//------------------------------// // Chapter 11 // Story: I guess it could be worse... // by Mekapix //------------------------------// The plan was as good as it could possibly get considering the situation. Everypony, changeling and human was getting into position, everyone present feeling very nervous. Chrysalis and her three children had changed into more royal attire. All three were wearing black armour with a dark green along the joints, there were also bright green gems on the backs of their hands on their gauntlets and Chrysalis' armour had a long, dirty green tattered cape hanging from her shoulders. The six ponies were all in various positions. Rainbow Dash was flying in the air slightly, staying next a small green X on a pillar while giving Fluttershy a reassuring pat on the back. Twilight and Rarity talking to each other out of everyone's way, Twilight seeming to be issuing instructions to her marshmallow friend. Pinkie and Josh were searching through a small bag Pinkie had brought with her while Sam and Applejack were setting up stone slabs with bullseyes on them. Josh and Sam were wearing the same armour as the changeling royals besides the green gems on their gauntlets. “I still cannot believe we are in such peril that we are in need of those elements.” Dera huffed as she watched the ponies and humans get to work. “It is not ideal but it is currently necessary. All our lives depend on this plan and this plan depends on those ponies.” Chrysalis said with a small sigh. “In this situation, it can only take one of us to fail and then all our lives will be lost.” “That's very pessimistic thinking.” Josh said as he approached them, Pinkie now working with Sam and Applejack on the targets. “It's not pessimistic, it's realistic. Do you really expect this to work without a doubt?” Dera asked. “Pretty much what I'm hoping for, what I assume we are all hoping for.” “You do realise there are multiple ways for this to go wrong, don't you?” Zabrus quizzed. “Yeah but I try not to think about it, then they generally don't happen.” Josh answered with a goofy smile. “Right, so after the plan works, you remember what happens next don't you?” Noctua nodded. “Once Father assumes that you are powerful enough to help conquer Canterlot, you two will tell him that you will not allow him to start a war. He'll probably retaliate a little but when you explain what you think he should do, he is wise enough to see it's what is best. We'll help if he argues back, then he'll know he should listen.” Josh nodded but raised an eyebrow. “I'm still finding it hard to believe that you all want to stop your invasions and the like. Don't get me wrong, I don't want you to invade but you giving up, it's just unexpected for the bad guys to do.” Chrysalis frowned at that last part. “We are not the 'bad guys' as you put it!” She snorted. “We wish for our freedom as any other pony would wish for, our methods have just been more...” “Explodey?” Josh finished for her. Chrysalis frowned a little before sighing. “Though your word leaves much to be desired, yes. A peaceful approach seems ridiculous but maybe it's because we have not bothered trying that we think that way.” Josh shrugged and headed back to the group of ponies. “You know, back in our world there was a law of the universe called Occam's razor. The simplest solution is most often the correct one and all this fighting seems pointless and complicated, talking is so much easier.” Josh made his way over to the two unicorns while Sam was finishing up with the targets. “Y'all really this'll work?” Applejack asked him. “Could do, as long as nothing goes wrong then we might just be ok.” Sam replied. “Got the last of the explosives Pinkie?” “Yessir! Here you go.” Pinkie handed the human a few small spheres that he then strapped to the back of the last target. “Right then, all of these are set. I'm still not sure why you have these though Pinkie.” “They are my new party toy! They are like miniature party cannons, can't carry my party cannon everywhere all the time and you never know when a party needs to be started!” Sam just smiled and nodded, feeling that knowing more about the pink mare and this 'party cannon' could probably just give him a headache. “So Twi' and Rarity are gonna make you two look like you've got all this magicy stuff and when you hit the targets, they explode and make you both look powerful enough that he should listen?” Applejack asked. “That's right. Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy will also help by lifting me Josh into the air to give an illusion of wingless flight. We need to look as intimidating as possible to make sure he listens to our fake warning otherwise he might just ignore us.” Sam explained. “An' the royals over there are gonna combine their magic to make us all invisible?” “Pretty much, it'll make them weak for a bit but that shouldn't matter too much if everything works out.” Sam began to make his way over to the others, Applejack and Pinkie following behind. “Everything in place?” Josh asked. Sam nodded in response. “Are you two ready for this?” Twilight asked. “As we can be I suppose.” Josh answered. He looked at everyone present and let out a nervous sigh. “And now we wait...” XXX The changelings bowed their heads to their king as he made his way through the cavern. Four guards stood by him, protecting him for no other reason but for duty. A familiar emotionless expression was on his face as he looked over his kingdom, watching his subjects for any kind of issue. 'Have they done nothing while I've been away?' He asked himself. 'I can't see anything that could have been taken from those ponies. My Queen has a lot to explain.' He eventually arrived at two large doors leading to his throne room. “My Lord, your Queen and children are waiting for you inside.” A guard at the door said with a bow. “Very well. Leave us.” Japyx stated. His guards nodded and left him. He placed his hands on the door and gave a hard push, opening the doors to find his Queen and children at the other side of the room. “Is it good to see you again Father.” Zabrus stated. Him and his two sisters bowed their heads to his, as did Chrysalis. “I assume your travels were safe?” The changeling Queen asked. “Of course, it's not like anything in that forest could harm me, I have lost two guards from my unit however.” “I'm sorry to here that my Lord.” Japyx just huffed in response. “It matters not, they were royal guards that were too weak to protect themselves. Better they died there rather than being the cause of an entire unit's failure.” He reasoned. Josh and Sam were at the fair end of the room, just out of Japyx's sight whilst their pony friends were invisible, thanks to the