//------------------------------// // Forced-Vacation // Story: Cowcolts and Changelings // by Grazy Polomare //------------------------------// Two Weeks Later "Still," Morpheus complained, "I can't understand where they went." "You combed the entire forest?" Reflect challenged, his eyes rolling in exasperation. They were crossing the bridge into Ponyville, where already a large crowd was congregating. Chrysalis had been due to present a speech on the synthetic changeling controversy, and as such, it was all that changelings ever seemed to talk about. "I checked every nook and cranny," Morpheus sighed, no longer wanting to discuss the matter further, "I mean...they just vanished." "All fifteen remaining fire works," Reflect scolded, "I told you not to leave those things in the Everfree Forest. All sorts of strange ponies dot that demented meadow and I bet you all the holes in my hooves that somepony took it!" Morpheus didn't bother with a reply, too distraught over his current lost to even counter Reflect's challenge. He had been landed maintenance duty again with Alter, who still wasn't too pleased with being abandoned in a field of Poison Joke. In fact, neither him nor Shift were seen too much during those two weeks. They had spent most of their time in the infirmary, or visiting Zecora to cure their Poison Joke affliction. "So why do we have to be present for this?" Morpheus uttered, walking past a group of colts who flinched at the sight of an undisguised changeling. "I don't know," Reflect shrugged, "but the Queen was adamant that anyone who could come should come. I mean, I'd much rather do this then mix the tenth batch of adhesive for Hive C Chamber CB." "You could say that again," Morpheus grinned, before passing another pair of mares, who casted suspicious glares at the two insect-like brutes. At the sight of this, both changelings looked each other over, and realized that perhaps going in as themselves wasn't exactly the most ideal plan of the day. Here and there, ponies were moving out of their way, as if they were enemy soldiers marching into a captured settlement. "I don't think we need to distract other ponies during the speech," Reflect stated, taking notice now of the small barrier being created around them. With a quick flash, both changelings took on the forms of two stallions. Morpheus was now a white mustang with a jet-black mane and thick moustache. Reflect himself was now a blue stallion with an orange, crew-but mane and solid chin. Both of them had piercing blue eyes that seemed to be struggling to stay awake. "Forgot how this feels," Reflect muttered, the crowd no longer forming a barrier around them, "I haven't transformed in well...months." "Hold on," Morpheus' horn glowed as a single, circular glass monocle floated towards him, "I need my monocle." "Oh come on," Reflect jeered, "you don't need that. It makes you look weird." "Excuuuuse me," Morpheus reprimanded, "but I feel the need to assert a gentlecolt's image in such light of our current predicament. Live a little Reflect." Reflect only continued to stare at his companion, unimpressed. "I'll start thinking about my looks when someone starts taking my theories seriously." The two came across the crowd, and pushing their way past, managed to find a suitable space near the center of the town hall. All around them, they could see ponies and disguised changelings mixed together, conversing about a menagerie of trivial matters that had occurred so far in their day. On the podium, Chrysalis stood, disguised in some odd get-up, the Elements of Harmony behind her, and both synthetic changelings in tow. Morpheus suddenly had a flashback to his trial a month or so earlier that had happened in that same exact place, although he was genuinely grateful that this meeting was on a more civilized discussion. As they settled in their position, a green mare with a dark green mane and icy, indigo eyes came up to them, her face beaming. "I see you two made it back in one piece," the familiar voice of Transparence teased, "so what's up with you two?" . "Transparence?" Morpheus was shocked to see the changeling back in Ponyville. "I thought you were in Canterlot?" Transparence only chuckled, nudging Reflect who only gave her a stern look. "Remember when I said I was learning to play violin? Well I also said that I would be moving back and forth from Ponyville and Canterlot, so here I am!" "How's it been?" Reflect asked, as if it was a scripted response he was forced to read for some play. "Well," Transparence pondered for a second, rubbing her neck, "It's been interesting. Canterlot sure has changed since our last invasion, and well, I'm just starting to notice all the hot spots and parties that the rich throw on a daily basis. It's tough work, but so far I've pulled through. I actually think most of them are more curious then scared of changelings now. Asking me questions about what it's like in the Hive, how many towns I've been in, how many forms I've taken, all sorts of stuff really." "Well that's just dandy," Morpheus commented grudgingly, "and meanwhile the tunnels in A Hive are causing-according to Alter- A Problem!" Transparence gave Morpheus an unamused stare, "Really now, I heard what happened with Double and how you practically got to see an Ursa Major up close-" "Don't even." Reflect warned, shoving his hoof at her, the memories flooding back to him, "Just...don't." "ATTENTION! ATTENTION!" All three changelings covered their ears as the piercing sound of their Queen's amplified voice hushed the crowd. Morpheus bent down, the agony causing him to writhe like some injured seal before Reflect gave him a good kick in the shins to stop acting like a chicken. Chrysalis, taking notice of the crowd's reaction, glowed her horn once more and turned to Twilight. "Better now?" "MUCH BETTER!" Morpheus shouted, his monocle having shattered already. When Twilight finally managed a smile, Chrysalis turned back to the crowd. “There! Now, first off, I’d like to thank you all for taking the time to come here today.” "Not like we had a choice," Morpheus