Help! I'm not a changeling!
Chapter 12: "Why do I always like to make an flashy entrance?"
Edited by Anonymous 0. I sorta have a voice in my head. It tells me to behead stuffy bearded animals. Can't imagine why that is bad.

-------------------------------> "F.I.R.E." Mauricio <----------------------------------------

_MISSION STATUS: ONGOING_
_OBJECTIVE: HARVEST LOVE FROM HAKARIK VILLAGE_
_SIDE OBJECTIVE: MULTIPLE OBJECTIVES DETECTED. ANALYZING...
A) UNDERTAKE THE DUTY OF KNOWING YOUR SQUAD_
B) INTERACT WITH THE CURRENT SQUAD LEADING THE HARVESTING ASSIGNMENT OF HAKARIK VILLAGE. SPEAK WITH SABER RANK BEAK AND ACKNOWLEDGE THE EXTRACTION_
C) KEEP YOUR PROFILES AND DISGUISES UP AT ALL TIMES AND DON'T BE DISCOVERED. TRACK DOWN AND ERASE ANY RELEVANT MEMORY OF ANY SUSPECT AWARE OF YOUR TRUE PRESENCE. KEEP IT SIMPLE_
D) ???_

_CURRENT LOCATION: STANDBY... RECON SUCCESSFUL_
(_V.I.C._) SQUAD LEADER, CHANGELING "F.I.R.E.", LESS THAN 350 METERS AWAY FROM THE VILLAGE_
SGT. CHANGELING "Boa Hunt", 5 METERS RIGHT TO LEADER'S POSITION_
CPL. CHANGELING "Cabin Platinum" 1.2 METERS LEFT TO LEADER'S POSITION_
PVT. CHANGELING "Scarlet Fall" 2.5 METERS DOWN FROM LEADER'S POSITION_
STANDING BY FOR NEW INFORMATION_
... CURRENT TEAMMATE "Boa" IS GLARING AT ME WITH-

"The Maker is my witness, if you don't shut up Scarlet, I'll try out my amazing, but somewhat new, sewing abilities to shut that trap of yours!" shouted Boa as he coldly glared at poor Scarlet for acquiring new information for her next report back at the hive. Looking back from where I was sitting, I idly stared at the newfound and beautiful background moving along with the train's speed.

Colorful mountains in the distance, vivid landscapes shifting ever so often below the mountainside gaze, and the constant view of clouds taking all sorts of forms from animals to inanimate objects, I perceived what my eyes could ever imagine as nothing more than a perfect, breath-taking sight for sore eyes. The restless movement of the background, combined with the hot wind blowing from one of the open windows of the train, was more than enough to make me sleep effortlessly on one of the seats and wait for the train to arrive towards our next destination.

That said, it could happen at any given moment if it weren't for my squad's current situation.

Letting out a small, but concerned whine, I rubbed the back of my head slowly; watching my new squad bicker like a bunch of children forced on sharing seats was something that added some stress to, well, everything. I sighed poorly and tried to intervene, but it was too late before I could say anything on the matter.

"But Boa! You know I need this! What happens if I don't pick on every possible information?" Scarlet, a female changeling from my squad, whined as she pressed her hooves on her head and started to rock back and forth, concerned over little details that no one but apparently her, happen to care about. "Chrysalis's knows what will they do to me if I miss something! I can't a single detail escape from my grasp. I simply can't!"

"Oh, don't worry. There is a solution to that." responded Boa with an unsettling tone, "It's called, 'Doing nothing', a perfect strategy from moi perfect guide to achieve great things. Let others do the work for you, and one day they will at your door. It's fool proof!" he chimed with a hoof under his chin. Looking at the couple argue over something that was supposed to happen much later on, made me think if they actually took things seriously from time to time, or they were simply morons with their minds going places others wouldn't appreciate very much. But that being said...

I can't express myself saying that I was quite fond of the idea of having to make a report every time we came from a mission, but hey, it makes sense in the end. Checking up on the other changeling's work was ideal if you wanted to keep everything within reach and collected. But still, kinda boring.

"I think I saw a butterfly." said the last member of my squad as he gazed upon the window with an indescribable expression. Moving his head sharply, he took a sad expression all of the sudden, "Oh no! The butterfly died! I even gave it a name!"

"Well, tough luck Cabin, it wasn't going to survive anyway." replied Boa as he looked over Cabin's expression and explained without any remorse. "It is better dead than it was alive."

"Boa, I know Cabin can be a bit of a airhead- Sorry, a complete airhead from time to time, but would you please consider somepony's feelings before talking?"

Cabin added something like 'Oh, nevermind. It was dead already.', but Boa's voice ruled over Cabin's and it was barely understandable.

"Fine, but you know how I like to answer someone and have no consequences about it. And before anything else, stop what you are doing. You are not taking every simple detail on the reports because that will make me do work, which I don't want."

"I can't!" she quivered as she grabbed her head and it shook with fear. Boa could be seen annoyed by this, and was about get to another point, but I then intervened.

"Alright, both of you, knock it off." I stated, grabbing the attention of both changelings, "There is plenty of time before the train reaches the town, so try to not ripping each other's throat until then, okay?"

Both of them stared at me with worry, and hesitation, trying not to make a fool out of themselves right in front me if I may guess, as their minds tried to make this happen.

"Yeah, sure. I'll be more gentle next time." whispered Boa as he crossed his front hooves and laid back on the back seats, "Tell me if anything happens."

"Got it." I added. Looking back at Scarlet, she fidgeted with her hooves in the air and tried to respond, but was too nervous to say anything, "And Scarlet," the changeling flinched at my call, "You don't need to be so shy around me. I don't bite, and I don't plan on starting now. You said it yourself, right? We are all in this."

"I know... but we already talked about this, back at the hive. That chat is over, this is the real me. A major academy nerd who enjoys working!" Crude, but relevant to what she explained to me earlier. "And also, I get nervous around others when it comes down to a mission. Not forgetting to mention, you are practically much more famous, interesting and important than me. I can't help but... feel like that, especially around somepony like you." Again, they weren't so subtle about their feelings, but I suppose they aren't very careful about expressing concern with each other. Still, I can't seem to grasp that whole thing about me being more important than me.