magic spell provided by the changelings. “Now then.” Japyx started. His emotionless expression changed slightly to allow a small frown. “I am rather concerned with the lack of progress that has been achieved since I left. Why are we not yet in control of the pony citadel?” Chrysalis gulped, the time to start the plan had come and she was praying to Abraxas that it'd work. “There were... complications with the plan.” She saw the frown on her King's face deepen, hell, she could feel it deepen. “However, we were able to come across something useful recently!” She exclaimed quickly. “And what is this 'useful' thing you found?” He asked roughly. Chrysalis coughed and motioned to the side of the hall. “You may approach now.” She said. From the side of the hall came two beings that Japyx had never seen before, two bipedal beings similar to their own race but lacking fur and they had flatter faces. “What are they?” Japyx asked. “These are humans, they arrived recently when a strange type of magic struck the land. The reason I wished to show them to you are is due to their abilities.” She explained. “Introduce yourselves.” Japyx stated. The two boys moved forward and silently gulped. “My name is Sam.” Sam said first. “Mine is Josh.” “Tell me you two, what 'abilities' do you possess and why should I not have you executed for being inside our sanctuary without my say so?” 'Wow, what a dick.' Sam thought. “We are part of an order of warriors called the Jedi.” He lied. “To answer your first question, our abilities are expansive and only grow stronger the more we use them. There are many powers we have but we have targets to demonstrate some of them to you, if that is to your liking?” Japyx nodded. “Very well, bring out these targets.” He ordered. Zabrus and Dera brought out the targets and placed them at one end of the hall. “Go on then, show us these powers.” Josh and Sam nodded, and began to move across from the targets. “Are you ready Twi'?” Josh whispered. He felt a tap on his shoulder and nodded at Sam. “You ready Rarity?” Sam whispered. He felt a tap on his shoulder too. “Applejack and Pinkie inn position?” Another tap. “Then let's get the show on the road.” He looked over at Japyx with a stern expression. “I will demonstrate to you the power of the force through telekinetic strength.” Sam lifted his arm and pointed his middle and index fingers to the target. The target began to shake slightly as it was encased in a teal glow, Sam's hand starting to be surrounded in the same aura. He twisted his wrist until the two fingers were pointing upwards, the target began to shake a little more until it eventually began lifting off the ground. Once it was in the air, Sam opened his hand and faced his palm towards the object. It was obvious that Japyx was not all impressed and for good reason, levitation was something any magic wielding being in this world could use, as a result Japyx was not amused by what he could see. What he couldn't see however was a thin fuse that was connected to small ex-party explosives on the back on the target, nor could he see the orange cowpony holding the other end. Applejack watched Sam's hand carefully, waiting for him to move to the next step. “I'm very aware that telekinesis is very common to the magic users in this world.” Sam said as he stared at the target. “That's right.” Japyx said, sounding bored and a little irritated. “So if this is the best you can do then there will be problems.” He ended the statement with a glare at his wife and kids. “Allow me to show you how the telekinesis of the force can beat the telekinesis of your magic.” Sam furrowed his brow in mock concentration and tensed his fingers, shaking his hand slightly. The target began to shake a little, the shaking increasing as Sam tensed his fingers more and more. Applejack grabbed the fuse tightly. Sam stopped tensing his fingers and quickly clenched his fist tightly. Applejack then pulled on the fuse, setting off the small explosives and causing the target to explode. Shards of wood from the target scattered across the floor, a few of them flying over to in front of the boys. Japyx's eyes widened, if only slightly, at the display of power. “I see, able to put pressure on the target you have in your grip. Ok, I will concede that it is impressive but I hope that isn't the most powerful thing you can do.” He stated. “Of course not.” Josh said as he took a step forward. “I will now demonstrate to you a slightly more advanced technique.” He looked as his target and lifted his hand, facing his open palm at the target and relaxing his fingers. He drew his arm back a little and felt small pangs of pain in his arm as small purple arcs of electricity appeared on his arm. Pinkie Pie was holding the fuse to the target and was waiting for contact, wearing a small camouflage helmet that seemingly appeared from no where. The purple electricity began to arc between his fingers, Josh took that as a sign that the effect was ready and threw his arm forward. A purple streak of electricity flew from Josh's hand and struck the target, Pinkie Pie pulling her fuse and causing the target to explode at the same time. Japyx was clearly more interested now in the powers the two had. “Now that was impressive.” He stated with a grin. “And you are able to do even more than that?” The two boys nodded. The grin on Japyx's face began to twist, becoming sinister and full of evil intent. “Wonderful... It seems you have not failed me completely Chrysalis. Now that we have these two on our side then we can finally take control of Canterlot!” “No.” Sam stated. Everyone in the room began to sweat slightly, aside from Japyx. This was the riskiest part of the plan. Japyx turned towards Sam and glared at him. “What did you say?” He sneered. “He said no.” Josh backed up. “We have heard of your history and we will not become tools for a pointless war.” Japyx had a small snarl on his face, Josh and Sam were both wearing stout and emotionless expressions but were very glad that Japyx couldn't see how much they wanted to scream and run away like very manly little girls. “Then why should I let you live?” Japyx asked. 'Time for the big bit. Please help us God, Buhhda, Celestia, I'm not picky. Hell, I'd settle for that Abraxas to lend us a hand.' Josh thought to himself. “Because we have many powers you have not yet seen, each one stronger than the last. There is also two of us and only one of you.” Josh stated. “You can not hope to meet our power in battle.” Sam said. The two boys could feel invisible arms wrapping around their bodies and certain pegasi whispering in their ears, causing them to nod slightly. To say Japyx did not take the statement well would have been an understatement. He clenched his fist and a sickly green glow started to surround his horn. The two boys suddenly took to the air at the sight and began to float near the ceiling. “Do not try us!” Sam yelled to him. “There is no possible way to win a battle with us.” “Your powers can not match both of ours together. This would be a battle you would lose before you have even started.” Josh claimed. 