The party was about to begin. Pipsqueak had arrived with the CMC and had talked for hours with Spike. Pipsqueak promised Spike that he would join him when his education is finished. Spike had told him it was completely fine. The CMC had made the same promise. They had been shocked to see a changeling, but Spike explained it away and they relaxed. They had left to check out the city.
Fancy Pants was walking through the city and spotted Spike walking towards him with a smile on his face. Fancy Pants smiled back and walked up to him and they hugged each other. "Oh, Spike my good friend! How i have missed you. How have you been?" Fancy Pants asked, Spike who felt overjoyed to see his friend again. He didn't even know what to say. He was simply happy.
"Oh, it has been great. I'm happy to see you to. How have you been?" Spike asked, Fancy Pants who looked genuinely happy. He nodded a little and had a look of sadness on his face. The place they were chatting on was on a sidewalk, and creatures were walking around celebrating. Some creatures were driving on the roads.
"I will admit, I haven't been as happy since you left. When I heard Spike's Liberation Front had been founded. I was happy, I started to become a sympathizer, and I donated as much money as I could for their cause. I would have joined them, but I'm in my years and I don't have the proper training for the military hard work. I do help them though, with keeping their weapons in my garages and storerooms in my companies for safe keeping." Fancy Pants said, making Spike nod in understanding.
"Understandable, well, I have built up my own nation! Well, I committed a coup in other words that was relatively easy, but you get my meaning." Spike said, making Fancy Pants nod. Spike then decided to walk for a bit with him, and showed him with his arms the pathway to walk. Fancy Pants smiled, and nodded.
They walked down the sidewalk, and noticed some cars drive occasionally by. The buildings were tall and proud, and made the nation look ahead of its time. Fancy Pants was amazed by the country. It looked so futuristic, and insane! Spike was really good leader if he has managed to build up all of this. Fancy Pants was most definitively buy a house or expensive apartment here and live here after Fleur De Lis' case has been truly solved. He was not gonna let Sparkle win something without actual evidence that suggests that Spike really is the killer.
"So, how have Equestria been? I have heard from my brother; Pipsqueak in all but blood that Equestria has gone to Tartarus." Spike said, making Fancy Pants laugh a little. It was true, Equestria had gone to absolute Tartarus. He had visited Ponyville a couple of times that had become the capital of gangster activity. Pipsqueak ruled Ponyville with an iron hoof, and because the gangsters were Spike followers, they were then allowed to commit their crimes.
"Yes, although the last remaining of the element bearers are trying to make Ponyville go back to how it was. If i'm honest, they are quite desperate. They have been pleading for quite a bit for the gang and terrorist activity to go down. Although, because of what happened to you, I highly doubt that it will go down anytime soon." Fancy Pants said, making Spike nod with a smile on his face.
"We should probably head towards the castle, I can show you your room there." Spike said, making Fancy Pants nod his head in agreement. They walked in silence with the exception of cars driving by and their steps. Spike was happy. A good friend of his was here in Badlands, and was gonna celebrate with him of their victory!
They closed on to the castle, and it could be seen throughout the Badlands, as it is the largest building in the whole land. In fact, it might be the largest castle there is in Equestria and beyond. Spike was understandably proud of it. He had used his whole magical strength to get this castle. Although, sometimes he noticed how he did certain things and knew what was gonna happen despite being the first time trying it... probably was just a coincidence. Spike and Fancy Pants reached the large powerful castle, and were greeted by the guards. Spike gave them a bow, and Fancy did the same. The guards bowed in respect for their leader and his guest.
The guards opened the gates, and it rustled as the guard pushed away the gates to allow their leader and guest passage. Spike walked side by side with Fancy Pants who seemed a little frightened by the powerful castle. Spike couldn't blame him, if he'd still be that little servant to Sparkle, then he'd feel frightened to. He was always a slave...
