//------------------------------// // Episode 83: Oh Offender, My Offender (Season Finale Part 4) // Story: Life of a Wanted Changeling Season 3: Tyrants, Terrorists, and Tiaras, Oh My! // by Down with Chrysalis //------------------------------// Intro: Heh, score one for me in the cheeky opening, you think as you look at each of the Knights, none of whom expected you. Well you best think of something equally good to follow up with, can’t be leading slack jawed idiots…or rather more than usual slack jawed idiots. You nod as you take in said idiots. After only 40 minutes, they look like they’ve gone to war. Each one of them is wearing a dark cloak that mimics yours. These individuals thought they were carrying out Flag Burner’s twisted legacy, even if it was guided by the Changelings. None of them are clean…but then again, neither are you. Grandbuggy’s right. They’re all I got...well, more or less. Also within the room are a single Buffalo, two haggard looking guards, and Six…Pinkie Pies? Your eyes widen, before a small smile crosses your shrouded lips. At least some of them made it out…although now they’re in this mess because of my recommendation… You could not have known. You nod in agreement as you then clear your voice and say. “Not gonna answer huh? Well I guess that’s understandable, what with finding out you’ve been jerked around by the Changelings for the last year. Though I gotta say, you all seemed to have fared longer than the average pony during an invasion.” You then look out the window and see more changeling’s gathering. “But that isn’t going to last long…So, why don’t we skip our introductions? I know who each of you are, and you sure as buck better know who I am,” you roll your hoof. “This is Special Agent Mia who is giving us some precious talking and planning time, and Captain Jack Harkness of Torchwood. We’ve got other crew inside the TARDIS, and yes, it is THE TARDIS, and we’re here to make this situation less bucked than it was. Any questions?” They all look to each other, none of them saying a thing before they look back to you and the Diamond Dog who just gave up to you a month or so back raises his paw. “What are you in bucking kindergarten? Speak,” you command. He lowers his paw at your remark and asks, BrownDog’s Comment “Yeah, alright, big fan and everything. I just got to ask, aren’t you supposed to be all mind controlled by Nightmare Moon, or was Shining Armor just bucking with us?” You grit your teeth at that. Oh nice Shiney, way to let my deranged terrorist cell fan club know that. I doubt there’s anywhere in Equestria that doesn’t know by now. “Y-Yes. The Diamond Dog has a point,” speaks up one of the haggard guards from the back. “We’ve been issued orders to- “ “Let me stop you right there captain obvious,” you interrupt the guard. “And why don’t you and your buddy there go watch over the civvies? This is a private chat.” “B-but, we…” he stutters. “It would seem best to do as he says charismatic guard,” Erised says in monotone. The guard reluctantly nods and he and the one remaining guard go down in to the basement to the others. You let out a sigh and say with a hint of aggression. “Good, now that they’re out of the way, I’ll answer you. No, dear Shiney wasn’t bucking with you. She IS in my head…” some of them seem kind of nervous, others seem vindicated by what they hear, but you continue. “But let me make one thing perfectly clear. She isn’t controlling me, she isn’t responsible for my actions, and She ISN’T evil. You idiots got that?” They all kind of look skeptical and confused by that, and Rutherford speaks up. “Are you sure? Or are you just saying that because she’s making you?” Facehooving, you declare a bit huffily. “NO!” “But I mean, come on, isn’t this the same crazy goddess that was gonna plunge the world into entire night and eats children?” asks Kichi. Selena scoffs at that and you echo her scoff audibly. “No, she’s not like that anymore. And she never ate children, Nightmare Night is kind of slanderous it turns out. And you’re one to talk Foal Napper.” “I’m a victim of circumstance!” he responds hotly, but everyone ignores him. “And, you’re positive that Nightmare Moon isn’t going to make you black out the sun?” asks Solarkness. “Motherbucker, the fact that I’ve been running around for three years and the Sun is still shining should be your first clue!” you huff. “She’s changed! Her name is Selena, and quite frankly she’s the one person on this whole danged planet that I trust the most.” Flatterer, Selena chuckles causing you to smirk. “So yeah, I’m me as I’ve always been. And quite frankly, who would you rather fight with? Me, or the Changelings who played you for fools for a year?” “…Hold that thought Boss,” Brown Dog says before he gets the Knights into a huddle, which doesn’t help since you can still hear everything they say. “What do you think guys?” “Well at this point, do we really have a choice?” asks Solarkness. “We’re already considered cultists and terrorists, not like they can charge us anymore,” Snap Drake points out. “Well it’s not like I was ever a great fan of the guy. I only joined the club because you guys were letting in anyling, and you had resources. I mean, it’s because of him we even got thrown in jail,” Kichi counters. “Well it’s not like anyone made you join, anyone of us could have left at anytime and we didn’t” Rutherford counters this counter. “Does it really matter in the long run? Heck, I’d accept the dang Elements if it meant we could survive this,” Candy huffs. “Yeah, I’m with Candy, I say it doesn’t matter,” Silver adds. “Well some of us have standards for trust kid,” Grey says as he sticks his head out of the huddle. “Hey!” he says to you. “What?” you ask. GreyRebl’s Comment “I just want to know just one thing.” You narrow your eyes at him. “And what is that?” “Are you really the Hooded Offender or are you just a puppet?” You grit your teeth at the question since you’ve technically already answered it. There’s little need for context. The Hooded Offender is a being of great