'Come on, come on. Stand down already! There's only so much bullshit we can make up!' Sam thought. Japyx seemed to back down slightly and all looked like it would be fine. That was until the changeling King flared up his horn again and fired a blast of magic at Josh, he crossed him arms to block but it achieved nothing as the blast met him and sent him to the ground, the pegasus behind him sent tumbling backwards but still invisible by some stroke of luck. “Josh!” Sam exclaimed. “Rainbow!” Sam heard a meek voice whisper into his ear. Neither of them had much time to react as a small green bolt of electricity struck flew by Sam, just missing him. He span round in time to have a fist fly towards him and unfortunately meet his face, sending him and the invisible Fluttershy tumbling to the ground. “Insolent fools! You think yourselves stronger than me?!” Japyx growled. He returned to the ground and knelt over Sam as the human was sprawled on the floor groaning. Sam opened his eyes to see Japyx's palm open and a familiar green glow surround his horn and his hand. The point blank attack was just about to fire when Japyx suddenly felt a blast of pressure hit him in the back of the head. He turned to see Josh standing up again, panting slightly as he held out his hand with a blue fog around it. While he was distracted, Sam clenched his iron clad fist and threw it upwards, grabbing hold of the changeling King's horn. The King yelped in pain, the sudden intrusion to his magic caused him to change his appearance to look like a stallion with a shoulder length blue mane and an orange pelt. Japyx turned to face Sam again and delivered a blow to his face, causing the boy to let go as Japyx's appearance changed back at the moment of release. He was about to attack once more but the changeling forgot about Josh, only to be reminded when he felt the humans arms wrap around his neck and pull him back. Sam took the opportunity, he saw and grabbed hold of a rock just next to him and slammed it into the side of Japyx's face. Josh let go as Japyx reeled back from the blow, getting up and clutching the side of his face. Once he recovered, he opened his eyes to see two fists slam into his muzzle, sending him toppling backwards. “Enough of this!” Sam yelled, panting slightly. “We still wish to help you and your changelings, just not through a war. That will achieve nothing in the end.” “We met with the Princesses of the ponies before we came here, there could be a chance at a peaceful solution.” Josh explained. “What solution?” Japyx asked as he got up again. “There is no solution aside from war, they will not accept us no matter what we try! They should learn how it feels to be cast out for thousands of years.” He spat. “Father, please listen, there could be another way to this that we haven't seen.” Noctua suggested. “They are right my King, we haven't tried such an approach so it might work. If not then at least we can say we tried it.” Chrysalis pleaded. Japyx looked over to his wife and children and furrowed his brow. “Is this how you all feel?” He asked. They all nodded, causing him to sigh in defeat. “Very well then. What is it you wish to try?” “We believe that if you and your family, plus some guards and ourselves, were to set up a meeting with the Princesses of Equestria then a treaty may be reached. It could be seen as a long shot but we think that if you all were to explain yourselves, your reasons for attacking and your desire for freedom, it could be possible.” Sam explained. “How would we get word to them about this meeting?” Japyx asked. “There is someone we know that can contact the Princesses. We just need to inform them of the situation and they will send the message.” Josh said. Japyx frowned a little but nodded. “Very well, we shall give this approach a try.” XXX A few hours passed after the conversation. The royals explained the situation to their subjects and while most were willing to try this new plan, there were a few who claimed it a mockery to join up with the ponies. As odd as it seemed for him to do, Japyx seemed to support the idea as he sent his private guards to find out who didn't support the idea and bring them to him so that he could personally tell them why the plan would work. The royal siblings were busy with their duties and the ponies had hidden out in the Sam's room for the time being. The two humans had just been to the local infirmary to patch themselves up after there 'debate' with the King. “Well that could have gone worse.” Sam said as they walked to his room. “Could have gone been bloody better though.” Josh said, stretching his muscles. “Ah, quit your moaning you depressing git. The plan is going according to, well, plan. The royals are taking the peaceful approach, no one saw the ponies, we may have got banged up but it was only a few bruises at first.” Sam said. Something then came up in his memory. “By the way, how did you distract Sephiroth the changeling after he climbed on top of me?” “Oh that? I wanted to stop him somehow but I had no idea what to do so I just threw my hand out to reach for, because I thought that'd help for some reason.” He said with a roll of his eyes. “Anyway, I think Rarity used the chance to make it look like I threw a blast of magic at him, that's what got his attention.” Josh explained. “And while we are on about the fight, you seemed to really do some damage on the bastard when you punched him in the face.” “Pretty much bitch slapped him with a rock. He must have a skull made of steel, I think the rock smashed to bits on contact because it sure as hell wasn't in my hand after I hit him.” Sam let out a small sigh after. “What's up?” “Well... no, it's stupid...” “You miss pretending you were a jedi with magical powers too?” “We'll never get that chance again Josh, I wish it could have lasted a little longer.” Sam admitted, he felt Josh's arm wrap round his shoulder. “Me too but on the plus side, we are exploring a brand new world and pretending to be powerful jedi ambassadors. No one else can ever say that.” Josh reassured with a playful grin. The both of them had a small chuckle over the ridiculousness of their situation before they reached and entered Sam's room. They just closed the door behind them before they were quickly crushed in the bearhug of bearhugs. “Sweet Celestia, we were so