Unforgotten

by Riddle-Me-Think

Casting of Blood

I do not own My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic

---

Canterlot has been known for many things over history since it’s making. Such as the castle of the sky, from how high up it was made. Or the watchful city, because of how Celestia lives in such a place. It has even been commonly considered the main city any unicorn would live or make their living.

But despite all of this, there were even more things others did not know, or even bothered to know. One such as the Canterlot caves, deeper into the mountain and snaking out into large catacombs and tunnels that create a natural labyrinth. Or the extremely few thieving groups that do their best to be hidden in such a protected city as Canterlot. But one thing it was not known for was the prison under the castle of the celestial sisters.

Here, in the more darker and duller dungeon that is made to steal all hope of escape, one would find that it has not seen much use in the last few hundred years. Alas, this once feared place had faded much into memory, no longer containing madponies, crazed murderers or captured prisoners of war. It has sat mostly forgotten and unused, only guarding the dust that decide that a prison cell would make a nice vacation spot.

That had changed one day though, and if these dull walls with their imposing stone could emulate any sort of emotion; it would be jumping in joy at having somepony to contain. The pony brought in was thrown in the first, deepest cell the guard could find before locking it up and leaving him trapped inside the labyrinth of a prison.

Aside from that, nothing had happened. The pony jut stayed in the same spot, snoring away in a deep sleep and practically dead to the world. Guard ponies would come down with food to make sure their charge was fed enough to be somewhat satisfied. But they quickly learned that whatever the changelings did to the poor sap, had him completely out cold.

For two days, the pony had done nothing but sleep, barely able to even turn over to make himself more comfortable on the unforgivingly hard stone floor. It was actually making Shinning Armor a tad worried that their prisoner had been sleeping most of the time, and had sent a message out one day to find out why, via Princess. The answer he had received, he had not expected. Being that the pegasus stallion was given a drug to make him sleep, but was apparently given a slight overdose and may wake with a headache.

So, with no choice, they all had to wait until the drug wore off and let the accused pony of attempted rape, wake up. Then maybe wait a while for the headache to pass so the stallion could actually answer their questions without being handicapped. They felt that it was a good decision, see in that on the the third day, the would-be-rapist woke up, groaning in pain from his headache.

When day four rolled around, some of the staff had left for some needed free time. Saturdays were good for that, getting out and getting some rest from a hard week of work. Same could not said for Shining Armor, who was still going through the gathered files of each candidate and weighing each one in his mind. With the work required of him as the Caption of the guard, the prisoner in the dungeon and going over each file, he found himself to immersed in his worked to think of much else.

So it was with some restrained frustration that Shining Armor looked up at the sound of knocking. There at the door was was one of the solar guards, standing straight and ridged as he informed, “Cinder Lock’s awake sir. He seems to be confused as to what is going on and is demanding as to his situation.”

Giving a sigh, Shining searched the piles of papers in front of him for a while before finding what he wanted. Grabbing it with his magic, he floated a copy of charges saying, “Tell him what he’s charged for and then read him his rights. An investigation is already in progress, so we might have more later.” Leaving out the fact of who was leading the investigation.

The guard nodded and took the paper in his own magic, giving a salute and crisply turning around and leave. This let him miss his superiors someway tired sigh as he got back to his paperwork. The guardspony didn't let his attention waver from his task as he headed down each hall or when he descended into the deeper parts of the castle.

Deep in these darkly lit halls, the pony guard could only feel some form of emptiness at it all, much like an abandoned building with no pony to maintain it. After a while of walking, he came up to their prisoner, whom was being awfully quiet and watching his approach.

Keeping at lease a few feet away from the bars of the prison, the unicorn guard straightened out the paper before him and read off, “Cinder Lock. you have been accused of sexual assault and rape of a citizen of Equestria. Further more, from some testimony form the victim clams you have done so on multiple occasions with a few other Ponies. Investigation is still underway, so your charges may build from there.” From here the guard rolled his eyes and tiredly recited in a bored tone, “You have the right to remain silent. Anything and everything you say can or will be used in a—”

“Yeah, yeah, I get it.” Cinder Lock waved a hoof before going back to relaxing on the floor, “You don't need to kill yourself over that part.” Closing his eyes to seemingly take a nap.

A little stunned, the guard considered trying to read the stallions rights over again, but decided it wasn't worth the effort if he wasn't going to listen. So with a carless shrug, the guard turned around and left for the exit. While he left, Cinder Lock kept his eyes on the guard, taking note of every detail he could with his eyes.

---

Celestia waited with a pleasant smile on her lips as Sham of the Gem clan and Intrusive of the Lue clan walked in. As customary, Intrusive was sure to humbly bow before Celestia, while Sham did a lazy half attempt of one. Nodding to both changelings, Celestia said, “Clan head Sham. Elder Intrusive. Thank you for answering my summons.”

With a nod, Intrusive said, “Of course your highness. It is a pleasure to be here and serve you as not only allies, but fiends.” Having a grandfatherly like smile.

Sham on the other hoof, rolled his eyes and just waited for the alicorn to tell him why they were called. He had other matters to attend to, mostly concerning his sleep schedule and making sure the bits were flowing in his clan.

Somewhat beaming at this, Celestia said, “That is good to know.” Spreading her wings as she arose, “Come, I have set up a room for us to talk in.” Leading the two changeling heirs out the thrown room and down the winding halls.

“I should inform you now, that we have made contact with two scouts from another clan that have had bad blood with the Quasi clan.” Celestia started to tell the two changelings-in-pony-form, “I was hoping that you both could help ease a few things between the two before we try advancing any further.”