whispered, causing both changelings to snicker before Transparence landed a well-placed hoof at the backs of their heads to knock it off. “Now, I’m well aware you all have your own lives to live, so I feel it would be better for all of us if we get to the heart of the matter right away. Now, first off…” The Queen paused, apparently agitated at something to her right. Morpheus and Reflect strained to see it, but simply concluded the likelihood that it was a question. “Er, yes, you in the front?” A stallion's voice rang out. "Why are you hiding behind that pony disguise? Why don’t you talk in your changeling form?” There were several murmurs of agreement, and Morpheus could see a couple of ponies giving accusing glares at Chrysalis. "Oooooo," Morpheus held a hoof out, moving it back and forth like a cuckoo clock, "oh no he didn't..." "Shut up!" Reflect punched Morpheus in the gut, sending the changeling on his knees. Getting up to admonish his friend, Morpheus noticed that Reflect and Transparence seemed to struggle as they held the fury that the insult had elicited. Even if they were in peace, they weren't going to tolerate disrespect to the leader. Now that he thought about it, Morpheus also felt a tinge of anger at the stallion for such disrespectful criticism. Chrysalis rolled her eyes, allowing a tiny smile to escape her lips. “Oh I’m sorry, would you rather I speak to you like this?” With a flash of green flame, the tall, sickly-looking form of their Queen occupied the podium, causing several gasps as she hissed and allowed her horn to glow a sickening green. "She's putting way too much effort into that," Morpheus construed, his eyes rolling as Chrysalis began to chuckle, resuming back to her earlier form, "I give a ten out of fifteen." "Like you'd make a good judge," Reflect muffled his own laugh, "Remind me to place you on the panel of judges for Equestria's next fashion show." "I think the panel could use a changeling like me," Morpheus defended, "Those foals down there need a true connoisseur on appearances if the fashion industry is to stay afloat." Transparence only guffawed, waving her hoof as if Morpheus had said a funny joke for once, "Maybe they'll hire you if they want an anchor to be dropped on that ship of theirs." She and Reflect began to giggle hysterically, causing Morpheus to glare at both of them. "Oh hardy har har..." "I think they're some school fillies down there you can-" Reflect paused to muffle his laughter,"...share some of your fashion advice with." Both changelings were practically rolling on the floor now and Morpheus decided that ignorance truly was bliss, turning back his focus to the speech. Standing side-by-side, Chrysalis was flanked by both of the synthetic changelings, their hooves shuffling as if they had made some mistake on stage. “Now, first off, I believe there is a rumor that we changelings capture ponies and take them back to our hive to convert them into changelings themselves, and even that half our army is composed of synthetic changelings.” Chrysalis explained, “So I’ll address these rumors bluntly; they are not true.” "The conversion of ponies is a process that, if carried out to such an extent, would ultimately be detrimental to our survival. In what way would we benefit from converting our food source into more mouths to feed that would require extensive conditioning just to be controlled?” Chrysalis explained, “We do not convert ponies without thought; only those who are unfortunate enough to venture too close to our hive and risk revealing its location are captured and converted so as to protect ourselves. This happens less often than you’d think, and the total number of synthetic changelings peaks in the low hundreds. This may seem like a lot now, but apply that number across a thousand years, and you’ll realize just how low that number truly is.” Morpheus truly did wonder how many synthetic changelings they made. He didn't really recall all too well, but he was quite certain the Queen was underestimating. Or perhaps he was wrong and they only had this many synthetic changelings since day one. “Converted ponies make up an incredibly small percentage of our numbers. In fact, I can tell you with complete certainty that Applejack and Golden Harvest here are the only synthetic changelings in the entirety of Ponyville.” Turning back, he noticed that Reflect and Transparence were once again listening to her speech with rapt attention, nodding their heads every so often as if to confirm the Queen's intel. As he focused back, he noticed a brown hoof shoot up into the air. “If you want to know the number of synthetic changelings in other cities besides Ponyville, come see me afterwards. I’ll make you a list or something.” The hoof immediately went back down. “Thank you. Continuing on…” As he watched, Morpheus saw, for the first time since the Canterlot invasion, the actual Elements of Harmony. Not the ponies, but the golden jewels. They floated to their respective barriers, each attaching itself as if it was embracing the very pony that represented it. He had only vaguely recalled seeing the elements, just moments before he was knocked out by a party cannon to the face. The Queen addressed the crowd once more, “Now, I’m well aware that your all won’t be convinced by my words alone, therefore I’ve come up with another method by which to prove my truthfulness. So I say, let there be no secrets between us.” During the Canterlot Campaign, they had been in-active, and only glimmered because of the stainless finish that was left upon their surface. Now, however, he noticed they began to glow with a surreal light, just as his Queen's horn was glowing. Suddenly, a rainbow of seven different colors erupted like a volcano, splitting up as they zig-zagged among the crowd. Taken aback, he tripped over a rock and landed on his bottom as a yellow ray of light whizzed past him. Suddenly, a white orb floated a few inches off the ground, staring at Morpheus as if it was concerned. Morpheus turned around, noticing similar orbs hanging around each member of the crowd, before contorting