> Cowcolts and Changelings
>  by Grazy Polomare
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue: Once a Changeling Always a Changeling
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

KA-BOOM! SPLAT!

Why do cannons always target me! Morpheus thought angrily as he was being chased down the road, avoiding the occasional pie that nearly diminished the lone changeling. The small wooden buildings seemed to cringe as the desert wind blew through their worn down windows and doors. Dodge Junction sure was the last place Morpheus wanted to be in.

I need to get the Tartarus out of Dodge Morpheus thought humorously before another blast whizzed past him and the grisly, mushy remains of an apple pie plastered the old wooden door two feet away from him. Turning the corner, he sped past a group of ponies, only that their faces were obscured by oat bags hung over their head. The dark holes for the eyes only made him cringe, their empty appearance like some sort of demonic monster, who was wielding a pitchfork in anticipation. 

“Freeze!” was all they got to say before the changeling fired three paralysis spells in response. The bodies crumpled to the dusty dirt road as he turned into an alleyway. Sticking close to the wall, he could make out a large, nebulous shadow that slowly inched its way across the street. They moved in unison, their heads like the great eyes of a beast, shifting here and there as if it had lost something very dear to them.

How the buck did it end up like this? Morpheus thought to himself as he slipped out of the alleyway and into another street. Around him, the houses were burning and the local general store was missing…well…the front porch and adjacent wall. Steadily moving forward, he could make out various objects scattered among the dirt. Watches, purses, and lots of tomatoes.  

“Hey bug-brain, over here!” A voice hissed. Morpheus turned to see another jet-black changeling motioning for him to take cover in an abandoned wagon. The wagon was in good shape, and had a carrot insignia occupying its side, with the words scrawled under it reading "Rose and Co." Relief flooded him like wildfire as he dashed towards the cart. Climbing into the back, Morpheus gave the changeling a quick hoof-bump. “Reflect, I thought I’d never see you again.”

The usually grumpy changeling smiled, “I knew it would take more then a couple of angry cowponies to bring you down Morpheus.” Looking over each other, both changelings noticed various scars over their carapaces and dirt smudged over their snouts. Truly it had been a long day since their arrival in this harmony-forsaken watering hole. 

"But I also thought you'd make it out of Dodge Morphy," Reflect uttered with a sad smile, "did you at least make it to the stagecoach?"

“No such luck,” Morpheus sighed, “and I didn’t expect to find you here either.” Reflect shrugged and patted the cart with his right hoof. “This old beast saved me a good beating. It looks like we’re the only ones left.”

“In Equestria?” Morpheus nearly shouted in surprise before Reflect gagged him with a hoof. 

“No,” Reflect explained irritably, “I mean in the bucking town you queer. Anyone with half a mind would have gotten out when the going was still good. Heck, I would have gotten out too until well…scat happened.”

“You’d think after making a peace arrangement there would be some sort of gap in time before this town went up in flames,” Morpheus whispered, "I mean, Chrysalis made an entire speech about how we ain't that bad under the shell and all."

“And then we decided to go here,” Reflect chided. “which was a terrible idea from the start! And look at how far that speech got us: two idiots stuck in the middle of the biggest mess since the Crystal Empire! Now what are we gonna do?”

Before Morpheus could answer that the cart suddenly tipped over, causing both changelings to collide with the wooden side. There was a mighty crash and both Reflect and Morpheus were momentarily stunned. The two however managed to hastily crawl out, only to be met by the glow of a dozen or so torches. And behind those torches, were a dozen or so oat bags, all with little slits that revealed the vicious stares beneath.

“Well look what we have ‘ere,” a southern accent snidely commented, “it’s two of them shape shifters. Too bad they didn’t try to hide earlier.”

Morpheus could count at least two dozen or more adversaries surrounding them. Even if he and Reflect could make it out, there was no telling how many more were behind the mob. They were cornered and had nowhere to go. As the crowd inched ever closer, Morpheus could feel the sweat drip off his carpace like a diamond dog who found the motherload. Morpheus and Reflect went back to back, their horns glowing in anticipation. 

Well this sucks.


A lot LOT earlier


Another terrible day at the office Morpheus thought bitterly. The harsh wind threw dust into the changeling’s eyes, causing him to temporarily drop his spear in an effort to relieve him of the irritating specks of dust that managed to stick to the honeycomb-like compounds that formed his retina. The desert was just as boring as it was yesterday, a lone tumbleweed sluggishly making its way across the dusty plains that, at one time, was part of a fertile valley. 

Usually, in the day it would be an arid landscape of scorching sands and mirages that affected the common traveler greatly. But in the night, the temperature dropped so far down that you’d expect to see snow any second. However, Morpheus knew better and simply shook his hole-covered hooves in order to warm up his carapace. As he stared down the valley, he noticed a small silhouette make its way across the plain. Clutching the tiny spear in his hooves, Morpheus sucked his breath in, waiting for the worse to happen.

As the nebulous shape approached the large ebony entrance to the Hive, it sprouted four legs. Another gust of wind revealed the dark fabric of a cloak. As the stranger came closer, it was apparent that the cloak was meant to cover the entire body, making the wearer imitate a shadow. Morpheus only clutched the metal spear harder.

“Halt! Who goes there!?”

The stranger didn’t give any initial reply, continuing its silent march towards the gate. Morpheus could feel sweat secreting off his shell and onto the ground, his eyes looking back and forth for backup. 

Deciding that the stranger didn’t hear him correctly, he repeated his command. “Halt! I say again who are you?”

Once more the stranger didn’t respond, only advancing upon his position. He could now hear the stranger muttering something under its breath; ignorant of the destination it was currently heading towards.

“Sto-stop right there,” the changeling held his spear in defensive position, his wings flared out in case he needed to run, “I-I will use this spear! I swear! Oh of all days I get assigned guard duty! JUST. PLEASE. STOP!”

The figure froze, the hood still covering the face as it slowly rose up. Morpheus gulped down the saliva forming in his mouth. Come on Morpheus, at least he’s compliant. 

“Who are you?”

The stranger’s voice was so deep and serpent like it made the guard cringe. “Who am I? Who am I? Why, I’d thought the rumors had reached you by now…”

Morpheus nearly fell over, his heart pumping vigorously. “Wha-what do you mean?”

BOOM!

The changeling screamed as bright sparks of flame erupted from the stranger’s cloak, causing the changeling to back away in horror, tripping over the gate and onto a stack of…pillows?

“What…” the changeling reached over to examine the oddly place cart of pillows that had softened his fall, “why which idiot placed pillows on-“

He stopped, noticing that the bright red flames were in fact red confetti. Using his wings to fly up to his post, he came face to face with the stranger.

“SURPRISE!” 

“AHHHHH!!!” Morpheus jumped back, balancing himself less he fell off again. Once his hooves were securely planted on the wall, he darted his eyes to the figure.

“Who the-“

“PINKIE PIE!” the pink mare screamed as she literally tore through her cloak. Morpheus fell back, his previous efforts in vain as he landed carapace first onto the dusty ground. 

“YOU!” he screamed as the prancing pony bounced up and down, apparently with no hint of getting weary. Morpheus shook his head, deciding that there was no reason in trying to explain why or what this thing was. Grumbling to himself, he shook the dust from his hooves, scanning the perimeter for his spear.

“This is changeling territory… how can I be of assistance?” he held the “s” with a hiss, a common sign that changelings understood as frustration. However, to an outsider, it would be dismissed as a simple slip of the Equestrian tongue.

“Oh,” Pinkie Pie stopped to think,” well I guess I wanted to visit Matchie and-“

Morpheus facehoofed himself, realizing that the Element of Laughter was here to pick up her best friend and scout drone Mirror, or Mirror Match as she was now known. Well not like Morpheus Bloom is a great name either…

“SSo Ssorry,” Morpheus hissed, “she’s busy with…uhhhh…”

The mare narrowed her eyes, causing a bead of sweat to form on the side of Morpheus’ snout as his eyes darted back and forth, searching for an excuse. “She’s uhhh…tending to the maintenance crew…yeah that’s it!” He still recalled his prank with the party cannon that caused Mirror to crash into the infirmary wall. That was hilarious! Even if it landed him a week of timeout from his office.

Pinkie didn’t even flinch; her snout now only inches away from his. Morpheus wished he had picked up his spear, for his legs were now shaking uncontrollably. The tiny breeze that had managed to blow ceased instantaneously, causing the changeling to give an involuntary shudder. 

“Oki Doki Loki!” the mare’s eyes lit up as suddenly as they had slanted. Morpheus nearly breathed a sigh of relief. “Well now if you’ll excuse me I have a-“

“It’s too bad,” Pinkie interrupted, “Me and Fluttershy got invitations to a book club and we wanted to get there early to buy Matchie a ticket. She really does love Daring Do-“

Morpheus’ eyes widened before he grabbed the mare by the shoulders. “Did you say…THE ONE AND ONLY DARING DO!?” His voice was on the edge of hysteria.

“Yeah,” Pinkie giggled, “Matchie was going to be Daring Do and sort of liven up the place. I know Rustle Glow would have loved to see an exact copy of everypony’s favorite explorative-dungeon dwelling archeologist.”

“Well,” Morpheus elicited, “perhaps I could check up on Mirror, but even then Mirror would need permission by the Queen to venture outside after dark and only with a guard so…”

“Did you want to come to?” Pinkie tilted her head, a grin spreading over he snout, “Because that would be super cool! Two changelings in a book club? Who ever heard of that? It would be so much fun and then Gummy would have another playmate afterwards-“

“Ok, ok,” Morpheus interrupted, “because you are so desperate to have my company, I shall grant it-“

Pinkie squinted her eyes, confused at his statement. “But I thought you want-“

“Nah ah ah,” Morpheus raised his hoof, “I recall perfectly well that I was merely restating the protocol…you were the one who suggested I accompany you on this little shindig.”

“I-well…” Pinkie thought about it for a second before dismissing it and resuming her hop. “Oki Doki then, let’s get Mirror and party!”

“With pleasure,” Morpheus said slyly, flying over to the tiny cave entrance to the side. Just as he was about to open the hatch, the wooden door swung open and collided with Morpheus’ cranium, sending the changeling on a trajectory to the ground. “Sorry Commander I was running late and…”

“Ugh,” Morpheus rubbed his head, “watch out next time idiot, where were you anyway?”

The changeling tensed a bit, but proceeded to explain a long story involving a drone, an elite squad member, and the last piece of pie that Double brought from Ponyville. Morpheus only gave the sentry a doubtful glance, before getting back on his hooves. “Just fetch Mirror Match. Tell her the Element of Laughter requests her presence.”

The sentry raised his hoof, about to question his commander when he thought better and went back inside. Morpheus gave a sigh and turned to see Pinkie still bouncing up and down. “Is Matchie coming out yet?”

“In a bit…” Morpheus shrugged, rubbing his horn to make sure it wasn’t damaged, and “she’s getting ready. Perhaps you can shed a little light on where exactly we’re going?”

“Well,” the pink mare mused, scratching her chin, “I suppose it’s just like any other book club meeting. A bunch of fans get together in Twilights library, talk about a book, and have a BIG PARTY AFTERWARDS!”

Morpheus only gave an approving nod, now wondering if Mirror truly was busy. Or if the sentry he sent got into another “hold up”. As he waited, he noticed that Pinkie Pie had resumed her steady pattern of bouncing up and down on the same patch of turf. 

The pink pony seemed totally oblivious to the outside world, and yet, when asked, she could easily answer what was happening. She was truly one of the oddballs of Equestria. 

“You read Daring Do huh?” Pinkie asked cheerfully, her mane in perpetual motion, “Well I guess you must be since you seem so eager to go on this trip with us!”

If only you knew…Morpheus thought enviously. He was an avid reader of Daring Do and her chronicles. Ever since he had stumbled upon the books, he had managed to grab hold of as many copies as the Queen allowed. Now with the changeling-pony peace established, it was only a tad easier to buy a book.

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He remembered his first visit to the bookstore after the peace was announced. He and a royal guard called Star Wing were heading over to a well-known establishment that specialized in selling the cherished novels of his hatchling years. Star Wing, his only real friend of the Equestrian nation, was excited about introducing his favorite hangout. However, upon their entrance, the shopkeeper slanted his eyes. Unaffected by this show of suspicion, Morpheus quickly picked up several new copies, looking over the prices and giving a satisfying humph when he confirmed he had brought an adequate amount to pay for his purchases. The shopkeeper, on the other hoof, was less then enthusiastic. Upon ringing each book in, he charged double what they were worth. 

“What gives?” the changeling growled, “it says they are 25% off and you are charging double the full price!”

“Yeah,” the shopkeeper replied coldly, “it is 25% off…for ponies.”

It took all of Star Wing’s power to hold the changeling back before he lunged at the clerk, his mouth hurling insult after insult as the embarrassed stallion dragged his friend away. When they had steered clear of the shop, the guard dragged Morpheus into an alley before releasing his hold on the furious changeling.

“What’s wrong with you?” Star Wing scolded.

“What’s wrong with me,” Morpheus answered sarcastically,” perhaps you’d like to explain why we’re supposedly at peace when a shopkeeper thinks it’s okay to be a racist peace of scat!”

“He hasn’t adjusted,” Star Wing said softly,” he’s just not use to this new peace that’s all. But he will get use to changelings, I promise. I mean you just need to take the first step.”

Morpheus tilted his head, “First step?”

Star Wing sighed, his head gazing at the stars for some source of knowledge to explain his reasoning to a changeling. After realizing it was of no use, he began to formulate his own explanation. “Well, you know, you need to be the first one to wave the flag. The guy who tries to initiate the terms so to speak…”

Morpheus threw a doubtful glance at the stallion. “I’ve been trying to make peace with these fools for the last day or so! You don’t think I try everyday to be as cordial as possible?”

“Well you initiated a fight-“ Star Wing remarked.

“That may be true.” Morpheus nudged the stallion as he walked out of the alley before turning back to face the pegasus. “But still the only pony I’ve made friends with this past day or so is you.”

Apart from Star Wing, most of the royal guards stationed in the Ponyville Jail were also on good terms with Morpheus. However, the rest of the population still saw him as what he was: a former enemy of Equestria. A changeling who stole love. A monster that was talked about in ghost stories to spook little foals into behaving. His own previous experiences of getting chased out of towns didn’t help him adjust either. He still held the mentality that many of these ponies he was supposed to call friends had partaken in various mobs against him. 

Yet, the Queen urged that it was better to face a few air-borne tomatoes than returning to their status of isolation in the Badlands. At least most changelings were smart enough to don a disguise or use their own mentally concocted pony forms. Morpheus saw it as a waste of energy, and preferred to walk “naked” in public, although he couldn’t think of a reason to be ashamed of his true form, especially since they were under peaceful times. 

Sure enough, he was the target for many of the changeling haters. But he was used to it, and to be frank, he really hated some of those ponies anyhow. Snobbish, blind to the outside world, and utterly prejudice to griffins, donkeys, zebras, and anything else that wasn’t a part of Equestria. They were no better than hypocrites, proclaiming the desire to spread love and peace when they couldn’t accept the new immigrants who tried to make a living. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------
“Pinkie!”

“Matchie!”

The two galloped at full speed when the sentry finally brought Mirror out. Morpheus only released a yawn he had been holding for the remainder of his quiet stare down with Pinkie Pie. 

The embrace between pony and changeling made Morpheus cringe. He still wasn’t use to it. Heck, he was sure nobody was use to it, or was it nopony as they said? He didn’t care much for Equestrian tongue. Like its population, the language of Equestria was selective and prejudice. Everypony. Anypony. Somepony. Common tongue, which is similar to Equestrian tongue, was much more accepting of other species, using someone, anyone, and everyone. The difference was subtle, yet irritating for the changeling. Ponies are so self-centered with themselves Morpheus thought coldly.

“So Matchie,” Pinkie began cheerfully, “I hope you don’t mind us bringing one of your friends over…”

“Friends…” Mirror turned to regard Morpheus with a quizzical expression. Morpheus returned the stare with a telepathic message. Just go with it, and it’ll be a lot easier to explain later.

Let me guess… Mirror replied on the Hive Chat. You read Daring Do? Morpheus had to grin at the changeling, for the mere mention of the title always made him smile. Mirror returned the expression with her own smile, nodding her head in understanding.

“Yep!” Mirror replied, “let’s get going!”

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“So what’s your name?” Pinkie asked, her eyes nearly colliding with the changeling’s. Morpheus only gave an irritated growl before replying. “Morpheus-“

“That’s a wonderful name!” Pinkie leaped in the air, “would you mind if I called you Morphy?”

You’re not the first Morpheus thought irritably. “Sure ummm...Pinkie Pie.” He had momentarily forgotten the Element of Laughter’s name but only for a moment. They were making good time too, as Pinkie had brought an odd contraption of sorts to help her fly. It looked like two candy canes and other delectable treats formed into a bicycle without wheels, and then fitted with a propeller. Needless to say it pecked the changeling’s curiosity.

“How did you come up with that…device of yours?”

“What?” Pinkie tilted her head in confusion, “Oh this thing? IT’S my Super Awesome Flying Machine! I read one of Twilight’s books and just got the idea ‘Hey! If I can fly, I can be with Rainbow Dash and do all sorts of pranks!”

“Pranks?” Morpheus almost shouted, “what kind of pranks?” 

“Well…” Pinkie pondered for a moment, “Vertical Pie Dropping was my first idea, but then I thought that I could do better than that so I tried raining fake spiders and…oh… there was this one prank that involved Gummy and my trombone-“

“That’s enough Pinkie,” Mirror interjected before Pinkie went into a long talk about the various pranks that could be performed airborne. She threw Morpheus a menacing stare. He shrugged in response, wishing that she’d let the mare continue with her rant and lead him to valuable insight into future traps for the hive. 

So far, my order hasn’t come in yet, but it’s sure going to be fun when I get it set up! Why didn’t anyone ever think about fireworks in the first place? It’s just as effective as the marble avalanche! Can’t wait to test it out on Shift.

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The trio had finally reached the cottage of Fluttershy, situated in between the town of Ponyville and the misty Everfree Forest. The creek that passed over the little bridge leading to the house almost looked like solid platinum. The grass around it appeared to be covered in snow. The moon was particularly bright tonight. The cottage itself was quite quaint; its rather simple design fitted with a unique roof composed of tree leaves. Morpheus could also make out a hen house, and wondered if Fluttershy’s specialty was farming. Wouldn't be surprised if it was just crops though, poor thing can't harm a fly let alone a chicken egg. Then again, ponies were vegetarians and changelings, although sufficing on love, were more fond of fruits and certain meats, although not as open to the idea of becoming carnivores as the griffins were. Even the Diamond Dogs had less quarrel with eating meat then a hungry griffin, but changelings never needed it unless they had to blend in. 

Knocking on the door, the Pinkie and Mirror began to converse about their day while Morpheus went around the back to examine the pegasus' cottage. It looked quite roomy, and the changeling had to wonder how his fellow sibling Mirror managed to land in such a welcoming environment. The garden was well kept, with petunias, roses, daisies, and various tropical plants growing together as if mother nature had intended it herself. Large birdhouses dotted the few trees surrounding the cottage, and Morpheus could hear the audible snores of dozens of different species. 

"I didn't even know trees could look so comfortable," the changeling mused to himself, absorbing the scenery, "and yet feel so painful. Well, I supposed landing on anything isn't the most pleasant experience." Mirror had broken her horn, a few changelings had broken their wings. He was fairly sure that the fact he had landed safely after the Canterlot invasion was a blessing in disguise. As he rounded back, he could hear three distinct voices arguing amongst each other.

"I can't go," came the muffled reply from Fluttershy.

"Oh Fluttershy," Pinkie seemed to hug the door as if it were her friend, "you just have to come, Matchie and me were planning this for a week already!"

"I know," the door seemed to speak, "but Angel is ill and I simply can't go."

Mirror looked equally upset, her adopted pegasus form staring at a puddle as Morpheus came up from behind. The sight of both pony and changeling standing side by side seemed humorous to him, but he knew better. "What's on your mind Matchie?"

Mirror turned to stare in surprise at her sibling's sudden usage of her adopted name. "Uh no-nothing," she stammered, "just that Fluttershy isn't coming with us." Morpheus turned to see the Element of Harmony practically cooing the door into opening."She already bought a pass to the book club?"

Mirror nodded solemnly, causing Morpheus to grin. "Well then why don't I just take up her form and get a free ride into the book club?"

The changeling gasped in shock at Morpheus' suggestion. "Morpheus, you can't just impony-sonate some mare just to get a-"

"That sounds like a great idea!" Pinkie suddenly sprouted from the water. Both changelings jumped back, landing on their backs at the sudden ambush. "Morphy can take Fluttershy's place, and if anypony asks, I'll just tell them that Fluttersy gave him permission to use the form!" The pink mare rushed back to the door to explain the plan to Fluttershy.

"Well..." Mirror still felt unsure at this little charade. It wasn't exactly the brightest plan under the circumstances, concerning their race. Morpheus, on the other hoof, was already beaming at her. "We're changelings Mirror, trust me I've done this a million times!"

"And you've been caught a million times, "Mirror stated bluntly, "this is a bad idea and you know it!"

