Time Unknown, Interrogation room Number 3.
"Once more. What happened? What else do you know?"
The small room was only occupied by a single plain looking metal table with one uncomfortable chair on each side. There was no echo so no matter how loud you yelled or screamed it most likely wouldn't be heard outside the chamber. There was a small shiny clock on the wall which was the single ornament to decorate the plain walls of the room. Unfortunately being so small it was almost impossible to see where its hands were pointing. The room felt crowded even though it was occupied by only three ponies and the claustrophobia was getting worse as the hours ticked by.
Tick.
“Officer Virtue?”
Tock.
“Officer?” The Mare in the grey suit sat opposite looking up from her paperwork at the fatigued Officer waiting for a response.
"How is anything I'm going to say differ from the last five times?" Red Virtue replied after a hesitant pause.
“I do not need to remind you that you are obliged to fully cooperate with this inquisition about certain recent events that concern the safety and security of Equestria.” the mysterious mare stated in such a way it would seem as though they had not even started yet.
“Ugh, just stop please. When do we have a break?”
Looking over at the sturdy guard by the door the only response given was a slight shrug and gesture with his head back at the interrogator.
Time Unknown, Interrogation room Number 5.
“Please, I will tell you everything this time I promise! I just need one thing.” Shadow Film broke down burying his head in his hooves on the table top.
The Royal Guard Sergeant looked up from reading the reports in front of him surprised by the sudden outburst from the dark stallion sitting in front of him.
“You're in no position to ask for requests. Spill it.”
Slowly looking up from his hooves and staring intently into the Guards eyes shadow film opened his mouth.
“I want. My camera. I have nothing to hide let me go.”
“Request denied. The camera is in the evidence locker and your not getting any released just yet.”
“Why you stuck up, no good son of a -”
Time Unknown, Interrogation room Number 7.
“-between section 11 and subsection A you are required under the Equestrian Forces and Auxiliary Powers and Responsibilities Act to provide suitable break times during intense interrogations and questioning sessions to keep all recorded evidence accurate and admissible in a court of law. Corporal? Corporal are you listening to me?”
“Ma’am yes Ma’am. I'm afraid I just cannot let you out just yet my orders are to keep you here until the conclusion of all the questioning. Sorry.”
Special Officer Gene Shocks patience was wearing thin and lecturing the unfortunate Guard that was chosen to babysitting her wasn’t amounting to anything. However the small beads of sweat that gradually increased on his face was somewhat amusing and a good sign he might crack soon and let her out earlier than originally planned by their superiors.
“Unacceptable Corporal. I request you immediately go fetch me another cup of water while I think about what to report to your superiors about these abhorrent conditions your keeping me in. “
“Oh, yes ma’am. I can do that for you right away, Ma’am.”
The door opened to the blinding daylight outside making Gene Shock squint and turn away. As expected the door was closed and with a soft ‘click’ she was left alone, locked in the dimly lit room. Stretching and pacing slowly around the room she looked closely at a small clock on the wall noticing it was just past five in the afternoon.
“Not long now until Princess Luna takes over from Princess Celestia. What in Equestria is holding us up?”
17:24hrs, Interrogation room Number 8.
Two Royal Guards stood at each side of the reinforced door preventing any escape from the intimidating interviewee. The air was still and the tension in the room could be poked and prodded with a spear. Officer Fromage stood on the opposite side of the table facing the pair of guards watching both of them watch him. With the single lightbulb in the room casting a shadow over his eyes neither of the guards could see if he was asleep or just staring.
Breaking away from the marathon stare contest one of the guards turned to look at his comrade to find his head resting on his chestplate and eyes closed. Looking back at the shadowy statue he still had not moved an inch so the guard moved closer to his friend and poked his shoulder to find he was well and truly asleep. Slowly moving closer to the large yellow earth pony statue in the centre of the room assuming he was asleep as well at this point.
Moving quick enough to give the curious guard a good jump scare Officer Fromage dragged out the chair on his side banging it loudly on the side of the metal table then sitting down on the chair with his hooves casually in front of him. The sleeping guard awoke at the sound of the chair slamming into the table drawing his sword to find one wide eyed friend and a very complacent stallion sitting down at the table with a small smirk.
“La nuit est young messieurs.”
18:00, Interrogation room Number 3.
The door to the small room was flung open slamming against the wall centimetres from the Royal Guard standing by the door scrambling to attention upon recognising Captain Redscotch.
“Enough. This is taking too long Deltawire what the hell is taking so long with checking the accuracy of the reports? I was expecting your final summary report on my desk at thirteen hundred hours.”
“Oh Captain, hello Sir, I must have lost track of time Sir.” The smartly dressed interrogator now introduced as Deltawire was not sure whether she should salute first or reply to her superiors slightly aggravated questions.
“Captain Sir, it’s good to see you again. How are the wife and foals?”
“Shutup Red, your virtue obviously isn’t in small chat. Go and make yourself useful and fetch Officer Shock and meet me in my office. Five minutes. I need to have a chat to Detective Deltawire here about punctuality.”
“Right away Sir.”
Leaving the Captain and Detective to discuss internal communication issues Officer Virtue passed the Guard by the door and emerged into the corridor lined with numbered doors.