as they formed necks, limbs, and even tails. As for his own, he saw a headless figure where the orb had been, although now it was beginning to form a head. Within seconds, he was staring at...well...a pony. The colt before him was white, with a prominent, black moustache that was accompanied by equally over-sized, butterfly wings. A flutterpony? Turning around, he saw Reflect and Transparence with similar flutterpony companions. Transparence was waving at hers: a sea green mare with a goldenrod mane. Meanwhile, Reflect simply held a staring contest with his jaw wide-open. Morpheus couldn't help but laugh at how his friend's flutterpony was a light blue stallion with an orange...well...afro-styled mane. As for the other ponies, they were looking at direct doppelgängers, which caused Morpheus to do a second observation, squinting his eyes. The thing didn't have a mouth, and if you considered blazing white eyes to be normal, then well...you come from a special place. The colt was sitting on his hind legs, in the exact position Morpheus was when he had tripped over the rock. That was when he noticed that the stallion had several indistinct black spots dotted along his coat.What are you... “The spell I performed with the help of the Elements of Harmony creates a projection of the soul and reveals your true self.” The Queen bore a solemn gaze, “And before any of you complain, no, I don’t consider this an invasion of your privacy. These aren't your innermost thoughts brought out for all to see, it’s just a picture of your soul, nothing more.” My soul? Morpheus stared at the flutterpony, with his jet-black handlebar moustache and wavy, black mane that hung over his neck. If it wasn't for the stupid grin dotting his face, he would have almost looked intimidating, like a proper commander. Transparence stretched her hoof out, trying to touch her soul while Reflect only continued to stare, his mouth drooling while his soul chuckled. Morpheus waved awkwardly, curious to see if his soul responded. The soul seemed to beam at finally being properly adressed and waved back jubilantly. Morpheus didn't know what to feel except...well...intrigued. His soul was watching him, eyes concerned as if he was wondering why his body wouldn't get up. "See this, right here? Take a look at this pony’s soul,” Chrysalis ordered, “Doesn’t look much like a changeling, does it? High-General Double, come forth!” Morpheus shook his head, getting up from his momentary trance to see Chrysalis waving Applejack around with her magic like some teacher showing off a jar of pickles. Double had already come up, her soul in tow, which was oddly reminiscent of her own favorite form. (No, not the Ursa Major, I mean like a regular flutterpony) "Make no mistake, Double here is a natural-born changeling. Yet look at her soul: it’s a flutterpony. It’s a reflection of who we are on the inside. And on the inside, these two synthetic changelings right here are still ponies. Their conversions have not changed the contents of their hearts; they are still just as much ponies today as they were before, and I believe we can all agree that any malevolent changes would be reflected by the soul, would they not?” The crowd still stared, unsure of how to deal with this current presentation. Morpheus himself had to agree he was absolutely flabbergasted. His soul was now doing twirls, and-believe it or not-placing etheral whoopie cusions under several other souls. Well that's my soul if I ever saw it. Morpheus thought humorously. “Don’t you ponies have a saying, ‘It’s what’s on the inside that counts?’ Well, these ponies are still ponies on the inside. So why does their physical appearance, the one that they hide for your comfort, change anything? Even we natural changelings are not monsters, as you can clearly see, so why can’t you xenophobic, ignorant masses just hurry up and understand that?!” The tone of his ruler's voice turned into a harsh shriek that caused him to instinctively back away, his soul cowering right behind him, peeking over his shoulder. However, Chrysalis managed to regain her composure, and brushed a hoof over her mane. “…Yes, well, that’s all. I have no more to say. I just hope you can all see reason now. The changelings and ponies are at peace; there is no need for such suspicion between us anymore. So please realize that.” "Buck me," Reflect finally got out of his trance, "did our Queen really just go dragon-voice on the crowd?" "I'd say," Transparence commented, "it looks like she wants to drive her point straight into the souls of these ponies." Chrysalis held her hoof out to her own projection, which took it and vanished in a flash of light. Turning back, she explained to the crowd that all they had to do was to relax and open their heart to return their soul's projection. Transparence carefully hugged her soul, fearing she would break it. Meanwhile, Reflect merely nodded and, making sure no one was looking, squeezed his soul in a bear hug. Morpheus too looked at his soul, who was still waiting on him. He stood there for a second or two, still perplexed at this entire experience as a whole. But, carefully, he reached his hoof out, and his soul happily did the same. Upon contact, however, Morpheus felt an electric shock jolt his hoof. Looking down, he realized that his soul was wearing a buzzer-a real buzzer- making inaudible giggles at his prank. "Very funny." Morpheus chuckled, his eyes darting back and forth. Once he was sure no one was paying attention, he too grabbed his soul in a hug. There was an emotion that spread through him that made him feel light as a feather. Eventually, after what seemed to be an eternity, the changeling realized he was hugging nothing. The silence that followed was more awkward then seeing the changeling Queen angry. Morpheus regrouped with his two companions, who sat on the ground in stunned silence, unable to comprehend what had happened before them. "Now what?" “Woo, go Carrot Top!” a voice suddenly cried, before a grey blur crashed into the synthetic changeling Morpheus simply assumed was Carrot Top. Surprisingly, the