Morpheus shrugged his hooves, before disappearing in a flash of green flame. The next instant, he was a yellow pegasus with a bright pink mane and timid green eyes. "After all, I have an Element of Harmony backing me up."

To hear her friend's voice made Mirror cringe. Somehow, it felt wrong to deceive ponies so easily despite what's happened. But at the same time, one less changeling could keep the crowd at bay for the evening.

"Okay," Pinkie trotted back to the group, "Fluttershy is fine with it, I'm fine with it, and Mirror, you're-"

"Fine." Mirror scowled but managed a small smile. "Let's get going then?"

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Twilight's library was still as lively as it had been before the invasion. Already a line of ponies could be seen leading into the warm illumination provided in the interior of the hollowed out tree. As the trio waited, Morpheus began to talk with Pinkie about several of his own pranks, with Pinkie adding her own input.

"Well," the pink mare explained, "fireworks are super cool, but they can be dangerous when used in excess, Morphy."

"That's why we're experimenting," Morpheus explained, "Shift is a tough changeling and so if it fails, nothing bad should happen right?"

"But don't you have a dummy?" Pinkie asked, creating a vague outline of a pony with her hooves. "Me and Rainbow Dash always practice with a dummy before trying the real thing. Like a flour bag or something?"

Morpheus sighed, "Pinkie, there isn't a whole lot I can work with. We don't have flour bags and rocks can withstand pretty much anything. The closest thing we could use would be Mr. Smartypants and everyone knows Double would kill a changeling just for looking at it."

"But if nothing bad happens," 	Pinkie emphasized with her hooves, "then Double won't notice it was ever taken in the first place!"

"That's true!" Morpheus exclaimed in the soft, timid voice of Fluttershy. Morpheus would have to wait until a dummy was used, and after that was successful, then he could try it out on Shift. 

As the line reached the library entrance, Morpheus once again felt a tinge of jealousy that a changeling was able to land here and not in some forsaken dungeon in the middle of Ponyville. Yet, he was content with his current position, and his cozy office. On top of that, he was experimenting with a new gender form, something that took practice to achieve. 

As the trio reached the line, they were greeted by the purple unicorn known as Twilight Sparkle. "Fluttershy! Pinkie! Matchie! So good of you to join us!"

"Thrilled to be here," Morpheus said in a sly voice, " you do have food right?"

Twilight gave Fluttershy a quizzical stare, but one glance at Pinkie Pie made her wink in confirmation. "Yeah, 'Fluttershy', just down there on the table. She indicated towards a mahogany table filled with various dishes of treats. From his vantage point, Morpheus could see steaming chocolate chip cookies, various cakes of various colors, an array of pop soda, a chocolate fountain, and choco-watermelon cupcakes! I'm in paradise! Morpheus thought as his mouth began to drool.

Diving right in, Morpheus began to stuff his mouth with food. The sweet intoxication almost knocked him out too, but he was able to hold out. It was by far the most amazing experience he had ever had the pleasure of eating in Ponyville. Despite whatever he had thought about ponies, he could not deny their culinary genius. As he munched on random delectables, various ponies began to give the disguised changeling odd looks and one stallion even went out of his way to ask if "she" was alright.

"Oh yes," Morpheus replied, "just famished is all." And with that, a loud burp erupted from his bowels, causing several nearby ponies to gag. Morpheus shuffled his hooves, blushing in embarrassment. "Excuse me," he whispered as he went back to accompany Mirror and Pinkie Pie, who were deep in conversation with a brown unicorn colt. He was wearing a scarf and glasses, which made him look like he was ready for winter.

At the moment, Mirror had switched to her Daring Do form, much to the delight of the stallion as he was jumping up and down, examining the changeling from snout to hoof. With a gentle nudge at Pinkie Pie, Morpheus whispered, "Who's that?"

"Him?" Pinkie yelled over the noise, "he's Rustle Glow, the leader of tonight's super-fun book talk!"

The brown stallion was still inspecting Daring Do, his eyes widened in awe. "It's just as I had imagined it so! I don't believe it! I had no idea you could envision your own form based on a few illustrations!"

Mirror was blushing under the stallion's gaze, causing Morpheus to narrow his eyes in concern of his fellow sibling. But before he could attempt to converse with the unicorn himself he felt a sudden push from Pinkie Pie, who was indicating him to a nearby chair.Standing on the second floor bedroom, Twilight adressed the crowd.

"Let's all get started then shall we?" 


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"So as I was saying," Rustle orated from his seat, "I feel that Daring Do's latest escapade could have been done a little better. After all, it isn't like we're little colts and fillies. We're full-grown mares and stallions with expectations that should be met!"

There were several cheers from the group, including Morpheus, who had noticed a similar pattern in the later novels. As he scanned the perimeter, an old changeling habit, he noticed a brown stallion with a dark brown mane and moustache observing Mirror Match with a scowl.

"Who's that," Morpheus nudged the pony next to him, a light green mare. The mare seemed to stare at him for a second, as if wondering why Fluttershy was being so assertive all of a sudden. "That's Spatchcock, remember? He's one of those anti-changeling members."

Morpheus eyed the stallion cautiously, aware now that there were several anti-changeling members in the audience. Hopefully, if he played it cool, all would turn out well and he wouldn't need to worry about getting chased out like last time.

"However, the book's villain characters lack, well, density I'm afraid." Rustle Glow sat down, leaving the conversation open for whoever wanted to jump in. Immediately, a blue colt stood up. 

"I think Glow is right, the villains need some work. I mean, Dr. Feather Rico was too cliche in both his methods and origins. We need villains who have more background or at least have superb gadgetry to go against Daring Do's skills. I mean, the mare practically gets by the same situation in every story. And the bad guys never seem to learn!"

There were more murmurs of agreement from the group, some ponies nodding their heads in unison. A few stood up and shared similar experiences. Even Morpheus himself, got up and explained his own personal quarrel with the villains. 

"-I feel that they just need to make them more realistic!" he proclaimed, "They aren't necessarily evil, just misunderstood by society. We need to to see these characters just like we see Daring Do. With their own problems and needs and concerns!"

Several faces were alarmed at "Fluttershy's" interjection, but were impressed none the less at the speech. There was a round of applause from the moved group of fans. They all felt that the discussion had reached its climax, and were ready to begin the next discussion when a gruff voice spoke up.

"Except that some real-life villains should be recognized as evil."

Several heads turned to Spatchcock, who got up from his chair, a scowl plastered on his face. "We think they're misunderstood? Do you think she's misunderstood? Why, because their so-called leader wants to play kiss-butt to their prey? I'd think we'd be a bit smarter than that!"

The room was dead quiet, until Rustle tentatively raised a hoof. "And who," he motioned around the room, "is the real-life villain we should be wary of?"

Spatchcock seemed to glower at the colt's rather inane question. "Who? Why the damn changelings of course!" 

There were several outcries and gasps as faces now turned to face Mirror Match, still disguised in her Daring Do form. Morpheus could see that some eyes were gentle while others regarded his friend harshly. Spatchcock, with a smug look plastered over his face, trotted over to the changeling, eyeing her as he continued.

"You see, these changelings are just trying to lick their wounds. Look at this!" he motioned at the perfect copy of Daring Do. "This is a perfect replica of Daring Do, and why would she go through all the trouble?"

"To just make some fans happy!" A voice retorted.

"No!" Spatchcock growled, "to make us think she had our best intentions at heart! And here we are, imagining the last hundred or so years of changelings didn't happen! Don't any of you remember the forests? The ones who escaped the hive or even the not so long-ago siege on our capital? Which was shortly followed by another attack on this very soil!"


Spathcock stared at Mirror with an icy hatred that instinctively caused Morpheus to stand. He didn't like this stallion for the very reason he remembered why he loathed ponies. Ignorant, and snobbish. But Spatchcock was not paying him any attention, simply focusing all his hatred on the only scapegoat in the room."Why, she's nothing more then another love-stealing parasite! A thief!"

"Take that back love-sucker!"

Spatchcock did a double take before he turned around to face the only other standing equine in the group. His face immediately morphed from anger to confusion. "Fluttershy? What the-"

"I said take it back!" Morpheus shouted once more from his disguised form. In the background, Mirror was sweating profusely, the realization sinking in that this night had just taken a turn for the worse.

"Fluttershy, that changeling over there is nothin' more then another monster! Some deranged, cold, calculating monster that just wants to use us for its own benefit!"

"That 'monster' is ten times better then you bucko!"

There were more startled gasps as ponies slowly got up from their chairs, while others who were sleeping woke with a start. Spatchcock, however, didn't even flinch. In fact, a small grin spread over his face.

"Yeah, Fluttershy, I guess your right..."

Several ponies sighed in relief, including Rustle Glow.

"...she may not be like me..."

Suddenly, before anypony could do anything, Spatchcock fired a bright purple bolt of magic that hit Fluttershy square in the chest, sending her flying into a set of bookshelves whose contents collapsed over her frail body just as a green flash shined through the rubble.

"...but she's definitely like you..."

There were screams and shouts as several ponies made their way to tackle Spatchcock for attacking a harmless mare. "Check on her before you tackle me!" the unicorn shouted as several stallions grabbed his hoof. Acknowledging the unicorn's command, one colt dug through the books to find a...

"CHANGELING!?"

Morpheus was seeing stars after being knocked out by the spell. As soon as he got up, he could see several shocked and angry faces. Where have I seen this before? 

Pinkie immediately rushed to the changeling's aid, along with Mirror, who stood back to back with the Element of Harmony. "Stay back! He's with us!"

Several ponies didn't look convinced. "Why was he disguised as Fluttershy?" a voice cried out. There were several murmurs of agreement from the crowd, who even now had released their grip on Spatchcock."See," the stallion proclaimed, "this pony is a fraud! Even now they tried to deceive us! And the Elements of Harmony aren't going to stop them! So who will?"

Once again, there was silence. Nopony knew what to make of the events that had just unfolded before them. Would the Elements of Harmony protect them? Or was Spatchcock starting to sound a little too logical?

Before any of them could answer it in their own head, Morpheus managed to get on his hooves, his blue eyes bright with fury. "I'm ssssick of these mother-buckin' poniessss with thessse mother-bucking theoriesssss..."he hissed. And with that, he fired a bright blue bolt of energy that slammed into Spatchcock's chest, sending the stallion into the opposite bookshelf. 

Pushing past his protective wall of friends, Morpheus stood his ground, wincing every so often as Spatchcock got to this hooves. The stallion had a red glare in his eyes, to where the hatred was almost palpable. Morpheus stood his ground, his mind off in some distant dream and his body now completely occupied by instinct. 

Must protect the hive at all costs. Once a changeling always a changeling

The two stood for a moment, glaring at each other in the silence that followed. Then, with a spurt of speed, Spatchcock charged towards his opponent, screaming at the top of his lungs, Morpheus simply side-stepped, and landed his front hoof on the stallion's back, sending him to the floor. The stallion, however, was much stronger than he looked, and charged once more, grappling Morpheus. The two tangled and fell on top of the table, sending pies, cakes, and deserts into the air. 

Chaos erupted as ponies ran here and there, trying to escape the madness that had occupied some of their fellow neighbors. Already, several other colts and mares were joining in the fray, attempting to subdue Mirror where as several others, including Twilight, blocked their path. What followed was an all-out brawl where no pony could tell friend from foe. Already, Rustle was standing on the table, his horn glowing as he tried to restore order like a lonely lighthouse surrounded in a sea of chaos. 

Morpheus was smothered by a piece of cake as Spatchcock tried to dig his hoof into the changeling's mouth. Gagging, Morpheus sunk his saber-like fangs into the stallion's limb, causing him to pull back in agony. Taking advantage of the moment, Morpheus smashed his head with Spatchcock, who flew into a group of brawlers. After being violently shoved back into the fray, Spatchcock used his momentum and collided straight into his smaller opponent's front. Both crashed into another pile of books, which sent the shelf toppling over.

Grabbing, a History to Equestrian Mannerisms Morpheus began to repeatedly strike the stallion again and again. Irritated with this, Spatchcock went under and lifted the changeling off the ground, so that it looked like they were in some sort of demented piggy-back ride. Morpheus continued to wack Spatchcock who, disoriented from the fight, drunkenly flung the changeling off his back and through the door.

There was a loud crash as the changeling broke down the wooden barrier and rolled over the cold grass outside. Through his dazed eyes, Morpheus could see several lights flashing open and in the distance several shiny black shapes in the sky. 

Either fellow changelings or the Equestria Guard Morpheus thought absently before Spatchcock belly-flopped on top of him, crushing his noggin into the ground.

Firing another bolt of magic, Morpheus lifted the stallion a few inches off him, enough room for the changeling to use his hind legs to buck the stallion into the air. Dazed, and dizzy, Spatchcock swung his hooves once more before Morpheus slowly got up, his eyes burning with hatred, and allowed his hole-covered hoof to collide with Spatchcock's snout. The stallion immediately collapsed on the grass, his breathing rapid as he lay perfectly still.

"I WIN!" the changeling shouted half-heartedly, chuckling a little as he spat some saliva that had been stuck in his mouth. He prepared to lead his legs in an airborne dance when there was a violent stab of pain in his wing area. Turning around, Morpheus nearly squealed at the sight. His wing was bent at an odd angle, the soft texture curved well-beyond its capacity.He needed to get to a cocoon and fast.

Before he could do anything else, however, he felt a small force smash into the back of his head, sending a ripple down his frill. As soon as it had happened, Morpheus suddenly felt his legs give in and he soon toppled on the grass. Looking up, he saw a familiar pink unicorn observing him with her famous grin.

Double...Morpheus sighed. He could already see several armored guards pouring into the library, calling for order and breaking up the fights that had started inside.

As he gazed at that smug, satisfied face, Morpheus could have sworn he saw a tinge of approval in that hidden facade. But at the same time, he could see a feeling of regret as the repercussions had far outweighed the merits.

And yet as he stared up at Double, he did manage to make a grin himself, as he would be using her doll as soon as he got out of this mess. And with that, darkness consumed him.

	



> Dungeons, Dummies, and Double!!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Morpheus woke with a groan in his left shoulder, the ache in his wing bringing little spasms of pain. Where am I?The air felt cold, and as his eyes adjusted to the dark, he noticed a stained, grey wall. The room was sparse save for a rusted, black bunk that supported two, moldy, lumpy mattresses. Dotting the wall were various stains that ranged from brown, to beige, to cream, to green, and to mixes in between. The smell itself was musty, and the mattresses, now that he thought about it, were absolutely putrid. A tiny, one hoof by 4 hoof window was situated at the front of the opposite wall. Across from this, was a large, wooden door reinforced with iron welds and nails. It too, had a tiny, iron-bar hole serving as a window. 

Sweet Celestia I'm in jail again. The changeling realized despairingly. This was deja vu. It always started in a library and ended in a dungeon. Or perhaps the events that had transpired in the last month or so had all been some very dreadful, harrowing nightmare. Maybe it had only been a day since the Canterlot invasion, and in fact, he had never escaped the cell in the first place.

Well if it was then not only was I having dreams within dreams; I even got blasted with a party cannon in every single one! Well, dream or not, he was here and if he remembered correctly dungeons were notorious for-

"SPIDERS!" Morpheus shrieked, his arachnophobia kicking in. He began to probe himself, making sure none of those little black balls of terror had managed to leech onto his precious shell. After affirming himself that no such monster inhabited his body, the changeling sighed in relief, plopping back down on his bottom. 

"Ouch!" the changeling hissed, turning around to see that his bottom had been heavily bandaged. Actually, his hooves, carapace, and even the menacing horn on his head were all wrapped in gauze. So it wasn't a dream after all...

"Did someone say something?" a voice groaned, the source being a black lump in the far corner of the room that was just starting to pulsate. Morpheus backed away, fearing that he had been locked in with a giant, changeling-eating, horrific, spider! Immediatley he ran for the other side of the wall, wondering if he could run around and just tire the spider out.

No use, the changeling concluded, I'd be too scared to run anyhow.	 Holding his breath, the changeling accepted his fate that the giant creature would gobble him up and spit whatever remains were left into a disposable waste bin. However, as the figure rose from the shadows, Morpheus saw that it was equine in shape, and had brown hooves. Upon stepping into the light, he could make out a dark brown mane and a chipped moustache. The pony himself had his horn and shoulder covered in milky-white gauze, and winced whenever he moved.

"Wha-what the BUCK!?" The stallion's eyes widened.

Morpheus too stood shocked at his cell-mate. "Spatchcock? Oh you gotta be kidding me!" On cue, both changeling and stallion began to hobble over to each other, waving their hooves like two old mares competing for the last orange. However, both immediately collapsed on their bellies, their limbs too weak and injured to sustain or deal anymore damage. 

For a moment or two, the two simply eyed each other, thinking up the various ways they could inflict more pain then they already gained from their previous scuffle. After inwardly sighing that combat was out of the question, they began to utter various names in a verbal assault.

"Parasite!"

"Hypocrite!"

"Thief!"

"Snob!"

"You know what," Spatchcock got up, "I think you're spying on us! Just like last time, and the time before that!"

"And you know what?" Morpheus stood up, "I think you're just as dumb as you were before you knew changelings existed. At least I use common tongue Mr. Somepony!"

Spatchcock only sneered, "I can use Common Tongue! I have used it in the past during my travels you little piece of spoiled mulberry pie! But you see, I actually am brutally honest with my customers! When was the last time you did an honest thing in your life? Cause judging from what I saw, you decided to steal an Element of Harmony's form in order to gain access to FREE FOOD!"

"At least I enjoy food before I start accusing its chef of poisoning my pie!" Morpheus accused, his eyes as thin as slits. If only he had enough energy to finish this stallion off for good. Then perhaps he could find a guard or Star Wing to release him.

"I wouldn't need to accuse the chef," Spatchcock replied snidely, "if the chef didn't try to poison me the last two times!"

"Well maybe," Morpheus yelled, "you shouldn't try to kick your chef out into the backyard the next time you don't like his cooking!"

"And maybe I should have kicked him harder so he couldn't come back and try to poison me again!" Spatchcock growled.

"And maybe the chef would have cooked better if you weren't such a jerk!"

"You know what," Spatchcock jeered, "I'd eat that stinking cake if it meant I didn't have to spend another stinkin' second with you!"

"IT'S PIE," Morpheus berated, "AND GO AHEAD AND EAT IT! MAKE MY JOB A LOT EASIER!" 

"FINE!" Spatchcock grabbed an invisible slice of cake-I mean pie-, and began to munch on it, moving his cheeks ever so slowly. "Delicious! I wonder what's in it?"

"I spat on it! Cause I love putting a piece of me in my craft!"

Spatchcock instantaneously began to gag and disgorged whatever invisible contents were in that dessert. "You sir are a terrible cook!"

"And-and you sir," Morpheus stuttered, "have terrible taste in cuisine. Something I would expect from a pony who probably hasn't even crossed the border!"

"Lying piece of rubbish!"

"Stupid, ignorant, daughter of a diamond dog!"

Both turned their backs, grumbling to themselves about cake, pie, the border, and various poisons that could be induced in the dessert should any of them wish to try it. Eventually, they turned around, prepared to begin another oral offensive.

"You're a deceitful piece of trash!" Spathcock spat out. Morpheus merely regarded the disheveled stallion with a scowl. "And you're a snobbish spoiled cake!"

"You tried to destroy my capital!"

"And you let him destroy my home!" Morpheus slammed his hoof on the ground, but quickly regretted the decision as he collapsed, cooing his stingy hoof.

Spatchcock himself tried to make a move towards him, but stumbled on his right hoof, he instantly began to grope it, massaging it with his left.	For a minute, both creatures were nursing their wounds, not at all concerned nor satisfied with the outcome of their argument.

"What's wrong with your wing?" Spatchcock asked softly, pointing at the changeling's bent left wing. Morpheus merely, shrugged, ignoring the searing pain he still felt.

"Just took a tumble into that table is all."

Spatchcock nodded, and tried to get up, but once again was brought to his knees when he felt the soreness in his right hoof. Morpheus regarded the stallion with a mildly concerned expression. "What's wrong with your hoof?"

"You tried to bite it remember?" Spatchcock said sarcastically, "Yikes you changelings are like animals when you get into a brawl. And those fangs could slice through dragon scales sweet Celestia."

Morpheus had to grin at the colt's discomfort with his attack. "I should have warned you changelings are notorious for their sharp fangs, but you wouldn't know that would you?"

"I've had my fair share of trouble," Spatchcock replied irritably, "I just didn't expect you to be so vicious."

Morpheus growled, "Well maybe you ought to hold that tongue of yours." 

Spatchcock merely sighed, his eyes regarding Morpheus with an equally pained expression. "I'm not the best at holding my tongue like other ponies. I suppose the anger just got to my head."

"It's instinct," Morpheus concluded, "same as me. We weren't meant to co-exist in the same region."

Spatchcock nodded, "That's probably the smartest thing you've said all day changeling. We aren't meant to live together like this."

"Well maybe if you ponies were just a little more accepting-"

"Accepting?" Spatchcock interrupted, "We've allowed thousands of different species live with us. We haven't kicked out the Buffalo. We kept the zebras, the donkeys, the mules, the minotaurs, and even the dragons are on decent terms with us."

"Yeah right," Morpheus scoffed, "and I'm supposed to believe a stallion whose fuse is as short as the amount of bites it takes to finish a choco-watermelon cupcake?"