Spike shook away the thought. He wasn't a slave, but he wouldn't be surprised if he was considered one. When they reached the front double doors, they were greeted by another set of guards who had bow, arrow and spear. They nodded for their leader and guest, and two guards opened the door for them. Spike simply walked inside followed by a wide eyed Fancy Pants. The entrance hall looked marvelous! The ceiling was decorated with the most expensive diamonds there is, and it was glowing a faint light that reminded him of princess Celestia...
"Spike, sorry for questioning you my friend, but that golden glow in the ceiling remind me of Celestia." Fancy Pants said, making Spike nod in understanding. Spike had intended for that, because some of the guests that were visiting were light. Now, the light in the ceiling is neutral, but looks can be deceiving...
"Yes, I do apologise Fancy Pants. Although, this castle was built through dark dragon magic, and because of the darkness, I needed something that would help those who has both dark and light magical cores. The core up there is actually neutral and can be felt throughout the castle. I didn't mean for it to remind you of the princess." Spike said, making Fancy Pants wave it of. He wasn't angry, he was simply curious is all.
"I'm not angry Spike, I was simply curious." Fancy Pants said, as he looked at the walls that had been painted with grey coloured roses and to the sides of the double staircase that lead to the bedrooms and other rooms. The roses had drops that looked like to be blood or suppose to give that illusion. "I like this hallway, it makes everything seem powerful."
Spike nodded. He had intended to make it that way. It had cost him quite a bit, as he didn't want to use magic. It had taken time, but it was sure worth it. It wasn't long for until the guests would arrive. Spike looked at his watch, and saw that it was exactly three hours until the guests would arrive. "Follow me my friend, I need to show you your room." Spike said, as he lead his friend up the marvelous wooden staircase that felt more like stone. Spike walked up with elegance and a sense of power. Fancy Pants found it funny. Spike wasn't probably aware that he was doing it.
Spike lead him through the long hallways that had black coloured wood, and very dark red wood. The ceiling was dark blue. But, the whole thing felt more like it was all coloured in black. Might aswell have been. Spike then opened a door where the numbers thirty four were. Fancy Pants walked inside and was amazed by what he saw. The room was decorated in a lighter shade of blue, and the ceiling was enchanted so you could see the sky. That was something Fancy Pants would enjoy as he enjoyed looking at the stars rather then the sun... there was a double bed for him and his wife, and the bed covers were painted in purple which reminded him of Spike's scales. There was a large bathroom with a bathtub that looked more like a pool. The floors were covered in a red mat that made Fancy Pants feel like he was near royalty. Well, he has, but this was a different feeling.
"Liking the room i see," Came a voice familiar to Fancy Pants and saw it was Fleur De Lis. What Spike had forgotten to tell him, was that the golden glow along with the dark magical castle; had a tendency of making creatures hallucinate. Fancy Pants completely forgot that his wife was dead, and simply nodded towards her. "Well, you do remember that I'm dead right!?"
Fancy Pants looked at the fake Fleur De Lis with shock. Dead? What was she talking about? Fancy Pants then realized that his wife was dead. He looked at the fake Fleur, and said coldly; "Who are you?" The fake Fleur grinned like a crazy mare. She had expected that question, and hoped for it to come. She enjoyed taunting this stallion...
"I am Cali, although, you might not believe it as I am a mere myth. But, you must believe it, as I can't lie about what I am." Cali said, making Fancy Pants look at her confusedly. There was a tale about a pony called Cali who was said to be the best illusionist. She had made shows around Equestria, and this was before the princesses' time. Not even Starswirl The Bearded existed at this time. Cali was said to have looked for power to become Equestria's best illusionist, and one day, she stumbled upon a tomb that had ancient writing on it. Fancy Pants don't remember the symbols, but he knows that its a language only those who study necromancy knows. It's said that Cali touched the tomb that was somewhere in the Changeling Forest as it is know in the modern times. She was then turned into a bug-like creature with bug wings and a long alicorn-like horn. She had been a normal unicorn, but now; she is what would be known as a Changeling.