worried!” Twilight exclaimed as she gave a squeeze. “That was far too risky, we should never have tried it.” Rarity cried dramatically as she tightened her grip. “You two should have called for our help, we could easily beaten his flank together.” Rainbow Dash mentioned as she made sure to grasp them tighter. “Y'all must never ever try somthin' like that ever again!” Applejack ordered as she crushed them more. “What would we have done if you two had gotten super duper hurt?” Pinkie Pie sobbed, making sure her sentiment was felt in her part of the constriction. Fluttershy remained silent but definitely hugged them tighter than any of the other five. “Girls! Girls! Breath!... Need!... Now!...” Sam choked out. “I can see a light... It's calling for me...” Josh said as he stared up at the rock ceiling, reaching for out for it. The girls all let go of the two humans, allowing them to quickly regain precious air. “Sorry about that.” Rainbow said as she scratched the back of her head. “No worries.” Josh replied. “Would have been funny to get in a magical fight then die by a hug, not the most unpleasant way to go either.” He chuckled. “I take that joke of yours means you two are fine?” Twilight asked. “Yeah, we're good.” Sam answered. “Probably a good thing we had that armour.” Josh nodded with his friend then looked over to the two pegasi. “How about you two? It must have hurt when you two got hit with us.” “We're ok.” Fluttershy said smiling. “Yeah, only a scratch or two, no biggie.” Rainbow Dash added. “Getting away from the fight, I must say that I'm happy the plan seems to have worked.” Rarity mentioned. “Yeah but ah dunno if we can trust those changelings. I can see why you'd think the treaty would be a good idea but everypony still remembers what those fellahs did back at the royal wedding.” Applejack said. “Maybe so but look around us, they live in a hole. They feed off of love, got cast out of modern society and have had to adapt just to survive in a world filled with different species that think them monsters. It isn't a good thing that they invaded but given their circumstances, it certainly isn't surprising.” Sam explained. “Need is no reason for war, kidnapping and theft.” Rarity stated. “Why should we help them after what they did?” Josh couldn't help but frown at the mares attitude. “Probably because of no one helping them in their time of need, which I highly doubted you contributed to either.” He stated blankly, crossing his arms. “Why would we?” Twilight asked. “They have been known to try this in many places all over Equis, it isn't our fault that they decided to attack.” “So? You could have helped, the idea of a treaty could have started sooner but you seem to be so quick to label them evil that the idea seems treacherous.” Josh retorted. “You ponies seem to have done this before as well, ignoring a problem then labelling it evil when it gets out of hand.” Twilight was slightly taken back by the statement. “When have we ever?” “Remember what you said about your Princess Luna becoming Nightmare Moon?” He asked. “She was nice, kind and sweet but when night came, no one appreciated it. This caused her to get upset, then jealous, then angry.” “What's your point?” Twilight asked. “When she became upset, did any of the ponies do anything? She was suffering and no one seemed to act on it, not even her own sister seemed to do anything to stop it.” He spat. “One of the ponies could have helped, reassured her that her night is something they all needed, her sister could have comforted her but no, not one single pony did anything to help her.” “And when she changed, when her jealousy, anger and loneliness took over, it was suddenly her fault and she was banished for one thousand years. Her loneliness was tackled by making her more alone than ever before, no wonder she grew powerful enough to come back from a banishment cast by a goddess. The banishment of a beloved goddess could have been prevented if some one, maybe even one pony, could have tried to help instead of ignoring the problem. Now history could repeat itself if you all label this as a lost cause, or you could learn from the mistake ponies made years ago and try to talk it out, stopping them from attacking in the first place.” Twilight didn't know what to say, one of the two happy go lucky humans looked like he despised he. Before she could say anything, Josh let out a deep sigh and turned to Sam. “Dude, where's the bathroom in here? I think I need to cool off a little...” Sam pointed towards a door on the side of the room. Josh nodded and entered the room, a running tap could be heard. “That was... unexpected...” Applejack said. Rarity nodded and frowned at the door. “Indeed, it was also rather out of place. Why would he say something like that to poor Twilight? She wasn't wrong for not wanting to trust them.” “Just give him a minute.” Sam said. He quickly made his way to the purple unicorn who was slightly tearing up, not used to being yelled at and very confused as to why it happened. “Sorry about that Twilight, he's just a bit stressed. Doesn't like fights that much and goes through most lengths to avoid them.” Sam patted the mare on the shoulder and looked toward the bathroom door. “He likes the idea of everyone being happy together so when there's a peaceful solution no one thinks to take then he gets edgy. Ironic really, he once tried to convince two people that fighting wasn't the answer but they wouldn't listen, he ended up punching them both. A pacifist with a short temper that one.” Sam chuckled. He gave Twilight a slight pat on the back, causing her to stumble a little towards the door. “He doesn't like arguments either, especially with those he likes. Go in there to talk to him and I guarantee he'll say sorry the moment you walk in.” Twilight gulped and nodded hesitantly, she slowly made her way into the bathroom and shut the door behind her. “Your friend can be a little strange, can't he?” Applejack asked. “Yeah. His hearts in the right place, shame his brain isn't. I sometimes wonder if there's even one in there.” Sam said with a little smile. “Anyway, getting off of that, did we manage to send a message to Celestia?” “Yeah, Twilight had her pet-slash-assistant owl, Owlowiscious outside, ready to send a message to Spike who was ready to send a message to Celestia who would read the message then probably send a message back to Spike to say she would be on her way if we needed her help.” Pinkie explained. “Right, any reply?” “Why yes, the Princess was very quick to respond.” Rarity stated. “We only got the message moments ago, I believe Twilight still has it.” As if planned by some higher power, Twilight and Josh came out of the bathroom talking