“Do you know what caused the bad-blood?” Sham asked, only slightly narrowing his eyes at the situation. In all honesty, he was not surprised that the ponies were wanting reaching out to more changeling clans to make friends. It had done them good in the past and made them stronger. But changelings are different. We would take advantage of that. Sham made sure to himself that would not come to pass.

Anticipating this to some degree, Celestia was not fazed by the sudden question and told the lazy changeling, “Both clans use to be at war with the other. But after much fighting, they both stopped, coming to a stalemate. That was three years back and new clan heads have taken over since then.”

Slowly nodding, Intrusive thought on the matter some and asked, “Would one of these clan heads be the same changeling heir we hear parading trough Canterlot a month back?” Already slightly aware of some happenings around the city his clans changelings were watching over.

“It is.” Celestia said, “Her name is Opulent, and she is the clan head to the Quasi clan. The other clan is the Salient, and we currently have two of the later clans scouts here.”

“Not to interrupt, your highness.” Intrusive cut in, “But scouts? What about the clan head to the Salient, is he or she unable to come and sent these scout’s in their stead?” Slightly suspicious as to what was at play.

Shaking her head, Celestia said, “No, they were captured during one of Masquerade’s first missions. One of them were even sent here by some of your own clan.” A little confused how the elder didn't know this information.

Clearing his voice some, Intrusive said, “Then I apologize. I was not aware of that fact, as I use my time teaching and doing research these days. I have since passed on my role as Bard's advisor to another some time back now…” Almost regretting that he didn't read the reports turned in from missions done recently.

Giving the older pony a smile, Celestia assured, “It is alright Professor Intrusive. I mostly asked for you or Bard’s presents during this to help smooth things over between the two clans. And to fully answer your question, the Salient clan might be suffering from a possible splintering, and these scouts might be part of the breaking group.”

Sham was quick on what the Princess was telling them and said, “You want to welcome the splinter group in with open hooves. Make allies out of what the clan would believe to be traitors.” Looking at the alicorn mare adding, “Showing sympathy to gain further support and allegiance.”

Somewhat sighing at this, Celestia said, “Though having allies is a good thing, that was not the primary intent, Sham. Merely the outcome that comes with making friends.” Not sure how to take the lazy clan head’s take on the situation.

“Regardless of how Sham looks on the situation,” Intrusive started, sending a look over to the mentioned changeling, “We will abide to how you wish to handle the situation. Wont we, clan head Sham?” Sham only replied with a tiered sigh and a eye-roll.

---

Tidy-Tip was a new recruit part of the Canterlot guard since the changeling attack nearly a month back. The training had been long and hard for her to get in,but now she was put on hold from further her skills. There apparently were not enough ponies able to train all the recruits that had come in, so she was one of the few on hold until more room was made.

And I’m stuck getting some pervert from a cell for some questioning. She rolled her blue eyes while straightening the basic iron armor that was over her body. Unlike most of the solar guard with their lighter and shiny gold-like armor, her’s was a plain grey, and a little clunky on her chest and flank. The helm also seemed heavy, and if it was not for the strap to keep it in place, it would slip about more often.

Valorvale’s was the apparent military group Tidy-Tip had to train with first, to learn the basics and build up the needed strength and endurance the grounded earth pony forces were known for. However, she was going to be stuck with simple guard duty and slightly demeaning tasks until a spot opens up for her to start the real training above being a recruit.

Knowing Poppy Seed, he’s already done with basic and part of the reserve. Tidy-Tip thought a little angrily, knowing her friend/rival was able to be accepted in before all the spots were filled in. She had apparently impressed somepony during the initiation test to weed out the unable.

As she got closer to the prison cell holding the criminal, the new recruit noticed something out of place when she looked into the cell. Instead of a orange pegasus stallion, there was a unicorn guard, out cold and laying on the ground. Rushing from a trot to a run, Tidy-Tip hit the iron bars repeatedly calling, “Guardspony, are you alright in there? What happened?”

All that was heard was a small groan, as the stallion hardly moved his head as if he was struck extremely hard. Whipping the keys out, Tidy-tip began unlocking the cell and thew the door open. Rushing in, she checked on the downed pony, picking him up some and trying to wake him.

“Hey, you okay?” Tidy-Tip tapped the stallion guard’s cheek, trying to get him to wake up.

Both eye suddenly snapped open and suddenly glowed a deep blood red, and a feral smirk appeared on the guardpony’s lips, as he spoke, “Now I am.” And quicker than Tidy-Tip could properly react, the unicorn stallion opened his jaws wide and lunged forwards, clamping down on the recruits neck.

Yelping in pain and shock, Tidy-Tip fell back as the larger stallion pined her to the prison floor and hold her in place. Fear began to overtake her mind, and Tidy-Tip began to struggling, flailing her hooves and uselessly kicking her hind legs. She could suddenly feel her body slowly go numb from her neck, and feel her strength slowly fade away.

The stallion over her only continued to smirk, drinking in the utter fear and despair the mare was having at that moment. He continued to not only take in her fear, but drink of the liquid life that flood through the recruits veins to further strengthen his power. Nearly two minutes in, and the mare had stopped moving, falling prey to his special brand of magic to truly feed.

Once he was done, the guard pony removed his now bloodied muzzle from the mares neck and looked down at her. His eyes drank in the image of her quickly moving panicked eyes and her overall helpless state. With a dark smile, he leaned down to her ear and said, “Do you feel that?” Taking a hoof to run over the mare’s silvery coat, “That numb feeling that is making it impossible to move, but also makes that itch beneath your skin?”

