Chapter 1 First Encounter

They defy destiny and design

What fools traipse before me

Pain to this heart of mine

Why then do I covet and envy?

- Chitania, First Queen of the Changelings

It took months to study the enemy, and months more to infiltrate their ranks. First came unimaginable success, then unfathomable failure. Vanquished now were the dreams of her people. She despaired that she had not been there, even if only to be cast off with her sovereign. She had been in the outskirts when, in a flash, it was all over, sparing her a greater cruelty. Isolated now, she was alone. She could live, but for what end—to fear the executioner’s noose if hunters should capture her? It is said hate and love are opposites, but they are intermingled as passions. Their antithesis is apathy. It was a feeling without feeling, and she felt it now. Without purpose, without mission and without orders, what was there left?

There she was: the Canterlot cliffs. The wicked wind whipped her black hair about as if to beckon her forward. It had always been called a city on a hill, but from up on high, it was more the mountain. A drop assured death. She stepped tentatively to the edge and allowed herself to fall over the edge, closing her eyes, giving herself to gravity and accepting death and darkness.

She hit something, but it was not the ground.

“You’re so light,” whispered a gentle voice.

She opened her eyes. “Let go of me!”

“I will once we’re on the ground,” said the Pegasus stallion holding her. “What were you thinking?!”

She looked at her rescuer, a light brown pony with a reddish mane, and then at herself. The illusion of gray fur was still upon her hooves; she still was wearing her disguise, and to him she was still a pony.

He set her down gently on the ground. “Playing on the edge is dangerous. I swear I talked to them a dozen times about a security rail.”

“Playing?” she asked.

He shook his head of the thought. “Yeah, that’s right, playing!” he insisted, observing her severe expression.

She struggled for a response. “I wasn’t—”

“Hey,” he said, abruptly changing the mood, “let’s get some lunch. My treat.”

She gasped in confusion as the insistent Pegasus grabbed on to one of her legs, pulling her away. She formed a devious grin in her mind. Perhaps a meal might distract her. She could do for some comfort food. Several seconds of eye contact and she could pry open his meager mental defenses like an oyster, and a juicy one at that.

They sat at a table outside a quaint little café, sharing a slice of cake. The ritual of eating did not sate her—she only did it under pretense of avoiding suspicion—but this felt somehow different. She did not detect lust; rather, there seemed to be a genuine concern and sympathy flowing from the Pegasus. Behind his smile there was a hint of a deeper inner-sadness. It intrigued her.

“I didn’t get your name,” he said, examining her pouting expression.

“What’s yours?” she countered.

“Dented Armor. Friends call me Den.” Upon his flank was a shield with a dent in it.

She couldn’t help but laugh. “Haha—‘Dented’? Why not ‘Broken Armor’?”

“Well, dented isn’t perfect, but it’s still good. My dad thought so when his armor saved him from a Griffin lancer. I’m honored dear Dad thought me as something worth his life.” She felt his inner trauma again; it made his pleasant emotions that much sweeter. A purely sensual or superficial pony could not hope to produce such flavor.

She decided to dissect further. “Names are but labels. Your kind always attribute such meaning to them where there is none.”

Den smiled. “Okay, miss Unicorn. I still would like to know yours.”

She could answer his counter-question by giving him any name. So who was she? Den seemed to expect a reply, so she gave him one.

“My name”—she chewed on a piece of cake—“is Echo.”

“Echo?”

“Yes, Echo.” She affirmed, nodding.

“Echo?” Den repeated.

“Echo!” She was now shouting, and noticed the other café patrons staring at her. “You’re doing that on purpose!” Echo snapped.

Den snickered. “Yeah, at least you’re not pouting now.”

Echo caught herself. “I must really get back to… whatever I was doing… This has been a delightful diversion.” She stood up, wiping yellow cake crumbs from her mouth with a napkin.

Den’s smile turned to a frown. “Hey, why don’t we do something else? You like scenery? I know the best views in all of Canterlot.”

“I’m not interested in views.”

“It’s better than whatever you were doing at that cliff.”

Echo hesitated. “I… don’t know.”

“I have some secret passages in mind. I could get us into the palace.”

Echo’s ears perked. “The palace you say? Where the Princesses sleep?”

Echo followed Den through the winding streets to a dead-end alleyway. Perhaps he was a predator like her. She dared him to try.

“So, Dent, do you have ill intentions for me?” Echo mused.

“What?”

“You’ve led me to this closed off area on purpose, one can only assume.”

“Not all dead ends are as they appear.” Den stopped at a white wall, tapping a hoof at it twice. “Old engineering,” murmured Den.

Echo appeared unimpressed and tapped her own hoof impatiently on the ground.

Den shoved the wall. He groaned under the strain. “It’s hard, I know.” The wall section gave slightly with his exertions. “Sometimes you’ve just got to push on.” His efforts were rewarded when the mechanism behind the door finally opened to a staircase. “Follow me.”

How perfect: this hapless fool would take her to the enemy’s keep. Vengeance at last. Even for her sovereign, it took months of masterful, malicious planning to do the same. Her heart sunk when she realized this information was wasted. There would be no more planning, as her people’s army was scattered and shattered.

The winding maze of passages took them to an alabaster tower.

“What is this place?” asked Echo.

“Princess Luna’s residence,” answered Den. “She sleeps during the day.”

“Ah, yes.” Echo nodded. “Nice and defenseless.” Of course, the invasion force had counted on that. Even her mighty sovereign may have been thwarted by the combined might of the Sun and Moon. The Guards that would have awoken Luna were among the first to be silenced.

“You coming?” asked Den, walking up the steps.

Echo arched her neck, glancing around the corner. “What of the guards?”

“They’re trading shifts. We’ve got a short opening.” Den led the way. “Come on!”

As Echo reached the top of the tower, her eyes widened as she saw all of Equestria before her: everything from the frosty caps of the Crystal Mountains to the red wastes of the Badlands, clearer and more majestic than any map. To see cities as tiny dots was empowering, yet the true scale humbled her. It was a transcendental experience to nearly touch the heavens themselves and to be beholden to the splendor below.

Den held his hoof out when she walked too close to the edge, not wanting a repeat of earlier events. “Like it?”

“Yes, I do,” Echo said, still mesmerized by the sight.

“Perhaps there is still enough beauty in this world to make it worth living?” Den suggested.

Echo found herself smiling. She saw Den try to wrap his wing around her and jumped back.

“I’m sorry—too forward?” inquired Den nervously.

“No, you’re not. I just don’t like to be touched.”

“Sorry.”

“No, it’s okay.”

“Come on,” Den said, “We’ve got to go. The sun’s setting and Princess Luna will be awake soon.”

“Wait, where does she sleep?” asked Echo, smiling nefariously.

Den motioned with his head at the door behind them. “Come on, her guards will soon be here.” He gave Echo a slight push, leading her back to the steps returning down.

Den escorted Echo through the streets, which were now illuminated by dim lanterns. She allowed the Pegasus to lead her. The fate of the Princesses could wait. After all, she now knew the route. However, her plans were distracted as she thought of the events of the day and of her new acquaintance.

“Thank you for this…” Echo paused then spoke his name out loud: “Dent.”

He winced slightly at the ugly shortening of his name. “Friends call me Den.” Nevertheless, he managed a smile. “It was no problem, Echo. I thought you needed it.”

“No. Before, at the cliff, I was—”

Den put his hoof to her mouth. “I know. We’ve all been there at some time or other.”

Echo looked at Den incredulously. In their ignorant, blissful lifestyles, what did ponies know of pain? How could he presume to know hers? She bit bitterly, scoffing. “You know of pain?”

He lowered his head. “Yeah, when my dad died.”

Echo took back her bitterness. “I’m sorry. When was this?”

“The invasion.”

Echo gasped. “No.”

“Or, should I say, just after,” Den clarified bitterly. “Dad was a guard captain, one of the last to be captured by the changelings. Following the invasion, the Royal Guard’s prestige fell. The failure shook him up; it was yet another weight on his back. He got drunk and threw himself off the cliff. No wings, you see. He was an Earth Pony.”

“I’m sorry,” Echo said sympathetically. She thought of a parallel to his situation. “I’m missing my mother, so I can relate. She died during the invasion as well.” Echo had seen the motions, and somehow they felt right: she leaned against Den, and they stood together.

Den chuckled lightly. “I thought you didn’t like to be touched?”

Echo jumped again, coughing. “This is my house over here.” She trotted up to the door. “It was nice meeting you, Den.”

“Likewise, Echo,” Den responded warmly.

She surprised herself when, without thought, she made her way back down the stairs and stood close to him, face to face. “When can I see you again?”

“We could meet again at the Grape Café for lunch,” offered Den. “They’re famous for their juice.”

“Why not in the morning?” asked Echo.

“I have morning duties.”

“What duties?”

“Guard duty. I’m a Royal Guard—a Vice Captain, in fact. Today was my day off.” Den smiled as they took leave of each other.

Chapter 2 A Late Date

View Online

Under Celestia’s rule, there had been one thousand years of peace; not since Nightmare Moon’s rebellion had the capital come under assault, much less fallen to an invader. The invasion was a dark mark upon the Royal Guard. Nothing stung more, not even his rejection from the Wonderbolts.

The shame destroyed his father. Suicide for pride. He realized however it was vanity that had lowered their guard in the first place. He would not make the same mistake. He would understand his enemy to their very anatomy.

The Changeling was a foe from foreign lands, capable of magical mind manipulation and shape-shifting. Nature could not design a more insidious agent of sabotage and subterfuge. The thought of something that assumed the form of a loved-one sent shivers to his wing-tips.

Den reached the last of the books on the library table. The aged text was the highest authority on the present matter, quilled by Star Swirl the Bearded himself. He sighed and opened the dusty tome with a flip of his wings.

It was the age of magic, in which prevailed the Unicorn Kingdom, a power unmatched by any. King Amethyst the wise and learned ruled with benevolence, his scepter of light was a torch for the world.

It was then a mysterious mare was found at the doorstep of his kingdom. King Amethyst became smitten with the foreign mare, with her fur of ebony and eyes of emerald. She quickly became his Queen. However, the new Queen was mired in melancholy.

Her happiness being his, the King offered gems and all the material riches of his domain to satisfy her heart. She refused all, asking only for his scepter of light. It was her greatest wish, every night.

She betrayed his love, for ambition was her lust. As his kingdom’s light faded, and as his lover plunged a dagger into his heart, King Amethyst declared:

You with emptiness within:

I curse you with all my hate—

May food and drink never sate—

And may your children inherit your sin!

The next chapter concerned the rocky turmoil of Griffin and Pegasus relations. Disappointed by the lack of further information, Den set aside the dusty tome.

“The Hidden History of Equestria, is it? Remember, reference books aren’t to be taken from the library. However,”—the bespectacled turquoise Unicorn mare fluttered her chartreuse eyes at Den—“an exception could be made for a Vice Captain.”

“Thanks, but I’m done with this book. It has no more use to me. Have you got any more books on the subject?”

The librarian sighed. “You’ve read them all; I watched you. I’ve never known a Pegasus that enjoyed reading so much.”

Den chuckled. “I wouldn’t say ‘enjoy.’ I’d probably reserve that word for Daring Do novels. This is research.”

“Daring Do. I see. Did you read the new—?” The librarian looked about to find Den gone and a window open. She sighed and went about re-arranging the many books he had left scattered about, smiling when she saw a note with some bits scattered on top.

“Quill Heart, buy yourself lunch, on me,” read the note.

The librarian laughed lightly at the note. “You intend to have me for lunch? Perhaps I shall have you.” A brief green glimmer shone across Quill Heart’s eyes, before returning to yellow an instant later.

Den walked the capital streets whistling, for he had a date. He stared at his reflection in a shop window to make sure his armor was shiny and saluted himself with one of his wings. He walked a bit further before arriving at the Grape Café and noticing, as he always did, its obvious purple motif.

From the waitress, he ordered two juice drinks to start off. He scanned the room as he tapped his hooves together and waited.

There she was, the mysterious mare, black of hair with a gray coat. Her green eyes shimmered like rare gemstones. “Hi, Dent,” said Echo.

Den winced but accepted the shortening of his name. He supposed “Den” was too casual and “Dented” was too formal.

“Hello, Echo.”

“I admit,” said Echo, “I am most surprised you are a guard.”

“Well, how else would I be able to get you into the palace?”

“A spy might be able to slip past—or a Changeling,” Echo suggested.

Their drinks were delivered with tiny umbrellas and straws.

“Yeah, Changelings,” said Den. “I know the Royal Guard hasn’t been held in the same esteem after the invasion,”—he took a nervous sip from his beverage—“but that was because we were unprepared and didn’t know our enemy!” Den determinately stamped a hoof on the table.

“And what have you learned?” asked Echo, casually sipping her grape juice through a straw.

“That’s classified,” said Den, smiling smugly.

“I see,” said Echo. She smiled back.

Den abandoned his caution and threw up his hooves. “Well, honestly not much. The most promising lead was that they are the result of a curse.”

“Really? The poor creatures.”

“I wouldn’t say that. It sounded like their queen really deserved it.”

Echo frowned. Den began to think he was losing her attention.

“Hey, I’m sorry for boring you,” said Den. He rubbed the back of his mane.

“No, I find the subject… deeply fascinating.” Echo licked her teeth.

“Really? I guess it is.” Den smirked. “Imagine, monsters hiding amongst us, waiting to pounce!” Den dramatically raised his front hooves.

“I could be one.” Echo delivered a chilling and hauntingly hollow laugh.

“No, a sweet mare like you couldn’t possibly be,” said Den, laughing as heartily as Echo. This caught the attention of a few groups of perplexed café customers, who glanced at them for a moment then returned to their own conversations.

“You don’t know me,” said Echo seductively, with half-lidded eyes.

“I would like to,” said Den, leaning forward. He stared into her striking green eyes. The world seemed to melt away, save for the beautiful mare before him.

“How about you come over to my place and we get better acquainted?” asked Echo. There was a green glint in her eyes. To Den, her voice drowned out all the others and seemed like a lullaby.

The clanging of porcelain plates hitting the table snapped Den back to attention. Echo glowered at the waitress for some reason. Their daffodil sandwiches had arrived.

Den blinked several times. “Hey, let’s get to know each other first.”

“How is it that you know about the myth of the Changeling curse?” asked Echo.

“I read of it in a book.”

“You read?” Echo laughed lightly.

Den frowned. “Hey, Miss Unicorn—the stereotype of the illiterate Pegasus is unfair and untrue.”

Echo smiled but her questioning eyebrow did not lower.

“Okay, so I twisted my wings during training. I kind of became a bookworm in the summer it took for them to heal. It was many years ago. Ever since then I’ve been hooked on books.” Den recalled fondly his summer of pure reading. He missed that time.

“I love reading, especially horror-fantasy,” said Echo.

“You’re a dark one, aren’t you?” said Den.

Echo’s smile turned.

“Oh, I like it,” continued Den reassuringly. “Especially Frankenstallion by that mare Shelly. That gave me goosebumps for a week.”

“That one made me feel sorry for the monster,” Echo said. She stared at her sandwich; the two olives on toothpicks looked like eyes staring back. “All he wanted was a mate. He wandered the world looking for love, only to be rejected.”

“The monster destroyed ponies, didn’t he?” asked Den.

“Don’t you, Mr. Royal Guard?”

Den sipped his drink, thinking. “We mostly fight monsters that wander near the towns and cities. Anyway, it was a sad and tragic tale, but some monsters have to be destroyed.”

Echo pouted, changing the subject slightly: “You did not tell me you were a Vice Captain when we first met. I think an apology is in order. Take me shopping.”

This caught Den off guard. He tried to be smooth. “As you wish, milady.”

Den followed Echo throughout the Canterlot marketplace. He noticed that her stumbling and leading him about was taking them to the luxury goods district.

Many dresses caught Echo’s eye, all of them pretty, and all of them expensive.

“Wow, you’re determined to make me pay for that,” said Den, whistling at the price tags on the dresses.

“Don’t be cheap. I know your pockets are deep, Vice Captain.”

Den contemplated. How expensive could a dress possibly be? They were just bolts of cloth cut into shapes, weren’t they?

He was to be proven wrong. While Echo admired a gold-lined dress with many flourishes, Den shivered at the five digit figure of the price tag. And when she then turned to a diamond-encrusted dress shimmering behind a storefront glass window, he cringed.

After looking at all the dresses, she grabbed the simplest outfit available. It was a plain white gown with gold sequins on the frills. Den raised his brow, showing his surprise at her choice.

“I like simple,” explained Echo. “Sometimes it is easier to think that way: with purity and clarity of purpose. This dress is functional yet has enough flourish not to be ugly.”

“You’re anything but simple,” said Den, with a smile.

“Simple is not bad,” Echo clarified. “My situation is too complex for my tastes.”

Echo whimsically plopped her chosen dress onto the counter.

“That’ll be five—” The clerk’s eyes lit up when he saw Den in his Guard Officer’s armor walking behind Echo, and immediately cleared his throat.. “Fifty hundred bits please. Fifty hundred bits.”

Den grumbled, but gave in under Echo’s and the clerk’s expectant stare. He reached for his checkbook under his armored chest plate.

“Don’t worry. It’s a fine thing you’re doing treating your marefriend like this. She’ll look stunning in it. I’m sure you’ll get … something out of it.” The clerk gave Den a crooked smirk.

Echo protested. “Me, his marefriend? This is my brother, not my lover!”

“I didn’t mean to insult," said the clerk.

“I’m perfectly single. It’s rather lonely, wouldn’t you agree?” Echo stared deeply into the clerk’s eyes.

The clerk stammered. “Well, I assumed a pretty miss such as yourself would already be hitched.”

“Say, doesn’t this tag read fifty bits?” Echo showed the clerk the price tag on the dress.

Behind her, Den noticed a small end piece of the tag flittering toward the ground. It had a zero on it.

“Oh my, that must be mislabeled.”

“I think not. Fifty bits. I’d consider a personal favor. Pretty please.” She lingered on that last word. Her stare intensified.

“Very well,” said the clerk. He nodded dumbly. There was a green glint in his eyes.

Den put his bits on the table. He threw the dress on his back. He was slack-jaw impressed as Echo walked out of the shop with him.

“You’re a shrewd negotiator,” said Den with a chuckle. “I don’t know the price of anything. You sure made a foal out of that shopkeep.”

“Who was the greater foal? You were willing to pay 5,000 bits for this table cloth to impress me. They don’t pay Vice Captains that much. Do they?”

“No,” said Den sheepishly.

“It is touching that you think I am worth a 5,000-bit dress.” Echo arched her neck towards Den.

“I’ve seen crazy prices in the capital. Canterlot isn’t a poor-pony’s place. I don’t like it here that much. Never been to these shops, til now.”

“It is the custom to take any would-be suitor to this street and make him buy her the most expensive dress. The ladies here will bleed you dry. I’m content with just a small bite. Have you never had a Canterlot marefriend?”

Den tripped over his words slightly and confessed: “Nope. Not nowhere. I had to be married to the job to get where I am. I’m not naturally talented. I didn’t make the Wonderbolts.”

“It is the strangest thing for someone to mention their failings during a date. Typically, big boasting is the norm.”

“Sorry.” Den looked away, ashamed.

“Don’t be. You’re honest. I find that sweet.” Echo pecked Den’s cheek with a light kiss, eliciting a small blush from him.

They walked a bit further under the now lantern-lit streets.

Before Den had even noticed that they’d walked into a small alleyway. In front of them, their path was blocked by three ponies. Den shot a glance behind them to see three more snapping shut the trap and closing their escape route. The half-dozen roguish types surrounded them, led by a yellow-coated Unicorn whose bulky muscles hinted at a partial Earth-Pony lineage.

“Look who it is: Dented Armor,” the Unicorn said. “I thought I recognized you in the market. It was good that I followed.”

“Yellow Tail, I see you’ve upgraded from school yard bully,” Den spat.

“I was the school yard boss until you told Principal Cheerilee on me. I got expelled, you bastard.”

“You broke a foal’s leg for fun,” said Den.

“You broke my dreams. I should be wearing that armor! They didn’t let me in the guard because of what you put on my record.” Yellow Tail scowled.

Den matched the yellow unicorn’s gaze. “The Royal Guard has no use for thugs.”

