//------------------------------//
// Episode 16: The Times They Are A Changeling 
// Story: My Little Pony Mystic Season 2 
// by Shadow Master 
//------------------------------//

5th April 20XX,

After the terrible Jokelypse Day, everything was back to normal now. Twilight Sparkle decided to visits her older brother again at Crystal Empire. Her family and two students especially Shadow Dragon and a surprisingly guest decided to join her in the visits, as well.

And now, all of them were now inside the Ponyville Train Express, as it was almost reaching its destination now.

"We're going to see Uncle Shiny and Aunt Cadance!" Nyx squealed happily while bouncing on her seat, "And I can't wait to see Flurry Heart too!"

Lance Justicestrike sighed, "Yeah. We also need some break too."

"I hope Shining Armor and Princess Cadance don't think it's too soon for me to come back to the Crystal Empire for a visit." Twilight Sparkle said happily, "But I just know Flurry Heart's grown so much already. I wonder if I'll even recognize her."

Shadow Dragon sighed in annoyance, "Seriously, Twilight? She's the only baby they have. So, I think you should be worry about it."

"He's right," Starlight Glimmer and Sunset Shimmer nodded in agreement.

Heard of what her boyfriend has said, Twilight Sparkle gave her annoying angry glares and making a grunt at her boyfriend and students. Her expression scared the students while her boyfriend remained calm but amusingly.

Sunset Shimmer gulped, "Sorry! Didn't mean to make fun of you!"

Starlight Glimmer nodded, "Me too! I know you want to visit your niece as much as possible, and I'm excited to see Sunburst again."

"Yeah. Me too. I also wanna see Flash too," Sunset Shimmer said happily, "But also, I just don't wanna fall behind on my friendship lessons back home."

Starlight Glimmer sighed, "She's right. We've kinda got distracted from the studies after Rainbow Dash's prank on both of us to fight."

"Aw, don't be silly, you two," Nyx said happily, "Friendship lessons aren't always at Ponyville to find and learn, it's everywhere. Right, Spike?"

"'Spike'? Who's 'Spike'?"

Everyone looked surprise and confuse as they turned and found Spike worn a coat and hat, and even his guest and visitor also worn the dress. They both were holding and reading newspapers. What were they doing?

"Spike? Seriously?" Ember asked in annoyance as put hers down, "And why are we even wearing this?"

Spike groaned as he puts his down, "Princess-! I mean Dragon Lord Ember, you're blowing our cover! Ponies will know us!"

Ember sighed in annoyance while rolling her eyes, "Spike, we're the only ones here. So, everyone knows us."

Surprised of what Ember has said, Spike looked around of his surroundings. He realized that there weren't many ponies but him and his family only in the train.

"Spike, why do you need a disguise?" Twilight Sparkle asked in surprise.

Ember nodded while giggled a bit, "Yeah. Don't tell me you're sfraid of something or someone to chase after you, aren't you, little runt?"

"No!" Spike exclaimed in annoyance, "Last time we came to the Crystal Empire, there was a lot goin' on with the new baby and the Crystalling, but I still got mobbed in the street."

"Okay. Seriously?" Lance Justicestrike asked in amusement, "I thought you liked the attention. The screams. The cheers. And the praise. You loved them."

Nyx giggled a bit, "Big brother has the point. You'd always want them so badly."

"And I wouldn't say 'mobbed'," Starlight Glimmer added in.

"True. But this is just a family visit." Spike said calmly and firmly, "So I wouldn't want the presence of Spike the Brave and Glorious to turn it into some kind of circus. Plus, I'm showing Ember about what else ponies do here and learn more about 'friendship'." He scoffed, "Good thing that I didn't bring Drake Trio. They would make some unwanted attention especially to me."

"We get it. The Crystal Ponies adore you." Shadow Dragon said in annoyance.

Twilight Sparkle giggled a bit, "He did save the Empire. Twice. But still, I don't think your presence will turn our visit into a circus."

"Twilight's right. I think you're overreacting, Spike." Sunset Shimmer remarked.

Spike scoffed, "Not if I find the right disguise, it won't."

Heard what Spike has said, everyone turned to him. They found something shocking unbelievable to see. Spike added funky rainbow-colored afro on his head. While Spike posed proudly, his friends still found it unbelievable and amusement.

Ember groaned while rolled her eyes in annoyance, "Unbelievable..."





At the abandoned warehouse, a loud screams and cries in pain and agony can be heard within it like something or someone was attacking and killing them. Inside the area, there were many dead bodies of Royal Guards lying around with slices of throat, head decapitation, limbs and wings chopped off and worn body pieces were everywhere. And the last guy got his head decapitated.

With his enemies have been dealt with, the mysterious swordsman sheathed his swords. He then summoned a communication swirling portal. He turned and faced at Dark Curse.

"Report, Swipestrike," Dark Curse said dryly.

Swipestrike scoffed while smirking, "Just enjoying my hobby, boss." Dark Curse gave a glare while snarling. He sighed in annoyance, "Still no sign of our contact. She hasn't shown her faces or even her little messengers. I got bored."

"Stop fooling around, Swipestrike! This meeting with her is too important. I want to be sure that her alliance and negotiation with us is true or not. I don't like being deceived by the likes of her kind. I can't afford to delay our projects and preparations."

"Don't worry, Dark Curse. I know what I'm doing. Everything is under the control. I just need to find someone that helps me find others."

"You'd better. That insect queen better give some cooperation with us well especially providing me assets against our common enemies. I don't trust her especially her kind."

"Abilities? Strategies? Loyalty?"

"All of them..."

"Don't worry. You won't regret it. And she won't reject it either. After all, she's my mother." Swipestrike said amusingly as he transformed into Maul the Demon Changeling, "If she does up to her tricks, I'll make her pay for the betrayal and foolishness..."





After arriving at their destination, Twilight Sparkle and her group dropped out from the train. However, they found something and odd about Crystal Ponies. No noise. No ponies. Nothing but silent and empty area...

"Uh, disguise or not, Spike," Ember said in concern and surprise, "I don't think you need to worry about being mobbed. Nopony's here."

"It's like a ghost town." Spike remarked.

Twilight Sparkle hummed in concern, "I've got a bad feeling about this."

"Something's been going around here." Shadow Dragon said suspiciously and firmly as he looked around of his area, "We need to check it out."

Nyx nodded, "Just hope Uncle Shiny and Aunt Cadance are alright especially Flurry Heart."

"Then, we'd better go and check it now." Lance Justicestrike said firmly.

With everyone nodded in agreement, they headed off to Crystal Empire's Palace now, hoping to find some answers about the kingdom being so quiet and wondered why ponies are not in sight. Unknown to them, Maul was watching the event especially when he was hissing and laughing evilly.

"Well, things just got interesting. Looks like the meeting with her will have to wait. I'm gonna enjoy this especially my mating queen..."





Entering the Crystal Empire, Twilight Sparkle and her group looked around of the area. They still found no sign of ponies at the capital city.

"I don't really like it," Sunset Shimmer said in concern.

Starlight Glimmer nodded, "Yeah, this is weird."

"Can I take these ridiculous fashion off, Spike?" Ember asked in annoyance as she was scratching her back and front hard, "They're giving me some serious itch!"

Spike sighed, "I guess we don't need the disguise after all."

As both Spike and Ember removed their disguises, Crystal Ponies appeared out of nowhere. They held two dragons up while cheering and shouting happily. The ponies were throwing up and down the dragons.

"It's Spike the Brave and Glorious! He's come to save us yet again! Spike! Spike! Spike! Spike!"

"Wow. This is something..." Ember said in surprise, "Is this always happen every time you come here, Spike?"

"More or less, Dragon Lord Ember. Sorry about this." Spike chuckled uneasily, "But seriously. Save you from what?"

"Seriously, ponies. What the hell is going on?" Shadow Dragon demanded suspiciously and firmly.

Twilight Sparkle nodded in concern, "Why was everypony hiding?"

Three Crystal Ponies turned and looked at Twilight Sparkle and her friends. They all showed concern and feared as they began questioning.