chaotic and destructive power, and wherever he goes, fire and turmoil is never too far. At least, that is what the stories go for the great masses. Sympathizers has seen him as a hero. But ever since the reveal of Selena’s’s involvement, the image of good and bad in the Offender has shattered. Is the person real? Are his actions all dictated by a former goddess? Is there even a Hooded Offender anymore? “Neither. Like I said before, I’m me.” You stare at the insane janitor until finally, he backs off. “Good enough, I guess,” Grey rubs his head irritably as he breaks from the huddle, “so fine. I’ll follow you. For now.” “Good enough?” you question with a brow raised. He just scowls. “I know what it’s like to be beyond one’s own control.” Saying that, he briefly glances at Erised, who just scowls back. “I don’t care if you don’t want to reveal too much about what is going on with Nightmare Moon, I’d like to keep my nose clean and stay ignorant on that front, but as long as you say you are your own person, then that’s good enough of something for me to follow. I at least can respect that much.” You nod, appreciating it. “If you need me to clean a mess, all you have to do is ask,” he says as he leans on his mop. Alright, so the crazy maintenance stallion is onboard… The rest of them then break their own huddle after this declaration, and two of the changelings step forward. It’s Kersey’s runner and the Bone Changeling. “We’ll help too, you seem like the best chance,” Candy says. “Yeah, I personally don’t care about the whole Nightmare Moon thing, just so long as you’re here to save us and this town,” Silver agrees. You nod then look to the others. “Alright, that’s three down. What about the rest of you?” BrownDog’s Comment The wyvern from Applewood hums in thought, showcasing his lawyerly ways. “Aside from surviving, what else can you offer us?” asks Rutherford. Your face becomes blank at that question. Really? They’re trying to bargain now of all times? “What, not being changeling food isn’t good enough?” Mia asks incredulously. “Well, we know you are tough and stuff, but we’re all technically fugitives. Sure we’ve helped out somewhat, but if we follow you and you somehow turn this tide, what do we get out of it? Because I sure as Tartarus doubt that Celestia will just forgive us, even now so that you’re directly involved.” Some of the others nod at this, and you sigh. “Look, I’m the last person who could possibly grant you a pardon or freedom. But from me personally I can offer…leniency…” you say vaguely causing some of them to raise their eyebrows. “What’s that even mean?” asks the Timberwolf. “It means maybe I won’t send you to jail after this is all over…but at the same time, I’m not just gonna let you all go scott free…but there is middle ground options.” “What kind of middle ground options?” asks Rutherford. “The kind where shadows and mystery replace a cold iron jail cell big guy,” Jack speaks up. “The kind of options where you can disappear for good, but you have to work for them. I’m sure we can work something out for those interested.” They consider this. At this moment, even if it is an empty promise, it seems like a lifeline. The Wyvern finally speaks up. “I’d be interested in hearing this proposal…provided that there is actual paperwork later to look over. But if what you’re offering is true, then you can count on me.” “I don’t care about the paperwork, if you can offer a way out of this crazy pony land, I’ll take it,” Solarkness agrees. “Well, as long as there’s love to feed me, I’ll consider it,” Kichi bargains. “Oh don’t worry little guy, I could give you all the love you’d ever need,” Jack flirts with lidded eyes causing Kichi to chuckle nervously and step back. Kichi’s Comment “Actually, I prefer the Pink Clone love we’ve been getting…but if you want a hug…” Kichi then transforms into a large stallion with bulging muscles that reminds you of Bulk Bicep’s physique. "I wouldn’t mind…” Kichi says in his own “seductive” voice. Captain Jack’s eyes widen before he then enthusiastically starts walking towards Kichi. “Oh, don’t mind if I do. But I can give you so much more than a hug…” This causes Kichi’s eyes to widen in surprise. “Wait, What?!” “Oh the possibilities with your transformation powers,” he says as he puts a hoof on Kichi’s chest. “I think we could-“ You yank Jack away from the Changeling with a Telekenetic pull. “NO! BAD JACK!!!” you yell. “Oh you’re no fun,” he grumbles as Kichi shifts back into his normal body. “Dude, the heck was up with that?” chuckles Snap Drake. “I thought it would scare him off. You know, like fighting fire with fire?” mumbles Kichi. “Trust me, that’s a battle you can’t win with Jack,” you say shaking your head. “Well, just so long as it’s just Kichi, don’t want to turn Erised’s and Grey’s love triangle into a square,” Brown Dog jokes. “Oh just bucking stop it!” Grey growls. “Never! Oh and I’m in too. Your way sounds the easiest. How about you Snap?” “Totally! This way we can get back to partying!” “Well…glad to see your priorities are in order,” you say unsuredly at the two alcoholics. “How about it Spartan?” asks Brown Dog to the scowling book guy. Oh and then there’s the revenge fetishist…guess he changed his mind if he’s all chummy with them. “I’m on which side you two are on. Fighting the common enemy, but it doesn’t mean I answer to him,” he spouts causing you, and many of the other Knights to roll their eyes. “Yeah yeah, you’re the cool loner and you aren't afraid afraid of nothing,” you mock causing him to clench his jaw. “I of course will join you Offender,” Erised the Ink Moth speaks up. “And finally, we can show these morons how justice is really carried out.” You shiver at hearing his voice and seeing his pale skinny body. Well…at least he survived. Perhaps not the best thing considering his power. Though it could come in handy. Yeah…But out of the rest of them, he’s the most evilest. “And what do you mean by that old bug?” asks Grey. BrownDog’s Comment Kersey’s Comment “Well isn’t it obvious? At