Yellow Tail threw up his hooves nonchalantly. “Anyway, business is business.”

“We’ll be having your valuables now,” cackled a hooded pony.

“I’m still Royal Guard,” announced Den with aplomb. “Leave now and I won’t arrest you punks.”

His bravado faded slightly when the thugs paid no mind to his boast.

“Yeah, we saw how well you guards fared against those bugs,” scoffed a brutish stallion.

“Bugs?” Echo huffed.

“Hand over your purse,” demanded a lean thug, a dagger hanging from the corner of his mouth, “and that lovely dress.”

“And your date too!” cackled Yellow Tail. “I’m going to make you watch!”

Den reared up and smacked a thug to the ground. He kicked back another to create an opening in the swarm of attacking ponies. “Run, Echo! I’ll hold them off!” Den noticed a dagger magically flung towards Echo, and he jumped in front of it. Den bit his lip as the dagger plunged into his neck. He collapsed, his head smacking the pavement.

There was a flash of green followed by screams. As he lay bleeding, his thoughts drifted to home: a grassy field, a cottage upon a hill, and a smiling family.

Chapter 3 The Horror

View Online

The bodies of the thugs lay contorted and twisted in agony. Their limbs had been bent in unnatural positions by magic culminating in snaps to the neck. The last thug was suspended in a sickly green aura.

“How?” wondered the trapped, yellow-coated Unicorn.

Echo laughed, her shrill voice reverberating through the alleyway. “Amateurs, every one of you!” In a plume of green flame she revealed herself to her captive. Her black chitin shone in the moon light. Her eyes glowed a cold jade as she glared at her captive.

“Sweet Celestia! You’re a chang—” cried the last of thugs. Yellow Tail’s brawn was useless as he squirmed. He was firmly locked in place by her magic. He resorted to trying his own magic, though his power was but a gust of wind compared to hers. Yellow Tail’s horn only sparked momentarily, like a lighter without fuel.

Echo throttled the Unicorn for his attempt.

“I’m an elite combat infiltrator. I have studied the arcane arts longer; my magic is far the stronger,” said Echo, her eyes alight with green fire. “Now beg for your life.”

“Please let me live,” Yellow Tail cried.

“No. You ruined my date.”

With her magic, Echo pulled back the unicorn’s limbs like a rag doll. The sound of snapping sinew mixed with his screams. With a twist, the Unicorn’s head snapped, and all was silent.

Echo turned to her date. He had been a perfect gentlecolt, dying in her defense. The dagger still protruded from his neck. Blood seeped from his body.

“You brave foal. I would have blocked that dagger on my own.” Echo kicked Den’s body in frustration.

A slight stirring—Echo’s eyes widened. He was merely unconscious. However, with the amount of blood he was losing, death would soon come. She had to act fast, even against her better judgment, for he was a Royal Guard.

A murky mist clouded Den’s mind. The fog evaporated slowly, and he found himself standing in a field of grass. The wind made waves upon the scene of green.

“Den!” a sweet voice hollered.

Den walked towards it hesitantly.

“Breakfast’s ready!” continued the voice.

Den walked further and entered a door. There before him was a table lined with plates and a hearty breakfast of eggs and waffles. He recognized the furnishings and other accoutrements of the cottage well.

“Eat quickly, son. I’m going to show you how to use a lance today.” A blurred figure of an Earth Pony wearing gilded armor sat before him, laughing, his face obscured by a newspaper.

“Dearie, eat before your food gets cold,” a voice called from the kitchen. Den turned his head, peering into the kitchen, and noticed the figure of an aproned Pegasus washing dishes. Her face was reflected in the window above the sink, but Den couldn’t make it out. Even so, recognition washed over him.

Tears trickled from Den’s eyes. “No, you’re both dead. This is a falsehood. I buried you both in the ground and in my mind. Leave me be!” Den sobbed, bounding outside through the cottage door. Before he had a chance to consider his next move, the scene began to change.

Den found himself floating upward, the cottage becoming so distant that it looked like a foals’ puppet show from afar, his parents within but marionettes.

There came a voice and the form of a gray mare standing beside him. “Usually, the design of this illusion is that it clings to your most recent happy memory. I’m surprised that your happy memory was so long ago.” Her finer features were obscured, but the sound of the voice was undeniably Echo’s.

“How is this possible?” asked Den.

“You were dying. I thought it be best to let you leave with a happy memory.”

“No, I don’t want to remember this! This is the last thing I want to think of!” He turned to the figure of Echo, squinting. “But how are you here? Only the divine ones can walk amongst dreams.”

“They, and devils,” said Echo, staring off into the blackness.

Den jumped. “I’m in a Changeling cocoon right now being feasted upon, aren’t I? I read of this! I’m doomed to relive the same day over and over again. Damn it all—our training told us how to identify it, but not how to escape!” Den stomped his hooves impotently. He groaned at his powerlessness.

“No, you’re being healed.”

Den scanned Echo’s blurred figure in confusion.

“Okay, I’m nibbling a little,” Echo admitted, smiling. “I need energy to heal you, so fair is fair.”

Thoughts of the dagger in his neck came to the forefront of Den’s mind. “That’s right, I was down, not just knocked out. I was dead.”

“You were almost dead. Now I’m bringing you back. That is, unless there is a fond memory you’d like to stay in?” Echo smirked.

“No, I prefer to make more memories. Old ones go stale.”

“We’re in shared dream-space; truly there is nothing you desire to see?”

Den lowered his head. “I don’t imagine anything you could show me would change the past. It wouldn’t save my mom, or stop dad from throwing himself off a cliff.”

Echo smirked. “A realist? I feared as much. But you should know that it is okay to think of the past. Just don’t obsess over it.”

“Echo...” Den thought about the right words to say next in light of this strange predicament. “Thank you.” He approached her for an embrace.

“Wait, no. Stay back, you foal. Don’t touch me!” It was too late: Den found himself in another dream.

The morning sun had barely risen above the horizon. Den found himself in an alien body, like a puppeteer without control. He looked at one of his outstretched hooves—it was full of holes, and carrying a spear. He was one of an array of armed Changelings standing on a cliff overlooking a town. He was startled as he recognized a terrifying visage: the demon in one of the Guard’s wanted posters.

Queen Chrysalis walked down the line inspecting each one of the Changelings. None dared to match her gaze, save the one Changeling he happened to be looking through.

The dark mistress spoke. “My Changelings, children, brothers and sisters, I have taught you the art of infiltration. Now comes combat. With your success you will be ready for your real assignments!” She turned to a Changeling beside her. “Master Amorpheus, are they ready?”

Another Changeling of high stature spoke. He wore a fedora that half-hid his blue eyes. “Yes, they have trained with their spears for months. Of the worms we started with, they are the finest, all weakness weaned from them. They are prepared to kill and be killed in your name.” He saluted with pride.

“Why must we do this? We are not soldier caste. We are infiltrators!” Den heard words coming from his mouth, though they weren’t his, but rather those of the Changeling he was channeling.

“Insolence!” Master Amorpheus growled, his wings buzzing.

Chrysalis strolled towards, smiling and imploring gently: “Explain, child, your reason.”

Den heard his channeled Changeling speak again. “The village is peaceful; our control is consolidated. It is ours. It could feed us for years to come. Why must we do this?” He admired her for standing so bravely against the two larger Changelings.

Suddenly Chrysalis’s face flashed with anger. The obstinate Changeling was met by a sickening smack of her Monarch’s hooves. Den heard ringing in his ears and felt the bloody sore cheek.

Queen Chrysalis turned to her Changelings. “To steel your hearts, my children! You are all soldiers. Assimilation is our people’s greatest enemy. Remember the ponyfolk, for they are but fodder for us. We destroy them this day, not for food, but because we can. They are the means to our end.” Chrysalis’s words were powerful and resonant.

Master Amorpheus stomped his hooves on the ground. “In between larva and fly, where do your loyalties lie?!”

“All hail, Queen Chrysalis!” cried the Changelings in unison.

“Attack, and leave no survivors!” shrieked their Monarch.

Angry buzzing followed as the locusts took wing.

The platoon of locusts landed in the village square. Den wanted out of this memory so very badly, but he knew he could not look away.

“Assume your guises,” cried Master Amorpheus. “They must look upon their loved ones as they are put to our spears. Queen Chrysalis commands it!”

The horde of Changelings shifted their forms. They fanned out in all directions. Screams sounded as they invaded homes.

The Changeling Den occupied had a different path. She flashed with the emerald fires of transformation then buzzed quickly to a particular home. Her flesh became golden and the holes disappeared from her hooves. She still kept her dragonfly-like wings, which throbbed painfully from over-exertion as she weaved through the streets set ablaze. The Changeling stopped at door of a small home. She spat out a key and unlocked the door, bursting through.

A brown stallion greeted the disguised Changeling. “Heart, my love, what is wrong? I hear screams in the village.” The stallion had barely dressed himself in armor. He cradled a lance affixed to a war saddle.

“I... made it.” The Changeling panted, catching her breath.

“Why is it that you have a weapon?” asked the stallion.

The Changeling Heart dropped her spear and nuzzled her lover’s neck. She then spoke urgently. “Constance, my love, we must leave now! Leave everything!”

“You have wings?” stammered Constance, staring at the insect-like protrusions on Heart’s back.

“There will be time for questions. Now, we must go” Heart pleaded.

She ushered her Constance outside.

Smoke rose from the center of village. The haze darkened the morning sun, turning the sky gray. More screams punctuated the scene.

Master Amorpheus landed on the street. The large Changeling was of equal size to the strong stallion Constance.

“Larvi, do your duty,” cried Amorpheus.

“A demon! Stand back, my love,” said Constance, readying his lance and pushing Heart behind him. Constance charged valiantly, but something stayed his lance. In front of him, in a flash of fire, Amorpheus took on the appearance of Heart.

Amorpheus-as-Heart smiled as he plunged his spear into Constance’s chest. The look of betrayal and bewilderment remained on the stallion’s face as he fell to the ground.

“Why...?” He exhaled his last breath.

“No,” gasped Heart, rushing to the dead stallion. Tears welled up in her eyes. She slumped down, reverting to her natural form, the Changeling named Larvi.

“Hurry, the Queen approaches. You must meet her gaze. She will kill you if she sees the tears.” Amorpheus transformed back. He licked the tears from Larvi’s eyes and placed his bloodied spear in her hooves. He rushed to grab the clean spear Larvi had dropped.

With a thud, Queen Chrysalis landed on top of a building, towering over them. “Master Amorpheus, report. I sense weakness in this one.”

Amorpheus saluted. “Larvi did her duty. She slew the guard herself. She laughed in his face as she impaled him.”

Queen Chrysalis flew down as to be on the same level. “Is this true, Larvi, my child?” asked Queen Chrysalis skeptically. “The lancer Constance was quite skilled.”

Larvi looked to her monarch, speaking shakily. “Yes, my monarch, I killed him.”

“It,” Queen Chrysalis corrected. “You killed it.” Queen Chrysalis pulled Larvi close. In perverse tenderness she held her like a foal. “You have made me proud.”

Another Changeling landed, saluted and whispered in Amorpheus’s ear.

“My Queen, the operation is complete,” said Master Amorpheus. “All are dead.”

Queen Chrysalis let go of Larvi. “Excellent,” she said. “Raze the rest of village to the ground. Burn everything. Plant Griffin weapons amongst the ashes.”

Den shuddered at the memory’s intensity. The blackness was beginning to consume him. He wondered which horror he would witness next.

Chapter 4 Love?

View Online

Instead of waking in another dream, Den found himself in a strange, green fluid. He gasped for air but found he could breath even while submerged in the liquid. He was in a cocoon. He looked outside the translucent bubble. A dark form was hunched over the sphere. It too blinked awake with green eyes not unlike those of Queen Chrysalis. Den squirmed violently, causing the creature to jump back. In a gush of green liquid Den broke free of the cocoon.

Den coughed the fluid out of his lungs and on to the wooden floor, then looked up at the black, insect-like creature—it was a monster from the nightmare. Rage and hate still filled his mind of the burning village and dead villagers.

Den looked for a means to defend himself. He snapped off a leg from a nearby table. “Die, demon!” Den charged with the splinter of wood. He impaled the creature and watched it squirm in agony as he pinned it against the wall.

A familiar voice called out to him. “Well, I thought you wanted to get to know me first before you stabbed me with your wood.” The creature chuckled.

Den felt his anger diminish. “Echo?”

“Yes,” hacked the creature, spitting out blood.

“Oh Celestia and Luna, what have I done?” Den pulled the length of wood from the Changeling. Blood spurted out as he did so.

“It is fitting that I am the last,” said Echo, closing her eyes.

“No, I’ll make this right,” cried Den.

Den looked around the small home. A kitchen and living area connected a bathroom and a bedroom. He needed bandages. He flung open cupboards and drawers. In one cupboard, he saw a dozen cocoons with small animals slumbering inside. He ignored that for now. Finally, he found medical supplies in one of cupboards. He popped open the med kit and its contents fell to the ground.

“Stay with me.” Den applied gauze and bound the bandage around her.

Gently lifting her each time, he did the wrap-around. Her skin was soft and leathery, and not the hard armor it appeared to be. When done, he carried her to the small bedroom. He sat by her side, staring at the strange creature as its chest lifted slightly with every strained breath.

Den noticed a slight pain as he arched his neck. He felt for it and found a hairline scar. She had saved his life. He remembered his last waking memory to be a dagger plunging into his neck. Memories that were not his own also flooded his mind’s eye. The last dreams had blinded him with rage. He realized on some level the anger and rage was not his, but hers.

Her home was sparsely-furnished and very neat. However, there was a bookcase in her room that was filled to the brim. He recognized many of the titles as classical works, mostly tragedies. He smiled slightly when he saw a Daring Do novel with a bookmark wedged inside of it. It was one the bedside table. It was the darkest chapter of the series but it was comforting to know she read some modern junk. He opened the book; the bookmark was inlaid on the chapter where Daring had to leave Saddle Arabia and her coltfriend for a greater mission. Carefully, Den set the book back on to the bedside table, next to a dutifully-maintained calendar.

He looked outside her window. Somehow, it was night again, and the pale moon lit up the room through the curtains: he had spent an entire day dreaming. He examined the strange creature thoroughly. Holes seemed to perforate her hooves. Dragonfly-like wings sprouted from her back. Den fell asleep with his head leaning on her bed. He hoped she would wake in morning.

Echo grumbled at the morning sun. It still stung her eyes; darkness was her home. However, part of her infiltration involved learning the habits of the enemy. She stumbled sleepily out of her bed, not noticing Den.

Echo telekinetically opened a cupboard. She took out a small cocoon with a bunny inside it. The rabbit was slumbering in the green fluid-pouch.

Echo smacked her lips. “Huh, I’m not hungry,” she observed quietly to herself. She didn’t feel a ravenous hunger that normally persisted. Somehow she was full. “A light breakfast then.” Her green magic sapped a small spark of energy from the rabbit. She set the sleeping bunny back into her cupboard.

Den stumbled groggily out of her bedroom, startling her.

“Echo you’re awake, and healed,” said Den, embracing her happily.

“Den, you’re in my home? So it wasn’t a dream,” said Echo, stammering.

“Wait, if you, the dream walker, are questioning reality, where does that leave me?”

“A dream within a dream,” Echo said, pointing hoof at his chest. She noticed the holes. She was not disguised. “Look away. I have to change!” Echo pushed Den back.

“Wait,” said Den calmly. “I’ve already seen your true form. I had to touch you to fix your bandages.”

Echo’s face flushed red. She felt her chest where she had been wrapped in bandages. “Scoundrel,” Echo shouted. She immediately flashed into her pony form.

“Show me your true form. Please, I don’t mind.”

“You won’t stab me again, will you?” asked Echo uncertainly.

Den scratched his head. “I’m really sorry about that. You saved my life. You can’t be as bad as they say.”

Echo flashed back to her Changeling form. She was like a miniature version of Chrysalis with the same demonic eyes. Holes covered her limbs. Her hair and mane were like thin ghostly sheets. Her torso, her thorax, was a dark turquoise, and her wings were semi-translucent green. In whole, she nearly matched the diabolical depictions that appeared in stained-glass windows of the palace.

“I’m disgusting, aren’t I? Demonic?” She nervously backed away as Den inspected her closer.

Den took no time to hug her again. “I could get used to it.”

Echo’s eyes were wide in shock. “What’s wrong with you?” Echo looked at Den in confusion.

“I sort of like mares with a mean, misunderstood streak,” said Den.

“This whole thing started with you trying to hug me,” said Echo, now in Den’s arms.

“I’m sorry for entering your memories. You’ve had a rough life, haven’t you?”

“Yours doesn’t seem to be any more pleasant. Your happiest memory was when you were a kid. That’s sad.”

“Then let’s drown in each others’ misery,” Den offered.

Echo said nervously. “Wait, I’ll shift forms.”

“No. I want... you.” Den leaned in and kissed her passionately.

Den and Echo looked into each other’s eyes.

Den and Echo slept on the small bed. Echo was wrapped in Den’s right wing. Their combined warmth filled the little room. They lay on a large pillow and rested their heads as they faced one another.

“That’s the second time you stabbed me,” Echo cooed affectionately.

“Wow, we just did that,” said Den.

Echo pushed herself away slightly. She touched her hooves nervously. “Now that you’re thinking clearly… do you regret it?” She looked to Den for an answer.

Den rubbed his mane. “Usually in the books I’ve read, this doesn’t come until the end. I know I don’t regret it though, not you. I’m not sure what’s next.”

“Ha, I suppose you’ll have to deal with the consequences. It’s naughty to eat your desert before your meal.”

“I accept those consequences. I want you to know that I care about us beyond lust. You saved my life, you care. Also I know it’s not your first time, but it was mine.”

“You were my first as well.”

Den smirked.“First? I don’t believe it you’re too good.”

“You were my first in another, more important way.”

“What’s that?”

Echo paused a moment, then blushed. “I meant in this form. You can imagine our disguises as a second set of clothes.We Changelings are rather sensitive without them,” explained Echo, gesturing to her black carapace.

“Echo—is that even your real name?” asked Den.

Echo grimaced and turned her head away from Den. “It’s Larvi. Echo, is my favorite alias. I’m not sure which I prefer I’ve lived half my life under either banner.”

Den nodded, putting the pieces together. “In your memories I look a lot like your coltfriend Constance. I’m not just a replacement goldfish, am I?”

“It is scary, but I’ve forgotten what he looks like. The image could have been a projection. Please don’t read into it.”

“This Constance—you were really ready to run away with him?” asked Den.

Echo looked contemplatively at the ceiling. “Yes, I was—was ready to deny my duty, even—but that was so long ago. He was my first. I am not who I was before. I’ve become... colder.”

“I just realized we’ve known each other for only four days.” Den looked at the calendar at Echo’s bedside.

“Seems much longer, does it not?”

“Yes, it does. But how do I know you haven’t... you know, magicked me into this?”

“It’s high-level magic and takes incredible focus and power. I tried at the café, but the waiter distracted my attention.”

“Hold on, you tried it on me?” asked Den, alarmed.

“Yeah, sorry. You made me angry by indirectly calling me a monster.”

“You are one in bed.” Den smiled.

“Shush. I’m not done with you yet,” chirped Echo happily.

Den awoke again. The clock by Echo’s bedside read two.

“I have to get to work,” said Den, sitting up on the bed.

“Huh?” said Echo. “Take a day off,” she murmured.

“My schedule’s flexible, but not that flexible. I have to make a report to my Captain.”

“On what?”

Den gritted his teeth. “The Changeling threat.”

“Oh. There isn’t any.”

“What does that mean?”

Echo sighed deeply. “I’m the last one.” Her voice was laden with hints of both sadness and relief.

“How can you be sure?”

“I was sort of important. They’d have contacted me by now.”

“Important how?”

Echo cringed. “I planned the attack.”

Den jumped out of the bed. “You what?!”

Echo sighed. “I’m sorry.”

“How?” demanded Den.

“City layout structural plans. Guard shifts. That sort of thing.”

“That’s how they knew exactly where to hit us,” cried Den. “You planned the most devastating attack on Canterlot since that of Nightmare Moon.”

“I’m sorry, Den,” said Echo, sniffling. “If it’s any consolation, I made that anonymous threat that put the guard on alert.”