"So the legend is true, you are the first Changeling," Fancy Pants said, making Cali grin wider if possible. "Although, I must say; I'm not a fan of one of your descendents whose name is Chrysalis." Cali cackled like a mad Changeling.
"I know, I was there when it happened. You see, I watch over all of my descendents. I helped Chrysalis succeed in her little campaign, although, I knew she was gonna lose so it wouldn't have matterd if I helped her or not." Cali said, making Fancy Pants a little frightened. She didn't sound like she regret it either. "I'm sorry for looking like your dead wife, but you see, I have to have a pony form or Changeling form when I meet somepony or creature. I needed to warn you about Spike."
Now she had Fancy Pant's attention. What was she talking about? What had Spike done? "Cali, what has Spike done that is so bad to the point where you turn into my dead wife, and make me feel depressed?" Fancy Pants asked, with malice. Cali chuckled. This was gonna be a joy filled moment.
"Well, there are two things actually; one, he has created concentration camps against those who has tried to defy him. Some creatures have come out alive, others have not.. the second thing is; he is possessed by The Pony Of Shadows." Cali said, making Fancy Pants look at her as if she had lost it. The first one he knew Spike would never do. The second one however... he couldn't say anything about that one. In all honesty, this was the first time he'd seen him since his banishment.
"Shocking huh? Can't blame you, I was pretty surprised myself that he did all those things without even hesitating. Then again, he seemed to have been possessed ever since he was banished. After that, he got an armor that further corrupted him. There is one more thing that he needs to collect before he is fully corrupt, the only problem is; I have no idea what it is. Shadow Pony had a tendency of hiding things in places and locations not even known by the princesses' themselves." Cali explained, making Fancy Pants look at her. He was getting convinced that Spike was possessed but the whole concentration camp thing doesn't make sense. Why would Spike do so? Yes, it was because they have defied him in some way, but he didn't expect Spike to genocide creatures simply for doing so.
All of a sudden, there were footsteps approaching the door. Cali looked at Fancy Pants who looked at the door. "I can't stay, but do know this; Spike is dangerous. Don't let him find the final piece whatever it is. If he does, then he might be lost forever." Cali said, as she disappeared like smoke. Fancy Pants looked at where she had once stood and sighed. He hadn't noticed that Spike had walked away, but apparently he had. Spike came through the door a few moments later, and smiled at Fancy Panrs who smiled back.
"Sorry, I had to go away for a few moments, I didn't mean to leave you like that." Spike said, making Fancy wave it of. He had an very interesting conversation anyways...
"It's no problem Spike, I actually didn't notice until I heard footsteps. I like the room." Fancy said, making Spike smile widely at him. He took pride in his own work. Sometimes Spike cleaned and cooked because he want to do something.
"Okay, well, the party celebration is starting in thirty minutes. I'm going go and prepare for the celebration. Do you want to come with, or do you want to relax?" Spike asked, kindly. He knew that Fancy is still hurt by his wife's death and didn't want to force him to do anything. Fancy Pants thought about it, and decided to come with.
"I'll come. Although, I will go back to my room here, and change into a more formal attire." Fancy Pants said, making Spike nod in understanding. Spike himself was gonna put on a more formal military suit for himself to show that he was the leader of this glorious nation.
Spike and Fancy Pants walked together through the halls of the castle. There were several lights up in the air, and there were several different types of decorations. On the outside of the castle were different country flags that included; Badlands, Crystal Empire, Changeling Kingdom. There were also different group flags like; Spike's Liberation Front and Spike Republican Youths. On the inside was a Ball room where the celebration would be held. The Ballroom was a large room enough to fit the whole Dorcha guards, and they were many! Spike and Fancy ran into Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie who was working the different musicals and decorations. The Ballroom looked more alive with the different colours that was well suited for the celebration. Spike and Fancy Pants continued to walk for a little bit, and then went to their separate rooms to get changed.