Every so often there was a window overlooking Canterlot which in the setting sky looked extra impressive and beautiful with the final rays of sunlight illuminating the clouds with a red and orange haze. Street lights and buildings were lit one by one making the city twinkle along with the strongest of the stars as they began to reveal themselves in the darkening sky.
“I almost forgot how amazing this place was, night or day.”
Officer Shock slowed down from a trot to stand alongside Officer Virtue by the window viewing the vast landscape while Red looked at her staring outside.
“Why did you decide to leave? And how the hell did you get out of your room?”
Hesitating before replying she turned from the window and looked down at her armor pretending to rub off a mark on her pristine protective clothing.
“I wanted to branch out and get more experience instead of staying in the same checkpoint everyday, I like to keep busy and learn new things. Why did you opt for rural patrolling?”
“Fair enough, and I didn’t.” Seeing her questioning look at the short answer to her question Red continued “Actually it was a mandatory deployment, I didn’t choose to do it.”
“Oh, well you must have really impressed someone back at the academy to be sent out working on your own.”
“Not really, it’s a long story.”
Before Gene Shock could reply Red Virtue remembered the impending meeting with their Captain in his office which was meant to start very soon. Wrapping a wing around the top of her armor and pulling her down the corridor startling the small mare wondering what the hurry was and their destination.
“Hurry Gene! I nearly forgot the Captain wants to meet with us in his office pronto. I’d prefer not to get a lecture about time management, we’ll have to catch up later.”
After the clarifying explanation for the sudden panic Officer Shock galloped off in front of her friend down the long corridor past some Guards who were changing shift with a pair of shady armored ponies waiting in a dimly lit alcove. Red folded in his wings and followed suit and listened to the galloping mare in front of him as she called back to him from over her shoulder.
“You really don’t want to find out what happens, when you're late a second time!”
18:09, The office of Captain Redscotch.
“To say the least on our current situation your report is the most detailed we have received so far. However do not think this is an isolated case. Reports have come in about unusual activity with nearly no solid evidence to backup any claims. I'm afraid as soon as we received your report we needed immediate verification and we were hoping for more leads… why do you both look like you just ran the obstacle course?”
Officer Red and Special Officer Shock sat across from their Captain their faces slightly blushed and just enough sweat to mat their fur. Keeping their composure there were still many questions they wanted to ask however finding the right way to ask them was holding them back. It was an entirely new situation having a threat that could look like anyone around them as well as having the powers to fly and use magic.
“No reason sir.” Gene Shock answered trying to hold back any loud panting. “Do you know what their motive is sir?”
“The Princesses have been constantly asking me that every second day Gene. If we knew for sure you and Virtue wouldn't be in my Office and I wouldn't have quite so much paperwork keeping me from my wife.”
“What about the Prisoner?”
Captain Red Scotch looked at Red Virtue then slowly turned around to a small side table with some glasses and various bottles. Pouring himself a drink he ignored the previous question.
“Sir, sorry sir.”
“Thats better. I believe times are about to get even harder for us all however I will not have everything fall into disarray. The prisoner is currently being kept in a safe house, I need you two to go and find out what the Officers there have found out.” Taking a sip out of the clear crystal glass Redscotch continued. “Their reports are running late and the Princesses are becoming more concerned each day as we approach the Royal Event.”
“Which event is that, sir?” Red looked from Gene Shock back to their Captain sipping his drink.
“Haven't you been keeping up with the news and current affairs?” She replied “Its the Royal Wedding.”
“Indeed. It’s only a few days away and the Captain of the Royal Guard has already been increasing security in and around the palace. However with the lack of information we cannot adequately protect the Royals and the Equestrian public from a threat that has been so extremely secretive. Its like we’re trying to watch the sky for meteors and there’s someone digging a hole directly underneath us.”
“We better get started then, lets go Red. Sir.” Special Officer Shock stood and nodded in respect to Captain Redscotch as she prepared to leave. Leaning over the table and passing an envelope to Officer Virtue the Captain gave one final warning.
“We do not know the full extent of what these things can do so be careful and keep together. The address of the safehouse is inside the letter so do not lose it and properly dispose of it once you're done.” Finishing his drink in a large gulp and placing the glass down gently on the table he remembered one last matter of business.
“Oh and Officers.” Gene and Red stopped halfway out the door looking back at their superior. “Officer Fromage and your friend with the camera will be staying around headquarters for a while. Just incase we have any other questions or developments.”
“Yes sir.” They said unison, closing the door behind them and progressing down the corridor towards the main stairs.
“We need to get a move on to the safe house and without Shadowfilm hovering over my shoulder we should be able to get there a hell of alot faster.”
“But why would the captain keep Fromage from coming with us? I mean hes still fairly new but wouldn't it be better off if we stuck together?” Gene asked a tad worried about being separated from her first partner on the job.
“I'm sure the Captain has his reasons, and hey, i'll be with you the whole time. We can handle anything so long as we watch each others backs.”
“I guess your right.” Officer Shock replied with a small smile. “Do you think we should say goodbye to them before we leave?”