Den lifted a hoof. It was all he could do not to hit her. His rage rescinded. “Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why an anonymous threat? If you kept silent then it would have been a total victory for your people. If you turned yourself in and gave us the invasion plans the opposite would be true.”

“Cowardice... indecision... guilt,” Echo said, “I don’t know.”

“It would have been a total loss if we weren’t the least bit aware. You just might have saved Equestria.”

“I put it in danger in the first place. Your father committed suicide because of me.”

Den held her close. “No, if not for you, some other would have done your job. My dad died when mom did. Anyway, you were a soldier. The war is over.”

“Now presenting Vice Captain Dented Armor.”

Den walked into the small throne room and bowed. Princess Cadance smiled softly and motioned that he stand. Captain Shining Armor was less welcoming, as expected of a superior officer.

“Den, last I spoke to her,” Shining Armor said, “Quill Heart told me you’ve been practically living in the archives for nearly a month. I’m interested in what you have to report.”

Den handed Shining Armor a long scroll. “Our soldiers scouring the lands have found small, disorganized pockets of Changelings. The last cell was discovered months ago. They shouldn’t pose a significant threat any longer. In my research, I have discovered little.”

“Hmm, we still should be wary,” Shining Armor warned. “Chrysalis is still at large. We should conduct more screenings.”

“Dear, wasn’t she destroyed in the blast?” asked Cadance.

“She defeated Princesses Celestia in single combat,” said Shining Armor. “I’m not taking any chances.”

“That’s only because she fed on the love you had for me,” said Cadance, smiling.

“You’re right. The Griffin Kingdoms are the greater threat now. Their new War Balloons place their Hawkers in striking distance of Canterlot. We can’t count on the Eastern Sea to protect us.”

“Griffins?” asked Den.

Shining Armor shot Den a stern look. “Yeah, you missed the briefing yesterday. Your lieutenant Blueberry had to collect notes for you.”

“I’m sorry, I was—”

“No excuses,” said Shining Armor firmly.

Cadance unfurled Den’s scroll. “Dear, he looks positively exhausted. He’s been working on this report for a while. It’s very detailed. He’s also lost a father. We shouldn’t be so harsh.”

“I’m sorry, Den,” said Shining Armor. His composure relaxed as he offered words of comfort. “I know it must be rough for you. You father was a good Captain.”

“My promotion—I don’t deserve it,” said Den, lowering his head.

“Hey, you’re not just filling your father’s shoes! You’re a damned-fine officer. I wouldn’t have promoted you otherwise.”

“Yes, sir.” Den saluted.

“You can go get some rest now,” said Cadance kindly.

Den added: “Yes, I’ve also recently discovered that the existence of Changelings might have been the result of a curse. In the future, when we find them, it may be more kind to capture them. We may be able to lift the curse.”

“This beginning portion recommends extermination,” said Shining Armor, looking over his wife’s shoulders.

“I may have been too harsh. I just lost a father. The Changelings aren’t mindless monsters. We’re just as cruel if we treat them like they are.”

Cadance raised an eyebrow. “That’s very compassionate of you.”

Shining Armor nodded. “We will consider your new thoughts, but we can’t risk our guards trying for live captures if the Changelings aren’t willing.”

Den walked down the white marble palace steps.

“How was it?” said Echo, who was waiting for him.

“I recommended live captures if any more of your people are found.”

“Den, you didn’t have to do that. Not for me.”

“No, you just put things in perspective for me.”

“We should get you dinner.”

“Well, now that I think about it, I haven’t eaten in a while,” Den admitted in surprise.

“The cocoon I made sustained you. But it’ll soon wear off. When it does you’ll really feel it if you’re on an empty stomach.”

Den and Echo found a fancy restaurant that was still accepting customers. They sat by the candle-lit tables in an open area. Again, the moon watched over the proceedings.

“So, Echo, what will you do now?” asked Den.

“Huh?”

“The war’s over. Chrysalis is gone. You can live your life.”

“What will I do?” Echo pursed her lips. “Hmm, maybe a certain stallion.”

“You’re getting two dinners tonight? Won’t you get fat?” Den chuckled.

“Never. I’m forever cute.”

“Seriously, what do you have planned? No more playing on the edge of cliffs, okay?”

Echo lowered her head. “Honestly, I don’t know. My life has always been about completing missions and following orders.” Echo gazed into her wine glass.

“Well, then that settles it! You’re becoming a guard. I’ll give you plenty of missions and orders.”

Echo laughed eerily. “No way! That would be too ironic.”

“I need a second helper. Blueberry’s nice, but she’s not book smart.”

“Your lieutenant, she’s a she?” asked Echo, with a pang of jealousy.

“Umm, yeah. Hey, we’re just friends. I wouldn’t do the stuff I do to you with her. She’d kill me.”

“Maybe I will join the guard. I could show you lance jockeys a thing or two.” Echo laughed lightly. “But what if I’m discovered?”

“Umm…” Den looked worriedly. “We’ll out you. I’ll tell the world.”

“I’m just joking. I can’t be a guard. The things I’ve seen and done…”

“Let that go.”

“You don’t know me as well as you think.”

“I’ve seen your memories.”

“You’ve seen some…”

“You healed me.”

“If you hadn’t discovered the illusion, how would you know that I wouldn’t have kept in you in that cocoon?”

Den looked away from her.

Echo smiled. “The love I’ve received from you is the most intense I’ve experienced. I suppose that’s because it’s direct. It’s touching. However, Den, I don’t think I could feel the same way about you. I’d only hurt you. Even now the temptation to stick you in a cocoon and drink you dry is with me. You’re prey in my eyes.” Echo lowered her head.

“Who said anything about love? Maybe I’m just a hunter, like you.” Den tried to smirk.

“I can feel these things,” said Echo, sipping the last of her wine. “You don’t have to even say, it’s transparent.”

“I want to say: Echo, or whoever you are, I love you.”

Echo shook her head. “It’s most likely infatuation. Your social mores are different. Often your kind conflates lust with love. I need time to think.” She got up from the table.

Den reached out. “Don’t shut me out. Let’s meet again at the café tomorrow, noon lunch.”

Echo looked back but gave no confirmation.

Echo wrenched open the door to her small home. Her smile had wilted and she stepped slowly into the small lonely home. A cold breeze wafted in through her home, she noticed a window was open.

A gray stallion with a fedora sat waiting in the shadows. He stepped forward as to be seen. “In between larva and fly, where do your loyalties lie?”

Echo gasped and instinctively recited the accompanying phrase. “All hail Queen Chrysalis,” she whispered. “Master Amorpheus.”

Chapter 5 Loyalty?

View Online

The gray stallion with the fedora shifted his form in a plume of green fire. The Changeling smiled. “Larvi, it’s been many moons since we last spoke.” He smiled and his fangs shone in the moonlight.

“Master Amorpheus.” Echo bowed. “I thought you were destroyed.”

“So long as my monarch needs me I am not permitted to die. It was an order she explicitly gave me.” Master Amorpheus looked fondly into the distance. He returned his attention to Echo. “I see you’ve seduced a Royal Guard. Most impressive. It may yet be the framework for another invasion.”

“Our Queen lives?” asked Echo unsteadily.

“Yes, but our army has but a shadow of its former glory,” said Amorpheus, scowling. “We have had to promote workers to soldiers. However all is well. In soon enough time, we’ll have a greater force than when we first invaded. I will tell you our plans later. For now, our Queen has secured us another source of love.”

The word love stung in Echo’s mind. “Master Amorpheus, can we Changelings even feel love? Does our Queen?”

Her face was met with a smack of Amorpheus’s hooves.

Amorpheus snorted angrily. “Before your birth, when our people were banished to the badlands, our monarch sustained them, the hungry hordes. She fed them all, spreading herself thin. She gave love when there was none to give. She hid it well, but I saw her legs quake and shake from exhaustion. She fed them from her life essence when the reserves had run dry. If that is not love, then I do not know what else is! I resolved then to serve her unto death.”

“I am sorry,” said Echo.

“The whimpering of worms! So she does not give you tokens of affection as often as you like. That is because her love is greater.”

“You alone have done so much for me. I believe in you.”

Amorpheus sighed. “Believe in our Queen.”

“Tell me the secret dream of our people again,” Echo pleaded.

Amorpheus looked uncomfortable at the request. “Larvi, it is a tale told to fresh maggots, not to fully trained soldiers of her majesty.”

“Please.”

It was the age of magic… Our people were fair of hair and love lit our streets in abundance. Our Queen Chitinia (Ki-tan-nia) was a sight to behold, splendor beyond compare. She ruled with might and majesty, for she bore the Scepter of Light. However the light is not without shadow.

The Unicorn King Amethyst, covetous of all things, sent many envoys and gifts to our Queen, hoping to seduce her. Clever and wise, she was not tricked with trinkets. It was only with the encroachment of his armies and threat of war did she acquiesce to be his.

It was not enough that the kingdoms were joined. King Amethyst desired even greater power. In hubris, he stole the Scepter of Light, wishing to wield it as a weapon. Our Queen did battle against him, but in shattering the scepter, darkness consumed all.

In the absence of light, creeping shadows took hold. They became the first ones. Being no longer the fair forms we once were, they saw us as monsters, and drove us underground. However, Queen Chitinia did not abandon her children. She led our people to survive and, in time, thrive.

We inherit the curse. However, hope is not lost, for it was foretold that with enough magic we might become complete. We gatherers collect so that one day we may be free, all the while chanting:

Hear the call that echoes through our hall

If not for us then those thereafter, so—

Changelings be small or tall, listen all,

One day we will become whole.

By the end of the story, Echo had curled up alongside him. Master Amorpheus was uncomfortably petting the ghostly mane on Echo’s Changeling head.

“I’m sorry, Master Amorpheus. I lost sight of our goal.”

“Larvi, I must relay orders to our other contacts. The Queen shall be glad to hear of your safety. The guard—he’s in your power, no?” Master Amorpheus gently set Echo back.

“How long did you listen at the restaurant?” asked Echo nervously.

“I noticed your disguise when you were leaving,” said Master Amorpheus.

Echo sighed in relief.

“The way he called after you was all-telling. You’ve got the foal eating from your hooves, haven’t you? He has no idea you’ll be his doom,” Master Amorpheus said deviously.

“Yes.” Echo winced.

“Truly a master-work. Playing hard to get only makes you more desirable, but do reel the line in. Get closer to him. Join his Guard division. A Vice Captain is useful to us.”

“Is that an order?” asked Echo, meekly.

“You know it is,” said Amorpheus, smiling, “Rejoice, we shall return stronger than ever with the power to devour this entire land.”

Den entered his office in the barracks. A stack of crudely-written notes were piled atop his desk. He recognized the misspellings and grammatical errors to be the hoofwork of his lieutenant, Blueberry. For the word Griffin she tried many variations—“Grifen,” “Griffin,” “Griphin”—but finally scratched it all out and drew a picture of an angry bird. He didn’t have time to decrypt her scrawlings. Den pulled out his bed from the wall. He fell asleep wishing Echo was beside him.

The rays of light glared through the barrack windows. He woke up groggy-eyed to a glorious morning. Echo was still on his mind. The night had been a haunting and beautiful sight, but it might have only been a dream. His vision cleared, and he could see his messy desk.

“Vice Captain!” A voice was followed by a knock on his office door.

Den sprung up from his bed. “What wrong, Blueberry?” he asked his lieutenant.

An azure-colored Earth Pony busted through the door. “You! Lazy bum! Ya’ve been gone five days!” Blueberry poked him with an accusatory hoof.

Den recoiled. “Hey, easy now. I had that report due, remember?”

“Well, I talked to Quill. She said you were only at the archives for a day. That there still leaves some days left-over.” Blueberry put on a self-satisfied grin.

“I have weeks’ worth of leave days. I haven’t taken a break. My vacation days are probably up to a year now.”

Blue tried to raise a hoof to object. “Argh. Why didn’t you at least go with me to submit the report?” Blue pouted.

“Because I wrote it. I still credited you, even though you didn’t pick up a pen to help.” Den crossed his hooves.

“Still...” Blue looked at her hooves furtively.

Den smiled at Blue’s loss of words. “Let’s go. We’ve got a batch of new recruits to inspect. I’m sure you’ll be wanting to beat them in yourself.”

The courtyard swarmed with activity. Guards and trainees had crowded around to see the conclusion of a sparring match. Everyone focused on a single Unicorn.

“One of the newbies challenged the instructor, and won!” said an astonished guard.

Den and Blue looked at each quizzically and pushed through the crowd.

“What’s going on here?” cried Blue.

It was Echo affixed with a war saddle and a practice lance. She proudly loomed over a beaten orange Pegasus.

Den was flabbergasted. “Echo!”

“Hi, Den!” Echo waved a hoof.

Her familiar tone with the Vice Captain turned everypony’s attention towards Den, Blueberry’s especially.

Echo faced Den. “Come on: show me you’re as good a fighter as I’ve known a lover!” she said, rearing to go.

Den blushed; however, it was Blueberry that rose to the challenge.

“That newbie needs to be cut down a notch!” Blueberry asserted. She had already pulled a war saddle from a recruit and lined herself for a charge.

“Who are you?” asked Echo challengingly.

Blueberry lunged at her. “I’m his lieutenant!”

Echo sidestepped her, but became wide-eyed by her speed. Blue smirked as she whipped her pole around. Echo laughed as she ducked. Echo was able to block Blueberry’s second strike with the training pole. Echo got in close and prepared a back-kick. Blue jumped back. The two mares stared each other down.

Blueberry snarled. “Where’d ya learn the pole, hussy? At the club, I’m betting?”

Echo bit back. “You would know you, you blue tart!”

Blueberry ran ferociously towards Echo. Even with the dulled pole-tips, she might have skewered her opponent at her insane speed. In a flash of green, Echo pulled Blueberry’s mane across her eyes, then, with her hooves, redirected Blueberry’s lance tip into the ground. Blueberry was catapulted helplessly into the air as her harness snapped.

“Ha, you are utterly destroyed!” Echo boasted. “Is there any other willing test their skill against mine?”

Blueberry flew and bowled over a squad of recruits. On the ground, Blue looked back at Echo with eyes sharpened. The recruits scuttled away from Blue as her rage boiled to steaming.

“Up for a rematch? Huh?” Echo planted her feet on the ground and wiggled her legs readying for Blue’s second assault.

Blueberry surprised everyone by bawling. “No fair. She cheated!” She began crying. The show was over, and the crowd dispersed in awkward silence.

Echo was completely taken aback by her opponent’s sudden breakdown.

“I win.” Den bopped Echo softly on her head with a practice lance. “That wasn’t nice.”

“Hey, she started it,” said Echo.

The three of them sat together in the mess hall. Introductions had been made, albeit grudgingly. They ate from a shared large tray of hay fries. Blueberry’s tears were stifled as she consumed copious amounts of ice cream from a tub.

“Echo, I’m glad you joined the guard, but was there way that you could have done so without be so showy?” said Den.

Echo said, simply: “Nope.”

“You’re still a cheater,” Blue said, sniffling slightly as she inhaled another glob of chocolate ice cream.

Echo stuck her tongue out like a snake. “I could have done more with my magic than just that.”

“You could have held back,” said Den. “The purposes of those exercises is to train just your lance work.”

“Is this how you train? No wonder you were beaten. In combat, the only restriction is your imagination. Isn’t that why you have begun to integrate all three races into the Royal Guard? Of course, you have race specific units, like the Pegasus Wonderbolts, when shock troops are called for, but generally most threats aren’t so specific.”

“That is a very analytical and detailed summary of modern Equestrian military philosophy,” said Den, impressed.

“You’re super serious and smart,” said Blue, mouth agape. “You’re like Den. I’m supposin’ that’s why he chose you.” Blue lowered her head.

“I’m sorry,” said Echo in a conciliatory tone. “No hard feelings?”

Blue smiled, licking the ice cream from her lips. “I have plenty of hard feelings. Did I mention I like mares also?”

Both Echo and Den nearly choked on their hay fries.

“Blue!?” Den shot her a look of incredulity.

“Yeah, if you don’t treat her right, I just a’ might take her from under ya wings Mr. Pegasus!” smirked Blue.

The ice warmed over. They left Blueberry on good terms. Den and Echo strolled through the barracks.

“Lovely Lieutenant of yours,” said Echo.

“You have to be on all four hooves for that one. She develops a crush on everyone who defeats her,” chuckled Den. “I can’t believe you’re here with me though.”

“Of course… Commander,” said Echo wistfully.

“But I want you to quit if I’m your only reason.”

“What? Didn’t you want this?” Echo stammered.

“Yeah, but this isn’t about you or me. Equestria is a beautiful land. Sure, we’ve got our problems, but love flows here. I’m willing to defend that. You spoke of missions; that is my mission.”

“What matters of a nation? Couldn’t it just be you and me? All else be damned?”

Den sighed. “The war is over. Save for the Griffin incursions, there’s no real threat. I think you could find a home in Equestria.”

“Hypothetically, if you had to choose…”

Den considered the question for a long moment. “Equestria,” answered Den painfully. “Because I couldn’t have you without it.”

Echo paused. “I will believe in you, Den.”

Den gave her a concerned look. “In time, I think you’ll understand.”

Echo spoke slowly. “There’s something I must tell you.”

“Yes?” said Den.

Echo looked into Den’s kind eyes and soft face, her own face twisted in guilt. She looked off and then surrendered the thought for good, or for another time. “Umm... I’m hungry.”

“We just ate.”

“My other hunger,” said Echo with a mischievous smile.

Den panted deeply. He flexed his wings and lay exhausted beside Echo. The office bed creaked as he lay down. Echo buzzed happily, her insect wings almost chirping.

“Hey, so you can take any form…” said Den with a mischievous grin.

Echo laughed. “I thought you’d never ask. Tell me, do you have a request?”

Den touched his head. “Well, I don’t mean to be profane. But maybe on a special occasion…”

“Yes, lover?” inquired Echo, rubbing her nose against Den.

“…Luna…” squeaked Den.

“You’re positively naughty!” Echo laughed in her usual hollow devilish reverb.

“How does love energy work? I won’t get sick from you taking it, will I?” asked Den.

Echo sat up and looked over Den. Her ghostly mane dipped down touching his head. She licked her fangs. “You ask me now after you’ve already climbed into bed with me?”

Den nodded nervously.

Echo fell back besides Den. “Silly, it’s called making love for a reason. There are other methods, such as absorbing it from ambient spaces, or directly drinking you dry to a husk.” Echo giggled.

Den gave a wry smile. “I do feel sleepy after we—”

“Dear, that happens to all males,” said Echo. “Anyhow, love as energy is quite powerful. One could get high on it.”

“How come your people can’t just form natural relationships or love one another?” asked Den.

Echo turned away from Den. “It is not so simple. Remember that your first reaction was to stab me? Changelings can’t generate love, at least not the sort that we can feed upon. I don’t know why this is the case. It has been a question for our history’s ages and mages.”

“So what is all this then? I’m just food?”

“You get spectacular sex, don’t you?” Echo nibbled on Den’s ear.

“I’m serious,” said Den, rebuffing her advance.

Echo sighed. “I know the motions well. We have rehearsed them many times. I’m not sure if I’m acting. I’m scared to say which.”

“Echo, you just joined the guard and surrounded yourself with tons of ponies trained to hunt you and yet acknowledging your emotions is what scares you? I’d say your feelings are genuine.” Den, smiled, nuzzling her neck.

Echo could not look him in the eye and simply kissed Den on the forehead.

Chapter 6 Invasion!

View Online

Across the Eastern Sea, a ship of metal defied gravity. Slicing through clouds, the craft left smoke and ashes in its wake. Emblazoned on its metal hull was the sigil of the Griffin Kingdoms: a golden hawk wreathed in a dark circle of feathers. The invention was the antithesis to the magical; it was a mechanical answer. Gears churned and hummed in metronome as great propellers on the craft’s side turned. The black blood-stones of the earth burned with hellish fire as they were fed into the engines. Inside, two figures walked through the corridors of the airship.

Walking proudly was a Griffin with a white-feathered head and golden-brown body. He was handsome, the idealized archetype of his people. “The new advisor of his, she shakes her tail feathers,” he said to his companion, “and my father bows to her every whim like a slave.”