quietly. They both had a small smile on their faces as they turned their heads towards the group. “Friends again?” Sam asked. Josh gave a wide grin and wrapped an arm round Twilight's shoulder. “Yup! I apologized being being an arse and she accepted it, then she tried to apologize but I wouldn't have any of it, she had nothing to be sorry for. Besides,” He said, then he pinched her cheek slightly. “How can anyone stay even slightly miffed at this adorable little pony face?” He ended with a smile. Twilight chuckled nervously and turned a slight tinge of pink that neither human could see due to the fur. “Well that's good to hear. Now Josh, if you could stop flirting with the locals, Twilight has a response from the Princess about our meeting.” The human blinked and let go of the unicorn. She coughed away her little blush and withdrew a note from her shirt pocket. “'Dear Twilight, I must say that I am greatly confused as to why the changelings thought that our guests were beings with powers.'” Twilight began quoting. “Because they aren't the brightest bunch and believe anything they see apparently.” Josh interrupted. “'As for the idea that they wish to form a treaty with us, I hope I am understood that when I say that the idea itself sounds good, it is a very risky plan. The ponies in Canterlot and many others are still very wary after the events of last year, I will set up a meeting for this treaty to take place the day after tomorrow.'” “Bit sudden.” Sam said. “'I know this may seem a bit sudden but-'” “What the fu-” “'But I would like you all to stay with our human guests to make sure no harm comes to them and I would also like to see you all back in Ponyville as soon as possible. Please keep me updated if anything changes. I hope to see you all back soon, safe and sound. Celestia.'” Twilight finished. “Well then, seems we have a plan ladies and my fellow human.” Josh said. Sam nodded and clapped his hands together. “Indeed we do but now we have one more issue. It's getting late, so where is everyone staying?” “We can answer that.” Came a voice from the doorway. Everyone turned round to see the royal changeling siblings standing at the door, Zabrus was as calm as usual however Josh and Sam couldn't help but notice the two daughters looked slightly peeved. “I hope we are not interrupting anything?” Dera said. “Not really.” Sam replied. “What's up?” “Mother wanted us to sort out the arrangements for your pony friends staying.” Noctua said. “It's quite a surprise that the Queen is ok with us staying here.” Fluttershy said in her usual quiet tone. “It isn't all that surprising. Mother feels safer knowing that you're here where it's possible to keep an eye on you.” Zabrus replied. “Ok then, so where are we going to stay the night?” Rainbow asked. “Well we decided that it'd be best if three of you stayed in Sam's room while the other three can stay in Josh's room.” Noctua explained. “Wouldn't that be a bit crowded? Four of us in a room?” Josh asked. “No, only three in a room. Three ponies in here, three ponies in your room.” Dera said. “Yes but then there is us.” Sam continued. “You will not be staying in these rooms, other accommodation will be provided for you.” Noctua said. Before another word could be said, she quickly walked over to Josh and wrapped her arms around one of his. “You will be staying in my room.” Josh immediately turned red, remembering his last time alone with the changeling. “W-W-W-What are you on about?” “You'll be staying in my room.” She repeated bluntly. “Then where will you stay?” “In my room too.” “Then I'll be sleeping on the couch in your room?” “There is no couch in my room.” “I thought every room had a couch.” “It spontaneously exploded.” “Ok, then where will I sleep?” “In my bed.” “Then where will you sleep?” “In my bed.” “But you said I'd sleep there.” “We both will stay in my bed.” “... I don't understand...” “Are you that dense or are you just acting it?” “I'd like to call it fools hope.” Noctua just sighed and began pulling Josh towards the door. “Have fun!” Sam teased as Josh was being dragged away. He wasn't able to enjoy it for long though as within a few moments, he felt a pair of arms wrap around one of his. He slowly looked to his side to see Dera staring back at him with a devious grin. “What makes you think you're so safe?” She asked. To emphasize her point, she made sure to squeeze his arm between her breasts. Sam had to gulp, trying to swallow the blush coming across his face. “Guess where you're staying~?” She said in a sing song tone. The human wasn't given time to answer as he was being pushed towards the door. “Where are y'all taking them?!” Applejack asked loudly, very loudly. Noctua turned back with a raised eyebrow and a bemused smile. “We are taking them to our rooms, that is where they will be staying while you take their rooms.” She replied. “You can't! Y-Y-You're planning to do things to them, aren't you?” Pinkie accused as she pointed to the two changelings. “Close.” Dera replied. “We plan to do lots of things to them.” She said with a shit eating grin. A shiver went down both the humans spines, a wise man once said the men fear what they don't understand. They were a group of women from another world, they had nothing they could really understand. They had everything to fear. Rainbow Dash and Applejack sped over to the boys. Rainbow grabbed hold of Josh's other arm while Applejack took Sam's, thus the human tug of war ensued. “Y'all aren't taking these two anywhere!” Applejack fought. “Oh? And what right do you have to stop us?” Dera asked. “What right do you have to take them?” Rainbow responded. “We have every right. We have decided that these two shall become our husbands.” Noctua replied. “What?!” All the ponies replied. This only made the two ponies pull harder. “Josh! I think my arms are gonna be ripped off at this rate!” Sam cried. “I can't believe we are gonna nearly die three times in one day!” Was Josh's reply. Eventually the changelings and ponies lost their grip, causing them to all fly backwards while Josh and Sam fell to the ground. The two boys looked up to see Zabrus looking down at them. “What if we simply have you two stay in my room with me? No need to worry about anything happening there.” Zabrus said. “YES!” The humans cried. XXX The sun was setting on another day in Equestria. Three days had passed and the boys couldn't help but wonder how, in such a short time, they had ended up in the middle of a battle that had lasted generation upon generation. The two of them couldn't be more surprised. Elsewhere in the changeling hive, someone else was also very surprised however they were much less happy about it. Japyx was pacing back and forth. He was moving