I do not own My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
In the lab underneath the library, items made of steel, wood and even paper, laid in piles about the lab. Most of these piles were burnt or warped, unable to handle the magic being pushed into them, or the runic arrays incorrectly made that spelled their doom. Some bowls even held a few mysterious liquids, that at one point, use to be solid objects.
Notes laid scattered amongst a different part of the lab, each detailing the failures and successes and the reasoning behind each one. A few books laid open or stacked on another table, all detailing different theories and working of magical pathways and enchantments to make ones own personal, custom item.
Near the center of the room was an empty space, surrounded by equipment made to make a magical filed to contain whatever was inside. The said inside was scorched and burned to varying degrees, be they from fire, thunder or even raw heat that had made slight holes in the floor.
At the moment, all was silent as the lab seems to rest and completely at peace as if it were asleep.
The slamming of the door leading to the main floor made for a rude awakening however, as one black stallion and one lavender mare came down. While the former looked calm, the later was wide awake and not exactly happy.
“Of all the things, why did you cast an illusion spell on me?” Twilight complained, not wanting to give the black unicorn a rest, “Maybe a better question is why would you ever do something like that to me!?”
Rolling his eyes as he touched down on the lab floor, Masquerade asked, “Do you feel more awake and alert?” Already moving off to get working on another test Twilight wanted to do.
Pressing her lips into a hard line, Twilight grumbled, “Yes.” But quickly rallied with, “But that still doesn't mean it’s right to put your fillyfriend under an illusion and force her to sleep!” Moving off to her own side of the lab to gather the needed materials for the next test.
Sighing, Masquerade had to admit the mare was right in a sense. He should have not just cast an illusion to put Twilight to sleep like that. Giving her some herbal tea laced with a bit of Daisy’s sleeping tonic would have worked just as well, but more subtle.
That reminds me, I need to recheck what potions I have and need to replace… Mask also thought, but instead said, “I did that because you already had pulled an all-nighter during the end of the whole Cinder Lock case with me.” Trying not to sound aggravated.
Roughly putting down another wooden plate with a new array of ruins, Twilight grounded out, “Was there a problem with me helping you on that?” Quickly taking up a new wooden plate and putting on a new ruin onto the blank plate, “I do all night study seasons all the time. I can handle it just fine!”
“It’s not good for you.” Masquerade argued back, already going through the plates he help make and looking over the ruins Twilight had started making, “I don’t want you to make some huge mistake or laps in judgement from lack of sleep.”
“And you can?” Twilight question, “Does being changeling just let you stay up for much longer than a pony like me?” Knowing that somewhere in her head she was tanking things a bit far, but was too angry to think otherwise.
Though able to feel the anger, Masquerade was finding himself at a loss how to curb it. So far, his earlier attempts had failed, which told the changeling that Twilight was really angry at him this time. Admittedly, he didn't really like the taste of her bitter feelings. “Changelings can be awake longer, mostly because we live where night and day don't effect us. But we still need rest after twenty hours of work.”
For a moment, Twilight just glared down at her next drawn ruin, going over the lines inside to make sure the array would work. Using her magic, Twilight somewhat played with the pendent around her neck, feeling the small trinket take some of her magic in near unnoticeable quantities.
Letting out a frustrated sigh, Twilight had to remind herself of what Roma said. He’s just worried, so it stands to reason he would look after me so much. Gaining a small frown at the thought. She didn’t hugely mind him caring for her so much, she actually loved it. But sometimes Twilight wondered if it was good for the stallion to worry over her so much, to have to go to such lengths.
Mask didn't make any sound, already reading the emotions changing and twisting into others. Frustration, guilt, fondness, worry… Shaking his head, Mask thought, mares…so emotional… It made him wonder how they could go through such emotional roller-coasters near daily.
“Mask…” Twilight started, pausing as she was unsure what to say for a moment, “It’s not that I’m ungrateful. It’s just—”
Before the mare could say more, the door leading to the main floor was slammed open and Spike called down, “Twilight, Mask, A letter from the Princesses’ just came though!” Being more than loud enough to get the two’s attention.
Looking up the stairs, then at the other, Mask slightly chuckled and said, “Duty calls.” Putting down his half of the work and heading for the stairs. Twilight herself waited for a few moments, sighing at the interruption before heading up with the stallion.