"I doubt that I'm more important Scarlet." I dismissed her statement, with a hoof in front of me. "Again, we are all on this together. Everyone is practically family. So stop from stepping down your self-esteem and take it a bit easier-"

"I have to step up." She cut me off, catching me off guard. "I can't drag you down and make you look more..." Scarlet seemed to trail off, looking for the right adjective in the situation.

"Again, I'm not that all mighty changeling just because of some rumors spreading around." I insisted, yawning all of the sudden.

"And took wing and training under the orders of the retired Commander Drive, former Silent Sword member, right?"

"A-am I?" she stuttered at my remark. Shaking a little, she seemed to become suddenly shy again. Not wanting to toy with her anxiety anymore, I took a breath in and sighed.

"No Scarlet. You are right. I, indeed, faced Chrysalis in a way more than one." Even if that didn't go well. Besides, I was very lucky to avoid punishment if that seemed to be something right down stupid.

"See? I can't let your reputation be stained by my incompetence!" she went full circle and spouted words of inspiration- more to herself than me, honestly- without any warning. "I have to- no, I need to become a better changeling to live up to your expectations!"

"There are NO expectations! Just do what you do best and guide me through the mission..." I thought to myself, not having the courage to speak up. I could, but she would insist on thinking me as an idol and, in all honesty, my mind was rather troubled from stress. I'm looking forward to complete my first duty, not to expect others to do things to please me.

"Not me!" intervened Boa, holding a hoof from his place towards the ceiling from where we could see, "I'm just happy to have somepony capable of doing things right for once! And strong too. Less work for to me to do."

I glared with both relief and mild annoyance at Boa's hoof as it slowly descended back to its owner place. Erasing any trace of my glare, I looked back at Scarlet once more, holding a hoof in front of me.

"Look," I commanded with the right tone, "I don't know what you may have heard about me, but you should probably just give it up. I'm not that superstar everyone thinks I am."

"Nonsense!" Scarlet meekly shouted, holding a hoof close to her mouth and almost gasping. Almost is the key word here. Her eyes drifted from me and looked down to the ground in cold disbelief. That is, until a light bulb appeared on top of her head. And crashed forth to her left, vanishing just like it appeared. "No... Boa. It must be him! He must be a bad influence on you! He needs to learn this from my hoof!"

Before I could even continue my sentence, Scarlet leaped from my place with a huge momentum, landing where he was and beating the heck out of whatever Boa must be made of. Grunts of pain could be heard across the train room, several hoof colliding with the flesh of Boa's helpless body. At least, that is what should be heard.

I dared not to look at the massacre taking its place, and rather just lean my head towards the seat where Scarlet was and rested there, hearing what could be transpiring back there. I remained there in shock, as the hits could be heard like a brick hitting the pavement of a street 5 feet away from anyone. It sounded constant and painful, if the grunts were any indication.

But just as it began, it suddenly stopped. Boa's voice was silenced, and the sounds of something being dragged across the floor took place across the room. Remaining still as the sounds echoed through the wagon, there was sudden noise which suggested that a door opened. One could only imagine what she did. What was she thinking astounds- no, terrifies me, but it also gave me a good idea who not to mess with or give any bright ideas. Then again, Boa could be faking it?

Hmm, let's say it's best if I don't make her mad. For everyone's sake, especially mine.

The door closed. I could hear muffled noises behind the metal door, and dared to look at what was happening behind me.

It looked like someone had a chaotic battle right next to me and used everything in their arsenal to make the most damage possible. Looking astonished, sweat began to form on my neck as a sense of dread loomed over me. I gulped, fearing that if Scarlet could that to his teammate, then I might actually feel pity for the enemy.

"Oh, they are doing friendship punches! So adorable!" said Cabin, speaking once again and letting me know what was on his mind. I couldn't help but shudder a bit, regarding the most recent event. "It has been a while since Small Left gave Boca a friendship punch!"

"... Friendship punch?" I asked, baffled at Cabin's innocent commentary. I looked at the door, reluctant of their current relationship, but oddly relaxed knowing it wasn't the first time.

"Yeah, because Small Left likes to work a lot, Boca usually gives her a lot of good vibes and raise her mood all day!" He chimed, unaware of the actual danger this presented. "Although, I can't understand why they always like to leave me alone after they play together. I wish I could play too."

"Well, it's best if you don't." I remarked, lifting my eyebrow, questioning what I had yet to see, "It looks like it hurts a lot."

"Oh, don't worry! If it hurt, Boca wouldn't go to sleep so fast! And that's because I know how strong she is!"

"Oh. Well, that's weird." he revealed, seeing how his simple mind couldn't wrap up the actual consequences of... that. Heck, he can't remember their names correctly. That is why he pronounces everyone's name in a similar way, but always missing something. Lucky for him, Five does sound a little like Fire and it sounds like nice code-name, so I can't complain about his naive conscience taking control.

"Eh... don't worry Cabin." I added, attracting his attention somehow, "I'm sure they know what they are doing. I could be wrong. You could be right."

"Yay!" he lifted both front hooves and shook them with happiness, "I did good! Thanks Five! You are my new great friend!"

"Now, if you excuse me, I'm going to watch the movie again." Cabin then proceeded to look outside and stare at the scenery. If this train had more passengers on board, I can't imagine what kind of chaos it could take place. I shiver once more, trying to forget what just happened. If I was lucky, this mission might actually go smooth without any casualties.

How did I ended up with them? Most important of all, why did I took the mantle of a broken squad when they had yet to heal from their past wounds?

------------------------------> "F.I.R.E." Mauricio, 2 hours earlier<---------------------------------

"And this, is your squad!" explained the changeling scout, as he guided me to my new team. "I hope you four can get along!"