The party was in full swing. Everypony and creature were enjoying themselves and they were happy. Spike was gonna have a speech and they were all excited to hear what he had to say. The CMC wore identical dresses that were red and made their filly sized bodies look perfect in them. Pinkie Pie was wearing a commanders outfit just like Vux. Their suit was black and had a few medals on them. Fluttershy was wearing her green dress that she had when she was on the Grand Galloping Gala. Pipsqueak was wearing a commanders outfit just like Vux and Pinkie Pie. Vux understood completely why Spike made him a commander. They are brothers in all but blood, it was understandable.
There were food and drinks at the party, and there were guards everywhere. They still hadn't caught the last of the element bearers and Spike wasn't taking any chances. Spike was very protective of his followers and those who believed in him. Speedy was one of those ponies. Speedy had actually become an officer for the Dorcha guards stationed in the Crystal Empire. There were several ponies and different creatures at the party, and princess Cadance and prince Shining Armor was one of those ponies. They had been formally invited and decided to celebrate with their dragon relative. Shining still saw him as a little brother. Cadance still saw him as her cousin despite everything he had gone through and done. If she just knew what he was doing behind their backs...
All of a sudden, the double doors opened to the Ball and every creatures eyes turned to the doors. There stood Spike Dorcha in all his mighty, in his commanders outfit that looked more powerful than his normal commanders. Everypony and creature bowed down in his presence. Spike walked inside the room with his black trench coat swinging from each step he took. He had a weapon in his trench coat just in case his ex friends would try something. He walked with purpose and reached the small stage they had made for him. He looked over the creatures in the room with a smile.
"Hello everypony and creatures. Today, is a historical day for us all. You see, a few hours ago, the soldiers of Spike's Liberation Front liberated the Crystal Empire together with the help of the Dorcha guards. But, we are yet to defeat our worst enemy; princess Twilight Sparkle. She didn't believe me when I said that I was innocent. Don't get me wrong, there wasn't a whole lot of evidence, but I have been her longest friend; which then technically means she should know that I would never do such a thing! But I was wrong, it appears that I was deceived by a lie. But, it is no matter. We will murder their soldiers, burn their homes, and make princess Twilight suffer. They will know that Badlands is not to be taken lightly! Now, I have a guest that you might like. You see, he helped with the Battle Of The Crystal Empire. Can we welcome Speedy up to the stage?!" Spike said, and was met with several applause. Speedy walked up to the stage and shook hands with Spike who simply smiled at him, and nodded. This would be an interesting speech. Speedy checked the microphone and began to speak into it.
"Hello everypony and creature. As you may know, I'm the leader for Spike's Liberation Front. I'm proud to serve Spike The Brave And Glorious. I hope that I will be able to make him proud of me, and-" Speedy was never going to finish his speech as he was shot in the head. Ponies and creatures screamed in fear and shock.
"GUARDS, LOOK FOR THE ASSASSIN'S NOW!!" Spike yelled in a terrifying version of the Canterlot voice. The guards immediately nodded and took of. All of a sudden, another pony fell down dead and Spike felt his heart sink; it was Fancy Pants. He had been shot right in the head. Pipsqueak ran up to Fancy Pants' body and looked to see if he was alive. He looked at Spike and shook his head. Spike felt rage. Who would do something like this.
"Everypony and creature stay calm! I will have one of my guards escort you out of the building." Spike said, making the other creatures and ponies nod. Shining ran up to him, quickly followed by princess Cadance.
"Spike, what is going on?!" Shining asked, making Spike look at him as if he had lost it. How was he supposed to know? His soldiers hadn't even spoken to him. Cadance looked around everywhere, but didn't see anything.
"I don't know, but whatever it is, they will pay for killing two good friends of mine." Spike said, making the two Crystal rulers nod in agreement. Spike walked with purpose out of the Ball room and walked outside of the castle. There was no chance that he was allowing criminals to escape his land. No, they would be feeling scared when they saw Spike. And perhaps he was right. Perhaps they would be feeling scared.