His smile grew at Tidy-Tip’s panicked breathing, as he continued to say, “That is a little something I learned you know.” Curling back his lips to show a row of unnaturally sharp teeth for a pony to have, “And it is going to make your body all mine.”

He let out a dark chuckle as he witnessed a few small tremors and twitches over the mare’s body, feeling the nudge in his mind that she was actively trying to fight back. It seemed so pathetic, but it amused him to no end. With a rather pleased smirk he ordered, “Rise.”

Tidy-Tip screamed in her mind as she felt her body move against her will, following the pony-monster’s orders. This can’t be happening! Why can’t I control my body? Help, HELP!! But none of her words got out, and the only evidence of her wanting to speak came form the hardly trembling lips that remained closed.

Circling his latest catch, the stallion nodded saying, “Not bad. A tad shorter then most, but I don't mind that. And by the looks of it, you have a fair will.” Able to tell the mare was doing all she could to fight his influence over her body. Coming around and putting his face before the mare, emerald green fire enveloped his body, showing the changeling beneath.

Tidy-Tip wanted to recoil away, but her body remind were it stood and giving her a close up look to a changeling shifting form. Standing before her was a changeling common, who’s horn lost it’s curve, becoming a straight spike. His black chitin had a slight red sheen to it, while the shell on his back had become a deep red. The wings didn't look like normal wings for a changeling, becoming long and thin like a misquotes. Even the back of his forelegs had a difference in the form of rows of little spikes.

What had all her attention however, was the two long serrated fangs protruding from his mouth and the two blood-red compound eyes. When he opened his mouth, his voice made a slight echoing gurgling sound as he said, “I will enjoy watching your will and hope get slowly squashed until it’s nothing but a tasty glass of terror and turmoil that I can refresh myself with!”

If anything, this only made Tidy-Tip internal struggles more desperate, using every little scrap of her will to make anything on her body work. The changeling only let out a gruesome sounding laugh that mocked her attempts of freedom and freewill. She was a prisoner in her own body, and no mater what she was doing, nothing would happen.

After letting the recruit struggle in her body a bit more, the changeling eventually got his laughter come under control. Watching in amusement for a bit longer, he decided to get moving while he could. It was with that, that he ordered, “Remove your armor.”

Without any form of resistance, the mare began undoing her armor and letting it drop to the floor. For a moment the order made Tidy-Tip stop her struggling at the odd order. But when she remembered what the pony —whom apparently was changeling— was jailed for made her try getting control of herself.

When he last of the armor fell from her body, the changeling couldn't help but give her toned body an apprising look saying, “I don't know why they make you mares wear armor. It really hides how magnificent you look.” Leering at the mare’s body.

Keep away from me, you creep! Tidy-Tip shouted from inside her head, while she shuddered at the thought. It was bad enough she had no control of her body. It was only worse it was being controlled by a rapist.

Ogling her a big longer, the changeling eventually got his head out of the gutter and ordered, “Time to leave. Your staying in front of me.”

Almost like a puppet tied to strings, Tidy-Tip’s body began following the changeling orders and began walking, letting him place a hoof her her flank to guid her direction. It was with a horrifying realization that Tidy-Tip understood why she was without her armor and was in the front. She was a hostage. A completely compliant and obedient hostage that had no control over their own actions.

Even as Tidy-Tip was panicking at this new discovery, she started to notice that they were not heading for the exit to the dudgeons they were in. Testament to how it was made, her captor was leading her all over the confusing halls and prison cells, letting out harsh hissing at being lost.

At first Tidy-Tip wondered why he didn't order her to just say were the exit was. After all, like the invasion showed, changeling were said to be able to take over a ponies mind. That was what was happening now, right?

No… I can’t control my body… but I’m still thinking! Tidy-Tip began to work out in her head as they made another wrong turn, He’s not in my head, and he’s not controlling my thoughts. That means it’s my body that’s being controlled. HA, control over me and a hostage, BUT I’M STILL USLESS TO YOU!

Feeling the hope and mocking joy the mare was giving off, the changeling gave the mare a hard glare and hissed out, “What are you so happy about?”

Of course, the pony did not make any reply or sound, but the changeling could clearly taste her smug feelings. With a angered hiss, he roughly gripped her tail with a hoof and pulled. Hard. As an instinctive act, the body still make a squeak in discomfort, but what was more louder was the feelings of pain and helplessness that the mare gave off as her tail was abused.

“I control you. You are mine. Don't go thinking you have anything over me.” The changeling male reminded his captive, “I may not know where the exit is, but it will be found. And unlike you, I won't be going hungry any time soon.” At this he grind a horrendous smile as he felt the fear rise from Tidy-Tip. He was serous when he meant he was going to crush her will.

---

It was a fairly well known fact by now that changelings never did like other changelings they did not know. They were known to hiss, be cold and sometimes all out attack for no reason, just to be sure that the other was no longer a threat to themselves or their clan. That being said, Celestia felt that all things considered, things were going rather well.

“How it our fault that he died? We were just trying to expand!” Ventral shouted, trying to hold back her feelings of fear when addressing not only the clan head to the Quasi clan, but the daughter to their last great enemy.

“It was because of your warmongering clan that I lost my father from battle wounds. This is not mentioning the near starvation of my people that followed or my rushed coronation to leadership, and the hardships that I was not prepared for!” By now Opulent had lost all her control and yelled at what was —and still in her mind— their clans greatest enemy.

“The both of you, stop this squabbling!” Intrusive barked out, “It is no way to conduct proper talks between potential allies!”