last, we’ll finally be able to fight this thing right. No more holding back, no more weakness, and no more mercy. With the Offender, we can kill all of those damned insects and bathe the streets in their filthy blood and-” “Uh, yeah no,” you say shutting off his rant. He turns to you startled. “No? What do you mean no?” “I mean no,” you say in frustration. “No killing…I’m actually kind of glad most of you were following that rule already, but yeah, we’re doing this so that NOONE has to die, and that includes those changelings.” “B-But…you Killed Flag Burner. You killed King Sombra, and those bugs are much worse than they,” he counters. Guilt hits you, but you use it to your advantage. “No, I’M worse than they are. I didn’t “Do What’s Necessary” I lost control. Me and me alone. If the mare in my head had had a choice, she would have stopped me.” You know she nods at this assessment. “So no Ink Moth, I’m not going to let you all run wild killing. That’s not what I want, so if you’re going to join me, you better get in line.” Erised looks as though his whole worldview has been shattered. His jaw is dropped in shock and twitching as if trying to form words he can’t grasp. “I…I…I…” "Well look at this, someone finally able to shut his damn mouth,” Grey chuckles before looking to you. “Alright, so no killing huh? What about crippling them?" "What?" "Yeah, you said no killing, but technically ripping off the limbs, horns, and wings of those roaches won't kill them. Plus it'll keep them in jail longer than just knocking them out." You, Mia and Jack all curl your lips in disgust. "We are in a war." Changer adds. “Every little injury counts.” They want to tear off wings and horns? That’s bucked up. That’s like tearing off a freaking arm it… You think on your own wings. Crippled, never able to fly. On how Vicky’s wings are as functionally useless thanks to you leaving her to the dragons. You clench your jaw. Sure they may be the enemy…but I don’t want to put anyling through that… “No permanent crippling or maiming!” you declare. “If you gotta break some bones or limbs I don’t mind, but no turning anyling into a quadrepeligic or severing any limbs,” you growl. “Ugh, so many rules,” Grey groans. “What if like, we bit a horn off, but then glued it back on immediately?” asks Solarkness. You let out a sigh and facehoof. “No. If you’re having trouble, follow this guideline. What would Batmane Do?” “Uh…which Batmane?” asks Snap Drake. “Yeah, do you mean we should kill every criminal in sight and try to kill an obvious hero for no reason?” asks Brown Dog. “NO! Not that BVS Bullspit! Animated Version rules!” “Oooohhh,” many of them say in understanding. “But…but you’re the one…You know when to do what’s necessary and…” Erised continues to blabber. “Oh give it a rest you old monster. Your spiel gets boring the second time you hear it,” comes a frustrated voice from behind you. Most of the Knights tense up as a certain blue Unicorn steps through. “Well hello dumbasses. Did you all miss me?” she asks cockily. “YOU!” Erised croaks coming out of his funk. “The Blood Bending Witch!” Rutherford yells. “WHAT THE BUCK IS SHE DOING HERE?!” growls Solarkness. “You got water all over my floors!” Grey shouts. “Didn’t I drug you and tie you up?” asks Kichi. “Oh hey hot waterbender babe,” Snap Drake waves. She just rolls her eyes at this, and before anyone can do anything, you speak up. “Quiet down morons, Aqua here is my friend, and she’s going to help us get through this whole ordeal. So shut your pieholes!” “B-But why are you hanging with her?” asks Erised extremely confused. “She’s one half of the reason we were put away. Her and that damnable Bounty Hunter that thought he knew better than you.” You look at Aqua then back at him and chuckle. “Heh, well here’s the thing…That Bounty Hunter knew exactly how I thought,” you reply cryptically. APonyReadingFanFics’ Comment SnapDrakeGames’ Comment “And what does that mean?” asks Erised. A look comes across Rutherford’s face as he suddenly sniffs heavily. *Sniff Sniff* the Wyvern looks surprised before he looks to his timberwolf friend. "Do you smell what I smell?" The wooden wolf intakes his own breath. *Sniff Sniff.* "I... I think I do. but how does- that doesn't make sense!" "Or maybe it does…" Rutherford turns towards you. "We’ve smelled you before haven’t we?" "Yeah, you have. Just as disconcerting then as it is now,” you respond back. “What? When did you meet him? None of us have till now,” Kichi says. "No, we have," Rutherford growls. "His scent. It matches that of the Crimson Vengeance." The Knights collectively gasp. "Hold up," Silver interrupts. "Are you saying that CV, the bounty hunter who put us all in jail- was the Hooded Offender this whole time? That doesn't make sense!" You chuckle at that. "Oh No, Dragonborn over there is right. I AM the Crimson Vengeance." Many of their eyes widen and mouths fall open once more. Brown Dog and Snap Drake start looking around them. “What are you doing?” you ask. “Seeing if Shamalamadingdong is gonna pop out,” Brown Dog answers. “Yeah, because that was a heck of a twist,” Snap Drake finishes. “I’m pretty sure he’s still in jail with Beigh where they belo-OOF!” you are suddenly cut off as fur Pink masses latch onto. “MR. MASK MAN!!!” the Pinkie clones shout as they squeeze the life out of you. “Yes girls, it’s me. Please stop stealing my air…” you gasp. They ease up and the Zapped Pinkie smiles at you with tears in her eyes. “We did what you said. We came here and it was peaceful…” but then she shifts to sad. “But now there are mean bugs around and they captured Braeburn and all our other friends…” “Hey, we’ll get them back Zappy, I promise,” you say touching her arm and making her gasp. “How did you know that’s my new name?” “I’m a friend of Braeburn’s too,” you admit causing her to smile more. “But right now, I need to talk to my followers, so if you could? Please?” “Right! Sisters, to our Changeling marks!” they say before latching back onto the Changeling’s in the room. “Well…that