around in the throne room, his wife retired to bed long ago while his children had disappeared to Abraxas knows where but that was the least of his concerns. He was growling in the back of his throat, a scowl plastered across his features until he was interrupted by a knock at the door. “You may enter.” He said. The door opened to reveal his three personal guards escorting a group of changelings. The guards ushered the group towards their king. “Close the doors.” He ordered. One of the guards nodded and shut the door behind them. “Kneel before your king.” One of the guards instructed. The changelings gulped and looked around nervously before heeding the command, the knelt onto one knee and bowed their heads to their king. “So then, I understand you all are against the idea to form a union?” Japyx questioned. “You do realise that this could solve all our problems, why would you be against a treaty that could save us?” The whole room remained silent as Japyx stood staring at his subjects. “No need to be shy, I give you permission to speak your mind.” One of the changelings stood up but kept his gaze towards the ground. “W-Well, sir, my King...” The changeling subject started. He suddenly went quiet, causing Japyx to raise an eyebrow. “Yes my subject? Go on.” He drew a deep breath and looked upwards to face his King. “Y-You see my King, we feel that, while we have been struggling, it is the ponies and their ancestors to blame for our lack of food. We have been the ones in poverty for so long, we do not see the reason why we need to start a peace offering.” “The ponies have done nothing for us before, they don't deserve a treaty with us.” Another spoke up as he stood with his fellow subject. The other changelings behind them nodded and muttered words of agreement. “And this is truly how you feel?” Japyx asked. The changeling gulped but stood firm and nodded. The King raised his hand high, his changeling subject flinched as he waited for punishment for insubordination. Instead, he felt a hand on his shoulder, he opened his eyes to see the King with a confident smile. “What is your name and occupation, my subject?” “M-My name is Scuttle sir, I'm one of the royal spies.” Japyx nodded and then looked at the other changeling that spoke out. “And you?” “My name is Crutch my King. I'm one of the city guards.” Japyx nodded once more and looked over the other changelings. “Do you all feel the same way as Scuttle and Crutch?” There were a few murmurs amongst the other subjects but ultimately words of approval came from the crowd. Japyx turned round and sat on his throne. “I have called you all here because you all have shown little faith in this plan. You do not believe that we and the ponies should work together to achieve a better tomorrow.” “And I completely agree with you.” That last statement caught the group by surprise. “The ponies are not a group we can or will get along with. They claim that peace and love is the best option yet they scrutinized for as long as or history goes back. Those two... beings have come into our hive and told us what we should and shouldn't do, such actions are intolerable!” He got a few cheers from the group with his statement, he smiled and motioned them to quiet down with his hand. “Yes, yes. However an opportunity has presented itself to us with this treaty. You all are going to help me invade Canterlot from the inside.” He said with an evil grin. “What about the Queen and the royal siblings?” Crutch asked. “They have decided to side with the humans and ponies. They've gone soft and will be treated the same as the ilk they have decided to work with. No mercy for traitors.” “And the humans sir?” Scuttle questioned. A deep evil glower appeared on the King's face. “When the time comes, they will be taken care of. I will see to it personally.” XXX Sam and Josh were making themselves comfortable in Zabrus' chamber, the owner of said chamber was setting up blankets and pillows on a pair of couches. “So Dera and Noctua actually moved their couches into your room?” Josh asked. “Yes, at the same time about a few hours. They said that they were broken but I couldn't see anything wrong with them, looks like we know the real reason they gave them to me now.” Zabrus replied. “Those two must have been planning this for a while... Now I come to think of it, you've never really talked much Zabrus.” Sam stated. “Yeah Zabby, tell us about yourself.” Josh grinned. “Ok, but only if you never call me 'Zabby' again.” Josh nodded. “Well I'm a male, Prince of the changelings, son to Queen Chrysalis and King Japyx. That's about it.” “There's no way that can be it! We already know all that! Hell, one bit of that information could give us the other two!” Zabrus just stared blankly at Josh's response. “I'll call you Zabby again.” “Very well, what is it you wish to know about me?” The changeling asked. Josh and Sam settled down on a sofa each while Zabrus took a seat on his own. “What's it been like? Living here I mean.” Sam asked. “Well there's never been many problems in the hive. It needs repairing from time to time but I imagine it to be the same as any normal town. We've had some trouble in the last few years though, there was talk of some kind of secret organisation attacking changelings that didn't agree with the King's plans.” Zabrus let out a small sigh. “As if fighting with other nations weren't bad enough, rumours of us trying to fight each other were not what we needed.” “Was it true?” Sam asked. “I'm not sure, the rumour went as quickly as it came. Any other questions?” “What's it like being royalty?” “Hmm, it doesn't mean much at the moment, it just means there are meetings I have to attend and changelings bow if they see me.” “That's it?” Josh asked. “Well it is now. When I was younger though, the royal assistants use to teach us all about etiquette. It was a frustrating time if I'm honest. Noctua was good at everything she was taught while Dera was still too young to begin.” “What were the lessons like?” Sam quizzed. “They were ok.” He said as his eye twitched. “Don't hold back on our account.” Josh said, earning a raised eyebrow from Zabrus. “He's right. You wanna say something then go right ahead.” Sam added. “I'm telling you it was ok.” Zabrus insisted but a few moments of silent, expectant looks from the humans made him give up. “Fine. You win. It was like Tartarus came into our world.” “Tartarus?” Josh whispered to Sam. “Ain't that old Greek hell?” “Sort of, it's a pit in the underworld. Weird coincidence.” Sam replied. They both kept quiet and let Zabrus continue. “They use to make me walk around with books on my head to keep posture, which isn't easy to do when you have a horn coming from your head. It use to sometimes knock the books a little when I turned, they'd fall off and then I'd have to do it again. So frustrating.” Zabrus then smirked a little as he brought the memories back. “One time, I got so sick of the books falling off, I used some tools to bore a hole into the books, put my horn through the holes and tried to pass it off as a success.” He chuckled, getting a similar response from the two humans. “And did they fall for it?” Sam asked. “Of course not. I was too young at the time to even realise that in order to pull off my trick, they'd have to not notice that my entire horn was missing!” He started to laugh a little harder to himself. “They told me they knew what I was doing, I just replied 'I don't know what you're talking about, I've never had a horn!'