A female Zebra followed him. She was magnificent as well, with toned musculature hidden behind her monochrome coat. “Reagle, it is my fault.”

“No, Zaza, stop thinking like that,” said Reagle.

“Our marriage will bring your father no heirs, so he desires to sire another son,” said Zaza calmly.

Reagle stopped walking and pulled Zaza’s head to face him. His predatory eyes relaxed. “Your parents were none too happy about me, either. I care not now, for you are my chosen. Zaza, you are mine, and I am yours.”

The zebra blushed. “I thought you just liked me for the Zebra King’s armies.”

Reagle kissed Zaza full on the mouth with his beak. “If power was what I was seeking, by your logic, shouldn’t I marry a dragon?”

Zaza chuckled. “A dragon? She’d have to fight me to get you.”

Reagle looked away from her and stared outside a porthole window. He saw his own reflection. “Anyhow, it is not our union that upsets my father—it is the Equestrians’ monopoly on magic. The black-feathered witch has promised him the mages in order to wage war. An egg is incidental. She awakens the worst in father: his ambition, and his lust for power.”

Zaza leaned against Reagle. “Where to now, my prince?” said Zaza, wiggling under his wings.

“I go to show my father we needn’t magic to conquer simple ponyfolk. Our technology is our people’s power. I will assemble my Hawkers and War Wing.”

“I’ll prepare our Zebra Zerkers for deployment," said Zaza confidently.

“Onwards we shall conquer Manehatten!” Reagle gestured grandly with his wings.

From the hatches of the great ship poured Griffins in numbers so great they blotted out the sun. In the cargo holds, hundreds of Zebras tapped their spears rhythmically against the metallic floor of the hull. On the horizon was a city upon the coast.

Den and Echo awoke to heavy pounding on the office door.

Blueberry finally broke through. She thought she saw a black horn. Echo reappeared from under the sheets in her disguised form. Blue blushed.

“I’m sorry!” said Blueberry, looking away.

“I thought I locked that door!” said Den angrily at Blueberry.

The blue-coated mare replied swiftly: “Den, emergency meeting. No one can miss this one.”

The Princesses sat in the main council room, a massive auditorium with a concentric circle of tables. Guards of various ranks sat on the level rings. Den sat on the second row along with other Vice Captains.

“The Griffins should have no reason to attack us,” said Shining Armor, scratching his chin with his hoof. “Not now, at least.”

A wounded Royal Guard Pegasus was there to testify. Part of his flank appeared scorched by fire. “It is true. I flew here after I saw that the battle was lost.”

“We should send another diplomatic envoy. Surely this is a misunderstanding,” said Celestia.

“No sister, we should send our full force. This insult cannot stand!” cried Luna in her booming voice.

“It could be a diversion,” said Twilight Sparkle. “It’s warfare 101. We should send only a third of our forces.”

Shining Armor nodded. “Twilight’s right. They can reach Canterlot with their new War Wing Balloons. We can’t leave the capital undefended.”

“A decade ago, we were all friends. How did it come to this?” asked Celestia, sadly.

“I’ll go and meet our enemy,” said Shining Armor.

“I’m coming with you,” said Cadance and Twilight simultaneously.

Shining Armor turned to Cadance. “No, you must shield the capital as I protect our troops,” he said.

Celestia addressed Twilight. “Twilight, we need you here to use the Elements of Harmony, if it comes to that.”

“Yes, Celestia,” said Twilight.

“Shining Armor, take with you as many guards as you need. Bring to the Griffin commander terms of a peaceful resolution if they withdraw. Go with my blessing.” Celestia then became disturbingly severe in her expression and tone. “If necessary, liberate Manehatten from Griffin claws by force.”

Den, Echo and Blue walked with Shining Armor through the Canterlot gardens.

“Just like the academy, huh, Captain?” asked Den.

“Den, this isn’t at all like the academy,” said Shining Armor grimly.

“Yeah. We always trained in case of an attack, but I never thought it would be happening for real," said Den rubbing his hooves nervously.

“I want you and your troops to be in our reserve guard,” said Shining Armor.

“Reserves?” Blue protested. “We’re going to be bench warmers? I know we’re the newest division, but...”

Shining Armor stopped walking. “I’m going into the thick of things. It’s quite a risk, to be sure. I need backup just in case things go sour.”

Echo raised a hoof. “Captain, shouldn’t you send more scouting parties first? You don’t fully know the strength of your enemy. It’d be foolish to launch an attack.”

“Who is this?” asked Shining Armor kindly.

“She’s Echo, my marefriend, and lieutenant,” said Den.

Blueberry coughed loudly.

“Second lieutenant,” Den corrected at Blue’s behest.

“That’s me,” said Echo.

“Echo, you’re completely right,” said Shining Armor. “However, time spent scouting is time they have to dig in. It’s a trade-off. If the Griffins get a claw-hold it’ll be harder than ever to oust them. Mobilize! We move out immediately!”

The Royal Guards gathered. Other soldiers crowded into cramped passenger carriages and even cattle cars; Den, Echo, and Blue sat in the officer’s carriage of the troop train.

“The officer’s carriages are nice,” remarked Echo, feeling the fine red cloth upholstery with her hooves.

“These here luxury cars... we sort of... borrowed dem,” Blue said with a grin.

“I still can’t believe we’re going to… war,” said Den thoughtfully.

“Shucks, those Griffins might even go peaceful-like when they see our forces,” said Blue.

“That is surely not going to happen,” said Echo somberly.

“Then we’ll drive those feather-brains back to the sea!” cried Blue.

“Have you ever been to war?” asked Echo.

The train jerked forward as it began rolling.

“I fought off five of dem damn Changelings in the Canterlot invasion!” said Blue proudly. She hushed her voice. “Before I was captured.”

“I wasn’t stationed at Canterlot; we were out in patrol in Everfree,” said Den.

“Canterlot does not count,” said Echo coldly, “There was no real battle. You were taken out before you could even send a Pegasus off a runaway.”

Den flexed his wings. “I understand that this time we can expect a fight. Our foes know we’ll be coming and we know they’ll be expecting us. We need to get some sleep so we’ll be ready in the morning.”

The train stopped at dawn, just as the silhouette of the city came into view. The train engine steamed to a halt. The Royal Guard force disembarked from the troop trains. The Royal Guards assembled into line formations, their golden armor and steel-tipped lances gleamed in the morning sun.

Shining Armor, Den, Echo, and Blue stood on a hilltop observing the city in the distance. A vast field separated the city and the hill.

“Thank you, Twily,” Shining Armor said appreciatively to himself. A large telescope was put in place with some help from a couple of other guards.

Each took turns looking through the telescope. On the outskirts, a group of Griffins were uprooting metal beams.

“They’re destroying the rail lines,” said Den.

“They’re smart. They know our railways are our main means of troop transport. Manehatten is the central rail hub,” explained Shining. “No sign of their new War Wing balloons. I wonder if they sent them to attack elsewhere.”

Den stared at pony-shaped forms in the distance. They had a striped coloration. “I don’t believe it. They have Zebra Zerkers.”

Echo looked at squads of Griffins patrolling above in a circle. “Griffin Hawkers?”

Blueberry’s face scrunched up in thought. “Zebra Zerkers? Hawkers? Never heard of dem.”

“Zerkers are Zebra soldiers who drink brews that numb their pain in battle,” said Echo.

“The Hawkers are Griffins infamous for dive bombing,” said Den.

“Arghh, how come you guys are always in the know?” huffed Blue, shaking her head.

“Combined arms tactics: the Zebra serve as ground infantry, and the Griffins as air support,” Shining Armor explained.

“It’s a lethal combo,” Echo added.

Shining Armor boasted confidently: “They’re missing a card.” He sent a spark of magic through his horn.

The army of Royal Guards had finally formed themselves in a fighting array. Earth Pony and Unicorn troops marched while Pegasus fliers secured the skies. Muscled Earth Ponies wheeled forth massive wooden and metal contraptions from behind the infantry. Den and his friends remained on the same hill. Griffin and Zebra battle lines were forming in opposition of the Royal Guards.

“Attention, soldiers of the Griffin Kingdoms and Zebra Confederation, this is Captain Shining Armor. We seek peaceful res—” Shining Armor was cut off by a horde of Griffins flying towards them.

All at once, the Griffins veered from the troop formations of Royal Guards, but not before releasing small black balls. The bombs exploded against a magical barrier made visible by the fire.

Earth Ponies wheeled forth the contraptions and aimed them upwards.

“What are those?” Echo inquired of Den.

“This is something I know!” said Blueberry, proud of her mechanical genius. “Those are ballistae. They’ll puncture holes in Griffin war balloons. Those chickens are roasted.”

Powerful Earth Ponies pulled cranks that drew the strings to the ballistae. Other Earth Ponies with miniature versions of the ballistae readied as well.

“Fire!” cried Shining Armor.

The majority of the Griffins flew upwards out of range of the arrows. The slower Griffins were pelted by the deadly barrage and dropped from the skies. The remaining arrows landed into the Zebra troop formations. The Zebras turned to their side, the arrows harmlessly impacting the shields on their flanks. However, the few arrows that did hit flesh did not cause the dying Zerkers to bray or scream. Stoicism was uniform amongst the ranks of monochrome Zebras. Even the wounded did not flinch at the arrows stuck to their flanks. The Zebras calmly brushed off the arrows stuck to their shields after the barrage was over.

The front line of Royal Guards gulped nervously at the undaunted Zebras.

A single Zebra in golden armor shouted to her compatriots: “That shield we cannot defeat. My warriors, retreat!”

A Griffin in golden armor and a red cape flew above the Zebra line. “Pull back, Hawkers!”

The enemy ranks seemed to disperse. The Royal Guards were now confident.

“They’re retreating. Advance!” cried Shining Armor, his horn glowing.

“I guess Shining Armor was right,” said Den. “Without magic, they can’t do much.”

“No, I don’t think it’s that simple,” said Echo. “You see, I’m a girl. We like to play coy. And my dating instincts are telling me they should have put up more of a fight before running. The Zerkers are famous for standing their ground.”

“You think it’s a trap?” asked Den, alarmed.

Before the Royal Guards clashed with the enemy lines they stopped in confusion. A loud humming like the buzzing of hornets filled the battlefield. From the fog, behind a cluster of buildings, the massive metal ship emerged. The source of the sound came: huge propellers that carried the vessel forward. The ship cast its shadow across the rows of Royal Guards.

“Ballistae and mages, fire! Take down that war balloon!” cried Shining Armor.

The Earth Ponies fired their ballistae while Unicorns in the Royal Guards discharged elemental bolts of fire, lightning and ice.

Arrows and magic bolts bounced off the metal structure.

“Our intelligence was wrong. That is no balloon!”

From beneath the airship, doors opened, and tons of barrels were dropped from the craft. They exploded against the shield. After a few minutes of continuous heavy bombardment, the shields could no longer be sustained, and failed. Entire Royal Guard ranks were blown apart by the explosions.

Amidst the chaos, the Zebra and Griffin lines reformed. The Griffin Commander flew to the Zebra leader’s side. They gave each other an affectionate nuzzle.

“Attack!” shrieked the Griffin.

“Okay, we’re humped!” said Blueberry panicking.

“No we’re not. We’re Shining Armor’s only hope now,” said Den.

Echo stared at the airship circling around. “We need a plan, quick. A second bombing run and the Guard is finished.”

Through the telescope, Den scanned the battlefield desperately. The battle was turning into a brutal melee. He saw there was a small opening in the lines as overzealous Zebra Zerkers charged into the weakened right flank of the Royal Guards. There was a clear shot to the Griffin and Zebra commanders.

“We will capture their commander. It’ll be a reckless run,” said Den.

“Don’t you mean suicide?” asked Echo.

“We don’t have another choice,” said Den, frantically swapping his attention between his friends and the view of the battle.

In a green flash Echo’s insect wings appeared. “You’re not leading alone.”

Blueberry examined Echo’s dragonfly-like wings. “Neat spell. Do me!” she said.

“Umm, too little time,” said Echo. “I’ll carry you.”

“Royal Guards, affix lances!” cried Den to the troops behind him.

The Royal Guards shuffled to comply, placing their lances in the loops of their war saddles.

“Flanking speed!” cried Blueberry as she was carried by Echo.

Den took flight. “Follow me!” he shouted as he beat his wings.

Prince Reagle and Zaza observed the battle.

“Prince Reagle, your father will be proud,” said Zaza. “This battle is yours.”

“Zaza, I did not expect so much bloodshed,” said Reagle, his beak lowered. “War is a terrible thing. We should leverage this victory for resource rights to the Crystal Mines. I do not want to push further if it means more of this.”

“We should offer them surrender before the second bombing.”

Their attention was distracted as Royal Guards crashed through their ranks and headed in their direction. Reagle and Zaza’s few bodyguards shot to attention.

Den speared a Griffin with his lance as he dove from the sky. Echo dropped Blueberry into several Zebra warriors, knocking them out. Other Royal Guards charged into the fray, surprising the enemy from behind.

Den faced the enemy Griffin commander.

“Clever tactic, flanking me. So, you are the infamous Shining Armor?” asked Reagle.

“Nope. Dented. Dented Armor!” Den charged at the Griffin.

Before she could help Den, Echo found herself face-to-face with the Zebra Commander.

“Kneel!” shouted Echo as she sent a bolt of magic towards the Zebra.

Zaza deftly sidestepped, avoiding the strike with spiked horseshoes that gave her extra traction. “Your magic won’t save you,” she said confidently. Zaza zig-zagged towards Echo, dodging deadly beams sent from Echo’s horn.

Prince Reagle reared up. He wore metal gauntlets on his claws, which he displayed defiantly.

“I am Reagle, son of Hawkmor. You stand no chance. Surrender!” Reagle got in close and punched Den in response to his attack.

“No way, I was going ask you the same,” said Den.

“Dented Armor, I shall etch ‘Broken’ on your tombstone!” Talons extended from Reagle’s gauntlets. He slashed at Den with startling speed.

Reagle grabbed Den’s lance and snapped it in half. Den jumped back, dropping his war saddle. He managed to kick Reagle’s helmet off, but not before sustaining a deep slash across his flank. Reagle reeled back slightly but managed to return another strike.

“Why are you attacking us?” asked Den.

“I don’t have a choice,” cried Reagle, swiping again.

Den picked up a Zebra spear to block Reagle’s strike. “Everyone has a choice.” He jumped back, narrowly avoiding Reagle’s swipe.

“I must show father that magic is not the way, or worse will come. You wouldn’t understand.”

“What—?” Den began as Reagle slashed at him again. He fell to the ground. His left feet did not listen as he tried in a futile effort to rise.

“I am sorry. It is over for you and your army,” said Reagle, positioning himself over Den to deliver the killing blow.

The battlefield was again shrouded by the shadow of the looming airship. Once more its bomb-bay doors opened.

Echo saw Den fall. “Get out of my way,” she cried to Zaza.

Zaza dodged Echo’s magical blasts. However, Echo managed to telekinetically lift a giant slab of earth from underneath Zaza’s hooves and fling it away along with the Zebra mare.

Echo ran toward her lover. “Den!”

“Echo?” said Den haltingly, in pain.

Echo’s eyes flashed hellish-green as her attention now focused on Reagle. “Stay away from my coltfriend!” Her horn pulsated with magic. The air became choking as the pressure increased, sending the grass swaying in a wave away from her.

Reagle stepped backwards apprehensively as Echo shot a beam towards him.

“Reagle!” Zaza jumped forward, shielding Reagle. The beam soon intensified and seared through her. Zaza jumped at Echo as the beam sliced a chunk of her flank off. Zaza punched Echo in the chin and the beam emanating from Echo’s horn was redirected upwards. Zaza fell swiftly after.

The shaft of light pierced the airship above. Throughout the battlefield, the fighting stopped as ponies, Griffins and zebras stared at the sky with awe. The beam dispersed the clouds and extended into the heavens. Explosions and screeches followed as the airship began to collapse in on itself in mid-air. Pouring from port holes and escape hatches, Griffins took flight.

There was a shower of fire as the airship sunk. As Den watched Echo fall, the battlefield became a blur. The light from her horn flickered, then died.

A tearful voice frantically cried: “Zaza, my love! Retreat! Retreat! The battle is lost!” Reagle flew toward and picked up his fallen lover.

The sounds of clanging weapons faded as the enemy began withdrawing.

Despite his bleeding and numb left side, Den crawled his way to Echo. Dragging himself forward, Den felt like collapsing as his nerves screamed in agony.

Echo’s disguise disappeared in a puff of weak, green fire. Even the brilliance of Echo’s eyes seemed to dim.

Den managed to sit next to Echo, looking down at her in concern. “Echo, how did you—?”

Echo smiled weakly. “I guess I used all my magic. Death comes…”

“Wait, you stupid Changeling! I order you to live!”

“I was afraid to say, but now I know.”

“Shut up!” Den’s tears dripped onto her face.

His tears mixed with Echo’s. “Den, I love you,” Echo said, closing her green eyes.

Den smiled, kissing Echo, as darkness swallowed them both.

Chapter 7 Flight

View Online

Prince Reagle was hauled before his father by two Griffin soldiers. Reagle felt the fuzzy-textured red carpet of the throne room as he was thrown on the floor. A female black-feathered Griffin stood beside the sitting king.

“King Hawkmor, the Prince,” a guard announced, throwing Prince Reagle onto the red-carpeted throne room floor.

King Hawkmor strained himself to lean forward and eyed Reagle sternly. His crown hung loosely on his head and seemed on the verge of slipping.

“Prince Reagle, you disappoint me beyond measure. You launched a premature attack against the Equestrians and you lost a War Wing. Now the enemy knows of our new weapon, which will blunt our assault when we are ready to strike at Equestria-proper. Only your past successes prevent me from banishing you from this court.”

“Father,” said Reagle, “we can defeat the Equestrians without the aid of whatever wicked wizardry this creature has devised!” He pointed a claw at the shadow beside his father.

The black-feathered advisor spoke slyly. “Evidently, your failure has proven this not to be the case. Magic has beaten your technology.”

“Your magic has corrupted father’s sight!”

“Silence!” cried King Hawkmor. “I want peace between you two. We will soon be of one nest. I am to wed Grimfeathers. She is my chosen. When you chose Zaza, the princess of a so recent enemy, I recall respecting your choice.”

“I am sorry, father,” said Reagle. “I know I have been impetuous.”

King Hawkmor slumped in his throne. “My head aches!”

“Father!” cried Reagle.

“My king, I shall tend to that in moment,” said Grimfeathers.

King Hawkmor was helped away to his private chambers by his guards.

Grimfeathers and Reagle remained in the throne room.

“Black-feathered witch, you’re doing this to father,” said Reagle, drawing a simple, hidden dagger from under his wings. He charged at Grimfeathers with the bodkin.

Grimfeathers did not flinch as the dagger neared her throat. She suspended Reagle in a green aura. Nearby, the black-feathered guards hissed at Reagle, drawing their lances and pointing them squarely at him.

Reagle sighed. “Now I know where your true loyalties lie.” He sneered at the shadowy Griffins.

“Foolish bird,” said Grimfeathers, wrenching the dagger from Reagle’s claws. To the guards, she motioned at him nonchalantly. “Kill him.”

They nodded, moving to comply.

“Stand back,” warned Reagle. “Even at this range magic will not avail you! Attack me at your master’s peril!” He held up a claw, revealing a black sphere. In the other claw, with the flick of two flints wrapped around a pair of his talons, he created a few sparks for everyone to see. The grenade had a fuse shorter than an eyelash.

The shadowy Griffin guards backed away slowly.

Grimfeathers chuckled. “Prince Reagle, you are most talented. Why don’t you join me?” She released Reagle from her magical hold. “I have seen you sneak a lusty look.” Grimfeathers turned around and flicked her tail, touching Reagle’s nose.

Reagle’s blood pumped, causing his wings to sprawl outward. Reagle hit his head with the grenade, shaking himself of the vaguest lusty thoughts. “So even your love for my father is a lie?”

“Why is it that you hate me so?” asked Grimfeathers. “I’m taking your people to greatness. My mages will give your father the power to conquer all that he’s ever dreamed.”

“There is no history of magic amongst Griffin-kind. I do not believe that you have rediscovered some secret in that.” Reagle turned to the shadowy Griffins. “Nor do I believe you or those dark-feathered crows are a lost noble line of Griffins.”