happened. See, told you CV was pretty chill,” Snap Drake says to Silver. Silver Strange looks rapidly between you and the rest of the Knights. "R-Really? He put us in jail. Why?" Scoffing you say incredulously. "Really? Why? Because you guys were terrorists and criminals who operated in my name even after Flag Burner…After he was gone! Of course I was going to hunt you down. It's just the sensible thing to do. I didn’t want others to be hurt in my name!” They have differing emotions at this, Erised seems even more confused, Changer and Kichi seem upset, and Brown Dog and Snap Drake burst into laughter. You look over at them. "What are you laughing about?" "Nothing, really," Brown Dog manages between spurts of giggles. "It's just- bffhahaha!" "Every time that the government was all 'thank Celestia, the Crimson Vengeance is here to save us from the evil knights of the Hooded Offender," Snap chuckles, "they were actually thanking the Hooded Offender all along!" "Ponies are so stupid!" Brown Dog sputters. “That we are buddy, that we are,” Snap agrees. “Oh come off it!” Kichi interrupts, even though they still giggle. “That’s your excuse for putting us all away?” “Yes, each and every one of you.” ThePonySpartan’s Comment Changer grits his teeth. "Hey! I didn't do anything wrong or illegal! ...” the rest of the Knights give him unbelieving looks. “…Well before my supposed "death". “The Manehattan Police would say otherwise,” Snap Drake jeers. “Right…But even so, I had a bounty on my head just by becoming a 'leader' in the knights." "Why did you even join a terrorist group then?!" You ask. “Hey, it was a hard life for me without a home. These guys…they let anyone in no matter what species they were. I was…I was just looking for a place to belong…” he responds almost wistfully, before pointing out, “And Not all of us knew we were joining this kind of thing, we got bumped up to leaders after that nutjob and his troops got taken down. And apparently, that was just a ruse as well.” “Yeah it was. But if you guys didn’t even know it at the time, I sure as heck didn’t. Even still, when the majority of you were patsy’s, you still did some crap in my name.” Kichi’s Comment “Well yeah, but Terrorism is such an angry word for us. And really, did you think you were the moral high ground?” Kichi snaps back. “Hello Kettle, Yes I’m black too!” You growl at him, “I know I’m no saint, but here’s the thing, all I saw was a bunch of criminals that were carrying on Flag Burner’s plans, and they only existed because of me. I wanted it to end.” “Hey, we weren’t all as bad as Erised and Grey!” he snaps causing them to give dirty looks. “I just wanted an enterprise, but you burned down my pizzeria, and you returned those foals who are probably out on the streets at this moment.” “Um actually, all those kids you KIDNAPPED AND BRAINWASHED, are safe and in loving foster homes now you Pedo,” Aqua snaps causing Kichi to wince and several knights to snicker. “Yeah, You should know when to quit on trying to justify yourself on that one. It never ends well,” Changer chastises. “Whatever,” Kichi rolls his eyes. “All I’m saying is that he put us in jail, even though he’s committed crimes. He destroyed half of Applewood and Vanhoover during his battles.” “Get your facts straight dummy, it was Beigh and Shamalamadingdong that destroyed most of Applewood, and that was those two idiots faults',” he points to Snap and Brown who just nod enthusiastically. “And Vanhoover was that fat flank,” he says pointing to the sleeping Kersey, “An idiotic guard, And revenge fetishist’s ego’s fault.” Changer scowls. “But yes, as you said, I did commit crimes. But here’s the thing, unlike a lot of you, I didn’t have an agenda besides survival for me and mine. I’ve done horrible things, and one day I will pay for them. But when it’s all said and done, I was seeking to end your organization, whose existence only came about because of me. I…I just wanted to help erase my own mistakes…” You then look at each and every one of them. “You lot are a part of my mistakes. The only reason any of you random eccentric weirdoes are even a part of this is because of me. My very existence seems to throw the whole world into disarray…but I strive to be better. I strive to atone and make a difference, to try and help. I may not be a hero by a long shot, but try to reach for that goal when it’s necessary.” You then take your hood off so that they can see your face, just as each of them has their’s off. “Each of you is like a reflection of different parts of me as weird as that sounds. And I’ve been fighting myself for a long time. We can argue from here to the end of time about the paths our lives have taken, but that won’t help anyling. None of us are paragons of hope and justice, but right now, we’re all that stands in the way of an innocent town falling.” Sounds from outside catches your attention and you see many changeling’s gathering around the bubble “So I ask you this. Even now after everything I’ve told you. Will you still help me save this town?” The Knights are silent as the buzzing of Changeling wings fill the air. “You know what, we’ve had twists and turns in the last forty minutes to last me a lifetime, so why the heck not add a few more. I’m still in,” Brown Dog says nonchalantly. “Yeah, I mean, who cares how we got here, what matters is what we do now,” Snap Drake says. Solarkness growls, “You still owe me for the movie…but I will still fight.” “I was doomed either way no matter the path, so count me in still,” Candy says. “Yeah alright, I guess I wasn’t really blameless on my end. And I’ll go wherever my friends go,” Silver nods. Changer, Kichi, and Erised still seem on the fence, while Rutherford looks you up and down before looking to Aqua. TheRutherford’s Comment "I will agree to fight alongside her on one condition." "And that is?" you aks. "She keeps the bloodbending away from my friends. I cannot stand such an un-honorable action to be used…However in a fight for survival I understand using the necessity,” He nods towards