"[Amber Laurel] Oh, it sure looks like Princess Twilight, her family and pupils. [Scarlet Heart] But how can we be sure? [Golden Väs] We can't! Either one of them could be the... you know! [Amber Laurel gasped] What if this... isn't... the real Spike and his girlfriend?! [Scarlet Heart gasped] Everypony, run!"

After some thinking and questioning, Crystal Ponies yelped and screamed in concern and fear. They all ran off at once while dropping both dragons to the ground hard.

Ember groaned as she wiped some dusts off, "I am not his girlfriend! He's my friend, that's all!"

Shadow Dragon hummed, "Okay. Something strange is definitely going on."

"And we need to find out," Twilight Sparkle said firmly.

Spike groaned painfully as he rubbed his tail gently, "Ya think?"

Ember helped Spike up. They and their group headed off to the palace now. Arriving at the altar, they were halted and blocked by two Crystal Royal Guards.

"Who goes there?" Crystal Royal Guard #1 demanded in anger.

"Um, you don't recognize the Princess of Friendship?" Starlight Glimmer asked dryly.

Sunset Shimmer nodded firmly and annoyingly, "Yeah. Rude much, you know. I would have sue my boyfriend about your attitude. Where is he now?"

"Watch it, girly. I don't know who your boyfriend is. But I can tell him of how stupid he is for not telling you off about military protocol." Crystal Royal Guard #1 said dryly, "And yes, we recognize her."

Crystal Royal Guard 2 nodded, "But that doesn't mean it's really her."

Turned to Twilight Sparkle, Shadow Dragon groaned while crossed his hooves, "Is this one of your brother's pranks on me? I still hate jokes. I really hate it."

Twilight Sparkle annoyed as she nudged Shadow Dragon's chest, "Doubtful. Unless you pissed him off."

Seeing Royal Guards refused letting his family in, Spike stepped in, "It's okay, guys. They're with me. And any friend of Spike the Brave and Glorious especially," He gestured to Ember while smiling proudly and gently to her, "this beautiful and elegant lovely lady is a friend of the Crystal Empire, am I right?"

"Beautiful? Elegant? Lovely Lady?" Ember asked dryly and sarcastically, making Spike yelped nervously. She snickered at Spike, "Be careful of what you say, Spike. I bite boys for saying 'those things' about me."

Spike gulped, "Well, it is true, isn't it? You are one."

Ember sighed while rolled her eyes in amusement, "Alright. I let this one off for being nice and give good compliment to me."

"Huh. It does look like him." Crystal Royal Guard #2 commented, "Especially his girlfriend."

Crystal Royal Guard #1 nodded, "Well, it would, wouldn't it? I'm sorry, but we'll need to see some proof of identification."

Spike was shocked and heartbroken. He was being denied by Royal Guard?! Why?!

Ember snarled a bit while readied to fight, "I'll show you my identification, you little punk-ass."

"Bad idea!" Lance Justicestrike and Nyx yelped in concern and worry as they quickly held Ember back, "Bad idea! Really bad idea!"

"We'll take care of things from here."

Shining Armor in his armor and Princess Cadance have arrived. Flash Sentry was guarding and escorting Sunburst, who was bringing the baby cradle of Flurry Heart to the the scene as well.

"Oh, Shining Armor, Cadance, thank goodness!" Twilight Sparkle said in relief, "What's going on?"

"We can explain, Twily..." Shining Armor said firmly before narrowed his eyes, "if it really is you especially your hotshot boyfriend."

As Shining Armor nodded, Princess Cadance nodded before approached Twilight Sparkle. Everyone wondered of what's going to happen next. She then began to perform her childhood yet secret hoofshake, which Twilight Sparkle responded the same way.

After seeing how Twilight Sparkle reacted, Princess Cadance approached and hugged her humbly. The lavender Alicorn hugged back. The Princess of Love returned to her husband while nodded firmly.

"It's okay, everypony. It's her." Shining Armor said happily. He turned and glared at Shadow Dragon, "But not you. How do I know you're the real deal?"

Shadow Dragon groaned in annoyance, "Oh? You wanna know if I'm the real deal, shiny boy?" He hummed amusingly, "Let me see. I protect and save your sister for a long time especially dating and having great nighttime with her. It was awesome. And you know the best part, I laugh at Shining Armor being a worry scared daddy about the baby."

Shining Armor groaned in anger, "Why you little-?! Nopony talks trash about me! No one but that-!" He stopped upon looking at ponies looking and smiling amusingly at him. He groaned in annoyance, "Fine, it's him. Almost got him."

"So, what's all this about?" Starlight Glimmer demanded.

Sunset Shimmer nodded, "And what's with 'proof of identification'? Is this some kind of military protocol now?"

"No. A Changelings have been spotted nearby." Sunburst said in concern.

"A Changeling?!" Everyone asked in shock.

"Oh great. Just what we need," Lance Justicestrike said dryly, "More troubles."

Spike nodded, "That's not good."

"No, it's not." Princess Cadance said in concern, "After Queen Chrysalis took my place at our wedding and invaded Canterlot with her army of minions, we're not taking any chances.

Shadow Dragon scoffed and muttered softly, "Not to mention turning a certain selfish pony against his sister and almost causing a city to be destroyed." Shining Armor gave a whack on Shadow Dragon's head, making him yelped, "Ow!"

Shining Armor groaned, "I heard that!"

"Changelings feed off of love. And ever since Flurry Heart's Crystalling, the Empire is filled with more love than anywhere in Equestria." Sunburst said in concern, "It's possible they've come for the baby."

Flash Sentry hissed in concern, "But we've got a psychopath to deal with. So, we have to be careful. This one is a real psychopath. He killed and ate lots of good soldiers and innocents."

Nyx looked disgusted and shocked, "That is so disgusting. What kind of monster does that?"

"I don't know," Shadow Dragon said in concern, "But we're gonna find out."

"Either way," Shining Armor said calmly and firmly, "That's why we posted the extra guards, and why we're—"

"Checking everypony's identity." Twilight Sparkle added.

Nyx hummed, "You know, I think I saw that Changeling when we were leaving on that day."

"Huh? Why didn't you tell us?" Lance Justicestrike asked.

"I thought it was just a bird at first because it was so far away." Nyx admitted in concern.

Spike gasped, "Wait, wasn't there also one at Cranky and Matelda's wedding?"

Lance Justicestrike hummed, "You know, I think you're right."

"Huh?! How could we have not noticed that?" Shining Armor asked in shock.

Shadow Dragon gave an annoying looks, "Probably because you were too busy shedding liquid pride." Shining Armor whacked Shadow Dragon's head hard. He groaned, "Ow! That's hurt!"

"I'm sorry for all of this." Princess Cadance apologized. She smiled while looking at her baby, "Flurry Heart's really been looking forward to seeing you."

Flurry Heart cooed happily. Twilight Sparkle and her family approached and checked on the baby. All of them awed happily at her.

"Hey, Flurry! Remember Cousin Nyxie?" Nyx asked happily. Flurry Heart giggled happily while playing a peek-a-boo to her. She giggled, "That's my favorite game! Peek-a-boo! I see you, little Flurry!"

Lance Justicestrike smiled, "Wow. She likes you a lot."

Flurry Heart laughed happily. Twilight Sparkle smiled, "Oh, she's gotten so big! Starlight and I will do whatever we can to help protect her."

"She almost looks the same as before," Shadow Dragon remarked, but got his chest nudged. He groaned, "Ow! Seriously?!"

Princess Cadance giggled, "To be honest, having you all here is already a big relief."

The Crystal Royal Guard #2 whispered softly to Shining Armor, he smiled and turned to Twilight Sparkle and her family, "The royal guards were wondering if Spike the Brave and Glorious would like to join in the search for the changeling."

"Really?" Spike asked in surprise.

"Uh, I don't know if that's such a good idea, Spike." Twilight Sparkle said in concern, "It sounds dangerous."

Shadow Dragon nodded, "Yeah. We're dealing with both normal and demon Changeling."

"Aw, come on, guys," Spike said confidently, "this is Spike the Brave and Glorious you're talking to. Have you ever known me to run from danger?"

Twilight Sparkle was concern and feared of Spike's safety while her family were doubt of his ability of handling the situation.

Shining Armor smiled, "He'll be safe with our guards."