"Nobody has proven that it takes only 1 bite!"

"A changeling did!" Morpheus crossed his hooves.

"It doesn't count..." Spatchcock too crossed his hooves.

"Because you're racist?"

"Because that changeling was probably YOU!"

"IT WAS ME!"

Spatchcock deeply desired the chance to smack this changeling in the snout, but his wound still stung. "You know what? The reason we tolerate the others is because they never attempted to attack us and then put the knife behind their back like we were friends all of a sudden. It takes more then the Elements of Harmony to forgive a thousand or so years of having you as enemies."

"What do you want us to do? Throw you a party? Massage your hooves? Transform into your deepest desire?" Morpheus outlined the silhouette of a mare with his hooves.

"You suck you know that!" Spatchcock scolded.

"And you suck harder!" Morpheus yelled in response.

"Well you suck the hardest! I WIN! I can't suck harder then you now."

"You suck infinitely more times then I could ever suck!" Morpheus accused, "Therefore I win for using infinity bug-brain."

Spatchcock held his tongue, holding back the insult he so dearly wanted to spray in front of this fool of a grub. "YOU CAN'T USE THAT! IT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE!"

"I SO can use that!" Morpheus grinned. "You just can't admit that you lost."

"I never lose!" Spatchcock bellowed, "why I ought to smack you hard for that!"

"I'd like to see you try!" Morpheus hollered.

Spatchcock struggled to his hooves, "Let's go then. You and me. Round 2. I swear I won't go easy on you like last time!" The stallion strained to move his hooves in fighting position. 

Morpheus also got up, stumbling, but ready to throw a few punches. "Easy? Like Tartarus you were going easy on me!"

Spatchcock held out his hooves, "I'll show you, right here, right now!"

"ARRRGGGGHHHHH!!!"

"AHHHHHHHHHH!!!"

Both creatures released a war cry as they limped towards each other, rather determined as well. Morpheus could feel his hoof swing back and as soon as he made contact with the stallion's gut, he fell back in a spasm of agony."SCAAAATTT! THAT HURTS!" 

Spatchcock, who had attempted a jab for Morpheus' hoof, fell back as well, reeling in pain.  "OWWWWW, oh hayseed the AGONY! BUCK! "

"How can those guard ponies ever get up from a fight if pain is this bad?" Morpheus moaned, "Oh sweet Celestia I'm dying now. This is not at all how I envisioned it would end."

"Why did I have to die in jail...why did I have to die in jail..." Spatchcock repeated again and again, his eyes rolling around like marbles in a bottle.

"MORPHEUS! SPATCHCOCK!" an authoritative voice barked out. Both males slowly got to their legs, "Yes?". The wooden door slowly swung open, revealing a light-grey guard in traditional golden armor. "You're both free to go. Your respective parties have paid the bail." Both creatures sighed in relief, and began to limp their way towards the exit.

"Thank Celestia!"

"Thank Chrysalis!"

The guard groused an inaudible comment about society and criminals before slowly stepping out of the their way. "Next time," he warned, "don't go causing trouble. Goodness gracious, of all the places, you two idiots start a brawl in a book club? I know you were all trying to be noble and heroic but seriously, this is by far the most pathetic situation I've ever had the displeasure of being in."

Morpheus ignored the brutal insult, "What happened to Star Wing?" The guard seemed to be a little taken aback by the changeling's question, but shook it off, "Star Wing left for Canterlot two days ago. And Clyde went on some camping trip with his daughter."

Morpheus felt a tinge of disappointment, but was none the less still hopeful that he could find the receptionist, Mags. Scanning the lobby, he spotted her reading another magazine, oblivious to the outside world. None the less, he managed to say a hello, which was met with the sound of paper shuffling as Mags turned the page. Sighing to himself, the changeling slid through the ruby-red doors that had made this jail seem so happy before.

Morpheus embraced the sun, Freedom, I thought I'd never see you again until tomorrow!. Swiveling his head he casted a look of loathing at Spatchcock, who returned the favor. 

As Morpheus turned back, he flinched at the sight of a stern, jet-black changeling. "Morpheus Bloom," the changeling barked sternly, "what the buck did you get into this time?"

Morpheus merely grinned. The changeling was unfazed at this turn of expression. Letting out an exasperated cry, Morpheus held up his hoof for a hoofbump, "Come on Reflect, stop acting like you're all high and mighty!"

"Buck you," Reflect sneered before letting out a small grin, "but it's good to see you injured."

"Jerk."

"Queer." 

Both changelings began to laugh before hoofbumping each other. Reflect had been Morpheus' friend since they had shared a jail cell together. Being the intelligence drone for the Queen, Reflect explored any and all conspiracy theories within and outside the hive, producing an array of terrible theories that sometimes proved valuable.

"What's up with you?" Morpheus asked as the two made their way down to the Ponyville square.

Reflect gave his friend another playful grin, "Not much, the usual conspiracy, although recently we had an increase in anti-changeling activity."

"Really?" Morpheus was stunned, "where?"

"Fillydelphia, some parts near Manehattan..." Reflect paused, a guilty look plastered on his face, "...actually, all over Equestria really. Mostly just verbal abuse, but we've had some scuffles here and there. Some started by ponies and others started by changelings like yourself."

Morpheus blushed, embarrassed at being called out by his own friend. "Well that sounds bad, but I mean, any good news by chance?"

Reflect let out a yawn, his eyes focused on the sun slowly setting down. Morpheus, just noticing the time of day, began to panic as he realized he had been out for more then 12 hours. However, Reflect sensed his brother's anxiety and reassured him via the telepathic channel.

"Calm down there silly, the doctors had to nurse your wounds and after that, they left you in the cell to rest it off. And speaking of rest, you're gonna need some more of it when we get back to the hive. As for good news, Chrysalis is due for a speech about synthetic changelings anytime now."

"They still don't trust them?" Morpheus was puzzled. He had expected the synthetic changelings to be the first ones to mingle with the Equestrian race. "Well good on her to start making peace." 

"You really got your carapace handed to you on a silver plate last night? Got a few new holes in your legs Morphy?" Morpheus smacked Reflect in the back. "Shut up, I totally won that fight..."

"And then you were totally stunned at the end."a voice chuckled. Morpheus recognized it as Transparence, an elite changeling in charge of super-secret missions, or something along those lines.

"Well you just wait..." Morpheus thought back irritably. As he and Reflect made their way down the road, Morpheus began to think of how he was going to obtain a dummy, when a lightbulb lit up in his head. 

"I GOT IT!" he cried out, swatting the firefly that had been buzzing near his cranium.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
The hive was just as busy as before, with changelings flying from chamber to chamber. Morpheus longed to be with them, but figured he'd have to wait until his bandaged wing healed up. As he trotted along the various corridors, he spotted drones spitting out resin to reinforce the walls, guards lazily talking about their day, and various other workers moving here and there. It was the hustle and bustle of a busy hive. 

"Hey Morphy!"

He looked up to see Transparence upside down, a grin plastered on her face as she flew down to meet him. Morpheus himself was admittedly surprised, but glad to see Transparence hadn't moved out of the hive. 

"Transparence," Morpheus beamed, "about time I saw you, where you've been all this time? Some secret mission or something? Or were you just trying to avoid me on purpose, I know I can be intimidating-HRGHH!"

Transparence grabbed Morpheus in a choke hold, her smile still present, "Keep telling yourself that and I'll show you intimidating." She dropped the changeling to the ground, who gulped for air like it was mana from above.

"Well aren't you a spoiled heart," Morpheus grunted,"and you still didn't answer my question either."

Morpheus wasn't sure if it was only him, but he could have sworn he saw Transparence glow. It was subtle, but the changeling looked absolutely thrilled, as if she had been promoted or something. "I was in Canterlot!"

"Canterlot?" Morpheus wondered what she had to do with the Equestrian capitol, "what were you doing in Canterlot?"

"Well," Transparence mused, "I've alway wanted to play the violin professionally and the Queen gave me permission to go on an exchange-ling trip to the capitol. So I applied for an apprenticeship and now I get to work with these two really cool ponies called Octavia and Vinyl Scratch! We're going to do gigs in both the capitol and Ponyville! Isn't that exciting?"

"Thrilling..." Morpheus muttered bitterly. 

Transparence cocked her head, "What's up with you Morphy?" Her smile was starting to fade as Morpheus trudged past her. Heaving a sigh, she ran after him.

"What's up?"

"Nothing," Morpheus replied cynically.

"Clearly something's on your mind?" Transparence stated, "What's wrong with Canterlot?"

"What's wrong with Canterlot?" Morpheus swiveled his head, a scowl over his face, "That-that...you're leaving us for them! What makes you think they'll treat you nicely?"

The smile broke into a grimace, "Morpheus! I thought you'd be happy to see me trying to reach out to Equestria. And maybe not everypony will be so enthusiastic at my arrival, but at least I'm taking the first step."

Morpheus resumed his marching, Transparence following him from behind. "Hey! What's the matter with you Morphy? You've been acting like a hatchling all day, making rude comments on anything that has the slightest reference to Equestria. Why can't you just accept them?"

Morpheus paused, and turned around to face Transparence, who was fuming. "Maybe because I am having trouble getting use to a former enemy who doesn't seem to like us that much either."

"Most of them are trying though, you just never pay attention to them. Give them time, they're still not use to seeing us well...like this." Both changelings looked over their normal form, with sickly, hole-covered hooves and bug-like wings. 

"Well they ought to get use to us looking like this. I mean, why do we have to hide our forms?"

"And you don't think they have to hide their emotions? Morpheus, two months ago we were trying to consume their capital and now we want to live together? Not exactly the best of circumstances to build a foundation for peace."

Morpheus had to give it to Transparence that it wasn't easy. The events of the invasion and the eventual truce had transpired in less then a month. Within the course of a few weeks, they were already making peace arrangements with Celestia. And here he was, still acting like nothing had ever changed.

Transparence casted a dismal look, a frown replacing the scowl. "Morpheus, what happened? I remember when you use to be the one who reached out to ponies. I recalled from Reflect how you held him back, despite the fact that you had to cooperate with the very same ponies who defeated you. I mean, I understand that our current predicament has changed in the last few weeks but you're an entirely different changeling. And I don't think it's the power that's gotten to your head. I think it's something else."

Morpheus was taken aback by his friend's statement, unable to answer as Transparence continued.

"Morpheus, I know you had the worst experience with ponies," Transparence admitted gloomily,"mostly because of your inability to act out the part when you shape-shifted. But still, despite being chased out of towns and later admonished by our supervisor, you still held a positive demeanor. And now...now you've just grown to be grumpy. This problem isn't just going to go away. Wounds heal over time, and you need to stop thinking of what ponies can do for you and what you can do for them."

"And what would you have me do?" Morpheus asked solemnly.

"Give them a chance." Transparence smiled again once more, before raising her hoof. Morpheus returned it with a hoofbump. 

Then, he did something he didn't expect. He locked his sibling in a firm hug. "Take care of yourself out there Transparence."

"You know me," Transparence chuckled, "now stop acting all emotional like I'm being enlisted in the war."

Morpheus let go, and with a final wave, he watched as Transparence took off. When she had vanished, he continued on his trot, wondering if he had given them a chance. As he reached the hollowed out cavern, several sentires raised their hooves in a salute, something that Morpheus had lied to them about when addressing generals and the Queen. Reaching the small chamber to the side, Morpheus turned to got inside.

His office had been just as he had left it. The hammock was still swinging, and his swivel chair was where he had left it. The old picture displaying the 30 guards who did patrol in the hive hung proudly above his withered desk, where the remnant of a wax candle had melted over the top. A small filing cabinet also was present, its contents composed of several hoof-written documents on each of the changelings in the guard. A small, mahogany book shelf stood next to the cabinet, its contents mainly composed of Daring Do novels. 

"Home sweet home." The changeling plopped onto the hammock, his right hind hoof swaying back and forth as his body relaxed. As he stared blankly at the ceiling, his mind drifted to the words Transparence had said earlier.

Had he really changed? He did recall a time when he accepted other ponies, but he also recalled a time when he was insulting everypony under the moon. He even remembered a time when he learned how to bake from the Element of Harmony, and even when he felt a tinge of remorse for some of the ponies. And yet, he felt he had never genuinely been concerned for them. 

Well all matters laid to rest, I think I deserve a good nap for my trouble. And with that, the room was filled with his snores.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sunlight was shining thin beams around the canopy of trees that dotted the Everfree forest. A lone, green colt grunted as he pushed a large, wooden box over the pathway, his mane dripping bits of sweat as he did so. 

"What...hrrghhh...idiot...hrggghh...orders a package...hrghhh...in the woods?"

The colt had received weird requests before, but this was by far the most random spot he had ever been told to deliver. Keeping going down the main path of the Everfree until you spot a white stallion. Maybe he ought to have given his co-worker the job, since she seemed liked to meet mysterious, handsome stallions in deserted places.

As he heaved another groan, he saw the familiar white outline of a pony. "You there!" the shape called out, "you have the fireworks no?"

"Yeah!" the colt grunted back, "what kind of order is this sir? Twenty Red Dragon Rockets in the middle of a forest? Are you trying to wake an Ursa Major or something?"

"No, no," the slightly accented voice replied, "there's a cave here that's been abandoned for years that would make a great testing spot."

"Testing? What are you testing sir?" He had finally moved the immense package in front of the white stallion, who had a dark brown mane and handlebar moustache. 

"Why, the test that will change ponykind dear colt!" The voice sounded like he was from Trottingham, which only added more mystery behind this order. "Well," the green colt rubbed his neck, "I guess good luck with that sir, but I need a tip?"

"Oh," the stallion seemed surprised, before reaching into a brown saddlebag. Upon peeking into the contents, the colt could make out a grey, ugly doll of sorts packaged with several matches and duct tape.

"Uhhh..."

"Here you go." A shiny golden coin landed in the colt's hoof. The colt was flabbergasted for a second, unsure of how to tell this stranger that this was well below his tip. "Uhh sir-"

"Be on your way now," the stallion ordered coldly, his eyes staring directly at the colt's, "or else."

He didn't need to be told twice and with that the green delivery colt ran down the pathway. Waiting until he was out of sight, the stallion chuckled and vanished in a column of bright green flame. The insect-like form of Morpheus now stood in his place, examining the contents of the box.

"Are we ready?" Shift called out from the hidden cave a few trees away, "Cause I don't like the feeling I'm gettin'."

"Relax," Morpheus waltzed over nonchalantly, "this is fool-proof. We need a dummy anyhow for this experiment and Mr. Smartypants is the perfect choice. When we return it, it'll be like nothing ever happend."

"And what if something happens?" Shift asked tensely, his eyes darting in both directions. "Everyone knows Double would kill a changeling on site for touching Mr. Smartypants. And here we are, two thieves going way over our heads."

"Double needs to grow up," Morpheus said as he carried a few bright red tubes decorated with flimsy tissue paper to look like a dragon. "That changeling hasn't stopped playing with that demented doll since she was born. I mean, we all left our toys when we grew up right?"

"Yeah..." Shift chuckled nervously, his thoughts drifting to the toys he and his brother Alter still kept in their chamber. "And what if Double realizes her toy is missing?"

"Relax," Morpheus assured his friend as he began to set the fireworks in positions around the cave, each tied to a thin white line of string, "Alter and Reflect are distracting her with some conspiracy theories on choco-watermelon cupcakes or something. Reflect thinks they have mind-control in those pastries!" 

"Really? I thought they were pretty good if you ask me," Shift mused.

"Same here," Morpheus consented, "but still it makes for a great distraction, giving us plenty of time to run this experiment."

The changeling grunted as he climbed up another short edifice, arranging the fireworks at a fixed angle. Morpheus had to admit it was harder to set traps without his wings. The nurse had left him a note saying that it would take another month or so before they were healed.

Shift seemed to breathe in relief, grateful that his twin would be there in case anything bad happened. "Well then I suppose we should get ready right?"

Morpheus nodded and indicated the metal ball and tripwire laid out in the bag. "Put the doll on that rock, we'll lay out the string over those two stalagmites, then position the metal ball to fall over the match there. When the string ignites, it'll set off a chain reaction of fireworks. If all works out well, my hypothesis guarantees that they will not harm the intruder at all. In fact, it'll probably just stun them. As soon as we prove it non-lethal, we'll use you as the next test subject okay?"

"Alright," Shift replied uncomfortably, "but I'm only doing this because you were good friends to me and Alter."

"I've been your friend since you two hatched out of the same egg," Morpheus admonished his hatchling-mate, "think of all the things I did for you!"

Shift pondered on this for a second, but raised his hooves. "Nope nothing." He placed the doll on the tiny little stone that was marked by a red "x".

Morpheus gave an unamused glare at the changeling before tying up the last firework. "Okay, Shift set the ball, trip over the wire, and run back to the entrance as soon as you're done. You'll have around ten seconds."

Shift nodded and flew over to the top entrance, dropping the metal ball at a natural precipice. Upon placing the ball in careful proximity of the trip wire, Shift immediately rushed to the trip wire, and gently nudged at it with his hoof. Upon nudging the string, he heard the sound of the ball rolling over the stone floor. Darting as fast as he could, the changeling flew to the cave entrance, where Morpheus was already waiting with his hooves over his ears. 

"FIRE IN THE HOLE!"

SWISH! PING! BANG! PEW!

Both changelings removed their hooves from their ears, giving each other perplexed looks.

BOOM!

The explosion shook the entrance as the ground heaved and finally settled. A large column of smoke covered the changeling's faces, causing both to let out raspy coughs. It had all taken place in a few seconds, leaving Morpheus slightly disappointed. 

"I thought it would be more spectacular." Shift complained. It had probably just worked like a smoke bomb, which was utterly useless to stopping a determined intruder.

Morpheus stood up, a scowl over his face,"Well I'm calling for a refund..."

"Hold on," Shift grabbed hold of his partner, "let's make sure Double's doll is still intact."

Morpheus was about to explain that it didn't matter, but decided that he might as well fetch the doll. After all, a little smoke probably was the worst thing he could possibly expect. "Alright Shifty."

As the two made their way down the cave, they could see scorch marks in various places, and cracks in the wall that had not been there before. As they reached the bottom, both changelings coughed as the smoke cleared, revealing the tiny pedestal that Smartypants had been attached to.

"It's..." Morpheus gasped, "...incinerated!"

"WHAT!" Shift ran to check the tiny stone, but saw the doll intact, albeit it was a little darker now. "Morpheus! That was't funny!"

"I can't believe it," Morpheus began to roll over the floor, ignorant of his partner's scowl, "You should have seen the look on your face Shift! Hilarious! Almost as hilarious as that time I fired the party cannon at Mirror when she was making her way to the infirmary!"

"Yeah well," Shift grumbled, "just take it with us so we can start cleaning it in the creek or something. Can't have Double cuddling a bag of soot."

Morpheus trotted over to the stone, and with one hoof tried to scoop up the doll. But it wouldn't budge. He tried again, and yet the doll seemed to be stuck like super glue. "What's wrong with this thing?" 

"You need help there Morphy?" Shift chuckled, positioning his hooves behind Morpheus for support. 

"Yeah, shut up," Morpheus muttered, his hooves straining as he tried to wrench Mr. Smartypants off the pedestal, "it just..hrgghhh...needs...hrghhh...a little...hrghhh...FORCE!"

The sickening sound of cotton being torn caused Morpheus to fall back, the doll flying in the air as Shift gazed up in horror. Little tuffs of hay and cotton seemed to float out from the doll's back like little puffs of smoke. It was then apparent, as the lifeless object fell in slow motion on the stone floor, that Mr. Smartypants literally had no back. The chiseled remains had lost almost all its stuffing. Morpheus lifted the doll, his expression solemn as he pronounced the verdict. "He's gone Shift. Time of death, who gives a rat's cheese? Cause of death, accidentally setting off a lethal trap."

"WHAT ARE WE GONNA DO?" Shift cried out, his eyes wide in fear, "that thing is Double's most prized possession. And now it has no back!"

As if on cue, one the arms sagged and the stitching began to come undone. Morpheus dropped the doll and stood up. Shift only buried his head in his hooves. "Oh Morpheus you resin-secreted piece of scat, you've gone and led us all down the emotionless black hole called DE-COMP-OSITION!"

"Get a hold of yourself," Morpheus barked, shaking his buddy like a bag of chips, "we need to remain cool and collective. All we have to do is buy a new doll-"

"Double could tell the difference!"

"Then we fix it!"

"How?"

"Through magic idiot! There's gotta be someone who could fix this thing as if it was as good as new. You know reverse-spell or something."

"And who did you have in mind?"

Morpheus thought for a second, and suddenly a lightbulb popped in his head before he shooed it away for being yet another annoying firefly. "That's it! We can ask Rarity to help us!"

"How the-"

"Rarity fixes outfits right? She could easily mend Smartypants back together or find somepony who can-"

"Why don't we just tell-"

"NO!" Morpheus muffled his companion with a hoof, "What Double won't know won't anger her. Rarity barely knows Double so it'll be fine and she'll have to keep a code of confidentiality anyhow."

"Okay..." Shift sighed, "okay...but we barely know Rarity either..."