“We shouldn't be that long. No point in wasting time and having a few hundred questions to answer to Shadow. For once nearly everything i'm doing isn't being recorded.”
“Sorry Red, since we are here I need to make a quick stop at my old locker before we head to that address, how about you check out where we need to go and I will meet you at the exit in a sec?”
“Sure Gene. I'll grab us a few snacks as well, don’t take too long though ok?” He said, caught off guard at the sudden subject change and an unfamiliar tone.
“I wont.”
Opening the door to the main locker room things looked exactly the same as they did years ago. The walls were lined with lockers and each row through the center had a small amount more of room through the middle with the odd bench. Her hooves clicked softly on the tiled floor as she listened for signs of any other ponies and made her way towards her locker near the back corner. The only noise she could hear was the faint hum of the lights over her head and one of the showers dribbling water noisily into the tiled floor and escaping into one of the drains in the floor.
Arriving at her locker and entering in the combination to the lock it let out a loud click and the door screeched at her as she opened it in response to her years of neglect. The lower shelves had some old junk which she didn't need anymore but the reason she risked returning was for the small envelope at the very top still leaning against the back wall. Pausing for a moment she used her magic to elevate the letter into a pocket within her armor for safe keeping. Closing and locking her locker for the last time she started to leave the room pausing at the shower stalls running tap to use her magic to turn it completely off.
“Hello Gene.”
Spinning her head around to meet the voice she prayed she wouldn't hear again, at least not while she was alone. Standing a few steps away from her was Senior Officer Kemphog in full armor. His eyes seemed to be looking straight at hers but she knew he was evaluating everything there about her. Taking a step backwards nearly entering the shower cubicle she faced perhaps the one person she did not want to meet.
“You’re looking... quite well Gene. How has arresting uneducated rural ponies been treating you?” He asked not hiding this time as his eyes lingered over her armored body before returning to look directly at her.
“What do you want Kip?” She took another step back as he took another towards her.
“I heard you were in town so I thought I would see how you were doing. You have been in meetings and Redscotchs office most of the day. Now why would the good Captain bring a few rural Officers all the way back to the capital headquarters? As far as I know he hasn't gone through more than one bottle of that detestable liquid he drinks this week so other than wanting to have a little catch up with one of his favorites I’m guessing something rather important is going on. Am I right?” he questioned.
“The Captains ten times the better stallion you are Kip. Why would I bother telling you anything?” Shock fired back at him, thinking of an excuse to get out and catch up with Red.
“Maybe he is. But you don't go for the better stallions do you Gene? You go for the bad one’s to match yourself. I think you will tell me because I’m asking very, very nicely and because I know things about you. Intimate things Gene. Don't you miss the fun we used to have?”
“Tha… that’s not true. That was a long time ago.” She replied looking away and taking another step backwards to find herself against the wall and no where else to go. Standing up straighter with her heart thumping she looked back at the larger stallion and defended “I'm stronger and better now. I don't have to tell you anything.”
“You little forest bitch. Don't think anyone can protect-” His eyes were glaring at her and was close enough for her to smell his disgusting breath. Before he could continue they both heard the main door open and multiple pairs of hooves tapping on the tiles as a pair of officers entered mumbling to themselves.
“We aren't finished here yet Gene” Kip said under his breath in a hushed voice near her ear trying to block any attempt at an escape.
“We are. We’re finished Kip.” she replied pushing past his side and managing to just squeeze between him and the wall. With her head lowered and a few strands of her mane falling between her helmet and starting to cover one of her eyes she hurried past the entering officers who looked from her to Kip. She didn't want anyone to see her as her eyes started to fill with tears.
19:03, Officer Headquarters main entry.
Standing alone under the cloudy night sky Red Virtue was starting to become anxious about Gene Shocks tardiness. The cool breeze was starting to creep under his comforting armor and shifting nervously from hoof to hoof accomplished nothing except the odd glance from patrolling units. Taking in a deep breath he turned around to make his way back inside when he saw Gene Trotting down the stairs to him.
“Gene, where have you been? You've been in there for ages!” As she approached something didn't feel right. She was looking down and brushing some of her mane out of her face and came to a stop in front of Red.
“Sorry, I’m here now. It took a bit longer than I thought. Ready to go?” She replied straightening her helmet and looking at him with sad eyes and a small fake grin. As much as Red could tell in the gloom the light was playing tricks but she seemed a bit shaken up. Trying to get a closer look at her he could just make out where she had been fidgeting with her face a moment ago where her coat around her eyes looked slightly damp but she stepped back and turned on her serious voice.
“Officer Red, are we ready to leave?” Her voice still not matching her composure she did her best to stay strong. “What are you staring at Officer, don't look at me like that?”
“Sorry ma’am” He replied. Concerned about what was bothering her he tried to defuse the growing tension by asking her in a more casual way.
“Gene, is everything alright? You're acting a little different to usual.”
“Enough Red. Let get a move on you lead the way. Its nothing you need to worry about.”
“Gene, if you need to talk-”
“I said lets go Officer Virtue.” She snapped back regretting it as soon as she had said it so she softened her tone. “Thankyou Red, but not now.”