Erised, “I want her word she will not use it against us." "I promise that I will not use my waterbending to control you or the other Crimson Knights, just so long as none of you give me a reason to. You have my word,” she responds with an eyeroll. “Very well then,” the Wyvern responds. "You better keep that promise girl. His clan takes oaths like that very seriously,” comes an aged voice from behind you as Grandbuggy makes his entrance. When he does, you see shock cross the faces of Rutherford, Kichi and Changer. “By the way Wyvern, hows your old man? I have not seen him in about 50 years or so. He still hosting poker on Saturday nights with the Dragon Lord?" "Um...yes? Wait, haven’t I met you before?” he asks. "Yep, I see you've gotten bigger. You used to stand no higher than my hip,” Grandbuggy responds. “Wait a minute, you’re…” Rutherford starts. BrownDog’s Comment ThePonySpartan’s Comment AllenNoir's Comment “Specialist 117!” Changer interrupts looking extremely shocked. “Ayuh? That’s me, and who are…oh hey, I remember you too little guy. Been awhile huh. Staying clear of manticores I hope?” “I…Uh…” Changer mumbles. “THE Specialist 117? Former right hoof of the Queen and all around badass?” asks Kichi in amazement. “The very same.” “Wait, really? The same one that went nuts when he got older?” asks Silver. “I was always nuts kid.” “But that can’t be right. They said you died in exile years ago,” Candy says confused. “Well I ain’t dead yet missy, something I'd like to prove to you later,” he winks at her and she scoffs. "Well he's just as perverted as the stories go." You look back to Grandbuggy with your eyebrows raised. “Granbuggy, how many of these Knights do you know already?” “Only like two personally. The rest just seem to be fans,” he smirks. “So, which ones giving you trouble and not jumping on board?” “Wait, Grandbuggy? Specialist 117 is the Hooded Offender’s Grandfather?” Kichi sputters in disbelief. “What, you doubt my almighty genes?” Grandbuggy boasts. “No Sir!” Kichi salutes. “Oh yeah, I remember something about that,” Silver speaks up. “He had a grandchild, but he was in a separate regiment than mine.” “I think I remember something about that. He was a senior when I was a freshman in High School, and something happened at a dance or something,” Candy muses. You grit your teeth at that, and you can hear Selena gnash her teeth as well. “Oi! Quit bringing up the past around my boyo,” he declares before turning back to you. “Now, which ones need more convincing?” You then point to ones still on the fence. “Ego trip, The Pedo, and the Vampire.” “I’m not a damn…Nevermind, If the legendary 117 is on your side, then I’ll fall in line. This guy is beyond my pyramid of respect.” “That’s nice,” Grandbuggy says as he walks up to Changer. “How about you…uh…” he seems to forget his name. “Spartan,” Brown Dog says. “Changer! For the love of the gods!” he snaps. “Ah right, the little Changer-Ling,” he chuckles. “Although it looks like you’ve finally put some muscle on them scrawny bones. Now them Manticores would have a reason to eat ya.” Changer stares back. "Right…but I still have SOME secrets I keep,” he emphasizes. "What really?” Grandbuggy asks. “Well ain’t no shame in it kid, but I'll leave it to you to let it out when ya need to." "...Thanks." “And listen kid, I’ve read your report, if you wanna do right by anything, you follow my Grandson, and you give up your quest of revenge. He can tell you himself it don’t work out so good.” “You know why I can’t 117. After what the former Queen did. I have to find answers, I have to…” “I know where they are kid. The both of them…” he whispers causing Changer to gape. “Y-You do?” He nods. “How?” “Your kind of family is one I have a soft spot for. The last Queen was a nasty piece of work, so I gave a hoof when I could.” “Wh-Where are…” “After this is all over, I’ll let you know.” He then pats his shoulder then walks to Erised. “Sooo…?” you draw out, causing him to look up at you. “I’m still in…just don’t order me around much,” Changer grunts. “No promises Book Guy,” you smirk causing him to groan. You then look back to Grandbuggy as he walks towards Erised. “Oh, this gonna be good,” Grey chuckles gleefully. “And hello to you Ink Moth, you still a genocidal nutjob like you used to be?” Erised sneers, “Do I know you?” “Probably not by name. I was still a lieutenant when you had your little breakdown.” “It wasn’t a breakdown! I saw the truth! The hive-“ “'Must die, because the rest of the world is too innocent and blah blah blah',” Grandbuggy then steels his eyes. “Listen here and listen well old bug. There’s good and evil in every race on this planet. You cling to this notion that all Ponies are good at heart, and that all Changeling’s are rotten, and it’s pure bullspit!” “Damn Right!” Solarkness agrees. “Oh really? I’ll have you know that I have seen-” Erised tries to interject. “Oh get off of “Seeing” I’ve been around the cosmos, I’ve seen the best and worst of every race you know, and many you don’t. And I can say one thing’s for certain, not everyone is the same.” “But the hive, for so long has been a poison. From generation to generation, all they do is,” “Yeah, we leech off of the other races, and we enjoy it. But do you know why? Because it’s all the Hive has known. They never had a chance to see another side. The Hive Mind becomes a thing of comfort that is horrifying to be without, and they have been conditioned to feel that way. But if all Changeling’s are the same, then how do you explain Us? How do you explain my Grandson, and these other three?” “Genetic defects. Freaks that aren’t apart of their machine to-” “No. They saw another way because they were already outcasts. But they LEARNED. Every one of those Changelings outside, they’re dangerous yes, but that’s because they know no other way. I won’t condemn them for an ignorance that’s been spread for generations.” He then gets in his face. “So drop the delusions of extinction. The dead can’t learn a new way. Beating those changeling’s asses