As if on cue, a tentative voice called out. "Hello? Is anypony hurt down there?" Both changelings immediately clambered up the cave, Shift snatching up the doll and any pieces of that had fallen out. Once they reached the top, both changelings were confronted by a familiar yellow pegasus. Fluttershy squeaked in fear at their disheveled appearance, but none the less managed to whisper a good day.

"Fluttershy!" Morpheus hugged the pegasus, leaving ash and soot over her coat, "we were wondering if you could do something for us."

"Okay," Fluttershy responded in her soft, timid voice, "what is it that...you need?"

"We were wondering," Shift began, presenting the burnt remains to the startled pegasus, "if you could take this to Rarity and ask her stitch it back up. Maybe add a few new buttons or some outfit."

"Well..." Fluttershy was unsure of how to deal with this turn of events. I suppose I could but I-"

"Please!" Morpheus bent down on his hooves,  "I will be in your debt if you just take it to Rarity and ask her to fix it, no questions asked okay? We'll pay for it too!" Morpheus pulled out a shiny new bit.

The pegasus had cringed back, hiding her face behind that bright pink mane, but managed to nod in confirmation. She turned and indicated towards the green saddlebag around her back, in which Shift steadily poured out the contents from his hooves. 

"Careful now," Morpheus warned, "we don't want to miss a single piece."

After carefully dumping the doll in the pegasus' saddlebag, Fluttershy did a quick wave and darted off towards Ponyville. When she was gone, both changelings plopped onto the rock, their bodies tired from the current fiasco. "I can't believe we nearly messed that up!" Morpheus finally stated.

Shift guffawed at the changeling's sentence and soon both were howling with tears of joy. As they laughed, two green fireballs suddenly crashed through the trees, creating a tiny crater. As the dust settled, both Shift and Morpheus had their jaws open at the sight of two familiar changelings, one of whom resembled Shift.

"Alter? Reflect?" Shift questioned, "what are you doing here?"

Reflect shot up like a weed, his eyes glaring at Morpheus, "I BUCKING HATE YOU MORPHEUS!". Alter slowly rose to his hooves, panting for air, "We...came as soon as I could...Double...knows." Morpheus sat dumfounded at the latest news. "What?" he and Shift said simultaneously.

"We were keeping Double busy," Reflect explained, "like you said Morpheus, when she decided to visit her chambers. Well, none of us couldn't say no, and sure as royal jelly, she saw it missing. But all she did was give us one of those smiles and well, let's just say me and Alter busted out of there as quick as a wasp chasing a moving target."

"Which is why we came to warn you that she's coming!" Alter blurted.

Morpheus began to shiver."She's...coming?"  

"Yes!" Alter cried out, exasperated. "How many times must I tell you! Double is coming here right now so just give me the doll. I'm sure that if she receives it we will only receive menial punishments as long as-"

"We don't have it..." Shift stated blankly, "it was... served extra crispy..."

"WHAT!" Alter bellowed, his eyes suddenly filled with absolute terror, "How are we going to-"

"Don't worry," Morpheus assured, "Rarity is working on it as we speak, so all we need to do is buy some time to make a hasty retreat to the boutique and-"

"SMARTYPANTS!" A demented, otherworldly voice shouted. All four changelings began to shake uncontrollably. Their eyes fearfully gazed up at the forest canopy, searching for the source.

"What are we gonna do?" Alter cried, "What are we GONNA DO? We're all doomed! Doomed I tell you DOOMED!"

"Keep it together," Reflect jeered, "we just need to-"

"RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!" Morpheus screamed, taking off down the path. Cursing to themselves, all three changelings followed, abandoning the crate full of fireworks.

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"Can you see her?" Shift asked, turning his head around incase the High-General was behind their wings.

"Nope," Reflect shouted back, "I can't see anything behind us, I think we made it out!"

Already, all four were jumping over logs, dodging tree trunks, and ducking under branches. Morpheus hadn't heard nor seen the High General, but he was sure she was only playing with their minds. She's probably just skipping her way over here, confident in her victory.

"I think we lost her," Alter stated, turning back. 

"Alter, alter your position!" Reflect barked.

"What about my position?" Alter asked before a large, bulky tree branch collided with his noggin. The changeling flipped backwards, and landed in front of Shift. Although Shift attempted to brake, he tripped over Alter, sending both of them tumbling into a field of blue flowers.

"Morpheus!" Reflect cried out, "Alter and Shift are down!"

"Better them then us!" Morpheus bellowed, "Their sacrifice will be remembered!" 

And with that, both changelings continued down the Everfree Forest, leaving their companions to sluggishly crawl behind. Alter felt his hind legs shrinking while Shift felt one of his eyes enlarge to about the size of a dinner plate.

"Wait for uzzzzz," the changelings slurred, "we'vvvveee been caught in Poizzzon Joke!"

As they slowly inched their way across the notorious blue field, a shadow suddenly covered the entire forest floor. Both Alter and Shift froze, slowly turning their heads around to see what had blotted the sun out.

"Hi there!" Double giggled.

Both changelings held each other tightly, screaming like banshees at a rock concert.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The two remaining changelings were galloping over fresh spring grass, the town of Ponyville shining like a glorious beacon of salvation. Morpheus didn't dare look past him, his heart beating a million beats per second. As they passed Fluttershy's cottage, crossing the bridge, Morpheus suddenly bent over, clutching his stomach.

"Cramp!"

Both changelings turned a corner and ran into an alleyway, where Morpheus began to take several gasps of fresh air. Reflect himself was on the ground, panting as his carapace secreted sweat. Getting up, he checked the window to make sure Double wasn't waiting for them outside. "Coast is clear," Reflect turned to face Morpheus. "You just left your foalhood friends to the wrath of Double!" 

"As the diamond dog saying goes, 'I don't have to outrun the manticore, I just have to outrun you.'" 

"Yeah, well let's just get to that boutique. I ain't waiting to become royal jelly or that vivacious residue they use in the tunnels."

Both changelings nodded and, after adopting two inconspicuous forms of a brown earth pony and blue pegasus, they continued down the street. Here and there, they passed various ponies, who only added to their suspicion that Double was following incognito.

"Shouldn't we be able to see her?" Morpheus whispered, his eyes scanning a pair of mares who had passed them a second ago. 

"One," Reflect explained, "she's the High General. So I'm guessing she can probably do stuff. Second, we're being surrounded by so many ponies, and changelings mind you, that it's practically useless to spot one particular changeling.

"Well that's just great," Morpheus hissed, "hopefully she's having the same problem too. I just hope Alter and Shift are alright, they were my hatchling buddies you know."

"You have a funny way of showing your friendship," Reflect admonished, "I can't believe I thought we were going to get away with this! I almost feel like going with Transparence to that stupid exchange-ling thing."

"I don't get it," Morpheus mused," as the shining, castle-like structure of the boutique came into view. "What is an exchange-ling program exactly?"

"It's when changelings get to visit various parts in Equestria," Reflect elucidated, "and you know, get to do things that we couldn't do before unless we were disguised. Some are learning to play instruments, others wanna become better herbalists, some even thought of joining the Wonderbolts Academy. Basically, you just have to clear it between the city and Queen Chrysalis, and poof, you get an I.D. card and you're on your way."

Morpheus was stunned that such a program existed. He had been so busy with his orders and pranks he had never paid attention to the news. "What about work? Surely the Queen isn't letting everyone do this?"

"Actually," Reflect began excitedly, as if he was explaining a conspiracy, "the Queen is letting everyone do it. Especially with her speech underway and all this chaos going on, she wants to ensure changelings are all over the place, representing the hive and all. The main reasoning is that she's trying to show changelings aren't that different from ponies. Of course, there is an exchange program for ponies who want to work in the hive, but well...you can imagine how that is."

"Bah humbug," Morpheus muttered, "it would probably take three of those fools to do what a single changeling can do."

Reflect chuckled, "That's true, but still, I think the Queen wants us to start living here and less in the hive. Let's face it, the Badlands isn't really the kind of place you could call home Morpheus."

Morpheus nodded, "Ain't that the truth, now let's get to that boutique with our carapaces intact." The Carousel Boutique was a magnificent gem in a field of hay-roofed houses. Its light hues of pink, blue, and white blended with the yellow curtains to form an alluring palace of sorts. The two-story store also had a couple of manequins, only adding to the illusion it was a carousel. Trotting across the clean-cut grass path, they began to check around and behind them, not wanting to take a chance someone had followed the disguised duo.

The door itself was a magnificent monolith of purple, with a diamond-shaped window. Tentatively pushing thorough it, both changelings reverted back to their normal form. "Hello?"

Fluttershy, who was just trotting by, jumped into the nearest basket, her eyes watching the two fearfully. Morpheus, taking notice of this, waltzed up to her. "Hey, it's me, Morpheus, from the forest. You took the doll here?"

"Yes." Fluttershy squeaked, causing Morpheus and Reflect to facehoof themselves. 

"Come on out," Reflect motioned to the door, "I'm tired, Morphy here looks like he's going to faint, and you look as scared as a squirrel facing the Acorn Cyclops."

"Acorn-" Fluttershy hid further into the basket, "Cy-cyclops."

Morpheus gave Reflect a reprimanding glare before motioning his hoof to the pile of sheets the pegasus was using as cover. 

"Look," Reflect exasperatedly explained, "just come on out and discuss how much we owe you alright. You're dealing with two of the Queen's best-or second best- or rather, well never mind- just come on out."

Slowly, Fluttershy emerged, and after a few confident gestures to the door, followed the changelings out. The weather team had indeed ensured a wonderful day, with birds singing and the sun shining over the pine-green trees. 

Morpheus was eager to find out the condition of the doll, considering it the very thread that was keeping him alive. So it was to no one's surprise when he asked the question. "So what did she say?" 

"Oh," Fluttershy whispered, "uh, she's still looking into it."

Reflect sighed, "Well I owe you my thanks for covering our flanks back there. The Queen only knows what Double would have done if she found out."

"It's no bother," Fluttershy chirped happily, her expression less scared and more amiable, "I was lucky to have been at the right place at the right time I guess. Always here to help a friend in need!"

Morpheus grinned. "Yep, well how much do we owe you?"

"Nothing," Fluttershy replied joyfully, "Consider it a favor now that we are officially friends."

"I'm good with that," Morpheus turned to Reflect, "Reflect?"

For a second, Reflect just eyed Fluttershy, but eventually held his hoof out, "Reflect Fury at your service miss. I do suppose this favor constitutes at least some form of friendship."

"Pleased to meet you," Fluttershy shook his hoof, "and I'll keep your secret safe."

"Thanks," Morpheus chuckled, "Well Reflect, I think we can all rest assured that my plan was fool-proof!"

"Although I wonder what your High-General would have done if you got caught?" Fluttershy scratched her chin, pondering on the thought.  

"Probably just whine to the Queen," Morpheus answered nonchalantly, "and then land me and Reflect some terrible guard duty in the nursing chambers."

"But what if she actually saw the doll," Fluttershy whispered, a worried look on her face, "I wouldn't like lying to one of my friends if I broke something. I mean, I'd try to tell her."

"Then you don't know our second-in-command!" Reflect rolled his eyes and gestured with his hoof. "She's a wack-job that one!"

"I wouldn't be so sure of that..." Fluttershy replied coldly, her eyes giving a momentary flash of green.

Morpheus and Reflect stood absolutely still, their ears ramrod straight as 'Fluttershy' continued to talk. "You know, I was quite fortunate to catch you in the woods Morphy. I only found out the moment I went into my chambers you know, and then I simply outflew your buddies."

The two changelings were speechless, unable to comprehend what had just happened. Fluttershy gave a sly smile and vanished in a green column of flame, now replaced with the familar pink unicorn form of their commanding officer. 

"Dou-Double..." Morpheus stuttered, his eyes wide.

Reflect was once again sweating from his carapace, his stomach churning whatever contents he had eaten earlier."But how-"

"I'm the High-General," Double droned in a monotone voice, "Did you honestly think you could out-fly me? As for you Morpheus, I didn't expect you to so easily give me-"

Double paused, a tear dripping from her eye, "...So easily give me the-the remains of Smartypants. It-it took some willpower to maintain my composure."

Morpheus couldn't move, his body paralyzed with fear. He had been trying to avoid the High-General all day, and now he just realized he had literally given her the charred remains of her favorite toy. Either Double was incredibly smart, or he was a bigger dummy then the dummy itself.

"So," Double wiped the tear off, her voice once again regaining its emotionless tone, "I want to know exactly what happened."

"It was all Morpheus' fault!" Reflect shot his hoof out faster then a speeding train, his body shaking.

I hate you Reflect, Morpheus telepathically hissed. Double, smiling, turned to Morpheus, her eyes regarding him like a fly she was about to crush. Morpheus only shivered, but maintained his stoic position.

"Well Morphy?" Double cheerfully asked, "what were you and Mr. Smartypants doing that got him all injured like that?"

Her gaze was almost palpable, her eyes burning into the inner recesses of his mind, forcing the truth to come out. He began to sweat, his hooves began to shake, and even his tongue began to hang back like a panting dog.

Morpheus couldn't hold the truth back any longer. "We were using him as a dummy for a firework's display and things got out of hoof. We tore his back and his limb, and all the stuffing and stitching came loose too!"

Double only kept her grin, before letting a giggle escape her fangs. "Oh Morphy! Why didn't you tell me that earlier?"

Morpheus sighed in relief, "I'm sorry High-General, I was scared you'd kill me, but I learned my lesson for sure."

Double nodded her head, like a teacher accepting a student's apology. "I think you did learn a valuable lesson today Morpheus. Perhaps you should write a letter to Queen Chrysalis explaining your latest discovering on the magic of friendship?"

"Of course," Morpheus assured, "I-I'll get right on it-"

"Oh but before you start," Double began, "I'd like to ask you a question."

"Shoot." Morpheus chuckled nervously.

"Have you ever seen an Ursa Minor?"

Morpheus guffawed, grateful that it was just a trivial question. "No Double, thankfully I have not seen an Ursa Minor."

"Well that's great because I did, and I got to meet his mommy too!" Suddenly, her eyes began to glow green, a mischievous smile forming over her lips. Morpheus was starting to back away, his hooves shaking uncontrollably as Double moved only closer. "Why the hurry Morphy? Rarity won't have it ready till later."

"Dou-Double?" Morpheus walked back, his eyes wide, "I-I thought we were friends? Right?"

"Of course silly Morphy," Double giggled, "which is why I think you deserve to see an Ursa MAJOR!"

And with that a large column of green flame erupted, sending Morpheus and Reflect to the ground as they both timorously looked up. A ten-story tall Ursa Major now stood in Double's place. It was pink, which was the only filly-like aspect of it. The beast had large, pale, sickle-shaped claws. Its head was like that of a bear, with enormous fangs and bright, blue eyes that seemed to breathe blue flames. The body itself was transparent, with constellations marked out clearly as if it was night. And with the enormous shadow it produced, it might as well have been evening.

Morpheus slowly took off a set of imaginary shades, saying "I'm afraid I'm in major doo-doo..." Reflect only stared, his jaw ajar and his eyes as wide as two apple pies. Several bystanders looked up, fear clear on their faces as they immediately ran for cover. 

"Don't worry Morphy,"Double assured him telepathically, "you're really funny, so I'll get you last."

Morpheus breathed a sigh of relief before he was scooped up like a pebble about to be tossed into the lake. Squirming to free himself, Morpheus gazed into the Ursa Major's emotionless eyes, "I thought you said you'll get me last?"

"Oh silly Morphy," Double giggled, "I lied!"

The Ursa Major let out a thunderous roar as Morpheus let out a high-pitched squeal!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Meanwhile, in the second story of the Boutique, Rarity hummed "Art of the Dress" as she began to stitch the new fabric onto Smartypants. She was admittedly shocked to see the High-General, weeping over such a trivial and run-down doll, but her heart went out as if she was addressing a filly. When Double explained what had happened, Rarity only heaved a sighed. "Oh males, they never understand do they?"

Double nodded meekly, "Which is why I'm-"

"Say no more," Rarity hushed Double with her hoof, "I know when a mare is scorned, especially if she's a filly, only absolute revenge will suffice. Tell you what, when those last two buffoons get here, you have my permission to do whatever you deem permissible."

Double smiled, latching Rarity in a hug, "Thank you Rarity!"

Now,as the roar of an Ursa Major filled her room, Rarity only continued to hum, ignorant of the familar screams of two changelings. Getting up from her desk, she moved to the drawer to fetch a batch of new buttons when a black objects smashed against her window. Turning around, she saw that it was a changeling, his face squashed as he mouthed the words 'Help me'. Rarity only shrugged and went back to her desk, the changeling peeling off the glass.

Another few minutes passed, and she swore she saw the same changeling being dragged along the grass, his hooves pawing the ground like a trapped animal. Still humming that little tune in her head, Rarity completed the doll with a minature tuxedo of her own design. 

Coming back down the stairs she passed the other two changelings, whose eyes were still rolling and one of whom had a spotted tongue. It was evident that they had rolled into Poison Joke, which was no surprise to her considering where they were experimenting.

Oh the nerve of them Rarity thought, ignoring the changeling that was banging on her window before he was plucked like a daisy. 

Opening the door, she saw Double standing outside, disguised in her Twilight Wish form. As for the two changelings, they were nowhere in sight. 

"SMARTYPANTS!" A glowing aura engulfed the new doll and in a another minute, he was being cuddled in her hooves. "I'll never leave you out of my sigh again."

Rarity smirked, "Consider it on the house darling." Double looked up, and embraced Rarity in another hug. 

"I'll never forget this Rarity! I promise I'll return the favor."

Rarity turned to look back at the two changelings in her boutique, who were only now beginning to groan. "Umm, Double as for your troops-"

"They'll be fine," Double chirped, "And thanks for letting me vent out my anger. I think they took it rather well."

Rarity didn't want to know what it took to vent out the High-General's fury, but was none the less delighted to see justice done. "Well take care of yourself darling!"

And with that Double waved before taking off. Rarity letting out a sigh, decided to check if the garbage pony had collected her waste yet. As she crossed the path, she turned and did a double-take. On the branch, at the top of the tree, were the remaining two changelings, their dazed expressions accompanied by multiple bruises. 

Morpheus managed to rise to his hooves, "I'm ooookkkaaaaay...AHHHHHHH!" The changeling plummeted down with a dull thud. Suddenly, the other changeling also fell, landing with a softer thud on top of the first. Rarity only went to retrieve the silver trashcan. My how do these changelings get into such pickles?

"I'm still okaaay..." Morpheus mumbled, his knocked-out companion crushing his gut. "...but please call a medic or someone..."


	

	
> Forced-Vacation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Two Weeks Later

"Still," Morpheus complained, "I can't understand where they went."

"You combed the entire forest?" Reflect challenged, his eyes rolling in exasperation. They were crossing the bridge into Ponyville, where already a large crowd was congregating. Chrysalis had been due to present a speech on the synthetic changeling controversy, and as such, it was all that changelings ever seemed to talk about.

"I checked every nook and cranny," Morpheus sighed, no longer wanting to discuss the matter further, "I mean...they just vanished."

"All fifteen remaining fire works," Reflect scolded, "I told you not to leave those things in the Everfree Forest. All sorts of strange ponies dot that demented meadow and I bet you all the holes in my hooves that somepony took it!"

Morpheus didn't bother with a reply, too distraught over his current lost to even counter Reflect's challenge. He had been landed maintenance duty again with Alter, who still wasn't too pleased with being abandoned in a field of Poison Joke. In fact, neither him nor Shift were seen too much during those two weeks. They had spent most of their time in the infirmary, or visiting Zecora to cure their Poison Joke affliction. 

"So why do we have to be present for this?" Morpheus uttered, walking past a group of colts who flinched at the sight of an undisguised changeling.

"I don't know," Reflect shrugged, "but the Queen was adamant that anyone who could come should come. I mean, I'd much rather do this then mix the tenth batch of adhesive for Hive C Chamber CB."

"You could say that again," Morpheus grinned, before passing another pair of mares, who casted suspicious glares at the two insect-like brutes. At the sight of this, both changelings looked each other over, and realized that perhaps going in as themselves wasn't exactly the most ideal plan of the day. Here and there, ponies were moving out of their way, as if they were enemy soldiers marching into a captured settlement.

"I don't think we need to distract other ponies during the speech," Reflect stated, taking notice now of the small barrier being created around them.

With a quick flash, both changelings took on the forms of two stallions. Morpheus was now a white mustang with a jet-black mane and thick moustache. Reflect himself was now a blue stallion with an orange, crew-but mane and solid chin. Both of them had piercing blue eyes that seemed to be struggling to stay awake. 

"Forgot how this feels," Reflect muttered, the crowd no longer forming a barrier around them, "I haven't transformed in well...months."

"Hold on," Morpheus' horn glowed as a single, circular glass monocle floated towards him, "I need my monocle."

"Oh come on," Reflect jeered, "you don't need that. It makes you look weird."

"Excuuuuse me," Morpheus reprimanded, "but I feel the need to assert a gentlecolt's image in such light of our current predicament. Live a little Reflect."

Reflect only continued to stare at his companion, unimpressed. "I'll start thinking about my looks when someone starts taking my theories seriously."

The two came across the crowd, and pushing their way past, managed to find a suitable space near the center of the town hall. All around them, they could see ponies and disguised changelings mixed together, conversing about a menagerie of trivial matters that had occurred so far in their day. 