When both reached the main floor, Twilight was quick to notice not one letter but two. One she could tell was for her, being tied in a red ribbon and sealed with a gold seal. Masquerade’s was instead tied with a blue ribbon and held by a silver seal, and if she was right, would hold the seal for the lunar guard.
Taking up the letter that was her own, Twilight broke the seal on it and began reading through it. Masquerade copied her move for move, going nearly the same pace she was when reading their respective letters.
“Are you being told to go to Canterlot?” Mask asked, raising his brow at his task to be done, trying to figure out the reasoning behind it. For some reason, he had to meet up with a number of ponies that lead Equestria’s military groups.
Nodding, Twilight asked, “Are you being told of a new guard being set up and requiring your involvement?” Reading how she was being asked to help ease or form some unity among three different groups of changelings with Canterlot’s own garrisoned troops. Why she was being given this task was beyond her, but if Celestia wanted her to, she would.
Tilting his head, Mask responded, “Military leaders and the leading guards to each devision. You?”
Rolling her letter up and giving it to Spike to file, Twilight said, “Helping Cadence with keeping the peace with the the new groups of changelings that will be acting under Luna’s authority.” Not sure how to take her task at first.
Masquerade narrowed his eyes at the thought, why would Celestia ask Twilight to do that? She’s not part of the guard or military… Sure I found out recently she’s an element holder, but she isn't really required to do something like this. While outwardly he said, “Sounds like bundles of fun.” Incinerating his letter as he did.
Sighing to herself, Twilight looked from the front door to the door leading to her lab and asked, “ I think we might have a while before we get picked up. Mind if we try and finish what we can on the ruins?”
Looking to Twilight for a moment, Masquerade thought it over before nodding, “Might as well, it might be a while before we get back to working on it.” Heading for the lab with Twilight.
After a few hours of waiting, Cadence could spot the carriage that held both Twilight and Masquerade, flying over head to make a proper landing. Though it was mainly for business, Cadence had to admit that she was excited to see her sister-in-law once again and maybe visit if given enough time.
When the chariot had landed, Cadence was quickly upon them, smiling brightly as the unicorn couple stepped out of the carriage. That same smile slightly faltered at Twilight’s annoyed glances at Masquerade, whom seemed to be trying to keep from wincing. With a sad smile, Cadence was able to read the two’s actions, noting to herself to ask Twilight with what was going on.
For the time being though, the princess called them over, saying, “Masquerade, Twilight, I’m glad you were both able to come on such short notice!” Waving the two over and meet up with her.
Both unicorns cast the other a short glance, and walked over to the pink alicorn. Twilight had gained a smile at the sight of her old foal sitter, saying in replying, “We would have come sooner, but Mask wanted to bring a few extra things with him.” Casting a slightly withering glare at the stallion.
Sure enough, Masquerade did have a few extra things. Namely the black cloak that hid a good amount of his body, and no doubt to the princess, his weapons. The stallion thankfully kept the cowl down, as to not arouse too much suspicion around the guards.
Masquerade then sent a look over to his fillyfriend, saying, “Well, so far I’ve needed some form of protection every time I’ve come here. I have very good reason to be cautious.”
Looking between the two, Cadence asked, “I’ll assume the both of you know what you’ve been called here for?” Motioning with her head for them to follow.
Doing so, Twilight nodded, “Yes. Princess Celestia wanted me to apparently smooth over some arrangements between the guard garrisoned here and a… group of changelings?” Still unsure why she was being asked to do this.
“Miss Moonlight said that I was required to meet up with most of the major leading heads to the different branches of the Equestrian military.” Masquerade nodded as well, looking just as confused, “But as to why, I have no clue.”
Smiling, Cadence told the two, “Don’t worry. Aunt Celestia and Aunt Luna want to have a word with you both before getting to work.” Already making a straight path to the dinning hall.
A silence fell upon the group, which felt slightly strange for the alicorn that was use to the chatter and banter that Masquerade and Twilight did. They either mellowed out, or they had a small spat before coming here. Cadence thought to herself, feeling the want to address it.
When their destination came not sight though, the princess of love decided to put it off until she and Twilight had some privacy. The way Cadence figured, Twilight would be more open with her without Masquerade butting in for a quick joke or correction.
Nodding to the guards on either side of the dinning hall doors, Cadence entered through the doors, with both Twilight and Mask following close. “Aunties, Twilight and Masquerade have arrived!” She loudly announced, making those at the table turn and look over to their guests.