“Ok.” With a worried grimace he turned around to exit the main gates taking the lead into the sparsely populated streets with Officer Shock following from behind. The streets were illuminated only by the stars and moon and the unevenly placed lamps it felt like it was going to continue being a cold dark lonely night.
20:39, Safehouse.
“This is the place Gene, next house on the right. Feeling up to it?”
“Of course I am. Its time we get some answers, and figure out what the hell is go on around here.”
“Halt. Who goes there, identify yourselves?” A single Pegasus officer called out from near the entrance concealed in the shadows.
“Special Officer Gene Shock and Officer Red Virtue. Lower your voice and weapon.”
Approaching the doorway Red could not tell much about this house apart from it being similar to any other average rural residence. The yard was a bit more unkempt but other than that there was no way to single out this place or identify it as a safe house. If only the neighbors knew what the simple walls of the property contained. Giving a sidelong glance at Special Officer Shock waiting for some sort of signal on what to do next her face only wore a tired serious expression. Without further delay he opened the door and took a step into the residency.
Walking through the empty entrance towards the only lit room Red almost forgot what awaited him. Hearing Gene close the door a few paces behind him he took in a deep breath and standing up straighter, determined to look as intimidating as possible he walked into the sparsely furnished room.
The dimly lit room had a light pendant in the middle of the room which did little to illuminate the dark skinned creature that sat at the table with its limbs bound. An earth pony guard glanced at the newcomers quickly before staring back at the prisoner, determined not to let his guard down. To the left of the room was a small kitchen and behind the kitchen bench was a Unicorn Special Officer making some kind of hot beverage. Looking up from his mug he opened his mouth to introduce himself before being interrupted.
“Fuagh! So they send the blinding timber bitch to torture me do they? Just you try that pathetic magic of yours on me one more time.”
Trying to stand up and beginning to squirm in his seat causing the chair to rock, the prisoner was attempting to slip out of his bindings with little to no avail. The only reaction from the Earth Pony guard was a firm hoof on the shoulder pressing him down and causing him to stop his futile attempts of escape.
Officer Virtue was quite puzzled at the initial greeting however he didn't think that the creature was talking to him. Shifting around the Red without touching or looking at him Officer Shock stepped into the light ignoring the rude pony-like creature She formally introduced herself to the other higher ranking officer. This seemed to create an even more tense atmosphere in the room with the prisoner defiantly death staring at the grey unicorn mare. Red decided his best course of action was to stand near the entrance and keep and eye on Genes back while looking as professional as possible.
“I am Special Officer Shock and this is Officer Virtue. We have been sent here directly from Captain Redscotches office, I assume you are expecting us?”
“It’s nice to meet you Special Officer and Officer Virtue. I’m Special Officer Chromwell and I’m quite surprised at your visiting hours. I’ll be honest, I was expecting you both much earlier this evening or at least first thing in the morning.”
Chromwell said with a nod to each of them before finishing mixing his drink and placing it in front of him on the small kitchen bench where he could talk to both of them and keen an eye on his assigned task.
“I am sorry about the time, we were delayed. Has it said anything yet?” She looked into its large cyan eyes for a few seconds before turning back to the other unicorn.
“That was, if you excuse his language miss, the most interesting thing he's said all after noon. Perhaps even since coming into my custody. I didn't believe the report when it said you apprehended him, no offense. I know now that you definitely deserve the respect and recognition for getting one alive.” Chromwells eyes widened in shock at what he let slip and hastily took a sip of his drink to recompose himself.”
“What in the Princesses names do you mean by ‘getting one’? How many of these things have you seen?” Officer Red cut in trying to clarify the implications of more than one of these things being in Canterlot or even Equestria.
“I… I think you misheard me. Besides, it is all classified. I don't know anything.”
The pony thing started to laugh, softly muttering incoherent things under his breath while staring at the table as they all turned to watch him. Once he had finished after a few seconds he had an unpleasant smile on his face as he looked at everyone surrounding him in the room as if he was re-sizing them up. It seemed more confident now as his shoulders relaxed and leaned back into his chair taking in a steady breath.
“No. You don't know anything. You pathetic ponies know nothing.”
Chromwell put down his drink and reaching for a clipboard with some papers on it he began writing something down. Looking up every few seconds as he hastily scribbled out words at the very calm creature as if it would suddenly disappear. Stepping closer Gene came to a stop in front of him looking at him with a curious glance before checking behind her for support from Red and upon a confirming nod from him she thought it was time to try and get some answers.
“Well then Sir, would you care to enlighten us?”
“Sir? Sir… I like that. I hate you the most but that doesn't mean you will be the first. However since you are such a polite and well mannered little pony I may as well lay down some facts for you. You are all so simple after all if I don't tell you then you will never find out, besides its not like it will change anything. There are things in motion, Equestria wide, that cannot be stopped. Very soon you're all going to be out of a job.”
Having another small laugh at his own veiled jokes and threats he continued on uninterrupted from the increasingly nervous Guards. The way he was talking with all they could assume were poisoned words was causing discomfort and he knew it.