Rolling his eyes, Sham asked, “Does it matter?” Waving a lazy hoof at the two yelling changelings saying, “Their only minor clans…Noble at the most, but otherwise little to two-tenths of our own numbers.”

Slamming a hoof onto the marble table, Opulent said, “Are you trying to insight something, Lue?” Not having that well of an opinion of the lazy changeling heir. She admitted he looked nice once he shrugged off his pony form, but his overall lazy nature and snarky remarks had long since removed that physical appeal.

“No more then you are, irritating mare…” Sham shot back with a dull tone, only the most smallest of edges distinguishable in his voice.

Watching the preceding with Celestia was Cadence, whom darted her eyes from one changeling to the other, as if watching some massive battle going on. Threats and shouts had been exchanged between all four parties, not leaving a moment of peace.

Looking to her aunt, the youngest of the alicorns asked in a hushed voice, “Shouldn't we try to stop them?” Pricking her ears and whipping her head up to see Sham and Opulent half standing on the table to glare at the other and do a fast and furious exchange of words.

Next to a slightly worried Cadence, Celestia calmly sat in her place and lifted her cup of tea to take a dainty sip, humming in appreciation of the calming mint taste. Opening her eyes, she watched as the ‘children’ continued their bickering with one another and calmly said, “They are only trading death-threats my niece. Nopony’s dead yet, so every thing is fine.” Going back to sipping her tea, even as Sham and Opulent got in the others face, shouting at the top of their lungs.

Even if her aunt was calm and confident, Cadence still cast her gaze around the room of shouting changelings and Opulent’s four guards that were awaiting their orders. She was at least happy that ten solar guards were posted in the same said room, but only a little bit.

Looking back at the argument that was happening, Cadence was disturbingly reminded how tall changeling heirs were, being nearly as tall, if not a bit more taller, then herself. Being one of the naturally tallest ponies, it was a rare to ever be shorter to anypony else.

“I don’t care if you lead a prestige clan, Sham, but you do not compare my clan to that of nomadic clans!” Opulent bared her teeth and flared her slightly buzzing wings, trying to cow the changeling stage before her.

Even with his name being spat out, Sham was not intimidated by the mare in front of him. Her more slimmer wings, body and smaller fangs and slightly shorter hight did nothing to cow him. In response to her threatening display, he bared his teeth, showing his much larger fangs that were nearly three-times Opulent’s own, and spreading his more broader wings saying, “Your clan is still small. I have yet to see what boon your clan would give us in the long run!”

A sudden poof and flash of green made all present stop and turn their eyes to Celestia, who with practiced reaction snatched a scroll from the air. Looking about and seeing all the looks she was receiving, Celestia smiled and calmly said, “Excuse me, I need to take this.” Looking down at the letter and noticing the black ribbon and green seal with her and her sisters merged cutie marks.

With narrowed eyes , Celestia broke the seal and went straight to reading what her sisters agent had messaged them for.

---

To which ever sister gets this first.

I have continued my investigation into the situation pertaining to Cinder Lock and evidence either against him, or for him. We had nearly become convinced he was possibly innocent, but a changeling acting as him to investigate his home has found something.

There was an apparently hidden cellar filled with wines and beers. This was not gave concern though, but the six or so mares trapped and in varying states of harm. Be it from bruising or cuts, I have reason to believe that they have been to tortured to be obedient to their captor.

But more importantly the pony that is in your custody is not a pony. I have good reason to believe that you have a highly dangerous changeling rouge in your custody. I can’t e sure, but there is evidence he is a blood caster. I have not sensed his presents either, meaning stage-4 transformation.

I urge you to eliminate him if you can. If you are still unwilling to kill him, then make sure he is in the most restraining, anti-magical, muzzle-fitted, straightjacket you can find. Make sure he's in a padded room with anti-magical properties as well.

What you do about this rouge is up to you, but I still would suggest his immediate removal from life itself.

Doble Take~

---

Celestia could not help but read over the letter again and think about what was in front of her. The ruler of the day wrestled with her thoughts as to what to do with what she now knew. On one hoof, she wanted to do this by judge and jury, following the laws she had made. But from the urgency Masquerade —also known a sDouble Take— was trying to make in the letter was making her hesitate.

But what really held her concern most was the potential of him being something called a blood caster. From what my student has told me, these changelings can use magic that can control the bodies of others, or even use their victims blood to strengthen and heal themselves. Feeling more alarm build in her mind as she continued digging for information provided by Twilight Sparkle. There was also something about using blood as a weapon. And if I recall right, some suffer mass hysteria and paranoia.

“Your highness?” Intrusive’s voice broke Celestia out of her inner musing, making her look to all the changelings that were looking to her with concern. With a nearly carful tone, Intrusive asked, “Is everything well? You seemed troubled.”

Looking around, Celestia debated about telling them that she had something to do, but knew that she couldn't lead them. There was also the chance she needed them for this, considering it was a rouge changeling she was maybe dealing with. Taking a moment to compose herself, Celestia said, “I just received a message from Masquerade.” Looking at each changeling to see most knew who she was talking about.

Waving the rolled up letter in her magical grasp, Celestia continued, “It appears a convicted pony we have in our custody is highly-likely a changeling rouge. One that has stage-4 transformation and is a blood caster.”

The effect was instant, with Sham moving away from the table and losing his tiredness saying, “Then we don't have time for this.” Locking his eyes with the letter, “If it’s making you concerned, then it must have two-face extremely worried as well. We need to deal with this now”

Getting up, the elderly Lue changeling also agreed, “Sham is correct, your highness. Rouges are naturally dangerous. If this one is a blood caster as well, we need to contain it posthaste.” Already joining next to Sham in moving.