will do a lot more to helping them learn than your little purge plans Ink Moth.” He then starts to walk off. “So kick some flank, and let your insane delusions go. If you can do that then I won’t kick your scrawny flank from here to Dodge Junction.” After that everyone in the tavern looks to the old changeling as he contemplates Grandbuggy’s words. Finally he lets out a snort and says nothing. “Alright, he’s in,” Grey Rebl announces. “How can you tell?” you ask. “Because that’s how he always answers when he’s sulky,” Grey says. You then smile and say, “Well alright then. And what about the unconscious guy?” you ask pointing to Kersey. “He’s in whether he wants to be or not,” Brown Dog declares. “But enough about him, are we still doing the decoy plan or are we doing a new one?” Slamming sounds come from outside and you see the changeling troops starting to slam into the barrier, causing Mia to concentrate more. “Because we’d rather have a plan sooner rather than later…” “Alright you nutjobs, here’s the plan…” You then go over the plan you and the TARDIS crew came up with. Of saving all of the hostages to cut off the love supply, to then erecting a barrier to keep the changeling’s in, and defeating the officers. “Um, the Officers might be a problem. Two of them at least are filled with concentrated plasmid power,” Grey Rebl points out. “No, all five of them are…and probably much more since they’ve been chosen by Chrysalis,” you explain causing the Knights to grimace. “Well that’s just peachy,” Solarkness snarks. “It is what it is. I don’t know if Sin has arrived yet or not, but she’s bound to be the most powerful. She’s been linked with Chrysalis.” The Changeling’s of the group gasp at this. “Of course she has,” Erised just shakes his head in frustration. “Yeah, but right now, we do know that we face these four. Magical defenses won’t hold long with them, and I’m guessing the only reason they haven’t captured you yet is because they don’t want to kill the ponies inside.” “Alright, so are you going to handle them while we take on the grunts?” asks Rutherford. “Uh…yeah no,” you admit causing them to falter. “What? Why not?” asks Solarkness. “Yeah, why don’t you just go all Saddle Rager on them like you normally do?” asks Snap Drake. “Because I’m incapacitated at the moment,” you gesture to your chest disk. “So you guys are going to have to do some heavy lifting here…” “Really? We get the Hooded Offender as back up and he’s handicapped for the fight? What a gip,” gripes Grey Rebl. “I’ll rectify this. Only Sin can take this off, so I’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.” “Well that blows,” groans Brown Dog. “I know. And that’s why we have to make sure they are separated. We’ll have more of a chance of defeating them if they aren’t all together. But even still, it’s gonna be tough. We need the distraction groups to lead as many forces away so that Jack and Mia can rescue as many town folks as they can, otherwise the Hive will keep restoring their health.” “Well that’s all and good, but how exactly are these two,” Kichi points to Mia and Jack, “going to rescue all those ponies?” “Oh I’m glad you asked that you devilish charmer,” Jack responds. “You see-“ “Well it’s kind of obvious isn’t it?” interrupts Snap Drake causing everyone to look at him. SnapDrakeGame’s Comment "I mean, that’s The actual TARDIS right?" "The one and only," you confirm. Snap grins wildly. "Oh my god that's so cool." “Of course it is, but what’s the point?” you ask. “Sorry, I’m just still fanning out over it actually being real. But anyway, the TARDIS is the solution obviously.” “Yeah, not only is it a guaranteed escape route, but we could fit a whole town’s worth of ponies in there,” Brown Dog agrees. "Exactly!" Snap says. "It'll be impossible for them to follow us. We should get everyone in the basement in their now while your friend's shield bubble is still holding." Jack smirks and says, “Took the words right out of my mouth.” "Heh. What can I say? I'm very good at running away from my problems," Snap blushes. Jack smirks and says, “He’s right, We’ll put all non essential personnel into the TARDIS where they’ll be watched over by our resident overseer.” “Darn tootin!” comes Nightshade’s echoey voice from inside the machine. “Was that a child’s voice?” asks Silver. “Don’t worry about that, it doesn’t pertain to you,” you wave off. “And once the plan goes off, we will be moving the TARDIS from area to area, rescuing as many as we can. “ “Alright, and what about the dome?” “The TARDIS will need to be in a centralized area, preferably after the ponies have been rescued. And then the Good Doctor will trap them in.” “Oh yeah, that should have been the first thing we asked but, WHERE IS THE DOCTOR?! I wanna meet him so badly,” Brown Dog squees. “He’s outside the dome, waiting for his signal,” Grandbuggy declares. “Really? Because this seems like something he should be in the middle of,” asks Solarkness. “Well he’s still in time out from me,” Grandbuggy chuckles. “And besides if all goes well, we might have more forces to help." “More forces?” asks Erised. “Who?” Meanwhile, Outside the Dome GreyRebl’s Comment BrownDog’s Comment In the outskirts of Appaloosa, distant from the bubble that holds the denizens inside, troop of battle-hardened buffalo lines up at the edge of a short cliff. In the middle of them are three figures. The Chief and his daughter, Little Strongheart, stare resolutely at the bubble. The third...is a brown stallion with an hourglass as a cutiemark. “So it’s true,” Strongheart breathes, “They’re in danger and we didn’t even notice. A lot of our tribe was in there for a birthday party…” The Doctor shakes his head. “No surprise. The incident just started over 40 minutes ago.” “Even still, there are so many of them, and so few of us,” Strong Heart bemoans. “True, but we are braves, and we will make our actions count,” the Chief encourages in his booming voice, thrumming with wisdom, “We thank you for warning us, friend,” he says to the Doctor. “It would shame us