//------------------------------//
// Moments Before 
// Story: Unforgotten 
// by Riddle-Me-Think 
//------------------------------//


I do not own My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic





Walking before a large group of changelings, Sardonic ran his speculative gaze over each one, as if judging them to be fit enough for what he had called them for. Already he could their slightly risen fears, as if worried he was going to do something to them. They were right to be worried, but not for the same reasons they maybe had in mind.

Turning his attention to his best knight, Sardonic slightly noted in his mind that the common happen to be rather attached to this ‘potential’ rouge group he was about to send off. Shaking that thought away, Sardonic said, “Knight Ebon, I assume you know why I called for you and your fellow clansmen to be here?”

Giving a low bow, Ebon said humbly, “Yes sir. We are to go with you and make an exchange of people with the ponies of Equestria.” Keeping his voice and feelings rather level.

Sardonic smirked approvingly at the best knight of his clan, feeling a bit smug at how well the changeling preformed his tasks. “Good.” The clan head nodded, then turned to the other changelings addressing them, “You will all be staying with these ponies for an undisclosed amount of time. With this in mind, take what you wish with you. You might not be coming back.”

All the changelings, common and drone, bowed and dispersed for their normal gathering place, intent on brining what little they had with. Before Ebon could think of leaving, Sardonic ordered, “Knight Ebon, stay for a moment. The rest of your brothers are free to go though.”

Ebon froze in his place, while his fellow knights and teammates looked at both clan head and their team leader before leaving to gather their things. Once they were out of earshot, Sardonic once more ordered, “Follow me, knight.” and began leading towards the clan center.

With little hesitance, Ebon followed after the changeling heir, wondering what was on the changeling’s mind. A number of thoughts popped up in Ebon’s mind, but didn’t think they were good enough reason to be asked to follow.

When they reached one of the lower sections of the hive, a densely packed area of bent trees and vines, Sardonic said, “I have a special task for you, Ebon.” Keeping his voice stern.

Holding himself higher, Ebon told his leader, “I am to serve you and the clan sir. What do you need of me?” Readying himself to carry out any order given.

Turning his cat-like eyes to the changeling common, Sardonic said, “I need you to ready for a fight once you have settled in with the ponies.”

Ebon almost tripped at this, not expecting such an order. Regaining his footing, Ebon said, “Er, not that I don't distrust you sir, but why?” Honestly confused by the order.

Taking a moment to think for a moment, Sardonic said, “The ponies can not be trusted, Ebon.” Keeping his senses open for any eavesdroppers, “I feel this might be a ploy to weaken us and harm our clan. If they begin to mobilize for some reason, I want you and those with you, ready to act.”

Now looking concerned, Ebon said, “Do you really think they would do that?” Not sure how much to believe.

“Divide and conquer.” Sardonic told his knight, “There is a very real possibility that this is a ploy to take our trust and twist it into an attack. I will not let our clan be blindsided by any threats.” And looked to Ebon with two hardly glowing green eyes, “Be sure to do your duty and protect the clan. Do what you must to keep the Hive safe, even if it cost’s you your life.”

Though a little shaken at Sardonic’s harsh and demanding voice, Ebony nodded and said, “I had sworn to protect our clan, sir. I will do my duty and fulfill it, no matter the coast!”

Keeping his eyes on the common a bit longer, Sardonic eventually nodded saying, “It pleases me to know you are loyal to your brothers and sisters of the clan. You may go, but be sure to prepare for a war, and not just a battle.” And started to pull away form his subordinate, “The ponies might be weaker, but they do outnumber us greatly. Heed my words and prepare.”

Watching the clan head gain more distance, Ebon stopped and bowed, saying, “By your will, sir.” Then opened his wings and buzzed off, making a list of things to bring.

When the close buzzing of wings dissipated into the hum of the hive, Sardonic smirked to himself, feeling pleased that he had set another use for the soon-to-be traitors. He knew Ebon would pull through, being the loyal knight he was. He really didn't want to throw away such a powerful piece. Sardonic however knew, that in battle, some sacrifices had to be made to make advantages, or killing blows. Ebon would be lost, either by death or capture, but he could be replaced latter down the line.

May the ancestors guid your sword, and aid in slaying many, my knight. Sardonic thought, for you will either die in glory, or live in shame.





After some time to rest and think on what had happened the day before, all seven ponies in charge of the varying points of Equestria’s military power gathered, excluding one changeling heir. It was here Shining Armor told the others of his idea of testing the Malek rouge, mostly as a way to prove to each officer that the changeling was fit to work amount their highest ranks.