“I am known as a Changeling and my name. Well, my name you would not understand it anyway so we can skip that pointless question you have been asking me every hour” Taking a moment to pointedly look at Chromwell he directed his attention back to Gene Shock and continued on in such a way one might have been mistaken for walking in on two friends talking at a local tavern. With the obvious difference of one being in restraints and the other in a complete suit of armor.
“The question you were asking Chromwell that he so eloquently forgot to answer is that there are many more of these ‘creatures’ like me, all throughout this interesting land you call Equestria.”
“Well why are you doing this, what is your motive? Gene asked beginning to become worried about the security at the upcoming Royal event. These things can change into at least one other form as far as she knew. They could be anyone, anywhere.
“What do you want?” Red added. Not sure if the changeling was telling lies or fabricating some sort of half lie mixed with truth.
“Well I suppose I want what you all hope to achieve in your lifetime. We all want something you all have and give freely. Something we need but I have at least decided on what I want.”
“What?” Red and Gene both nearly shouted in unison at the changeling patiently sitting at the small table staring at Officer Shock.
“You.” He replied quietly, then in a slightly louder voice with a grin “I want you Office Shock.”
"Get this piece of filth out of here now and secure him in one of those back rooms. We don't have to listen to this filth." Chromwell barked at the Earth pony Guard standing behind the Changeling. Grabbing his drink Chromwell threw his drink into the sink as the prisoner was roughly dragged out of the room to be out of sight but not out of every ones thoughts. The room was silent now with the exception of the sound of hooves being dragged into the back room and the Changeling struggling with his captors.
"Uh, so. What did we learn?" Red asked glancing at both the Special Officers trying to restart the conversation.
"Well we know he doesn't like us and he especially doesn't like you or Officer Shock. Hopefully we will be able to get more out of him later on after he calms down. What do you think Gene?"
"Well I would say hes bored of being our captive and hes just making extremely vague threats. He didn't tell us anything other than what to call them and that there's a possibility of more incidences like the ones we have encountered. He really likes the sound of his own voice to even bother saying that much, however its a start. If there are more of these things throughout Equestria we need to find out how we can find them all, maybe some sort of screening process?"
"Is there a spell for uncovering these infiltrating creatures who are most likely trying to kill us all and bring an end to the world as we know it?" Red asked the unicorns, taking a seat at the empty table preparing some paperwork that Gene could send back to the Captain.
Making her way into the kitchen and opening a few cupboards with her magic she began searching for something.
"I'm afraid there's no more coffee, we finished off the last cup before you arrived. Sorry about that." Chromwell informed the very disappointed unicorn.
"Well may Luna give me the strength to get me home then. I don't think we will get anymore out of him tonight Chromwell. I guess its time for us to head back to Headquarters Red and catch some sleep. We can come back tomorrow and hopefully get something useful to tell the Captain and Princesses."
"I know its late but your going to leave just like that? This things barely told us anything and I'm not sleeping while its under my guard."
"I'm sorry Chromwell but I'm not an official interrogator, I cannot just get information magically out of his head. We were sent for an initial review and there's barely enough here to make a risk assessment for the Capital. We have both been in meetings all day and I know its nicer being on the other side of the table but I really want to head off. I promise I will be back first thing in the morning alright?"
"Fine, I cannot stop you. When you get back to Headquarters can you tell the changeover staff to hurry, I don't want them to be late. I think the three of us can handle the thing just fine but we don't know what its fully capable of at this stage."
Gene and Red got ready to leave and started heading down the corridor to the front room as Chromwell followed them out. Opening the door the cool night air caused them all to shiver and look around at the quiet neighborhood. A light fog was rolling in and already visibility was reduced to fifty percent nearly suffocating the streetlamps in the darkness. The Pegasus guard was still watching the front yard from the shadows however the light was reflecting off the wisps of smoke formed by his hot breath.
"Time for you to head inside Rom, go check on Nesbo in the back. No coffee left either before you ask." Chromwell motioned for the Guard to head back inside and prepared to close the door leaving Officer Red and Shock outside.
"Hey don't worry Cromwell, we will be back before you know it and I'll even bring a round of coffee. Keep things locked up and stay safe." Red said with a grin to try and lighten Cromwell grim expression.
"Thanks Red I'd appreciate that, gonna need it as well. See you in the morning."
The door closed behind them and with a few clicks of the locks they started walking down the empty streets. The light fog was all around them and the temperature had dropped enough for their armor to become icy to the touch.
"I should have brought my winter cloak with me. I haven't seen fog like this in a long time, cannot even see the stars tonight." Gene whined softly, not sure what else to say as they walked back towards their accommodation.
"Looks like its your lucky night I've got a blanket in one of my saddle bags if you want it?"
"Oh, no its fine Red, I'll be OK until we get back."
"Come on Gene, why not? Whats with you lately you seem down. Was it something the Changeling said? No... you have been acting strange since after the meeting with Redscotch. Was it something he said?"
"I'll be fine Red. Its nothing. I guess I'm just thinking about what we should tell Captain Redscotch tomorrow morning." Trying to change the subject Gene just wanted to go home and go to sleep, the day had been bad enough.
"mm, wait tomorrow morning? Were we meant to meet with him again, I thought we were going to head back there after visiting the safe house again?"