Spike snickered, "Or will your guards be safe with me?"

Twilight Sparkle sighed but smiled in amusement at Spike's enthusiasm and optimistic. Ember approached and held Spike close to her.

"If it ease you up a bit, Twilight, I'll look after him," Ember said confidently and proudly.

"Really?" Spike asked in surprise. He yelped in realization, "I mean 'no'! Bad idea! You're here to know more friendship lessons from Twilight and ponies. You need to make dragons more friendly and better too."

Ember giggled while smiled amusingly, "True. But I won't get better if I don't have my teacher and guide to help me."

Spike chuckled uneasily and blushed in red, "Guess... That make sense..."

"Do I sense love in both of them?" Lance Justicestrike asked in amusement.

Nyx giggled, "Feels like one. Spike sure has big crush on Ember than Rarity."

Flash Sentry gave the annoying glare to two Crystal Royal Guards, "Which one of you two have called me 'stupid' especially told my girlfriend off?!"

Crystal Royal Guards yelped and gulped, "Oh boy..."





Far north from Crystal Empire, Spike and Ember were leading the squadron of Crystal Royal Guards, in search of two Changelings.

"Spike the Brave and Glorious," Crystal Royal Guard #1 asked, "you've faced the evil changelings before. What can you tell us?"

"Oh, uh, well," Spike said uneasily and fearfully, "they are changelings, so they can...change."

Shaking her head, Ember rolled her eyes in amusement, "Smooth move, Spiketail. Smooth move."

Crystal Royal Guard #1 turned to other guards, "You hear that? These monsters can look like any of us, so be on guard, guards! Even more than normal."

"And they could be anywhere." Spike added in. Crystal Royal Guards nodded firmly. He smiled, "So we should cover as much ground as possible." He cleared his throat as he began giving instruction to the Royal Guards, "You, search on the left! And you, search the right!"

Royal Guards headed off to different directions - some went left while others went right. Thus, leaving both Spike and Ember alone.

"Wow. They're really 'good' at following orders." Ember remarked sarcastically.

"And... We'll... just search... here, I guess." Spike said uneasily. He laughed uneasily, "Guess I should have thought about it." He cleared his throat while smiling to Ember, "But thanks for accompanying me, Princess Ember." He yelped about his mistakes, "I mean Dragon Lord Ember!"

Ember giggled before giving Spike a kiss on forehead. "Just call me, Ember, Spike. After all, we're friends."

Looking at her beautiful scale and figure, Spike sighed happily, "Yeah, friends..."

"Anyway, we should check on the north part. We might find our little Changeling." Ember said firmly while looking ahead of north. She turned and smirked slyly at Spike, "I want to see how 'Spike the Brave and Glorious' handle it."

Snapped to reality, Spike cleared his throat, "Uh, sure. Whatever you say. No pressure."

Spike and Ember turned and headed to the north direction now...





While Princess Cadance, Sunburst, Starlight Glimmer and Sunset Shimmer looked after both Nyx and Flurry Heart at throne chamber; Shining Armor and Flash Sentry led the rest to medical wing. It was where Twilight Sparkle and her group gasped in shock and worry of what they see. They have never seen so many dead ponies on the tables while covered by big clothes.

"Oh my gosh..." Twilight Sparkle said in shock and scared.

Smelling the scent, Lance Justicestrike yelped while covering his nose, "I don't like the smell either. Be glad, Nyx didn't come with us."

Shadow Dragon was inspecting the dead ponies' bodies as he found so many of them got bite marks, slashes, claws, cuts, tore pieces, missing parts and decapitation. His friends also joined in to help him out on inspecting, though they were disgusted and disturbed by the scene.

Shadow Dragon hissed in concern, "Damn it. We'd definitely dealing with a psychopath. But this one is not a pony. It's something else did to these ponies."

"What could have done this?" Shining Armor asked in concern yet uncomfortable, "Think it's the Changeling?"

Twilight Sparkle shook her head, "I don't think so. Changelings never resort violence but trickery and shape-shifting to feed on love energy. But this one, it's more like a game to him."

"What? He was playing a game with us?" Lance Justicestrike asked in concern.

Flash Sentry shook his head, "No, Lance. She meant 'hunting for sports'. So, you're saying that we're dealing with a monster?"

"Yeah. Whatever it was, he hasn't left yet." Shadow Dragon said firmly as he turned and looked at his allies, "He's still here, looking for something. We need to be on guard. Can't be sure of what we're dealing with."

"Yeah. I agreed. Let's find and hunt him down," Shining Armor said in agreement, "He's not gonna kill anyone he likes while I'm still around."

Twilight Sparkle nodded, "Yeah. I don't want to know what he's planning or how he kills his next victims. He's not gonna get both Nyxie and Flurry Heart when I'm still around."





Ember and Spike continued walking to the north and couldn't find any sign of Changelings. And not to mention, it's getting cold and colder. But luckily, their scales was able to withstand it.

Ember hummed, "The Changeling couldn't have gone that far. There's no way he can withstand this cold weather much longer especially when they're hungry."

"Really? Why?" Spike asked curiously.

"They need love to feed. Without it, they will die in starve."

"Wow. You seem to know a lot about the Changelings."

"Yeah. Let's just say I learn about them from my class, especially the history lessons that involved of Dragon and Changelings."

"Awesome..." Spike remarked in amazement. He looked around of surroundings while hummed, "Not many places to hide. Unless that rock is a changeling." He turned and spotted a giant rock ahead of him. He 'interrogated' it, "Okay, rock. How do I know you're really a rock?"

"Because it is a rock," Ember said calmly. Spike turned and looked at her. She sighed, "Because I can smell their scent. And this is not one of them."

"Maybe. But I'm not taking any chance," Spike said firmly as he turned to the rock, "Well, you can fool me but you can't fool me!"

As Spike kicked the rock hard, he yelped painfully as he fell down hard. Unfortunately, he actually fell into a hole, making him screamed in fear.

Ember yelped in concern, "SPIKE!"

Ember dived down at once to save Spike. Both of them were sliding down a long cavern slide-like. Minutes have passed, they gasped upon spotting an ravine. Spike about to fell off the edge. But luckily, Ember grabbed him while her tail held a big stone tightly. They even took a glance at the abyss of ravine. They both sighed in relief.

With the help of her tail, Ember began bringing Spike up. They both panted heavily yet softly while looking at each other for the moment. They couldn't help but one thing to do. They grabbed and held each other as they both gave each other a long passionate kiss while moaning happily.

As both were enjoying their moment, Spike and Ember yelped in realization. They departed while blushing in red while cleared their throat like they have something in it.

Ember exclaimed frantically, "Sorry! Didn't mean it! I thought you have a heart attack-!"

Spike chuckled uneasily, "Yeah, me too! I thought you were fainted so-!"

"So, I thought I could help you out!" Spike and Ember exclaimed at the same time. They both laughed happily and amusingly while blushing in red, "I guess you don't need it."

"So... What's next?" Ember asked.

Spike sighed, "I guess we'd better find the guards. They, uh, do need us to protect them. After all I am Spike the Brave and Glorious for saving the Empire twice."

Ember giggled, "Okay. I'm gonna do some recon of how to get out." She turned and glanced at the hole that they came in, "Hopefully, climbing back up won't be the problem. Be right back."

Ember began climbing up the slides while doing some recons. Spike sighed as he was all alone.

"I guess that I'll heck around here," Spike said calmly before yelped in surprise. But instead of panicking, he sighed while looking at his reflection, "Just my reflection. Since I'm waiting for Ember, time to make own impression!"

Using his reflection, Spike began making impression, showing his moves and talking with smooth and nice to himself that will help him impressed Ember.

"Uh, Spike, what are you doing?"

Spike turned and found Ember was shocked and stunned. He smiled, "Just showing off my muscles with my reflection."

"Really? If that is," Ember said in concern while chittering her teeth and pointed her claw to the front, "Then, where is mine?!"

Spike turned back and found the reflection only has his, and not Ember. The 'reflection Spike' yelped in concern as he transformed into a familiar creature. This shocked and scared both of them to gasp and scream.

"Ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-changeling!" Spike and Ember shuttered in shock and fear, "[Spike] RUN! [Ember] ATTACK!"