earth pony held her ground and observed the grey pegasus with a reprimanding glare. “Derpy, did you forget to keep track of time again?” The one Morpheus assumed was Derpy gave a guilty smile, before the crowd began to waltz up onto the stage, shrugging to themselve, to mingle with the two synthetic changelings. As the chatter of ponies making apologies and commenting on the speech surrounded him, Morpheus went to a bench, and sat, oblivious to the world as he tried to piece together what had happened. "That was amazing," Reflect suddenly popped out from behind, causing Mopheus to fall on his belly. "I can't believe she was able to do that!" "Yeah," Transparence added, "I really didn't expect that kind of speech. Seeing a projection of your soul and all." "Didn't you know," Reflect suddenly frowned, "that was the real deal! Those things were our souls!" "What?" Morpheus got up, his eyes wide. "What do you mean those were our real souls? I didn't feel anything was missing." "Yeah," Transparence argued, "nothing missing when I saw my soul's projection." "Well the Queen probably didn't want to alarm anyone," Reflect determined, "I mean, that wouldn't have gone well now would it?" Morpheus and Transparence sighed, blaming Reflect's outburst as another one of his absurd conspiracy theories. Changing the subject Transparence noted the ponies happily congregating on the stage. "I'd say the Queen did a fine job on that speech of hers. Sure cleared up a lot of grudges being held towards us." "Is it true though what they were saying about those anti-changeling groups?" Morpheus finally asked, the question having been on his mind ever since the incident at the library. "Yep," Transparence nodded, "it isn't serious, but I've seen it in Canterlot. It's understandable, considering that some of these ponies had ran into me during the invasion." Reflect let out a hearty laugh, slapping the bench as if it was in on the joke. "I'd be more scared then angry Transparence. You probably traumatized those wealthy foals for life." "Oh please," Transparence scoffed, swatting an invisible fly with her hoof, "I only dangled them up upon a two story building. Barely even frightening if you ask me." All three changelings began to laugh now, causing several bystanders to glance over them with worried expressions. When the laughter finally subsided, Morpheus began to swivel his head back and forth. "Hey, who turned off the moon?" "Why if it isn't my two favorite imbeciles." The familar, authoritative tone of Queen Chrysalis spoke out, causing Reflect and Morpheus to turn around, sheepish grins plastered on their faces. "Why my Queen," Morpheus noted, "ummm...we thought your speech was really good!" "Yeah!" Reflect added, "Really well done. I knew we voted for the right leader." "We don't hold votes in the Hive," Chrysalis replied bluntly, "but one thing that a changeling is good at is convincing the public that she means no harm." Turning to Transparence, she let out a small smile. "Transparence, would you mind if I borrowed these two for a moment?" Transparence only nodded, before the Queen grabbed hold of both males and vanished in a burst of green light. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The next thing they knew, they were in a dark, damp cave. Upon closer inspection however, the familar throne came into view, looking as regal as before, with its intricate designs and finely resined walls. Dropping both of them unceremoniously, the Queen flew up the steps before silently waiting for her two subjects to get up. Both changelings bowed before their Queen, as if they had come in through the front door. "You've requested our presence?" "Sadly," Chrysalis droned, "I am here to address you on a few...incidents." With that another flash of green revealed a scroll. Unfolding it, Chrysalis let it slide down the stairs, reaching the hooves of Morpheus who gulped. "Morpheus Bloom," The Queen read in a loud, booming voice, "Drone #769. 240 counts of hive misdemeanor, 24 counts of of property damage, 1 count of insubordination, no-make that 10 counts of insubordination, 5 counts of theft, and 2 counts of public misdemeanor." The Queen released the scroll, which rolled down the steps, returning to its cylindrical shape as she pulled out a second scroll from behind her hair. Spreading it out, she read, "Reflect Fury, 101 counts of hive misdemeanor, 56 counts of property damage, 34 counts of insubordination, 24 counts of theft, and 77 counts of public misdemeanor and thievery." Morpheus was gaping at Reflect. He couldn't believe that the changeling had a bigger record then his. "Reflect? How the buck did you get 77-" "THOSE CUPCAKES ARE MIND-CONTROL!" Reflect shouted, "I swear I saw it my Queen. That pink one is going to make us all do her bidding you just wait and see." Chrysalis facehoofed herself, holding in the urge to lob this piece of parchment at her Intelligence General. "Reflect, you barged into a schoolhouse, grabbed a tray of cupcakes, and proceeded to burn them while the fillies cried." "I did what was necessary," Reflect stated undeterred, "I regret nothing!" "Reflect," the Queen exasperated, "this is the third time you've cried out that the ponies are using mind control. For the last time, I myself have devoured a choco-watermelon cupcake and have seen NO, I repeat NO MIND CONTROL!" "You wouldn't remember." Reflect challenged. "I ate it in the throne room, accompanied by my High General and Morpheus himself, who I might add devoured the rest of the box." Reflect turned to glare at Morpheus as if the changeling had betrayed him. "You ate the cupcakes? After telling me that you thought it was an excellent theory that I should discuss with Double? You were eating the cupcakes the whole time?" "They were good!" Morpheus defended, raising his hooves in the air, "What did you want me to do? Let them rot? They aren't mind-altering Reflect. You just say that because of that one night in prison!" "That PASTRY CAT WAS EVIL!" Reflect shouted in a neurotic tone, "EVIL I TELL YOU! EVVVVVVAAAAAAALLLL-" "THAT'S ENOUGH!' The