Taking a breath to calm herself, Opulent stared at Celestia and said, “If there is a blood caster here, I think you will be needing our help Celestia. They are not to be taken lightly.” Using her magic to pull her saddle bags close for easy access.

Looking at all the changelings, Cadence found herself asking, “I’m sorry but what is so dangerous about a single changeling that does this blood casting?” Not completely up-to-date on all things changeling.

“They are changelings that feed on fear.” Ventral spoke up from her spot at the table, already looking troubled, “And I can tell you by first hoof experience, they can be really dangerous.” Slightly shivering in thought of the few blood casters that Sardonic kept as trump cards.

Iota also shivered with her clan sister, saying aloud, “Those kind of changeling really creep me out. I watch them take control of others and just make them do things they didn't want to.” Not at all feeling comfortable knowing a rouge one was inside the castle.

Standing up and flaring her wings, Celestia said, “I can not ask any of you to—”

“We’re doing Princess, no asking needed.” Sham was quick to cut off, “There is a dangerous changeling in this castle. If we don’t properly contain it, it will get lose and there will be consequences for both of us!” Hammering the point that a huge incident could occur if the changeling were to somehow get loose.

For once, Celestia felt her mouth click shut at what Sham had said. She knew he was right in that point, that if this rouge were to get lose, changeling reputation could take a nosedive. The pony opinion of changelings in general was still very shaky, with some scared of them, and others just confused.

Sighing, Celestia nodded and conceded, “You have more experience in dealing with changelings. If you really wish to help, then please follow me.”

Before any of them could leave the room though, a bell began to sound off and reach into the room. While most gave confused looks, Celestia looked alarmed and said, “Come quickly, I fear he’s gotten loose!”

---

Nearly two hours of just wandering about and trying to figure out where the exit was, the changeling finally found it and smiled in triumph. He could tell he was on the right path by the mare’s feelings, almost like they were shouting her shame and fear at every one of his correct decisions.

Giving a slight push, the changeling continued to lead the controlled pony forward with a hoof, making sure she was in front of him the whole time. With another flash of green fire, he was once more Cinder Lock, smirking at his escape from the prisons below in the form of a staircase.

Reaching the top and command given, Tidy-Tip opened the door and continued to walk on with Cinder Lock following her close behind. This however didn’t go completely unnoticed as one of the two guards posted turned to the mare with one asking, “Um, ma’am, what were you doing down there?” Noticing her lack of armor.

“Attack.” Was all Cinder Lock said, watching in some satisfaction as Tidy-Tip attacked the first guard closest to her, while he attack the other one. Still with his sharpened teeth at the ready, Cinder Lock bit into the guards exposed neck, getting to work on taking control of the pony’s body.

NO! Stop, you stupid body, stop! Tidy-Tip continued to scream in her mind as her body continued to relentlessly attack the guard, who though defending himself, was confused what was going on. This didn't stop him from grabbing her and pinning her to the floor, trying to keep her still.

Before he could start yelling at her to concede, his partner came and talked him down to the ground, holding him in place. As soon as her body was free, Tidy-Tip could only watch as she got up and helped restrained the other guard to the floor. With a hoof, she pushed the guards head up, seemingly following some silent command to expose the struggling guards neck.

Then came Cinder Lock, who went for the neck once more and latch onto the restrained guardspony. Tidy-Tip couldn't believe what she was doing— what she was being forced to do!

I joined the Valorvale’s so I could stop these bug-ponies if they ever attacked us! Tidy-Tip’s lip trembled and her eyes welled with tears that began to run down her cheeks. Now look at me. Helping the same thing I wanted to protect Equestria from! She wanted so desperately to cry. To yell… To scream with her voice, the same thing she used to use with such freedom.

Finished with his work, Cinder Lock got off the guard and licked the remaining blood from his lips saying, “Now then. It’s about time I left. Come on, we’ll be needing an escort.” Waving for both guard to flank both him and Tidy-Tip. Without a word, they did as told, taking up positions to their left and right.

Opening a wing, Cinder Lock laid it over Tidy-Tip’s back, much to the mare’s distress. From there he began to guid his group through the halls, searching for a way out. So far, Cider Lock understood that he still had the element of surprise, and planed to use it to it’s fullest.

Keeping himself calm, the blood caster began plotting out escape plan if he were to get caught again. Doubtful though. These ponies are just as smart as the plants they eat. Cinder Lock joked to himself as he continued looking for a way out.

But as they traversed the halls, the changeling inside of him felt something was off. He wasn't sure what it was as he turned each corner or down each hall. Somethings off… He noted to himself, taking in his surroundings.

“Halt!” Shouted a guard up ahead, leveling a spear down at Cinder Lock. Two others to his left and right also leveled their spears, while a third hanging in the back ran off, supposedly to call for assistance.

Putting on the most pleasant smile he could, the fake pony said, “Excuse me guardspony’s, but these two were escorting me and this lovely lady out. Is something happening?” Trying to remain calm at the actions the solar guards were taking.

With hard stared, the guards didn't move from their place, as he leader of them said, “No, we know that you are an escapee.” Then sent a glance over to one of his fellow guard’s, who still had a noticeable red blood stain on his neck.

Noticing the stare and following it, Cinder Lock cursed for not cleaning up the evidence of his actions. He should had noticed it, but he was more focused on escape then being carful in much else. Looking back at those blocking his path, he ordered, “Attack.”