Brigadier Hill was the first to ask questions, saying, “Allow me to clarify this, Caption Armor.” Folding his hooves on the table, “You would like each of us to test this changeling in our own ways and methods, before passing him?”

Shining gave a single nod to this, conveying that was essentially what he had summed up.

Nearby, Star Watcher looked questioningly to the Caption, and said, “I thought that the Princesses’  made him the shadow guard’s overseer? I would think that they would appose this idea, seeing as he was apparently hoofed picked by them.” Sounding a tad suspicious.

“I talked it over with them yesterday after the meeting.” Shining Armor told the magical mare, “They thought that it would be a good idea to ‘put him through his paces’ and see how well he works along side us.”

Star Watcher still didn't look completely convinced, but decided not to bother throwing a fit over the idea. If anything, it gave her a chance to get a look at the changeling, and if need be, find reasons to show reasons not to let him part of their group.

Tapping a hoof on the table lightly, Evening Harvest asked, “Does he know about this, and when do you plan for us to test Masquerade?” Already trying to draw up ideas to put he infiltrator through, much like her fellow officers were no doubt doing too.

Turing to the mint-green mare, Shining Armor said, “I plan to have Masquerade be passed off to each of of you for one week at the most. I wouldn't suggest just training test with him, but live scenario missions. Otherwise there’s a chance you might not get the results you want. He tends to cheat.” Saying the last bit mostly to himself.

Shaking his head, Shining continued on, “And to answer your first question, I can only hope he doesn’t know.” Casting a look over those at the table, “He has a way of sneaking in and overhearing things. I actually wouldn't be surprised if he somehow snuck in here and was hiding in this room.”

Letting a small smile tug at he corner of his mouth, Hill said, “I find that unlikely. Rooms like these are made to keep intruders out. I can’t see a feasible way for him to sneak past a magically locked door. Unless he knocks and asked politely.” Getting a few chuckles around the table.

Getting a slightly amused smile on his own lips, Shining Armor said, “Well, I think you’ll know what I mean in the coming weeks. While your all testing Masquerade, I’ll be helping getting the shadow guard ready here in the castle. It will be a while before it can start operations.”

“Why does the shadow guard have to be set up here in the castle?” A voice rang out, making all ponies turn their surprised heads over to a previously empty space at the table. Sitting there and leaning of the table with an elbow propping up his head, Masquerade continued to say, “Personally, I would want to make the shadow guard into more dispersed cells… or set up the base of operations somewhere less known.”

Before the Caption could get out any words, Monsoon half stood on her part of the table, almost shouting, “How did you get in here!?” Feeling a little alarmed that Masquerade had snuck in, and without her notice, seeing as she was part of a guard that partially specialize in sneaking.

Grinning, Mask simply stated, “Through the door of course.”

Masquerade’s answer did nothing to stop the questioning and bewildered looks on all the ponies faces. Shining Armor put a hoof to his head, starting to consider getting his sister to do something about the unruly stallions antics. She seems to have a way of keeping him in line. Maybe I should just ask Twily for advice?

Deciding to mostly ignore the ruckus he was making, Masquerade continued to grin as he asked, “So, which one of you lucky ponies get’s to have me over for this little, one-on-one time?” Feeling the need to do some overdramatic cackling at their expense.

None spoke out immediately, mostly due not knowing what they should do. Each officer was hoping to use some of their meeting to plan out how to test the stallion before giving him their decision. This was however, toppled over with his sudden, and unwanted appearance.

Looking about the room, Spitfire sighed to herself, knowing she had a bit more time to think about the situation already, and said, “You can start with me.” Gaining the attentions of the others. Keeping her shade-covered-eye towards the stallion, the wonder bolts Caption said, “After how you’ve been acting, I think I should get first shot at you and see how much of a hot shot you really are under pressure.”

Giving a lazy grin, Masquerade said, “Challenge accepted, Caption Spitfire.” His relaxed posture showing lack of interest, while his green eyes danced with some form of anticipation and mischief.

Keeping eye contact with the stallion, Spitfire kept a straight face while saying, “Carful, you might regret taking up this challenge…recruit.” Trying her best to show that she was not to be messed with.

To the mare’s ire, Masquerade’s grin seemed to just grow slightly, as he said, “Or, you might regret challenging me.” And looked over to Shining saying, “So, when are theses test’s going to happen?” Not showing any concern about what was to come.