Queen shouted, her voice like thunder as she walked down the steps. Instantly, both changelings were silent, their heads now focused on the floor. "Morpheus, Reflect," the Queen said in a softer tone, "I am trying to express a point without your interjections every ten seconds! Now if I hear one more word out of either of you, I'll toss you in the dungeon myself! Understood?" Both changelings nodded meekly, causing Chrysalis to let out a sigh of relief, "Now, I've read your reports because those are the largest pieces of parchment I have ever had in my years as Queen. You two have caused more trouble then a whole gang of teenage dragons, and on top of that, I'm going around Equestria paying bail for both of you when I could be up there, reading speeches to convince these lesser mortals that we bring them no harm!" Morpheus raised his hoof, as if he was going to speak, but then silently let it drop. The Queen, her voice measured, continued. "Now I'm not going to punish you like I usually do, seeing as it has had little to no effect." The Queen let herself take another deep breath. "But I will say that it is quite apparent that your problem is no longer in the hive. Considering the incident at both the library and the schoolhouse, I'd say this is a worldly problem that must be stopped." Morpheus and Reflect looked at each other, unsure on how to react. Chrysalis herself had to wonder how these two subjects before her had come from her womb. Perhaps a remnant of Discord or something. "Now, I've deliberated this situation over and over again in my mind..." Morpheus and Reflect waited, standing on their corner holes. "...and I've decided that disciplining you would be utterly useless..." Both changelings sighed in relief, hoof-bumping each other for avoiding another week of maintenance duty. "...which is why I am going to suspend both of your jobs." "WHAT?" Morpheus and Reflect cried out simultaneously. The Queen was unfazed, her expression just as emotionless as before. She was unable to fathom the amount of idiocy that seemed prevalent in these two. Before, it was just Morpheus but now, the Queen realized that spending a day or more locked in a room with the changeling was contagious if not down-right destructive. "Until further notice, both of you have been suspended. I will be having no need for espionage and Alter has happily accepted the position to act as your substitute Morpheus." "That back-stabbing weed!" Morpheus smashed his hooves together, "after all I did for him." Reflect rolled his eyes, muttering something about hatchlings and manticores. "Now," The Queen began irritably, "that you are free of your duties, I've talked with Celestia, and we've agreed that you two should go on a little...vacation of sorts..." "Vacation?" Reflect was suddenly hopeful that perhaps the outcome wasn't as bad as he had feared,"what kind of vacation?" "An exchange-ling excursion to be exact," the Queen explained. "Think of it...well...as a forced vacation." Both changelings began to moan, their minds already coming up with possible outcomes. "You can't do this! We're too young!" "You're both adult males," Chrysalis stated, "and as such you'll either take this option or leave it to chance to decide your fate." Both changelings began to deliberate on the idea of an exchange-ling program. If they accepted, they would be flung horn-first into an Equestrian settlement, forced to do Equestrian jobs, and well...integrate with Equestria. This didn't seem too tantalizing, but if they refused, well...Morpheus and Reflect shuddered at the thought of what Chrysalis would do. "I guess we don't have much of a choice," Morpheus sighed, followed by Reflect nodding in agreement. The Queen let a small, devious smile spread on her lips. This was going to be easy after all. "Then it is settled," the Queen summoned another large piece of parchment from thin air. Unraveling it, both changelings could see it was covered in minuscule writing. "I'm going to be brief with you cause I'm a busy bee. The summary of the Exchange-Ling Disclosure Agreement simply states that in no way, is the Hive nor Celestia nor Luna responsible for any damage, charges, or any other unfortunate accident that should occur during your adventure. You will be completely on your own, save for your sponsor who will accept damages and bills within reassson." Chrysalis had hissed the words with such a venomous tone that both changelings felt paralyzed. "Sign here and here." she indicated towards the bottom, where a tiny region had been left sparse. Dipping their hooves in ink, both changelings stamped their signature onto the parchment. In another flash of green light, the contract was engulfed in flames. Reflect and Morpheus bowed, their minds buzzing with what they would do in another settlement. Maybe they'd be selling fruits in Fillydelphia, or gambling at casinos in Las Pegasus, or maybe even get to become guards in Manehattan! "If I may ask," Morpheus tentatively raised a hoof, "where are we going...exactly?" Chrysalis only seemed to brighten at the question, "Well, dear 769, if you really, really must know, your excursion will be taking place in..." ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ "APPPPPPPAAAAAALLLOOOOOSA!" Braeburn slammed his hoof on the mahogany table, causing both changelings to jolt awake. "And must ah' say it's my pleasure to welcome ya'll!" He was a heavy-built stallion, with a brown vest and hat. His green eyes seemed to counter his yellow coat and mane. Morpheus had recalled rolling on the floor when his Queen had so sadistically laid out their verdict. An exchange-ling program in Appleloosa, and the license was deemed active until the Queen decided otherwise. Of all the places he could ever be sent to, Appleloosa was by far at the bottom of his list, layered beneath twenty pounds of scat. Apparently, the sponsor committee couldn't wait when they received the news, and had insisted meeting in Sweet Apple Acres. Now, both changelings realized two very important details regarding their new program. One, that the committee was actually just