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// Position of Things 
// Story: Unforgotten 
// by Riddle-Me-Think 
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I do not own My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic





The situation that had been made between both alicorns and changelings had been an unexpected turn of events to the ponies that made up the Solar guard. Rumors and some gossip were passed between those off duty in and around the barracks about the new guard being made. The biggest topic was that this new guard was going to made due to the changeling attack inside castle grounds.

While the changeling attack was a concern and eye raiser in it’s own right, the news that a group of changelings being brought in rose even more. None of the Solar guard were that keen on letting the bug-ponies near the castle, something they had done since the Lue clan changelings had settled in due to how the invasion played out.

So it could be understandable that they would react somewhat coldly to the sudden arrival of changelings being brought in just days later, and expected to stay. As of yet, those same changeling had stuck to staying in the royal garden’s— though most that didn’t know this often would pass the hiding changelings up.

This was part of the reason Twilight was in the gardens with Cadence. Trying to locate the changelings and see if she could get them to make friendly terms with the guard. She had yet to really find them, so it was becoming a challenge. In the meantime though, Cadence was trying to help straighten out some things between Twilight and her own changeling.

“So what would you say bothered you the most about what he did?” Cadence asked, wanting to get a better grasp of the situation, “I understand that you didn't like how Mask approached the situation, but what made it so harmful to you?”

Twilight partially didn't want to talk about her small troubles and brief argument with her coltfriend. In a sense it was silly for her to be bothered by it, and both she and Mask had to just work it out. But Cadence has experience in this… should I just let her help?

figuring that her mind was right in that respect, Twilight told her sister-in-law, “I…I guess part of me is not sure how to take it.” Looking a bit unease by talking about it, “I suppose I’m not sure how to handle his more forceful nature at times. He means well, and is always trying to protect me. But sometimes he gets so…stoic at times, it makes me nervous…”

Smiling, Cadence admitted, “He is hard to peg down, looking so cheerful and friendly one moment, but becoming silent and mysterious the next, making you wonder if he’s even still there.” Recalling more than one time the black stallion would seemingly vanish next to them.

As if reading the alicorns mind, Twilight rolled her eyes and said, “Don’t get me started on his vanishing acts.” Shaking her head as she continued to say, “Just up and runs off at the time nopony’s looking. Makes me wonder how adapt he is at his illusionary magic.” Having a feeling the stallion used a spell similar to his silence bubble to make some escapes.

Deciding to banish those thoughts from her head, Twilight said, “Sometimes I just don't understand him. Maybe it’s him being a changeling, or my lack of understanding how relationships really work. I know he means well, but some times… Sometimes I can feel intimidated by him.”

Softly smiling, Cadence agreed, “I know what you mean.” Getting a surprised look from the younger mare, Cadence told her, “Your brother can have the same effect on me at times. I might be a Princess, but I can’t help but get scared of what he might think of me or intimated by some things he can do.” Turning to Twilight, Cadence asked, “But do you know why I rarely am?”

Twilight shook her head, still trying to wrap her mind around Cadence, her old foalsitter and a Alicorn Princess, being scared of her own brother. “N-no…I mean… I can’t Imagine you being scared of him in the first place. Shining has always been…”

“A gentlecolt, kind husband, passionate lover?” Cadence suggested, making Twilight blush at the last choice. Giggling a little, Cadence said, “I trust him. I am reminded that he would never intentionally hurt me.” Raising her left foreleg, were the golden bonding-gem still rested.

Making sure Twilight was taking in the sight of the glowing gem, Cadence told her, “I always felt the love your brother has for me, but when I have this on me…It’s almost like he’s right next to me at times. It’s like an unspoken word, that you know he’s going to be there to be your knight in shining armor.”

This elected a little laughter from Twilight, whom soon noticed her sister-in-laws curious look, to which the lavender mare explained, “Sorry, Mask just likes to think he’s my knight in black, tarnished armor.” Giggling a bit at it.

Rolling her eyes, Cadence admitted, “It does seem to fit his description better than a my own knight in armor.” She soon sobered up and asked, “But what I am trying to ask Twilight, is what made you actually angry about what Mask did yesterday?”

Going silent, Twilight thought over why she was angry by what her coltfriend did. True to her earlier words, she didn't feel like it was right for the stallion to put her under a spell, even if it was for her benefit.