Just like before, Tidy-Tip found her body starting to move on it’s own, but found the same wing over her hold her in place. “Not you.” Cinder Lock said to her, “You stay here.” And watched with Tidy-Tip as the two controlled guards attacked their brothers-in-arms.

Tidy-Tip was then subject to watching the two unarmed guard get in a fight with those armed with spears. The normal deterrent of the spear points did nothing to make the controlled guards hesitate to tackle their targets down. From there, they just pummeled the knocked-down guard with their hooves like mindless grunts. The third that did not have a pony on him, got up and used his spear to smack the controlled guards off, giving his two allies time to get up.

He then began fending off the two guards that were now his foes, finding that their skills didn't completely match up to how most solar guards had. At times they would blink, or their eyes would dart away, making them lose sight of the fight. but even with these minor distractions in sight, the bodies continued to do as told, fighting with the best of their abilities.

Feeling a slight pull, Tidy-Tip found herself being guided away from the fight and down a new hall, one she new would lead outside. It was during her realization that Cinder Lock began to speed up, almost as if he knew it was the way out. She then began to worry, and once more try fighting with her own body functions to rebel against her own captive.

While Tidy-Tip panicked and fought, the changeling with Cinder Lock’s appearance was curing and wondering how he was discovered so soon. It became apparent that the halls were bare of staff, something he figured it should have. Looking around, he could tell he was in a castle, and he only knew of one castle under pony control. Canterlot. Home to the aristocrats and the Princesses’ It was the worst place he could have gone.

How they knew of his escape was a mystery in itself. But reflecting on the situation, he knew it had something to do with him not cleaning up after his own mess. It was possible that was the only thing that tipped him off, rather than the princesses knowing. His guess was proved right when a loud bell was sounded, something he suspected was for waning about escapee’s like himself.

With another string of curses, Cinder Lock picked up his pace, nearly all out running with the controlled mare by his side. He knew that she still could serve as a hostage, and plans to keep her as a bargaining chip.

Turning another corner, cinder Lock stopped at the sight of the outside, but didn't dare go out as he saw something fly by. Not wanting to be spotted, he continued down the hall, searching for a new escape route. This game of mouse trap continued on for another half hour, with each encounter with a guard patrol becoming more and more frequent.

Getting desperate, Cinder Lock searched around himself, looking for anything he could use to his advantage. Preferably something sharp and pointy. He considered using some blood, be it his or his hostages, to make some needle like weapon, but he needed his horn for that. And he didn't want to show he was changeling.

“There he is!” Cinder Lock again cursed and ran, making sure to keep the mare on the side he might be attacked from, using her as a shield. He was going to get out of there, one way or another.

He almost made it to another hall before a yellow magic bubble wrapped itself around both him and the mare, keeping them both contained. Cinder Lock glared at the magical shield, turning around and bucking it to no effect. Around him, a few guards walked up, with one unicorn saying, “Prisoner contained. Somepony stop the alert.”

Looking around himself, the now trapped Cinder Lock considered his options before him, while a still controlled Tidy-Tip cheered inside her mind at the concept of being rescued. Glaring down at the mare, Cinder Lock couldn't help but loth the earth mare’s hope, wanting nothing more then to crush it under-hoof.

For now, the fake pony settled for putting a hoof around the mare's neck in a chock hold, and threatened, “Release me, or else she dies!”

Most of the guard stopped and looked at one another, but did nothing to take up the escapee's threat. One of them, and older guardspony, simply told the contained pegasus, “No, you won't. Or rather you can't, because she's your bargaining chip. I know this game, and I won't let you escape—”

“Get that pony out of there!” A new voice called, making the false pony glance past the guard and stare in shock at the sight of not only Princess Celestia, but a pink alicorn, six changeling commons and three changeling heirs. It was one of the heirs that was shouting, and she continued to do so with, “Hurry up and get her out of there you idiots!”

With all that had happened during that day, the changeling in Cinder Lock’s body finally figured out his cover was blown. He was put in a prison cell for his supposed crimes —that he did do— and was told there was still an ongoing investigation. Now seeing these changelings could only mean they knew what he was, or had a good reason to. It was with these thoughts that he decided to use his hostage. But not as he originally planned.

While the guards were wondering why the changeling mare was trying to give them orders, Cinder Lock quickly changed his form, getting a good taste of the surround shock and surprise. Then, opening his jaws wide, all watched in horror as he clamped down on the neck of the mare next to him.

Tidy-Tip felt the long serrated fangs puncture into her neck, ripping into her throat and cartilage. She could feel the blood both leaking down her breathing tubs and filling her lugs. she could feel a sucking sensation as her blood was forcefully taken out of her body. With a more dizzy head and darkening vision, Tidy-Tip experienced a whole new level of torment as she was killed in front of others in cold blood.

For the changeling, he could feel a rush in his power at absorbing the mare’s own lifeblood, and sapping every ounce of her emotions until he could pull nothing more out. Finished, he let the lifeless body drop to the floor and give a bloody grin to those around him, lighting his horn the same bloody red that stained his fangs.

With a powerful blast that was supercharged from his latest meal, the blood caster broke out of his entrapment and attacked the first pony in sight. The unicorn that was his captor soon found himself being zapped by a stream of the blood-red magic, feeling his body numb up before it started acting on it’s own.

turning around, the changeling shot off two more beams, subjugating two more ponies under his body-bending will and magic. With his horn, the changeling rouge gave voiceless commands to his new puppets, having them attack any that were in their sight, but himself.

Looking over to the two alicorns, the changeling that had been Cinder Lock gained a devious idea, and charging his horn with the most strongest body-control spell he could. With a glint in his blood-like gaze, he sent a thick beam of the magic towards both aliconrs, hopping one would come to the others defense.