with regret if we stood by when our own neighbors were under attack. We will never forget this debt.” “Think nothing of it. By all accounts, I should be in there helping, but my rogue friend is punishing me thinking he knows best…” The Doctor then looks down in sadness. I did help him Quick Fix, but you were just too stubborn to see. I didn’t even get a chance to catch up with Bugze before you booted me out of my Ship for the second time in 8 minutes! And now because of you everypony thinks the worst. Ditzy she…Ditzy. A sense of loss hits him. Oh Ditzy, how am I going to make this up to you? Because of Quick Fix, I can’t go back before any point before today to get you. I haven’t abandoned you, not you. Not Ever. But how am I going to be able to convince you of that? Noticing his down expression, the Chief speaks. “Do not let sadness take you my friend. It will do our friends no good at this point.” Coming out of his thoughts, the Doctor shakes his head and says, “Yes yes of course. Forgive me. Right lads, here’s what we have to do. Around the perimeter of this city, there will be several relays keeping that dome up. Each one is bound to have a guard,” he says drawing a figure in the dirt. “Our goal is to capture these relays so that I can reverse the polarity of the neutron flow and be able to link it with my ship. Then we can enter the town proper.” The Buffalo Chief nods before looking back to his tribe. “For our friends!” The buffalo then split into four groups as they go towards their destination. Back With The Group “So yeah,” Mia speaks, her eyes shut in concentration. “The Doctor will worry about the dome, we just have to make sure we’re in position when he’s ready.” “Did somepony say Doctor?” asks a heavily accented voice. Kersey’s Comment You, Grey Rebl, Erised, and Jack all facehoof as Quacksalver wakes up and stumbles over to your group. “Why won’t you stay down?” growls Erised. "Wait, you know this quack?" you ask Jack. "It's Doctor Quacksalver. I didn't spend 10 minutes at the Canterlot Royal Medical Institution for nothing." Quacksalver corrects. "I've had quite a few resets at the hooves of that moron." Jack responds, ignoring Quacksalver. "Want me to knock him out again?" Grey Rebl offers. "Unfortunately we need all the help we can get." Jack counters. *ding* "Hey Doc, you see all those change- I mean patients outside?" Quacksalver looks out the window then gasps, "It's a mass outbreak of grumpus-violentus! I need to perform Oldboy-ectomies, stat! Original-us and Remake-us!" He then pulls out a "Burknomic Scapel" (i.e. a hammer) and a frying pan out of his lab coat. “I need to amputate their infected wings immediately!” he declares. “No amputations Doc. When the time is right we only need you to uh…knock them out for surgery.” “Ah, I get it, that way we can do a mass amputation without having to track them all down, Killing two stones with one bird. Very good plan,” he mutters drunkenly. “Alright awesome…So who wants them on their team?” “Buck that, let him go by himself,” Grey proclaims. “…Fair enough,” you agree. “But yeah, once we’re all out there we have to ensure our specialized groups fight the right boss.” “We’ll need heavy hitters against the big guy, magic and elementals against the twins, and whoever’s left against this Vicky,” Changer surmises. “That’s right,” you agree. “But the thing is, we have to ensure that they are separated from each other. My presence might make them angry enough, but then they’d all be after me.” “…What about something large fat and hard to miss?” Changer speaks up. BrownDog’s Comment “What do you mean?” you ask. “The fat flank,” he points over to Kersey’s sleeping form. “Um, he’s kind of asleep,” you point out. “Yeah I know, but if we can wake him up, he’s still got traces of the formula in his system.” Your eyes widen, and Rutherford speaks up. “Whoa whoa, you want to add a freaking Kaiju to this mess?” asks Rutherford. “Yeah, how will that help. I remember him not exactly being a people person. He’d just rampage against anything,” you say. “Not if he has a focal point,” Changer says. After that, all of the Knights look at the Diamond Dog for some reason. “What?” he asks. “Well, he does hate you the most man,” Snap Drake explains. “What? Nah…” Brown Dog denies. “He would often rant about you and his desire to end you,” Solarkness adds. “Oh come on,” Brown Dog holds his arms up. “That doesn’t mean I’m his most hated, he did that for everyone. I mean, just because I stole his cookies, threw up on his rug when I was drunk, put mustard in his bedsheets and called him a pig in a blanket and…” His eyes widen in understanding. “Huh…maybe he does hate me…” “Exactly,” Snap Drake says. “Alright, that’s all well and good, but he’s still knocked out and everything,” you reason. You hear a sigh and you all look to the Ink Moth. “Let me guess, you wish for me to give him a jump-start so to speak?” “Well, I was really hoping that you’d be able to control him,” Changer admits. “Not as weak as I am now, and besides, I take it I’m going to be stowing away on this ship with the rest of the citizens. I can send my thralls into the field, but if I’m constantly shifting between places, it will put a strain on me. I won’t be able to control him if he grows.” “Well, it’s an option. Can you start jump-starting him now as a precaution?” Solarkness asks. “Just a moment,” he says as he pricks his hoof on some glass, walks over to Kersey, opens up his mouth and drips some drops into his mouth. “Um, is that sanitary?” you ask. “Tartarus no,” Erised says as his eyes glow. Suddenly Kersey’s breathing starts becoming more erratic until… “ZZZZZZZZ” he snores very very loudly. Erised sweats as he sits down. “That’s the best I can do for now…” The others nod then try to get Kersey up, but he just seems to mumble in his sleep. “What are we…some sort of suicide squad?...ZZZZ” “Oh gods, just put him back under,” Grey gags. You raise an eyebrow. “Really? He quotes that movie in his sleep?” “He tends to like stuff like that. He unironically