"Well we need to just quickly call in and tell him about what we know so far, it wont take long. You took a few notes didn't you?"
"I thought you did, Special Officer?" Half jokingly half worried Red did not want to disappoint the Captain. It felt as thought he hadn't studied for an exam and it was due the very next morning.
"I was the one talking to him. I thought you were ? I know Cromwell was."
"I'm going to go back." Red stated stopping on the sidewalk and turning around facing the way they already came.
"What? Are you crazy, what for its nearly midnight Red?"
"I will be right back, I'll go get Cromwells notes and we can use them for tomorrow morning. Problem solved. He won't need them until after we get back anyway. Will you be alright heading back on your own?
"Of course I'll be fine. I took down the changeling! You were the one who was stuck to the floor."
"Valid point. I'll see you back at Headquarters Gene. Take it easy."
"You take it easy and be safe. I'll see you in the morning."
With that Red stretched out his stiff wings and took off flying low and slow back to the safe house. It was painfully obvious that Gene had more on her mind than the possibility of multiple psychopathic monsters lurking throughout Canterlot. However perhaps after some rest she may feel like explaining more about what was bothering her.
00:08, Safehouse.
Landing softly and trotting for a few steps before coming to a halt Red was back at the Safehouse. The street looked exactly the same as far as he could see, which was only a few blocks at most. Feeling a bit more chilly now that the cool breeze was evaporating the sweat from his coat he was ready to retrieve the paperwork and get back to his bunk for the rest of the night.
Walking between the low shrubbery talking a shortcut through the front garden instead of staying on the path Red noticed the same light was still on. All the other lights in the street were turned off and only the streetlamps fought to hold back the darkness.
"They must be afraid of the dark. Although having that thing staying with them I guess I cannot blame them" He thought to himself.
Slowly approaching the door he intended to give it a couple of good hits with his hoof only to find that after the first knock the door creaked open slightly. Moving to the side of the door against the houses front wall he was just able to tell from the combination of filtered streetlights and the single light inside that the door knob and parts of the frame had been broken. Straining his eyes to look at the door he could see that splintered pieces of wood stood outwards sharply from the frame and the outside half of the door handle was on the ground. He couldn't hear anything inside. No movement inside and the breeze outside had all but come to a stop turning the surrounding flora into towering shadowy statues.
Officer Red did not have his spear with him and lacking his helmet he felt especially vulnerable and alone. Using his mouth he unsheathed his small knife holding it tightly between his teeth. It gave him a slight sense of security and courage, however it was only a knife and he didn't know what he was up against. If the prisoner had escaped then why was the door broken from the outside?
Using a fore hoof to lightly tap the door open it thankfully opened up completely without another sound. The corridor was exactly
as it was before, nothing seemed different except the light at the end room was moving. Ever so slightly it was swinging back and forth casting long shadows across the floor and walls. He could only hear and feel his heart throbbing in his chest, listening for any signs of life or danger.
He gingerly took a few steps inside, quickly getting out of the doorways immediate choke point and into the closest room. The living room was a mess with cushions over the floor and a random blanket that looked like it had been thrown towards the doorway. The couch was crooked and the far wall had a large dent in the plasterboard and a shattered picture frame nearby on the ground. Interestingly the picture was of Canterlot at night with its bright lights shining out from the mountain side with a small title and subtitle at the bottom.
Canterlot, the shining Jewel of Equestria and the City of Harmony
Clearing the room he entered the kitchen as the light was slowly returning to stability. There was blood pooling around hard green patched behind the kitchen bench with blood streaks trailing off over the kitchen bench before again pooling on the table which looked as though something or someone was dragged and slammed down on top of it. Readjusting his grip on the knife and swallowing hard to suppress any emotion so that he could try and maintain his sense of calm. With this amount of blood at least one pony would have to be dead. Approaching the open door where the prisoner was taken to be restrained the door was opened. The adjacent bathroom door was open to reveal more blood on the tiles and a bath full of bloody water with the Pegasus guard Rom face down motionless in the dark. Red could even smell the blood from the hallway as it slowly evaporated and drained away with the water.
Looking back into the prisoners chambers we was surprised to see the thing had its back to him looking out the window. Its eyes moved from the reflection to look at him back to whatever was outside. Entering the room he turned on the lights with an outstretched wing watching the prisoner as it sat there unfazed. It still has its restraints on.
"Surprise."
As the lights flicked on the voice came from next to the switch and as Red turned to step back from being startled he was shocked to find himself facing another changeling already in the process of swinging a crooked bladed ax held with its green magic in a downwards arc. In slow motion he saw the monster slice all the way through three quarters of his outstretched wing leaving a stub as the ax collided with his armor and came to a stop embedded in the wooden floor next to his severed wing covered in bright red blood. Falling backwards in pain into the door and stumbling backwards out into the hallway the searing pain threatened to bring him to his knees. Screaming in agony his knife fell from his mouth and fell rolling back into the room.