Seated along the table sat the changelings Opulent, Sham and Intrusive. At the head of the table sat both celestial sisters, smiling in greeting.
Rising from her place, Celestia said, “Twilight Sparkle. It is good to see you have come.” Making her way around the table some to welcome her student.
Luna likewise rose, going around the table to greet the changeling infiltrator, while saying, “I too, am glad for your swift arrival Masquerade. We have much to tell.”
Trading the other a look, Twilight and Masquerade made their way to their respective Princesses’ for their orders. While Twilight greeted her teacher with a bow in respect, Masquerade just nodded his head, having an easy grin.
“What is it that you need us for Princesses’?” Twilight asked, somewhat kicking the stallion next to her with a rear-hoof for not showing a bit more respect.
Smiling in amusement at her student’s actions, Celestia said, “Your assistance in keeping the peace with my guard and the new group of changelings for one, my student.” Looking over to the changing heirs, who began to get up from their places to join the group. “Since the incident with the rouge changeling, I and my sister have come to the decision to start implementing changelings into our ranks.”
Luna took over from here, speaking mostly to Masquerade, “This new division is going to be called the Shadow Guard, and shall be under my employment.” And gave the black unicorn a calculative stare saying, “It was with my judgment, that you become the Shadow guard overseer, Masquerade.”
“Come again?” Masquerade quickly said, “Me? As in, the changeling rouge that has only been under your employment for barely a few months, and only has done one mission for you?”
“You misunderstand, young Masquerade.” Intrusive interjected, taking his place next to Celestia, “You are one of the only changelings that could make this work. You are an heir, and have the skills and understanding for this task.” Absently putting his smoking pipe to his mouth.
Nodding in agreement, Sham stood off to the side saying, “I’m the one who suggested you. And don't deny the fact that you can’t handle the responsibility. You have worked with groups before, and have the training to lead this Guard.”
At that moment in time, Masquerade wanted to once again beat the tar out of his older cousin for doing something behind his back. But in all fairness, he knew that Sham would do this with the best intentions in mind. Looking to Luna, Masquerade, “Alright, so what is the Shadow guard made for? Only as an anti-changeling defense?”
Celestia was the one to shake her head in a negative, saying, “We were hopping to make it into a information group. Luna’s guards have been excellent in stealth operations, but they don't have the same level of stealth your people possess.”
“Celestia is correct.” Luna said, “Our own guard can be effective, but mostly during night hours or times with low visibility. What we of Equestria need, is a group such as yours, to operate among the people and gather information vital to us all.”
With this news, Masquerade went into thought, letting his eyes drift to the floor and stare at the marble floor beneath his hooves. Twilight herself looked puzzled, and asked, “I don't understand… If this mostly involves Mask, then why am I here?” Looking to her teacher for an answer.
Smiling down at her star pupil, Celestia told the young mare, “I asked that you come because I knew that Masquerade would not keep this secret from you.” Sending a knowing look to the stallion who shifted ever so slightly, “I also wanted you to use your understanding with changeling to help ease my guard some. This will be rather sudden, and your brother will be busy introducing Masquerade to those overseeing our other militia groups, so I felt that you might be the next best choice, along with Cadence.”
Thinking on it for a moment, Twilight nodded saying, “I understand. I’ll be sure to do what I can to keep things in order.” Already figuring out how she should handle her coming work with Cadence.
Giving a nod, Celestia told both Twilight and Cadence, “That is good to know. Now, please go with Cadence and start on your task. We have a few more things to tell Masquerade about his new position.” Shooing them off with a hoof.
With a bow, Twilight left the room with Cadence, sending one last glance back to Masquerade who had finished his thinking and lifted his head to speak to those in the room. The doors shut before she could hear any words being said, not being given any clue what would happen next.
Walking for a while, Cadence glanced down to her sister-in-law, able to see the slightly trouble look on her face before looking further down. “Is that a new neckless Twilight?” She asked, entranced by the glowing lines of pink magic on the book shaped pendant, “It looks quite beautiful.”
Looking down, Twilight smiled sadly and nodded, “Thanks… It’s something Mask had customized for me and gave it as a gift.” Getting a warm feeling from remembering. It only became slightly sour with the events that had followed nearly a day letter and the events after she woke up.