It’s not like he was going to do anything to me like I was trapped by those scouts, or like that changeling did to those mares. Twilight thought, feeling a shiver run along her spine. The thought of being helpless and trapped in a small space, while another being took on her form and tricked her friends— taking advantage of her life, her own feelings…

It seemed to hit Twilight at that point, and said a bit quietly, “I…I think it just brought up a bad memoirs.” Not feeling comfortable talking about the subject.

Seeming to sense this discomfort, Cadence made sure to tread carefully as she asked, “Then perhaps when you talk to Mask, you can tell him that.” Moving closer to the younger mare to put a wing over her and say, “Part of fixing any gaps in a relationship is by communication. If you can’t tell him how you feel about something, it might just come back and make things worse.”

Nodding, Twilight said, “He-he knows… I sometimes think it’s part of the reason he’s so protective of me.” Turning to Cadence and smiling, “I think I’ll tell him though. Thanks Cadence.”

“Anything for my favorite sister-in-law.” Cadence smiled back, hugging the lavender unicorn. Letting go after a few moments, Cadence looked around and said, “Now, to find those changelings and get them out of hiding…”

Sighing and looking around, Twilight said, “This would be so much easier if we had another changeling here.” Not looking forwards to searching out the hidden changelings.

Laughing at the thought, Cadence said, “I’m sure they’re just resting. If it’s one thing I’ve learned from these changelings, it’s that they love sleeping in trees.” Getting Twilight’s attention, “In fact, I think Opulent is the only one who hasn't been able to send for any of her changelings yet. So we have less trees to search.”

Motioning for the young mare to follow her, Cadence continued to say, “But I’m sure Ventral or Iota could help us too if we asked. Since the other changelings had been coming here, they’ve been hiding out in the room we gave them to get away from them all. I think it would be good to introduce them now, rather than later.”

Smiling, Twilight agreed, “Sound like a better plan then just aimlessly looking around for the changelings.” Looking about the gardens saying, “Though, I’m a little confused why they’re hiding here in the gardens in the first place…” Taking a quick glance to a tree, thinking she had spotted something for a second.

Considering it for a moment, Cadence shrugged, “I don't know… Maybe their just a little nervous about this? It is rather sudden.”

Thinking for a moment, Twilight said, “Maybe… The Lue clan are mostly inventors and spell crafters. While the Gem clan is filled with traders and busnessponies…” When putting those facts together, it was possible that they wouldn't feel comfortable near the guard that didn't fully trust them.

Sighing some, Cadence shook her head with a small laugh, “I can’t wait for the day when I can understand changelings.” Thinking about all the little differences they had opposed to many other races.

“You and me both, Cadence.” Twilight nodded in agreement, while scanning the trees, hoping to spot any of the hidden or napping changelings.





For nearly an hour, the six leading officers of each group talked amongst themselves, going back and forth about what had been touched on. Masquerade sat quietly, intently watching them go back and forth with each pro and con over his thoughts on how he was going to use the shadow guard. Most of those pro’s and con’s were over changeling nature itself and what they knew.

Monsoon, Merge and Spitfire had mostly been on the defense, mentioning the benefits over the new changeling group. The ability to sneak into difficult situations, able to readapt their bodies to new situations and even their unique skill sets were mentioned. Their were also their tactics, knowledge and ability to use emotions as a means to keep going at all times were also a boon.

Brigadier Hill and Star Watcher were the most opposed to the ideas hoofed over to them. They mentioned the cons, such as potential betrayal, loyalties to their clans and not the Princesses’, ability to replace their troops without notice. There was also the point that certain secrets wanted to be kept, or the point that changeling could be wild cards with their still unknown changeling magic.

Evening Harvest had been mostly neutral during the whole conversation, able to agree with both sides to some level, but unwilling to take a side. Despite her position, Evening was still unsure her place between the other officers, and in a way, nervous on following certain ones at times. In this case, she didn't have anything to trust the changeling with, but also could not fault them all, since they did help.

Shining Armor’s position was to be neutral, letting those under his command duke it out in a battle of words until he felt the need to step in. Though he had the full authority to decide what to do in the interest to the crown, he always felt better if those under his command would work things out. Though with this new change, the Caption could understand why his fellow officers were divided.

Looking a crossed the round table, Shining Armor could see Masquerade watch all those in the room, following each word with keen eyes and interest. If Shining was willing to admit it to himself, he would say that it was concerning. The folded hooves and ever calculative look in the black pony’s eyes— it gave the unicorn guard Caption the feeling that the changeling was planning something.