“Ha! You are correct. But I will share with you a secret: I am not a Griffin.” Grimfeathers tossed Reagle backwards with her magic. “Do you want to know what I am?” She smiled at Reagle with murderous intent.

“No.”

“No?”

“I will not question your nature,” Reagle said. “if you perform for me a service with your arcane arts. I will tell father nothing. And, I will accept banishment to the White Wastes for my failure.” Reagle teared up.

“What is this you ask of me?”

Reagle bowed. “My wife, Zaza, is upon her deathbed. She soon will be taken to Valhalla. Bring her back to me.”

“That will take great amounts of magic,” said Grimfeathers in feigned disinterest.

“Witch, I know you can,” Reagle pleaded. “Bring her back to me!”

Den awoke. The hospital lights were bright and oppressive. The events of the battle instantly flood his mind: the burning airship, the screams, and then Echo laying beside him. He turned to the left of his bed, where Blueberry was sleeping in a chair.

“Blueberry!”

“Den, you’re alive!”

“Where’s Echo?” Den asked, urgently.

Blueberry frowned.

“The Changeling!” Den shouted. He jumped out his bed, nearly falling from the pain that shot through his body.

“Easy, there,” said Blue, softly and with concern. “I’ll take you to her.”

Blue let Den lean against her as she helped him walk through the hospital.

They arrived at a door with two Royal Guards standing by. The Guards crossed their lances to bar Den’s entry.

“Let me through,” huffed Den.

“No can do, sir,” said one of the guards. “We have orders to keep the Changeling contained.”

“I am a Vice Captain of Celestia’s Royal Guard, and I order you to let me through.”

“This comes from a higher authority,” responded the Guard.

Shining Armor appeared from inside the door and walked up to Den. “Den, we have a lot to talk about.”

“Let me see her first,” growled Den.

“She’s a Changeling. We haven’t been able to locate the real Echo.”

“I know she’s a Changeling! She is Echo!”

Shining Armor blinked. “You knew?”

“Yes, she’s been a Changeling all along. She saved us all during the battle. The shaft of light was hers!” said Den.

Shining Armor lifted a hoof, and, with a muted voice, said: “Be quiet. We’ll speak more of this, but not here.”

Blueberry helped Den take a seat in the empty hospital cafeteria. Shining Armor sat next to them.

“Dented Armor,” Shining Armor addressed formally, “are you aware of Changeling mind control?”

“Yes—the report I wrote for you included a section on it.”

“Then you must know your close contact with it—”

“Echo,” Den corrected.

Shining Armor grudgingly accepted. “Yes, Echo.” He resumed: “Your contact with Echo makes your opinions and thoughts suspect. Anything you say in Echo’s defense will be considered invalid.”

“I collaborate with Den’s testimony,” said Blue, “I mean, ‘corrobolate,’ I think. Er, what I mean is, I saw it—I mean Echo—cast the spell that saved us all. Echo is mah friend too.”

Den nodded at Blue. Blue smiled meekly back.

Shining Armor sighed. “You are Den’s subordinate officer. That also makes your word negligible.”

“What now, then?” said Den. “She’ll die if I don’t see her. If our academy days have any meaning, you’ll let me see her.”

“I knew you would pull that,” said Shining Armor. He relented. “Okay, just give us a short moment. I’ll allow you to see her, but you will be watched.”

Den entered the dark room. Echo was strapped to a hospital bed. A single light hung from the ceiling.

“Den?” Her voice was faint.

Den limped over to her bed. “I’m here.”

“I’m glad. I feel so light-headed.”

“Did they hurt you?” Den inspected her for any marks.

“No, I’m fine. I was more worried about you.”

“Why’d you do that?”

“You mean save your life, and everyone else’s?”

“You’re silly. I mean, why didn’t you cast a shield or something?”

Echo looked at Den thoughtfully then laughed. “That didn’t occur to me. My training is in destruction magic. I could only think of destroying the thing that was about to destroy you.”

“You burned through a lot of energy,” said Den. “Can you sustain yourself for a while? We might be separated for a bit. Please take as much energy as you need from me.”

“No, you need it more. This is enough,” said Echo gesturing with her eyes at Den’s bandaged limbs. “Already I feel stronger in your presence. The rest will take time.”

“I’ll see you freed,” Den asserted.

“Hey, while I’m tied up here, wanna have fun?” Echo smiled playfully.

Den blushed. “We’re being watched.”

When Den left the room he noticed Cadance standing next to Shining Armor.

“Den, please don’t struggle,” said Cadance kindly. She touched her horn against Den’s forehead. Memories flashed before him: meeting Echo upon the windy cliff, their café date, the dream space, and the battle.

“So, is it a spell?” asked Shining Armor.

“His love for the Changeling is genuine,” remarked Cadance. “There are no magically-made memories or signs of an influence spell.”

Den couldn’t helping sighing at the revelation. However, he quickly snapped back to hide it. “I told you. Now can you let her go.”

“We can’t release her without Celestia’s word,” explained Cadance.

“Den, you still have to recover in the hospital,” Shining Armor added. “Promise me you won’t do anything foolish, bro. The guard on... Echo... has been tripled.”

“Doesn’t it count for anything that she saved the lives of a third of the Guard?” Den asked, grumbling.

Cadance put a hoof on Den’s shoulder. “We’ll share our opinion with Celestia. Don’t worry, love shall prevail.”

Several days passed. Den was restless in his hospital bed. His wounds had begun healing with the regular magical treatment. Blue remained at his side, entertaining herself with a crossword-puzzle book—a children’s version, of course. It was amusing for Den to watch her sweat to figure out the words.

“What’s a creature that has three heads? Grows more as you cut them. Starts with h.”

“Hydra,” replied Den.

“H-i-d-r-a,” said Blue, writing it down with her pen gripped in her mouth.

Den rolled his eyeballs. Then he remembered Blue’s testimony. A thought that he wanted to get out into the open lingered on his mind. “Blue, thanks for backing up my story concerning Echo.”

“Story? I right reckon it was da truth,” said Blue, playing with the pen in her mouth.

“No, I meant, you could have lied and had her executed.”

Blueberry gasped. “Seriously, Den, you think I’m that petty?”

“No?” said Den meekly.

Blue frowned. “I saw what happened at the battle. Both of you were unconscious, and I dragged both of your bodies away from the falling wreckage of that airship.”

Den lowered his head. “Blue... I’m sorry for second guessing you.”

“The thought had crossed mah mind of leaving Echo. I’m still crushing on ya hard, but part of loving someone is respecting their choice.” Blue sighed.

“That was mature, thoughtful and nice. Thank you for staying with me.”

“Shucks, you helped me pass those written exams at the academy,” said Blue, scratching her head.

“I’m glad to have you as a friend, Blueberry Frost,” said Den, hugging her.

Blue returned the hug. “You too, Dented Armor.”

A black-feathered male Griffin lead Prince Reagle to the hanger of a War Wing.

Reagle sneered at the Griffin. “So the black feathered witch has taken over my father’s entire Honor Guard.”

“That is none of your concern,” said the shadowy Griffin. “You’re to be banished to the White Wastes.”

“Yes, after I am given my due,” said Reagle, snarling.

Another group of black-feathered Griffins wheeled in a crate.

“As our per our mistress’s agreement…” said the shadowy Griffin, prying open a crate with a spear.

The Zebra mare Zaza stepped out of the crate. They both embraced.

“Zaza!” cried Prince Reagle.

“Prince Reagle!” returned Zaza.

“I thought I had lost you,” said Prince Reagle tearfully. However, as Prince Reagle hugged her, he drew a dagger and pressed it to Zaza’s throat.

“Reagle, what are you doing?! It’s me!” cried Zaza.

Reagle’s eyes watered. “Our honeymoon—we had a fight, what was it about?” asked Reagle angrily, with his dagger shaking in his claws.

The zebra mare laughed eerily. Reagle shoved her aside. Reagle faced the black-feathered Griffins. “Where is she, you demons!? The real Zaza!”

A voice spoke. “I could not resist. How smart of you.”

Reagle turned around again to see Grimfeathers in place of the Zaza-imposter.

“Witch! We had an agreement!” said Reagle.

“Indeed. Her healing has just finished,” said Grimfeathers, snapping her claws.

Another crate was wheeled out. It was opened to reveal a Zebra mare in a cocoon. A black Griffin cut open the cocoon with a lance. The mare spilled out with a gush of green fluid. There was a visible, recently-healed scar upon her flank.

“Prince Reagle?” said the voice faintly.

Reagle picked up Zaza. “Our honeymoon—we had a fight, what was it about?” asked Reagle, looking into her eyes eagerly.

Zaza thought for a moment. “You feather-brain, you were looking at the waitress serving our drinks.”

Reagle laughed. “So says you.” Reagle pressed his beak against her muzzle affectionately. “So says you,” he repeated, crying into her shoulder.

Grimfeathers coughed. “Heartwarming. However, it is time for you to depart.”

The War Wing ship doors opened to the tundra, letting loose a bitter blast of cold air that hit everyone.

Reagle helped Zaza gain her footing. “Come, Zaza, we must go.”

The two walked out into the snow.

Grimfeathers watched the two shapes grow distant, her eyes burning with envy.

“My monarch?” questioned a black Griffin. “Tell us what is on your mind.”

“I felt it: his love for her is strong,” said Grimfeathers with a hint of longing in her voice.

“Shall we pursue?” asked another black Griffin, readying a lance.

“Of course, but wait until they are halfway to the horizon before killing them. They deserve a moment together.”

A Griffin and a Zebra ran alongside one another. The winds of the tundra buffeted them; a storm was rolling in. Reagle kept close to Zaza. If it were not for her black stripes she’d disappear in the wall of white. Their tracks quickly faded behind them.

“So, you accepted banishment for my sake?” questioned Zaza. “I do not think the black-feathered witch intends to let us live.”

“In mere moments she’ll send her agents to dispatch us,” said Reagle, sighing.

Zaza smiled. “You have a plan then?”

Reagle drew a compass. “Hidden to the west is a flotilla of your father’s warships. We must make it there.”

“The Zebra King? My father hates you greatly. How did you talk him into helping you?”

“I appealed to our common ground.”

“What is that?”

Reagle smiled. “Albeit in different ways, we both love you.”

Dark shadows buzzed behind them.

Evening fell. The hospital was dimly lit by low lights. A dozen of the Royal Guards passed a yawn through the ranks. They were snapped from their stupor by a silhouette that loomed over the hospital hallway. His face was hidden by a hat.

“Who goes there?” a Royal Guard called out.

Lights flickered off as the dark figure walked towards the guards.

A dozen guards drew their lances. “Stop where you are!”

The figure stepped forward into the dim light, revealing a grey stallion. “Prepare for a nightmare you can neither define nor defend, for I am Amorpheus!” The stallion took off his fedora. A horn glowed with malign magic.

The hallway disappeared in a black void. The guards screamed as demonic eyes appeared everywhere. The guards stabbed at the walls to no avail. They turned their attention to the gray stallion. A hooded figure with a scythe was now advancing upon them. The rest of the guards screamed in utter panic.

The gray stallion secured his fedora and walked through the corridor, leaving behind him a trail of unconscious Royal Guards. A squad of dark armored Changeling soldiers followed behind him, spearing the Guards.

“Quickly now, before they gather their courage!” Amorpheus commanded of them. “We have a princess to save!”

Amorpheus continued down the corridor, his eyes fixed forward. Behind him, the Changelings dispatched the last of the guards.

Den was awoken by several screams. He found Blueberry sleeping in a chair beside his bed. Den prodded Blue with his hooves.

“Blueberry, wake up,” said Den urgently, his voice hushed.

“But mommy, I want waffles,” murmured Blue drearily. More screams caused her to jump up. “What’s going on?”

Two Changelings rammed at a metallic door with their shoulders. Their impacts had little affect as a protective ward dissipated the energy in waves.

The gray stallion sighed, tipping his fedora back. With the green fire of his magic, he burned through the door’s hinges, causing the door to fall inward.

Echo gasped as the gray stallion entered. “Master Amorpheus?”

“Larvi,” said Amorpheus, the corners of his mouth curling up slightly. “It has been too long.”

Changelings entered the room and began cutting through Echo’s restraints.

Echo turned her head toward the squad of Changelings. “Thorax? Coxa? Husk? My old unit... I thought you were lost in Canterlot.”

A Changeling nodded gleefully. “Yes, it is us, Commander Larvi,” said Thorax, busily snapping the buckles that held her. “I mean, Princess Larvi.”

Echo shot him a sidelong glance. “Princess?”

Amorpheus smiled. “It is time the truth be revealed to you. You are not simply a daughter of her highness, but the daughter. Now that our Queen’s plan is coming ahead, she wishes you to join her. During the battle of Manehatten, your demonstration of power did not go unnoticed. It is time that it is applied properly.”

“You all came... to rescue me,” said Echo.

“Aye, who knew that for all those years, Commander, you were our Princess!” said Thorax chirpily.

“You risk much coming here,” Echo warned.

“This operation is risky, yes, but it is riskier still to do nothing,” said Coxa.

Amorpheus stomped his hoof. “What is with the delay?”

Coxa was still cutting through the restraints. “Forgive me, Master Amorpheus, these last bindings are difficult. It will take a little longer.”

“Stay here,” said Amorpheus, his ears perked. “I sense something approaching.”

Den and Blue came upon a grisly sight. A dozen or so Royal Guards lay dead in the hallway. The guards were curled up in fear. The tile floor was awash with red blood and yellow urine.

Blue backed up against Den in surprise. “What did this?” She lowered her head to inspect the bodies.

Den looked at the precise nature of the wounds: deep gashes to the throat and chest. “They were executed.”

“Whoever did this—they’ll pay!” Blue bit angrily.

Den and Blue gathered the lances and war saddles from the fallen guards.

An ominous voice greeted them. In the shadows stood the silhouette of a stallion in a hat. His green eyes glowed. “You best flee. Unless you wish to share their fate.”

Blue charged at him. “Royal Guards never turn tail!”

Amorpheus grinned, throwing the fedora on the ground beside him. “Prepare for fear.”

Den saw Blue crumple over, her charge skidding to a halt. Blue was curled up in a fetal position reminiscent of a foal. Blue shook, holding herself, nearly immobilized.

“What did you do to her!?” Den steadied his lance. He noticed the broken door behind Amorpheus. “You’re after Echo, aren’t you?”

Amorpheus’s eyes lit up. He cackled, revealing his fangs. “You’re Larvi’s lover?” Amorpheus flashed to his true and intimidating Changeling stature.

“Echo told me you were all gone. She said there was no more Changeling threat.”

“Oh, you seem to be mistaken. Let me dispel that before I destroy you. Such despair you’ll feel, knowing all your memories are a lie.”

A flash hit Den harmlessly. “Is that all you’ve got? You’re not going to get to Echo.”

“You defend her of your own accord? What is this?” Amorpheus recoiled, then recovered. “Very interesting. Such an opponent warrants an introduction.” He bowed. “I am Amorpheus, master of shapeless nightmares.”

“I... am Dented Armor.”

“Armor is of no defense! Now, face my unstoppable offense!” Amorpheus’s horn sparked.

Den watched as the room disappeared into a dark void. Visions of bones, rotting flesh and death flashed before his eyes. The corpses of the dead Royal Guards stood up. The ghouls had sunken eyes, and their flesh had the white, ghostly pallor of death. In front of him was a hooded figure carrying a scythe and gesturing towards him. All instincts commanded Den to run. Nothing earthly could defeat such foes. The pressure on his mind was immense. Fear, both natural and unnatural, swept over him. Then he remembered his experience with Echo. The sensation was familiar: he was in dream space.

“Reaper! I do not fear death!” Den stepped forward, head held high.

The ghastly visions stepped backwards. Den began sprinting towards his foes. He ran through the apparitions with his lance only to hit something solid.

The cloud curtain of the night unfurled and the moon’s grace shone through the hospital windows, sending the shadows scurrying to their corners. The illusion ended. Amorpheus had picked up a lance from a fallen Royal Guard. Den locked weapons with the greater Changeling.

“You saw through it?” Amorpheus snarled, and pushed him back. “You grow more interesting still.”

“Echo!” cried Den.

Echo stood next to Amorpheus, but her face was frozen and expressionless.

The Changeling Thorax stepped forward. “He offends you? Princess, I shall slay the pitiful pony!”

Thorax readied his spear and, with the squad of lesser Changelings, rushed past Amorpheus toward Den.

“Wait,” cried Amorpheus, “this is not an opponent you can—”

Den readied himself for the onslaught.

“Stop!” Echo’s voice resonated through their minds, exerting stronger influence than Amorpheus had projected.

The squad of Changelings instantly ceased movement at the order. Thorax, the lead Changeling, stopped mid-charge. He was skewered by Den’s lance.

Thorax looked upon the weapon that had impaled him. The Changeling returned a look of confusion toward Echo. “My Princess? My Commander? Larvi?” The Changeling slid to the ground.

As the blue glow from Thorax’s eyes faded, Echo winced with pain that was both psychic and physical. “No,” she stuttered.

“Larvi, what have you done?” questioned Amorpheus.

Echo’s eyes watered, but she stamped her hoof, striking the ground, cracking the floor tiles beneath her. “We leave now!” announced Echo, her voice ringing in both Den’s ears and mind.

“Vengeance must be had,” cried the Changeling Husk. “This pony has slain one of our own. Blood for blood!”

“It saved my life once, and I shall spare its life now,” said Echo.

“Echo!” Den called out.

Den was slammed against a wall by a sheath of green magic.

Larvi’s eyes glowed intensely. “The name is Larvi. You would do well to remember that, my little pony.” She turned her attention back to the Changeling squad. “We withdraw!” She turned her back on Den.

The other Changelings looked questioningly at each other.

“That was not a request,” chided Amorpheus. “It was a command from your Princess!”

The rest of the Changelings bowed lightly.

Den could only watch as Echo-Larvi led the rest of the Changelings away. He lost consciousness soon after, as the pain of his injuries caught up with him.

Chapter 8 Despair

View Online

A steam ship cruised through the sea waves. The paddle-wheel of the vessel rotated as it pushed the ocean. Its captain stared blankly, his hooves holding to the steering column. In his eyes lay the green signature of magical mind control.

Echo stood on the bowsprit of the wooden ship.

Amorpheus approached Echo. “Soon we will be in Griffin-controlled skies. Your mother, your Queen, will then greet you as her daughter. We must speak of what happened before.”

“I do not know what there is say,” said Echo.

“You killed Thorax, one of our own,” explained Amorpheus bluntly.

“No, I… Thorax …” said Echo weakly.

“To command is to kill. Your decision or indecision stopped Thorax from doing his duty. You killed Thorax, the same Thorax that was among your first guards.”

Echo’s face contorted, but she held firm, biting back the tears. Echo turned her face toward the sea to hide the turmoil written across her facial features.

Amorpheus looked at her with concern. “I fear that in sheltering you from the worst rigors of our monarch’s training, I have done a great harm. This is my weakness as well as yours. I have spoiled you.”

“Master Amorpheus, the pony saved my life once. My honor demanded repayment, and nothing more.”

“Larvi, the affection that pony had for you was real. I tested him in combat. He loved not your mask, but you. I have never seen the like. Do you reciprocate such feelings?”

Echo turned backwards. “Are you questioning my loyalty?”

“Yes,” said Amorpheus, looking down at Echo, forcing her to stare into his eyes. “Swear to me now that you will never lead me to think so again!”

“I swear it by the monarchs of old, dead and cold."

Den awoke in his hospital bed again. He groaned at the now very familiar ceiling of that hospital room. Blue was with him.

“Den, I’m sorry. I just froze up,” said Blue.

“Blue, it’s alright,” said Den. “It was illusion magic of the highest degree.”

“You overcame it,” said Blue, staring down at her hooves helplessly.

“I’m not sure how,” said Den.

Shining Armor entered their hospital room. “Here, read this,” he said, shoving Den a sealed letter.

Blue opened the letter for Den and placed it on his blanket for him to read.

Dear Dented Armor,

A panel has reviewed the circumstances regarding the Changeling known as Echo. At the insistence of Captain Shining Armor and Princess Cadance, we have decided at this time there is no sanction against Changelings in the Royal Guard. We have no right to prejudge a being who wishes to join so long as its intentions are sincere. We shall permit it then that the Changeling known as Echo, for her service in the battle of Manehatten, may continue serving under supervision. Dented Armor, her superior officer, will regularly report her progress.