. No one was impressed obviously but looking back, it was rather funny.” “Oh, what a little rule breaker.” Josh teased. “Any other tricks?” Zabrus had to think a minute. “Hmmm, there was that one time where I snuck into town one night. Dera had talked about how unfair it was that she had to stay in the royal chambers while other changelings her age were allowed to go to clubs and the like. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't interested, we were never allowed out of the chambers aside from having to visit someone's home or having to get something from the market place.” “So one night, while Dera was kicking up a fuss, I offered the idea to sneak out and go there. I didn't think she'd actually go for it but I was partly serious so we decided to give it a try. We slipped out with out much trouble wearing the times fashions. Her mane was rather frizzy at the time while wearing a frilly, black and white chequered skirt with a bright blue tank top. If I remember rightly, I was wearing ripped jeans and a black, open collared shirt with vertical blue lines.” “We got into the club easily enough. Dera vanished in moments but I expected as much, I decided to go and get a drink myself.” He then let out a dreamy sigh. “That's when it happened.” “It's a girl.” Sam whispered. “Gotta be a girl.” Josh replied. “I met the most beautiful girl I had ever laid my eyes on.” Josh and Sam mentally high fived. “You see, most changelings all look the same way but that's actually a kind of magical uniform. Changelings tend to shed them after work hours are over. I'm glad I went out that night and met her. She had a long neon blue mane, she was wearing tight jeans and a light green top that lifted her cleavage. Her wings had slight amounts of golden glitter on them, it was the fashion back then you see, I couldn't help but sit next to her at the bar. I ordered my drink and then I tried to talk to her but... How do I say this?” “You lost your bottle?” Josh asked. “What?” “He means did you get nervous?” Sam translated. “Oh, well yes. I wanted to talk to her, I really did but nothing I wanted to say sounded good enough. Once I realised I lost my confidence, I decided to chug down my drink and order another. I went for my second drink but another hand grabbed it too, it was hers. We both ended up letting go and ushering the other to have it instead, that lead to us drinking together and that lead to talking. Her name was Aphomia, her father was a blacksmith for the army while her mother was a local cook. We spent half the night talking and the other dancing together. We were smitten with each other, I would even say I was starting to fall for her, we were just so alike and got on so well.” “So what happened?” Sam asked. Zabrus sighed. “Turns out our sneaking out didn't go as unnoticed as we thought. Me and Dera got chewed out the next day and they kept a closer eye on us. We were never able to sneak out again and I haven't seen her since.” “Surely you could have gone out and seen her? They can't exactly stop you now you're royalty.” Josh suggested. “I would have if I could but I heard that she ended up being relocated to another hive to the north. We aren't given so much freedom that we can go from one hive to another, we're heavily guarded as it is whenever we go into market. Like someone is going to attack us.” He ended sarcastically, his head hanging to view the floor. He ended with a heavy sigh before feeling a hand on each shoulder, Zabrus looked back up and saw Josh and Sam with warm smiles. “Maybe once this treaty is sorted, we can get you up to that northern hive. You might meet her again.” Josh said. “I doubt she'd remember me, I never even told her I was the Prince.” “So?” Sam asked. “It's worth a try. It's better to regret the stupid things you did do rather than the things you didn't.” “I-I couldn't... It's pointless, I'll never find her.” “But what if you do?” Josh asked. “Who says you wont find her? And don't give me that crap about how she wont remember you. When you're out of your shell, you're great to talk to. Easily memorable.” “B-But... But... You really think she'd remember me?” Zabrus asked, a slight hint of hope in his voice. Josh and Sam grinned. “It seems we have an Equestrian outing to plan at some point.” Sam said with a grin. Josh let out a woop and threw his hands in the air. “Road trip!” The rest of the night passed with idle chatter until all three of them retired to bed. XXX The next day passed with relative ease. Formal clothing was made for the human 'ambassadors', the same clothing with small pieces of armour were given to the siblings while clothing with more armour placed onto it was given to the King and Queen. The ponies hid in the boys rooms while they attended to their duties, the two boys couldn't help but notice that the amount of guards seemed to have increased than what they last saw, then again they had only been in the hive for a few days, they didn't know much still. Their relationship with Zabrus had increased pretty well, he didn't seem so uptight as he had done before. They definitely found a good friend in him. They also noticed that the two daughters were hanging around them a little more, it seemed to have started ever since the six ponies dropped in... no pun intended. The six seemed to act a little differently too. Rainbow and Applejack always tried to be between the humans and changelings, Pinkie would always try to distract Sam or Josh if they were slightly close to one of the two girls. Rarity would often try to talk about some fashion idea that seemingly came out of no where, Twilight did the same except with some magical theory. The only one acting like themselves was Fluttershy, though her eyes seemed to look worried whenever the humans and changelings talked. Josh and Sam weren't as oblivious as the others thought though. They could tell what was going on...couldn't figure out why though. The day passed that way