“Soon.” Shining Armor curtly said. Turing to Spitfire, he told the mare, “Do you think you can have your team ready to work with Masquerade later this week?”

Giving a salute, Spitfire said, “Without any problems.” Casting a glance over to the changeling and wondering what he would bring to the table later on.

“Good.” Shining said with an approving tone, “Now that is done with, and that our later topic has been done for us—” Sending a slight glare over to the cheeky looking changeling, “Then I think it’s time I discussed another matter with you all… Without Masquerade.”


Masquerade lifted a brow but shrugged, saying, “Alright.” Somewhat surprising the white stallion, “Considering your little gang wants to test me out before I can be ‘part’ of your group, I’ll play ball and leave you all to your chatting.” Getting up and heading to the door adding with a wide grin, “It’s not like I wont find out later, when you all have to tell me, like it or not.” 

While the changeling infiltrator left the room through the unlocked-and-relocked magical door. Shining Armor looked up with pleading eyes. He was hoping for some kind of help when controlling the black stallion that was wooing his sister, unsure what sort of troubles he might bring, along with his aid.





In the royal library inside of Canterlot castle, Twilight could be seen leaning over a table and going over what books she could while she had the chance. It was true she could have books sent to her own library back in Ponyville, but the idea of not needing to wait for some that she could just browse for, was something of a treat for her. 

With her current line of research and experimenting in mind, Twilight had gone straight to work on gathering the needed books and notepads she would need. She had woken just a little before dawn, giving her a few hours of research before needing to see to the changelings in the barracks. Then when the time came, she could go and make sure both the ponies and changeling were making nice with the other. 

“Ah, I should have expected to see you here, young Sparkle.” A voice somewhat cackled from behind the lavender mare, causing her to turn and see Intrusive standing behind where she had sat herself.

Back in his old-pony disguise, the Lue elder made his way around the table Twilight had seated herself, saying, “I must admit, it warms my heart to see younglings pursue after the knowledge kept in these books.” Setting his own stack down on the table and taking a seat.

Relaxing in his place for a moment, Intrusive let his eyes wander over what Twilight was reading, and smiled, “Rune and enchantments?” Feeling his lips quirk up as he asked, “Interested in making something to help with your day-to-day activities?”

Smiling some, Twilight responded, “In a way… Masquerade an I were trying to figure a way to make the invisibility spell he had last longer.” Tapping the books with a hoof telling the elder, “I thought that we could use runes and enchantments to help with that.”

Rubbing his chin, Intrusive nodded, “Yes, when dealing with unknown spells or magic, runic arrays are where one must start.” Opening his own book while saying, “But I have a feeling that you will do more than just make young Masquerade’s illusions better?”

Nodding shyly, Twilight admitted, “I was thinking of figuring a way to make it so he could use more pony based magic, without the threat of it hurting him.”

With a small smile, Intrusive nodded, “A ideal goal, for helping your mate.” Smirking some as the mare suddenly blushed. Before Twilight could say anything, Intrusive went on, “I also should tell you while I have the chance. I had received a letter from Masquerade, wishing to know if I was willing to let you look at the Lue clans manuscripts.”

Looking up with an amused gleam in his eye, Intrusive smiled, “I for one, do not see any harm in letting you into the library which I maintain.” Then returned his eyes dow to the book before him, “As long as you have an escort to guid you, then who am I to keep a young scholar like you from learning?”

While the elder went back to reading the books he had collected, Twilight sat in utter shock. That shock quickly began to turn to excitement, as thoughts of what sorts of books she could find in a changing clan like the Lue. The same clan Masquerade had said is the smartest of the five prominent clans.

Finding her voice, Twilight said, “T-thank you.” Giving a slight bow over to Intrusive’s direction.

Te elder chuckled at this, unable to hold back the smile on his lips as he mused, “Why can my grand sons not follow your example, young Sparkle?” Then shook his head telling the lavender mare, “And no need for thanking me. You are not at our archives just yet.”

Raising her head and smiling, Twilight said, “I know, but I still want to thank you. As helpful as Mask has been, he only knows so much of your people. I wanted to ask him more, but I am starting to find we have less and less time talking about changelings, and more time… well.” Blushing a bit at the end.

Intrusive gave a small cackle and shook his head, “Ah, young love. Nothing like it!” Able to feel the mare’s alight embarrassment raise even further off of her. Calming down, Intrusive looked at the books he and and pushed them aside saying with folded hooves, “Then how about this. I am here now, and I know much of changelings. Just ask, and I can tell you some things, help give you a taste of what you will soon learn in my archives.”