Seeing this, Cadence softly asked, “So you’ve both been doing good since I last saw you both?” Able to read the slightly reluctant look on Twilight’s features.
“I guess…” Twilight said, a little saddened. Seeing her sister-in-law’s curious stare, Twilight sighed, “Mask and I had a bit of an argument this morning. I’m trying to figure out what to say.”
Nodding at this, Cadence asked, “What happened?” Putting a comforting wing over the lavender mare, “I’m more then willing to help. It is what my talent is for after all.”
Letting out small giggle, Twilight said, “Sure.” Becoming thoughtful for a slight moment and explaining, “About two nights back, Mask gave me this pendant and I found out that it was enchanted with ruins.” With a more happy smile, she continued, “After reading how it worked, I had this idea to help Mask with one of his spells using enchantments, ruins and other magical arrays for items. After almost a day of work though, Mask wanted me to get some sleep, even know we were so close to getting a few things done.”
It was here that Twilight sighed, shaking her head saying, “I wanted to keep working, and he wanted me to get some sleep. So, he decided to carry me up three sets of stairs, next to restraining me to my bed, then use a illusion based spell to force me to sleep.”
Cadence actually raised a delicate brow to this, a little surprised that Masquerade, despite his seemingly submissive nature towards Twilight, would take such a stance. Apparently Masquerade is more then willing to push back when he wants to. While outwardly saying, “And you’re upset that he did this?”
Snorting a bit, Twilight said, “Yes and no. I wouldn't be so angry if he just kept me from leaving my room and get to sleep on my own. But casting a spell on me without warning?” Looking a bit outraged at the idea, “No, I have to draw the line there, even if he was trying to do what he thought was helping me.”
Sighing, Cadence knew that the stallion could have handled the situation a bit more better. But this was balanced out by the fact that Twilight could be extremely stubborn when she was working on a project of her’s, and will not stop until she was satisfied, or passed out from exhaustion. Both were at fault, but for different reasons. It was with a rueful smile that the youngest Princess decided to do her job in mending her sister-in-law’s relationship problem.
After being told of the latest events and new set of responsibilities, Masquerade searched out the room that he was going to be meeting the leading ponies of each group of Equestria’s military power. The infiltrator knew that Shining Armor was going to be there for sure, being their superior as it were, and by some extension, his superior, just under the princesses themselves.
An interesting thought, Masqurade thought to himself, knowing that he was going to be ‘officially’ part of Equestria’s military, being head to the newly made shadow guard. Part of him wondered what made either Princess even consider him, seeing as they could have used one of their more trusted ponies and ignored Sham’s idea.
Thinking on it, Mask knew that Sham had pointed out all the advantages he held. The first being that he was an heir, meaning he could gain some extra pull if he gained the trust of his underlings, no small task by any measure. The second and more important reason being, he knew how to play the cloak-and-dagger-game much more effectively among even his kind.
The shadow guard is going to be more of an spy-net than any of the other guard. We will be tasked with sabotage, espionage and any form of subterfuge. Masquerade wasn't putting up any illusions. He was essentially becoming an informant to the Princesses’, and maybe assassin if the situation calls for it. That was what he was going to be before, but now he he had more to work with, and in turn maintain.
With a heavy sigh, Masquerade could only think, this is either some elaborate plot to make sure I don't betray them, or they honestly believe that I can be trusted. And I don't know which bothers me more.
Further down the hall the changeling was walking down, was the room he was going to enter. Inside and seated around a round table sat the current ponies responsible for their own branches of Equestria’s military power. At the head of the table sat the currently Caption of the guard, Shining Armor. Besides the Princesses’ themselves, he was mostly in charge of these varying groups of ponies, even if his stake was mostly with the always active guard in Canterlot.
To his left sat the current overseer of the Solar Guard, Evening Harvest, who was a somewhat heavily built earth mare with pail mint green coat, and a maroon mane. She was one of the more recent successors to the solar guard, but well experience like the others. Her recognition as overseer of the Solar Guard only grew after the failed changeling invasion, holding some key positions.
Next was Star Watcher, another mare with a tan coat and mesh yellow-purple mane, responsible for overseeing the unicorn division of the EPU, better known as the Arcane’s. Despite her slightly portly body hidden by her robes, Star Watcher was the best in her field of offensive magic, opposed to Shining’s defensive magic.