one hyperactive stallion, who happened to be a cousin of the Element of Honesty, and two, that he was going to get on their nerves faster then a quarry eel on coffee. That, and the fact that Braeburn didn't seem to take a hint. The two changelings had sat down, without being asked, had pouted when Granny Smith set a steaming warm apple pie, devoured said pie before Braeburn had a chance to eat it, and had decided to snore through his introduction about himself. Yet, despite all of this, Braeburn was either remarkably patient or remarkably dim-witted as he continued. "Considerin' yer' the first two changelings to ever wanna live in APPPPAAALOOOSA! Ah' reckon Ah'd take the time to get all yer' paperwork done here before we saddle up!" "Absolutely riveting." Morpheus drawled, his eyes lazily observing two flies fighting each other for a tiny crumb left at the windowsill. Braeburn took out a brown suitcase, which he opened with a rusty creak. Digging through several papers, he eventually let out a yell of triumph when he pulled out two, fresh pieces of parchment, the ink still wet. Sitting back down, he began to read the first piece. "MORE-PHO-" "MORE-PHEE-US," Morpheus pronounced, "It's Morpheus." "Oh," Braeburn blushed, "Morpheus, well it says here ya' work as a guard or somethin'?" "Guard?" Morpheus stood up on the table, "I'm the Commander of the Praetorian Guard dear Braeburn!" "It's not a real position," Reflect hissed, shielding his mouth as he gazed indolently at Granny Smith baking yet another pie. Morpheues threw a venomous glare at his companion, but sat back down. Braeburn, apparently ignorant of the insult, continued on as if nothing happened. "Well Morpheus, can Ah' call you Morphy for short?" "You're not the first." Morpheus rested his legs on the table, leaning back as he resumed observing the flies' epic duel for a "Alrighty then," Braeburn grinned, apparently overjoyed that he was getting somewhere. Morpheus had to wonder how the stallion could have such a wide, big-eyed grin that occupied his entire face and made him look like he was being smushed in-between two pieces of plexiglass. "Morphy, Ah'm sure you'll be happy to know that Appleloosa could use a changeling like yer'self. With all kinds of trouble out there, settlers need to feel safe and secure." "Like I care," Morpheus shrugged, still fixated with the micro-battle happening to his right. Reflect, having observed Granny Smith for two whole minutes now, slammed his hoof on the table. "What's the hold up! I'm practically starving here!" "In a minute dearie," Granny Smith scolded, her eyes darting a dangerous glance at the changeling, "gosh you changelings use to be so cordial when we was enemies. Now, y'all just a bushel of spoiled apples." "Just keep baking," Reflect barked, "I think you'd kick the bucket before that pie is finished!" Braeburn froze, his eyes riveted on the changeling as if he was in shock. Eventually, however, he shook it off and resumed his warm, welcoming gaze. "Reflect was it?" Reflect nodded, grumbling to himself about something neither changeling nor pony could tell. "Well," Braeburn switched to read the second piece of paper, "It says here yer' a conspiracy theorist. Well I'll tell ya', there ain't no place more mysterious then APPPAAAALLLLOOOOSA that's for sure. Whole town may have been built in a year, but ever since, we've been having all sorts of myths and legends spreading around. Ghost riders, abandoned forts, even the headless horse! Good old Saltworthy would sure love both of y'all." "I'm more concerned," Morpheus eyed Braeburn directly for the first time in well... the entire meeting, "about our living quarters so to speak." "Say no more," Braeburn held his hoof out, "Ah' know you're an arachnophobic Morpheus! So ah' made sure to clean the place up myself!" Morpheus suddenly felt a wave of embarrassment sink into his gut, causing him to blush a bright pink. Braeburn, realizing his mistake, immediately patted the changeling with a reassuring hoof. "Ain't nothin to worry about Morpheus, we all have fears. Ah'm scared of snakes, and old Silverstar won't say it, but Ah'm pretty sure he has claustrophobia. So don't worry if you have a phobia. Cause here in APPPPAAALOOSA-" "WOULD YOU EVER SO KINDLY STOP SAYING THE NAME OF YOUR TOWN LIKE THAT!" Reflect yelled, his eyes blazing with anger. Braeburn took his hoof off Morpheus and slowly nodded, "Alrighty then, didn't know it was so aggravatin' for ya'. But ah' can't help it, and you're practically the first changelings to ever request APPAAL-ah' mean-...Appleloosa, as yer' traveling destination..." Reflect slammed his hoof. "Listen here buddy, I don't know how much you know or how microscopic your brain is, but me and my partner here don't wanna go to your APPPPAAALOOOOOSA!" Reflect had said the last word in a mocking tone identical to Braeburn's voice. "We're here-" "Cause you were punished," the stallion interjected, "Ah' knew you didn't want to come here, but well...ah' figured that with enough hospitality you'd change yer' mind or somethin'." Reflect sat down, his scowl still visible as Morpheus expressed his own irritable glare. "Listen," Braeburn explained, sighing as he took his hat off. "the thing is, Appleloosa has gone through tough times. It wasn't easy for us to negotiate with the Buffalo and it sure ain't easy organizin' with changelings too. But ah' reckon that whatever force brought ya' here, it brought ya' here fer' a reason." Morpheus and Reflect were silent, their glares only softening a bit. The room was quiet, Braeburn placing the hat back on his head. "Well Ah' ain't gonna force y'all to go, but-" "We have no choice," Morpheus grunted, "so I suppose the matter is settled. Just do us all a favor and please try to keep the Appleloosa stuff to a minimum?" There was a momentary silence before Braeburn grinned, and heaved the two changelings with surprising strength into a bear hug! "Thanks fer' giving me another chance!" "Just don't go pushing your luck colt," Reflect growled," I may be compliant now, but I swear if you-" Braeburn once again seemed