That actually wouldn't surprise me. Shining thought to himself, holding back a snort, He’s proven to be smarter than he acts. Behind that witty clown is a dangerous infiltration specialist that can plan and act his way into desirable situations.

Shining Armor continued to just watch Masquerade, wondering what the changeling rouge was thinking. When their eyes met though, Mask gave a cheery smile and a knowing glance over to Evening Harvest, as if conveying his plans. Looking to his left, Shining took a moment to think of why Masquerade would look at the mare. After all, she was neutral on the subject.

For now. Shining thought while looking back to Masquerade. He must be planing to convince her to become a supporter… and help pressuring the last two to fold and accept the situation by majority opinion. Though Shining doubted the unicorn mage and veteran soldier would cave on the subject any time soon, they still suffered from following the herd.

With a sigh, Shining groaned in thought, Mask knows how to play politics too, doesn't he? wondering what sort of trouble he could get form his new ‘subordinate’. The idea of having the unpredictable stallion under his command actually made Shining want to groan even more, knowing that he would have to work with a pony that loved to play mind games. On him no less.

Shaking his head and removing those thoughts, Shining refocused on the conversation at hoof. At this time, it was Star Watch on the attack, saying, “Need I remind you all of how Equestrian military functions. With order and justice. It is an image we must maintain, and it is something that can become tarnished in the eyes of the public. We can look at how this new shadow guard can help us, but it also can hinder us with working around our own people and their trust.”

With a hoof to her head, Spitfire pointed out, “Getting trust from the civvies is nice, but you have to remember Star Watcher. We. Are. Military. No offense to your family, but we don't work things out with political talks like the nobility you grew up with. Our job is to always keep them safe, not to always keep them please.”

“But she does present a good point.” Brigadier Hill said to all those at the table, “As much as I would not like to admit it, the public opinion can both aid and hamper us. If we do show any sign of approval to letting changeling into our ranks, then we might get less recruits.” Not looking happy at the idea.

Merge however, thought of something different, saying to the others, “Getting recruits isn't the problem, we’re swimming in them at the moment since the changeling invasion. What about losing them, or having a few getting out of line?” Making the other stop to think for a moment.

Stopping all thoughts to focus on that, Masquerade said, “You brought up a very good point…” Catching most there off guard, since he had all but stopped talking nearly an hour back. Not waiting for any to reply, the infiltrator continued, “Mentioning about the shadow guard being a changeling made group might actually make things worse with some of those that had just started to become troops or guards…”

Raising a brow, Star Watcher asked, “What are you saying?” Tiling her head to the side, “Are you planing to retract what you suggested?” Hoping some that the changeling would.

With a smirk, Masquerade said, “Not at all…” Leaning back some while saying out loud in thought, “But it did give me a thought that might help us compromise here.”

“Compromise?” Monsoon asked, fixing her rusty red wings some, “What would that be…Masque, right?”

Chuckling some, the stallion corrected, “Masquerade. And what I am going to suggest is this.” Leaning a bit forwards and folding his hooves some saying, “Instead of me just planing agents, why not we…” Raising a hoof and using a rolling motion to forestall any words before saying, “Promote some of your guards and soldiers to be part-time agents of the shadow guard.”

Narrowing his eyes, Hill asked, “An interesting idea, but I have to wonder what your angle in all of this is?” Not convinced that the changeling was just trying to please him and Star Watcher.

Grinning at the older pony’s perception, Mask said, “To put it simply, the shadow guard is going to be collecting information. And it would be highly suspicious for it to be out in the open, and made up of only one group type.” Still grinning a rather devious smile.

“Not that I don't mind the mysterious act.” Spitfire jumped in, “But why don't you stop talking in riddles and just be frank with us. You are going to be working along side each of us after all, so stop beating around the bush and get to the point.”

Sighing and rolling his eyes, Mask muttered something about it not being as fun before saying, “Fine. To be frank, we can’t just make this guard too public without being compromised. Back stories are needed, alibis made and even evidence that would misdirect those that try to undermine us by spying.”

Sparing a look over each pony, Masquerade said, “Changelings can change form. Become somepony else at any time. But they can’t be as effective if they are easily identified by being put in one group.”