As Ember readied to attack, Spike ran off. This surprised and shocked her and the Changeling. They even spotted where was Spike heading.

"Look out!" Ember and the Changeling shouted.

And just before he reacted, Spike slammed on the big rock. This make him dizzy and wozzy. He then fell off from the edge.

"Noooooooo!" Ember screamed in concern.

Surprisingly, the Changeling flew off and grabbed Spike by biting his tail. His action surprised and shocked both dragons. They couldn't believe of what they just saw. Nevertheless, the creature brought him to safety. Ember came and hugged Spike warmly.

"Don't ever do that again!" Ember scolded Spike. She sighed, "Twilight won't forgive me or even want my alliance if anything happens to you."

Spike smiled before hugging her, "I'm fine. Really."

"The ice is pretty slippery." The Friendly Changeling said sincerely with concern tone, attracting both dragons' attention to him. He continued, "I wouldn't want you to get hurt because of me."

"You... saved me?" Spike asked in surprise and amazed.

Ember nodded in agreement, "Yeah. I thought that Changelings are supposed to be evil... right?"

"Evil? Oh, not me. All I've ever wanted is a friend." The Friendly Changeling said gently.

He began to recall his lifetime during his service under his Changeling Queen, "From the moment I first split my egg in the nursery hive. "I was part of the attack on Canterlot during the royal wedding," He sighed with a smile as if he remembered something special, "but I'd never seen true friendship like Twilight Sparkle and her friends! And I couldn't just steal it and feed on its love. I wanted to share it!"

"After that, I knew I couldn't live with my kind anymore. I set off looking for love to share, but..." The Friendly Changeling said in concern and uneasily. The Dragons feel pitiful and upset while curious.

"Nyx said something about seeing a Changeling on the day of the Crystalling. I'll bet that was you!" Spike said calmly. The Changeling nodded. He asked, "And you were at Cranky and Matelda's wedding, weren't you?"

"Oh, that wasn't me. That was Kevin." The Friendly Changeling corrected.

Ember looked surprise and asked, "His name was Kevin? Seriously?"

"Yes." The friendly Changeling nodded. His stomach was growling, he hissed, "I'm starving! And there's so much love in the Crystal Empire right now. It's what drew me here! But it's drivin' me crazy!"

Ember hummed suspiciously, "Just like Sunburst said, the royal Crystalling must have given a giant outpouring of light and love for a new baby. Hearing what Ember has said, the friendly Changeling hissed wildly, scaring the dragons off. She snarled back at him, "Are you trying to bite us or something, jerk?!"

The friendly Changeling yelped, "Oh, sorry! I'm just so hungry! If I had a friend, maybe the love we shared could sustain me, but I don't think the Crystal Ponies want to be friends."

"I'm sorry. I wish we could help you, buddy," Ember apologized in concern.

Spike hummed thoughtfully, "What if I told you there was somepony they respect and admire so much, he could convince them to give it a try?"

Intrigued by Spike's question, both Ember and the friendly Changeling turned and looked at him. While the Changeling was confused and uncertain, the young Dragon Lord gasped in realization of what her friend was talking about.

"It makes perfect sense! Spike! You're genius!" Ember exclaimed. Spike smiled while the friendly Changeling was confused. She continued, "With him, Crystal Ponies will change their minds and follow your example. After all, you are Spike the Brave and Glorious. Everyone knows about it."

Spike nodded in agreement, "And you're the Dragon Lord."

"Uh no. Not me, but I was raised by an evil queen." The friendly Changeling explained, making dragon sweat drops on annoyance. He continued, "I'm Thorax. I can't believe you both want to help me."

"Why? Hasn't anypony ever just been nice to you?" Spike asked.

Thorax groaned, "Uh! Kindness like that kind of brings it out. Do you still wanna be my friend?"

"Of course! And I am one hundred percent sure I can get the whole Crystal Empire to be your friend too." Spike said confidently.

Unfortunately, Throax hissed wildly in scaring him off. Spike yelped in fear. The friendly Changeling closed his mouth tightly

"But... maybe I should just, uh, talk to them first." Spike suggested, "And you can come with us. Just be a Royal Guard."

Thorax muffled grunting while nodded in understanding. The Changeling turned into a Royal Guard. Three of them headed back to Crystal Empire now. During their journey, both dragons have their own secret conversation.

"Spike, are you sure he can be trusted?" Ember asked in concern.

Spike nodded firmly, "I may not be smart as Twilight or Saber, but one thing I learn from Boomer - trust my guts."

Ember giggled a bit, "He wasn't the first stranger you believe in."

Spike smiled, "Yeah. I know what you mean."





While Crystal Ponies were hiding inside their houses for safety, the Crystal Royal Guards were on patrol. They were securing the area while searching and hunting down the psychopath criminal. And so far, they found no one.

A small squadron of Royal Guards came to the alley's dead end. They were checking in the area. Unfortunately for them, something just dropped and attacked them. It ferociously and violent beaten, clawed and torn them to pieces especially biting and chewing their fleshes. After defeating its enemies, it took and decapitated the head off the body. Maul stood before them.

Maul chuckled evilly, "I love hunting these bugs. Make me so much better." He held his head up as he was drinking the decapitated Royal Guard's blood into his mouth. After finishing drinking, he licked his mouth, "That should be enough to attract the little couples' attention. And the fun is about to begin."

Maul scoffed, "If the guards aren't not enough, I'll just go ponies' house to get some attention."

Demon Changeling walked out of the alley as he turned and entered a small house. The eerily screams and shouts of fear and pain were heard especially the sounds of slicing and slashing. He even laughed evilly and insanely during his slaughtering.

"Come on! Don't make me to kill another flock of sheep, bitches!" Maul taunted amusingly before chuckled evilly, "Get it?! Kill another flock of sheep, but not ponies!" He again laughed insanely, "Ah! What the hell?! I'll just do it for fun until I come to the Crystal Palace! Hahahahahhahah!"





After regrouping the Crystal Royal Guards; the dragons and their Changeling Friend have returned to Crystal Empire. The dragons explained the situation to them, whom having hard time to absorb it and believe in. Thorax, in disguised as Royal Guard, watched and listened to the conversation.

"Defeating a changeling would be brave, but do you know what would be glorious?" Spike asked amusingly. Ember rolled her eyes in amusement while Crystal Royal Guards shrugged. He smiled,
"Not having to fight the changeling at all! Because I made friends with him."

Instead of cheering or commenting, the Crystal Royal Guards laughed happily and amusingly at it. Both Ember and Spike were annoyed by it while Thorax was upset.

"Hey! He's serious. He wants to be friends!" Ember exclaimed in anger, "Stop laughing!"

Spike nodded firmly, "I'm not joking! The changeling is nice!"

However, the Crystal Royal Guards ignored them while continued laughing.

"What are you laughing about?!" The firm and angry voiced demanded. Both Royal Guards yelped in concern as they stopped. They and Dragons turned to the front and found Shining Armor, Shadow Dragon and Flash Sentry entered the scene. The Lieutenant snorted in anger, "Prince's on deck! Atten hut!"

The Royal Guards quickly saluted firmly yet fearfully. Their three superiors entered and approached both Spike and Ember.

"Spike, what do you mean Changeling is nice?" Shadow Dragon demanded. Spike looked worry and concern while uncertain to answer. He sighed, "Twilight told me of what they have done to her and others before. And I don't think they're willing to befriend with us for friendship."

Flash Sentry shook his head, "No, they don't, senpai. They just want our loves to feed by any means necessary - lies and tricks."

"Yeah. Just like what the Changeling Queen Chrysalis did to us, she kidnapped Cadance and cast a spell on me especially making me betrayed and hurt Twiley. I'd never forgive myself for that." Shining Armor said dryly while narrowing his eyes in anger, "There's no such thing as a nice changeling."

Ember was about to argue, Spike stopped her while shook his head of not to say again. Thorax, feared and shamed of his kind's behavior, looked away from the ponies. Spike turned and faced to three stallions.

"You're right, guys." Spike said shamefully while looking down, "Sorry. That was a... bad joke."

Shadow Dragon sighed, "We're not angry, Spike. We just want you to be safe!"