Taking his brief moment, his eyes looking concerned about something, he looked back and forth, almost expecting something to show up. Taking a good view of the situation, he eagerly left and shouted a good luck before leaving the scene.

"Um, hi?" I called out reluctantly at the three changelings before me, unsure of what to do.

Now, I would be lying if I said that I expected my new squad to be somewhat unique and strong, which it is what I got, don't get any funny ideas. But I never expected to see... well, this.

"Hello sir! It is a great honor to finally meet you!" said the single female standing out of my group. I knew this because of the curves and body types I have learned around the hive. It's not hard to miss, especially if it is a high pitched voice. "My name is Scarlet Fall, but you can call me whatever you want!"

'Scarlet' then proceeded to take my hoof and shake it firmly, much to my surprise. Taking a good look at her appearance, I immediately noticed the medium, knotted-style red hair trend falling out of her right side, making honor to the name itself and the obvious blue eyes everyone in the hive had. Her body wasn't anything out of the extraordinaire, a bit bigger on the rump, but that was it. However, I did notice a pair of glasses poking out of the blue, leather saddlebag she was carrying around that had autumn leaf image on the front. I could only assume they were for show, but who knows. Anything can happen at this point.

"Uh, not so sure about the honor part, but it is nice to meet you." She let go of my hoof and gestured a welcome sign at her other friends, "I'm Fire, nice to make your acquaintance, um-"

"Yes buddy. We know who you are." interrupted the yellow haired changeling, wearing short styled cut, despite the rough look he imposed at first glance. "Fire The Rose-Changeling, Jade's sight, the V.I.C., the meteor-shower guest, the sole survivor of the Rose Hive. You are pretty famous around here."

Just like Scarlet, Boa's body didn't stand out much, but it had its fair share of experiences judging by the rough looking exterior, seemingly like dried scales. A cut or two could be seen from here to there, but it wasn't much of a showoff to be honest. They were small scars which required a fledged look at it to notice them. However, it wasn't unusual around here, taking into account the situation we are constantly living.

"Boa Hunt. But most of my friends call me Boa, so feel free to call me that." 'Boa' gestured a military hoof movement, which my brother used to do back when I was still a human. I remember that meaning a hello gesture, but it could be a something else here. I could ask him, but that would be later. And what does V.I.C. stand for? Very Important Changeling?

And last, but not least, was the big guy out of the three. No, seriously, he had a bigger body structure of all three changeling. I even felt a little intimidated by his stature, but knowing we were on the same boat, I felt a wave of relief over me.

I started to notice his physical appearance more, taking notes of little details about him. He had no hair save for the colorless scale popping from the back of his head, forming like a pike and aiming down to his body, not leaving the center once. The changeling, similar to Boa, had small scars on him, but due to his size, they seemed to be more than you could chew, giving away a sense of fortitude, someone who doesn't go down that easily. It made think twice about provoking him with small comedy.

Standing still, I shifted a little from where I stood and gestured a greeting hoof, looking right into his eyes with new found confidence.

"You may know me already, but I'm Fire." I assured my pose and straightened my hoof even farther into the changeling, "Nice to meet you."

"Hello!" chimed the big changeling, wearing a unusual high pitched voice that came out of a voice modifier. No, wait, more like forcing a guy's voice to be heard with a higher pitch. "My friends call me Cabin. Are you my new friend?"

Taken back by new voice, I shook it off moments later and focused on his question.

"Well," I asserted with confidence, "If you we all work together and help each other out, I'm sure we can be very good friends."

'Cabin' didn't answer back. He simply looked at my hoof with wonder and stared at it. Confused by this, I called the big guy again.

He shook his head and started to focus on me, almost as if he got distracted by something.

"Um, yes." he replied with a weird tone, waiting a few seconds before answering again, "I am okay."

"Uh, that's great." I replied. Much to dismay, he made things a little odd, more than I would like.

"Nice to meet you Five!" he incorrectly responded as he called out my new name wrong.

"Um, Cabin," I corrected reluctantly, staring at him with concern, "My name is not Five, it's pronounced Fire."

"Yes, I heard your name is Five." the big changeling responded once again, saying my name wrong for a second time. "Mine is Cabin!"

"No, ugh, it's-" I held my hoof in front of me, popping a fire spell over it, "My name literally means fire."

"Where!?" he spun and looked for an actual 'fire' instead the conversation point. Feeling like something is about to pop, I placed my hooves on the sides of my head and rubbed, trying to get a good sense of when did this get out of control.

Sighing, I let it stay like that and started breathing. Cabin was still looking for a fire, but he soon calmed down and returned to his original position. He noticed me once again, and chimed, "Hello!"

Extending my hoof another time, I remained there for an answer. I waited there for his response once more, realizing he wasn't talking again, surprisingly. Retracting my hoof, I accommodated myself for a second time, hoping to get an answer out of him. Again, he expressed nothing, making this conversation more awkward than it should be.

I looked back at the voice of Scarlet and found her looking at me in a consoling manner.

"Please... um, don't mind Cabin. He tends to be a little..." she waits expectantly, hoping to express what her mind has to say. "Naive would be appropriate."

She shook her head and beamed a small smile, "Not much, but our queen allows him to go with us since we know each for quite some time."

Boa nods in approval, smirking as well, "Cabin may not be bright anymore, but he is one heck of a bull when it comes down to raw strength. Ain't that right, buddy pal friend amigo?"

"I like to think sometimes I'm a centipede." he inexplicably announced as he smiled with innocence, "A lot of legs and lots of walking!"

"Uh, yeah! That's right! You have like 10 legs in each one! Now that is power!" Boa replied, irrelevant to what and where the conversation was supposed to go. "High hoof Cabin!"

Boa lifted his right hoof and Cabin replied, but with brutal force. Boa shrieked in pain and held his highly likely broken hoof, containing himself from shouting. I stared at them like I was watching a video on a odd and weird area of YouTube. Scarlet, who was beside me the whole time, simply sighed and shook her head.

