into a cloaked stranger. I don't know how he got in, or who he was, but he claimed to know me from, 'a past life', if that makes any sense to you, and told me of a danger that threatens to strike tonight during the festival. I don't know whether he was lying, or being true, but I do know that something could happen tonight, something that threatens both you and my kin.
"You don't have to believe me, just letting you know. Whatever is going to happen tonight, me and my friends aim to stop it."
"Not without our aid you're not" replied Luna.
Spyro cocked his head in mild confusion. "You're saying...."
"We believe you" said Twilight bluntly, "Don't get me wrong, if not for everything that's been happening recently, we'd have a harder time believing you without proof, as much as we'd like too. But what you've told us in light of what we know about, well, your heritage, this is all the proof we need."
"You do seem to know much about my 'heritage' your majesties, but that will have to wait for another time. What are your orders?"
"If we and your kin are indeed the targets of this attack" said Luna, "then we need to draw them away from the celebrations. No collateral damage, no innocent shall be threatened or harmed."
"And how will we do that?" asked Twilight, "we don't know where they are or what they're planning. For all we know they might be inside the castle right now."
"Yes. I do believe they are." The room fell silent after Celestia spoke those words. For half a minute no-one said a word in response, until Twilight decided to break the silence.
"Then, what do we do?"
"The only thing we can do. Work with what we have. No doubt they'll be waiting for the right moment to strike, perhaps when we go out to the veranda to perform our duties. I say we give them that opportunity."
To Spyro's shock, neither Luna nor Twilight were shocked by this announcement, as
"WHAT.....? With respect your majesty, but wouldn't it make more sense to get everyone out of here?"
"That's just what I intend to do Spyro. After the last two times did you think I never learned from past experiences?"
Spyro gave a silent chuckle, of course, three years ago two of the most previous Summer Solstice festivals had been plagued by malevolent forces as well, first the return of Luna, who back then had been corrupted against her will and threatened to overrun the world in Eternal Night, on the millennium of Celestia's ascension to the throne no less, but then was redeemed at the end, and a second time when both she and Celestia were captured by plants running on dark magic, courtesy of their old rival turned ally, Discord, spirit of chaos, the following events which would eventually lead to the founding of the Order of Harmony.
"I've set up a contingency plan for every event where I, my kin or the Order of Harmony are attending, each member of the public is given a mark on the way in. For most folk this will be seen as simply a way to identify guests and allow them in again should they decide to momentarily leave. However unknown to all but a select few the marks are enchanted markers, created by a combination of Alicorn and Draig magic, if anyone is in danger of being attacked or captured I have a team of Unicorns on standby to activate the markets and teleport everyone out of the area to a nearby safe house, thus depriving any attacker of potential hostages. Its not the best plan, but at least no innocents will be caught in the crossfire, and we can deal with the threat without danger of collateral damage.
"The marks also alert nearby guards to the danger, thus making it easier to co-ordinate our forces. You can thank your Father for that little addition."
Spyro nodded agreement, yes, that sounded like an idea his father would come up with. Even if he wasn't a member of the Legions, Nerevor had a strong grasp of tactics and strategy inherited from his father, who served as a Dragon Knight* in the 3rd Legion (stationed near the Crystal Mountains).
However with the mention of his Father, Spyro suddenly remembered he still hadn't found him, or told him of this threat.
"Your Majesties, forgive me for changing the subject, but I've been looking for him down in the caverns, but I haven't been able to find him or any of my kin. Since they're in danger as well....."
"We know" interrupted Luna, "We've been trying to find him as well, though we've been unsuccessful so far."
"Wait, are you saying my father isn't even here? How long has he been missing?!"
"For roughly 12 hours." replied Luna, "last we saw him he told us he was meeting with......"
Suddenly the sound an muffled explosion sounded just above them, the force of the explosion sending small shock waves through the room, followed by the sound of screaming and the drawing of swords. Springing into action the Tribunal and Spyro raced out the door towards the courtyard. What they found waiting for them was, chaos.