Quickly getting at what Masquerade was trying to say, Merge said, “You want us to promote some of our subordinates into the shadow guard, but as a front to hide the real agents that are in really part of it?” Trying to peace together how it would work.

Smiling, Masquerade said, “The shadow guard will be known. Luna made that rather clear. But she has not really announced it yet, but some of the guard already are talking about it, so it’s a open secret.” Still looking about with a mischievous smile, he said, “If we play things right, the shadow guard will be an attempt to integrate all guards into one group, to fight off the changeling threat. Or, that’s what it is officially.”

“And what is it unofficially?” Evening harvest asked.

“What I said an hour back.” Masquerade told the mare simply, “An information network. Only now, I can give my agents alibis by using identities used by your own subordinates. Or better yet, make my agents their shadows or something. We have a number of options open to us if we include a few others into this secret. The changelings in this guard would be on the down low, while the ponies gain the credit.”

With a suspicious look, the brigadier had to ask, “Do you even know what your doing?” Having a hard time figuring out what the apparently young changeling was thinking.

Giving his signature knowing grin that was starting to irritate some in the room, Masquerade said, “Ask me no questions, and I shall tell no lies.” Chucking on the inside at the confusion each pony felt.

Feeling the need to spare his fellow ponies, Shining Armor told his fellow officers, “I think what Masquerade is trying to convey.” Casting a slight glare over to the affirmed changeling that was still grinning, “Is that he wants our approval on the matter. He may act like a clown, but he is fully aware of your feelings on the matter.”

Trying to seem respectful, Star Watcher said, “If that is so, then please tell us Caption Armor, why does this…pretender, not tell us this in our faces?” Turning a scornful glance to the black unicorn pony that was Masquerade.

Looking to Masquerade as well, Shining asked, “Do you want to explain this to my cohorts?” Wanting to see if the changeling was willing to explain his actions some. He himself wanted to know why the changeling was purposely pushing every button each officer had, and in turn, annoy them.

Thinking for a moment and looking like he was playing with the idea some, Masquerade shrugged and nodded, “Sure.” Turning from playful to serous when looking at each pony and saying, “It’s because I only trusted one pony in this room when I entered.” And scanned over each one in the room.

After looking over them all, he said, “I can safely say I trust more than one, but will not disclose whom they are, or how many. My work will be partaking to searching through your trash, knowing where it all came from and how it got there.” Making a point to my eye-to-eye contact with each officer, “Most of you will maybe hate or despise me for looking into your personal lives, but that will be my job. To search out every secret, every lie, and check every closet for any skeletons hiding in them.”

Though they remained still, Masquerade picked out the small ticks in their body language as he spoke. Ears shifted ever so slightly. Eye’s reflexively narrowed the smallest bit. Edges of their lips would pull down before coming back up to hid their frowns. Emotions flared in distrust or surprise at each word.

Sitting a bit more higher, Masquerade said, “It is this reason, that I don't fully trust you all. I know that some of you dislike those that sneak around and eavesdrop on others. This goes even further, knowing that some of you don't trust changelings in the least.”

Easing up his near-glaring-stare, Masquerade softly said, “Though understandable, you also need to understand, it will be my job to watch your every movement. Because if I don’t, then who is going to catch the traitor before it’s too late?”

None seemed to meet the heirs green eyes, as they continued to seek out any that would bother looking back. Though each pony would say that they have accomplished themselves in their own time, they had a hard time facing the cold gaze of the infiltrator.

Steeling herself, Spitfire looked back at the changeling, meeting his icy gaze with her own fiery determination. For a moment, the Wonderbolt’s caption choked at the sight of the two cold eyes that seemed to scream ‘predator’ or ‘killer’ in her mind. Pushing those aside, the pegasus kept her eyes firmly on the stallion and said, “So, what you’re trying to say is that you’ll help us, if we are willing to let you. And even if we don't let you, you’re still going to be watching us from some dark corner, waiting for us to make the wrong move?” Feeling her body tense at the rather intense gaze she was locked in.

The room remained silent as they watched the two stare the other down in what seemed to be a battle of wills. But when Masquerade grinned, the tenseness of the situation passed, as he said, “Boiling it all down…yes.” Easing up his oppressive nature on the mare and giving a nod.

Breathing a bit more deeply, Spitfire had a strange sense she had passed some unspoken test or challenge by the changeling. And if she was truthful, she wasn't sure how to feel about it. Spooks weren't really the type she liked mixing with, even if she saw the good reason behind having them. Huffing slightly, Spitfire resolved to ask Fleet Foot more about changelings when she got back.