Lastly was the leading Wonderbolt herself, Spitfire, currently dressed in her military blues. The yellow mare was making idle chatter with Star Watcher to pass the time as it were. She wasn't sure what to make of the short notice meeting that was called for, seeing it was about some new branch to help defend against changelings.
To Shining’s right was a thestral mare with a grey coat and red wings, shaking her head some and rubbing her eyes from the bright light. Moving some of her rusty red mane aside, she let out a small yawn at being woken up so early. Her name was Monsoon, the current overseer of the Lunar guard, and the pony who wanted to get the meeting over with so she could get some sleep.
Next to this mare was her older brother and also leading thestral pony to the Nighthunters, specialized group of thestrals for the equestrian forces. The stallion had a chalk-grey like coat, with dark blue wings and black mane. Much like his sister, he wanted to get back to sleep, but mostly due to the reasoning that he had another long training season to do with his troops.
The last pony was a grizzle old stallion in charge of the earth pony division of the EUP, or Valorvale’s. Out of all them, this forest green stallion with greying mane had the most experience, if not a bit stuck in older traditions and conduct. Most called him Brigadier Hill, mostly in regards to his what achievements he had done to receive such respect and rank.
It had already been close to a half hour since they were assembled and waiting for one more seat to be filled. While most chatted to pass time, others pondered who this new pony meeting up with them was, and if he or she was the new overseer to the rather sudden Shadow Guard. There was a collective agreement between most of them that they weren't sure what to make of this new devision or how it would benefit them. But if small rumors were to be believed, it was from the escape that had happened just five days back, and by a dangerous changeling no less.
Spitfire in particular had some good inkling what this all meant. She had asked her resident changeling on her team about what she read in the report partaking to ‘blood casters’ and their relevance. What she had received from her tactician was not what she expected, and in a way was unsure how to handle a changeling that could potentially take control of another's body.
Freaky is what it is. Was one thought Spitfire had come up with, wondering what sort of pain those guards had suffered while having their bodies moved against their wills like puppets. It made the Wonderbolt Caption want to shiver at the mere thought of it happening to her, or her team.
On the other side of the table and tapping his hoof with inpatients, Merge could not help but wonder what was taking this new pony so long. He had a schedule to keep, and he knew that if he did not get his rest, then training his troops will be like walking in tartarus. But in retrospect, most unexpected meetings always dragged on more longer than intended, so he was most likely doomed as soon as he was told of this meeting.
“Caption Armor.” Hill spoke from his seat, doing what he could to keep waiting for their guest, “What can you tell us about this new officer overseeing this…Shadow guard?” Hoping to get some more information to ready himself.
For a moment Shining Armor wondered how much information to give, partially unsure what to say about the new development until Masquerade got around. Choosing his words carefully, he said, “Well, what I can say is that he is a specialist in his field, and it is that reason he had been chosen to lead this new guard by the Princesses.”
Casting a look to her superior, Monsoon said, “So all we know is it’s a guy and he has the skill set for a newly made and still unidentified group in our ranks.” Then shook her head, sarcastically saying, “That’s a big help Armor.”
Rolling her eyes, Spitfire said, “Stop whining and act your rank Colonel. If you took a moment to think about this, you would know that whoever it is will have experience with changelings and how to deal with them.” But still wondered what pony could have such information, seeing as changelings were still new to them all.
“I find that hard to believe.” Star Watcher lightly scoffed at the suggestion, “Changelings are still new to us. I think the only ones that know about them in detail are the Princesses’, Celestia’s personal student, Shining Armor and maybe even Monsoon and her Lunar guard.” Casting a glance at the bat pony saying, “They’re bound to know something, as they seemed to always searching somepony’s home.”
With a long and drawn out sigh, Evening Harvest seemed to pled, “Star, please don't bring up your plight with the Lunar guard. It’s part of their job to do more undercover work. You know this!” Already anticipating some sort of verbal fight to break out.
“It is a necessary evil.” Hill seemed to nod, getting a couple of glares form the two thestrals next to him, “But I agree with Warrant Officer, Harvest. Now is not the time to discuss the morals or the Lunar guard’s workings.”
Even while watching this banter go on, Shining Armor had to wonder how long it would take for all the ponies to figure out who it was. Or more importantly, what their new cohort really was. Part of him wanted to give them warning in advance, but another part of him figured that Masquerade would want to keep things quiet until his arrival. Before he could come up with a final decision on the subject of warning the others, the door was knocked on.