On the podium, Chrysalis stood, disguised in some odd get-up, the Elements of Harmony behind her, and both synthetic changelings in tow. Morpheus suddenly had a flashback to his trial a month or so earlier that had happened in that same exact place, although he was genuinely grateful that this meeting was on a more civilized discussion. As they settled in their position, a green mare with a dark green mane and icy, indigo eyes came up to them, her face beaming.

"I see you two made it back in one piece," the familiar voice of Transparence teased, "so what's up with you two?" .

"Transparence?" Morpheus was shocked to see the changeling back in Ponyville. "I thought you were in Canterlot?"

Transparence only chuckled, nudging Reflect who only gave her a stern look. "Remember when I said I was learning to play violin? Well I also said that I would be moving back and forth from Ponyville and Canterlot, so here I am!"

"How's it been?" Reflect asked, as if it was a scripted response he was forced to read for some play.

"Well," Transparence pondered for a second, rubbing her neck, "It's been interesting. Canterlot sure has changed since our last invasion, and well, I'm just starting to notice all the hot spots and parties that the rich throw on a daily basis. It's tough work, but so far I've pulled through. I actually think most of them are more curious then scared of changelings now. Asking me questions about what it's like in the Hive, how many towns I've been in, how many forms I've taken, all sorts of stuff really."

"Well that's just dandy," Morpheus commented grudgingly, "and meanwhile the tunnels in A Hive are causing-according to Alter- A Problem!"

Transparence gave Morpheus an unamused stare, "Really now, I heard what happened with Double and how you practically got to see an Ursa Major up close-"

"Don't even." Reflect warned, shoving his hoof at her, the memories flooding back to him, "Just...don't."

"ATTENTION! ATTENTION!" All three changelings covered their ears as the piercing sound of their Queen's amplified voice hushed the crowd. Morpheus bent down, the agony causing him to writhe like some injured seal before Reflect gave him a good kick in the shins to stop acting like a chicken. Chrysalis, taking notice of the crowd's reaction, glowed her horn once more and turned to Twilight. "Better now?"

"MUCH BETTER!" Morpheus shouted, his monocle having shattered already. When Twilight finally managed a smile, Chrysalis turned back to the crowd. “There! Now, first off, I’d like to thank you all for taking the time to come here today.”

"Not like we had a choice," Morpheus whispered, causing both changelings to snicker before Transparence landed a well-placed hoof at the backs of their heads to knock it off.

“Now, I’m well aware you all have your own lives to live, so I feel it would be better for all of us if we get to the heart of the matter right away. Now, first off…” The Queen paused, apparently agitated at something to her right. Morpheus and Reflect strained to see it, but simply concluded the likelihood that it was a question. “Er, yes, you in the front?”

A stallion's voice rang out. "Why are you hiding behind that pony disguise? Why don’t you talk in your changeling form?” There were several murmurs of agreement, and Morpheus could see a couple of ponies giving accusing glares at Chrysalis.

"Oooooo," Morpheus held a hoof out, moving it back and forth like a cuckoo clock, "oh no he didn't..."

"Shut up!" Reflect punched Morpheus in the gut, sending the changeling on his knees. Getting up to admonish his friend, Morpheus noticed that Reflect and Transparence seemed to struggle as they held the fury that the insult had elicited. Even if they were in peace, they weren't going to tolerate disrespect to the leader. Now that he thought about it, Morpheus also felt a tinge of anger at the stallion for such disrespectful criticism.

Chrysalis rolled her eyes, allowing a tiny smile to escape her lips. “Oh I’m sorry, would you rather I speak to you like this?” With a flash of green flame, the tall, sickly-looking form of their Queen occupied the podium, causing several gasps as she hissed and allowed her horn to glow a sickening green. 

"She's putting way too much effort into that," Morpheus construed, his eyes rolling as Chrysalis began to chuckle, resuming back to her earlier form, "I give a ten out of fifteen."

"Like you'd make a good judge," Reflect muffled his own laugh, "Remind me to place you on the panel of judges for Equestria's next fashion show."

"I think the panel could use a changeling like me," Morpheus defended, "Those foals down there need a true connoisseur on appearances if the fashion industry is to stay afloat."

Transparence only guffawed, waving her hoof as if Morpheus had said a funny joke for once, "Maybe they'll hire you if they want an anchor to be dropped on that ship of theirs." She and Reflect began to giggle hysterically, causing Morpheus to glare at both of them.

"Oh hardy har har..."

"I think they're some school fillies down there you can-" Reflect paused to muffle his laughter,"...share some of your fashion advice with."

Both changelings were practically rolling on the floor now and Morpheus decided that ignorance truly was bliss, turning back his focus to the speech. Standing side-by-side, Chrysalis was flanked by both of the synthetic changelings, their hooves shuffling as if they had made some mistake on stage.

“Now, first off, I believe there is a rumor that we changelings capture ponies and take them back to our hive to convert them into changelings themselves, and even that half our army is composed of synthetic changelings.” Chrysalis explained, “So I’ll address these rumors bluntly; they are not true.”

"The conversion of ponies is a process that, if carried out to such an extent, would ultimately be detrimental to our survival. In what way would we benefit from converting our food source into more mouths to feed that would require extensive conditioning just to be controlled?” Chrysalis explained, “We do not convert ponies without thought; only those who are unfortunate enough to venture too close to our hive and risk revealing its location are captured and converted so as to protect ourselves. This happens less often than you’d think, and the total number of synthetic changelings peaks in the low hundreds. This may seem like a lot now, but apply that number across a thousand years, and you’ll realize just how low that number truly is.”

Morpheus truly did wonder how many synthetic changelings they made. He didn't really recall all too well, but he was quite certain the Queen was underestimating. Or perhaps he was wrong and they only had this many synthetic changelings since day one. 

“Converted ponies make up an incredibly small percentage of our numbers. In fact, I can tell you with complete certainty that Applejack and Golden Harvest here are the only synthetic changelings in the entirety of Ponyville.”

Turning back, he noticed that Reflect and Transparence were once again listening to her speech with rapt attention, nodding their heads every so often as if to confirm the Queen's intel. As he focused back, he noticed a brown hoof shoot up into the air.

“If you want to know the number of synthetic changelings in other cities besides Ponyville, come see me afterwards. I’ll make you a list or something.” The hoof immediately went back down. “Thank you. Continuing on…”

As he watched, Morpheus saw, for the first time since the Canterlot invasion, the actual Elements of Harmony. Not the ponies, but the golden jewels. They floated to their respective barriers, each attaching itself as if it was embracing the very pony that represented it. He had only vaguely recalled seeing the elements, just moments before he was knocked out by a party cannon to the face. 

The Queen addressed the crowd once more, “Now, I’m well aware that your all won’t be convinced by my words alone, therefore I’ve come up with another method by which to prove my truthfulness. So I say, let there be no secrets between us.”

During the Canterlot Campaign, they had been in-active, and only glimmered because of the stainless finish that was left upon their surface. Now, however, he noticed they began to glow with a surreal light, just as his Queen's horn was glowing. Suddenly, a rainbow of seven different colors erupted like a volcano, splitting up as they zig-zagged among the crowd. Taken aback, he tripped over a rock and landed on his bottom as a yellow ray of light whizzed past him. Suddenly, a white orb floated a few inches off the ground, staring at Morpheus as if it was concerned.

Morpheus turned around, noticing similar orbs hanging around each member of the crowd, before contorting as they formed necks, limbs, and even tails. As for his own, he saw a headless figure where the orb had been, although now it was beginning to form a head. Within seconds, he was staring at...well...a pony.

The colt before him was white, with a prominent, black moustache that was accompanied by equally over-sized, butterfly wings. A flutterpony? Turning around, he saw Reflect and Transparence with similar flutterpony companions. Transparence was waving at hers: a sea green mare with a goldenrod mane. Meanwhile, Reflect simply held a staring contest with his jaw wide-open. Morpheus couldn't help but laugh at how his friend's flutterpony was a light blue stallion with an orange...well...afro-styled mane.

As for the other ponies, they were looking at direct doppelgängers, which caused Morpheus to do a second observation, squinting his eyes. The thing didn't have a mouth, and if you considered blazing white eyes to be normal, then well...you come from a special place. The colt was sitting on his hind legs, in the exact position Morpheus was when he had tripped over the rock. That was when he noticed that the stallion had several indistinct black spots dotted along his coat.What are you...

“The spell I performed with the help of the Elements of Harmony creates a projection of the soul and reveals your true self.” The Queen bore a solemn gaze, “And before any of you complain, no, I don’t consider this an invasion of your privacy. These aren't your innermost thoughts brought out for all to see, it’s just a picture of your soul, nothing more.”

My soul? Morpheus stared at the flutterpony, with his jet-black handlebar moustache and wavy, black mane that hung over his neck. If it wasn't for the stupid grin dotting his face, he would have almost looked intimidating, like a proper commander. Transparence stretched her hoof out, trying to touch her soul while Reflect only continued to stare, his mouth drooling while his soul chuckled.

Morpheus waved awkwardly, curious to see if his soul responded. The soul seemed to beam at finally being properly adressed and waved back jubilantly. Morpheus didn't know what to feel except...well...intrigued.

His soul was watching him, eyes concerned as if he was wondering why his body wouldn't get up.

"See this, right here? Take a look at this pony’s soul,” Chrysalis ordered, “Doesn’t look much like a changeling, does it? High-General Double, come forth!”

Morpheus shook his head, getting up from his momentary trance to see Chrysalis waving Applejack around with her magic like some teacher showing off a jar of pickles. Double had already come up, her soul in tow, which was oddly reminiscent of her own favorite form. (No, not the Ursa Major, I mean like a regular flutterpony)

"Make no mistake, Double here is a natural-born changeling. Yet look at her soul: it’s a flutterpony. It’s a reflection of who we are on the inside. And on the inside, these two synthetic changelings right here are still ponies. Their conversions have not changed the contents of their hearts; they are still just as much ponies today as they were before, and I believe we can all agree that any malevolent changes would be reflected by the soul, would they not?”

The crowd still stared, unsure of how to deal with this current presentation. Morpheus himself had to agree he was absolutely flabbergasted. His soul was now doing twirls, and-believe it or not-placing etheral whoopie cusions under several other souls. Well that's my soul if I ever saw it. Morpheus thought humorously.

“Don’t you ponies have a saying, ‘It’s what’s on the inside that counts?’ Well, these ponies are still ponies on the inside. So why does their physical appearance, the one that they hide for your comfort, change anything? Even we natural changelings are not monsters, as you can clearly see, so why can’t you xenophobic, ignorant masses just hurry up and understand that?!”


The tone of his ruler's voice turned into a harsh shriek that caused him to instinctively back away, his soul cowering right behind him, peeking over his shoulder. However, Chrysalis managed to regain her composure, and brushed a hoof over her mane. “…Yes, well, that’s all. I have no more to say. I just hope you can all see reason now. The changelings and ponies are at peace; there is no need for such suspicion between us anymore. So please realize that.”

"Buck me," Reflect finally got out of his trance, "did our Queen really just go dragon-voice on the crowd?"

"I'd say," Transparence commented, "it looks like she wants to drive her point straight into the souls of these ponies."

Chrysalis held her hoof out to her own projection, which took it and vanished in a flash of light. Turning back, she explained to the crowd that all they had to do was to relax and open their heart to return their soul's projection. Transparence carefully hugged her soul, fearing she would break it. Meanwhile, Reflect merely nodded and, making sure no one was looking, squeezed his soul in a bear hug. 

Morpheus too looked at his soul, who was still waiting on him. He stood there for a second or two, still perplexed at this entire experience as a whole. But, carefully, he reached his hoof out, and his soul happily did the same. Upon contact, however, Morpheus felt an electric shock jolt his hoof. Looking down, he realized that his soul was wearing a buzzer-a real buzzer- making inaudible giggles at his prank.

"Very funny." Morpheus chuckled, his eyes darting back and forth. Once he was sure no one was paying attention, he too grabbed his soul in a hug. There was an emotion that spread through him that made him feel light as a feather. Eventually, after what seemed to be an eternity, the changeling realized he was hugging nothing. 

The silence that followed was more awkward then seeing the changeling Queen angry. Morpheus regrouped with his two companions, who sat on the ground in stunned silence, unable to comprehend what had happened before them. "Now what?"

“Woo, go Carrot Top!” a voice suddenly cried, before a grey blur crashed into the synthetic changeling Morpheus simply assumed was Carrot Top. Surprisingly, the earth pony held her ground and observed the grey pegasus with a reprimanding glare.

“Derpy, did you forget to keep track of time again?” 

The one Morpheus assumed was Derpy gave a guilty smile, before the crowd began to waltz up onto the stage, shrugging to themselve, to mingle with the two synthetic changelings. 

As the chatter of ponies making apologies and commenting on the speech surrounded him, Morpheus went to a bench, and sat, oblivious to the world as he tried to piece together what had happened.

"That was amazing," Reflect suddenly popped out from behind, causing Mopheus to fall on his belly. "I can't believe she was able to do that!"

"Yeah," Transparence added, "I really didn't expect that kind of speech. Seeing a projection of your soul and all."

"Didn't you know," Reflect suddenly frowned, "that was the real deal! Those things were our souls!"

"What?" Morpheus got up, his eyes wide. "What do you mean those were our real souls? I didn't feel anything was missing."

"Yeah," Transparence argued, "nothing missing when I saw my soul's projection."

"Well the Queen probably didn't want to alarm anyone," Reflect determined, "I mean, that wouldn't have gone well now would it?"

Morpheus and Transparence sighed, blaming Reflect's outburst as another one of his absurd conspiracy theories. Changing the subject Transparence noted the ponies happily congregating on the stage. "I'd say the Queen did a fine job on that speech of hers. Sure cleared up a lot of grudges being held towards us."

"Is it true though what they were saying about those anti-changeling groups?" Morpheus finally asked, the question having been on his mind ever since the incident at the library.

"Yep," Transparence nodded, "it isn't serious, but I've seen it in Canterlot. It's understandable, considering that some of these ponies had ran into me during the invasion."

Reflect let out a hearty laugh, slapping the bench as if it was in on the joke. "I'd be more scared then angry Transparence. You probably traumatized those wealthy foals for life."

"Oh please," Transparence scoffed, swatting an invisible fly with her hoof, "I only dangled them up upon a two story building. Barely even frightening if you ask me."

All three changelings began to laugh now, causing several bystanders to glance over them with worried expressions. When the laughter finally subsided, Morpheus began to swivel his head back and forth. "Hey, who turned off the moon?"

"Why if it isn't my two favorite imbeciles." The familar, authoritative tone of Queen Chrysalis spoke out, causing Reflect and Morpheus to turn around, sheepish grins plastered on their faces.

"Why my Queen," Morpheus noted, "ummm...we thought your speech was really good!"

"Yeah!" Reflect added, "Really well done. I knew we voted for the right leader."

"We don't hold votes in the Hive," Chrysalis replied bluntly, "but one thing that a changeling is good at is convincing the public that she means no harm."

Turning to Transparence, she let out a small smile. "Transparence, would you mind if I borrowed these two for a moment?" Transparence only nodded, before the Queen grabbed hold of both males and vanished in a burst of green light.

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The next thing they knew, they were in a dark, damp cave. Upon closer inspection however, the familar throne came into view, looking as regal as before, with its intricate designs and finely resined walls. Dropping both of them unceremoniously, the Queen flew up the steps before silently waiting for her two subjects to get up.

Both changelings bowed before their Queen, as if they had come in through the front door. "You've requested our presence?"

"Sadly," Chrysalis droned, "I am here to address you on a few...incidents." With that another flash of green revealed a scroll. Unfolding it, Chrysalis let it slide down the stairs, reaching the hooves of Morpheus who gulped.

"Morpheus Bloom," The Queen read in a loud, booming voice, "Drone #769. 240 counts of hive misdemeanor, 24 counts of of property damage, 1 count of insubordination, no-make that 10 counts of insubordination, 5 counts of theft, and 2 counts of public misdemeanor."

The Queen released the scroll, which rolled down the steps, returning to its cylindrical shape as she pulled out a second scroll from behind her hair. Spreading it out, she read, "Reflect Fury, 101 counts of hive misdemeanor, 56 counts of property damage, 34 counts of insubordination, 24 counts of theft, and 77 counts of public misdemeanor and thievery."

Morpheus was gaping at Reflect. He couldn't believe that the changeling had a bigger record then his. "Reflect? How the buck did you get 77-"

"THOSE CUPCAKES ARE MIND-CONTROL!" Reflect shouted, "I swear I saw it my Queen. That pink one is going to make us all do her bidding you just wait and see."

Chrysalis facehoofed herself, holding in the urge to lob this piece of parchment at her Intelligence General. "Reflect, you barged into a schoolhouse, grabbed a tray of cupcakes, and proceeded to burn them while the fillies cried."

"I did what was necessary," Reflect stated undeterred, "I regret nothing!"

"Reflect," the Queen exasperated, "this is the third time you've cried out that the ponies are using mind control. For the last time, I myself have devoured a choco-watermelon cupcake and have seen NO, I repeat NO MIND CONTROL!"

"You wouldn't remember." Reflect challenged.

"I ate it in the throne room, accompanied by my High General and Morpheus himself, who I might add devoured the rest of the box."

Reflect turned to glare at Morpheus as if the changeling had betrayed him. "You ate the cupcakes? After telling me that you thought it was an excellent theory that I should discuss with Double? You were eating the cupcakes the whole time?"

"They were good!" Morpheus defended, raising his hooves in the air, "What did you want me to do? Let them rot? They aren't mind-altering Reflect. You just say that because of that one night in prison!"

"That PASTRY CAT WAS EVIL!" Reflect shouted in a neurotic tone, "EVIL I TELL YOU! EVVVVVVAAAAAAALLLL-"

"THAT'S ENOUGH!' The Queen shouted, her voice like thunder as she walked down the steps. Instantly, both changelings were silent, their heads now focused on the floor.

"Morpheus, Reflect," the Queen said in a softer tone, "I am trying to express a point without your interjections every ten seconds! Now if I hear one more word out of either of you, I'll toss you in the dungeon myself! Understood?"

Both changelings nodded meekly, causing Chrysalis to let out a sigh of relief, "Now, I've read your reports because those are the largest pieces of parchment I have ever had in my years as Queen. You two have caused more trouble then a whole gang of teenage dragons, and on top of that, I'm going around Equestria paying bail for both of you when I could be up there, reading speeches to convince these lesser mortals that we bring them no harm!"

Morpheus raised his hoof, as if he was going to speak, but then silently let it drop. The Queen, her voice measured, continued. "Now I'm not going to punish you like I usually do, seeing as it has had little to no effect." The Queen let herself take another deep breath.

"But I will say that it is quite apparent that your problem is no longer in the hive. Considering the incident at both the library and the schoolhouse, I'd say this is a worldly problem that must be stopped."

Morpheus and Reflect looked at each other, unsure on how to react. Chrysalis herself had to wonder how these two subjects before her had come from her womb. Perhaps a remnant of Discord or something.

"Now, I've deliberated this situation over and over again in my mind..."

Morpheus and Reflect waited, standing on their corner holes.

"...and I've decided that disciplining you would be utterly useless..."

Both changelings sighed in relief, hoof-bumping each other for avoiding another week of maintenance duty.

"...which is why I am going to suspend both of your jobs."

"WHAT?" Morpheus and Reflect cried out simultaneously. The Queen was unfazed, her expression just as emotionless as before. She was unable to fathom the amount of idiocy that seemed prevalent in these two. Before, it was just Morpheus but now, the Queen realized that spending a day or more locked in a room with the changeling was contagious if not down-right destructive.

"Until further notice, both of you have been suspended. I will be having no need for espionage and Alter has happily accepted the position to act as your substitute Morpheus."

"That back-stabbing weed!" Morpheus smashed his hooves together, "after all I did for him." Reflect rolled his eyes, muttering something about hatchlings and manticores.

"Now," The Queen began irritably, "that you are free of your duties, I've talked with Celestia, and we've agreed that you two should go on a little...vacation of sorts..."

"Vacation?" Reflect was suddenly hopeful that perhaps the outcome wasn't as bad as he had feared,"what kind of vacation?"

"An exchange-ling excursion to be exact," the Queen explained. "Think of it...well...as a forced vacation."

Both changelings began to moan, their minds already coming up with possible outcomes. "You can't do this! We're too young!"

"You're both adult males," Chrysalis stated, "and as such you'll either take this option or leave it to chance to decide your fate."

Both changelings began to deliberate on the idea of an exchange-ling program. If they accepted, they would be flung horn-first into an Equestrian settlement, forced to do Equestrian jobs, and well...integrate with Equestria. This didn't seem too tantalizing, but if they refused, well...Morpheus and Reflect shuddered at the thought of what Chrysalis would do.

"I guess we don't have much of a choice," Morpheus sighed, followed by Reflect nodding in agreement. The Queen let a small, devious smile spread on her lips. This was going to be easy after all.

"Then it is settled," the Queen summoned another large piece of parchment from thin air. Unraveling it, both changelings could see it was covered in minuscule writing.