Looking about the room from where he sat, Shining Armor could literally feel the wary and uncertain feelings of those around him. It was thick enough that he was wondering if he was changeling for a moment. Clearing his throat, the Caption said, “I think that should be enough for now. Let’s take a short break to think over this before continuing.”

Star Watcher was the first to agree, saying, “Good idea Caption Armor. There are some other matters I need to attend to.” Rising form her seat.

Quickly following the mare’s example, Merge and Monsoon both nodded, with the brother telling the others, “I don't know about my sis, but I need to get some more sleep. I have some training drills to run on my troops later tonight.” Holding back the urge to yawn in-front of the other officers.

While Shining watched each of the ponies leave out the door, he took notice that out of them all, only Spitfire remained, keeping a hawklike stare on the retreating changeling. Just before the mentioned changeling left, Mask turned his head around to look at Spitfire and give an easy smile before leaving.

With a slight huff, Spitfire turned her attention to Shining Armor, and saying, “Permission to speak freely?” While glancing at the open door.

Getting the message, the guard Caption closed the door before folding his hooves on the table and nodding to the mare, “Granted.” Having his ears open to what the Wonderbolts leader wanted to say.

Taking a moment to take stock of her thoughts, Spitfire asked, “Are you sure it’s a good idea to keep that guy around?” Casting another glance at the closed door saying, “Because I think I speak for all of us when I say that we could have a better choice.”

Lifting a brow at this, Shining asked, “From where I was sitting, it looked like you were all for the Shadow guard being made?” Trying to discern what the pegasus was implying.

With a shake of her head, Spitfire said, “The Shadow guard and it’s changeling makeup I can deal with. What I’m more worried about is this Masquerade. If I’m right, I know who he is, but the way he acts is putting me off. Is he really the best choice to oversee this new guard?”

Giving a slightly tired sigh, Shining Armor agreed, “Masquerade’s not one for rules, and he does not have an official rank. I can really understand your view in this.” Then steeled his voice saying, “But it was the Princesses' that felt it was best he would take up this position. And I would have to agree with them to some extent, as he is what the shadow guard needs.”

Spitfire went quiet, thinking things over in her mind, while Shining Armor said, “I know you have a some doubts Masquerade’s credibility, and I’m sure the others feel the same. Which is why I might consider something to help you get a good idea who we are letting in.”

Lifting her head at this, Spitfire listened in closely as Shining told her, “The shadow guard wont be up and running for a few months at the very least. Enough time for you and the others to test Masquerade in a few tests, controlled or during a actuarial mission.”

“With all due respect, Caption Armor.” Spitfire was quick to interject, “But are you actually suggesting for me, and the others, to allow an unknown in helping in some of our missions, without us knowing what he can do?” The idea in itself was risky, and in the mares opinion, downright stupid thing to do.

Despite the interruption, Shining Armor said calmly, “It wont be much different down the line if you all accept Masquerade as a… ‘fellow officer’ overseeing his own branch. After all, he plans to have near unknown agents amongst our own ranks, at random times, knowing him.”

Having a suspicious look on her features, Spitfire said, “It almost sounds like you’re putting up the possibility of Masquerade failing any test me and the others might give him?” Trying to figure out what the guard Caption was getting at.

Giving a slightly helpless shrug, Shining Armor told the pegasus, “He’s unpredictable. There’s a chance he’ll fail one of your tests because he’s hiding his potential or might not trust you enough. It’s what he does.”

With another sigh, Spitfire admitted to herself that the only reliable information she could get, was from Fleet Foot. If she could get some information form the changeling-wonderbolt, then she could come to a more solid decision. In the mean time, the leading wonderbolt lifted her eyes back up and told her superior, “I’ll think about it. As much as the shadow guard could help, I still don't know what to make of that changeling.”

Thinking over the guard Caption’s idea a bit longer, Spitfire nodded, “If we go on with this, than I want to put this new guy through every hurdle I can. Wonderbolt or not, we only let the best of the best get a seat here at this table.” Rapping her hoof on the round table they both sat at for emphasis.

With a smile, Shining Armor said, “Good to hear that I have your support.” Rising from his seat and heading for the now opening door saying, “I don't know about you, but I want to try and meet up with my Wife. Chances are, my sister will be with her visiting.”