*******************
(2 minutes earlier)
The duel had reached a dramatic climax. Throughout it the White Wolf seemed to hold the upper hand, his size and strength, as well as his surprising dexterity and speed, kept Remus dodging and parrying constantly, never able to get a good blow in through his constant attacks. What did they say, the best defense was a good offense? Clearly the White Wolf had this down perfectly.
Meanwhile unknown-st to anyone, the enemy was moving through the ranks of the Castle guard. Once in position they swiftly and precisely slit the throats of 5 guards, then some members of the crowd were suddenly draped in green fire, their images shifting to reveal black, insect like equines and humanoids with eerie, pupil-less eyes.
Taken completely by surprise everyone in the courtyard had little time to react before hundreds of the insectoid creatures descended upon them.
Down in the arena, Remus watched in horror as hundreds of the creatures crawled over the battlements, dispatching one by one the majority of the guard and swiftly making their way towards the nobility in the stands.
"CHANGELINGS! To arms! To ARMS!" Remus threw down his pollaxe and drew his blade and rallied the remaining guards to his side as the Changeling horde closed in around them. Then came a massive explosion as the nearest tower was engulfed in black fire, followed by the second, then the third.
Almost immediately the panicking crowd began to disappear in flashes of multi-coloured light, and more Changelings began to appear from below the ramparts, quickly overwhelming the castle defenses. Those who survived now found themselves cut of and alone as the horde swarmed around them. It was.....Chaos...no other word could describe it, complete and utter Chaos.
Then the Tribunal arrived.
All 3 monarchs let loose a quick succession of bright beams of concentrated magic on the horde, throwing dozens of Changelings at a time flying back over the ramparts. Whilst this went on Remus and Cassius (who had managed to fight of his as-salients) rallied all Human and Equine soldiers to them, gathering enough to form a group of 15 soldiers, who then quickly engaged the nearest Changeling, Unicorns blasting them with their magic, Pegasai and Earth Ponies hitting hard with hoof and teeth, and the humans bearing down with halberds, long swords and falchions. With the last of the party guests away more guards were brought in to deal with the invaders.
But the numbers of Changelings just kept on growing, with each one felled it seemed five more took its place. Again and again hundreds of insectoid beings, their vampiaric fangs bared, came rushing on the stalwart defenders like an unending tsunami of green and black, the more humanoid changelings bearing a variety of weapons, that disturbingly looked more a part of their bodies than any weapon made by hand or magic.
Spyro meanwhile had rushed towards Remus. Ratchet, Sparx (who had just managed to reach Remus a minute earlier), and a large armoured human he didn't reconize who were now back to back, Ratchet clawing at any that came near, the human slicing Changelings left right and center with a gigantic sword and Remus dueling a Changeling humanoid with bulky, intimidating armour seemingly attached to its body and a long-sword extending from its arm where it's hand should be. Spyro let loose a jet of flame on the nearest changeling, consuming it in a ball of fire causing it to roll on the sand of the arena screaming in agony. He didn't do much before one of the guards on the walls shot him with a crossbow bolt.
Spyro rushed to his friends, clawing another changeling in the face, drawing lines of sickly white blood, causing it to pull away, and be met by Ratchet, who had picked up a fallen spear, then ramming it through the Changelings back, killing it instantly.
Turning to Remus Spyro caught him being pushed back by the Changeling commander (as that's what he guessed it was) towards the parapets, dangerously close to the edge. Spyro leaped onto the Changelings back, causing it to cry out in a gravelly, otherworldly voice "EERKA, VU LIK THORN BARNWR!"*
Spyro dug his claws in tight on the Changelings shoulders, and bit down hard on his neck, causing him to rear in pain before Remus charged in and impaled him with his blade.
As the Changeling collapsed to the ground Spyro jumped free from his fallen foe and turned to Remus.
"You okay?"
"Oh you know, doing fine as always" replied Remus.