What he did not expect was for the changeling mare, who lit her own horn and whipped out a black book form her bags, snapping it open and sending a spell through it. Jumping in front of both Princesses’, she summoned up a hexagon shaped screen, blocking the blood-red beam of magic. When it was over, she flipped a page, showing that the book was made of steel, and the pages like some mechanical array.

Sending a new burst of magic through her selected array, a green sphere of magic formed over the page, shifting and changing to her will quickly before shooting out into a focused beam. Seeing the threat, the blood caster moved, dodging as the thin beam cut cleanly through the wall behind him.

“Thank you, Opulent.” Celestia breathed, surprised at how quickly the changeling heir had moved in on her and her niece's defense.

“Less talking, more magic!” Sham cut in rudely, charging his horn in green magic before it shifted into a sickly yellow. With a flick of his horn, he sent bolt after bolt of his own magic, aiming for the blood caster and those he had captured in his spell.

While the blood Caster continued to evade, those under his influence didn't and got hit. They would then slow or even fall, looking waker and weaker until they just passed out.

Not to be out done and caught, the changeling avoided another magical blast sent his way and headed for one of the downed guard. Without event he slightest remorse, he tore into the downed guard with his sharpened fangs, violently bringing his head up to send blood flying. Lighting his horn, the blood formed into needles of varying sizes before being launched at his foes.

Intrusive and Celestia worked as one, both making a barrier to stop the incoming attack, while Opulent used the same hexagon spell behind theirs, adding an anti-magical quality to it. The needles soon struck, splattering and clinging off the defense that was made.

As soon as it was dropped, Cadence joined in with the attack, now sending her own sky-blue magic to the murderer before her. Sham, joined in with his yellowed magic, hoping to slow the changeling rouge down. Ventral and Iota soon followed, both using the well known changeling fire and stunning spells all changelings knew. Without instruction, Opulent's four rangers opened fire with their own spells of green fire, beams of magic or even blue beams and red fire.

The combined force made the changeling constantly back up and force him to take more lives around himself to even stand a small chance of holding the powerful force off. But when a beach-ball sized pink shielding spell zoomed past his face, the fake Cinder Lock was forced to glance to the side and see a unicorn decorated in purple armor lead what looked to be a battalion down the halls.

Knowing he was beat in every possible way, the blood caster knew if he did not get out of there, he was good as caught, or even dead. It was with this thought that he powered his horn with as much magic as he dared, shooting it over his head and making the ceiling fall in. As the ruble and dust fell, only the changelings were able to tell that the rouge had fled from the area, able to feel some of his unchecked emotions as made his escape.

None of them dared to follow though, as the crumbling ceiling forced them to flee too, else they get crushed under the falling stone. When the dust cleared and things settled, did Celestia look about all the distraction that had been made and said in a loud voice, “Caption Armor, send out an alert to all your guard. We have a dangerous changeling on the lose!”

Turning to Intrusive, Celestia was quick to order, “Intrusive, I need you to get your fellow changelings to start searching for this rouge. Shame was right, if this changeling escapes, who knows what sort of damage he could cause!” Moving past the group from there, Celestia sought out her sister, so she could reevaluate the situation.

---

Celestia let out a depressed sigh as she sat on her thrown, thinking over the events that had not transpired more then an hour back. The whole situation had left her filled with pain and grief over the lives lost, and those of her ponies who might soon lose their lives. And all because of one single changeling. The very thought of the blood caster made the sun monarch screw her eyes close in anger and regret.

Luna too was enraged over the events that had just been told after being woken up, but was more focused on trying to figure out how to track the dangerous changeling rouge. Already she had watched as professor Intrusive order the commons and drones of his clan to start their search as a swarm. The sight was both awing and terrifying, seeing and hearing the buzzing swarm zealously take to their task.

Glancing over to her sister, Luna could see the pain in her sisters posture, the regret for not being ready enough or having some secrete plan in place like always. “Sister,” She called over to the other alicorn, “Do not feel guilty over this. We were not aware of the threat and caught off guard. Thou— you can not take the blame which none of us could have prepared for.”

Casting a pain filled gaze towards her sister, Celestia said, “I know sister, but the fact remains. More than seventeen of my guard —of my subjects— have just been slaughtered in cold blood!” The very thought tormented her in some way, knowing she failed do do what she had done for so long. Protect her subjects from any and all harm. To see one changeling be able to topple which she had thought perfected in terms of defense…

“You forget that both our guard knew the risks when joining.” Luna was quick to keep her sister’s thoughts from wandering, “Even if they are not equipped to handle such a threat, they stood their ground and did their duty.” It was a hard truth, one she knew her sister didn’t like to think about.

With clenched teeth, Celestia said in a lowly tone, “That is the problem Luna, our guard are not equipped to handle this sort of problem.” Pulling her wings close to her body as if to physically hold back her inner rage, “The changelings have changed so drastically since we first fought them. And they fight like no other nation we know.”

Celestia seemed to sag in her seat, almost looking much older as she told her sister, “The only ones who know anything about suitability in a fight are your lunar guard, and the diamond dogs. Yet they do not have the same skills as the changelings have shown, able to evade even each other if need be. We don't have anything that can truly trump this!” Almost raising her voice to be shouting.

Hearing the sound of somepony clearing their throats, both sisters looked over to where a forgotten now stood. Cadence, Shinning Armor, Iota, Ventral, Intrusive, Sham, Opulent and the four rangers stood, waiting to be noticed after sneaking in. Each one seems to stare on at the two rulers for a time before Intrusive spoke up, “If I may, your highness, you do have one thing to use against changeling threats.”