"Dad! Guys!" Lance Justicestrike shouted and barged into the room. Everyone turned to him. He continued, "We've found the murderer! And he's the Changeling!" Everyone gasped in shock especially Spike, Ember and Thorax. He continued, "Not only that, it's killing ponies and guard especially drinking their blood. He's coming here!"

"W-What?!" Everyone asked in shock.

"That's impossible," Shadow Dragon protested, "Changelings don't drink blood!"

"Yeah. But let's find out," Shining Armor said firmly.

Everyone were heading off to deal with the Changeling now while leaving two dragons and Thorax behind for discussion.

Spike hissed softly, "Oh no. This isn't good."

"This just complicates everything," Ember agreed with Spike.

Thorax hissed in concern, "It can't be the Changeling. They only feed on love, not slaughtering the ponies. This isn't their nature."

Two dragons and a Changeling headed off and followed their allies to find out of what's going on.





Exiting the Crystal Empire Palace, Shining Armor and his group regrouped and reunited with Princess Cadance and hers. They were all facing at the Demon Changeling, who was swiftly and violently killing the Royal Guards at ease by decapitation, injuring and slashing by his Twin Killing Swords and bare hooves. He even ate the flesh and drank the blood of the dead.

Everyone find it disturbing and scary especially Nyx, who felt very sick and disgusted of the scene. Princess Cadance, Sunburst, Sunset Shimmer and Starlight Glimmer moved back to protect Nyx and Flurry Heart. Ember kept Spike close to her while helping others as well. The rest of their friends armed with their weapons in ready to fight.

"What kind of Changeling is that," Spike said in relief.

Ember nodded, "Yeah. I'd never seen this Changeling being so violent and wild."

"Oh no..." Thorax, still in disguise, quivered in fear, "Not him. Anyone but him!"

Seeing how he dealt with the soldiers, none of Crystal Royal Guards dared to charge and attack him but only prepared to strike if he makes the move. As the Demon Changeling laughing while approaching his opponent, he smirked and bowed before them.

"About time you come out and show your face," Demon Changeling said amusingly, "I was bored of eating meats and drinking wine alone..."

Shining Armor hissed, "What kind of Changeling are you?!"

"I think I know," Shadow Dragon hissed in concern, "He's a Demon Changeling. And only one, who caused some troubles, am I right, Maul?

Everyone gasped in shock and concern of what they just heard. Maul laughed and chuckled evilly and amusingly. They all still armed and readied to attack.

"You've guessed correctly, punk," Maul said amusingly and darkly, "Nice to see you here again, old friend."

Everyone was surprised and confused, Shadow Dragon groaned, "We're not friends. And I don't know you!"

Maul smirked evilly, "You will. You will..."

"I don't like the looks of this," Lance Justicestrike said in concern.

Flash Sentry hissed, "He's making his move. Soldiers, get ready!"

Crystal Royal Guards armed with their spears and swords in ready to attack. Shining Armor and his elite soldiers stayed close while protecting their family and friends from harm. Shadow Dragon summoned his Darkness Blade at once.

Maul screeched wildly as he charged right at Shadow Dragon, who made his move in blocking and deflecting the attack off. Both of them swung and struck their blades against each other while dodging the attacks for few rounds. They both have a long clash while glaring at each other. They quickly departed from the clash before charged in and engaged ferociously and determinedly for few rounds. And at the same time, Shadow Dragon and Maul received some scars and injuries from the blades they inflicted on during their duel.

The Crystal Ponies, including his loved ones and allies, cheered firmly and wildly for Shadow Dragon to win against Maul. Both ponies continued battling against each other for another few rounds. Thorax was feeling uneasy and worry about the fight especially Maul.

During the battle, Maul smirked and snickered amusingly as his eyes glowed darkly. Shadow Dragon noticed as he quickly backed off but instead, the Demon Changeling used his Twin Killing Swords in piercing on his opponent's shoulders, pushing him back. With his firmness and strength, the Dragon Warrior stood his hooves down hard in halting while kicking his enemy off.

Giving a loud battle cry, Shadow Dragon charged while swinging his Darkness Blade at Maul, who dodged them swiftly and quickly in high speed. And at the same time, the Demon Changeling violently struck his Twin Killing Swords back at him, who narrowly and barely escaped his opponent's blade during ten rounds. They both then have a clash while glaring at each other.

Shadow Dragon groaned, "You're stronger than I thought."

"That's because I know somepony's hatred of you, and it's making me even more strong. And that pony is none other than..." Maul complimented while turning and looking at a certain pony, "him!"

Everyone gasped in shock as they all turned and looked at Shining Armor. His hatred was responsible of powering Maul?!

"Me?! That's not true! I only dislike him..." Shining Armor exclaimed in disagreement, "a little."

"Is that so?" Maul asked amusingly. He chuckled darkly, "From what I've heard, you heartlessly disowned your own sister when the Changeling Queen took your wife's place."

Shining Armor groaned, "Why you?!"

Maul laughed evilly, "You heard me, princey! You're the disloyal yet foolish jerk brother for letting your little sister die in hell! You might as well married Chrysalis, your real bride!"

Angered by Maul's taunt, Shining Armor screamed in anger. His family and allies realized of what's going. And just before they could warn him, he charged out to attack the Demon Changeling.

But instead, Maul swiftly rolled over in passing by Shadow Dragon. He then swiped a kick on the hooves of white unicorn, falling right at Dragon Warrior to the ground. Both stallions groaned in defeat and painful. Everyone gasped in shock and concern.

"Till we meet again, suckers!" Maul laughed amusingly and evilly, "Your beauty will be mine!"

And as Crystal Royal Guards charged in at once; Maul, using his speed and swordsmanship skills, charged and slaughtered a few of them while escaping the battlefield. Only his evil laughter echoed across the Crystal Empire.

Shadow Dragon groaned as he pushed Shining Armor, "Nice going, Shiny. You've let him escaped."

Shining Armor snarled, "Shut up..."

Twilight Sparkle and her friends approached and helped the stallions up from the ground. They all asked if Shining Armor and Shadow Dragon were okay, which they replied that they are, although they glared at each other for ruining their chance to stop Maul.

Twilight Sparkle groaned, "If you two have work together well, then you all wouldn't have let that monster off! Honestly, you two need to get over it!"

"Aw, come on! At least, daddy and Uncle Shiny drove that Changeling off," Nyx said calmly.

Starlight Glimmer nodded, "Yeah. That's good news for once."

Shadow Dragon sighed, "Maybe. But he'll be back."

Lance Justicestrike scoffed, "The next time he comes back, we'll be ready for him. And this time, we're not gonna get beaten easily."

Flash Sentry chuckled, "That's a spirit, kid. We won't let that monster get what he wants."

"While you guys enjoyed boasting around about beating the monster," Sunset said dryly while pulling Flash Sentry's left ear hard. She pointed at the injured Crystal Royal Guards. She continued, "They need the doctor. And I doubt they can fight him with this kind of state."

Sunburst nodded in concern, "Yes. Unlike the Changeling, Demon Changeling feed and absorbed ponies' negativity feelings to boost their powers and strength. They're dangerous and violent creatures to deal with. This is the first time to counter them."

Princess Cadance nodded in understanding, "I agree. If we ever want to stop him, we must make some preparation now especially ensuring Crystal Empire is not in negativity states for him to feed. We also need to be alert of another Changeling. We haven't found it yet."

Everyone nodded in agreement as they all headed off and make some preparation. Shining Armor, Shadow Dragon, Flash Sentry and Lance Justicestrike headed to war council chamber for counseling and planning strategy. Twilight Sparkle and her group helped doctors in healing some injured soldiers while looking after the babies.

Only Spike, Ember and Thorax remained behind as three of them feel uneasy and concern of the latest situation. They all headed to Crystal Empire Palace's room for discussion.





Spike, Ember and Thorax were discussing of what they can do now. The friendly Changeling became more nervous and uneasy with it.

"What am I gonna do now?" Thorax asked in concern. He hissed, "After what Maul did, there's no way the ponies will open up to me."

Spike patted Thorax's back, "I'm sorry, Thorax. I really am. But I'm not giving up on this."