"Spyro, that Changeling called you Barnwr." said Ratchet "Are they...."
"Yes, I believe they are. But questions will have to wait, right now we've got a battle to win." Turning to an approaching platoon of Changelings he let loose another ball of flame, driving them slowly back as they cowered behind shields that seemed (like their weapons) to be a part of their arms.
Meanwhile the Tribunal fought all the harder as the forces of the Changeling horde pressed down on them, the weaker Changeling Equine soldiers giving way to the stronger, more powerful bi-peds, wielding a variety of vicious, black weapons, including swords, axes, polearms, flails, war hammers, and all armoured in heavy black plate that like their weapons, seemed a part of their bodies. Some even had expert magical talent, throwing green fire balls and blue spears of Lightening at the Tribunal, forcing Celestia to throw up a shield around the three whilst Twilight and Luna kept on fighting.
"Where are they coming from!" Shouted Twilight whilst simultaneously blasting another changeling off the ramparts.
"It looks like most of the hive is here" replied Luna, "and where there's a hive, there's a queen."
As if in answer there came a massive jolt of blue energy from the behind them, its impact on the shield throwing Celestia off balance and nearly loosing focus as the shield flickered on and of repeatedly, like a failing candle in a heavy breeze.
The noise of the blast was so loud it attracted the attention of nearly everyone on the Battlefield, only the Changelings continuing their attack.
Spyro swiftly dispatched another Changeling, catching a glimpse of this new attacker. It seemed like another humanoid Changeling, but far bigger, towering 2 feet over his human foes, his entire, muscled body armoured in dark blue plates, all smooth and subtle, and unlike his brethren, there were no spikes, no signs of deformity, in fact were it not for his skin being the same black hue and his bright blue eyes holding no pupils, this Changeling could be mistaken for a really tall Human Male. His face was concealed behind an enclosed helmet, his soulless eyes glaring underneath it, his mouth un-moving and neutral.
As he slowly approached the Tribunal, an aura of dread began to grip the minds of every non-Changeling on the battlefield, some of the braver ones starting to visibly shake, though they knew not why, and others starting to back away in fear, the sight of this new Changeling too much to bear, even Spyro and the Tribunal felt terrified by the mere presence of this creature......though they knew not why.
Finally he came up to within 5 feet of the Tribunal before Twilight and Luna gathered their courage enough to open fire, Fire and Ice spells both coming together against this new foe, only to be brushed aside with a flick of the wrist, the blast ricocheting back towards their source, throwing all three against the wall as Celestia used her remaining Strength to block the incoming blast.
As they struggled to regain their footing the giant quickly walked over to the fallen Tribunal, green fire seemingly bursting from his finger tips. Waving this hand in one motion, the fire transformed into a massive, black two handed Sword, and with his other hand he summoned chains to bind the three Princesses to the wall. Bringing this weapon down near the Tribunal, he looked as though he was about to deliver the final blow......but instead he called out to Spyro.
"Barnwr! Surrender yourself willingly to me, or the Royal line of Equestria ends tonight!"
Spyro unfurled his wings and flew straight for the Giant, despite his friends protests, stopping 4 feet above him. "You're bluffing. Kill them and you throw all nature out of balance, or don't you know that?"
"I do, I just wanted your attention Barnwr."
"The names Spyro, and if you don't want to become Ant Flambe I suggest you and your army leave, before my Kin come back."
"They won't come, Spyro." Drawing out his free hand he brought forth another ball of blue fire, which quickly grew in size and intensity until the center formed into something akin to a rippling pool. Reflected in this pool of flame was reflected Nerevor, bound and gagged inside a cave Spyro did not recongnize, certainly not the Caverns beneath the castle, struggling in vain against his bonds, which were made up of some kind of green slime, and surrounding him all the other Dragons bound in the same way, and standing over them, Changelings in the form of Dragons.
"I now repeat my demands Spyro. Come with me, or watch your people die."