All heads turned to the door, while Shining used his horn to unlock the door and undo some spells put in place, calling, “Enter.”
When the door opened, Shining could see the confusion and somewhat disappointment on his fellow officer’s faces. Entering in and closing the door behind himself was a single, thin, black unicorn stallion with a dark cloak with it's cowl down. All the ponies gave this single stallion with neon green eyes unsure looks, as if expecting something more.
“Thank you for arriving. We have been waiting on you.” Shining Armor said, gesturing with a hoof for the pony to take a seat.
Doing so, all watched as the pony sat down, appearing to be calm and collected, but his eyes darting about for a moment to look at each of them. Looking at the stallion a bit warily, Merge said, “What’s your name and rank?” Sending a small glance to Shining Armor saying, “Caption Armor didn’t inform us of who you were or much else for that matter.”
A grin soon grew on the stallions lips at that, and looked over to Shining and say, “You kept my identity secret?” Sounding more amused than anything else.
Weighing what he should say for a moment, Shining Armor eventually said, “I know how you like to keep secrets. I thought I could stay quite about you until you came.”
“How thoughtful of you.” The dark pony continued to grin, then looked among those around himself and introduced, “I am Master of both the Cloak arts, Infiltration, and apparently overseer to the Shadow guard, Masquerade.”
While most were trying to figure out what significants came from the information provided, Spitfire narrowed her eyes in familiarity. Masquerade…isn’t that the changeling Fleet Foot mentioned before? Doing her best to remember what her teammate told her. But one thing was for sure, their new cohort was a changeling, he had to be if she was remembering what her Teammate had said.
Thinking on it a bit longer, Spitfire said, “You’re the changeling from the Malek clan, right?” Garnering the attention of the others in the room, “The same one that warned us of the invasion before it was even sent, nearly a month in advance?”
Tilting his head, Masquerade asked, “Me?” Looking honestly confused, “I’m afraid you might have me mistaken for somepony else.”
Before Shining could think about saying anything, he saw that the infiltrator send him a quick glance, as if asking not to say anything. Reluctantly, the guard Caption stayed silent, not opening his mouth while Spitfire narrowed her eyes further.
Reaching up, Spitfire took her shades off and folded them, glaring at the stallion as if he was some hotshot recruit or brainless joker. “Yes, you. It would make sense really. You’re not part of any groups and you also aided Equestria. You know changelings better than any pony would, and would know what to look for.”
Even with the provided logic, the stallion just shrugged and said, “I’m part of the Lunar guard, under Luna’s authority. I’m responding to a letter she sent me, telling me to meet up with her and you lot on this new guard she wanted me to oversee.”
“Don’t give me that bull, Fleet Foot has provided the wonderbolt’s with very accurate information so far. In fact, I’m sure you’re not part of the Lunar guard.” Casting a look over to Monsoon, as if to conform.
The thestral mare looked up in thought, going through her mental list of ponies in the Lunar guard. This was easier said than done, as there were a few guard that had to keep their identities secret, so would go by false names. Though she could not recall anypony named Masquerade, she did recall that Princess Luna had made a special space for an unknown specialist, one she recently got the name to as Double Take.
Shaking her head, Monsoon said, “No, I don't recognize him as anypony part of my guard.” Seeming to confirm Spitfire’s thoughts.
Putting on a smile, Masquerade said, “But I am. I use the code name Double Take during my missions. But even then I try keeping that on the down-low. Luna eventually pestered me enough for it, so I gave it.”
“Oh, I see.” Monsoon said a bit stunned, then turned to look at Spitfire and say, “There is somepony named Double Take in the ranks, though I didn’t know much else beside that. Until now.”
Before Spitfire had more time to counter this, Masquerade said, “In all honesty, I was trying to work out some problems after a intense case. I’ve yet to get much rest and had no time to properly prep for this meeting. The reason I was not mentioned before hoof was that my identity had to be kept silent.”
Folding his hooves on the table, Masquerade asked Spitfire, “But if I was a changeling, would I need to hide my identity nearly as much? If I was a changeling, then I could always take on a new identity, no need for me to have my name hidden away like this.” Sounding irritated in the end as if tiered by it all.