"Guys, please, could you please not make an scene in front of our new leader? We scared enough changelings just to have another incident." Boa kept holding his hoof close to and nodded ever so slightly. Cabin replied with a yes and stood still. Feeling a little uncomfortable, I watched them as Scarlet pull out a small tube from the saddlebag, with a blue substance in it. She then proceeded to apply a blue gel on Boa's leg, mouthing something that sounded like a nag. Boa glared at her, but looked away, hesitating on doing or saying something. Looking to the other side, Cabin remained just like I saw him a bit ago, which, oddly enough, seemed to not move a muscle at all.

And to think I was leading this team. I grew uneasy on the thought alone, but remained determined as the mission went through my mind. Scarlet didn't took too long and and walked in front of me, stopping afterwards.

"Um... sorry you to see that. Boa knows better than to simply test Cabin's strength just to make a point."

"Nor it will be the last." I winced at that comment, and looked at the now pouting Boa, holding his hoof like it was about to fall off. Cabin was still... well, he was not moving at all.

Concerned about the... tiny events that happened in front of me, I reluctantly asked Scarlet a few things. "Does this occur often?"

She tilted her head to one side, pouting and looking at the sky altogether. A small flush of red was barely on her cheeks. "Rarely... but it rarely affects our objective."

She twitched in surprise and smiled with embarrassment. "Oh, yeah. A lot. Sorry, but Cabin doesn't know when to hold back with us. And Boa seems to never learn."

"Fair enough. Would you mind answering a few a questions, just so to fill me in with what I need to know?"

I pondered my choices, and decided to know the most basic at the moment. I could get to know my team better when we are not focused on a mission. So, I asked about them in short to get a good grasp of their abilities. Sounded a bit personal when I thought about it again, but Scarlet didn't seem to mind at all my questions. Answering between the time of service and how they met, it seems that these three go way back before the invasion, not to mention they are quite older than me, putting myself in a more compromising and pressuring position. The town was a scout mission, nothing more, but she explained that in any case of thing going bad- which resulted in her stuttering multiple times and looked adorable doing so- she explained to avoid panicking and focus on solving the problem.

But in any case, as time went by, Boa and Cabin were called and started to give specific details on the strengths and weakness of each one.

Cabin Platinum- That last name reminds me of something, not sure what-, being the strongest of the four, was brute force and offensive magic. His power was something to reckon, as Scarlet pointed out that it more than three changeling to compare his fortitude. It was astonishing, explained the mare in her words. But his mental capacity was... limited. And somehow, he didn't mind being called 'Slow thinker' or 'Dumb' by Boa's words. By the looks of it, Scarlet kept Boa in his place when this things happened.

However, since he was not quite bright, a single order or a good persuasion could make him an easy target or an excellent distraction if needed. I really, really hoped that wasn't needed.

Boa Hunt was a persuasive fellow, as well as charmer. His speed and diplomacy would come in handy when things got complicated or I needed a hand persuading. However, his anger tends to get the better of him very rarely when he sees his friends being harassed, bullied, or anything revolving us getting hurt when it becomes very aggressive. It's a downside that could turn around make things really complicated, so he is not sent on aggressive or dangerous mission due to that small factor.

Also, I would like to add, he calls himself a mares' man, but wow. That jab Scarlet did right there and then... wow. Pack-a-punch in small packages, huh?

Scarlet Fall, just like she introduced herself, was the analytical expertise on the group. Her mind may be a somewhat of an ass kisser when it came down to status and rank, but don't get cocky around her. She was presented as a great thinker and tactical adviser. Scarlet could give great advice and wisdom upon the choices I could take if required. Just ask something and she will explain anything you need to know or all you could possibly at the time.

The Private Fall even gave me a profile of herself as requisite to explain things about herself if she couldn't keep her composure. That presented a big hole on her- NO WAIT, STOP RIGHT HENTAI SCUM. CONTEXT.

Anyways, she might be tough at times, but gets easily overwhelmed if the situation if looking grim, or whenever she is threatened by a mob or someone pushing her around. This causes her to lose her stand and feel either overwhelmed or frustrated by stress or any negative emotion.

Oh, right. Forgot about that. If changelings absorb too much negative emotions, it is hazardous to our health. It doesn't kill us immediately, but it's like a toxin, slowly coursing in our blood. If it not treated by a healer/companion or handled with determination by one's will, it could to death.

So, in short, you get someone mad or feeling really negative towards any changeling and it can die of literal looks. Yes, you CAN die from looks. Shucks. Earth could use a little of that.

And last, that leaves me as leader and the stronghold of the squad. If I remember correctly back when I was with the lieutenant, Leut pulled some strings along the way, pointing me as leader in a group of veterans (Or idiots that somehow lasted this long) in my hands.

All of this came from the training I took from recognized changelings in the hive and the status that goes around me like planets and its sun. She slipped some vital information around the hive and detailed me as a famous leader, without my consent of what to add about me. I mean, thank you, it's a nice gesture to make me feel special, but this is ALL wrong. And seeing how I can get out of this, I really can't complain, or else they will suspect that I'm-

Wait, why was I was doing all this? Oh, right. I was bored. Maybe I did deserved this. But I'm a squad leader now, can't really go back to anywhere at all. I took this chance, I must keep going after all. Ah, I was lost in thought. Focus Mauricio. What was she saying?

"Come again?" I asked, trying to grasp the reality around me after my train of thought. "I didn't understand that last thing you said."

"Um, I said... if you have any more questions, feel free to ask." she repeated, somewhat nervous, "After all, we can't go around walk mindlessly."

"True, true." I acknowledged, raising my hoof just below my chin. I tried coming up with more question, but a nearby changeling flew down to us and told us that it was time to move. The train was ready for us, and we needed to leave, now. "Thanks bud."

Flying away in approval, we were left on our own again. Looking at my new group carefully, I felt somewhat confident that we had more than enough to accomplish great things. All it was needed, was a little push or motivation to make things happen. I was confident about this.