distracted with his own thoughts, unable or unwilling to care. "Well let's all get you two to the schoolhouse so we can take a photo!" Morpheus suddenly felt a tinge of panic at the idea of taking a photo. "But-" "No buts," Braeburn warned, "Ah' took the liberty of getting yer I.D. cards printed out here so ya'll can have 'em when we ride on back to APPPPAAALLLOOOSA!" "You're doing it again," Reflect gritted between clenched teeth. "Does it look like Ah' care?" Braeburn laughed, "My oh my, ya' sure got a temper on you Reflect. Ain't nothin' to be shamed of though. Being forced to do yer' Queen's bidding would make anyone angry. But once y'all see the Appleloosian beauty and try the tongue-tangling cider, you'd be wishing Ah'd say it more often!" "I'm quite sure neither of us would," Morpheus growled, "you see, I honestly think the name is totally-" "Dandy?" Braeburn finished, "Morpheus, you're more fun then a whole band of banjo players!" Morpheus gaped wide-eyed, "I didn't say-" "Look at the time!" Braeburn dropped both changelings, his eyes like saucers watching the clock. "We gotta get goin' or we'll miss the train!" Before Granny Smith could set the steaming pie onto the table, the stallion had already shoved the two out the door and across the farm, talking non stop as they made their way across the fence, and down the road to the schoolhouse. "Ah' gotta say Ah' love seein' my cousin's farm and all! Even if she's a changeling like you, she's still the same Applejack I'd remember from way back when. Ain't nothin' changed about her on the inside! And really, it's the filling that counts." "Thrilling," Reflect muttered, crossing his hooves as he and Morpheus were being bulldozed down a dirt path. Braeburn was now galloping at full speed. "Ah' gotta say though," Braeburn shouted over the wind, "y'all ought to try our cider! Ah'm sure you'll find it just delectable! Ya' know, the cider is what brings us the business nowadays! Ah' think Ah' might have some but it ain't gonna taste too-" Cider?Morpheus' mouth began to water at the thought of the sweet, sugary drink that had managed to find a special place in his stomach ever since tasting it. When he had heard the Apple family only made cider during certain times of the month, he had been craving the drink more and more. As the schoolhouse came into view, the changeling let his tongue fly, his thoughts drifting to cider, apples, and happiness. Reflect, on the other hoof, still had his hooves crossed, and was grumbling to himself. If this was how his life was going to be for the next few weeks, he would have rather chosen Chrysalis to kill him on the spot. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Gosh ain't that a pretty sight?" The Ponyville Schoolhouse resembled a candy shop more then any elementary building Morpheus had seen. The exterior was dotted with various hearts and the roofs reminded him of chocolate. The bell tower itself was equipped with a weather vane, and a red flag stood saluting the school. As they were pushed through the brown door, Morpheus noted that somepony had taken the time to shear a the shape of a graduate out of a bush. Inside, he saw that it was composed of three columns of wooden desks, each emblazoned with heart-shaped holes. On either side were turquoise shelves, their contents ranging from globes to books on any subject you could think of. At the front of the classroom, where the blackboard should have been, was a blue screen that had been pulled down. A magenta mare and a younger, lanky pegasi colt with a brown mane and cream coat stood by. However upon their arrival, they dashed up to shake Braeburn's hoof. "BRAEBURN!" the mare gave the stallion a hug, "It's good to see you're still in shape! Me and Featherweight here are really excited about this whole new, exchange-ling program was it?" Braeburn blushed as he took off his hat, "It's mighty fine to see ya' too Miss Cherilee! Ah' got the I.D. cards all printed out and ready to go. Ah' just need to get a picture of both these changelings before we leave fer the train." "Of course," Cherilee turned to the tiny colt, who was fluttering right behind her. Around his neck was a large, sleek black camera that looked like it cost more then what Morpheus made in a month, if changelings were paid of course. "Featherweight here can take just about anything!" "Perfect!" Braeburn glanced at the clock, a worried look on his face. "Ah'm afraid we might have to do this quick. Train leaves tonight and it'll take us at least a whole day before we reach Appleloosa." Cherilee narrowed her eyes, as if she was about to embark on some very intense race, "Don't worry Braeburn, we'll get those pictures for you pronto!" Meanwhile, Reflect had stayed in his respective position, unfazed by the greeting. Morpheus, on the other hoof, was digging through a saddlebag, tossing out rope and horseshoes in his determined search for cider. Within seconds, Braeburn grabbed Reflect and had him pose in front of the twig-like pegasus. "Now smile Reflect!" With a click and bright flash, Reflect maintained his cold demeanor. Cherilee, looking over Braeburn's shoulder, began to pout. "Why what's wrong with that one?" She went up to Reflect, who regarded the mare with a scowl. "I'd say you look rather grumpy mister? Aren't you excited to be going on a trip?" "Absolutely thrilled!" Reflect replied sarcastically, before trudging past the teacher and purposefully bumping into Braeburn. Cherilee narrowed her eyes at the changeling's rude behavior, but none the less smiled at Braeburn, who had once again ignored the provocation. "Well I guess that's how they smile right?" "Yeah," Braeburn rubbed his neck, "can't expect every species to smile in their photos Ah' guess. Morphy! Why don't ya' come on down here?" "AH-HA!" Morpheus pulled out a shiny bottle. Braeburn chuckled, "Ah' see ya found some Appleloosian cider there Morphy, but Ah'm afraid it's been in the sun too-" "Nonsense," Morpheus interrupted, pouring the contents into a mug, "if you want me to smile, you'll let me drink this okay?" "Alrighty then," Braeburn