"I'm going to be brief with you cause I'm a busy bee. The summary of the Exchange-Ling Disclosure Agreement simply states that in no way, is the Hive nor Celestia nor Luna responsible for any damage, charges, or any other unfortunate accident that should occur during your adventure. You will be completely on your own, save for your sponsor who will accept damages and bills within reassson." Chrysalis had hissed the words with such a venomous tone that both changelings felt paralyzed.

"Sign here and here." she indicated towards the bottom, where a tiny region had been left sparse. Dipping their hooves in ink, both changelings stamped their signature onto the parchment. In another flash of green light, the contract was engulfed in flames.

Reflect and Morpheus bowed, their minds buzzing with what they would do in another settlement. Maybe they'd be selling fruits in Fillydelphia, or gambling at casinos in Las Pegasus, or maybe even get to become guards in Manehattan!

"If I may ask," Morpheus tentatively raised a hoof, "where are we going...exactly?"

Chrysalis only seemed to brighten at the question, "Well, dear 769, if you really, really must know, your excursion will be taking place in..."


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"APPPPPPPAAAAAALLLOOOOOSA!" Braeburn slammed his hoof on the mahogany table, causing both changelings to jolt awake. "And must ah' say it's my pleasure to welcome ya'll!" He was a heavy-built stallion, with a brown vest and hat. His green eyes seemed to counter his yellow coat and mane. 

Morpheus had recalled rolling on the floor when his Queen had so sadistically laid out their verdict. An exchange-ling program in Appleloosa, and the license was deemed active until the Queen decided otherwise. Of all the places he could ever be sent to, Appleloosa was by far at the bottom of his list, layered beneath twenty pounds of scat.

Apparently, the sponsor committee couldn't wait when they received the news, and had insisted meeting in Sweet Apple Acres. Now, both changelings realized two very important details regarding their new program. One, that the committee was actually just one hyperactive stallion, who happened to be a cousin of the Element of Honesty, and two, that he was going to get on their nerves faster then a quarry eel on coffee. 

That, and the fact that Braeburn didn't seem to take a hint. The two changelings had sat down, without being asked, had pouted when Granny Smith set a steaming warm apple pie, devoured said pie before Braeburn had a chance to eat it, and had decided to snore through his introduction about himself. Yet, despite all of this, Braeburn was either remarkably patient or remarkably dim-witted as he continued.

"Considerin' yer' the first two changelings to ever wanna live in APPPPAAALOOOSA! Ah' reckon Ah'd take the time to get all yer' paperwork done here before we saddle up!"

"Absolutely riveting." Morpheus drawled, his eyes lazily observing two flies fighting each other for a tiny crumb left at the windowsill.

Braeburn took out a brown suitcase, which he opened with a rusty creak. Digging through several papers, he eventually let out a yell of triumph when he pulled out two, fresh pieces of parchment, the ink still wet. Sitting back down, he began to read the first piece.

"MORE-PHO-"

"MORE-PHEE-US," Morpheus pronounced, "It's Morpheus."

"Oh," Braeburn blushed, "Morpheus, well it says here ya' work as a guard or somethin'?"

"Guard?" Morpheus stood up on the table, "I'm the Commander of the Praetorian Guard dear Braeburn!"

"It's not a real position," Reflect hissed, shielding his mouth as he gazed indolently at Granny Smith baking yet another pie. 

Morpheues threw a venomous glare at his companion, but sat back down. Braeburn, apparently ignorant of the insult, continued on as if nothing happened. "Well Morpheus, can Ah' call you Morphy for short?"

"You're not the first." Morpheus rested his legs on the table, leaning back as he resumed observing the flies' epic duel for a 

"Alrighty then," Braeburn grinned, apparently overjoyed that he was getting somewhere. Morpheus had to wonder how the stallion could have such a wide, big-eyed grin that occupied his entire face and made him look like he was being smushed in-between two pieces of plexiglass. 

"Morphy, Ah'm sure you'll be happy to know that Appleloosa could use a changeling like yer'self. With all kinds of trouble out there, settlers need to feel safe and secure."

"Like I care," Morpheus shrugged, still fixated with the micro-battle happening to his right.

Reflect, having observed Granny Smith for two whole minutes now, slammed his hoof on the table. "What's the hold up! I'm practically starving here!"

"In a minute dearie," Granny Smith scolded, her eyes darting a dangerous glance at the changeling, "gosh you changelings use to be so cordial when we was enemies. Now, y'all just a bushel of spoiled apples."

"Just keep baking," Reflect barked, "I think you'd kick the bucket before that pie is finished!"

Braeburn froze, his eyes riveted on the changeling as if he was in shock. Eventually, however, he shook it off and resumed his warm, welcoming gaze. "Reflect was it?"

Reflect nodded, grumbling to himself about something neither changeling nor pony could tell.

"Well," Braeburn switched to read the second piece of paper, "It says here yer' a conspiracy theorist. Well I'll tell ya', there ain't no place more mysterious then APPPAAAALLLLOOOOSA that's for sure. Whole town may have been built in a year, but ever since, we've been having all sorts of myths and legends spreading around. Ghost riders, abandoned forts, even the headless horse! Good old Saltworthy would sure love both of y'all."

"I'm more concerned," Morpheus eyed Braeburn directly for the first time in well... the entire meeting, "about our living quarters so to speak." 

"Say no more," Braeburn held his hoof out, "Ah' know you're an arachnophobic Morpheus! So ah' made sure to clean the place up myself!"

Morpheus suddenly felt a wave of embarrassment sink into his gut, causing him to blush a bright pink. Braeburn, realizing his mistake, immediately patted the changeling with a reassuring hoof.

"Ain't nothin to worry about Morpheus, we all have fears. Ah'm scared of snakes, and old Silverstar won't say it, but Ah'm pretty sure he has claustrophobia. So don't worry if you have a phobia. Cause here in APPPPAAALOOSA-"

"WOULD YOU EVER SO KINDLY STOP SAYING THE NAME OF YOUR TOWN LIKE THAT!" Reflect yelled, his eyes blazing with anger. 

Braeburn took his hoof off Morpheus and slowly nodded, "Alrighty then, didn't know it was so aggravatin' for ya'. But ah' can't help it, and you're practically the first changelings to ever request APPAAL-ah' mean-...Appleloosa, as yer' traveling destination..."

Reflect slammed his hoof. "Listen here buddy, I don't know how much you know or how microscopic your brain is, but me and my partner here don't wanna go to your APPPPAAALOOOOOSA!" Reflect had said the last word in a mocking tone identical to Braeburn's voice. "We're here-"

"Cause you were punished," the stallion interjected, "Ah' knew you didn't want to come here, but well...ah' figured that with enough hospitality you'd change yer' mind or somethin'." Reflect sat down, his scowl still visible as Morpheus expressed his own irritable glare.

"Listen," Braeburn explained, sighing as he took his hat off. "the thing is, Appleloosa has gone through tough times. It wasn't easy for us to negotiate with the Buffalo and it sure ain't easy organizin' with changelings too. But ah' reckon that whatever force brought ya' here, it brought ya' here fer' a reason."

Morpheus and Reflect were silent, their glares only softening a bit. The room was quiet, Braeburn placing the hat back on his head. "Well Ah' ain't gonna force y'all to go, but-"

"We have no choice," Morpheus grunted, "so I suppose the matter is settled. Just do us all a favor and please try to keep the Appleloosa stuff to a minimum?" There was a momentary silence before Braeburn grinned, and heaved the two changelings with surprising strength into a bear hug! "Thanks fer' giving me another chance!"

"Just don't go pushing your luck colt," Reflect growled," I may be compliant now, but I swear if you-"

Braeburn once again seemed distracted with his own thoughts, unable or unwilling to care. "Well let's all get you two to the schoolhouse so we can take a photo!"

Morpheus suddenly felt a tinge of panic at the idea of taking a photo. "But-"

"No buts," Braeburn warned, "Ah' took the liberty of getting yer I.D. cards printed out here so ya'll can have 'em when we ride on back to APPPPAAALLLOOOSA!"

"You're doing it again," Reflect gritted between clenched teeth.

"Does it look like Ah' care?" Braeburn laughed, "My oh my, ya' sure got a temper on you Reflect. Ain't nothin' to be shamed of though. Being forced to do yer' Queen's bidding would make anyone angry. But once y'all see the Appleloosian beauty and try the tongue-tangling cider, you'd be wishing Ah'd say it more often!"

"I'm quite sure neither of us would," Morpheus growled, "you see, I honestly think the name is totally-"

"Dandy?" Braeburn finished, "Morpheus, you're more fun then a whole band of banjo players!"

Morpheus gaped wide-eyed, "I didn't say-"

"Look at the time!" Braeburn dropped both changelings, his eyes like saucers watching the clock. "We gotta get goin' or we'll miss the train!"

Before Granny Smith could set the steaming pie onto the table, the stallion had already shoved the two out the door and across the farm, talking non stop as they made their way across the fence, and down the road to the schoolhouse.

"Ah' gotta say Ah' love seein' my cousin's farm and all! Even if she's a changeling like you, she's still the same Applejack I'd remember from way back when. Ain't nothin' changed about her on the inside! And really, it's the filling that counts."

"Thrilling," Reflect muttered, crossing his hooves as he and Morpheus were being bulldozed down a dirt path. Braeburn was now galloping at full speed.

"Ah' gotta say though," Braeburn shouted over the wind, "y'all ought to try our cider! Ah'm sure you'll find it just delectable! Ya' know, the cider is what brings us the business nowadays! Ah' think Ah' might have some but it ain't gonna taste too-"

Cider?Morpheus' mouth began to water at the thought of the sweet, sugary drink that had managed to find a special place in his stomach ever since tasting it. When he had heard the Apple family only made cider during certain times of the month, he had been craving the drink more and more. As the schoolhouse came into view, the changeling let his tongue fly, his thoughts drifting to cider, apples, and happiness.

Reflect, on the other hoof, still had his hooves crossed, and was grumbling to himself. If this was how his life was going to be for the next few weeks, he would have rather chosen Chrysalis to kill him on the spot.
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"Gosh ain't that a pretty sight?"

The Ponyville Schoolhouse resembled a candy shop more then any elementary building Morpheus had seen. The exterior was dotted with various hearts and the roofs reminded him of chocolate. The bell tower itself was equipped with a weather vane, and a red flag stood saluting the school. As they were pushed through the brown door, Morpheus noted that somepony had taken the time to shear a the shape of a graduate out of a bush. 

Inside, he saw that it was composed of three columns of wooden desks, each emblazoned with heart-shaped holes. On either side were turquoise shelves, their contents ranging from globes to books on any subject you could think of. At the front of the classroom, where the blackboard should have been, was a blue screen that had been pulled down. 

A magenta mare and a younger, lanky pegasi colt with a brown mane and cream coat stood by. However upon their arrival, they dashed up to shake Braeburn's hoof.

"BRAEBURN!" the mare gave the stallion a hug, "It's good to see you're still in shape! Me and Featherweight here are really excited about this whole new, exchange-ling program was it?"

Braeburn blushed as he took off his hat, "It's mighty fine to see ya' too Miss Cherilee! Ah' got the I.D. cards all printed out and ready to go. Ah' just need to get a picture of both these changelings before we leave fer the train."

"Of course," Cherilee turned to the tiny colt, who was fluttering right behind her. Around his neck was a large, sleek black camera that looked like it cost more then what Morpheus made in a month, if changelings were paid of course. "Featherweight here can take just about anything!"

"Perfect!" Braeburn glanced at the clock, a worried look on his face. "Ah'm afraid we might have to do this quick. Train leaves tonight and it'll take us at least a whole day before we reach Appleloosa."

Cherilee narrowed her eyes, as if she was about to embark on some very intense race, "Don't worry Braeburn, we'll get those pictures for you pronto!"

Meanwhile, Reflect had stayed in his respective position, unfazed by the greeting. Morpheus, on the other hoof, was digging through a saddlebag, tossing out rope and horseshoes in his determined search for cider. 

Within seconds, Braeburn grabbed Reflect and had him pose in front of the twig-like pegasus. "Now smile Reflect!"

With a click and bright flash, Reflect maintained his cold demeanor. Cherilee, looking over Braeburn's shoulder, began to pout. "Why what's wrong with that one?"

She went up to Reflect, who regarded the mare with a scowl. "I'd say you look rather grumpy mister? Aren't you excited to be going on a trip?"

"Absolutely thrilled!" Reflect replied sarcastically, before trudging past the teacher and purposefully bumping into Braeburn.

Cherilee narrowed her eyes at the changeling's rude behavior, but none the less smiled at Braeburn, who had once again ignored the provocation. "Well I guess that's how they smile right?"

"Yeah," Braeburn rubbed his neck, "can't expect every species to smile in their photos Ah' guess. Morphy! Why don't ya' come on down here?"

"AH-HA!" Morpheus pulled out a shiny bottle. Braeburn chuckled, "Ah' see ya found some Appleloosian cider there Morphy, but Ah'm afraid it's been in the sun too-"

"Nonsense," Morpheus interrupted, pouring the contents into a mug, "if you want me to smile, you'll let me drink this okay?"

"Alrighty then," Braeburn sighed, "but Ah' just want to let you know that Ah' warned ya'."

Practically holding back his eagerness, Morpheus stepped into view of Featherweight, who was readying his camera. Braeburn was shifting uncomfortably, his eyes glancing from Morpheus to the cider. Morpheus posed with the cup, "Now I wanna good photo of me, none of that cheap yearbook scat you foals usually do! This is a professional portrait!"

Featherweight only stared blankly, before shrugging as he lifted the camera.

"Three...two..." Cherillee began to count down.

Sweet Apple-Morpheus chugged the golden liquid down his throat.

"SMILE!"

-SCAT BRAINS! Morpheus' look of ecstasy turned to dread as he practically gagged, before upchucking the contents from his stomach. Cherilee stood up, her hooves retreating from the now less delectable contents. Braeburn facehoofed himself while Reflect rolled over the floor, hollering his bottom off. 

"Well Ah' suppose those oughta due," Braeburn sighed, taking the two photos from Featherweight, "sorry 'bout the mess."

"Oh," Miss Cherillee chuckled half-heartedly, "no worries Braeburn. Happens all the times. Just never...well...with changelings is all."

The three quickly filed out of the classroom, making their way down to the train station. Morpheus had managed to hold his stomach in, but Reflect was still muffling a few more giggles that threatened to erupt. Upon reaching the station, with its hay roof and wooden pillars, Braeburn tossed the bottle of cider in a trash can, before turning to the two changelings.

"Ok, Ah'm going to get these laminated at the office there," Braeburn pointed towards a wooden, worn down train. "Go to Car 11, and take these." Two shiny golden tickets were deposited in either changeling's hooves. With Braeburn gone, both Reflect and Morpheus slowly made their way, counting down each car. The train itself had a shiny, black engine. The cars were made with brown wood and had the familar metal roofs, The windows themselves were rectangular, revealing several comfortable beds within.

Eventually finding Car 11, both changelings were met by a grey stallion in a navy blue conductor's uniform. "Tickets please." he called out in a high-pitched voice, holding his hoof out expectantly. 

Depositing the two golden tickets, the conductor retracted his hoof, before pulling out a small metal device that glinted in the sunlight. Cutting three holes into the ticket, he handed them back. But before either changeling could get in, he held a hoof out, blocking their path. 

"Listen," he whispered, "I don't like this anymore then you do, but for the sake of the trip, could you just disguise yourselves?"

Reflect and Morpheus were about to retort when they realized that the conductor had a point. The trip would be more pleasant if fewer ponies knew who they were dealing with. Heaving a sigh, both changelings vanished in the all too familar column of green flame, replaced by the exact forms they had used during Chrysalis' speech.

"Better?"

The conductor nodded, his glasses hanging loosely on his snout, "I honestly don't have a problem with you, just that...well...I can't speak for the rest of our guests and this train travels all over the Mild West."

"We understand," Reflect trotted past the stallion, Morpheus following close behind. Car 11 was composed of two bunks, each hugging closely to the wall while the isle led to a tiny parlor with an assortment of cider. On a nice, mahogany table, was a tiny white card that read 'Welcome Exchange-ling Adventurers!' Also on the table, was a bright red book with the all too familar Daring Do title accompanied by a tiny black book titled 'Equestrian Myths and Legends'.

"Sweet!" Moprheus snatched the book," I was wondering what we were going to do here!"

"Oh please," Reflect groaned, snatching the black book, before leafing through its pages with a deliberating eye. "Now this will be useful. Gotta know the facts about Appleloosa before we get our hooves dirty."

Morpheus let out a loud yawn, plopping down on one of the bunks. His wing still had another few weeks to heal, and he was absolutely exhausted from the day's events. "I don't know about you Reflect, but I'm hitting the hay."

"Same here," Reflect flew over to the top bunk, before carefully placing his book under the pillow case. "I just can't believe our Queen is sending us here. I mean, we aren't model citizens but this is too much. Morpheus, what do you think about all this?"

The audible snores was enough evidence that Morpheus had indeed passed out. Sweet Celestia, that drone snores like a dragon in hibernation. Reflect shoved the pillow over his head, trying to block out the noise. However, he realized that it was of no use and simply stared blankly at the opposite wall, bored out of his mind.

"Well it looks like our friend has hit the hay."

Reflect stood up, surprised to see Braeburn crouched over Morpheus. Usually, his ears would have picked up the hoofsteps, but either he was too distracted or Braeburn was more stealthy then he looked.

"You caught me there," Reflect murmured, "don't you know you never catch a changeling off guard? It's dangerous for your health."

"Sorry 'bout that," Braeburn chuckled, before digging into his saddlebag and pulling two fresh, plastic cards out for Reflect to see. "Here's yer I.D. cards, Ah think you'll like them."

Reflect took the cards in with a magical grasp. He smiled at his own I.D. card, before frowning when he read the bottom. "It says here I have anger-management issues," he complained, "I don't know-"

"Yer' Queen provided the information," Braeburn held his hooves out innocently, "Ah'm just the middle mare so to speak."

"Ugh." Reflect flipped to the card for Morpheus, and nearly fell off his bed in laughter. Braeburn joined in, so that Morpheus woke with start, his eyes groggily regarding the two. "What sour emotion has inflicted you this time of day?" he yawned.

"This," Reflect flung the cards at Morpheus who examined them for a second. "OHHHHHHHHH COOOOMMEEEEE OOOONNN..."

"AHAHAHAHAHAAA," Reflect rolled over the floor, "You sure know how to make a memorable pose!"







	























	



	
> The Great Appleloosan Train Robbery
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	Morning was a rather quiet affair with tea and biscuits, if you didn't mind the constant munching of a certain changeling. With a private car, the two changelings could wander about without their forms, since the train staff didn't seem to mind giving passage to the former invaders. Morpheus was dipping crumpet after crumpet until...well...there weren't that many crumpets to dip anymore. As for Reflect, he didn't even touch his plate. Instead his eyes kept glancing every so often at the rather arid landscape before him. 

Braeburn took notice of this and chuckled, "Why Ah' thought you two were use to desert and sun."

"I suppose," Morpheus mused, "but well...I just can't believe we're going back."

Braeburn was right to assume they had seen this before.

In fact, it was the striking similarity that made both changelings shudder. The same sand-stone cliffs and formations dotted the barren landscape, where lone tumbleweeds rolled past. Here and there, cactus plants took hold, their stubborn nature being the only thread keeping them alive. And beyond that, large, orange mountains that seemed to cause a tear in the yellow sky. 

As the train ride continued, Reflect remained as stoic as ever, with Braeburn occasionally tugging at his vest as if he was nervous. Morpheus didn't blame the stallion, for he too felt a nagging sensation in the back of his cranium. It was probably best to start a subject to lighten the mood.

"I don't get it," Morpheus said, grabbing Reflect's untouched plate before pouring all the biscuits in his cup, "I was under the impression that, with all things considered, you were already on peace arrangements with the changelings."

Braeburn gave a half-hearted chuckle, sipping his own cup before getting up and checking the brown door that separated passenger cars. After double-checking the lock he went back to the table. "Well Morphy, Forge has tried, but well...he and Sheriff Silverstar don't see eye to eye."

"Wah d' u' men?" Morpheus asked, his mouth stuffed with the mused remains of the partie's eclairs. Braeburn had to hand it to the changeling for having an appetite that rivaled his cousin's and then some. Morpheus was an absolute slob, his plate literally buried under crumbs and soggy napkins. It was a good thing he had arranged for the cook to bring all their meals inside. 

"Well," Braeburn rubbed his neck, " Ah' suppose it's because of Forge's reputation and all. Bein' a changeling and a bounty hunter ain't really the best way to establish negotiations after all.."

"What's wrong with that?" Reflect spoke up, causing Braeburn to jolt in his seat. 

None the less, he proceeded to elaborate. "Well...we here at Appleloosa have a low tolerance for troublemakers. Bounty hunters, outlaws, snake oil merchants, and well...former enemies of Equestria."

Reflect's eyes narrowed at the veiled insult. The changeling got up and crawled into his upper bunk, where he shielded himself with the cotton blanket. Morpheus knew Reflect for his short temper, but he also knew that sometimes the best way to encourage Reflect was not to tell him he was going to be met with animosity the moment he stepped down the train.

Braeburn gloomily stared at his cup, his hoof playing with the saucer. Morpheus had to admit he didn't look as jolly without a hat, but as Braeburn said it, a hat didn't have any use in a train. 