Blinking at the offer a few time, Twilight smiled brightly, saying, “I don't know where start!” Searching her mind for a moment before saying, “Clans, I never got around to asking Mask how Clans really start out, or even formed.” Pushing her own books aside for a bit.

With a small huff of amusement, Intrusive said, “That is rather common knowledge among changelings, but I can help fill you in on the basics.” And leaned back a little saying, “First thing you must know is that there are six tiers to changeling clans, showing their current strength and fame to those that know of them.”

While Twilight retrieved a notepad to start making notes, Intrusive went on, “The very first clan type to form, are the Nomadic Clans. These clans are formed, by wondering changelings looking for safety in numbers, destroyed hives, or from Heirs wanting to start their own clan.”

“It is the latter of the three that happens the most, as the former of the three happen, and the middle of the three don't always escape for such a chance.” Said the elder changeling in a calm tone. Continuing on, Intrusive said, “As mentioned, it is the later of the three that occurs, and does so in this manner. A clan Heir, either restless in their position or feeling the need to expand, is given between thirty to forty followers. It is then a trial by fire if they survive alone, and without their old clans aid,”

Stopping her taking of notes for a moment, Twilight asked, “Isn’t that a little…harsh compared to how changelings behave?” Looking a little confused, “After all, you seem to always enforce cooperation and aiding of your fellow clansmen?” Trying to understand the sudden shift in their ways.

With a sad smile, Intrusive explained, “Those that leave willingly could ask for aid, but that would ruin the reason of their leaving. For them to be a new clan, they cannot rely on the main clan for help, but learn and grow on their own. Much like how a young bird leaves the nest, they must learn to survive on their own.”

Twilight nodded in understanding, though, she couldn't say she liked the thought much. In the end, it could be some form of tradition or just plain logic to let part of their clan leave. With a curious thought, Twilight asked, “Do all new clans need an heir?”

Smiling, Intrusive nodded, “It is mostly traditional to have an heir, but some commons and drones do try making a clan on their own. But, they usually die off without an heir to keep order in their ranks. Be it by power-struggle from within, or by other larger clans.”

“I see…” Twilight said, thinking this new bit of information over before saying, “Please, elder, continue.”

Intrusive did so, rather pleased to be teaching again. “After some time wandering and searching, the Nomatic clan will grow and fight other clans that may find them a threat. They may even find rouge or survivor changelings to add to their numbers. It is when they reach a hundred strong, that they settle down.”

“This next tier of clans, are the Minor clans. They are small, only numbering is the one or two hundreds. By this time, they have settled down in one area and have begun digging into the earth to make their first clan hive, making it into their image.” Said the elder as he thought over the facts, “By now, a two generations may have possibly passed, and the next heir of this new clan might have taken of this stage of the clans growth. Though, this depends if the first heir to start this endeavor ever found a mate to continue the succession line in heirs.”

Stopping her making of notes to raise a her pencil, Twilight asked, “How do they find somepony to chose as a mate? After all, I know that heirs are the smallest fraction of your population.” Wanting a larger picture to work from.

“There are a few ways this can happen.” Intrusive told the mare, whiting he could smoke his pipe in the library, “The most common way is to find a clan, willing to part with an heir, in exchange for a small alliance. Or, they could find another nomadic clan, also looking to make their own life, only to merge into one clan, in the interest of their followers. Other times, the heir could be a rouge, and with slim pickings on heirs, one cannot always have the best when searching for a mate.”

Nodding in thought, Twilight said, “So, it’s more about survival at this point, and even willingness to trust other clans, which you would normally never trust?”

“It is difficult choice to make.” Intrusive spoke calmly, “All clan heirs will have to make hard choices for their clans. This is how they build such understanding, by having to make extremely dangerous choices, with their clansmen’s lives on the line. It is truly a trial by fire.”

Twilight went quite, but nodded to this in acceptance saying, “You were getting to the next stage in a clans growth?”

“Yes, I was, wasn’t I?” Intrusive mused while clearing his throat, “The Minor clan will live above ground for a generation or two, digging out a hive large enough for their numbers. Once finished, they move in and continue work on making it their home, and expanding. Later, after a few more generations pass and the clan hive has been secured, a Noble clan is born.”

“It is by now that the clan has gained numbers of five or nine hundred, and now have begun to create their own ruling line of heirs, rules to follow, and tradition to live by. They are the first real stable clan, in the clans of the area.” Intrusive seemed to say in a satisfied tone, “If the clan makes it this far, then it truly is a clan of it’s own. One that can stand it’s own if ever choosing the need for war.”