sighed, "but Ah' just want to let you know that Ah' warned ya'." Practically holding back his eagerness, Morpheus stepped into view of Featherweight, who was readying his camera. Braeburn was shifting uncomfortably, his eyes glancing from Morpheus to the cider. Morpheus posed with the cup, "Now I wanna good photo of me, none of that cheap yearbook scat you foals usually do! This is a professional portrait!" Featherweight only stared blankly, before shrugging as he lifted the camera. "Three...two..." Cherillee began to count down. Sweet Apple-Morpheus chugged the golden liquid down his throat. "SMILE!" -SCAT BRAINS! Morpheus' look of ecstasy turned to dread as he practically gagged, before upchucking the contents from his stomach. Cherilee stood up, her hooves retreating from the now less delectable contents. Braeburn facehoofed himself while Reflect rolled over the floor, hollering his bottom off. "Well Ah' suppose those oughta due," Braeburn sighed, taking the two photos from Featherweight, "sorry 'bout the mess." "Oh," Miss Cherillee chuckled half-heartedly, "no worries Braeburn. Happens all the times. Just never...well...with changelings is all." The three quickly filed out of the classroom, making their way down to the train station. Morpheus had managed to hold his stomach in, but Reflect was still muffling a few more giggles that threatened to erupt. Upon reaching the station, with its hay roof and wooden pillars, Braeburn tossed the bottle of cider in a trash can, before turning to the two changelings. "Ok, Ah'm going to get these laminated at the office there," Braeburn pointed towards a wooden, worn down train. "Go to Car 11, and take these." Two shiny golden tickets were deposited in either changeling's hooves. With Braeburn gone, both Reflect and Morpheus slowly made their way, counting down each car. The train itself had a shiny, black engine. The cars were made with brown wood and had the familar metal roofs, The windows themselves were rectangular, revealing several comfortable beds within. Eventually finding Car 11, both changelings were met by a grey stallion in a navy blue conductor's uniform. "Tickets please." he called out in a high-pitched voice, holding his hoof out expectantly. Depositing the two golden tickets, the conductor retracted his hoof, before pulling out a small metal device that glinted in the sunlight. Cutting three holes into the ticket, he handed them back. But before either changeling could get in, he held a hoof out, blocking their path. "Listen," he whispered, "I don't like this anymore then you do, but for the sake of the trip, could you just disguise yourselves?" Reflect and Morpheus were about to retort when they realized that the conductor had a point. The trip would be more pleasant if fewer ponies knew who they were dealing with. Heaving a sigh, both changelings vanished in the all too familar column of green flame, replaced by the exact forms they had used during Chrysalis' speech. "Better?" The conductor nodded, his glasses hanging loosely on his snout, "I honestly don't have a problem with you, just that...well...I can't speak for the rest of our guests and this train travels all over the Mild West." "We understand," Reflect trotted past the stallion, Morpheus following close behind. Car 11 was composed of two bunks, each hugging closely to the wall while the isle led to a tiny parlor with an assortment of cider. On a nice, mahogany table, was a tiny white card that read 'Welcome Exchange-ling Adventurers!' Also on the table, was a bright red book with the all too familar Daring Do title accompanied by a tiny black book titled 'Equestrian Myths and Legends'. "Sweet!" Moprheus snatched the book," I was wondering what we were going to do here!" "Oh please," Reflect groaned, snatching the black book, before leafing through its pages with a deliberating eye. "Now this will be useful. Gotta know the facts about Appleloosa before we get our hooves dirty." Morpheus let out a loud yawn, plopping down on one of the bunks. His wing still had another few weeks to heal, and he was absolutely exhausted from the day's events. "I don't know about you Reflect, but I'm hitting the hay." "Same here," Reflect flew over to the top bunk, before carefully placing his book under the pillow case. "I just can't believe our Queen is sending us here. I mean, we aren't model citizens but this is too much. Morpheus, what do you think about all this?" The audible snores was enough evidence that Morpheus had indeed passed out. Sweet Celestia, that drone snores like a dragon in hibernation. Reflect shoved the pillow over his head, trying to block out the noise. However, he realized that it was of no use and simply stared blankly at the opposite wall, bored out of his mind. "Well it looks like our friend has hit the hay." Reflect stood up, surprised to see Braeburn crouched over Morpheus. Usually, his ears would have picked up the hoofsteps, but either he was too distracted or Braeburn was more stealthy then he looked. "You caught me there," Reflect murmured, "don't you know you never catch a changeling off guard? It's dangerous for your health." "Sorry 'bout that," Braeburn chuckled, before digging into his saddlebag and pulling two fresh, plastic cards out for Reflect to see. "Here's yer I.D. cards, Ah think you'll like them." Reflect took the cards in with a magical grasp. He smiled at his own I.D. card, before frowning when he read the bottom. "It says here I have anger-management issues," he complained, "I don't know-" "Yer' Queen provided the information," Braeburn held his hooves out innocently, "Ah'm just the middle mare so to speak." "Ugh." Reflect flipped to the card for Morpheus, and nearly fell off his bed in laughter. Braeburn joined in, so that Morpheus woke with start, his eyes groggily regarding the two. "What sour emotion has inflicted you this time of day?" he yawned. "This," Reflect flung the cards at Morpheus who examined them for a second. "OHHHHHHHHH COOOOMMEEEEE OOOONNN..." "AHAHAHAHAHAAA," Reflect rolled over the floor, "You sure know how to make a memorable pose!"