loves Beigh,” Snap Drake explains causing you to shudder. “Unclean…” you hiss before shaking your head before looking to Mia. “How you holding up?” “I’m consistent, these dang Changelings are relentless though. Oh, can you ask if that male and female changeling over there are together?” she says pointing to Candy and Silver. “I’d really like to know if-“ “Concentrate Mia, you can ship later,” Aqua commands. “Right, right, sorry,” she chuckles. “Alright, let’s get the civvies into the TARDIS.” The civilians are then each put into the TARDIS, along with the two remaining guards, 6 Pinkies, and one buffalo. “Can’t we come to help?” Zappy asks. “We need you safe, besides, with the six of you, this buffalo and those two guards, you can help Mia and Jack with freeing the hostages,” you explain causing her to nod. You then look to said guards who still look weary about you. “For the time being, the filly inside is your boss. Don’t try to contradict her or you’ll be sorry,” you warn causing them to nod in understanding. Once everyone is inside, Jack and Mia stand in the doorway, waiting for orders. You pull your hood up and say, “Alrighty then. Get in your groups.” GreyRebl’s Comment The knights then form groups, “Powerhouses: Changer, Grey, Brown Dog, Silver Strange, Kersey (still unconscious),” you command causing said beings to stand before you. “When you’re out there, your task is to hopefully keep Mongo and his guys busy.” “And how are we going to carry him?” Grey points to Kersey. “We could just roll him again,” Snap and Brown Dog say aloud. “Or, we could have Quack carry him,” Grey points out and they turn to see Quacksalver trying to punch Kersey awake. “Wake up! Your suffering fatitis!” Ignoring this, you say to the others. “Elementals: Aqua, Solarkness, Rutherford, and myself.” “Wait, you’re in our group?” asks Solarkness. “Yeah, this stupid disk is kind of hindering me. But they’re not the only ones who have plasmids,” you explain. “Our job is to take on Biff and Tannen. They’re thick as thieves as twins usually are, so if we can separate them, things will go simpler.” “Runners: Candy, Erised, Kichi, and Snap Drake.” “Why am I a runner?” asks Kichi. “Because you “ran” a crime syndicate. I’m trying to make a theme here. Anyway, you’ll have to distract and take on Vicky. I assume she’s the weakest due to telekenisis, but don’t take her lightly.” “And what about specialist 117?” asks Changer. Grandbuggy chuckles and says, “Well, as much as I’d like to help my Grandson, or kick the tartarus out of the behemoth, or see how Vicky’s filled in…I gotta drive the ship, because I know for a fact the Doc ain’t gonna give me another chance after today. So I’ll be with team, “Infiltration…” you finish, “Grandbuggy, Mia, Jack, and whoever inside you want to assist you.” “Now, does everyone understand what we have to do? Fight and scatter the enemy, and save any civvies if you can. If you all can take out the officers, great, but remember, they still have troops and we only need to last until our own dome can be deployed. If you're still kicking after the new dome comes up, make for the center of town where the TARDIS will be. Try not to get yourselves captured.” You then smirk and say, “Are you all with me?!” you shout, pumping them up. They all cheer and shout as they put their hoods on for combat. Kersey’s Comment “Heck ya man, this is gonna be sweet! We’re fighting with the Hooded Offender, who has the Doctor’s TARDIS!” Snap Drake whoops. “If that doesn’t ensure good things, nothing wi-“ His happy chant is cut off as a large chunk of ice energy blows out a chunk in the side of the tavern. Mia winces as the shot cut through her magic. You all look outside and see Biff and Tannen standing with a floating Vicky and a roided up Mongo who looks like he’s Six Bulk Biceps lumped together. They each have looks of confusion on their faces. “How did they get reinforcements in?” asks Vicky. “We don’t know, the box just appeared,” the twins say in unison. Vicky and Mongo then look to each other. “Is Sin coming?” asks Tannen. “She’s on her way, but we need to get this handled,” Vicky declares. “Right. Everyone, take a side of the building.” They then each fan out to their own side of the building, with Mongo staying in the area where the ice blast came from. "YOU JUST HAD TO BUCKING SAY IT!!!" Everyone yells at Snap Drake for his jinx. "Oh... my ba- *smack*" Snap Drake apologizes before Kersey's comatose hoof reflexively slaps him on the back of the head. "Fine, I'll never be positive again!" You then look to them and say, “Never mind that S#!%, Here Comes Mongo!!!” As you say that the behemoth rushes at the barrier and starts striking at it hard, causing cracks and Mia to take a sharp intake of breath. “Go Go Go!” you yell to her and Jack and Grandbuggy who enter the TARDIS. Grandbuggy gives one look back to you and says. “Give’em Tartarus boy,” before closing the door. The TARDIS then starts groaning as it begins to fade. You then command the Knights. “When that barrier drops, scatter. We have to get them by themselves or we don’t stand a chance.” They all nod as they pump themselves up in silence. The fading TARDIS and the cracking barrier the only sounds. As the TARDIS nearly finishes disappearing, Mia’s fading bubble is finally popped by Mongo. “RUN!!!” you yell. The Powerhouses Run front, past Mongo,(with Quacksalver somehow carrying Kersey on his back), The Elementals flee to the north past the Twins, with Rutherford picking up Aqua and flying through the roof. “What are you doi-AAAAHHHH!!!” she yells as the dragon lifts off with her. And the Runners do what they were told as they sprint past Vicky. “AFTER THEM!!!” the three changeling officers yell as Mongo grunts. You then hear many, many buzzing wings chasing after you. At the end of every year we find ourselves in dire straits, Selena comments. I know! Isn’t it lovely?! You think madly as you run for your life. There are now Four Groups: Powerhouses, Elementals, Runners, and Infiltrators. WHAT DO YOU DO? Outtro: