//------------------------------// // Chapter 8 - What I say // Story: Hail to... MY Horde? // by Emo Rainbow //------------------------------// Fluttershy stood with her arms crossed nervously as she watched Snake Eyes inspect Zecora as thoroughly as he possibly could. The zebra was sitting on one of the infirmary beds with her arm outstretched as the medic lifted and twisted it in every way he needed. He checked her pulse once more, tilted her head to the side as he inspected her for any infections or cysts, then checked her eyes, ears, and mouth as best as he could without a light on hand. Finally, Snake Eyes reached down and felt around her stomach. Everything seemed fine at first until he applied pressure and felt a very hard object within. “Is that… are you feeling any discomfort?” He asked Zecora nervously, but she just shook her head calmly. “Ok then,” he replied with a gulp as he tried to remove his hand. Right when he did though, he felt the foreign object within move ever so slightly, causing Zecora to shiver from the sensation. Snake Eyes tried his best to hide his disgust and pushed the feeling of the writhing worm out of his mind. “So,” Fluttershy spoke up as he stepped away and put what little materials he had into a medic bag the dogs had generously provided for him. “How is she?” “Well, she seems healthy to me… for the most part. The most important thing is that there hasn’t been any significant change from last time.” He said while trying, and failing, to tear his eyes away from Zecora’s gut. Luckily, he managed to snap out of it when she gave him a curious look.  Fluttershy gave an uneasy sigh as she mulled over Zecora’s health, then shook her head in exasperation. “Thanks, Snake. I’ll call you again in a little bit.”  Snake Eyes let out a long sigh and grabbed onto his small medic bag. “Yeah… listen, as much as this has got me on edge, and believe me when I say that it does, me and Show Stop have a lot of work to get to. Unless there’s a major change in her behavior or pain reception, please just keep your calls for us to a minimum.” Fluttershy wanted to refute the idea, but she could see the heavy bags under his eyes. He had been working nonstop even before leaving the cave, so if she could save his time by listening to his expert opinion, she figured she’d better do it.  “You got it,” Fluttershy said with a nod as she patted his shoulder. “But just to be safe I’ll make sure to keep her here for a bit longer.” Snake Eyes left for the exit, leaving a small bit of silence in his wake. “Rather funny, is it not?” Fluttershy turned towards Zecora, who had finally spoken up since the exam started. “I’m the one ‘injured’, but neither cared what I thought,” Zecora said with a chuckle as she smiled up at Fluttershy. It wasn’t often one could hear passive aggression in Zecora’s voice, but when they did it was definitely a cause to shiver. Fluttershy cringed for a moment and dropped her shoulders before responding. “Listen, I know you feel fine, it’s just… I care about you,” Zecora turned to face her while laying one of her legs on the bed in a half-crisscrossed fashion. “We have no idea what that thing did to you. I just think we need to give it some more time before we say ‘all clear’.” “How much time will it take my friend? 10, 20 hours? Days on end?” Zecora gestured towards her, rotating her hand as she rattled off examples. Fluttershy shook her head in protest, but Zecora just seemed to scoff. “Don’t be like that. You know as well as I do that the last thing we need right now is to be taking chances,” Zecora raised an eyebrow condescendingly and Fluttershy rolled her eyes. “You know what I mean. Taking chances when there’s no other option is completely different. You would have done the same in my position.” Zecora shrugged her shoulders and sighed. “Maybe not, maybe so. Your decision was all your own,” She put her hand against her chin in thought and smiled up at Fluttershy. “Perhaps the reason you want me to stay is so that you can be the leader for one more day?” Fluttershy physically recoiled as Zecora suggested such a ludicrous thing, and wasted no time in refuting it. “No, no, no, no, no, the last thing I want to do is be in charge right now. Trust me, I’d love nothing more than for you to go back to leading us,” Fluttershy looked off to the side and shivered. “But no matter what I want right now, I still can’t give the okay yet. So as long as I am in charge, I say you're staying here. At least for one more day.” Zecora settled down for a moment and narrowed her eyes at the girl, but before long she gave her a knowing smile and sat down even further into the bed. Fluttershy didn’t like that look one bit. It was a look she’d seen many times before, and it always meant that Zecora was planning something that she wouldn’t like.  The conversation naturally died down, and in that time Zecora looked past Fluttershy to the other beds still filled with ponies in deep sleep. Fluttershy followed her gaze and lowered her ears in shame. None of them had moved since they’d been found, and suddenly she was struck by another reason Zecora might not have wanted to stay there any longer. She really couldn’t blame her for that, but that was why she would personally keep her company for as long as she needed.  It would go hand in hand with watching her for any medical changes, so really, it was for the best. There wasn’t any other reason for doing so, and if somepony were to suggest that she just wanted to make herself scarce until Zecora was cleared then that would just be slander. “Fluttershy,” Zecora suddenly spoke in a soft contemplative voice, knocking Fluttershy out of her thoughts. She flexed her hands for a moment, then rested one on her abdomen where the wound once was. "Isn’t it strange how we are still here, after what that alicorn had told us in fear?” Fluttershy’s eyes widened as she thought back to that strange alicorn who had come just before the attack. She had barely even thought about it over time, but now she was suddenly flooded with questions. “What did you see in her?” She asked after remembering that ethereal glow she gave off when covered in Zecora’s solution.  Zecora shook her head and clenched her fist. “The presence of her soul, neither tainted nor marred. It proved that she came from a world much like ours. I knew from the moment that I could see that we were the ones who should not be.” Fluttershy shook her head while a pit formed in her stomach. “Then we shouldn’t be here. Everything should be back to normal like that alicorn’s world, right? So why are we still here?” Zecora looked at her with great uncertainty, a look that one did not see often from the wise Zebra. “What could be the reason for…” She stopped as she realized that something new showed up only a few hours after the alicorn had vanished. A new set of creatures that they had never seen before who magically showed up to save them, and have always known exactly what to do when the time called for it. Fluttershy looked down at Zecora who nodded in agreement after coming to the exact same conclusion. “It is a coincidence that cannot be ignored. The appearance of the locust and their fearsome warlord is perplexing indeed, and a vexing new lead,” Fluttershy started to pace back and forth as she muttered to herself, but Zecora stopped her in her tracks. “You must stay focused, take a moment to pause, we do not know if the locust are a symptom or the cause.” Fluttershy nodded and calmed herself down. “Yeah, you’re right. For all we know that mare could have been killed on the way back to her world, trapping us like this forever. Still, it doesn’t change the fact that all of… this shouldn’t exist anymore.” They both fell silent as they sat in thought until Fluttershy continued. “Their king was talking about wanting to return to his world, so as far as we know he really has no idea why they’re here. I know you have a theory about the Everfree pulling things from different worlds into it, but now I’m starting to think it might be more than just a theory.” Zecora nodded and opened her mouth to elaborate, but before she could she was interrupted by the sounds of heavy footsteps approaching from just outside of the room. They shifted their attention towards the noise and jumped when they saw one of the locust, the one wearing a weird spider-eyed helmet, entering with Snake Eyes leading him in. "Just this way, haha," the stallion said nervously while trying his best to stay out of the beast's line of sight. The locust turned to him and snarled with his thick yellow teeth. "Alright, glad to help, see ya!" "No!" The locust screamed, stopping Snake Eyes in his tracks. Fluttershy tensed her muscles in anticipation while keeping an eye on the locust's movements as Zecora stood up and assumed a similar stance. They found out first hand just how violent he could be once they arrived at the den, but thankfully the other locust were there to keep him in line as he threw his tantrum over Celestia knows what. She never thought she’d see those strange creatures defending her and her ponies, but she had a feeling it wasn’t entirely out of good faith, more so out of obligation to their leader. "You are a medic?" Snake Eyes nodded while standing as straight as a board. "Then stay." The locust walked past the other patients with his eyes glued to the two mares in the back and stood before them in a menacing fashion. He let out another growl of disgust as he inspected them from top to bottom, clenching his fist angrily as he did. He continued to stare and seethe in silence, but unlike many others both Fluttershy and Zecora glared at him with matching intensity, and not a hint of fear. “What in Tartarus do you want?” Fluttershy asked him as she stepped forward menacingly. He gave no response. “What? Did you come out here just to glare at us angrily? Did somepony take your cupcake?” She said with a jeering tone. The locust got visibly angrier after she mocked him, but Zecora stepped in and placed a hand on Fluttershy’s shoulder. “Now, now, dear Fluttershy. That is no way to get by,” She then looked at the Locust as well while nodding her head calmly. “Pushing buttons to harass, will get us nowhere fast.” Much to Fluttershy's surprise, the locust dropped his shoulders and let out a heavy breath through his nose. She followed suit and gave Zecora a nod of respect. She should have known that if anypony could calm down a situation, no matter who was involved, it’d be Zecora. "What has brought you here, my friend? Is it a helping hand you wish to lend?" Zecora calmly asked, eliciting a scoff from the grey-skinned creature. He turned to the side and looked down at the unconscious ponies in the beds behind him, then cracked his neck in preparation. "My King sent me. To make sure you are… alright. Have everything you need." He answered bluntly and with every word dripping with disdain.  'And he sent you for that? Clearly, our ally isn’t as cunning as he initially seemed.' Fluttershy nearly said out loud, but a quick replay of Zecora's words of wisdom, words she'd heard only a few seconds ago for Celestia's sake, forced her to quell the sassy comments. "Well, I'd say we're fine for the most part. What I think we need most right now though is some answers." She then gestured her head towards Zecora. The lights on his helmet dimmed a little, almost mimicking a blink of some sort, as he turned towards her. "Of course, the striped one is fine. The worm simply…" he let out another growl before continuing, and this one sounded like he was in a tremendous amount of pain when he tried to talk. "Linked her to our shaman, Krogg. It saved her life… and cost his." Fluttershy and Zecora shared an uneasy look, with the Zebra’s turning more towards guilt. “I’m… sorry for your loss.” She said with a sigh of resignation. She knew all too well what losing someone close could do to a pony.  There was a small respectful silence that followed the news, but Chorsus continued. “The worm will not harm. Only help.” He said while gesturing to Zecora. “What do you mean exactly?” Snake Eyes finally chimed in, his fear taking a back seat to his curiosity. “The worm was formed by Krogg’s strength, filled with imulsion. As it dissolves within, his strength will be your strength. In a way… you will be locust.” Their faces dropped in shock as they heard this new revelation. With nopony looking more surprised than Zecora. “What does this mean? What will it do? Is the worm within going to make me… like you?” Zecora asked nervously before quickly regaining her composure. Chorsus growled at her and snapped his head to the side in quick denial. “No! If it made you like us completely… I would have killed you sooner.”  “Okay, fine, she won’t turn into a weird gray mole creature,” Snake Eyes interjected, finally pushing past his fear.. “But what about the inside? Will she grow a second heart? Start hearing the worms in the dirt? Just how ‘locust’ is this going to make her?” He asked while making air quotes around the name of his species. “Most answers died with Krogg. All I know is it will not cause her harm, and as time goes on she will become stronger. She will undergo a vast change. The extent of the change is unknown. This is not something the locust do very often. For many reasons,” Snake Eyes grabbed onto his mane in frustration and turned away from him. “This action is the highest blasphemy, one that would bring death to all who would practice it. It is known only by the strongest of the Kantus, so not even the king would know the final outcome.” Fluttershy rubbed her chin in thought as she tried to find an answer to this growing concern. “Is there a way to reverse it? To get it out of her before it finishes dissolving.”  Chorsus let out a deep laugh as she asked this. “We could cut it out!” He said while curling his fingers into claws. Fluttershy glared at him, but he just slowly lowered his hand in amusement. “Trying to remove it might work, but it would be very painful. Would you like me to show you?” “Oh no, I think I have an idea of how to do it,” Fluttershy retorted as she stepped closer to him. “I might need a test run though. Care to volunteer?” Chorsus stepped forward as well, resting his hand atop the pistol on his leg. “Enough!” They all turned to Zecora as she suddenly screamed at them to stop. They all backed up in fear as they saw the once white parts of her skin glowing a faint yellow just as they did the night before. “You are acting like children, constantly threatening each other when there are far more important things to focus on. I am going to be changed, and it is either that or death. Now let us stop wasting time and find a solution before I knock some sense into all of you!”  Zecora’s bright skin illuminated the entire room, and to everyone else, it was like she was some sort of creature out of Tartarus. Despite her skin glowing as it did, her stripes remained as black as the night, leaving her looking like a striped demon that even Chorsus had to pause to question. “I didn’t even do anything,” Snake Eyes whispered solemnly. Eventually, her skin dimmed back down as she took deep and calming breaths. Everypony stared at her as if she had just grown a second head, and eventually, even Zecora looked down in confusion after what had just transpired. She sat on the bed silently and nodded her head at Fluttershy. “I… believe you are right. I need more rest. I think that might… be for the best.”  Snake Eyes shook his fear away and quickly resumed his medic mode, walking past Fluttershy and Chorsus to start helping Zecora. As he took to comforting her, Fluttershy looked to Chorsus with a determined glare. “You said this type of thing would bring death. That all of this was serious blasphemy? How does your king feel about this?” Chorsus grunted in disdain but answered her nonetheless. “Despite what you think, I am kind. The king does not know, and so long as he does not, she will be safe.” Fluttershy gave him a skeptical look. She knew for a fact that he didn’t keep it a secret out of the kindness of his heart. There was something else motivating him to do this, she just didn’t know what. The entire premise that Zecora’s life hung in the balance could have been entirely fabricated, she just didn’t know enough to confidently call it out. The only thing she could do right now was roll with it, then try and find more information to help Zecora. She looked back at the zebra and sighed at the shocked expression on her face. Whatever that worm was doing to her, she didn’t like it. That meant that, until further notice, it was probably best for Fluttershy to stay in charge, at least until they found a way to fix her. “Alright, I guess we’ll keep this under wraps for as long as we can. But in the meantime,” She pointed to the locust. “You are going to find a way to fix her, that doesn’t involve killing her. Got it?” “But of course,” He said with a chuckle. “After all, I hate this just as much as you,” He made his way back to the entrance of the room, then turned back towards her. “The king will make an address soon at the main hall. I suggest you and your ponies be there.” And with that, the foul creature left. Fluttershy watched the empty doorway as she contemplated what to do next, but she was interrupted by Snake Eyes’ voice. “Well? What do you think about what he said?”  Fluttershy scoffed and turned towards him and Zecora. “Yeah right, I’d sooner ask Chrysalis out for a cup of tea than trust that thing, or any of them, really.” The news was startling, but Fluttershy was confident that they’d find a solution soon. They always did in the end. “I’ll learn as much as I can about this. Their king trusts me well enough, so maybe I can divert his attention and find gaps in that thing’s story. The sooner we get Zecora back to normal, the sooner we can continue with the plan.” She finished with a confident nod. Snake Eyes on the other hand gave a less than confident nod. “And what if we can’t get her 'back to normal’?” Snake Eyes’s question threw Fluttershy out of her rhythm, and forced her to look down at the shaken Zebra. She really did make it sound so simple, but what would they do if they couldn’t find a cure? She paused for a lot longer than she thought she would, and eventually responded with the one of the worst answers imaginable. However, it was the only one she had. “We’ll… cross that bridge when we come to it.” Snake Eyes’ jaw dropped as he heard her half assed response, but regardless he gave no rebuttal, only a sigh. “If you say so.” I stand at the top of the steps before the large stone throne where Warble once sat. Thirty minutes goes by fast when you’re spending all of your time freaking out, huh? The room is filled to the brim with Diamond dogs of all shapes and colors. Perfectly separated into two large groups with a long empty path in the middle leading straight up to me. Say what you want about these guys, but they sure know how to keep themselves organized. That’s honestly the last thing I expected from Diamond dogs of all things.  Along the sides of the steps leading up to me, are the wretches at the bottom, Roc and Chorsus at the middle, and finally Verus and Warble standing on either side of me. All of the locust are standing as still as statues, holding perfect posture while the crowds continue to chatter amongst themselves. Along the walls and edges of the large audience are Diamond dog guards with their rudimentary armor and spears. They are… much less disciplined than my locust to say the least. Once I get this done I think I should finally let Verus have his way with them.  I can see a few more dogs trickling in near the entrance of the hall, but by the looks of it, I think we’re just about ready. I spent some time preparing what I was going to say, but I just wish I had more time to practice. Warble did say that these dogs are pretty stupid, with a few exceptions, so I should be good with pretty much anything. Still doesn’t change how nervous I am. I wonder if Verus can tell, what with him being right next to me. I look in the back once again and watch as several ponies wander in, with Fluttershy leading the group. Just like Chorsus said, they arrived a bit late, but they arrived nonetheless. I guess that means we can get this started. Soon, all of the chattering slowly falters out as all of the dogs look up at me expectantly. I remember when I said that the ponies or the locust lookin at me was the most terrified I’d ever been in front of a crowd. Boy, how young and naive I was two days ago. I look to Verus and nod, allowing him to take the introduction like he insisted he do. With a face like that, how could I refuse?  “Hear this! Inferior creatures of this hole!” Oh yeah, you know what that is Ben? No, what is it? It’s Instant Regret! Brew it and be ready for existential dread in as little as ten seconds! “Bear witness to the all-knowing king of the horde. Stand in awe as he takes his rightful place as your master!” Roc and Chorsus let out a hearty grunt as they smack their chests while the wretches screech into the air. I turn to Verus with the fakest smile imaginable on my face. “Thank you, Verus, so very much,” I say through my teeth as I try to remember what the hell I was even about to say. I step forward as the dogs shift their attention to me… all of them. Their eyes… "Uhh… My newfound sub… jects." What was I going to say next? Oh god, my heart! Focus man focus! Not now! Suddenly, much like my first day here, a calm feeling washes over me. My mind suddenly feels a little numb as something clicks for me. I think… I know what to say, or at least how to start. "Hear this, dogs of the den! I, Benjamin Coigne, stand before you as your new leader. Know that I will not tolerate insubordination of any kind and that my rule, as well as my orders, are absolute.” They begin to murmur, and suddenly I begin to feel that ever-present feeling of doubt. That’s way too much. I’m not here to subjugate them, I’m just in charge for the time being! Come on man, think! “Me and my associates, as many of you may have realized, are not of this world. We are known as locust, creatures bred for war, but that does not mean you must fear us. So long as we remain here, I will be just, and I will do my best to uphold the customs of your people.” Okay, not bad Ben. They seem to be nodding a bit. I wonder how much of this they’re getting? NO, NO, NO! You’re being too soft, you’re the leader. We’re the leader! They’re not paying attention, how do you expect them to obey us if they do not fear us! “If you think I will be allowing this hole to continue like the stone age, however, you are sorely mistaken. There will be many changes here, and all of them will be final as of my decree!” That’s more like it let them know that we are the strongest, most capable lead- Shut up, shut up! I wouldn’t say that? Would I say that? What do I say next? Stop getting off track, you idiot! “Of those changes though, my den supervising official Warble shall also assist,” I point to the previous alpha who nods and waves before shooting me a worried glance. Can’t say I blame him, I must look and sound like a mess right now. I just need to wrap this up already so I can hide for the next eternity. “You know that your previous alpha was supplanted by myself, but his cooperation speaks volumes to his devotion to the den, and all of you. With him by my side, I will ensure that my power is not abused, or twisted to bring ruin to your way of life, “And please, should any of you have suggestions or grievances, do not hesitate to bring them to me or my locust. Together, we will have a path that not even the changelings could tarnish. To the new Hollow!” Yeah! Stuck the landing. I jam my fist into the air and smile, but the only noise I hear is the small group of ponies in the back clapping. Soon, they too fall silent as they realize that not a soul is joining in their applause. The dogs all just look around in confusion, making my smile falter. Were they put off? Oh, who am I kidding, of course they were but were they this put off? Oh god, I fucked it up didn’t I? I’m so screwed! Suddenly, Warble steps in front of me and clears his throat before facing the crowd of dogs. “He’s leader now. Do what he says,” He says while pointing to me, and immediately the crowd of confused dogs smile and ‘ahh’ in realization. After that, there’s a round of joyful applause that fills the room. I look to Verus in disbelief, and even he looks at me in utter shock over what the heck just happened. “Remember boss, toddlers. You gotta break it down real slow for them. Good speech though.” He quietly whispers while patting me on the back. I chuckle and hold a hand to my forehead as I shake it. Of course, here I was freaking out, making an ass of myself on stage, and arguing in my own head as per usual when none of them even understood what the fuck I just said. I just hope I didn’t come off as a weirdo for all of my locust, which, I know, is a strange thing to say considering what they are and all but the point still stands.  Who am I talking to?  “Yes, all good. I will respect you if you respect me and my locust. For now, go back to work, but I need to see head dog in charge of Guard!” It takes a second, but my slower and simpler tone of voice seems to do the trick as the crowd of dogs starts nodding and heading out, while a singular eggshell white dog steps forward and approaches the steps. I nod to Fluttershy in the back signifying that I want to see her too, then make my way down the steps As I pass each of my locust along the way I begin to hear their footsteps joining in behind me. God, I must look so cool right now, or intimidating, quick stick your arms out like you’re the messiah. Oh yeah, the ponies backed up for a second after seeing me, good call Ben.  Why Ben! Positive feedback? I don’t get a lot of that. Well, can’t have any downs without a few ups, right? That’s… a little worrying to hear you say. We’re at the bottom of the stairs now, let’s just talk about this later. “Thank you for coming,” I say to the head dog. He looks very stylized and cartoonish, with shorter fur and a shorter snout than what I expected. It’s hard to tell what kind of breed he is if any, but he does seem to be significantly less muscular than many of the other male dogs around here. I wonder why? “Alpha… king? Which one?” He suddenly asks with a calm and somewhat analytical voice, even if I can sense a hint of broken speech in his inflection. All things considered… yeah, that was certainly not what I expected to hear from this guy.  “Uhhh… your pick I guess?” Wait, your pick? That isn’t a kingly answer! I cough into my fist and try again before he has a moment to choose. “I am fine with either, though king is how I have been referred to most of my life.” Ha! If only. The dog nods with a hand against his chin and looks over to Warble. “You trust?” He asks in a very simple manner, and Warble nods with a grin. “My king it is! Me Borg.” He suddenly responds with an enthusiastic bow. I think I’m starting to understand which one was the ‘exception’ as Warble put it. “Alright then,” I chuckle and start heading towards the room in the back where Warble and I fought. “Roc, Chorsus, you and the wretches stand guard outside of the hall leading to the room. No one is to come in unless I say so.” They nod in understanding. Fluttershy suddenly looks over to the small group she’d brought with her and parrots what I said more or less. “Shamrock, Amethyst, you’re with me. The rest of you can get back to it.” A grey Earth Pony stallion and Purple unicorn mare nod while the rest shuffle for the exit in the back. Alright, things are going well. After a short walk down the hall, we enter the room where the pods were found. The holes had their weird indents filled up, thank god, and the table was thankfully replaced as well. No chairs though, so I guess this is going to have to be a standing party. That’s fine though, they’re usually standing in the movies and junk.  “Okay ladies and gentlemen,” I say as I take a head position at the table and place my hands on it. Verus immediately joins me to my left, and from that, the others get the point and surround the table as well. It’s a bit cramped since it seems to be an average kind of dining table, but it’ll do for now. “There are many things to discuss, so me and Warble will be going through the most important matters first.” Okay, Warble, this is what we’ve been preparing for. Your time to shine.  With his head held high, Warble narrows his eyes and starts to speak. “We don’t know much about the changelings, they’re a tricky sort by nature, but luckily we dogs have had our fair share of run-ins with them in the past as they hid in the Everfree. Nothing major, but enough to know how to avoid them.” Oh man, he’s taking a dramatic pause and letting the ponies get acclimated to his speech. Well, I guess this guy knows a thing or two about acting, he is a changeling after all. Who knows how long he’s been fooling the dogs anyway. “From what we know, there is no way to awaken the ponies we found in the den. They were placed under some kind of spell that won’t let us do anything. Our only chance is to find another changeling and get them to talk. If they can’t end it themselves, they’ll know how to.” “Wait, wait, wait,” The stallion Shamrock suddenly interrupted. “Are you telling us you still haven’t found the changeling responsible for this?” Me and Warble share a look of uncertainty. I fully expected them to call it out this soon, but it still feels pretty weird putting a plan I’ve only talked about into action. “Of course not. We found him alright, but unfortunately, we can’t talk to the slippery bastard yet,” Warble explains with perfectly feigned remorse in his voice. The ponies don’t look too happy despite this though, especially not Fluttershy. “When we cornered him he encased himself in a large cocoon. It’s too thick for us to get through, at least for now, so if we want those ponies to wake up sooner rather than later we’ll need another changeling.” “Now hold on,” I say while gesturing up to him, he looks at me with concern, but he turned a bit faster than I would have liked. He nearly turned before I could say anything. Overall though, good reactions Warble. I almost feared he forgot the part where I offer my assistance. “The weapon on my back, my lancer, has a powerful cutting tool attached to it. Maybe that could get through?” I take a side glance at the ponies and can see them beginning to relax. So far so good, although I don’t like that look on Fluttershy's face. What is she thinking so hard about right now? “I don’t know,” Warble answers truthfully. “Changeling cocoons are something else entirely. It might just break your weapon altogether.” I narrow my eyes at him and lean closer. “I understand that, but I at least have to try,” I turn back to the ponies. “In the meantime though, if such a thing cannot work, I suggest we at least devise a plan for capturing a changeling. I believe you and your ponies’ expertise will be invaluable in that endeavor.”  Everything falls silent, and the entire time Fluttershy remains in her deep thinking state. “Uhh… yeah!” We look over to her unicorn companion Amethyst as she nervously speaks out for her. “We know a thing or two about finding changelings. We’ve captured some before, but it’s not easy. Luckily as one of the few unicorns who’s survived the attacks I’m the right girl for sniffing them out.” She said with a smirk while pointing at herself with a thumb.  I nod in her direction with a smile. I like this girl’s attitude. “Very good miss Amethyst. We will be in good hands with you on our side,” I look over to Borg who also seems to have been deep in thought. Unlike Flutters though he turns to me attentively. “How many of your dogs have had more than one fight with the changelings?” He hums in thought for a second and lets out a frustrated exhale. “We don’t fight changelings. Not purpose. If they see us we run. Only one has fought is Warble.” For the first time since we spoke about the cocoon we couldn’t break, Fluttershy raised her head and stared directly at Warble. Oh shit, quick smooth it over Ben! “Oh really now? W-well what can you say about them? How would you feel about being on the team?” Warble’s brief look of shock disappears as he coughs into his hand and regains his serious posture. “I didn’t get this scar on my snout for nothing. They’re a different breed. I think the one who cornered me was some rabid and desperate drone, running on instinct and adrenaline based on how hurt he was. Even then that bug gave me a run for my money, but in the end, I managed to kill him and make it back to the den… barely.”  My face drops as I hear the sincerity in his voice and watch him turn away in obvious shame. I think I have an idea of how he infiltrated the den in the first place now. “Well, long story short, if I could barely survive one on its last legs, then I’d hate to fight the healthy ones. So I respectfully decline the offer to join an expedition.” “So you won’t mind showing me the cocoon?” Everyone turned their heads to Fluttershy as she raised her head and spoke with cold authority. “I think before we go anywhere else with this conversation, we need to make sure this thing isn’t some decoy. Changelings are sneaky little cockroaches who thrive on hiding in plain sight, so who’s to say he’s really the one in there?”  Oh shit, oh shit, oh shit, oh shit- “Yeah, Fluttershy is right. It wouldn’t be the first time we’ve been screwed over by thinking a changeling was done for when they actually weren’t.” Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck- “Me agree. No like bugs, and danger to den too great.” Okay, this is just getting ridiculous now. Warble please tell me you planned for this like I told you! I look over to Warble and immediately drop my jaw as I see him trembling and sweating up a storm, even though I’m sure that dogs aren’t supposed to have sweat glands. He needs to brush up on his anatomy. “Uhhh… eeuughh.” You fucking idiot! Don’t stumble through your words, say something! “Yes!” I finally draw everyone’s attention away from Warble and on to myself, except for Fluttershy, fuck me in the ass! “We will inspect the cocoon together, but first we need to come up with a backup plan in the meantime. It is preferable to running up and down the new hollow should we find no foreseeable way to break the cocoon.” I think my quick thinking did the trick since even Fluttershy has started looking my way. “Alright, how should we do this then?” Fluttershy asks as she slowly puts her hands back on the table. Alright, I bought Warble a little more time to think of a solution because this was on his ass. I know it’s probably a dick move, but if he eats it out there then I have zero qualms with throwing him under a bus, semi-truck, fucking freight train! I don’t care, I am not dying here no matter what, so if that bug wants to stay here he’s gotta pull his weight! “Well, I’m thinking we assemble a small squad of capable dogs, and hopefully a pony who is well versed in changeling combat, tactics, and movement. We aren’t out for blood, we just need one of them alive, so a small group of around four to five should suffice,” I lay out the plan, and the others nod. I’m glad they like it because I have zero idea whether or not that’s the right amount to send for something like this, better write that down for later. “Borg, do you have any dogs that come to mind? Strong, fast, and adaptable?”  He hums for a moment, then just simply nods his head. I turn to Fluttershy and notice that she’s still casting a few glances at Warble, but she quickly shifts back to me as soon as I see her. “Well, Miss Fluttershy? Would you be willing to spare anypony who can help with this?”  She thinks for a moment and nods as well. “Yeah, we can. Normally I would go, but I think I’d rather stay here and follow up on this… cocoon. The pony I have in mind though is nearly as capable as me, so there’s no need to worry. “ Alright, that sounds like a plan everyone. Other than the little hiccup with Warble’s story, everything went off without a hitch. “Excellent. That means we will have two dogs provided by Borg, a capable pony from miss Fluttershy, and the fourth spot will be filled by myself!” Wait a fucking minute…. what did I just say? The room falls silent, as everyone at the table looks at me with wide eyes. What the hell did I just say? Why the hell did I just say that! Quick Ben, say it was a mistake, say three dogs, hell a locust! Someone! Anyone but me! “My king, you mustn't risk yourself for such a menial mission. Allow me to go; it is my duty as a general!” See, Verus agrees! So let him go! Turn to him, and tell him ‘very well Verus, I leave this in your capable hands’. Do it! I place a hand on Verus’ shoulder and chuckle. “Verus, I know how capable you are, and I do not doubt that you would accomplish this task with flying colors, but what have I always said? A king must lead from the front, not from the back. I promised these ponies safety, and the return of their loved ones, so it is my duty to see it done personally.” Huh… that’s a weird way to say I’m not going. It’s almost like I didn’t fucking say that! What the hell is going on? When have I ever said - “A king must lead from the front, Verus,” I say as I step forward towards the Reaver docking bay on the edge of our palace. It isn’t as flashy as the nexus, but it’s something we fought tooth and nail to create. It’s a piece of crap, but it’s our piece of crap.  We enter the docking bay where several of the large armored tentacle monsters are waiting to be mounted. My golden reaver wriggle’s under my gaze as I mentally order it to lower itself towards me. I clamber onto its back and crack my neck before finally dawning my horned helmet.  If these beasts want a war, then by god I'll give it to them! And unlike that cowardly bitch Myrrah, I'm going in headfirst. I didn't come this far just to die here. I look down at Verus as he steps forward, but without me even needing to say something he lowers his head and salutes me. “Yes, my king. Long live the true horde!” His enthusiasm always serves to make me laugh. Boy am I glad he’s here by my side. I hear a scratching noise in my ear and place two fingers against the radio. “The pretenders' forces are in the sanctum of the Gemini. Stop them!” I hear the sound of explosions in the distance, and see several stalactites fall from the ceiling. The explosions are rocking the entire hollow! Those crazy bastards. “Verus! To your Reaver, we have no time!” I kick the side of my mount while sending a message for it to take off, but all I hear is a loud squeal as it shakes violently and knocks me off of its back. “Waaaah!” I fall off of the ten-foot-tall creature and slam into the ground. Well, what do you know? I went in headfirst just like I predicted. How swell. Jesus, can’t I just have one moment where I can be a badass? No Ben… no you can’t. “Get to your reaver Verus… after you help me up.” I force out as I slowly roll over onto my stomach. I slowly lift my trembling hand from his shoulder in stunned silence. He nods his head in understanding and faces the table once again. "Very well, I will keep watch of the others until you return."  Our heart feels like it’s about to jump out of my chest, and my arms are quaking so bad. What the hell is happening to us… ME!? What the hell is… no. No, this can wait. I’ve spent too much time floundering as it is. We can… I can deal with this later. “Alright, everyone. If we all agree then we will begin preparations. Borg, get your dogs prepared for an excursion… and don’t forget items to subdue the changeling. Fluttershy, get your contribution ready, then head with Warble to the cocoon. Verus, you will accompany and assist them to the best of your abilities.” Everyone nods at my orders and begins to disperse, but I make sure to hold Verus and Warble at the back of the group. I want to hold them in the room so we can talk privately, but that would be far too suspicious. “Alright, I need to talk to you two about the-” Suddenly my whispering is cut off by Warble coughing as loud as he possibly can. Everyone ahead of us looks back in concern, but he just exaggerates a gulp and waves at them. After a moment they finally look away, leaving Warble to sigh in relief. “I get it, Boss, this is a worrying task. Don’t worry though, the changelings are total pushovers compared to you.” What the hell is he talking about? Why does his voice sound so weird? You daft moron, do you know nothing of the art of unspoken language? He’s trying to- No! I am not doing this right now.  Warble nudges me a little bit and gestures towards the front with his head. He then mouths out some words that are increasingly hard to make out thanks to his weird dog mouth. The best I can gather is something like… good… hearing? Wait… I look towards the front and can see the ponies looking around silently and inconspicuously. They’re so far ahead of us I can barely see, but I do nonetheless. Is that? Are their ears twitching? They can hear us can’t they? I wouldn’t doubt it if Borg was listening in too. I forgot that these animals have way better hearing than I do. They could probably hear me from a mile away if they tried.  “You’re right, Warble,” I say with a very slow nod. “Forgive me for my slight hesitation. I did not fight the last squadron of changelings along with my soldiers, but I feel that now is the perfect time to rectify that.” He lets out a soft sigh and nods as well. I trust that he knows what to do. The moment we are out of this tunnel they’re going to head for the cocoon with Verus in tow. If there’s one thing I expect out of Verus, it’s for him to follow my orders vigorously, and without question. Unless I do something right now, he’s going to do just that and crack the cocoon, as well as our secret, wide open.  We exit the tunnel, and as Fluttershy turns to her ponies to relay her intent, I quickly whistle Chorsus and Roc towards us. “Listen up, I will be leaving on an excursion to capture a changeling. Verus will fill you in on the rest of the details, as well as your orders during my absence. I expect you all to be vigilant.” I’m stalling as best as I can, but I need to give them some kind of nonverbal signal! I turn back and look at Fluttershy who’s still standing quite a ways back, but I can see her ears facing our way like satellite dishes, ready to pick up on anything I say. That sly little pony. Clearly, I underestimated just how much my little song and dance would get her to trust me. There’s only one thing I can do. I have to find some way to contact Chorsus. If I remember from that… horrifying little mental episode I had, I mentally told that Reaver what to do and it followed the order. I should be able to do the same with him, right? “Chorsus, as a matter of fact,” He turns to me in surprise as I unlatch my lancer and hand it to him. “You should accompany them. The more help they have… the better.” I can practically hear Warble dying inside behind me, but I can’t focus on that. What I need to focus on are my words, and the eyes of Chorsus’ helmet. Deep breaths, I need to tap into that little part of my brain that keeps talking to me. If I’m right, which I kind of hope I’m not, then it’ll let me pull this off. I stare deeply into his helmet, and time seems to slow as my mind begins to vibrate in my skull. The world darkens around us as I speak. ‘Chorsus… that cocoon is not allowed to open. You will stop it by any means necessary while keeping your intentions secret from the ponies. This order extends both to you and Verus. Failure is not an option.’ The world suddenly fades back in as Chorsus takes my lancer into his hands. “Do you understand?” I say with my physical mouth this time. Chorsus’ helmet eyes flash three times consecutively before he nods to me. “I understand my king. Completely.” I think that’s as good as I’m gonna get. It’s all down to them now. In the meantime, I need to work on my backup plan for if things go south. I can take care of that while lying down in my room too since I'm pretty sure my body still isn't used to all this communion crap. “Very good. I will be… in my chambers making preparations. Come for… m-me there when we are ready to leave.” Before anyone else has a chance to respond to me, I quickly shuffle my way out of the assembly room before I have a chance to vomit. I turn down a couple of halls, my body flying on autopilot the entire time, and without even understanding where I’m going I magically open a door and return to my room. I slam it shut and collapse into my bed before my vision can blur any further, and stare at the spinning ceiling in silence. Just calm down. I need to just calm down already, and not pass out. Jesus, why does this hurt so much? You hit the nail on the head earlier Ben, your body’s not used to it. I close my eyes and grit my teeth as that little nagging voice returns to me, even louder this time. I swear every time I try to do something he just- No, no, no! There is no he! No, we! It’s just me, and that is it! I am the only one here, and I am fine. Hmm….. ‘If you say so.’