Another Changeling emerged from the bathroom behind him preparing a spell and aiming at his back. With adrenaline increasing and his blood decreasing at a rapid pace Officer Virtue double bucked the Changeling back into the bathroom. Hearing the sound of breaking glass and a splash he assumed it would be down for the count. With the action of kicking his rear enemy he was now thrust back into the room bumping into the remaining Changeling who was trying to recover the small hatchet landing on top of the threat and pinning him down with what little strength he had left. Looking up for something to use he spotted his knife on his right side against the door trying to reach for it with his other wing. The changeling who sat at the window finally turned around and lifted the knife away with his magic throwing it away carelessly. As he heard the knife bang against something metal all remaining hope left him. Trying to hit the Changeling under him and using his remaining wing to unsuccessfully whip at the approaching prisoner it caught his wing between its holey hooves twisting it painfully then letting go and kicking him completely off its friend causing him to land flat on his face in a heap. Slowly rolling to his side gasping for breath he watched as the Changeling he had pinned pushed the prisoner away from helping him and regain his hooves.
"GRAHHH" Red screamed in defeat with his last ragged breath. Hopefully one of the neighbors would hear the commotion and their cover would be blown. There was no way he would be escaping alive now trying to reach the bleeding stub he could almost feel as if the wing was still there. If he could keep the pressure on the wound he might live a few precious more seconds.
Standing before him the changelings horn glowed and a cold sticky mass attached itself over the stub of his missing wing preventing it from moving back and forth. The floor was covered in blood and his armor was stained and dripping but the wound was sealed for now. The Changeling ripped out its small ax from the floor boards and Red tried not to look at the severed mass of feathers and bone that was once his wing.
"What are you going to do with this one Soldier?" The prisoner asked watching Red rock back and forth on the ground trying to stand back up. The soldier kicked Officer Virtue back into the wall adding another dent to the armor and again winding Red.
"Whatever I want to you fool. Perhaps I'll get rid of that other wing while hes still alive. It's such a pitiful excuse for a soldier, this land will be easy enough to conquer."
"Release me."
"No. I have to complete the task I was sent here for first before doing that."
"What do you mean. Your meant to take me back to the hive, my cover is blown. I need to get out of here before more of them come." Desperately arguing for his freedom the prisoner was starting to become visible worried now.
"You think this was a rescue mission? Your an expendable scout. You have not served your Queen well and she does not want to keep any failures around." The soldier raised the ax over its head preparing to attack the chained Changeling.
"No, wait-" The ax landed on the middle of his head sinking through his skull leaving only the ax head visible. Dropping to the floor as a lifeless husk a dark blood began to pool on the floor. Leaving the ax in the prisoner the solder turned and left the room. After a few seconds it returned with a hurt looking changeling female dripping watery blood from head to hoof all over the floor. It looked extremely angry and there were a few small cracks in its hard skin where he had kicked it and an odd piece of glass or two still sticking out of its back.
Casting another spell it picked him up throwing him against the wall again before dragging him out of the room through the corridor throwing him into the bathroom leaving him on the ground on top of a few shards of bloodied glass which began to cut into anywhere he was not armored. Leaving him alone the soldier again disappearing for a moment returning with some chain that used to imprison the now dead Changeling. It was incredibly frightening they were now working in near silence as if it was something they had done thousands of times before. Tying his rear hooves and hanging him from the shower curtain railing upside down the remaining blood rushed to his head and he was already starting to lose feeling in his hind legs. The dead Pegasus guard was still in the bathtub face down below him now as he swung back and forth over the tub and the bloodied glass covered floor.
"W..what are you waiting for?" Red managed to ask, not even expecting a reply anymore.
"Tell me about Canterlot pony. How many guards are there usually in the barracks? How many Pegasi and Unicorns are there?
"What? I... have no idea. Even if i did know I wouldn't tell you."
"Very well."
"That's it?" Mumbling in confusion Red was not sure what these things were planning on doing anymore.
They both turned around and left him hanging there as the chains continued to bite into his legs and the pain on his missing wing started to increase again. Officer Virtue would hear them moving things around and occasionally breaking something. They were looking for something but he didn't care what for at the moment. The room was getting darker and every time he blinked he felt more and more tired. Hanging there for an unknown amount of time he slipped into blissful consciousness releasing him temporarily from his pain and the smell of death.
05:13, Safehouse.
Officer Red Virtue was dreaming about being back in a small sleepy little town. Walking beneath the radiant sun and beautiful sky down the sidewalk with his wing wrapped around someone he loved. The dream shifted from bright colors to darkness and red, he could hear metal chains and someone approaching. Nearly returning to consciousness two earth ponies stood in front of him. Before he could sigh in relief thinking the nightmare was finally over the pony at the front stared at him for a second before kicking him in the chest again and again. Not sure if this was another terrible dream or not he remained hanging there limp unable to do anything to defend himself.
"Hes nearly finished." the yellow female pony remarked to her counterpart.
"I better be quick then. But not too quick."
Reds vision was fading in and out from the darkness trying to take him away from the waking world but he kept willing himself to stay awake. To stay alive. Painfully stretching out his remaining wing the brown earth pony unsheathed an ax. Officer Virtues eyes closed involuntarily taking in a deep breath some words from his oath stated to replay in his mind as he braced himself for the worst.