"I guess the questions can be asked later, once we are at the train." Looking at each one of them, I breathed in, feeling reinvigorating pride and confidence afterwards. Walking towards the location we were ordered, I saw behind me the three of them following me. I smiled, feeling safe. "I'm counting on you guys."

"Okay Five! Just call me if you need me, okay?" Cabin stated, looking confident.

"Right behind ya, Fire. Glad to know somepony who gets things done." added Boa as he smirked.

"Don't worry Fire. You can count on us for anything." Scarlet chimed, feeling satisfied and secure of herself. "Even I may look like somepony else in the train, don't doubt to call or ask us anything."

Even with all this energy coming out, I couldn't help but feel a little weirded out. It was like I knew them for a long time, but yet I never met them before. Do they remind me of someone I know? Confused by this, I expressed openly to them about it. Boa and Cabin said nothing, but smiled instead. Scarlet spoke up.

"While it's true that we just met, there is something to every changeling. Be it from the same hive or not, it doesn't matter. We are all in this. It may be my mind playing tricks on me, but," she paused and smiled with grace, "I have a feeling we will get along just fine."

--------------------------> "F.I.R.E." Mauricio, back at the train <-----------------------------

In all honestly, I really can't make heads or tail about these three, but if they have gone like this before, I have them now. It may be tiring, troublesome if possible, but I... I can't simply back down from what I asked for. I need to do this.

Before I could continue my inner monologue, the door opened once again and Scarlet entered the room once more with a goofy expression on her lips.

"Good. I have a few questions to ask you." One, are you sure you did not punch him to death, and second, how do I not make you angry? I gotta know man. "It's obvious we are taking disguises when we need to. Until then, I just want a debriefing and a review of names, ID's, and forms we are using before we get there. We have about 25 minutes or so before arriving. Also, I need a check on the each general tribe and race. My memory is getting dull."

It was a big lie. I knew about the three races, but making sure you know everything about it can save you a lot of trouble. She moved from the back of the train and head towards me, nodding at my request. Scarlet sat in the seat in front of me and and started digging through her bag.

"Okay, where is the chart... I know it is here- Oh, the map. This is better. See this?" she pointed two dots and many more connected through red lines, spreading across the continent of what I believe is Equestria. "This is where are going. It's not far, but it's not closer either. It's a two way trip. Now, where did I put the... Ah! Here we go." she pulled out a chart that I think contained information about the mission, "As you may already know, we are splitting up the squad into the three races known in Equestria."

"Correct. Since our last member left, we have been reduced to three, using each type by each changeling's command. So far, I have using the unicorn race, meanwhile Cabin has taken the earth pony and Boa taking the last as expected. Each race possesses a unique set of traits that makes one another dependable from time to time." she explained, holding in her hoof a paper. If she was reading, it certainly didn't look like it. Also, is the last member, the former leader, that left the group before me? Guess it doesn't really matter. "Making sure we don't away each other by looking suspicious, we have made each disguise similar looking to one another to make it look like a family. Cabin is my cousin, and Boa is my brother. Despite what it may look like, having a different kind of attributes to one's appearance is far more common when a pony of one tribe mates with a different tribe, especially when each parent holds a bloodline from another tribe itself, making the offspring more variable."

"Interesting. One could have unicorn blood while looking like a Pegasus, and vice versa the three ways." I acknowledged as I set my mind to keep this in the memory banks for sure. However, Scarlet was having none of it.

"Oh, this? No no no, it's something I usually do." I explained, dismissing her thought with a wave of my hoof.

"Something like that." I carefully replied. "The information usually gets past me and I always end up forgetting something that might be crucial. I repeat to myself those to make them look easier to understand. Sometimes I don't even do it."

"Well, it is common knowledge, but everypony has its ways of comprehending." Thank you, Lord of Luck.

"Very well. What else you got?" I commanded lazily, placing one hoof under my mouth and another resting on my lap.

"We have more in store. Since we have only to recollect the love harvested from the village, we will only use the disguises once we get there. The less love we use, the better for everypony. Now, while we use magic to communicate with each other, we are aware of your situation and magic lock-down you suffered during the meteor event. That is why the hive has devised a necklace especially made for you, in order to speak freely with any of us at anytime you need to, as well as for us too." She gave me a plain, silver looking necklace to and allowed me to observe it closely. It had some engraved letters on it, which it could mean magic written in some changeling language. Magic runes, so to say. I kept looking at the necklace with passion until a cough brought me to earth. "You okay Sir? You seemed... distracted."

"I'm fine," I expressed with confidence, trying to impose a recollected character, "It's just that... well, it has been a while I used one of these."

"Oh, right. You had a previous connection hive, but then you became a sole survivor and had no means to remove it. Therefore, you used communication necklace in order to speak freely."

"Not quite, but yes. You got the basic rundown." I easily responded as Scarlet began forming weird faces, but she suddenly sneezed, earning a 'Bless you' response from me. Thanking me for that gesture, Scarlet wiped her nose and focused on me.

"The necklace can be shaped into a form or figure you want." I glanced at her with piqued curiosity, "We have the default look of the necklace, making it look like we are a family who shares jewelry, but since you are going to create a new pony from scratch, it can be dismissed if it has a different look or shape by explaining to anypony who asks that it's custom made. Not a whole lie, but these ponies eat anything that doesn't look very complex."

Scarlet grinned from to side to side, aware of any possible outcome that could possibly take place, "Luckily, it was made by the former Silent Sword member, Drive and current member Knife 'Emerald'."

"I need to be to date with every possible information in hoof. It gives me an edge, and a false sense of security." Okay...

"Right. You said it before." I closed my eye for a second "I didn't need to know that last part, but if it makes you more comfortable with me, I don't mind. Keep it up."

"Correctly. These two changeling appear to have a connection with you, which it could easily explain the dedication they placed into these necklaces. Especially yours, obviously." Oh, dang. Nice. I gotta thank them later. And add a little something to match my personality. I hope. "Given at any given time, once again, they work like hive communications, so you might feel a little headache the first time you use it since you have been disconnected for quite some time."