Blinking at the sight before him, Shining Armor got a front row seat to Masquerade’s acting, not able to get a lie out of the stallion. So far, all that were told were half-truths, or what he supposed where half-truths, but it was hard to tell with how well Mask concealed his tells. If I didn't know better, I’d say he was completely pony. Just like when I first met him… It still freaked the Caption how well the changeling heir could hide himself. Made him realize how needed the Shadow guard would be in the future.
“There’s one way to be sure Spitfire is correct in her assumption that you’re a changeling.” Star Watcher chimed in, lighting her horn, “A focused beam of magic should strip away your disguise if you were one. From what I understand, changeling disguises can’t really fool our spells, such as Caption Armors shield.”
Unless they are able to achieve stage-4 transformation, Shining Armor thought to himself, watching as Masquerade shrugged as if he didn't mind. It was with that thought that Shining realized further that Masquerade had little to worry about with Star Watcher’s idea. A scanning spell might tip him off a little, but I doubt a strong magic pulse would!
All watched with anticipation as Star Watcher made her way out of her seat and around to a calmly sitting Masquerade, who didn't look at all concerned. Lighting her horn a brighter orange, Star shot a beam of her magic at the pony, dragging it down from head to hoof.
all the while, Masquerade shivered and shook at the feeling of magic trying to disrupt his disguise, but failing due to his advance transformation, and his heir heritage. When finished, Masquerade shook his body, saying, “Thaaat felt wired.” Reminding him of the time he walked through Shining Armor’s personal shielding spell to keep his kind out.
With a pleased nod, Star Watcher assured, “See, completely pony. You were probably thinking of somepony else Spitfire.” Satisfied with her evidence and made her way back to her seat.
Looking about, the others seemed to get into agreement with the magical user, who was one of the strongest magic users they knew. Spitfire however seemed displeased, glaring at Masquerade with suspicion still, unwilling to discredit her teammates information just yet.
After shaking off the strange feeling of the magic used on him, Masquerade looked over to Shining Armor, putting on a grin as he said, “Do you want to tell them, or should I?” Making most in the room look on in confusion.
Also confused, Shining asked, “I could, but what would be the point of what you just did?” A little lost why infiltrator would put up the act and prove he wasn't a changeling, just to suddenly decide to show he was changeling.
Looking at amongst the gathered ponies, Masquerade’s grin grew and said simply, “I wanted to see how far they were willing to go to prove I wasn't a changeling, or in this case, trust one of their own in accusing a stranger being a spy.” Sending a knowing cheshire cat grin over to the pegasus mare. “I also wanted to have a little fun with playing with their heads.”
“To what end?” Brigadier Hill questioned, “I have it in good grace to know that Star Watcher does not make mistakes in her magic. If you were a changeling, you would have been reviled and taken down with little trouble.” Knowing with the number of officers in the room, one changeling wouldn’t be much trouble for them to overcome. “After all, your locked in a room with all of us.”
The grin never left Masquerade’s face, as he said, “Oh no, I’m not locked in here with you. You’re stuck in here with me. Shining Armor can attest to what I can do.” Watching as the Star Watcher roll her eyes in disbelief.
Sighing at the apparent game the infiltrator was playing with his fellow officers, Shining Armor nodded, “He’s right. Spitfire was also correct that he’s a changeling.” Gaining disbelieving looks form those around himself.
“T-that can’t be. My spell should have been more than strong enough to get rid of any changeling disguise!” Star Watcher denied, going through her thoughts over her research over changelings so far. She even went as for as to asked a few of those bug-ponies flying about Canterlot to test the spell on, so she was understandably confused.
Masquerade’s grin quickly turned into a smirk, as he simply said, “If I wasn’t a stage-4 changeling, that might have been true.” Letting a quick burst of green fire go over his body, surprising those closest to him. When cleared, a more taller changeling looked at each pony, showing his long fangs with another grin, “But being an infiltrate means I am required to have a stage-4 transformation to avoid detection.”
Feeling the tension in the room rise drastically at his little show, Masquerade quickly schooled his features and stated, “This is why I am here. As Spitfire has said, My changeling heritage and familiarity with my own people will make my efforts to safeguard from them even more effective.” While scanning the room for any sudden movements, or prepping spells.
Somewhat gripping the table tightly with a hoof, Evening Harvest had to keep herself from acting out at the sight of the changeling. She was more than surprised at how well he played them, and had to ask, “And what do you plan to do?” Holding back the urge to flinch at the green cat-eyes locking on with her own.