Feeling the interest spark in them, Opulent stepped forward telling mostly to Celestia, “You have us. The Quasi clan, the Lue clan and the Gem clan. We have your needed weapons and resources to combat any changeling threat.” Thinking back to when they all fought as one to fight the rouge.

Shaking her head, Luna said, “We… as in my sister and I, do not think that would work. You all are busy with maintaining thy own clans, and do not trust the other. How would any of ye help us, when most of thee are so distant in both land and trust?” Trying to be realistic that getting the needed changelings to do any task would take a few days to arrive. That was not including if they would even play nice with any that they might need to work with.

Intrusive took the stage next, telling the two alicorns, “Not necessarily, your highness. As allies, it is part of our duty, if not our obligation, that you remain safe and remain allies.” Walking forwards to keep attention all on him, he continued, “It is with this reasoning, that we have a tradition among ourselves. When clans want to ally, and stay that way without feeling the other plotting to destroy the other, we would exchange our kinsmen with the others.”

Coming to a stop in the center of the room, Intrusive gave a pleased smile as he said, “It is from this that I prepose this to you. Take some of our own clansmen, and turn them into a guard for your use. In turn, you would send some of your guard in equal numbers to our clans, as per tradition.”

All the ponies seems surprised by this idea, and wondered why the elder changeling would suggest such an idea. They were further surprised when Opulent stepped next to the elder, saying, “I am with the honored Elder. The Quasi clan would also do this on your behalf. You both have helped secure food for my people. This is how I chose to repay your aid.”

Stretching his neck around some, Sham absently told the two royals, “Same here. Take some of my own changeling to help out. If you help keep an eye on them, the’ll work as a group.” While also thinking, because I don’t feel like all the extra work is something these ponies can deal with. Too much trouble doing it myself.

“We want to help too!” The sudden voice made all heads turn to Iota, who almost sunk back at being stared at. She shyly scuffed at the floor, a little intimidated at all the intensive stares sent her way.

Keeping close to her clan sister, Ventral continued for her sister, “I’m with Iota. You all have been nothing but kind to us, even when we were labeled as your enemies.” Sending the most briefest of glances to Quasi changeling, “But I think I speak for both of us when I say that we would join you in this.” Looking away from the group adding, “With how Sardonic has treated us, I think my own kin would come and aid you.”

After that, Celestia and Luna sent a look at the other, trying to convey their thoughts to the other. After waiting for what seemed like an hours, Luna gave a nod to her sister, being self-assured of her decision. It was with that Celestia straighten up and said, “We accept your proposal Intrusive. It is with past plans that these changelings be under the command of my sister, Princess Luna, as she will be best practiced in utilizing your skills.”

Following up with her sister, Luna said, “If thee approve of our leadership, we shall vow to not abuse your abilities or thy trust.” Looking over the changelings in front of her saying, “It is with this decision that a new guard shalt be created. One that hides in the shadows, and watches from sidelines.”

“Like a shadow guard?” Iota spoke up rather suddenly.

Ventral was quick to swat the younger scout and scold lightly, “Iota, we don't interrupt a ruler of a nation when they are talking.”

Despite the slight interruption, Luna could not help but smile, “Shadow guard. That would be rather appropriate…”

---

A few days later, the blood caster found himself dragging his body into a cave, tiered and weak from his escape. In no way was it a perfect one, having to avoid the solar and lunar guards, as well as a huge swarm of changelings that had found him one too many times.

But I escaped. He smirked to himself, saying out loud, “I escaped and showed that I’m still on-top!” Chuckling a little madly at the end. There was no illusion to himself that his feeding on fear made his mind less than sane. But for him, it was a fine trade off for the power.

So busy was he laughing, did the changeling not notice the grey pegasus with a slick black mane walk into the cave silently and look down at the weak and tiered changeling. With the smallest of sneers, he said, “So, you’re still alive, Ruse.” Making the common blood caster freeze in place.

Looking to the cave entrance, the identified Ruse stared back at the shadowed pony, whom had one green eye and one blue eye. Though being different in color, both held nothing but utter disappointment as the pegasus stallion said, “And I see you failed in your task…” Tasking to himself adding, “This will complicate things you know, since it means the elements are still a threat.”

Gulping where he laid, Ruse stuttered out, “I-I…well…that is…” Before letting out a breath admitting, “I have no idea what went wrong…”

Taking a sharp breath, the mystery stallion curtly said, “Vexing.” Thinking for a moment before asking, “At least confirm that the elements are in Ponyville, and that nopony watches over them. We can try another attempt to take one of them again.” Putting a hoof to his temples.

Thinking on it, Ruse said, “I didn't see any guards, but somepony knew about me and knocked me out. They also found out I was changeling after I was able to escape, but before before they even saw me change—”

“Meaning somepony found your base of operations, in all likely-hood.” The pegasus finished for the blood caster. Looking over the banged up changeling common, the pegasus snorted and said, “I’ll send for company to pick you up and bring you back with me. Your still alive, I’m sure you’ll still have some use.”

Comments

[tvo770]

So casters blood basically vampires and we have one on the loose fantastic

[Devildogg20]

5844802 where there's one, there's more

[Light Ascend]

While the guards were wondering why the changeling mare was trying to give them orders, Cinder Lock quickly changed his form, getting a good taste of the surround shock and surprise. Then, opening his jaws wide, all watched in horror as he clamped down on the neck of the mare next to him.

Let me speak it out.

Those guard are [redacted] [redacted].