Princess Celestia of Equestria

“A dozen more letters will have to be written for families of the Royal Guards that died because of that Changeling,” Shining Armor said with scorn.

“Echo wasn’t responsible,” said Den. “Other Changelings—”

“Don’t defend that creature,” said Shining Armor. “She’s corrupted you.”

“But, Den was tested for mind magic and passed,” offered Blue.

“I love Echo,” said Den.

Shining Armor placed a hoof on Den’s shoulder and, with a severe expression on his face, said: “Den, what I’m going to say, you mustn’t repeat to anyone.”

Den and Blue both nodded.

“When I was under the control of Queen Chrysalis, it wasn’t entirely mind control. If it had been just that, I would have noticed immediately when my love, Cadance, was replaced. Mind manipulation isn’t just about magic. Spies without mind magic are still just as dangerous. The deadliest poisons taste… sweet. I love my Cadance with all my heart. I still feel guilty."

“You couldn’t have known,” said Blue.

Den looked vacantly at the wall as the words sunk in: Echo could have played him for a fool even without magic.

“We don’t expect a follow-up attack soon, especially after hitting the Griffins as hard as we did,” continued Shining Armor. “This is the first time in one thousand years that Equestria faces the prospect of full-on war.” His face was racked with worry. “There will be a lot of discussion between the higher-ups. I need a Vice Captain with a clear head. Den, I want you to write those letters for the families of the fallen guards.” He placed a hoof on Den’s shoulders. “Aside from that, you have the next week off.”

The yellow glow of the sun was fading behind the blinders of the office windows. Den sat behind his desk and looked at the dossiers of the fallen guards contained in a folder. “Lance Corporal Cobalt Blaze” was the name of a particular dossier that caught his attention.

“Nearest kin: wife, Cherry Blossom; children, two…” Den grew teary-eyed as he read the piece of parchment to himself.

Blueberry stood by Den’s doorway. “You need help?” she asked tenderly.

Den wiped the tears from his eyes. “Blue, you can’t write.”

“I can fold the envelopes,” said Blue. “I can stay by you.”

Den smiled wearily. “Sure,” he said.

Den and Blue sat in the office together for some time. Den wrote each letter carefully. Sometimes, his tears stained the letters. Blue sat silently and patiently waiting with an envelope ready as he finished each one. The ritual continued late into the evening until they had made a neat stack of a dozen letters sealed with hot wax.

“At least you don’t have to deliver them,” said Blue, sighing.

“I want to visit at least one: Cobalt Blaze. His address is here, in Canterlot.”

The snow was like a thick wall; the White Wastes lived up to their name. The blinding blizzard blasted two figures as they ran from the pursuit of dark, flying shadows.

The enemy used telekinesis to launch spears at them.

The wind worsened.

“In this blizzard, we either lose our pursuers, or we lose our lives!” Zaza shouted over the howling of the winds.

The lead shadow caught up with Reagle and Zaza, but noticed too late it was too far from its kin.

Reagle turned and grabbed a spear in mid-air. “We stand and fight.” He flung the spear striking down the lead shadow.

The black Griffin fell near their feet. In green fire, it reverted to its true self.

Zaza examined the insect-like creature. “Cursed creatures. They are not Griffins; nor are they Zebra. They are the enemy of truth.” Zaza pounced and smashed one of the shadows to the ground.

“Zaza, you know of these creatures?” asked Reagle, fighting off one of the shadows.

“Yes, the cause of your father’s illness is now apparent. They are called harpies in lore. I believe the Equestrians know them by a different name.”

A ship docked at a pier on the waterfront of a great coastal city under Griffin occupation while airships hovered overhead. Pony sailors disembarked timidly under the shade of the mighty airships. A procession of Griffin guards greeted them, lining the pier. Disguised, Echo and Amorpheus walked amongst their ranks. Echo recognized the green gleam in some of the Griffin soldier’s eyes. Amorpheus followed after Echo.

“So mother is behind the Griffins,” said Echo.

“Listen, for our Queen shall test you again,” said Amorpheus. “You must look into her eyes as you did for your first test.”

Echo nodded. “I know what will be asked of me. It is customary.”

“No. This is different.”

Reagle and Zaza stood amongst a dozen dead Changelings. The blizzard intensified.

“We must find shelter!” shouted Reagle.

“Prince Reagle, look!” Zaza gestured at a cave entrance below an outcropping in the distance.

Reagle and Zaza stepped into the dry, cold cave. The Zebra mare and the Griffin hugged each other closely for warmth.

“I have abandoned my father to the black-feathered witch,” said Reagle despondently.

“We can return,” said Zaza. “I shall marshal my Zebra Zerkers. We’ll show your father the truth when we kill the witch.”

“That would end the pact between our two nations. War would follow. The Equestrians would then destroy our divided peoples.”

Zaza huffed in frustration. “This war is a contrivance! Shortly ago there was no talk of war. This Celestia is not a monster. Neither are those she commands. My exiled sister has studied amongst the ponyfolk. Her letters tell only of compassion and kindness in their company. Why don’t we speak to them?”

Reagle rubbed his forearms together nervously. “Is peace possible? They will remember Manehatten.”

“War is worse. We have met the Equestrians in combat. It will not be the easy victory we imagined.”

The morning sun was bright and welcoming, and the Canterlot streets were bustling with workers. Den and Blue arrived at their destination, a small house nestled in an alleyway. Den tapped his hoof against the plain, unpainted wooden door.

“Coby, you’re home!” a pink mare greeted them. “Oh.” Her smile evaporated as she saw Den and Blue in their Royal Guard Armor.

Den sputtered out his words. “You must be Cherry Blossom. C-could we come in?”

“Sure,” said Cherry.

Two fillies, one pink and the other teal, tugged on their mother’s apron. “Mommy, is daddy home?” they both chimed.

“No. It’s time for you two to go to school,” said Cherry kindly. “You’re going to be late. Run along now.”

“Yes, mother,” said the two fillies, filing past Den and Blue.

“Come in,” said Cherry cheerily asked.

Den and Blue seated themselves in the living room which adjoined the kitchen. Cherry sat opposite Den and Blue. She smiled at them pleasantly. Den noticed Cobalt’s sword hanging above the fireplace mantle. Pictures of the teal stallion, pink mare, and their two fillies adorned the wall around the sword. A subdued mood permeated the room, due in part to the day curtains filtering out the sunlight.

“Can I get you two anything?” asked Cherry, gesturing to a tea kettle on the kitchen stove.

“No, we…” Blue looked at the carpet, unable to say more.

“No, thank you,” said Den nervously. He spoke softly:“Your husband—he’s Cobalt Blaze?”

Cherry remained calm. “You two don’t need to say anymore. I can read what you’re going to say from you faces. He’s fallen, hasn’t he?”

“Yes,” said Blue, gritting her teeth.

Den placed a letter on the table. “You and your children will be taken care of. The Royal Guard will pay compensation.”

“I heard the Royal Guards liberated Manehatten. I’m glad Coby could have helped in a noble cause. The fool—I loved him so. He’d always spout about fighting for Equestria and the future of our children.” Cherry’s disposition was collected. Cherry looked to Blue. “Tell me how he died. Was it like the poems?”

Blue cobbled together her words. “Why, yes, I reckon Coby defeated a dozen of dem buzzards.”

Cherry then leaned toward Den with bated breath. “Tell me my Coby was glorious. Tell me he died defending the Equestria he loved.” Cherry’s eyes were wide and expecting.

Den choked on his words. “No, he died defending a Changeling. It was my fault. I’m sorry.”

“Den.” Blue looked at Den, her mouth agape.

Cherry fell back onto the couch with a despondent, blank expression. “Thank you for telling me the truth.” Cherry said softly.

They sat silently for a moment.

The tea kettle whistled threateningly.

Cherry’s face exploded with anger. “Now, get out!” Cherry jumped from the couch. She grabbed an ornamental sword on the mantle with her mouth and swatted at Den and Blue.

They ran from the crazed mare.

Cherry spat out the sword as Den and Blue were driven out of the home. “Never come here again!” Cherry screamed.

As the door slammed shut behind them, Den and Blue could hear heavy sobbing.

The two returned to the main streets. Blue punched Den in the stomach with her forelegs. “You dumb dolt! You wanna tell her that her husband pissed himself before they slit his throat too?”

Den reeled back. “I couldn’t lie to her.”

“You idiot,” said Blue with tears in her eyes.

Both Den and Blue hugged each other as they wept.

In the throne room, Queen Chrysalis sat apathetically atop her gilded throne. Undisguised Changelings flanked the carpeted aisle. Each of the Changelings wore sleek, dark armor and could be counted as a commander of more. Echo and Amorpheus walked towards the throne in between the columns of Changeling officers.

“My Queen, I bring you a Princess worthy of the colony,” said Amorpheus. He stepped back and bowed.

Queen Chrysalis rose from her chair. “I shall judge that,” she said, circling Echo and pacing about.

Echo stood motionless, looking ahead solemnly and allowing the Queen to inspect her.

Queen Chrysalis scoffed. “You call this pitiful nymph a Princess? Master Amorpheus, have you gone blind? I do not believe she took out a War Wing.”

Amorpheus spoke quickly. “Larvi has completed her training. She is—”

Queen Chrysalis raised a hoof, calling for silence. “If she is to be my daughter then she can speak for herself.” Chrysalis turned to Echo. “Answer me, the S’s in infiltration, what are the three?”

“Seduce, supplant, subvert,” responded Echo determinately.

“Be not proud; that was simple. It is greater than stars above and the strongest love. The highest noble wants for it. The lowest peasant has it. Yet it does not sustain or support.”

Echo thought for a moment. “Nothing comes to mind.”

Chrysalis mused. “You have no answer, child?”

“The answer is ‘nothing,’ ” said Echo.

“Clever," said Chrysalis with a smirk. Her tone became severe. “Now comes your real test. Do not succumb or it will destroy you. Do not look away or I will destroy you.”

Chrysalis stared into Echo’s eyes. Echo matched her gaze. Chrysalis’s pupils became emerald embers that burned away consciousness. The bleakest-black of voids surrounded Echo. Visions of starving colts, a battlefield laden with corpses, and towns stricken with plague flashed through Echo’s mind. Lifetimes of such visions coursed through her mind’s lens. The weight of the world threatened to crush her soul.

Echo tried to fight back with her own memories. The happiest shards were swiftly swallowed by the visions. The sweet nectar of Ambrosia wine was a blink. Master Amorpheus giving her a plush pony doll, several seconds. Even her first love, the lancer Constance, was devoured by the all consuming emptiness. Echo shook violently, hugging herself. She was at the Canterlot cliffs again. The wind was beckoning her to step forward. From behind, a voice called out to her.

“Echo!”

It was Den.

Echo blinked, blinded by her tears, and shuddered from a cold that touched her from within. She wiped her eyes and the room returned to focus.

Queen Chrysalis stepped back from Echo. Her expression gave no hint of approval or disdain.

“My Queen, Larvi can still be off some use!” pleaded Amorpheus. “Soldier caste, or even… banishment.”

“Silence, Amorpheus! My daughter has passed her test.” Chrysalis smiled proudly.

“What?” Amorpheus stammered.

Chrysalis’s voice boomed throughout the chamber. “That was not feeble fear. She survived pure despair! I hereby acknowledge her as my heir. There is none more worthy. Anyone to challenge this claim challenges me.”

Amorpheus bowed. All at once, the other Changeling commanders followed his lead.

Chrysalis hugged Echo from behind, turning her towards the rows of Changeling soldiers. “My daughter, kings will kill for you; the foundations of nations crumble before your feet; and even the living goddesses will cry as they die!”

Echo fought the tears as she shivered uncontrollably. Before she was able to process everything that was happening, the Changelings looked up at her and lifted their lances, crying out: “All Hail Princess Larvi! All Hail Princess Larvi!”

The coronation ceremony had begun.

Chapter 9 Shadow Valley

View Online

Four Griffin War Wings pursued three smaller, striped airships, firing on them with bow-mounted cannons. Cannonballs shrieked through the sky as the larger ships gained on the smaller.

Aboard the leading Zebra ship, an engineer peered through a mounted spy glass at the vessel trailing to their left, interpreting the flashes of a coded message.

“Commander Zaza,” he said, “Captain Nokimbe signals that their ballast tanks have been punctured and… good fortune.”

For a moment, Zaza looked at him quizzically, then turned to look out the port-side window.

A striped airship bleeding smoke veered violently and crashed into the lead Griffin War Wing. The two ships exploded. Shards of fire and metal fell into the sea below.

“Nokimbe, you idiot. Now you choose to be brave?” Zaza struck the floor with her hooves with such strength that they bent the metal beneath them. She pulled the Zebra engineer toward her. He quivered at her rage. “Why?” she continued. “We started with four ships. Now, two. Are not the specifications of ship engines the same? Why do they gain?”

Reagle gripped his forehead in shame. “When, the Griffin Kingdom gifted airship technology to the Zebra Tribal Confederation, they left a few holes in the schematics. It was a security measure. The Griffin nobles still desired ownership of the skies.”

“You knew of this?” asked Zaza.

“I am sorry, Zaza,” said Reagle. “I spoke out against it but at that time mistrust was still rampant."

Zaza stomped her hooves angrily. “Argh. It matters not our engineers figured most of the flaws,” she said. “Our gifts were also offered as but token gestures. The Our healing poultices are only effective if they are made with herbs grown in Zebra lands. I am ashamed of my people too.”

“I did not expect our union to resolve the differences between our people,” sighed Reagle.

Zaza smiled. “You took the first step.”

“We took,” Reagle corrected with a smile.

A cannon ball ricocheted across their ship.

A Zebra engineer ran into the bridge. “Commander Zaza, enemy fliers!”

Black griffins poured from the War Wings.

“Fire the flak cannons!” cried Zaza.

“Flak?” asked Reagle.

In the throne room, Den and Blue bowed before Celestia and Luna.

“Dented Armor, for your service in the battle of Manehatten, it is my pleasure to promote you to a full Captain of the Royal Guard. Arise,” said Celestia.

“I am honored,” Den responded.

“Blueberry Frost,” said Luna. “It is my pleasure to promote you to Vice Captain. Arise.”

Celestia nodded to both of them. “May your allegiance be firm evermore.”

“Omigosh, omigosh, omigosh!” said Blue, hopping slightly.

”We are sorry that we must cut the festivities short,” said Luna, “As there is a war which requires our full attention.”

Den saluted. “Of course, your majesties.”

All four of the princesses assembled in the council room. The military leaders of the nation were also present.

A small, pony-high purple dragon interrupted the proceedings. “Everypony: another Griffin invasion force! Five ships total.”

“Spike, which Guard Tower?” asked Twilight.

“Twenty,” Spike responded.

“That’s not far from Canterlot. Scramble all Pegasus forces!” commanded Twilight, turning to the central table, which was covered with maps.

“Five ships is impressive,” said Celestia thoughtfully. “However, I expected there to be more in a full attack.”

“Is the Cloudsdale Project complete yet?” asked Luna. “If not, we are not sure how spears would fare against their warships of metal.”

“In the battle of Manehatten, wasn’t it proven a concentrated magical beam could penetrate the hull of those warships?” Shining Armor asked Den.

“Yes,” said Den.

“How much magical energy?” asked Twilight.

“Too much. It’d kill the user,” Den explained.

The purple dragon raised a claw. “What about the Elements of Harmony, Twilight?”

Twilight shook her head. “Applejack is visting a sick relative in Appleloosa. Captain Rainbow is running a sortie to Manehatten. We won’t be able to recall any of them in time."

“Then we’ve got no choice,” said Shining Armor as he stood up. “I’ll volunteer to cast the beam. I swore an oath to protect Equestria with my life."

“We can split the burden, my love," said Cadance, leaning warmly against Shining Armor.

Shining Armor blushed. “You’re right, we can concentrate the beams together.”

“Between the three of us,” added Twilight.

“Thou art mad,” said Luna. “We shall join, and the fun shall be quadrupled!”

“Dearest Luna, I will join too,” said Celestia. “The enemy has five airships."

Luna smiled at her elder sister.

“If we’re lucky, we can get more than one ship in a single shot,” said Shining Armor.

Twilight pointed her hoof at a mountain range on the map. “From guard tower number twenty, the straightest path to Canterlot is through the Foal Mountains. We can set our defenses in Foal’s Valley. That’ll force the enemy into single file for a beam,"

“Twily, that’s brilliant,” said Shining Armor. “We’ll skewer them like a kebab!”

Cadance jumped up. “Yes! The Pegasus weather patrol can generate thunderstorms and force them into the valley.”

Luna trotted agreeably. “Clover the Clever could not have devised a better plan. Huzzah, victory is within our hooves!”

“After the first shot they’ll focus their firepower on us. We’ll need a diversion,” said Celestia.

A yellow Pegasus with a fiery mane and an academy officer’s uniform stepped forward. “I believe my Wonderbolts can run distraction.”

Den and Blue made for the exit. On their way out, two Pegasi—a fiery-colored mare and a blue stallion—blocked the doorway.

“So you’re that little pony that saved Shining’s flank during Manehatten, huh?” said Spitfire.

“Yeah, nice to see you too,” said Den ambivalently, “Spitfire and Soarin,"

Soarin smirked. “How’s our favorite Wonderbolt dropout?”

“You still throw up after a couple of laps?” asked Spitfire.

“Hey, Den’s a Captain too! You can’t talk to him like that!” said Blueberry defensively.

“Of the Royal Guards. He could have been a Wonderbolt,” said Spitfire.

Den grimaced. Spitfire simply laughed.

Blueberry eyed Spitfire angrily.

“Don’t get your blood up,” said Spitfire. “I’m just bustin’ your chops. It’s the drill instructor speaking,"

“So can you really run distraction against five airships?” asked Den.

“Yeah, me an’ Soarin got this covered.” Spitfire gestured a wing at her partner. “This operation will be a cooperative effort between the Royal Guard and the Wonderbolts. But we’ll be doing the heavy lifting here.” Spitfire looked at Den and Blue smugly as she put on a pair of aviator glasses and left.

“Prepare to eat humble pie,” said Soarin, following after Spitfire.

Blue spoke up. “Wonderbolt dropout, huh?”

“Yeah, add it to my long list of failures,” chuckled Den.

The aft cannons of the Zebra airships fired cannonballs at the mass of dark Griffins encroaching on their ship. The cannonballs exploded, spraying pellets in all directions. The enemy soldiers dropped from the sky like flies.

“Your people developed anti-Griffin weapons?” questioned Reagle.

“Yes. It’ll keep them from sending out boarding parties,” said Zaza.

“Commander Zaza, Equestria is in sight,” shouted a Zebra Engineer.

“Flanking speed! We must make it!” cried Zaza.

“Let’s hope that the Equestrian Air Forces are competent,” said Reagle.

Den flew over the fortified mountain pass, observing the preparations. He noticed as the ballistae were wheeled into position that the tips of the war machines’ bolts were colorfully-painted; they had a new trick up their sleeves.

Den landed next to Blueberry. She was directing a group of Royal Guard Earth Ponies.

“Argghh! The angle is wrong,” she said. “We need those to fire into the sky."

“Hey Blue, what do you have there?” said Den, looking at the strange bolts being loaded into the ballistae.

“Weaponized fireworks,” Blue announced proudly. “I stole dem big ones they use in the Grand Galloping Gala. Should be able to do some damage.”

“I’m glad you figured it out. I have to get into position."

“Hey Den, be careful up there,” Blue shouted up to Den.

“I will. You too!”

Den flew further through the pass. He looked at the cliff where the Princesses and Shining Armor were positioning to fire. Den then flew to where the Royal Guard Pegasus divisions were arrayed in the sky. The blue-uniformed Wonderbolts formed the tip of the formation. Pegasus units were moving clouds to cover their position in the sky. Den flew beside Spitfire and Soarin as they hovered, looking over the cloud cloak.

“So, are the Royal Guards ready? The traps are set?” asked Spitfire.

“Everything is in place,” said Den.

Dark dots in the sky approached quickly. Explosions were heard by all.

“What’s going on? The battle hasn’t commenced yet!” shouted Spitfire.