"Ahem." she cleared her throat and kept going, "Just remember. The necklace can be morphed in any shape you desire. Just call out the order, and we will give it a rundown of any form you like the most."

"Quite. However, you will be limited to speaking only as the necklace is difficult to forge, let alone have the same qualities as a hive channel. Any other sense will be restricted for the moment. Also, try not to stray to far from us. It can be very useful, but every trait has its limits. If you leave the village, there is little chance for anypony to speak to you if required. Outside of the village, it is unknown how far it can go, but it won't be needed to know for now. Other than that, you are good to go." Scarlet shifted his papers and moved a little to sit more lady like.

"Taking the ID term into our hooves, I will be taking the form of a red colored unicorn with yellow eyes, blue glasses and black hair, under the tag of 'Crimson Autumn', daughter of Flower Spring and Technical Base, originated from Baltimare, with a 33 years old look. The only things that would change into my disguise would be the colors of my body. As far the others, Corporal Cabin will shape into an earth pony. He will have blue navy fur, blue-cyan eyes and yellow hair. No accessories will be required for him, as he prefers to stay more to himself. Clever, but risky. His alias will be something similar, but varying as well. He will be known as Log Cabin, son of Wood Pecker and Sky Rise, originated from Baltimore as well, 2 years younger than Crimson."

"I like it because I still get to keep my name." Cabin suddenly spoke up, alarming both of us. "I liked the part where she said I was blue. I like blue. It's pretty."

"Yes... Jaja, I can see how it relates." I obviously stated as I tried to avoid laughing at his sudden outburst. Scarlet had none of it, solely focusing on the papers held in her magic grasp.

I twisted my head slowly, leaving Cabin back to his thoughts and focusing on the female changeling in front of me, "And last but not least, Boa."

"Yes. Precisely as you say, Sergeant Boa will be taking the form of a green furred pegasus, wearing blue eyes like Cabin and black hair like me, except he has white stripes on it. He will be wearing small, red bandana on his left hoof as accessory. Despite our current forms, Boa likes to his scars untouched and show them off to the," she gestured a 'quote on quote' hoof movement, earning a small smile from me, "Ladies." she looked annoyed, to say the least. Focusing back to the topic at hoof, she spoke again "His parents will be the same as mine, as they earned a possible link with the ponies pointing out we look alike. In short words, he will be my brother. Boa will be known as Osiris Meadow."

"Of course. Every possibility of a connection will be used to reinforce our bond as a normal pony family."

"We can't use the 'family trip' excuse, as it would raise suspicions on the town folks due to our constant 'visits'. Even they are not that gullible. There are many other excuses to use, but there is one who always get them biting the dust. We shall be known for 'stopping by for the great food they serve around here'. Spicy food, if I may add. Good stuff." she laughed a little and changed a couple of papers. "Our small family is connected to Canterlot when one of our ancestors found themselves establishing themselves with an antique shop, selling wares from city to city. Another excuse for us to examine if our current lie wears down. Of course, we would need to shape a few things, but saying we don't usually speak to other ponies outside of family seems to work fine."

"Even the ancestors! Color me surprised Scarlet, that is actually amazing." I praised, earning a small blush from her. She shifted from her spot and tried to hide her face behind the papers. Emphasis on 'tried'.

"Wait, don't tell me..." I scanned her with intrigue as she felt embarrassed under my gaze. Observing her for a few moments, I quickly realized who was in charge of everything. "No way... You?"

"Uh... I may have suggested something when we first created this ponification." she adamantly lied, trying to ignore the feverish blush crawling all over her face.

"Well... I did say I was the thinker of the group and... well... my cutie mark resembles a typing machine and a quill, so it's not that far-fledged." Wait a second, a cutie mark?

"Well, no and yes. Again, basic knowledge but... eh, I like explaining." she closed her eyes and forgot about her recent embarrassment. "Now that you mention it, I forgot to explain the cutie mark and each personality. Taking into account my created personality, I am malevolent unicorn, who only speaks to those who intrigue me. But deep down, I'm afraid to show my true colors, making Crimson somepony... tsundere, if I'm not wrong. Fun from time to time though. A typewriter and a red quill with a yellow bone adjourns the unicorn's cutie mark. Next is Sergeant Boa.

Rubbing her eyes slowly and yawning, she spoke again, "He will take the form of a cheeky pegasus, one who likes to hunt for single mares and strike a friendly conversation. Of course, Osiris Meadow doesn't like relationships, he prefers one night stands. But if you talk bad things about his family, he will get angry."

I stared at Scarlet, lost in thought, "But isn't that very similar to who Boa is? I mean, surely, it spice things up, but it doesn't really help in some ways."

The female changeling simply chuckled, making me confused. "Nice point. But Boa has more than 5 years of experience when it comes down to acting. He pretends to be upset, when in all reality, he is rather enjoying seeing the ponies squirm under a net of lies."

"We never asked for this." She muttered in a heavy, angered tone, surprising me all of the sudden. Scarlet dropped her act in a flash, lowering her ears, her piercing gaze growling, erasing any trace of whatever confidence she had gathered and throw it out the window. "Oh my gosh, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to snap like that!"

"It's... fine." I assured, leaning backwards for a few moments, "I shouldn't talk like that. You are... having quite a rough time. I have no place to say stuff like that."

Scarlet let out an astonished gasp and looked away probably feeling bad at her breaking moment, but somewhere between this conversation, at some point, I hurt her. My words poked something that was still not meant to be touched yet. I felt horrible; felt that I should be aware of my words by the next time I open my mouth.

"Don't.... worry. It must have slipped... Besides, you have to get adjusted to our hive once again, not to mention that you are limited on options. And... well, I don't need to tell what YOU have been through. We had it bad, but you? You lost everything."

"Your hive, your other friends, your queen, everything. And what could you do about it?"