Swallowing her own nervousness, Evening continued to say. “I know you apparently have this Shadow guard to back you up, but what do you intend to do with it?” Now suspicious of the changelings motives or the reasoning behind the Princesses’ letting one have control of their own guard. Part of her wondered if another invasion was already under way without their notice.
Looking about those in the room, Masquerade grinned, “Anypony want to take a guess?” Making a few irritated at how he was seemingly making a game out if their meeting.
Knowing that the changeling heir was shortening the fuses in the room, Shining Armor quickly said, “Masquerade’s group is not going to be like the rest of us.” Getting all heads to turn to him, “Their task is to seek out information, sabotage enemy efforts and maybe search out hostile agents in our own ranks.” Giving a look over to the changeling, as if to stop playing around.
Sighing at the look he was receiving, Masquerade went back into unicorn disguise and said, “Yes, that’s why I’m here. To organize a group of changelings to act as undercover agents.” Sending a slightly annoyed glance over to Shining Armor for running his fun.
“Great.” Star Watcher said unenthusiastically while keeping a closer eye on the dark stallion, “More ponies to break in to our homes in secret.”
Rolling his eyes, Masquerade said, “I’ll have you know we will not be breaking into homes!” Sounded slightly offended, but also drawing curious looks. With a smile, the false pony said, “It’s too sloppy and noticeable. Would be better that they are invited right in. Could investigate with less hassle and suspicion.”
While most were put off by that comment, Merge and Monsoon both looked thoughtful, agreeing that would be preferred to some degree. It was Merge who asked his younger sister, “Why don’t we do that more often?” Wondering how they never tried such a simple idea.
Shaking her head, Monsoon replied, “For one, thestrals in general stick out too much, since we’re mostly seen in the guard. And two, not enough of us can keep a false identity good enough to fool better informed groups.” Sounding a little frustrated at the fact.
Grinning at hearing this, Masquerade said, “Well, looks like you don't have to worry about that for too long. Once we get things set up, you’ll be able to collect information more easily, and enter places with less trouble.”
“We?” The Brigadier questioned with a raised brow, “Are you suggesting to have those of your Shadow guard work with our own devisions?” Sounding displeased with the concept of changelings anywhere ear his troops.
Giving the older stallion a serous look, Masquerade nodded, “That’s exactly what I’m saying. Equestria has plenty of force, but no means to watch for sneak attacks. What I plan to do is plant my own agents into each of your own ranks, keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.”
“I also want to work with each group too.” Masquerade added, “The Shadow guard will be perfect for insertion based operations, where your own people would have difficulty getting in. Even the changeling drones can do this to some extent, given the right cover and script. Something like a colt or filly… maybe a dog or cat, too…”
Murmurs were past around form this idea, with some like Star Watcher and Brigadier Hill having misgivings with the idea. Monsoon, Merge on the other hoof, had some interest in this, seeing as they had reports form the few Lunar guard that got to work with a few changelings. To say, they were both impressed and scared of their abilities, but mostly intrigued at the advantages that came with a changeling in a squad.
Evening Harvest looked conflicted out of those now talking about this suggestion and knowing where she stood. She knew the outright danger letting such… ponies into her guard, after fighting a swarm of them. The only problem was she also knew the good they could do, as a few changelings part of the Lue had ratted out some changeling that got past her defensive line.
During all of this, Masquerade continued to grin, but hide that he was keenly observing all the ponies in the room. If it was one thing he knew about ponies, it was that they wore their emotions on them like clothing. He could tell whom was uncomfortable, reluctant, excited or even passive about the idea.
It was obvious that the thestrals were interested in the idea, no doubt partly due to them understanding a bit about undercover work. He could figure from Monsoon’s feelings that she liked the idea of having another option to get information and then send in her more highly trained guard to finish a mission hard and fast. To Masquerade’s slight surprise, even Spitfire held some interest in his proposal, if not slightly suspicious of himself.
Star Watcher and Brigadier Hill didn't seem nearly as keen to let in any ‘spooks’ as it were, near their own. No doubt in the changeling’s mind that they still distrusted anything with a black shell and bug-like appearance. Evening Harvest was mostly conflicted, something he could use to help tip the scales if things were presented just right. After all, ponies were fairly subject to a herd mentality.