“Something is up,” said Soarin, slapping on his goggles.

Den squinted to see two striped ships ahead of the three Griffin War Wings. One of the striped ships was glinting a signal.

Den recognized a pattern in the shines. “It’s horse code,” he said. “A request for help."

“What?!” exclaimed Soarin, mouth agape.

“We have to change the plan,” said Den.

“We can’t,” said Spitfire. “It could be a trick. If we fail, Canterlot is defenseless!”

“They’re flying into a trap."

Spitfire looked down at her hooves.

Den appeared shocked. “We’re just going to kill them all?” Den grabbed a shiny shield from a Royal Guard Pegasus flier. He began flashing a reply to the signal.

“Stop that crazy Pegasus!” shouted Spitfire, motioning toward several Wonderbolts, who tackled Den and held him in the air. “You just revealed our location, idiot,” Spitfire spat.

“We can’t just murder them,” said Den.

“You’re not authorized to make that decision!” cried Spitfire.

“We don’t have time to fly to the Princesses and back,” said Soarin.

As he was hauled off, Den looked back, crying: “Don’t attack the Zebra ships!”

Aboard the lead Zebra airship, Reagle and Zaza were stared anxiously at the view of the horizon through the glass windows. Reagle looked through a spyglass and held another with his claws for Zaza to use.

Zaza saw a flashing pattern in a cloud formation. “That’s it,” she said. “We have confirmation. Signal back. Pull into that mountain pass."

“We can’t maneuver in there,” said Reagle reservedly.

Another cannonball from the pursuing War Wing racked the Zebra ship, sending vibrations throughout the entire hull.

“We can’t turn around, so forward is our only option,” said Zaza.

“If the Equestrians are planning something then it would be there,” said Reagle. “I would do the same. We’re flying into a trap."

“Reagle, we have to show them they can trust us,” said Zaza. “Signal the second ship,” she ordered of an engineer. “We’re filing into the valley pass!”

Shining Armor and the Princesses waited on a cliff that had a clear line of sight from one end of the valley to the next.

“Wait until all their ships are in,” said Shining Armor. “Then we begin the spell.”

The first two airships entered the valley. Their shadows seemed to project onto the grass; however, below them, Royal Guard Unicorns diligently projected an illusionary curtain of greenery. The hum of the airship engines frightened the Royal Guards.

Blueberry ran through the lines, and whispered in a hushed tone at several nervous ballista operators. “Hooves off triggers. Come what may, we don’t fire until all dem eggs are in the basket!”

“Yes ma’am,” said the operators, stepping off the triggers of the wooden war machines.

Blue turned to a group of sweating Unicorns. “Keep up that magical cloak.”

The Three Griffin War Wing airships followed the Zebra ships, firing their cannons. Forced into single file, the large War Wings barely slid through the most narrow parts of the pass.

“Maybe Dent was right,” said Soarin, observing the War Wings’ continual assault of the Zebra ships.

“Argh. Send a flyer to the beam team!” said Spitfire. “Tell them not to fire on the striped ships."

“It’s too late now.”

“Send the messenger anyway!”

Den was tied up and ushered into a small crevice of the valley. The Wonderbolts departed, leaving a single Pegasus Royal Guard to watch over him..

“You’ve got to let me go,” said Den.

“No, sir,” said the Pegasus guard.

“Then, I’m sorry about this.” Den curled up his entire body like a spring and jumped up. His impact smashed the Guard’s head against the rocky wall, knocking the guard unconscious. Den took the guard’s lance and cut through the ropes holding him captive.

“Fire!” cried Shining Armor, his voice magnified by the valley’s cone shape. He and the Princesses cast the spell.

“Now!” shouted Blueberry.

The front of the pass was blocked by an avalanche caused by Royal Guard Unicorns.

The Royal Guards revealed themselves. Ballistae fired upwards at the airships’ bellies. Minor beam teams of Unicorns concentrated their magic in focused blasts. Meanwhile, engineers lit firework-fuses. The bolts were fired and midair were propelled further by explosive force.

The Zebra ships shook as fireworks and heavy magic exploded against their hulls.

“The Equestrians are attacking us!” shouted Reagle. “Damn, they’re actually getting through the armor. I’d rather die fighting.”

Zaza placed a hoof on Reagle’s claws. “Wait! We can’t strike back, otherwise we’d just be proving to them we’re hostile. Give them a moment more. This could be a test."

The Zebra ships passed by the barrage without retaliation. However, the War Wings behind them opened their bomb bays.

Den finished freeing himself. After surveying his surroundings, he saw that the ground barrage had begun. With a powerful thrust of his wings, he took to the air.

Spitfire, Soarin, and the Pegasi divisions circled above the center of the battlefield.

“Open your smokescreen packets!” cried Spitfire.

Pegasi wearing saddle-bags dove towards the airships.

Den zoomed past the lines of the Royal Guards. Smoke now shrouded the battlefield. Explosions flashed through the smoke behind him where the War Wings had begun to bomb.

”Den?” Blueberry saw him fly by. “Pull back the forward positions!” she shouted as the War Wings dropped their payloads.

The lead striped airship spewed smoke from the Pegasi’s barrage. Alarms sounded throughout the ship. Zebra engineers panicked and ran about.

Reagle grabbed Zaza’s face with his claws. “Zaza, I’m going to kick Odin’s feathery ass if he doesn’t let a Zebra into Griffin Valhalla," said With tears in his eyes, he kissed the striped mare.

“You better not flirt with the Valkyries,” Zaza chuckled.

“Never. You’ll be there to stop me.”

Zaza smiled. “Oh, Reagle.”

The two lovers embraced as their airship shook.

The Wonderbolts and Royal Guards nearly covered the Airships in smoke. From the cliff, the beam team readied itself. An arcane circle had been drawn on the ground, complete with a five point star that touched the edges.

“Argh!” exclaimed Twilight in frustration.

“What is it, Twily?” asked Shining Armor.

“I remembered from my readings on Advanced Magic that the Unicorn who focuses the magic in this array feels the most drain. A three-pony magical array can put the caster in a permanent coma. With five of us channeling one, we have no idea what will happen."

“The smokescreen is nearly up,” said Luna, stepping to the front. “We have one shot! Make ready!”

Celestia pushed Luna aside. “I shall be the conduit for your magical energies. It is the biggest burden, and I am the strongest."

Luna’s voice reverted to her gentler tone. “No, dearest sister.”

“No, Luna, I must do this,” said Celestia determinately.

“But sister,” Luna exclaimed, “we’ve just re-connected!”

Celestia stomped her hooves onto the ground, causing fissures of energy to form all around them. “This isn’t a Republic! I give the orders!” She assumed a central position in the magical array.

“Princess, you can’t do this!” Twilight exclaimed.

Celestia closed her eyes and said calmly: “The fact you still acknowledge me as your superior means I must. Twilight Sparkle, there is a lesson here for you. A ruler is as much subject to their people as they are beholden to their ruler. It is my responsibility.”

They were interrupted when a Pegasus crashed onto the ground in front of them. “You mustn’t shoot down the Zebra ships!” cried Den.

Two squads of Wonderbolts began flying in a cyclone. Griffins protected the open bomb bay doors with a torrent of arrows. Arrows and dropping bombs from underneath the Griffin War Wing withered the ranks to but a few Pegasus flyers.

“We can’t do this!” cried Soarin, flapping his wings furiously.

“We’re almost there! Keep at it,” cried Spitfire, gritting her teeth as she flapped harder.

Spitfire and Soarin finished creating the tornado as a few more of their comrades fell. The tunnel of wind smashed into the Griffin War Wing, causing it to turn right into a collision course with the wall of the mountain pass.

Royal Guards and Pegasus flyers whooped triumphantly at their apparent victory. However, their smiles and cheers quickly faded when a magical green shield appeared on the side of the airship. The magical barrier cushioned the War Wing and prevented it from hitting the side of the valley. The War Wing rebounded back into position.

After crashing atop a mountain plateau, Spitfire and Soarin panted heavily. Spitfire winced in pain from a now-mangled wing.

“They have magic!” said Soarin. “All is lost." Soarin tried to stand, but his broken right foreleg gave under his weight.

Spitfire looked towards the end of the valley. “No. There is one last hope.”

The white, bright cutting beam seared through the smokescreen. The first War Wing presented a green magical barrier. In a splash of green sparks, the beam penetrated the barrier. Explosions ruptured the hull of the ship.

The beam continued to the second War Wing. It sparked white and green as its energy struggled to break through the shield. Only seconds later it succeeded, and the second War Wing imploded.

The beam continued onward to the third airship. Again it sparked as the opposing energies fought for dominance; however, this time the beam flickered. The light faded, leaving the green defensive shield and the airship still intact.

Some Earth Pony troops ran hopelessly as the shadow of the airship overtook them. The crews abandoned their ballistae, throwing aside the ammunition they were loading. Soldiers under Blueberry’s command shoved past her, their discipline lost to abject fear. Unicorn beam teams gave up their fire and began meekly casting shields, which they cowered under.

“Celestia save us!” Blueberry said as she cringed and stared upwards at the third encroaching War Wing.

The War Wing’s bomb-bay doors opened. The angry humming of the War Wing’s engines drowned out all screams.

The humming briefly stopped, then resumed. The last of the War Wings reversed its propellers. Surviving Griffins shrieked and scurried to board the retreating ship.

The specter that the War Wing projected shrunk back, leaving in its wake a valley devastated by death’s shadow.

Chapter 10 Gathering Storm

View Online

Luna’s eyes appeared still freshly red from tears as she entered the council chamber through the moon roof access. All eyes were upon her, and side conversations silenced in respect. It was past noon, and many had been waiting past the point of eagerness into desperate anticipation.

Her words were halting and deliberate. “Dearest subjects, let us speak in all candor. My sister Celestia is in a coma and expected never to awaken. The one thousand years of peace she worked so hard to maintain have now shattered. There is no question that we are at war.”

Den scanned the room, recognizing many notable names. Princesses Cadance and Twilight flanked Luna. The Wonderbolt Captains Spitfire and Rainbow Dash stood to the side. Royal Guard Captain Shining Armor stood next to him.

“I have gathered you all here because you all were among her most-trusted council. I wish you to become mine in the difficult times to follow.”

Everypony murmured in agreement.

“I have taken time to study in order to make up for my absence. However, I must admit my sister leaves behind horseshoes which are difficult for me alone to fill. Now, my sister spoke on occasion of a Republic. It was something she’d joke about in fleeting moments of fancy but hesitated to make a reality. This is not because she did not trust you all; rather, my sister felt the nature of all ponies indicated that they were not ready. We were three races gathered as one; ours was an imperfect union. My sister felt then that it was necessary to guide our new nation through autocracy.”

Many ponies lowered their heads in shame.

“But I am not my sister. From here on forth, I declare a Republic. Members of my council, let us all speak equally. Let us martial the might of the people. All willing, Equestria shall prevail.”

All ponies in the council chamber trotted in place, giving thunderous applause.

A Griffin male and Zebra mare were led to the council chamber under guard.

“I’m glad we were able to prove our peaceful intentions before you killed us all,” said the Griffin.

Blueberry stepped up as they walked in between the rows of tables. “You two!” said Blue.

Den joined Blue. “Prince Reagle of the Griffin Kingdom,” he said disdainfully, “give us a reason why you shouldn’t be sent to the stockades."

Reagle scratched his beak. “Ah, Dented Armor. I remember. Our last battle didn’t end with you so…well.” He smirked.

Zaza jumped in front of Den and Reagle. “Cease this squabbling. Reagle, be nice. We come in peace.”

“No fighting in the war room!” one of the council mares—a pink pony—interjected, jumping in the middle of the fray.

An addition to a great castle floated upon the air. Clouds supported the stonework adjunct. A gray male Griffin with a fedora and black female Griffin walked through the floating garden. Between the fine stone-tiled pathways the banners of the Griffin Kingdoms flanked them.

The gray Griffin with the fedora spoke. “Our host, King Hawkmor, wishes to meet you. Be mindful of your words, Princess Larvi."

“Master, I wonder if he is as fierce as they say," the female Griffin responded.

In the middle of the garden stood a clearing surrounded by a small grove of trees. King Hawkmor sat on a simple chair behind a refreshment table. Queen Chrysalis, disguised as Grimfeathers, stood by the Griffin, rubbing his shoulders and whispering in his ear. A parasol cast a shadow over Chrysalis.

The brown Griffin smiled his beak, lifting in his chair slightly. “So you are Grimfeathers’ daughter?”

“Yes, King Hawkmor,” said Echo.

“Leave us,” said King Hawkmor, turning to Chrysalis.

“My King?” said Chrysalis, whispering in Hawkmor’s ear.

“It is alright,” said King Hawkmor with a smile. “When we are wed, she will be my daughter too. I would like to have at least one conversation with her alone.”

Chrysalis left with her two guards. Amorpheus joined her, bowing to the King and leaving Echo’s side.

King Hawkmor leaned his head to the left and right, taking a good look at Echo. With the curiosity of the mighty bird sated, he leaned back on his chair.

“It is a pleasure,” said Echo nervously.

“Indeed,” said King Hawkmor. “I’ve recently lost a son; to gain a daughter might offset that pain. Tell me of yourself."

“There’s not much to tell,” Echo answered.

“You folk are so secretive."

“My folk?”

King Hawkmor waved his claws. “Never mind. Tell me, what hobbies do you have?” he asked attentively.

“I enjoy fencing, ambrosia wine, and reading.”

“A reader, huh? I shall have our library brought to you. What genre do you prefer?”

“I used to like reading romantic tragedies. It seems now that I am living in one, I am not so fond of them."

“What ails you, child?” asked the King. “Anything you wish, I can grant.”

Echo sighed lightly. “I do not believe you could help me. It so happens that I love someone who happens to be my enemy.”

King Hawkmor chuckled. “You sound very much like my selfish son and his fixation with that Zebra mare. I weep that he has turned… traitor. I heard he destroyed three War Wings in his escape. I am saddened and relieved.” King Hawkmor stiffened. “As rulers, at times we must sacrifice our personal happiness for the greater benefit of our subjects. The one that holds the chains of command is also bound by the same chains as a solemn oath. Do you understand, my child?”

Echo lowered her head and a frown split her face. “Yes, I understand. I know what I must do but… I still…”

King Hawkmor scratched his beak, evidently feeling guilty for making Echo sad. His eyes relaxed. “I’m sorry, child. Who is this foe of yours that causes you such pain? He must be an absolute fool to reject a sensitive and beautiful lass such as yourself!”

“Thank you, but I do not think I am worthy of your praise.”

King Hawkmor rose majestically and drew his massive claymore sword. At full height, the King was impressive and imposing. He swung his sword whimsically. “Perhaps he can be brought to his senses, or to my blade. I’ll teach him what’s what!” King Hawkmor pounded his chest, chuckling heartily.

Echo smiled slightly at the King’s oafish demonstration.

Suddenly, King Hawkmor’s claymore clanged, falling to ground. He felt his forehead as searing pain lowered his stature, making him bow.

“My King, are you alright?!” asked Echo.

King Hawmor forced a smile. “Arghh, I’m sorry I must cut this short. As of late I’ve been getting these headaches. Only Grimfeathers’s company seems to soothe the pain. She’s been so caring.”

Reagle and Zaza were led to the center of the council room. They finished explaining their situation to eager ears.

“So these harpies are controlling your father?” asked Twilight.

“Yes, in particular, Grimfeathers,” explained Reagle. “Her harpies have completely taken over the Griffin Honor Guard. My father is a prisoner in mind and body."

“Harpies, we call them,” said Zaza, “but in your tongue, I believe they’re called Changelings.”

Several in the council chamber gasped. Even Den became wide-eyed.

“Changelings are a fearsome enemy,” said Shining Armor.

“How can we believe any of what you say?” asked Captain Rainbow Dash. “You could be a spy."

“Hey, we almost got killed bringing you this information,” said Reagle. “Take it or leave it."

Cadance stepped forward and looked over Reagle. “We’ll have to test you for magical mind manipulation.”

Reagle spread his wings. “Test away."

“This would explain how the Griffins attained mages of such skill,” offered Twilight.

“We can check the battlefield for Changeling corpses to confirm dere story,” Blueberry added.

Echo left the grove with a tear in her eye. Amorpheus waited for her outside. They still donned their Griffin disguises.

Echo wiped her eyes. “King Hawkmor—he is kindly, and to see one so mighty cowed and bowed… Mother’s mind magic hurts him greatly. In time it will kill.”

“It is not our place to question,” said Amorpheus. “As host, it is his role. Both the predator and prey have parts to play."

Echo shook her head in protest. “But we are not animals. We can reason and think. I wonder if there might be a better way. Might they be brought to our cause naturally if they knew our plight?”

“The world hates our kind. Who would accept us knowing what we are?”

Echo ran one of her Griffin-claws along the ground thoughtfully. “I knew of one."

“Princess Larvi, the personal feelings of one do not change history and destiny’s course."

“You speak and my mother’s voice comes out!” Echo stomped her foot angrily. “What then of our people’s secret dream? Substantiation? It goes against everything we’ve been taught. In light of history or destiny, do we do nothing? Do we accept our curse? Do we abandon it for later generations like our ancestors before?”

Amorpheus opened his beak to speak, but could not find a response. Instead, he pulled his hat over his eyes.

Echo reached out and hugged Amorpheus. “Master Amorpheus, I am sorry. You have always worried about me. I should not have yelled at you as I did. Can you forgive me?”

“Princess, you will be Queen one day,” Amorpheus reassured her. “Never ask for forgiveness—it is unbecoming of a monarch.”

“There is a question I have been meaning to ask you. Are you—” Echo’s question was interrupted.

With guards by her side, Queen Chrysalis, still disguised as Grimfeathers, strolled towards them.

“Come. It is time to show our people’s power.”

On the council-chamber floor, Reagle and Zaza continued to hold the attention of their Equestrian audience.

Reagle continued: “When Grimfeathers ‘proved’ to my father that she and her crows were from a lost line of magic-wielding Griffins, she was allowed a choice of whichever territory she coveted. She chose the Prison Castle of Anavrin. Since then, prisoners throughout the Griffin Kingdom have been sent there, ne’er to return."

Twilight scrawled notes furiously on a scroll in front of her. “Most likely it is a Changeling hive now,” she theorized. “They’ll have hundreds of prisoners providing them magic."

“Then it is there that we should strike back,” said Luna, “and with haste.”

“If you can help repair our airships, you may use them in your assault,” Zaza offered.

Den shook his head. “Even that won’t be enough."

“How many War Wing airships does the Griffin fleet have?” asked Shining Armor. “We estimate twelve.”

Reagle scoffed, “Try tripling that, and adding a whole host of support ships.”

Everypony murmured in amazement and trepidation.

Reagle smiled. “No need to soil yourselves. The 36 airships are divided amongst the noble houses of the vast Griffin Kingdoms. Most houses also keep a few in reserves to guard against one another. For the occupied territories, they are necessary for regional stability. The Prison Castle of Anavrin is only guarded by four War Wings at any given time.”

“Two Zebra airships tackling four War Wings is crazy,” said Blueberry.

“Then it’s a good thing that the Cloudsdale Project is complete,” said Captain Rainbow Dash, her voice cool and steady but containing an unmistakable undertone of pride. “When we examined the wreckage, we found some interesting results: the Griffins have solved the ballast issue that Cloudsdale has been struggling with for years. Luckily, we’ve managed to reverse-engineer and improve on their designs.” She considered the expressions of everyone looking at her, and waved her hoof dismissively at them. “Oh, no need to thank me. It was no biggie.”

“We have airships now?” asked Blueberry.

“We have an airship named the Thunderhead,” Rainbow explained. “It should be able to tangle with two of their War Wings, no problem."

“Then you must use this opportunity to strike,” said Reagle.

Spitefire shook her head in disagreement. “We’re not risking our only airship on a feather-brained attack.”

“No, the time is now to show them we are no weak foals,” said Luna, raising a hoof. “I authorize it. Who is with me? Do we have a majority?”

A great many in attendance raised their hoof in kind. “Aye!”

In the equipment room of the barracks, Den and Blue sat next to each other on a bench as they readied themselves. Den helped Blue into her war saddle.