'...to serve and protect the land and citizens with honor... '
Blinking his eyes open once again he could see that the dirty ax was raised over the earth ponies head poised to disfigure his broken body once more before granting him a release from existence. Closing his eyes he awaited the blow and following pain.
'...until I am dismissed from my service or death restrains me.'
"Wait. Hold up I think I can hear something outside." The female announced quietly placing a hoof on the males shoulder to prevent his actions.
"Whats wrong with you? Go check it out then."
She left the room and after a few seconds there were multiple explosions around the house. Red could hear glass shattering and doors being kicked in as the disguised female Changeling screamed at first in surprise and then in a crazed fit of rage. All he could see was the males head looking back through the door in confusion before turning back to the dangling officer and glaring angrily into his eyes.
"Their too late." was all he said before swinging the ax and severing the remaining wing. Thrashing wildly around in his restraints the warm blood started to freely flow down his abdomen and along his neck before dripping steadily from his chin. The changeling soldier grabbed at the damaged breastplate holding the officer steady before preparing to deliver the very final blow. The room was starting to loose color and it felt as thought all his limbs now had pins and needles sticking into them.
In slow motion through blurry eyes Officer Reds rescuers charged into the bathroom. The silhouetted guards with silver and gold armor flung away the dirty weapon and tackled the enemy soldier though a supporting metal pole and into the sink basin shattering it as they fell struggling on the floor. The metal pole bowed and bent dropping Red half into the bathtub of bloodied water landing on top of the deceased pony. Trying to find something to grab onto to get out of the water he kept slipping on a combination of bloodied broken glass and water. The bathtub itself was lubricated with filth that was getting stirred up from Reds poor attempt at swimming and threatening to be ingested through his nose and mouth.
Two strong hooves grabbed the sides of his armor and heaved him backwards causing him to land on top of some pony before rolling to his side coughing and spitting. The water was preventing his wounds from coagulating with the added sensation of intense stinging.
"By the Princesses. MEDIC, get a medic in here now!" Some pony shouted and continued to shout but it was finally time for Officer Virtue to slip into a peaceful and dreamless state of unconsciousness.
08:30, The office of Captain Redscotch.
Special Officer Gene Shock slammed open the door to the Captains officer making it bounce back and close itself behind her leaving quite a large mark on the wall. She only had a few hours sleep and was currently only in half her uniform standing before her superior however she had little choice. Being rousted by a messenger saying it was urgent that she meet with the Captain she wasted no time in getting to his office.
"Sir, Whats' happened?"
"I'm afraid it's not good news. Perhaps the worst report I have received for a very long time."
Captain Redscotch was bent forward in his chair looking down at a few pieces of worn paper in his left hoof and sipping his drink out of his right. The room was still dark with the blinds barricading the occupants from the risen sun draining the colour from the room and making the Captain look much older than before.
"The safe house has been infiltrated and destroyed by an unknown number of assailants."
"When did this happen?" Taking a seat at the desk the realization began to set in about the seriousness of the situation. The safehouse held their only lead and beginning piece of the puzzle.
"Late last night or very early in the morning, I'm not quite sure at the moment. The replacement Officers reported something amiss with the building and called for reinforcements before entering the premises. We are not sure how the safehouse was compromised but at the moment we are trying to recover from our losses. Two confirmed Officer deaths, one Officer missing but presumed dead and another in critical condition after being severely beaten and mutilated." Redscotch let go of the papers and let them rest on top of his desk facing Gene for her to take a look.
"The Princesses. Do they know?" Picking up the papers she started looking for more clues, anything that could help them.
"They have been informed but there will be a proper meeting later today at the castle." Lifting up his glass he took another sip.
"Red went back to get some reports last night. Is he...?" She trailed off hoping that nothing had happened to him.
"I'm afraid he is the one they managed to recover however he is in critical condition. I'm so sorry Gene. Officer Fromage is guarding the ward as we speak at Canterlot Central Hospital."
"I... I better go check up on him. Sir." Nodding and standing up she began to leave.
"One last thing Gene. Deltawire should be at the scene of the incident, I need you to check in with her later on and see what you can find out. Someone must have said something to help our enemy."
"Yes sir. Don't worry we will catch the ones who did this."
"I'm afraid both of the suspects were unable to be successfully arrested. They were killed as a result of resisting arrest. The thing that you captured was also found deceased at the scene. We seem to have hit a wall in our investigation."
"They call themselves Changelings sir, we were able to find out at least that much."
"Changelings huh? I'll see what the researchers can come up with at the library. I want you as well to come to the meeting later today Gene. I know a lot of things are happening all at once but I need someone who I can trust to be my plus one and your experiences and knowledge will be invaluable."
"You can count on me Sir."
Closing the door behind herself Gene tried to prevent herself from an all out gallop to the hospital but was only able to restrain herself to a very brisk pace. This brutal attack seemed to have only been the first of what the Changeling had told her would be an 'unstoppable event'. Walking out to the open streets they were bustling with ponies going about their daily business and others hanging decorations along the lampposts and houses getting into the celebratory mood. If they knew what was happening then it might trigger more attacks and a wave of panic throughout the country. The wedding will still go on, they just had to find a way to reveal their changing enigma of an enemy before there were anymore fatalities.