"... Nothing." I stated, looking at my hoof in a depressed manner. "I couldn't do anything."

Gazing my hoof, I used whatever memories I had from my previous life to recall what a hand looked. It wasn't hard to put it that way, but it is just a reminder of those things that I'll never have the chance to see again. A wave of depression rushed to my blood, making me feel nauseous, horrible, and mostly regret for those rights I once had. Now, they are blurring pictures to hang on the wall, reminding me of the things I had passion about, the small or big things that made smile or frown. Those little details that, despite not looking in a great way, they were right in my reach. Yanked before anything made sense, I was thrown into this... reality I am living right now. Even if things seemed to look dim at some times, they were still out for me. I had something.

I grasped Scarlet's bag that was dropped right next to me after she showed me the chart. Staring at the logo on top of it, I wondered what happened in the split seconds from my life as human before assuming the form of a changeling in this... mysterious world. My memory was unscratched somehow, and allowed me to recall the event frame by frame.

"What happened back then..." I whispered to myself, pondering how exactly I arrived to a place some different and similar at the same time. I knew that Scarlet was giving me a concerned look, but I ignored her, focusing on my thoughts once they were pointed out, "It's so unreal. What exactly transpired back there?"

I gave a displeased grunt as I dropped the bag carefully back where it was. "Sir Fire..."

I remained static, stoic of my current situation, "I may be your leader now, but I'm your friend now. There is no need to call me so formally."

"Protocol won't save your life." I grunted with a hiss, "It maintains order, I am aware of that. But with me? There is no need to act so formal. Act casually like you naturally do and we will do more than fine."

She kept her words to herself and remained silent. Giving myself a better look at her, she looked conflicted, aware of the both sides of the coin. If her expression was any indication, she was not sure what to follow. My orders, or the orders she has been following for her entire life. And in all retrospective, it was obvious who she was going to obey. And yet, there is a part of me that hoped she would listen to me.

But alas, that could be resolved later. I dismissed her actions and told her to remain calm. She has been in this far more than I have, I should actually follow some of her advice for once. Then a thought struck me. What about Cabin? Is he friendly enough, does he...

"Scarlet, I need to know something else. A couple of things actually." her ears perked and gained her attention to me. "Cabin is naturally well known in the village for his innocent and sweet, yet tough pony ID, but how far do they trust him? Can we keep it up even I show up?"

Scarlet looked at his friend for a moment, before giving a heartwarming smile and looking back at the papers.

"Cabin has already gained the trust of the town-folks by being himself. That's a fact. We planned on changing that, but Cabin refused, much to our surprise. In any case, it was a win-win scenario since they knew the Cabin we know, leaving no trace of any suspicion by the time it rose."

"Like stated before, you are family of the group we are. The background can be created at any given time and even a name." I raised my hoof, but she protested and nudged to keep quiet for now, "These ponies trust Cabin enough to give him a full access to the mayor's house. If they see you with us or him, they will notice, that is natural, but it won't raise suspicions. Quite the contrary, you will be received with open arms."

I sighed it relief. Well, that is one thing down and not to worry about. I leaned back and relaxed on the seat for a few moments. Having my nerves calmed down helped a lot, because I sometimes to panic when I'm really nervous. And not just average nervous. I mean nervous like saying that the girl you were last night was actually a dude or a chick (I still don't get that name) came to you weeks later and said 'Hey, guess what? You are going to be a father!'

But Scarlet pointed out something that had not occurred to me so far. What was I going to be? An earth pony? A unicorn? A pegasus? What color shades should I wear? Accessory or not? Scars visible or hidden? That and more invaded my thoughts.

I knew the rest could be made up, but when it came down to creating something from scratch, I was either really good at it or absolutely unlucky. Was I willing to take the risk? No, of course not. Luckily, I have the answer right in front of me.

She seemed confused at first, not to mention flustered by the sudden question. "Uh.... sure. What's on your mind?"

"Regarding the necklace aside, I need an ID of somepony. Right now, I'm empty on ideas and I could use a bit of your help." She sighed and seemed... disappointed? I guess she was hoping for something more trivial. "Do you have anything on you that I could use?"

"I would love to, but last week, we began to run out of ideas and potential substitutes. I have nothing on me to aid you." Well, that seems rather troubling. Awfully troubling. "But we have right now... 3 minutes until our destination... Crud."

AY CHIMAMA HUETU MADRE. This is not good. Panic was starting to flood once again, until I heard a familiar voice echo in my mind.

"Mauricio! What are you doing? Is a simple trial going to stop you? No! You have a brother as a writer and have helped many times! You have faced many adversities and if you think a simple challenge is going to stop you, then think again. You can do this. Just. Focus.'

Alright... focus... who was the last guy you talked about? Have any video game names or info that I could use? Think... think...

"Sir Fir- I mean, Fire, are you okay?" I ignored her questions and frowned deeper, lost in thought.

I could maybe... no, that would be copy strike related. How about- Nah, too cheesy. Or maybe if I-

"What!?" I shouted, leaving my spot and standing in the middle of the wagon. Scarlet looked concerned, but I paid little attention to her. Looking at my options, I saw the door where Boa was currently held and opening. Well, at least he is in disguise now. Just like Scarlet sai- Wait. That is a wagon full of supplies? Does that mean... AJA!

I ran to the door where he was, and heard him complain about his beating being a little harder than before. I hurried Boa out of the room and he gave me a puzzled expression. Looking back, I saw everyone changing into their respective disguises. Take a quick glances at the colors and appearances, I had a brilliant idea. Holding my necklace close to me, I put it on and closed the door. For once, panicking helped. Thank you whatever deities out there for this chance. Time to shine.

"Crimson!" an older earth pony stallion with grey and black mane, wearing a white navy hat and a white fur greeted the mare with high spirits. Scarlet Fall, more known as Crimson Autumn to them, walked up to him and greeted the fellow. He smiled and took notice of her 'relatives' behind her. "It's so nice to see you again!"