Outside the same room Shining Armor and Spitfire were in, Masquerade waited patiently for the two to come out. He was originally going to follow the good guradspony about and have some heart-to-heart time with the brother to his beloved, but plans changed. Mainly with the pegasus known as Spitfire.

He wasn't sure where to place her in his mind, but Masquerade felt it safe to say he could at the very least respect the mare. If not from Fleeting’s own respect to the pony, than how she was willing to stare him down so fiercely. Now with her having a ‘private’ chat with Shining Armor, it made the infiltrator curious.

I’m sure there is some rule against stalking other ponies here, but my future job will require me to do so. Somehow, that made the stallion grin. The idea of him overseeing a new guard under Luna’s authority sounded intimidating some— if not for those he would be required to lead, but the responsibility of being in such a position.

Mask knew he had a lot of work to do if he was to fulfill the role Luna expected him to meet. And it was not just for Equestria, but perhaps changeling kind, as there would be a few harmful clans that would be opposed to such open unity. Putting a hoof to his face and sliding it down, he thought, hopefully I can arrange for some way to keep my self secret, with those changeling under my command, and be around Twinkles for her protection. What a juggling act this will be.

Letting out a somewhat somber sigh, Masquerade realized that most of his free time was doomed to be taken away and killed by potential boredom of work. Even if the work is at least a little exciting, he would be spending less time with his favorite lavender pony.

Rolling his eyes at the thought, Masquerade thought, Note to self: make sure to be part of some assignments and missions. I will not be bogged down by paper work at some desk.

Hearing a soft click of an opening door, Masquerade was quick to put up the cowl of his cloak and activated his magic. With the most briefest of flashes, the dark unicorn vanished from sight, while Spitfire and Shining left the room and parted ways.

While the white unicorn headed down the halls for some time to talk with his sister, Spitfire fixed the shades on her nose and made her way towards the barracks, intent on getting something to eat.

Spitfire made her way throughout the halls that made up most of the castle, passing up both servants and some saluting guards. Each guard she had passed, the wonderbolt would return with a curt nod of acknowledgment, not sparring much else as she was feeling more than hungry at the time.

Just when the barracks came within sight, Spitfire found herself being stopped by Brigadier Hill, whom seemed to have been waiting for her. Holding back a sigh, she gave a crisp salute for a moment saying, “Excuse me Brigadier, but I’m rather famished at the moment. Can whatever you have to say to me wait?”

Examining the younger pony for a moment, Brigadier Hill said, “It will only take a moment Caption Spitfire.” Standing tall before the pegasus, “I wanted to know why you are supporting this whole idea over the Shadow guard, or the entertaining the prospect of this new… pony overseeing it?”

Outwardly sighing at this, Spitfire told the old stallion, “As much as you may not like it Sir, times are changing. I don't like it much, but we could use a group like the Shadow guard to help give us a edge against changelings in general.” Darting her eyes about for a moment, the yellow mare soon added, “As for the new pony, I don’t have a solid opinion on him yet. I want to know more before I do make one.”

With a tilt of his head, Brigadier Hill said, “Then would you consider the idea of somepony else to help oversee this new group?” Making sure not to be too loud with his voice when a few guards passed by. “After all, the Princesses' and Caption Armor may approve, but as far as I am concerned, we need fully confirmed ponies behind such…shady elements under our jurisdiction.”

“I have the same concerns you do, Brigadier.” Spitfire nodded quickly, “But I already had a small chat with Armor. He told me some ideas for us to consider next meeting.” Moving around Brigadier Hill, Spitfire said, “Now, if you don't mind Sir, I would like to get something to eat form the mess hall.”

Moving back some, the old stallion let the pegasus mare pass by. Hill watched the wonderbolt Caption for a moment before snorting and wandering off, wondering what the pegasus knew about the next meeting to come.

Spitfire herself sighed to herself at finally reaching the mess hall that was inside the barracks. She had skipped out on food when the message for her presents was sent, and it had left her hungry. Going to the stacks of trays, Spitfire took off the top one and slid it down.

With quick practice, Spitfire took up each dish she found approvable to her needs and tastes, not stopping to linger on any deserts near the end. Tray fully, she carefully balanced in on her back, using her wings for extra balance while moving it to a nearby table.

When it had finally touched down on the wooden top, Spitfire was more than happy to finally take a seat and dig in to the food in front of her. The first thing to be devoured was the black beans, still warm even after taken from the pot they were scooped from.