Stopping her taking of notes, Twilight looked up and questioned, “For war?” Wondering why a clan, so successful in getting so far, would waste it in war or open conflict.

Giving a knowing nod, Intrusive told the young mare, “There are many types of clan, young Twilight. You have warrior like clans, thieving clans, scholarly clans, and those in between. Assassin clans, merchant clans, or even leading clans. But do remember, we rarely trust the other without some form of pre-made trust.”

Thinking for a moment, Twilight looked back on her notes while figuring, “The nomadic clans. Their so small, they’re not a threat, so if an alliance is made while their still small to another larger clan like a Noble, they could avoid war?”

“Very good.” Intrusive nodded approvingly, “You already have an idea on how changelings might think. A nomadic clan is much too small for it to be a real threat to a noble clan. Part of the reason noble clans are called such, is for making alliances with such small clans.” Shaking his head in amusement, the elder said, “Politics become more important to them at this time. And after many treaties, skirmishes or wars, they may eventually become like us Lue. A prestige clan.”

Seeing Twilight’s interested look, Intrusive smirked, “As you know, a prestige clan is well known, even among the smaller clans close by. We can number as low as fifteen-hundred, or as high as five-thousand. We gain lore and history over the centuries we survive, and hold some sway over the lesser clans around us.”

“Centuries…” Twilight breathed, thinking back to something Mask had once told her, and said, “Mask said the five clans were survivors during the destruction of the changelings. And that was nearly a thousand years back…” Trying to recall everything.

“Close.” Intrusive smiled, honestly impressed with the mare as of yet, “A one or two hundred years the five clans spent getting back on our hooves, forming minor and noble clans of our own. Six centuries latter, we became a prestige clan near the same time, and stayed that way for another three or four centuries.”

Waving for the unicorn mare to calm down some, Intrusive said, “Which get’s us to the fifth clan tier, Grand clans. They never have numbers under five-thousand, are rich with history, lore, culture— they are like a modern day civilization, being a millennium old as well… Close to what the five prestige clans have almost become, before the recent turn of events…”

Intrusive sighed, and somberly chuckled, “You know, I was looking forward to see the five prestige clans become the five grand clans. The first Grand clans in a millennium, only for fate to decide their fall.” Shaking his head ruefully adding, “Looks like I will be much too old before I ever see that happen again.”

Looking away some, Twilight said, “I’m sorry to hear that. It must of been a huge thing to see for your people see that you reached such a point…” Seeing as it would have been history in the making, to see their people rise to the hight’s in their prime.

Smiling sadly, the elder sighed slightly, shanking his head, “Do not fret, young Twilight. I should have known better than to think I would see such a sight.” Then looked up to the young pony before him saying, “But, I am glad to not only see the day, but be part of the point in history the Lue clan had to make peace with ponies. A real turning point in history, far surpassing that of becoming a Grand clan.”

Smiling in return, Twilight said, “It was my pleasure to help with that.” Glad to have gotten something good out of the situation herself.

Laughing a bit to himself, the elder said, “Well, I believe I must finish this little lesson and tell you the last tier us changelings reached before our fall so long ago.” Straightening himself some, Intrusive said, “The Imperial clan. The absolute hight of our power.”

“From what little information we have, these, or this clan, we are not sure— had numbers of about 10,000 and over. These clans are more akin to an empire, and would rule a number of the lesser clans as their own, bolstering their numbers greatly.”

“There sadly has not been a Imperial Clan since the battle between both changelings and the celestial sisters.” Intrusive gravely told Twilight, while adding, “It is even said in some ancient scripts, that a shadow king had a hoof in this clans fall, but no solid evidence has been found to prove such a thing. All we have are small myths or references, like a trap said king made to draw changeling to him, but nothing more.”

Twilight only nodded, looking back down at her notebook that was being filled wit notes to her most recently collected data on changelings. Looking to the same pad, Intrusive said, “At this rate, young Twilight, you may become the leading researcher on changelings.” Chuckling at the lavender mare’s surprise and bashful feelings.





After hours of working with both changeling and guard, Twilight made it back to her current room of stay and fell down on the closest body-sized pillow she could. After reading, having some time to learn from Intrusive and having to work with near-uncooperative ponies and changelings, Twilight felt drained.