More red and orange boulders passed by as the train continued down the desert. The world of Equestria, now that Morpheus had time to observe, did seem to have a large reach. Instead of rolling green hills and colorful towns, he saw the same monotonus desert that had plagued him for the majority of his hatchling years. Earlier, the train conductor had described Ponyville as at the center of a large valley that stretched up to the mountains. This natural barrier protected Equestria's borders from the harsh elements beyond. But with expansion on the rise, Equestria had been trying to go beyond  it's natural wall and, as a result, had run into some undesirable obstacles. 

"Ah' got it!" Braeburn exclaimed, "let's all try to get to know each other!"

Reflect didn't respond, the bundle of blankets just as motionless as it was before. Turning to Morpheus, Braeburn seemed to plead with him. Deciding that the stallion did deserve at least a bit of education on changeling structure, Morpheus sighed and nodded in agreement.

The stallion grinned, "That's the spirit Morphy! Now why don't ya' tell us about yer' job?"

"I work as the Commander of our Queen's own royal guard!" Morpheus had stated this in such an affluent accent that Braeburn had to stifle a giggle.

"Please continue!"

"Continue?" Morpheus rubbed his head, "I don't-"

"Well surely ya' ought to have more to say then just a fancy job title!"

It was true that Morpheus had much more to say then a fancy job title. He had loads and loads of information to say. However, some of it would be rated for a much older audience, so he chose his topics carefully.

"Well, I guess I could talk about the changelings in my command!"

"Sure!" Braeburn nodded his head, eager to hear more.

"Well, Who's on first shift, Someone's on second shift, and Don't Know is on third."

Braeburn's grin dissolved into confusion, "Uh, hold on a sec, ya' don't know who has which shift?"

Now it was Morpheus' turn to cast a perplexed look, "Of course I do you fool! Who's on first!"

Braeburn didn't look convinced, his eyes darting from the window back to Morpheus, as if the answer was outside. "Are you sure Morphy? I don't mean to be rude and all but it looks like ya' don't know who's on any shift."

"I do know!" Morpheus stood up, his eyes glaring, " Someone's on second and Who's on first!"

Braeburn gave an irritated scowl. Perhaps there was a reason this Queen had been so eager to toss the changeling out. He didn't even know his own toop's names! Meanwhile, Morpheus was having difficulty understanding how this stubborn stallion didn't know the changelings Who, Someone, and Don't Know Scat, although perhaps he should have used his full name instead.

"Listen," Morpheus explained, "Who has first shift! The first shift, not the second shift, cause that belongs to Someone, and as for third, Don't Know Scat has it."

"Don't know scat?" Braeburn stood, his voice rising, "Well ya' sure don't sound sure!"

"I am sure it's Don't Know Scat!"

"Ya' don't know scat!"

"NO! The changeling Don't Know Scat!"

Reflect suddenly rose from the covers, looking incredulously at both of them. "Who said I don't know scat? "

Morpheus gave a startled look at his companion, "When did Who ever say that about you?" Morpheus would have to talk to Who later about his behavior if he was disrespecting generals now. 

"What do you mean who?" Reflect admonished, "I mean what you just said!"

"About Don't Know Scat?"

"YES!" Reflect fell back into his bed, as if he had just finished teaching one letter to a squirrel. Honestly, he wondered why Morpheus had idiot moments like this.

"Well I was talking about the guards: Someone, Who, Don't Know Scat-"

"Which guard doesn't know scat?" Braeburn rubbed his hoof, as if he was trying to piece together a puzzle with too many pieces, "Ah' mean, don't ya' think it's mean if you say someone who don't know scat?"

"Not really," Morpheus shrugged indifferently. "I mean there may be some grammar error in there, but I don't feel bad about it."

Braeburn was taken aback, falling onto his chair once more in astonishment at the changeling's apparently cruel demeanor. Morpheus had no respect for those in his command, which made Braeburn wonder how he got the job in the first place.

"Well," Morpheus thought for a second, "I guess Someone does slack off, although with Who is pretty much a given."

"Really," Braeburn asked, "who?"

"Yeah," Morpheus sat down, gulping another cup of tea before reaching for the kettle, "Of course Who would slack off."

"But who?"

"Well..." Morpheus took another gulp of tea, "Who would."

"That's what Ah'm asking, which one of yer changelings would slack off!"

"There is Someone," Morpheus replied irritably, "definitely Someone."

"NO!" Braeburn facehoofed himself, "Which one of your guards would slack off?"

"Someone and Who!" Morpheus answered in an exasperated tone, wondering why this was so difficult for Braeburn to understand. It was clear as daylight that Someone always slacked off on duty, and it usually was with Who, but Zero was one of the few changelings who took it seriously.

"How 'bout this," Braeburn put his hoof down, eyeing Morpheus and speaking very slowly, "which guard wouldn't slack off?"

Morpheus was now regretting ever talking about his life. Clearly, the life of a changeling was too complex for the equine synapses to comprehend. He would give a seminar in Appleloosa, and perhaps find a more refined audience to lecture to.

"That's easy, Zero."

"Really now," Braeburn narrowed his eyes in disbelief, "so no changeling takes the job seriously?"

"No, I have Zero taking the job seriously."

"So no one?"

"No," Morpheus sighed, "zero."

"So I'm right, it's no one!"

"No, it's Zero!"

"No one is Zero!"

"Zero isn't no one!"

"Really," Braeburn replied sarcastically, "well tell me, what is zero related to then?"

Morpheus thought about this for a second. Zero's closest brother was surprisingly Don't Know Scat. Those two always did stuff together, and were a perfect target for his pranks. He shrugged, "I'd say Don't Know Scat."

Braeburn slammed his head on the table, giving up on the changeling before him. As if on cue, a yellow colt opened the door with a cart filled with fresh daisy sandwiches, which he laid carefully on the parlor table while clearing the small side table they had used for breakfast. Taking up his book, and two daisy sandwiches, he crawled into his lower bunk, avoiding the scowl plastered on Reflect's face. 

"I honestly don't know what I did wrong back there. Morpheus complained in the hive chat, taking a bite out of one the sandwiches. 

"You were playing retard Morphy! Braeburn just wanted to know who was under your command and you kept giving him the-"

"I said it was Who, Don't Know Scat, and Someone!"

"That's not-"

"You don't know those three?"

A bright-green snake's head slithered down to gaze at the changeling, as if he had just got the punch line to one of the most inane jokes in the history of Equestria. "You're kidding? We have a changeling called Who, Don't Know Scat, and Someone?"

"We ran out of names," Morpheus munched vigorously on the cooked greens, forcing it down his throat, "So yeah, our Queen named three changelings Someone, Don't Know Scat, and Who."

"Why didn't you say that?" the snake hissed.

"Cause I thought he was playing stupid with me! You know, when you ask what's 13x7 and someone says 28!"

The snake rolled its eyes and slowly curved back out of sight. Morpheus shrugged and began to leaf through the pages of his Daring Do novel, 

Daring Do and the Mystery of the McHoofin Motherload

. Coincidently, or not, the setting was in the southwest, where Daring Do had teamed up with a rag-tag group of settlers to obtain stolen treasure from a gold rush long ago. It wasn't the best novel, but it was definitely something to do rather then explain his job again to Braeburn, who was still passed out on the table.

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The western sun beat down on Daring's back, causing her to sweat a tiny puddle that evaporated in the scorching sands of the desert. The dunes seemed endless, and it seemed she would plop dead at any moment to wither away. However, as if by magic, the tiny hamlet of wooden shacks materialized out of the arid landscape, causing Daring Do to gasp. 

The tiny village seemed to be ill-suited for these extreme conditions, the shelters composed of rickety wooden doors and houses that had sand both in and out. The ponies themselves didn't seem to fare any better, their faces haggard and wrinkled, with bags under their eyes for working long hours in the mines. However, Daring continued to trudge onward, ignoring her parched throat. Even the winds themselves were rough, the sand particles piercing her fur as a lone tumbleweed rolled past, onward towards wherever fate had intended. 

"Fate has intended me to be here for some reason, Daring thought absently, I mean why would the Steel Co. write for me and not Detective Colt Yelps? Ahead of her, standing on the porch, was a grey stallion with a shaggy, long beard and piercing green eyes. The beard itself appeared brown, although she couldn't tell for sure due to the amount of stains that had never been properly washed off. The pony didn't seemed to care, and held out his hoof expectantly.

Taking it, Daring felt the grime and grease slide on her own dusty hoof. "Uh-a pleasure to meet you-"

"Tinsel," the stallion answered, revealing a toothy smile, "the name's Tinsel, as ya' can see by this here cutie mark."

He turned around so that Daring could get a full look at the mark, where a light brown stain covered the bright colored, floral decor that would have been his cutie mark. She looked back at Tinsel to see if he had noticed her look of disgust. However, Tinsel, was occupied, his eyes staring at Daring's flank.

Elicting an irritated blush, she pulled back, "Excuse me-"

"Yer' Cutie Mark!" Tinsel exclaimed, moving forward to have a better look, "Why, a compass? Fer' a professor at Manehattan Ah' would think-"

"Of something pertaining to some scholarly achievement?" Daring finished, chiding herself for assuming the stallion's intentions."Well I suppose you'd be right in that it certainly is odd, but I would argue that it does fit my occupation of choice."

Tinsel was waiting for Daring to continue, clearly more curious about his new visitor then the reason he had brought her here in the first place. "Well...I won't go into details on how I got it, but the compass is a symbol of our exploration of both  the physical realm and the mental realm...so to speak. My cutie mark shows me both as an intellectual in the pursuit of knowledge, but an avid explorer who will journey anywhere to find answers. However, it appears we aren't embarking in the pursuit of long lost temples, but rather the pursuit of one's own wealth."

"Well," Tinsel sighed, "Yeah, ya' could say that. Ah' know the ol' Steel Company called ya' to help us, but well, the truth is most of these folks are moving out. They're tired of the mine, and well...really the only thing that was keeping us going was that-"

"Colonel McHoofin's Motherload?"

"Yeah," Tinsel cried out, "that's the one! That old chest of gold we found!"

"Well," Daring Do mused, "normally this would be a matter for the Sheriff no?"

Tinsel seemed to suddenly be attracted to the ground, no longer making eye-contact with the mare. "The Sheriff Blue Horn? The Steel Co. tried and well...he's exhausted all assets. He was going to meet us here, but...Ah' don't see 'im. Ah' reckon he must have run into some business. But don't worry, Ah' heard ya' were the type to know a lot about this kind of treasure."

Daring once again felt foolish for coming here, "I don't know what you've heard but-"

"Here," he shoved a piece of parchment, "Ah' reckon there is somethin' to be made out of this 'ere clue. It said that we ought to seek the sanctuary that bears that image drawn there."

"Clue?" Daring unraveled the crumpled piece of paper, examining the contents. The paper was mostly blank, save for a single line of barely legible hoof-written words and...a very familar symbol.

"Sweet Celestia!" The symbol held the familar royal crest of the two sisters, light and day, to signify Celestia's plea for balance despite her own sister's banishment. Below the royal crest were two golden spears intertwined with one another, with a golden laurel snaking around them in an X.

"What?" Tinsel turned to look at the paper.

Daring Do shook herself out of her momentary daze."How much do you know about Equestrian military?"

Tinsel rubbed an oily hoof over his mane, "Not much, Ah' know Celestia's Guard and then we have the Sheriff Ah' guess."

"Have you ever heard of the Equestrian Cavalry Force?"

Tinsel shook his head wearily, "Ah' can't say Ah' remember too clearly about that particular branch. Usually, Ah' just hear about the Royal Guard and such."

"Well," Daring explained, "this symbol belongs to the Equestrian Cavalry Force, a group of Royal Guards that assisted in conquering the West as they say. When the pegasi were fighting the griffins, these fellas were fightin the buffalo, coyotes, quarry eels, jackalopes, dragons, and well...outlaws even. They were lead by an officer known as Colonel McHoofin, a famous earth pony whose picture is commonly seen on train cars today."

"Really now," Tinsel rubbed his hoof, "Why is that?"

"McHoofin was known for stationing guards on several trains when the railroad was built. It was a safety measure to prevent train robberies, but as time went on, the need for protection became more and more obsolete. However, some trains still keep a portait of McHoofin as a sort of thank you for his focus on the railroad industry. As it turns out, however, McHoofin was protecting much more then that."

"The gold!" Tinsel exclaimed.

"Exactly" Daring smiled, congratulating her temporary pupil, "at the time, very few banks wanted to establish themselves in the west, fearing robbery. So, most ponies in the west had to store their gold in one of two places: their own mattress or a bank in Canterlot."

"Ah'm guessing the mattress wasn't the most ideal of options." Tinsel commented.

Daring nodded, "Indeed, with outlaws like Calamity Mane and Fizzy the Kid, the gold that was found had to be safe-guarded. Unlike Appleloosa, who had settled purely for agricultural purposes, settlements like Dodge Junction were built around the gold mines before they moved to farming. The vast array of gems and precious metal were abundant, and as one settler put it, a sea of opportunity. But the sea was treacherous, and as such, Celestia enforced military protection."

Tinsel "But how does this connect back to the gold that McHoofin was stashing?"

"Well," Daring continued, "in order for settlers to get the gold to the Canterlot bank, they needed to give 1/3 of their loot to McHoofin, who would then ensure the safety of the treasure all the way back to the capital."

Tinsel scowled,"Why that greedy-"

"Don't be so quick to judge, Tinsel," Daring warned, "many settlers saw this as a small price to pay to ensure their treasure's safety with Celestia's finest. And Colonel McHoofin didn't spend it all lavishing on himself. Using the gold, he began to build forts and outposts. He replaced his unit's armor, which acted as natural ovens in the sun, for broad-rimmed hats and neckties that were colored blue and gold after the Royal Guard. In fact, this symbol here was designed by McHoofin' himself!"

Tinsel still looked impressed. "So that means whoever hid the chest-"

"A sanctuary where the this symbol would have been common," Daring interjected, a small lightbulb popping in her head, "That's it! The abandoned fort must be where the gold is!"

Tinsel gave another toothy grin, "Well I'll be Miss Do, ya' sure know yer' history!"

Daring only rolled her eyes, "Of course I know my history! It's my job you know."

The two shared in a quick laugh when suddenly, the rumble of hooves caused both to stop. Standing in front of the square, was a blue-colored stallion with a bushy pearl white moustache and hat, his brown eyes scanning the area like it was filled with vermin. 

Tinsel seemed to stiffen at the sight before whispering to Daring, "That's Sheriff Blue Horn, miss Daring."

As if he had overheard the comment, the sheriff turned to glare at Daring, "Well I'll be if it isn't-"

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"-Dinner!" Braeburn shouted, his enthusiasm apparently returning as the gold colt brought in a steaming tray of hay fries. Morpheus put his book down, his snout taking in the aroma of fresh food. Rushing up to the table, he noticed that Reflect and Braeburn were already seated, discussing something about how the weather had taken a turn for the worse. Sure enough, outside was dark and stormy, the occasional flash of thunder indicating that the rain was coming. Surprisingly, every now and then, occasional storms would brew in the west, but not as frequently as Ponyville. It was a wonder to Morpheus to see exactly why of all days a storm decided to show up now.

"So," Braeburn began, "Reflect here said ya' actually have four changelings called Someone, Don't Know Scat, Zero, and Who?"

Morpheus gulped a mug of juice before answering, "Yep! The hive can do that to some changelings. We just get use to it or call them by their numbers."

"Ah' see," Braeburn grinned, "Sorry about thinkin' ya' were playin' with me!"

Morpheus continued to eat, but gave a nod at Braeburn who turned to Reflect. "So Reflect, Ah' saw you and Morphy there enjoyin' them books we gave y'all."

Reflect turned a dark red, which caused Morpheus to almost choke on his fries in laughter. Reflect had been known for calling Morpheus a queer for liking strange books like Daring Do, but the fact he had been caught reading a tale on western legends gave Morphy an edge the next time his friend felt like griping.

"Indeed," Morpheus swallowed, "I must say, it's interesting so far what's happened. Although I always though the novel was a little over-hyped by the community."

"Over-hyped?" Braeburn asked bewildered, "Don't ya' know that was based on a true story?"

Morpheus spewed the drink he was currently enjoying, "What!?"

Braeburn rolled his eyes at the changeling's manners, "Yeah, the whole part on Colonel McHoofin was real! A legend he was! In fact, Ah' think we have a picture of him right over there!"

Sure enough, the ornate picture frame at the end of the train car showed a very imposing face of an earth pony. His snout was squared, with a longer bottom jaw and a grey moustache to accompany it. His grey mane was tied back with a blue bow as his imposing blue eyes stared off into the distance at a target they could not see. As for his attire, he was well-dressed, his shirt covered with gold medals.

"Wow," Morpheus stared in awe, "he must have been pretty wealthy to have a painting made for every train car."

"He kinda looks like your alternate form Morphy," Reflect commented thoughtfully.

Upon closer examination, Morpheus did see some familar traits between his flutterpony form and the colonel in question. "I suppose, but I don't think I could bury long lost treasure. I'd have spent it!"

Braeburn gave a slight chuckle, "And that there is where the truth ends Morphy. Ya' see, McHoofin's Motherload really is just a myth. In reality, the colonel did spend it all on himself or his soldiers. When Celestia pulled them out of the west, McHoof just retired to a quiet life in the woods, givin' away all his valuables to a museum or somethin'."

"But that's not what other ponies say," Reflect challenged, raising his book in the air, "they say that during the gold rush, a settler came across an ancient temple ruin in the mountains. He took the artifact and tried to give it to McHoofin. A mask they say it was, composed of solid gold. Well, you can call me a queer but if that doesn't sound weird there's more. The mask never made it to Canterlot. Apparently it got lost in transit as they say. McHoofin' apologized and gave some bits for the settler's trouble, but to this day, some theorize that the Colonel kept it for himself. Or that he saw the mask's potential for evil and hid it!"

"That's poppycock," Morpheus waved his hoof, "Anyone with half a brain would have taken it to their leader first. To make sure it was dangerous before hiding it in the middle of the desert."

"Well," Reflect argued, "McHoofin had a habit they say, of detecting things that were of high magical concentration. Kind of like that weird Pinkie Cake's pinkie sense or something like that. Anyhow, they said he had detected items like the Alicorn Amulet and other notorious trinkets. So, if he thought somethin' was up with that mask, he would have definitely tried to hide it."

Braeburn felt himself getting tugged into the conversation, eager to hear more. He too knew about McHoofin's ability to detect magical properties, but he had never heard of a mysterious gold mask before. 

"Why not destroy it?" Morpheus asked, stuffing more fries into his mouth, "I mean, why would he bother trying to hide it? At that point, I'd have it destroyed."

"Ya' can't just destroy somethin' like that," Braeburn interjected, "if McHoofin's gut was right, Ah' reckon he knew that it was too dangerous to destroy. He'd have had it hidden away, where no pony would ever find it again."

Morpheus was silent, munching on his fries in defeat. Reflect, a smile plastered on his face, continued to sip at his juice. As for Braeburn he felt compelled to continue the subject that had grabbed his curiosity.

"Well," Braeburn sputtered, "what else did they say about that mask?"

Reflect picked up the black, leather bound copy, "Well...it says here that the mask may have been a remnant of some ancient zebra kingdom..."

"Zebra kingdom?" Morpheus chuckled, "here in the San Palomino Desert? I mean, I can understand our kingdom in the Badlands, but the San Palomino Desert? No way is there a kingdom there sir!"

Reflect shrugged, "That's what my sources told me."

"Well," Braeburn interjected, before any changeling could continue their debate, "Ah' think dinner here is done! Why don't we all rest up now?"

Both Morpheus and Shift turned their heads quizzically, "Bedtime?"

Braeburn seemed to blush, his cheeks turning a bright red. "Well, ummmm, yeah! Don't yer' queen have some kind of bedtime?"

"Yeah," Morpheus agreed, "but still, I mean, we're technically on a vacation, forced or not."

"But y'all need yer' strength?" Braeburn offered, his eyes practically pleading with them.

"I was thinking of exploring a bit," Morpheus suggested, pointing towards the door, "No harm in that right?"

Braeburn and Reflect both gave bewildered stares, before Braeburn finally spoke up. "But the whole cart is filled with them fancy ponies from Canterlot."

"Canterlot?" Reflect mused, "Why would anypony be interested in Appleloosa?"

"Not Appleloosa," Braeburn elaborated, "but the whole area of Equestria. They think it's goin' be some kind of adventure. Ya' know...vacation." The stallion gave a dismal, pained expression at his choice of words. Here he was, tryin' to convince two changelings to visit his new town. And in the other cart, was a group of Canterlot folk on vacation under the idea that they would be seeing some wild west exclusive. 

Morpheus, on the other hoof, felt a tiny firefly light up once more in his head, before he waved it off, grumbling about bugs in the train cart. "Great Scat! This will be perfect!"

Getting up the changeling vanished in a flash of green flame, replaced by a familar white stallion with a blue mane and monocle. "I don't know about you gentlecolts," Morpheus replied in a perfect Trottingham accent, "but I'm going to go and mingle a bit now."

"Wait a second," Reflect darted forth, blocking his friend's exit, "what do you think you're doing? We can't just go strolling into a car of ponies we don't even know!"

"Which is why," Morpheus smiled, "I took on a form of this famous aristocrat...what was his name...aahhhhhhh Fancy Pants!"