until night fell, leading to the big day. Early in the morning, Sam and Josh managed to help the ponies sneak out the way they came before the siblings sealed the hole once more. Knots made out of knots formed inside the humans' stomachs as they made their way outside with the royals. Carriages were waiting for them outside, Chrysalis and Japyx entered one while Dera, Noctua, Zabrus, Josh and Sam entered the other, a group of guards flew beside both carriages. “I know this is a very serious issue but I can't help feel excited. This is the first time we've been away from the hive.” Dera squealed. “Remember what we are here for, the future of our kingdom could change today.” Noctua reminded. “I know!” Dera replied. “I'm just saying that we should enjoy the fact we are out of the hive.” It wasn't long before they were flying over the Everfree forest, Josh and Sam could now see that the hive was under a large mountain by one edge of the Everfree. “I feel so nervous, I think I'm gonna blow chunks.” Josh said, breathing heavily. Sam began to gently rub his friends back. “Calm down, everything will be fine soon. Just think, soon you can be back in your own bed, we can eat our food,” Sam gave him a nudge. “You can get back to your baking.” Josh perked up. “Chocolate doughnuts?” Sam nodded. “Chocolate doughnuts. We have the stuff for it.” Josh grinned from ear to ear. “Let's get this shit done.” Zabrus looked at Sam confused, Sam just smiled and shook his head with a shrug. “So how long do you think it'll be before we get there?” Zabrus asked. “About ten minutes according to maps I read. We kept our hive close so that a strategic retreat could be made quickly if needed. We know how to avoid anything in the forest with much more ease than any of the ponies.” Noctua explained. “Clever.” Josh acknowledged. Noctua looked at Josh with a smirk. “Oh I know it is. It also helps keep anyone inside the hive from getting out. Hope you visit again soon.” Josh chose to ignore that for the sake of his nerves. The next ten minutes passed quickly, the passengers looked out of the window to view the rest of the forest. Josh and Sam grinned when Ponyville came into sight, they were happy to see the town and especially their home. It passed by soon enough and the familiar sight of Canterlot greeted them. They touched down just outside the castle doors. All changelings and humans stepped out of their carriages to see the giant castle once more. Them and the changeling guards were led through the castle, every guardspony watching them with understandable caution. They were eventually led to a large room, inside it was a round table with many seat placed around it. One one side of the table were Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. Standing behind them were six familiar ponies with strange jewellery round their necks except Twilight, she had a tiara on her head instead. “We welcome you to Canterlot.” Celestia stated with a blank expression. “Thank you for having us.” Queen Chrysalis replied. The royalty took their seat while the guards and the two humans stood behind them. “Boys.” Celestia said, gaining their attention. “While it may seem unorthodox, I'd like it if you were to sit here.” She pointed to a couple of seats at the table, they were about equal distance from both parties. “It was your idea to have this treaty so I feel it would be better if you were involved.” She said seriously. Serious Celestia scared them a little. The boys sat down in their assigned places, sweating a little. Those knots made of knots in their guts just became knots made of knots made of knots, if that was even possible. “Let us get this underway then.” Celestia stated. The meeting started slow at first but then began picking up. Celestia and Luna began by stating the rules of the meeting, they were fairly simple. Everypony had to remain calm, no magic was allowed to do anything, guards were to remain in their positions and stay there at all times. The next subject of business was why the treaty should be allowed. There was a small argument between the two groups but Sam and Josh reminded them that a war would lead to pointless conflict that could be settled within the day. It shut the two groups up pretty well, making the two humans feel proud of themselves. The next order of business was the demands of the changelings. They argued that they should be allowed their own area of residence and that they would be allowed to visit any town at any time. They were allowed to set up their own towns in any space that was not occupied however they were only allowed to visit a town on the mayor's permission. It wasn't fully what they wanted but all agreed it could at least be a starting point. The next subject the changelings wanted to address was to no longer be attacked on sight, they wanted to be seen as any other citizen instead of a threat. Celestia told them that while she could give them the same rights as any other pony, she could not change how her ponies thought. They'd have the rights to not be attacked but it wouldn't stop ponies from being extremely wary of them, the changelings nodded in agreement and the remaining issues were settled. It took half of the day to deal with the treaty but once all issues were dealt with, each side seemed equally happy. “Well then.” Celestia started. “It seems our business is concluded. We will get to work on your requests and make sure you get the same rights as any other pony. I'm not sure how you will approach other nations but as for Equestria, you will become equal citizens and, in time, will hopefully be accepted into our society. I hope you understand that I can change the law but not the way my ponies think, I doubt they will be willing to accept you quickly.” Chrysalis nodded and all raised from their seats. Josh and Sam were completely out of it, the meeting had rough patches they had to calm at first but once the meeting became more professional, they might as well have gone to sleep. “I'm happy that we are able to finally make some progress towards peace.” Chrysalis stated with a smile. “Agreed. War is something I'm sure we all wished to avoid.” Luna said. The changeling Queen shook hands with both Princesses happily. King Japyx walked up to the Princesses and held out both hands. “I think today is probably the most important day in changeling history.” He said with a smile. “I'm so glad that everything went well.” Josh said. “It could have been so much worse.” As the two Princesses reached for Japyx's hands, he aimed his hands towards their chests and unexpected, powerful blasts of magic shot them back across the room. They slid across the floor until their backs slammed against the wall. “Well... Fuck...”