"Yeah. Don't worry. We'll get through it." Ember said confidently, "Just because Maul did worse, doesn't mean you have to be like him. We just need to show the ponies that you're not like him or your kind. But how?"

Thorax sighed, "Thanks, guys. But I doubt any of our ideas will work. How can you expect ponies who looks like this..." He transformed into a pale blue Crystal Pony with afro mane of darkish-blue and streak of lighter blue mane and tail while his cutie mark is a vase, "... to trust something that looks like this?"

"Good point..." Ember admitted, "It's tougher than I thought of coming up the idea."

Spike hummed thoughtfully while looking at Thorax's pony form, "I think I might know!"

Spike approached and told Ember and Thorax about his plans. Though skeptical of it, they both smiled and nodded that it might work. With their plan in motion, they left the room as they were about to head off.

"Spike!" Twilight Sparkle called, scaring Spike and his friends off. They turned to her, who was accompanied by Nyx. She continued, "My students and I could use your help. We're working on a protection spell for Flurry Heart, and nopony takes notes like you."

"Uh, actually, Twilight, I, uh, wanted to introduce you to my friend," Spike said uneasily and nervously while looking around of coming up the name for Thorax, "uh... Uh, Crystal, uh... Hoof! Crystal Hoof!" He chuckled uneasily, "My good friend, Crystal Hoof."

"Seriously?!" Ember and Nyx asked in shock and surprise.

Thorax or Crystal Hoof yelped ashe greeted, "Nice to meet you."

"Oh. Well, it's, uh," Twilight Sparkle asked curiously yet uneasily, "nice to meet you, too. How do you know Spike?"

"Oh, uh, Spike and I go way back." Crystal Hoof answered uneasily.

Spike added frantically, "To the Equestria Games! That's when we met. We've been pen pals ever since."

"Pen pals?" Nyx asked in surprise, "I didn't know you do one."

"Well, I..." Spike said uneasily, "I pretty much only write to him when you, Starlight and Sunset are... studying."

Crystal Hoof nodded, "I like to brag to all my friends about my letters from Spike the Brave and Glorious." He smiled, "Since he's here, I promised to take him and his girlfriend around the city."

Spike and Ember yelped while blushed in red, "She's/I'm not his/my girlfriend!"

Three of them laughed uneasily and nervously. Ember became very uneasy about the idea. While Twilight Sparkle smiled and laughed at the joke, Nyx looked suspicious on them.

"Well, I'm sure we can manage, if you want to spend time with your friend. Let's go, Nyx," Twilight Sparkle said calmly as she took Nyx away. Both of them walked away. She noticed her daughter's looks, "Is something wrong?"

"I don't trust Crystal Hoof. There's something going on them," Nyx said suspiciously and dryly, "I feel it."

"Come now, Nyx. Spike wants to spend some time with his new and especially his big time crush on Ember. Let's leave them to their privacy. Unless you're jealous, sweetheart."

"I am so not! I'm just worry about Spike. He's not himself."

Twilight Sparkle giggled, "That sounds familiar. You used to sound like me when I get worry about your uncle during his wedding."

"So am not!" Nyx protested while her face burnt in red.

Ember sighed, "That was close. You really need to come up with better names. You might rouse some suspicious around us."

Spike smirked, "They did fall for it, right?"

"They sure did," Thorax agreed, making Spike smiled while Ember annoyed. He smiled, "So, what's next, guys?"

Spike smiled, "You're gonna love this one."





Just as they planned, 'Crystal Hoof' took Spike and Ember out for the tour around Crystal Empire. He was amazed and happy as it was his first time to set on the city without scaring the ponies off about him. They were sightseeing around the city, befriending and chatting with Crystal Ponies and even giving Spike's autographs to them.

As long the dragons are with him, Crystal Ponies get comfortable and friendly towards them at once. Everything went well and smooth. Nothing goes wrong...





"You still haven't found her?!" Dark Curse demanded angrily via communication portal Maul has created to contact him. He continued in anger, "and yet you're still fooling around for your amusement and entertainment?! You're unbelievable fool!"

Maul hissed in annoyance and anger, "Chillax, boss. Everything will be fine. Trust me."

"And how do you intend to achieve this mission, Maul? I have ten plans that could get the things done quickly and easily at once."

"I've got a plan to kill two birds with one stone. Besides, my sense and communication with them has been off since they left me dead. And not to mention, I am a Demon Changeling. But I know a little Changeling can help me find them while I have my own time to play with them."

"What do you mean? Care to explain?"

"It's quite simple and effective too. Or did I tell you that I also found out that the traitor, Starlight Glimmer, is among them?"

"I'm not interested of that mortal anymore. I leave her to Amon to deal with. My main concern is to ensure our master plans complete success, without distraction and failure. Understand?"

"No problem, boss. I'll get it done."





The dragons and Thorax returned to Crystal Empire Palace after they all have great time in taking a tour around Crystal Empire.

"This place is everything I've ever dreamed of!" Thorax/Crystal Hoof exclaimed happily. He then whispered to the dragons, "But I can't keep pretending to be a Crystal Pony forever, can I?"

Ember hummed in concern, "Thorax got the point. Too much love could overwhelm the Changeling, and he could easily get exposed to the ponies. Best that we go back to room for a rest now."

Spike smiled proudly, "Relax, guys. Thorax, you're winning them over. Pretty soon, nopony will care that you're a changeling."

"Spike! Dragon Lord Ember!" Princess Cadance called, surprising both dragons and Crystal Hoof.

Three of them turned and approached her and their friends. They bowed before her. Princess Cadance looked firmly at Crystal Hoof.

"Twilight told me you were off with a friend." Princess Cadance said calmly, making the dragons and their friend uneasy and nervous. She continued with a smile, "And any friend of Spike the Brave and Glorious is a friend of mine."

Princess Cadance eventually led Crystal Hoof close to her baby. The dragons stayed close to him. Three of them looked at Flurry Heart, who was cooing happily at them. They all smiled at her.

"Oh, she's so beautiful! There's so much l-love around her...!" Crystal Hoof said uneasily and frantically as his eyes glowed brightly and wildly, "I... I...!"

Unable to control his powers anymore, Crystal Hoof transformed back to Thorax while hissing wildly and frantically. Everyone gasped in shock and concern of what they saw.

"Damn it! It's a Changeling!" Shadow Dragon exclaimed in shock.

Flash Sentry whistled, "All units! Defend the royal baby now!"

Shining Armor, Shadow Dragon, Flash Sentry and Lance Justicestrike armed with their swords while surrounding the Changeling, along with their Royal Guards. They all approached and marched slowly towards their targets.

Thorax hissed uncontrollably, "I... I'm so... sorry...! I can't... Can't... stop!"

Twilight Sparkle hissed, "Spike! Ember! Get away from the changeling!"

Spike protested, "Wait, no! You don't understand!"

"This one means no harm!" Ember supported Spike's claim.

Before Spike and Ember could protested further, Twilight Sparkle and her students levitated and pulled the dragons away from Thorax.

"This changeling replaced your friend to get close to the baby!" Sunburst insisted, "What other explanation could there be?!"

"I..." Spike said uneasily.

"Get ready!" Shining Armor and Shadow Dragon exclaimed firmly.

Shining Armor, Shadow Dragon and their army were armed and readied with their weapons while targeting at Thorax.

Ember hissed while turned to Spike, "Spike! Tell them now!"

"I..." Spike said uneasily and concern while looking at Thorax being defenseless and weak. He sighed in defeat while looked away, "...I don't know."

Both Thorax and Ember was in shock of what they just heard and saw. Spike abandoned the Changeling?! How could he?!

And just before anyone could do anything, Ember fired her Dragon Flame in pushing the ponies back. She then flapped her wings while grabbing Thorax at once. Everyone gasped in shock of what they saw. They both flew off at once.

The ponies recovered from the attacks while looked up. They found both the changeling and Dragon Lord disappeared from their sights.

"Dragon Lord Ember betrayed us?! Why?! How could she?!" Twilight Sparkle asked in shock, "It doesn't make any sense?!"

Shadow Dragon hummed in concern, "I don't know. But we will find out soon!"