Hearing the clank of another tray, Spitfire looked up to see another guardpony taking a seat a crossed from herself, and nearly ignoring her. Shrug this fact away, Spitfire instead focused her gaze on the try that had mostly assorted fruits and some veggies.

Deciding not to make any comment on the mare’s choice of food, Spitfire continued eating her own food in some relative peace. While she did, she reflected over the meeting and how it had played out. Mostly over what she and Armor had talked over.

Taking another helping of food, the leading wonder bolt thought, Masquerade’s a wild card at the moment. Before I try putting him in any test, I need to know more about him. Armor wont tell us much, but I’m sure Fleet Foot will. Then felt self-satisfied at her reasoning.





Groaning and slouching in her seat, Twilight leaned back as she relaxed after hours of working with the changelings. It had turned out that, even with her experience with the changelings of Ponyville, it didn't apply to them all. Those of the Lue and Gem clan’s didn't seem to listen to her or Cadence much, and wanted to ‘stay out of the ponies territory’, being the barracks.

It was only by a little threatening on her part —that Ventral suggested— that some were willing to listen to her. Apparently, the aggressive or bossy nature changeling’s heirs had was to get their subordinates to do things. Or, that was what Ventral had explained, saying that changelings showing some level of aggression and show some form of dominance could get others to follow them.

Putting a hoof to her head, Twilight thought, I was hoping that just talking to them would work. Apparently, I was wrong to assume that. Shaking her head some thinking, at least the changelings in Ponyville are willing to listen to me when I ask them politely. I wish the ones here were as courteous.

Hearing some giggling, Twilight lifted her head to see Cadence’s amused smile, as she asked, “It feel’s like it’s been a long day, hasn’t it?” Casting a glance over to her back, where the other changeling scout, Iota, had made herself comfortable by draping her body over the princess while napping.

Smiling at the sight, Twilight agreed, “It’s only been a few hours, but it does feel like it’s been a long day.” And laid her head down on her hooves.

Lounging on a few pillows, Ventral snorted and said, “Try scouting the outer edges of a clan territory, or being left on guard duty. Now that’s tiring.” Then glanced over to where her clan sister was sleeping and shook her head.

Looking a bit more amused, Cadence said, “I remember Shinny would complain about guard duty now and then too. Especially when he had to keep a straight face, even when ponies would stop and make faces in front of him.” Laughing at the memory some.

Smiling some, Ventral said, “That actually sounds a bit fun…think I’d get in trouble for doing that?” Feeling tempted to try.

Giggling into her slippered hoof, Cadence said, “I’d say, go for it. If anything, it’s the guard that will get in trouble for ‘losing focus’ from ‘little distractions’.”

Smiling from her spot, Twilight said, “Make sure my coltfriend doesn’t hear you say that. I can see him making all sorts of trouble if encouraged to.”

“Oh Celestia no!” Shinning Armor loudly said as he entered the room, surprising the mares some, and making Iota slightly snort in her sleep. Ignoring some of this, Shining continued, “It’s going to be a challenge working next to that stallion as it is. Twily, Caddy, please promise me you wont tell him to do that to my guard!”

Casting a look between the other, both sister’s-in-law nodded, with Cadence saying, “We’ll be sure to be carful.” Then eyed her husband adding, “Masquerade didn’t give you and your little play group too much trouble, did he?”

Rolling his eyes, Shining walked over to his sister first, giving a quick hug to the lavender mare before taking a seat on a pillow saying, “A little. I know it’s going to be his job to psych us out and see if any of us are replaced by changelings, but I almost am worried that he’ll annoy the others out of their minds.”

Shaking her head, Twilight told her brother, “He’s a hoof full, I can tell you that much. But I’m sure he’ll know when to back off. Mask usually knows when it’s a good time to stop playing around.”

Letting out a sigh, Shining said, “I hope so. The other officers are a bit divided about him and the shadow guard.” Then glanced about the room saying, “Where is Masquerade any ways, I thought he would be here after we finished the meeting?”

Tilting her head, Cadence sad, “He wasn't with you when the meeting ended?” Looking around the room to see if the black stallion had snuck into some dark corner without their notice.

“I was held back by Spitfire over a few things, so I don't know where he wandered off to.” Shining admitted, wondering if he should feel worried about an unsupervised Masquerade creeping around the castle.