Spike looked around everywhere of the Badlands capital city and was about to give up, when he saw four ponies run away in hoodies. Spike ran as fast as possible towards the location. Spike had seen them enter an ally that was dark and frightening. There were blood on the walls. But nopony knew if it was real or not. Spike in all honesty didn't care, and was only going to try to catch the murderers. He saw them teleport from one building to another, and Spike chuckled a little. These ponies reminded him the last remaining element bearers. Spike chuckled. "Impossible, my guards would have noticed if they reached our glorious nation." Spike muttered to himself.
Spike jumped from building to building, following the ponies. He was gonna catch these assassins and make sure that they are punished severely. He wasn't gonna allow his friends murderers walk away as if nothing big happened. He was gonna make them pay with their lives. The ponies teleported at a speed that made Spike smile a wicked smile for each second that went by. He liked these ponies. They gave him a challenge, but he still hated them. Spike then remembered that he had a pistol in his trench coat, and everything slowed down. The ponies were running on top of a apartment roof and Spike was on the very same roof, and saw how they prepared for another teleportation. Spike aimed at the unicorn, and fired his shot. The bullet flew through the air, and it landed right on the unicorns side. The unicorn screamed in pain, and Spike thought he recognised that scream, but he shrugged it of. He was gonna catch them now. Although, he was to late, they had teleported right after he had shot his bullet at the unicorn.
Spike walked up to where the blood was, and looked down at it. It was quite a lot of it, and Spike smiled a wicked smile. His pistol was in his right paw, and he placed the weapon in his holster in his trench coat, and pulled out a vial instead. The vial was long, and was made out of glass. Spike crouched down and used his left claw to hold the vial, while he used his right claw to use magic to he doesn't get stone with him. The blood started to levitate into the vile, and when he was done, he walked away. He knew that the ponies either went back to Equestria, or some other place that he didn't rule. The roof he was on showed most of Death Valley, and Spike grinned. He then teleported himself back to the castle.
When he reached the castle, it was in complete and utter chaos, his guards tried to calm everypony and creature down to no avail. Cadance and Shining were looking confused as to what to do. They would try to calm them down like they dow to their own subjects, but this isn't their nation. Although, Spike wouldn't have minded one bit. Everypony and creature calmed down when they saw that Spike was there. One of his guards rushed up to him. "Your highness, we have tried to calm everypony and creature down, but they are understandably scared. Sadly, we weren't able to catch the ponies." The guard said, making Spike nod.
"Understood soldier. I have this vile with one of the assassins blood. Could you possibly check to see who it belongs to?" Spike asked, making the guard nod and take the vile. The guard ran out of the Ballroom, and headed for their science lab as that was the only place where they could identify the blood. Cadance and Shining walked up to him with concerned faces.
"Spike, who did this?" Cadance asked, making Spike sigh in sadness. In all honesty, he didn't know. Perhaps he did, but just didn't want to satisfy that thought. His mind was a blur in what he believed in.
"It was ponies. I could detect that there was at least four of them. I wasn't able to catch them, but I injured one of them, making them bleed. I took a vial, and placed the blood inside of it, and I just sent one of my guards to see who it belongs to." Spike said, making the two Crystal rulers nod in understanding.
Pipsqueak walked up to Spike and was about to ask if he was okay, when the same guard from before rushed inside the room. "Your highness, the blood belongs to princess Twilight Sparkle." The room went deadly quiet. Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie felt their hearts stop for a full ten seconds. The CMC froze up hearing the name, and Pipsqueak only growled in anger. Spike didn't know what to feel. Shining Armor looked down towards the hard wood floor. Cadance didn't know what to say.
"It seems like she has become the serious enemy to our nation." Spike said, as the others were to frozen in shock to say anything.