Reflect narrowed his eyes, "You're kidding me right? Do you want us to get thrown off this train?"

Morpheus rolled his eyes, "Well do you want stay in a boring car all day or actually do a little exploring?"

Reflect pondered on this thought, before sighing, his own body being taken up in a flash of green flame, which was replaced with the same stallion he had taken from Canterlot. "I hope you know what you're doing..."

"Relax," Morpheus patted his hoof, before looking over Reflect with a disgusted stare, "I think you should be somepony...I don't know...a little more flattering?"

Reflect scowled, his form once again vanishing in a column of green flame. When the flame subsided, both Morpheus and Braeburn were frozen, their jaws agape.

"Well," Reflect muttered, "I do know a thing or two about Fancy Pants."

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In the adjoining cart, Jet Set and Upper Crust were looking over their cold hay fries with a dismissive stare. Being husband and wife, Jet Set's light grey coat and dark grey mane was in complete contrast to his wife's yellow coat and blue mane. 

"I must say darling," Jet Set stated, setting aside the plate, "this food is absolutely vulgar."

"Most definitely darling," Crust agreed, setting aside her own plate and raising her hoof to the conductor. "Excuse me monsieur, but do you have any cuisine more favorable to...well...Canterlot standards."

All Aboard gave the two reprimanding glare beneath his spectacles before answering in his upbeat, deafening voice, "I'll go and check on the chef and see if they can cook something up."

"Most appreciated," Crust waved off, a fake smile forming on her lips, "and do come back soon when you can tell us what it is!"

The slam of the door caused both ponies resumed their emotionless stares. Jet Set decided to play with his fork, while Upper Crust went to view the window. "I must say darling, no matter how primitive these beastly heathens are, I must say the view is absolutley breathtaking."

Jet Set joined his wife to view the stars, nodding in approval, "Luna truly has the artistic talent to concoct such a celestial body as this." For a moment, the two stood there, distracted by the clear sky before they heard the familar slam of the door.

Resuming their cold demeanor, Jet Set turned around, "I do hope there is something on the MEEEEENNNNUUUUU..." He lost his words at the sight of the unicorn before him.

Standing, upright and perfect, was Fancy Pants, monocle included. Although it appeared he had no suit, his enlarged horn and perfect body stature made the couple rub their eyes in disbelief. How could it be that Fancy Pants was here, on this train, without their knowledge?

"Why-why Fancy Pants..." Jet Set stammered, rushing up to shake his hoof, "I-I had no idea you'd be on this train with-"

And that was when Jet Set saw that Fancy Pants was accompanied by a familar white mare whose bright pink mane and pristine body would make any stallion freeze in place. "Fleur dis Lee..."

The super-model unicorn appeared to bite her lip, as if she didn't know what to say before raising her hoof for Jet Set to shake, "A-a pleasure ummmm..."

"...Jet Set..." the stallion almost drooled. To meet Fleur dis Lee again was probably a pleasure few ever had. However, before he could gaze at her beauty any longer he gave a gasp of anguish. "OWWWWW!"

The grey stallion fell to his knees, clutching his hoof while giving an incredulous glare at Fleur. "Fleur...your grip."

"Oops," Fleur pulled back her hoof, checking it as if she was scanning for bacteria, "my apologies Jet Set." She then turned to view the mare standing in the background, a look of envy on her face. "And you must be..."

"Upper Crust," the mare answered grimly, "Jet Set's wife?"

"Oh yes," Fleur fanned herself rapidly, "my memory must be..."

"It's the heat," Fancy Pants interjected, "my wife has been feeling a little ill from all this weather."

Jet Set managed to get up, brushing some dust off his shirt, "Understandable. This weather is truly excruciating to the elite! Why don't you sit and join me and my wife for dinner?"

"Uhhh," Fancy Pants gazed longingly for the door, "I...uhh...we..."

"Would be delighted!" Fleur responded, overjoyed. In the back, her hind leg delivered a quick kick in her husband's shins.

"Yes!" Fancy Pants blurted, a pained expression forming on his face, "absolutely delighted!" If Jet Set and Upper Crust noticed anything, they didn't say.

"Well," Jet Set outstretched his hooves like a waiter presenting a table, "let's have a seat shall we?"

The two couples took opposite sides on the small mahogany table, Fancy Pants and Fleur on the couch near the window, while Jet Set and Upper Crust took two wooden chairs from the parlor. 

"I must say," Upper Crust commented, "it is quite a surprise to me and my husband to see you two on board."

"Well," Fleur fanned herself once more, "we were quite curious about visiting the Equestria capital. What with all the news and all..."

"Oh the news," Jet Set flung a hoof in his face, as if he was blocking out some sort of blinding light below, "absolutely mortifying if you ask me!"

"Why is that?" Fancy Pants inquired.

Jet Set gave Fancy Pants an astonished look, "You haven't heard?"

"I'm afraid I've been a bit distracted with other errands." Fancy Pants admitted sheepishly.

"Well," Upper Crust divulged, leaning closer, "if you didn't hear, Chrysalis and her whole bunch of ruffians are on the loose!"

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"What's up boss?" the cook turned to grin at All Aboard as he stepped in, "those neigh-sayers want me to make a lemon puree?"

All Aboard didn't look amused, simply shutting the door and pulling off his navy blue cap. "Those Canterlot snobs can go jump off this train for all I care."

"Really?" the cook looked bemused, "and here I thought you were from Canterlot?"

"Fillydelphia," All Aboard smiled broadly, "best foalhood years of my life were in that place. You know, we're probably going to have to do another check on the back. Last two carts are apparently filled with investments from Canterlot's you-know-who!"

The cook tilted his head, "Who?"

Facehoofing himself, All Aboard asked himself why he even bothered with these foals in the first place. The Canterlot Bank was trusting them with another transfer to the south. It was the only way towns like Appleloosa still thrived. However, he should have figured they wouldn't trust the engineer or the cook with that kind of knowledge. As the train whistled by, he began to wonder why he became a conductor in the first place. If only he stayed in Fillydelphia and became part of that air balloon show...

Outside, as the train continued against the storm, a hooded figure watched from the cliffs. The cloak covered the stranger's face entirely, but for some odd reason, their eyes were still visible, gleaming yellow as the train came closer. 

Right on time.

With a quick wave of its hooves, there was a low rumble, and suddenly, one by one, shadows emerged from the rocky crevices. They all bore torches and flour sacks that were crudely drawn with holes in them.

"That the train?" a gruff voice asked apprehensively.

"Quite," the stranger's voice seemed to echo across the plains, both gentle and yet cold at the same time, "we must hurry unless we wish to be late."

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It took a whole lot of self-control to keep both changelings at bay. Morpheus and Reflect, no matter how much they wished to beat the snout out of these two, would hold their horns less they get bucked off the train. 

"We'll just keep playing our parts," Morpheus assured his friend on the hive chat, "they haven't suspected us yet have they?"

"No," Reflect acknowledged, "but I swear Morpheus this is the last..."

"Come on," Morpheus grinned, much to Reflects fury, "You make a lovely super model Reflect."

"Buck you," 'Fleur' smiled affectionately, "I don't know how long I can play this stupid git!"

Morpheus had to stifle a giggle, "Oh please, you're doing a great job as it is."

"So..." Jet Set began, curious as to why the couple had been stone solid for almost a minute. If he hadn't known any better, he'd have assumed they were changelings. But then he realized, as Fancy Pants smiled into his wife's eyes, and she returned the favor with an equal amount of passion, that they were simply distracted with each other.

I wish I had that in my life, Jet Set sighed, My wife barely has time to greet me in the morning before she is off with her friends. As Jet Set day dreamed, his wife only began to glower. 

I know that look, she scowled, Oh I know that look. Suddenly, she felt a tear form at the crest of her eye. Why had love chosen these two and decided to forsaken them? Her husband always came back from work, gobbled up a daisy sandwich from the fridge, and slept like a hog on cider in their bed. He never had the time to appreciate all the little things she tried to do for him. But here, even in the middle of such gossip, Fancy Pants and his wife had time to share in a romantic smile, telepathically understanding the words they so dearly wanted to proclaim to each other.

"SNOT BRAIN!" Reflect bellowed in the hive chat, his eyes still casting off that faraway look.

"YOU'RE MOTHER WAS A HOLE-COVERED CRETIN!" Morpheus spat back in a ridiculous accent. Both changelings were, of course, using hive chat, disguising their scowls with smiles and giggles.

She's your mother too!"Reflect scolded.

"Umm," Jet Set tried to smile, "Fancy Pants?"

"Huh?" Fancy Pants turned his gaze to the couple, who both seemed to have jealous look on their faces. How did that happen? Morpheus would never understand Canterlot, despite how much he liked wearing a monocle. Well, at least Canterlot had monocles and moustaches, but after that their lives were pretty bland. In fact, he was quite sure that as far as life went, Canterlot was no different from his own hive. Everyone strived to follow the leader, frequently changing their preferences to suite his or her needs. In fact, the more and more he thought about it, the more and more he felt that Canterlot ought to be composed of changelings!

"We were discussing the changeling business in Canterlot?"

"What!," 'Fancy Pants' felt his heart leap into his chest, thinking for just a moment that perhaps Canterlot was composed of changelings. However, he immediatley dismissed that theory and nodded. "Oh yes, we were indeed discussing the...errr...changeling matter."

"You have anything to well..." Upper Crust began anxiously, "...say?"

"Neigh," Fancy Pants shrugged casually, "I don't think they're much of a bother at all."

"REALLY?" the couples gasped, "but surely, after the attack on our capitol! Or the-"

Fancy Pants raised his hoof for silence, his smile wide. "Listen my friends," he began, "me and my wife here don't see any problem with a few new neighbors in the town. In fact..."

He paused, knowing exactly what he wanted to say and at the same time regretting it. Could he really be this hypocritical? Even if he managed to deceive this couple, would he have deceived himself?

"Go on..." the couple was now hanging on to every word.

Fancy Pants took in a deep breathe, bracing himself for his next words, "In fact, I believe that there is a changeling performing in Canterlot whose skill in the violin would be worthy of the Princesses themselves."

"Really?" Jet Set asked, astonished, "who would this changeling be?"

"I believe the name is Transparence," 'Fleur' answered, winking at 'Fancy Pants', "Transparence is her name."

For a second, the couple said nothing. Looking at each other, they began, for the first time since they married, to read what was on their minds. They hadn't been to a grand performance in quite some time, being thrusted into the Canterlot crowd for so long. But...perhaps...a show would do them some good. After all, wasn't it time they start to embrace the contract they made in marriage?

"I think we might just give it a go," Jet Set smiled at his wife, "honey?"

He's never used 'honey' before his wife thought excitedly, perhaps we should go! She nodded her head eagerly, returning the smile. "I think that's just wonderful!"

"Well," Fancy Pants stood up, "we best be on our WAAAAAAAYYYYYYYY!"
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SCREEEEEECCCH!

The train seemed to brake momentarily, causing both All Aboard and the cook to lurch forward, into the cabinet. Here and there, the passengers felt themselves heaved into the front of their cars, gripping onto any stable surface for support. For a second, it seemed as if the train had come to a stop, before it resumed its steady pace once more.

The cook was the first to get up, lifting a piece of crockery that had acted as his helmet. "What in the name of Celestia was that?"

All Aboard checked his pocket watch, assessing any damage done to it. When he was positive that no harm had befallen his precious possession, he turned towards the door, grabbing his cap in a vain attempt to squeeze it. "I'm going to have a word with Steam." Going towards the end of the kitchen, he trudged up to the bronze colored door of the engine room. 

The engine room was just as productive as ever. The fire was still burning, sending a blazing heat wave that caused All Aboard to adjust his collar. The black, sullen coals were still in their depressing piles. In fact, everything was absolutely perfect except for one thing.

"Where's Steam?" the conductor mused before a well placed hoof lowered itself from the ceiling, poised like a cobra...before it struck his head. Within seconds, All Aboard loss consciousness as he went cross-eyed, collapsing on the floor. 

Coiling down from their position on the ceiling, the hooded figure grinned as it donned an elaborate, purple fedora. "All aboard was it?" It was a terrible pun (HEY THIS STORY IS FILLED WITH TERRIBLE PUNS! DEAL WITH IT!), but one that they preferred. Pulling out a silver device from a well hidden satchel, the figure began to whistle a pleasant tune. Slowly, the coal piles collapsed as several masked, and hat-wielding, bandits crawled out. 

"You know what to do," the figure flicked the little metal ball in one of the bandit's hooves. Catching it with amazing precision, he nodded. "Alrighty then, let's calm these folk down!"

The bandit tossed the device down the compartment with such accuracy it rebounded off the noggin of the cook and into the next car. Rolling ever so slowly, the crowd of distraught passengers gazed at it apprehensively, before the device gave a tiny click. 

Before anypony could react, it discharged a column of smoke. In a matter of seconds, the passengers felt a wave of nausea surge over their bodies as they collapsed, snoring audibly. In a matter of seconds, the masked bandits rushed past them, snatching purses and coins as they went. 

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As 'Fleur' regained her hoofing, she lent a helping hoof to her 'husband,' who took it gratefully. "What was that all about?" They had heard some muffled shouts, but before any of them could discern the noise, they abruptly stopped. 

"Are you alright," Fleur was examining a wound on Fancy's cheek before the stallion waved her off. 

"Tis' but a scratch!"

'Fleur' merely shrugged as she went to check on Upper Crust, who had fallen on her side. The mare allowed herself to be righted on her hooves, turning to check on her husband, who had managed to fall face first into the sofa. "Jet, are you okay?"

"I'm fine," Jet Set rubbed his forehead, "Those imbeciles at the train station ought to-"

The door was suddenly thrown off its hinges as the silhouette of a pony emerged from a plume of smoke. Tossing a tiny little marble, the device began to dispense smoke, which acted as a blanket. In a matter of seconds, Upper Crust felt a feeling of drowsiness as she toppled on the floor, snoring. 

Acting purely on instinct, 'Fleur'-or Reflect-bucked the nebulous stranger through the entrance he had created. 'Fancy Pants' only had time to notice that there were several other shapes moving in the fog.

"What the buck is this?" Reflect exclaimed before he suddenly felt a whiff of the stuff permeate his nostrils. The familar itch that plagued all nostril-bearing organisms soon prevailed once more as Reflect felt his snout tingle. "Oh no, ah...ah..."

"What," Morpheus suddenly felt the gas tickle his snout, "Ah...ah...ah..."

"CHOOO!" and with that, both 'Fleur' and 'Fancy Pants' vanished in a column of green flame, replaced by two rather robust-no lanky-changelings. 

Jet Set, who had managed to stay awake, stared in disbelief, "You're...you're..."But his eyelids grew heavy as he slowly drifted off in a deep slumber. The two changelings stared around them, seeing that the next car was filled with the snores and groans of passengers who had apparently dozed off.

"Sleep gas?" Morpheus questioned, dissipating some of the gas that had gotten too close to his mouth, "how are we not affected?"

"Let's not find out," Reflect grabbed Morpheus, just as one of the moving shapes materialized out of the misty doorway. From what Morpheus could see, the pony was wearing a grey bowler hat, its face obscured by a knapsack as it lunged a steaming pot pie(veggie of course) at them.

Pushing the door open, the two changelings swiftly shut it behind them, the pie splattering over the mahogany surface. Meanwhile, Braeburn, who had been napping during the ordeal, woke with a startle, looking at both changelings as if they had come from a stampede.

"What the hay are you-"

"SHHHH!" Morpheus hissed, "we're being robbed!" There was a muffled clatter on the roof, causing both changelings to look up. The hollow sound of hooves on metal soon began to fade. But neither changeling liked the sound. Somepony was on the roof!

Braeburn was now picking at his eye, "Robbed? Who the buck is robbing-"

BANG! 

The door's hinges came loose as a burly, unicorn stallion broke through, trampling the two changelings. Before Braeburn could finish his sentence, he felt his eyes grow heavy as he dozed off once more, falling on his belly.

Leaping for cover, Reflect and Morpheus slid on the parlor table, before upturning the table for cover. 

One after the other, streams of blue magic, whizzed past them, shattering glasses, china, and anything with the remote chance of being fragile. Even the glass melted when a luminous orange bolt collided with the window.

And then, just as sudden as it had occurred, the firing ceased. Here and there, whatever liquid hadn't been evaporated was now leaking over the shelf, staining the nice oak wood finish. Daring to take a peek, Reflect noticed that the back door at the end of the room was ajar, the cold, stormy sky now sending tiny droplets onto the floorboards. Getting to his legs, the changeling flew off past the door. 

"Wait," Morpheus cried out,"where the buck are you headin' for?"

Reflect turned, his hoof pointed at the door, "Giving them a dose of their own medicine!" 

"Are you insane!" Morpheus frantically gestured with his hooves, "we need to-"

Reflect gave an audible gasp of annoyance and took off, vanishing in the rain. His comrade stared around him, surrounded by a sleeping stallion, a demolished door, millions of pieces of glass that had been pulverized, and an overturned metal pitcher that had housed the peanut butter for dessert. But his book was still there and his bed was...well...still messy.

Morpheus silently cursed himself for allowing his comrade to jettison off on some inane mare-hunt. Reflect may be the intelligence general, but he was just about as skillful a fighter as a filly learning kung-hoof. 

"Idiot," he facehoof himself, "why didn't I try to stop him." Looking around, he shrugged as he went to grab a muffin. "How bad do these things TAAAAASSSSSSSTTTTEEE!

A pair of blue hooves grabbed the changeling and threw him into the bed. Despite his rather soft landing, Morpheus rubbed his-still injured wings, groaning. Facing his opponent, he noticed it was a sky blue unicorn mare, whose top hat looked rather amusing. Narrowing his eyes, the changeling hissed, "Right then, I'll get you for that." 

Releasing a thunderous-well rather weak- war cry, he lunged at his masked assailant. Easily side-stepping out of his way, the unicorn landed a well placed hoof on his wings, causing the changeling to crash into the overturned parlor table. Stumbling to his hooves, he barred his fangs, "Right then, come on! You-you chicken!"

(Once again, Scootaloo had the oddest sensation she was being used again as an insult)

The bandit seemed to grin before delivering a well-placed kick in Morpheus' shins. The changeling only gave a slight moan, before the unicorn finished with an uppercut to his snout, which sent the changeling directly through the parlor table, splitting the wood in two. Slowly, he rose up, limping on his hoof, while still holding a relatively decent boxing posture. One of his eyes was black and bloated, and he had multiple scratches, but he was still grinning, a loose tooth now wiggling in his mouth.

"Come on now, it's gonna take a lot more then that to get rid of Commander Morph-"

Clang! The mare had snatched the metal pitcher, smacking it on her opponents noggin. Soon, stars began to orbit around Morpheus' head as he swayed here and there, his hooves still trying to maintain some sort of stance. "Right, that would do it."

And with that, the changeling fell backwards, toppling over the table before he landed with a dull thud. Sighing at herself, the mare darted out the window.
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The torrent of rain was blinding as Reflect plowed through, watching his step as he slowly, but surely made his way down the cart. He could hear the distorted sound of gears being twisted, and figured they were after the storage compartments stored on the back. Trying to pick up speed, he saw a green flash before a dark shadow tripped him, causing him to land squarely on his snout. 

The wet, slippery surface was a death trap as he slowly slid down, his wings buzzing back to right himself. For a moment, he thought the figure had made a move to help him. But whatever he thought was immediately dismissed when the hooded criminal fired another bolt of green energy at him. 

"SCAT!" The changeling barely dodged the bolt as it sailed down the train and to Celestia knows where. Turning back, he raised his hooves in a boxing position, "YOU WANT SOME OF THIS?"

"Actually," the figure chuckled, "I think I've gotten enough from you...changeling." And with that, the bandit turned around, a misleading sign as Reflect ran forward, seizing the chance. But as soon as he got within a hoof of the nefarious villain, it raised its hind hooves, delivering a swift kick into Reflect's abdomen. His eyes went wide and he felt as if he was going to upchuck his guts as he sailed backwards, away from his quarry.

As he flew, the bandit mockingly waved back. "Enjoy your trip!" 

At the same time, Morpheus had managed to wake up, and seeing that his own opponent had vanished, peered through the back door. "REFLECT! WHERE ARE YOU? I THINK YOU SHOULD COME BACK-OOOOOAAAAFFF!" His companion's comatose body collided with the changeling head-first, sending both of them through the unhinged door.

Nodding in satisfaction that all the passengers were asleep, the cloaked pony greeted the unicorn as she arrived. 

"Trouble?" The hooded pony mused.

"Nothing I couldn't handle," the mare chuckled, leaping over the car, "just another changeling."

Both outlaws turned to observe two bandits sawing off the final pieces of binding. "How goes the construction?" the figure asked hopefully.

"Almost there," one of the bandits yelled over the roaring wind, "just...needs...a...little...FORCE!" And with that, the binding came lose. Turning back to give one last smirk, the figure leapt onto the car, where twenty thousand bits were being stored.

As the train continued on, vanishing in the mist, the stranger felt a sense of elation they had never experienced before. Before, it was just the occasional merchant wagon. But now, they were moving up to trains. This would definetly send a message to the Sheriff in the morning.Wait till Appleloosa get's a load of me!