"The pleasure is mine, Iron Mallet. Though I did not expect you to greet us like this." Her relatives closed in and stood next to her. "I assume you have something that involves us, right?"

The old stallion chuckled at the sight and soften his stare, "Oh Crimson, still direct to the point as ever. You don't seem to be changing, nor aging either. You must have a really good diet and exercise! Tell me, what's your secret?"

Boa Hunt, more known as Osiris Meadow to everypony around the village, intervened. "Well, I doubt my sister could even get a stallion to like he- OOMPF-"

Scarlet threw a light kick his 'brother's side and let him without much air. Iron could only chuckled at the display of siblings fighting for silly discussions. "Ah, Osiris, still the same Casanova as ever. Your sister is a very attractive mare, I'm sure there are plenty of stallions who would love to have a nice little chat with her."

"No mercy for the wicked, eh? Well, that's who you are. But I know you are a great pony on the inside. Heck, if I was 30 years younger, I would invite you to a cup of coffee on the restaurant you fellows always visit." Scarlet coughed a bit, earning from her a slight blush combined with her red fur.

"Any day sweetheart. But luckily, I have a mare that stole my heart 39 years ago and is still waiting for an old stallion like me." He dropped his hat lower and laughed wholeheartedly, "Sweet Celestia, that mare is something else."

"Ah, Blue Petals. Your wife, of course. How is she by the by?" asked Scarlet, keeping her facade up.

"Ah, you know... admiring the sea that she always loved to see." He looked up and sighed, "Seeing the sea has always calmed her. Especially during these harsh days of trouble nights and restless sleeps."

"I know... I know... It's been more than 37 years... and I should bring it up, but every time you fellow show up and can't help but feel..."

Everyone in the group looked at each other with concern. Without a word, they all knew what to do. Scarlet slowly closed up to him

"... I know it's a bit touchy sir, but I know there was nothing you could have done to change that day. None of you thought it was bound to happen." soothed Scarlet, letting a bit if herself along those sentences. "It's hard, to all of us. My mere words aren't going to do something, but you can count on us if you need anything."

Iron said nothing, as he simply dropped his head, hanging low and hiding his hurt face from the group. Even Cabin understood the situation and remained quiet. A sob. It took only that to provide a glimpse of a unhealed wound from the past.

"Iron..." muttered Boa, as he placed a hoof on the stallion's whiter. "Don't give it too much thought. We are here for you. Remember that, okay?"

"... Yes. I suppose." he raised his head high and shook, "Being all down and sad won't bring him back, I know." He wiped a tear from his eye and smiled. "It's thanks to you folks that an old pony like me still stand today. I'm grateful to have met you all. Really. Thank you."

They all showed a grateful smile, and nodded their heads. Boa nudged Scarlet towards Iron and expressed what he needed to say. She understood and and talked to him again. "Anyways, Iron, it's always a pleasure to see you again. But I believe you needed us for something, right?"

"Huh?" the stallion recollected himself and he cleared the confusion. "Oh yes, I was wondering if you young ponies could-"

Before Iron could finish that sentence, a heavy clanking noise came from the stationary train. All worried, especially Boa, Cabin and Scarlet, looked at the train as if someone just dropped six layers of heavy metal on fresh, polished aluminum. Soon after the racket ended, the squad tried to talk to Fire through the necklace.

Terrified that something might have happened, they all began walking to the train excluding Iron Mallet. Preparing their magic just in case, they slowly approached the door and were inches from opening it. Right before Cabin could touch the metal door, it began to slowly open by itself. Curious enough, they never heard magic being used. Backing away just inches, they began to assemble a formation and prepared for everything. What they did not expect what to see what lightning fast object soar barely through the door and take wings to the sky. Unsure of what they had seen, they tried to recognize the shadow looming over them with the sun on top of them.

Before they could take a clear look, the figure immediately spread what it seemed to be its wings and descended at high speeds, aiming towards the group. Iron could watch in awe as the figure rapidly dropped on top of his friends. All it took, was a moment of distraction. And the feathers was all it took to create a brief moment of confusion.

Dropping at dangerous levels, the pegasus used the momentum and went in circles around the group. Deciding it was enough, the unknown figure took flight higher and dropped harder than metal weld would have.

Just before hitting the ground, it came to sudden halt just in front of the squad. Feathers and dust were everywhere, creating a cloud dust. Shielding their, eyes Scarlet and company tried to clear the silhouette and it shook itself. Once the dust was gone, another sight to behold was in front of the four ponies.

Wielding a red, hot brilliant mane with a carefree and naturally combed style falling on the face, the pegasus soon began to distinguish itself from the mess. It had a yellow coat, covered with a few spear-looking red spots on the sides. The wings were now folded to the sides and seemed greatly groomed. At the end of body, a straight, somewhat curved red tail matched the hair. A visible scar on the chest seemed to form an X, hardly blending with the fur. His hooves were showing a slightly visible toe and his legs were fairly toned. And last, but not least, were a pair of emerald colored eyes that lured a lot of ponies into them.

The sight was now clear. A yellow fur, red hot mane and tail to match, a scar on the chest forming an X, fur with arrow looking spots on the sides, greatly groomed wings and striking emerald colored eyes. In front of them, stood a pegasus with said description and an innocent smile.

"Hey guys, what's up?" spoke the male pegasus, as he laughed a bit and turned around to meet the mature stallion behind him, awestruck by the scene that transpired before his eyes. Before the pegasus could speak, Iron beat him to it.

"Howdy, captain!" the male pegasus stated as he shook some of the dust off him. "Don't worry, I'm no harm. In fact, I'm with them!" He then pointed at Scarlet and the others behind him.

Iron Mallet was without words. Just who was this strange pegasus and all his tricks?

"Why do I always like to make an flashy entrance? Oh, right. Your question. Ahem," he took a deep breath and spoke. "My name is Mauricio Bonofire, but most of my friends call me Fire. Nice to meet you!"

Help! I'm not a changeling!

by Ashardu

12: Why do I always like to make an flashy entrance?