"Find Dragon Lord Ember and the Changeling!" Shining Armor ordered angrily and firmly, "I want them found and captured alive!"

Flash Sentry nodded, "You heard him! Move out now!"

Royal Guards headed off at once; with Shining Armor, Shadow Dragon and Flash Sentry leading them. They have to find and hunt their targets down. They even left their remaining allies behind.

Princess Cadance hummed in concern, "I hope your friends are okay."

"Hopefully, there's explanation behind Ember's action," Twilight Sparkle said in concern yet calmly, "If it's really her."

Spike sighed in shame, "Yeah... Me, too."

Nyx noticed Spike's behavior and sigh. She hummed calmly while narrowing her eyes as she has some suspicious about the dragon's. She nudged her older brother. She whispered to him in secret about Spike, which he nodded in understanding and agreement.

Unknown to them, Maul has overheard the event behind the entrance of throne chamber. He smirked proudly and amusingly.

"Just how I plan. Just need to find him for re-connection to my kind."





Spike left the Crystal Palace and found Royal Guards were spreading across Crystal Empire in searching and hunting down the Changeling. Three stallions were leading the operation. Seeing what his action has done, Spike felt ashamed of his action to his two friends. He wish he could have done something right.

Spike sighed while clenching his fists, "I've gotta do it right! And I know where they are."

Spike ran off to find his friends. As he was passing the warehouse, something grabbed him into it. And then, he got beaten up by punches to the ground for few times. This made him cringed, yelped and screamed painfully and agony for few rounds.

After some punches, the attacker stopped at once. Spike moaned and groaned in pain. His face looked badly bruise and pain.

"Okay, I deserve that much," Spike admitted in shame. He groaned and looked up as he found both Ember and Thorax glaring at him. He gulped, "Hey, guys?"

"Hey to yourself, punk!" Ember snarled in anger at Spike. She growled, "You've got lots of nerve of showing your face around especially what you did to him!"

Spike hissed, "I didn't mean it, Ember. I was... I was worry and scared."

"About status - hero of Crystal Empire?! Losing your face to them about the truth?! Which is more important, Spike?! Friends or Fame?! Because last time I check, you chose the latter over the former. I'm disappointed and angered by your betrayal! And I can't believe that I even call you 'my lovely friend'. And you were actually expecting me to believe and pity you?!"

"W-What do you want me to do?"

"Doing what is right. That's what you did before at Gauntlet of Fire. And I can't believed you've forgotten about it."

Spike looked down in shame, "Ember... I didn't mean to... I just..."

"Spike, I'm the not one, who you need to apologize..." Ember said dryly as she helped Spike up. She turned and looked pitifully at sad and upset Thorax, "It's him."

Spike sighed, "I guess you're right, Ember."

Spike approached Thorax, who hissed and snarled at him, making the dragon worry and fear.

"Go away!" Thorax hissed angrily, "Leave me alone!"

Spike hissed in shame, "Thorax, please. Let me apologized and help you. Please?"

"Why do you think I would let you help me?" Thorax demanded, "I'm an 'evil changeling'!"

Spike sighed, "Because you're my friend. I just wish I had been one to you."

Shocked and surprised by Spike's sincere, Thorax turned and looked at him with both shame yet pitiful looks. The Changeling approached and hugged Spike passionately. It surprise yet relief him to hug his friend back. Ember smiled in relief and happy to see it.

"It's okay, I know it's hard. Everyone in the Crystal Empire loves you." Thorax said calmly as he departed from hugging Spike, "I couldn't ask you to give that up for me."

After some thinking, Spike shown his determined looks, "You don't have to ask." Both Ember and Thorax turned and looked at him. He sighed, "What I should've done in the first place."

"Too bad! It would be too late for you to handle it!"

And just before trio could respond, Maul dropped and slammed them down hard. He turned and took a bite on Thorax's neck, making him screamed in pain. The greenish aura from Changeling's horn slowly transferred to Demon Changeling's with crimson aura glowing. Maul put Thorax down hard.

"Thanks for the gift, Thorax." Maul smirked amusingly, "And now, I've got one more thing to do. To get Twilight and the baby!"

This shocked and scared Spike and his friends off. Maul flew off at once. They all struggled while groaned in pain as they slowly stood up recovery.

"W-We've gotta stop him!" Spike said in concern. Ember and Thorax nodded. He groaned, "We can't let him hurt others!"

"Ah-ha! I knew it!"

The trio yelped in surprise and shock as they turned and found Nyx and Lance Justicestrike stood before them.

"I did see you at the Crystalling! I was right all along!" Nyx exclaimed happily.

Lance Justicestrike looked surprise and shock, "So you're a friendly Changeling."

"Yes, he is! But we've gotta go now!" Spike exclaimed in concern, "Twilight and her friends are in trouble now! We need to stop Maul now!"





SCREAM! Maul has yest again defeated and slaughtered the Crystal Royal Guards while marching towards Shining Armor, Shadow Dragon and Flash Sentry, who remained firm and ready to strike back. Twilight Sparkle and her group readied for the defense while stayed close to the baby, who was taken care by Sunburst.

Maul chuckled amusingly, "You really want to challenge me? You're gonna lose again."

"Even so, you're not gonna get Flurry Heart!" Shining Armor exclaimed in anger.

Shadow Dragon nodded in agreement, "Yeah, we won't back down easily, asshole!"

"Ooh! Me like it," Maul said amusingly while looking at Twilight Sparkle. He smiled while licking his lips, "I would take a pleasure time with her."

Twilight Sparkle was disgusted and annoyed, "I rather have my time with my boyfriend than you!"

Maul chuckled, "Don't make promises you can't keep!"

"Shut up!" Shadow Dragon and Shining Armor exclaimed in anger.

Both of the stallions charged and engaged with Maul, who dodged and swiftly block and deflect the attacks for few round around of his surroundings. While Demon Changeling distracted by stallions, Flash Sentry joined in by jumping high and thrusting his spear at his target's head. Unfortunately, Maul quickly slammed his Twin Killing Sword in blocking Shadow Dragon's and Shining Armor's while grabbing the spear by his crossing back hooves.

Three stallions were surprised and shocked by Maul's movement. Before they could react, the Demon Changeling swung both spear and Flash Sentry in knocking Shining Armor and Shadow Dragon before throwing the Pegasus to the entrance door. He jumped and flipped over to his standing position. He charged right at the rest of his prays.

Both Sunset Shimmer and Starlight Glimmer moved to the front in firing their Unicorn Bursts at Maul, who deflected the beams aside for ten rounds before the last beams hit on them. He continued charging. Twilight Sparkle and Princess Cadance used levitation spell in levitating and holding him. Unfortunately, he spitted some sticky slime on their faces, causing the girls to yelping and screaming heavily before he jumped and knocked them both.

Maul then turned to frightened and worried Sunburst, who was holding Flurry Heart. He smirked amusingly while making a sound of 'boo'. The wizard yelped in shock before fell to the ground.

"Wow. This is so easy, thanks to you all giving me negative energy. It's very nutritious and delicious," Maul commented amusingly. He turned and held Twilight Sparkle up by neck. He licked her face, it disgusted her. He chuckled while looking at Shadow Dragon, "I'm gonna enjoy. Watch the birdy, old friend."

And just before Shadow Dragon could react, Maul landed his tongue into Twilight Sparkle's, he began licking and interacting with hers. She groaned as she struggled in pushing and knocking him out Everyone gasped in shock yet disgusted and angered by it. They all shouted angrily, though injured and wounded by him to move.

"So delicious... You're the one," Maul chuckled amusingly as he continued wrapping and licking her tongue, "My perfect mate and queen to laid our Demon Changelings."

Everyone groaned in anger and annoyance by his remark especially Shadow Dragon, Shining Armor and Twilight Sparkle. They really don't like it at all.

"Not gonna happen!"

And just before anyone could respond, Nyx and her friends appeared behind Maul's back via teleportation spell. They all charged and pushed him out from licking Twilight Sparkle. They all charged and engaged him fiercely and relentlessly, however, he swiftly blocked before punched and knocked them off one-by-one easily.

Maul sighed, "Seriously? Charging at me? That wasn't smart move."