Looking over to her bags, Twilight lit her horn and brought out her notes from earlier that day and go over what she had learned form the changeling elder. She had gone on and asked more questions to how the clans grew and even bothered to ask how they chose their clan names. Apparently, it was either gained by the name of it’s founder, or by declaration why they were becoming a new clan. Both memorable in their own way, one to remember who started their new clan, while the other uses a word for how they saw themselves.

Twilight nearly jumped out of her skin when another body leaned on her’s, before a familiar voice asked, “Rough day?” Nuzzling and grooming her mane some.

Giggling and using a hoof to push the black pony away, Twilight responded, “Yes, it was a little stressful.” Looking back to Masquerades green eyes. Looking away for a moment, Twilight said, “Mask, I wanted to say sorry for what happened a few days back… I had some time to think about it, and I felt I needed to talk to you.”

Giving a kiss to the mare’s cheek, Mask grinned, “Sure thing Twinkles. I’m always here to hear you out.” Using a hoof to encourage the mare to lean on him.

Rolling her eyes and accepting the offer, Twilight relaxed on the pillow that was her stallion while saying, “When you used that illusion spell on me… I think it reminded me too much of when I was cocooned…and I think I reacted because I was scared a little.”

Putting his head over Twilight’s own, Masquerade said, “Then I’m sorry too. I admittedly was tiered and wasn’t really thinking straight at the time. I should have really handled the situation differently if that’s how you really feel about it.” Feeling a bit more stupid with his choice a few days back.

Peeking an eye open at the note pad, Mask asked, “What’s that you have? More horrible experiments you plan to put me through?”

Shaking her head to make the stallion raise his head away, Twilight smirked, “Don’t change the subject, sneak.” Then looked down at her notes adding, “And no. I just asked Intrusive more about how changeling clans were made.”

Humming at that, Masquerade said, “So that’s what you were doing this morning… almost sounds as fun as me messing with your brothers little gang in that place they call a war room.” Sounding amused by the name.

Eyeing the unicorn by her side, Twilight asked, “Did you give my brother a hard time, Mask?” Her voice relaying the undertone that she would do something about his actions if answered wrong.

Looking nonplused, Mask said, “Why Twinkles, do you really thing I would cause unnecessary trouble for you dear brother and the head ponies to Equestria’s military?”

“Yes.” Twilight answered simply and knowingly.

Taking a hoof to pat the mare on her head, Mask grinned, “Good girl.” While adding, “No, I didn't bother making too large of a scene. Only enough so I could get a read on them.” Then gave a small shrug saying, “Apparently they want to test me to see if I’m worthy of the spot of being a fellow officer. Expect me to be with the Wonderbolts for a week before getting back home”

While looking surprised, Twilight soon joked, “Don’t let Rainbow hear this, she would beg you to bring her with.” Getting a laugh out of the stallion.

“I can imagine.” Masquerade agreed, somewhat looking forward to the week to come.





Things were almost ready, and the changelings that would leave with him prepared. Sardonic stood on the balcony overlooking his entire clan, looking it over with an eye of pride and certainty. He knew that even if his plan worked, he would be painting his clan up for war with the ponies, which meant that they would truly be tested to their greatest depths. Many would fall, but he was assured they would hold off any pony sent to his clan of warriors. the weak may fall, but they would only give room for the strong to grow.

“This is a foolish move.” Said the voice of the informant behind Sardonic, the one who had came just hours after his speech to his changelings on their mission, “My Master does not approve of these ideas you hold. It is not yet time to test Equestria’s patents when dealing with hostile clans.”

Sneering, Sardonic said, “Do not think me a simple fool. Your Master will get what he wants in the end. I maybe a warlord in the making, but I am not arrogant enough to think attaching mere weeks after this excursion would be a good idea.” Then turned to the changeling hidden under a hood and cloak adding, “Months are needed to observe and plan when fighting forces that number greater than one’s own. I may not play by the rules of the cloak, but I have well mastered that of the sword. Remember that.”

Even when he clan heir turned away from him, the informant just shook his head and said, “In either case, my Master is withdrawing his aid for the time being. He refuses to be seen just yet, and does not wish to risk his lot with you in this endeavor.”

Waving a hoof at the lowly changeling, Sardonic said, “Then begone. I have a number of clansmen to lead soon, and I do not need you here overstaying your welcome.”

The clocked changeling backed off, disappearing into the shadows, already leaving to inform his Master of the new development. Sardonic himself continued to look over his clan, knowing in a few days time, he would be face-to-face with the changeling slayer herself, Celestia.