"Neither your boasting your ego isn't smart too," Shadow Dragon said dryly. Maul looked around as he found himself surrounded by his enemies and the enemy troops. He scoffed, "And you should know that your feeding time is over."

Sensing love and firmness in the ponies, Maul groaned in anger and defeat as he was surrounded. Despite of the fact, he smirked amusingly.

"Well, played. But fun ends here. I've got a work to deal with. Until next time," Maul said calmly before turned and looked at Twilight Sparkle, "I look forward for our mating season."

And just anyone could react, Maul threw some smoke bombs down. It unleash the smoke, making the ponies coughed heavily. As soon as smoke dispersed, Maul disappeared from everyone's sights. They all chatted and commented in relief that they defeated the Demon Changeling.

Shadow Dragon turned and glared at Thorax, "We've got one more to deal with."

Shining Armor nodded, "Yeah. I agree. Let's finish this."

The ponies turned and faced at the frightened and worried Thorax. And just before they could do anything; Spike, Ember, Nyx and Lance Justicestrike came to his aid while blocking them from approaching and hurting the Changeling. The ponies were surprised by their action.

"You want him? You have to go through me!" Spike said firmly.

"All of us!" Ember corrected Spike, "We won't let you hurt our friend!"

Though not exactly best friends, Lance Justicestrike and Nyx supported it as they nodded in agreement. Everyone gasped in shock and surprise of what they just heard. The dragons and the children stood up for a Changeling?!

Spike marched towards the ponies as he began to sing about him being worthy to be hero. They all were doubted and unconvinced by Changeling being a friend.

Spike: Would you say I'm a hero
Glorious and brave
If I told you something you wouldn't believe?

Spike recalled of his early action for not defending Thorax especially forcing Ember to fend the ponies off to save him while escaping them.

Spike: That sometimes I'm scared
And I can make mistakes
And I'm not so heroic, it seems

Spike pleaded ponies to accept Changeling be friends but none accepted the fact.

Spike: But if day can turn to night
And the darkness turn to light
Then why can't we imagine a changeling can change?

Ember, Lance Justicestrike and Nyx came and comforted Thorax after what he has been through from his former hive and here at Crystal Empire. Spike sang about his strength and weakness especially as he comforted Thorax.

Spike: No two ponies are exactly the same
No two snowflakes ever match their design
And I thought I was strong
But I was nothing but wrong
When I forgot to be friendly and kind

Spike continued pleading and begging to change and accept Thorax, but still the same results. However, both Shadow Dragon and Twilight Sparkle began to have second thoughts about the Changeling especially Mystic Pony knew about not being accepted in society.

Spike: But if day can turn to night
And the darkness turn to light
Then why can't we imagine a changeling can change?

Spike again questioned his ability as a hero and the ponies' willingly to try. Both Shadow Dragon and Twilight Sparkle couldn't help but to feel ashamed of their action.

Spike: Would you say I'm a hero
Glorious and brave
If I told you something you wouldn't believe?

Spike turned and approached to Thorax as he held his new friend's hoof tightly and firmly. Ember, Lance Justicestrike and Nyx stood by his side as well.

Spike: This changeling, it seems
Knows the real me
And would stay by my side 'til the end

Spike firmly stated that Thorax can be friends and change for the better. While the ponies refused, Starlight Glimmer alone finally agreed with Spike about changing. Both Shadow Dragon and Twilight Sparkle accepted the fact.

Spike: So if day can turn to night
And the darkness turn to light
Then why can't we imagine
Just why can't we imagine
Then why can't we imagine a changeling can change?

Spike looked at the ponies. The results is the same as ponies still ignorant and have hard time to believe in the fact. Nevertheless, Twilight Sparkle and Shadow Dragon approached Spike. He and his friends were in concern and uneasy of what comes next.

Twilight Sparkle smiled, "Spike, I'm so proud of you."

"You are?" Spike asked in shock and surprise.

"She's right, Spike," Shadow Dragon said firmly. Twilight Sparkle hugged Spike passionately. He continued, "You're a celebrity here in the Crystal Empire, and you just risked all of it for a friend! I can't imagine anything more brave than that. My father always said that 'true strength lies within the heart'."

Twilight Sparkle turned and faced her friends, "As the Princess of Friendship, I try to set an example for all of Equestria. But today, it was Spike who taught me that a new friend can come from anywhere. I guess everypony still has things to learn about friendship. Even me! And if Spike says Thorax is his friend, then he's my friend too."

Ember, Lance Justicestrike and Nyx smiled in relief and happy that Twilight Sparkle is willing to accept Thorax as her friend. The Changeling cried joyfully of finally being accepted in society. He shook both Twilight Sparkle's and Shadow Dragon's hooves gently while thanking them for it.

"On behalf of the Crystal Empire," Princess Cadance declared, "I would like to extend my hoof in friendship, and I'm sure all of my subjects are eager to do the same."

Instead of protesting, Crystal Royal Guards cheered wildly and happily that they're willing to accept him, not by their leader's order but willingness. Princess Cadance levitated her baby to Thorax, who was surprised by it and worry that he may scared her off. However, Flurry Heart cooed happily, making him blush and smile at her.

Shining Armor approached Thorax while showing smile, "Welcome to the Crystal Empire, Thorax. I'm sorry we didn't take the time to get to know you. Maybe we can change that now."

"Wish you could do the same thing with me," Shadow Dragon remarked dryly, "All you did is being a jerk to me. After all, you can be a liar and pain to my ass."

Shining Armor groaned angrily while giving death glare at Shadow Dragon, "Watch it!"

Thorax laughed happily but smiled, "That'd be so amazing! I want to know all about friendship, and maybe one day I can take that knowledge back to the Changeling Kingdom! If my kind learned how to create love for one another, maybe they wouldn't have to take it from others! I'll start with Kevin. He did says he loved making friends."

"To Spike the Brave and Glorious! And his girlfriend!" Flash Sentry and Sunburst cheered.

Spike and Ember blushed in shock about the cheers. And just before they could protest, Crystal Royal Guards cheered as they held the dragons and the Changeling up. Instead of arguing, three of them smiled and enjoyed their moments.

"You know what? Twilight's right from the start," Sunset Shimmer commented.

Twilight Sparkle looked surprise, Starlight Glimmer smiled, "Friendship lessons can happen anywhere."

"Yeah. I guess you're right," Twilight Sparkle smiled.

Noticing his father's uneasy face, Lance Justicestrike approached and asked, "What's up, dad?"

"Is something else bother you?" Nyx asked in concern.

Shadow Dragon sighed in defeat, "Is something what Maul has said? What could he mean 'got a work to deal with'?" He hummed uneasily, "So, targeting the baby and Twilight weren't his objective."

"You could be right." Lance Justicestrike nodded in understanding, "What else could he be after?"

Flash Sentry joined in, "Yeah. I've got a bad feeling about this..."





At the frozen wasteland, Maul arrived at the middle of nowhere while his horn glowed in red like he was communicating and signaling someone. He looked up and found a couple of ponies approaching him. Instead of fearing him, they all smirked amusingly and proudly. They all transformed into the swarm of Changelings especially Queen Chrysalis was among them.

"Hello, son," Queen Chrysalis greeted.

Maul smirked, "Hi, mom. Shall we begin our negotiation?"

Queen Chrysalis laughed amusingly, "Let us now, Maul..."

END...

Review and Suggest...

Main Casts:
Cathy Weseluck: Spike
Ali Milner: Dragon Lord Ember
Kyle Rideout: Thorax
Troy Baker: Maul/Swipestrike
Tara Strong: Twilight Sparkle
Matt Lanter: Shadow Dragon

Minor Casts:
Jesse McCartney: Lance Justicestrike
Kira Tozer: Nyx
Rebecca Shoichet: Sunset Shimmer, Crystal Pony 2
Kelly Sheridan: Starlight Glimmer
Andrew Francis: Shining Armor, Guard 1
Britt McKillip: Princess Cadance, Crystal Pony 1
Vincent Tong: Flash Sentry
Ian Hanlin: Sunburst, Guard 2, Crystal Pony 3
Lathan Gaines: Dark Curse

Cameo:
Kathleen Barr: Queen Chrysalis