Shining Armor stepped forward into the room. “Den, now that we know the Changelings are behind the Griffins, I need to know that your heart is in right place.”

Shining Armor’s question caused Den to stop and drop his lance. Den quickly picked it up, and responded coldly: “Are you asking if I can kill her?”

Shining Armor spoke steadily as he clarified: “Yes, can you fight and kill knowing one of your foes could be her?”

“Yes," said Den evasively.

“Do you know what is at stake?!” Shining Armor barked, staring Den down.

“Yes! I resolved myself when I wrote those letters to the families of those dead guards!” said Den angrily.

“Good, remember that. We’ll lose more soldiers yet in this terrible war,” said Shining Armor as he departed.

Reagle and Zaza peered curiously from behind the lockers.

“Hey feathers and stripes! I see you!” Blue shouted.

The Griffin and Zebra recoiled, then revealed themselves slowly.

Reagle scratched his beak. “Our apologies. Allow us to introduce ourselves formally. That is, outside of combat. I am Reagle Hawkmor, Prince Heir to House Hawkmor and the Griffin Kingdom.” Reagle offered his claw.

“I am called Zaza Zakar, Commander of the Zebra Tribal Confederation," said Zaza, offering her hoof.

Den and Blue shook claws with Reagle and tapped hooves with Zaza grudgingly.

“I’m Blueberry Frost, just a Vice Captain," said Blue simply.

“I’m Dented Armor. Call me Den. Sorry for the hostilities during the meeting," Den apologized.

“It is of no worry to me,” said Zaza. “Old grudges are hard to let go of."

“Reagle, Zaza, you seem well traveled," said Den hesitantly.

“Aye, we’ve seen many skies and lands," said Reagle.

“Do you know the best tactics when fighting magic users?” Den asked. “I’ve had training but I don’t think its enough.”

Reagle scratched the bottom of his beak. “Mage killing, eh?” Reagle smirked as he retrieved a black ball from a side pouch. “Your best bet is to get them with a close-range grenade in the face. They can’t focus their shields so finely. They often form their shield bubble with the grenade inside.”

“Is there a melee alternative?” asked Den.

Reagle drew two fine blades and spun them expertly before placing them back into the sheaths under his wing. “Raise two daggers, force their magical shields to block at two points, then cut through.”

“I was hoping for something that didn’t require magic or claws to use," said Den.

“Haha, my husband forgets that others have hooves, not claws," said Zaza.

“Husband? You two are married?” asked Blue.

“Aye, we are," said Reagle, proudly wrapping Zaza in his right wing.

Zaza rubbed her flank against the Griffin in return.

“Let’s return to the matter at hoof,” said Den impatiently. “Or claw, if you will.”

“Try team tactics,” Zaza offered. “One should distract the mage while the other attacks."

“Zaza is right. Two is better than one," Reagle added.

Blue tugged Den lightly. “We could work on that together. Right Den?”

Den ignored Blue. “How about one-on-one?” he asked.

Blueberry turned towards Den in surprise.

“I may have the answer you seek.” Zaza produced a small black bag of powder from her saddle bag. “This Dispel powder can disable Unicorn magic for a short minute or two. It is hard to deploy in combat.”

“Thanks," said Den as he examined the powder bag.

“A word of warning: it can paralyze you too if you are exposed to it," Zaza cautioned.

Four War Wings cruised toward an unknown destination. Echo entered the observatory deck to find Queen Chrysalis staring at the sinking sun. Beautiful amber light bathed the compartment. Chrysalis’s intimidating presence seemed to wane slightly in the warm light.

Echo looked to see that there were no guards, not even Amorpheus; she was alone with her mother for the first time. Echo timidly walked towards her Queen. “King Hawkmor was kind.”

“Yes, a weakness that was easily exploited," said Chrysalis, still staring at the sun as it submerged itself in the horizon’s waves.

“Is that all you feel towards him?” asked Echo, looking away from her.

“Child, speak with strength and authority,” said Chrysalis. “You are now a Princess."

“Have you ever felt anything towards any your targets?” asked Echo.

Chrysalis spoke in monotone. “That is a perverse topic. We do not play with our food.” Chrysalis paused for a moment, then sighed: “Yes.”

Echo blinked. “Really?”

Chrysalis smiled. “Daughter you have always questioned me. I respect that determination. It is what makes officers, commanders, and monarchs.” Chrysalis turned towards Echo. “However, if you’re probing me for weakness, you’ll find none now. I removed all that when I accepted my crown."

“No!” Echo asserted vehemently. “I just wanted to know. So, would you explain further?”

“I have felt something for each and everyone of my marks… even as I destroyed them," said Chrysalis.

Echo gasped. She prepared herself. “Mother… I always thought… You taught us to never feel. You taught us that we should detach ourselves.”

“To be so immersed in your role that you feel as they do, this is the secret to true infiltration. Yet it is dangerous, and for this reason we do not teach it. You can lose yourself and forget your purpose.” Chrysalis walked towards a window pane and stared into her reflection. “One or two of our agents in the past have so foolishly forgotten themselves they revealed their true natures. Tell me, daughter, what became of them.”

Echo stared at the reflection of her mother that glared at her, even by the proxy of the glass Chrysalis’s eyes burned with intensity. “They were killed by the ones they thought would accept them,” Echo replied from memory.

“You must always keep a part of yourself reserved. Do not forget this.”

“Mother, you have the charted the destiny of our people yet only you hold the map."

Chrysalis looked back to horizon. “I will show you that map when you are ready.”

“Ready? When will I be ready?”

“I have watched you from that very first day. I felt pride when you slew your first target. I felt the same pain as you when I subjected you to pure despair. Now, you are all grown up… but there much more for you to learn.”

The setting sun dimly-illuminated the small office. Den sat at his desk with his lance propped up next to him. His head slumped as he stared at the dark powder-bag.

Blueberry walked in. “Den, you’re, ummm… planning to use that on Echo, aren’t you?” Blue spoke nervously as she sat down with Den.

“Yup," said Den aloofly.

“Den, maybe there could be another way.”

“Nope."

“Maybe a live capture,” Blue suggested. “There are magical restraints and stuff like that.”

Den sat up and shot Blue an annoyed glance. “Then what? I keep her locked up in a cage? The Royal Guard will execute her.” Den touched his lance and the cold metal stung his flesh. “There’s no other way.”

“Okay, forget the ‘how.’ After you’ve killed her, what do you plan to do?”

Den returned a blank look. “Well, I didn’t think that far.” He chuckled nervously.

“Damn it, Den! You’re supposed to be the thinker. What are you going to do?”

“Sightseeing. There’s a cliff I really want to visit. Dad was quite fond of it."

Blue smacked Den in the face. “Where does that leave me!?” said Blue tearfully.

Den bit back bitterly: “Blueberry, I’m not in love with you!”

“You bastard. You’re still my friend… and more. Your family took me in when I had nothing and was nothing. You’re da only family I got now! If you die I might as well be nothing again! I don’t even remember what mah birth parents look like, but I remember you and your dumb dad. I don’t got no one, nowhere... I don’t want to be alone again. Don’t leave me alone.” Blueberry’s eyes welled up.

Den looked up and his eyes relaxed. “I didn’t know you felt so strongly about it.” He hugged Blue.

Blue sniffled. “You meanie, you think about everything and everyone except for me…”

“Blue, the only reason I didn’t want to date you was because I thought of you as a sister. Even though you came to us so late, you brought joy to our family after mom died. It was just what we needed."

“Sister?” Blue smiled.

“Yeah, little sis," said Den, rubbing her mane.

“Brother!” smiled Blue, squeezing Den tighter.

They lingered on the embrace for several moments more.

“Den, don’t go face her alone,” said Blue. “I can’t see you hurt."

“I understand," said Den.

Sparks flew into the evening as Unicorns helped Zebra engineers repair the damaged plating of the striped ships. Reagle and Zaza walked about the gangways that overlooked the workers. Zaza admired a group of sweating Unicorn workers. One of them fainted when her magic gave out. An Earth-Pony team with a stretcher carried the exhausted worker away, and she was swiftly replaced.

Zaza chewed on her words. “Such resolution in these ponyfolk. To think if we had invaded we would have faced a spear in every corner like the blades of grass.”

“We Griffins were never too good at occupations," said Reagle.

“Prince Reagle, perhaps you would like to occupy me tonight?” Zaza smiled.

Reagle smiled. “Milady, again? You spoil me.”

“As you do me, my love," said Zaza, snuggling under Reagle’s wings.

Reagle pecked at Zaza with light kisses. Reagle tried to maintain his enthusiasm but faltered. He turned away.

“What is it my Prince?” asked Zaza.

“Not tonight. A terrible thought plagues me. I need to brood upon it. I will have to face my father. Should we be unable to lift the curse—or worse, if his intentions are entirely his own—I won’t know what to do.” Reagle lowered his beak.

“Reagle, your father cherishes you. A terrible fog clouds his mind, but your beacon of light will let him see through it."

“You always make me see things more clearly by taking me away with your metaphors,” chuckled Reagle.

Zaza threw her head back and walked away flicking her tail. “Now, my Prince, invade me deeply tonight. I want to regret nothing for the coming fight.”

Waves lapped against a castle which stood on a mountain jutting from the sea. While the other three War Wings circled the castle like vultures, the flagship docked with the castle’s spire. Chrysalis disembarked along a narrow ramp, with Echo and Amorpheus following closely behind. They talked amongst themselves as they descended the stairs winding down the spire tower, all the while noticing the wall-mounted tapestries which told of the Griffin Kingdoms’ past heroic victories against the Equestrian Pegasi.

“The Griffin Kingdoms’ warring nature was a boon to us,” said Chrysalis. “The hawks hungrily expanded their borders, but they feed us now."

“Feed us? How?” Echo asked her Queen Mother.

They reached the bottom of the stairway and came upon a large, sealed door. Chrysalis unlocked it with a burst of magic from her horn. It creaked open, revealing a massive chamber. As they entered and proceeded along a raised walkway, Echo looked below her at row upon row of green, glowing cocoons.

Chrysalis motioned at the cocoons with her hoof in a wide arc. “As you can see, there is no shortage of enemy soldiers, malcontents, and criminals in these lawless lands.”

Awestruck, Amorpheus removed his fedora. “Never before have I seen so many souls gathered. Truly, this is indescribable.”

“Such... power,” Echo gasped.

“My daughter, we have marshaled this power,” said Queen Chrysalis. “It is the war-chest that will fund our renewed invasion of Equestria.”

Chapter 11 Ill Met in Moonlight

View Online

The moon was round and pale, and this heavenly jewel looked especially brilliant against the dull background of the cloudy evening sky which cast its dark curtain upon the motionless, fog-laden sea. A massive fortress of an airship with a multitude of gun ports and landing bays on either side glided silently above the water. Platoons of Pegasi pushed forward the fog covering hiding the advance of the battleship. Two comparatively-diminutive striped airships trailed after.

From the bridge of one of the Zebra ships, Reagle and Zaza stared in awe at the vessel in front of them. Den and Blue stood closely by.

“You must admit,” Reagle chirped. “When the Equestrians build airships, they build them big.”

Zaza nodded. “A Cloud Carrier, they call it,” she said.

“Yes, but technically it’s the other way around,” Den explained. “Actually, clouds carry the Thunderhead. We Pegasi have built many cities in the clouds using such technology.”

“I have read the history of your people,” Reagle said. “In your time, you were lauded as weather warlords. A pity you chose submission to the Alicorn goddesses.”

“We still beat you Griffins and drove you out of Equestria,” Den countered. “With your lack of magic you were fodder for dragons until only recently, as I recall.”

Reagle seethed a bit, looking at Den threateningly. They appeared on the verge of coming to blows.

“Let’s not fight!” Blue interjected.

Zaza coughed in an attempt to distract them. “Past history aside, with such a weapon, this operation has a chance of success.”

“Oh, it’ll succeed alright,” said Blue confidently.

Luna and Twilight Sparkle stood on the bridge of the Thunderhead, overseeing its operation. Around them, pony technicians tended to the intricate assembly of gauges and levers.

Twilight looked at a number of gauges and compared them against a checklist. “Princess, all readings are within normal parameters. The cloud generators are operating at maximum efficiency.”

“We shall avenge my sister’s sacrifice here.” Luna’s voice was disturbingly cold.

Twilight carried on with her work, but voiced her concern for the moon princess. “Luna, this isn’t about vengeance. This preemptive strike is to ensure the safety and security of us all.”

Luna caught herself. “You are right, Twilight Sparkle.”

Captain Shining Armor entered the bridge and saluted. “Princesses, we are in range.”

“Excellent,” said Luna. “Now is the time! Captain, send word to fire all cannons. They shall taste the fury of our barrage!”

The Thunderhead’s gun ports swung open, launching cannonballs through the clouds with a reverberating boom and flashes that illuminated the evening sky .

Chrysalis walked with Echo and Amorpheus through the rows of green cocoons. Wingless Changeling workers tended carefully to the pods.

“With so much power, what do you intend to do?” asked Echo.

“Contained within these souls is enough magic to teleport entire armies,” said Amorpheus. “We could be at the doorsteps of our enemies in but a blink."

“Never mind the minor magic,” said Echo. “What of substantiation?”

“Even this amount of energy is not enough for that," said Chrysalis dismissively.

An officer stumbled towards them. “My Queen, we are under attack! The Equestrians have airships! We’ve already lost a War Wing!”

A War Wing was ripped asunder by the combined cannon onslaught of the Thunderhead and the Zebra ships. The remaining three War Wings quickly responded to the explosions by encasing themselves in magical energy shields. Stray cannonballs exploded harmlessly against the auras, and the gun ports of the War Wings quickly opened to retaliate.

Shining Armor and Cadance stood facing one another on the Thunderhead’s coning tower.

“Now, my love," said Shining Armor.

“Let our bond be an unbreakable shield," said Cadance.

They touched horns, enveloping the Thunderhead and Zebra airships in a powerful pink shield wall. Flying cannon balls peppered the barrier.

Sweat quickly lining their brows, Shining Armor and Cadance looked at each other lovingly and smiled as blasts behind them resonated against the shield.

A teal Pegasus clad in black and silver armor and sporting a gleaming silver javelin flew in front of her regiment composed of Pegasus fliers and a small number of menacing, leather-winged bat ponies from Luna’s personal guard. They all awaited the word to attack, which Captain Rainbow Dash provided with a smirk.

“For Equestria!” she shouted to the cheers of thousands. “Follow me!”

Zaza and Blueberry assembled in the hanger of the Zebra airship along with a multitude of Zebra Zerkers and Royal Guards.

“Prepare your equipment,” Blueberry commanded. “When they breach those walls we’re the first ones in, okay?”

The Royal Guards nodded, readying their lances.

Zaza followed with a speech in Zebra-tongue: “@%#?????!” Blueberry leaned her head to the side, trying to decipher the foreign dialect and tone. Zaza’s speech sent the Zerkers stamping their hooves and rearing upwards in enthusiasm.

“And what she said!” cried Blueberry to the Royal Guards.

Dark clouds of Changeling fliers armed with ebony spears came pouring from the War Wings. Den and Reagle flew to meet them.

Reagle sighed. “I suppose it would make sense they have only Changeling guards at their hive,” he said. “I am glad I don’t have to kill my brainwashed comrades.”

“I’m glad too,” said Den. “You guys are tough. I wouldn’t want to fight you.”

“Indeed,” Reagle chirped.

The lines collided. Fliers on both sides fell as they were impaled by lances. Soon it became a brutal dogfight as Pegasi and Changelings flew circles around one another trying to impale each other.

Den saw a Changeling with a lance chasing after Reagle. “Got one on your tail!” cried Den, his wings flapping vigorously to catch up with the Changeling. He readied his lance to spear it but images of Echo flashed through his mind. Instead, he impaled the Changeling’s right wing, taking a chunk of it. The Changeling buzzed in an attempt to remain airborne, but it could not maintain altitude and spun downwards.

“Amateurish work,” Reagle scolded. “You should have gone for the kill.”

“You owe me one!” Den spat back.

Reagle drew his sword and deflected a spear away from Den. As his sword skidded down the length of the enemy spear he angled the blade and beheaded the Changeling using its own momentum. “And the favor is returned!”

The Zebra ships fired their cannons in directed volleys, chipping away and then breaching a section of the wall, which gave them an opening to drop boarding ramps.

“Charge!” cried Blueberry as she ran down the boarding ramp into the castle. Royal Guards poured in after her.

“@%#!” Zaza yelled a similar order in her Zebra language. Her Zebra Zerkers trotted forward.

Queen Chrysalis and her officers crowded into the castle war room, a large dome-shaped structure adorned by torches burning with magical blue flames. Changeling officers moved around tiny toy airships around a small model of the island fortress. Chips of the building’s mortar fell as the fortress shook from heavy cannon fire.

A near-breathless Changeling soldier entered the War Room and bowed. “My Queen, they breached the western walls! The Equestrians have deployed ground troops! The worker caste is defenseless!”

Another Changeling nearly crashed as he flew into the room. “The enemy airship is defended by the Canterlot Shield, and our cannon fire is ineffective! Our third airship’s shields were taken down. It’s bleeding smoke!”

The Changeling officers gaped with alarm.

“Can we summon reinforcement from the Griffin Kingdoms?”

“They’ll arrive too late.”

“All the energy we’ve gathered—the harvest is lost,” said a despondent Changeling officer. “We were so close. Now nothing."

“Can we rebuild?”

“Not after this.”

The many voices in the War Room fell silent as they stared expectantly at their Queen.

“My monarch, we must make our escape while the War Wings distract them!” Amorpheus advised.

Chrysalis began laughing hysterically. “They’re attacking here!?”

“My Queen, we need commands,” pleaded a Changeling.

Chrysalis was still absorbed with her laughing fit. “They’re attacking here!” Chrysalis reiterated. Her green eyes had a crazed look as she cackled.

The Changeling officers looked to each other with fear and doubt. The lack of leadership from their sovereign caused a stir.

“Princess Larvi, what shall we do?” suggested one voice. It was Amorpheus.

Echo snapped from her stupor and stood tall. “Apparently Mother has gone mad, but I am your Princess! I shall organize the defenses. We need to get to the control tower and signal our ships. Move!” Echo’s wings began buzzing.

Inside the castle the ground battle raged. Blueberry lunged, avoiding a Changeling spear strike. Zaza jumped and smashed the Changeling against a stone wall. She kicked the Changeling in the head, finishing it off.

“That seems to be all of them in this part of the castle,” said Blue her chest heaving. “We’re gaining lots of ground. I’m surprised."

“We are where they least expect us,” Zaza panted. “However we can be sure to expect more."

Blue paused, diverting her attention to the green cocoons, one of which contained an armored Pegasus. “These are Royal Guards. I recognize their armor. They are from the Expeditionary forces into the White Wastes.”

A Zebra Zerker pointed a hoof at a cocoon that contained one of his own, calling attention to the swirl pattern on the Zebra’s flank. “These here are warriors from the Anazazi tribe.”

“So many... We’ve passed so many,” said Blue. “There’s a city here at least. Maybe two cities!”

“We can free our friends later,” said Zaza. “Come, we must advance!”

Echo and Amorpheus arrived at the control tower. The structure had large glass windows, through which Changelings shined large beacon lights into the distance. The Changelings turned and saluted.

Echo took a deep breath then commanded: “Signal the War Wings to rally on the eastern side of the island. Have them blast a hole through the battlements! We will retreat from there and evacuate the flightless worker caste!”

“Those are some complex orders to relay in horse code," said a Changeling operating the shutters for a signal spotlight.

“Best get on it!” snapped Amorpheus.

Echo saw the Thunderhead unload another volley of cannon fire. The assault collapsed one of the War Wing’s shields. The last rounds exploded against the ship’s hull. The ship began bleeding smoke.

“That enemy ship has so many more guns,” stammered Amorpheus. “Our shield teams cannot withstand them.”

Echo turned to the signal operators. “Signal the War Wings! Have them use each other as cover! Rotate so that when one shield is broken, the others will protect it as its shield team recovers!”

“A genius strategy," said Amorpheus, shooting her a look of astonishment.

“It will buy time," said Echo.

The battle in the skies intensified. Fliers meshed in the air while the airships dueled, trading volleys of cannon fire.

Den and Reagle were both blinded as a flickering spotlight beamed past them. In the winking of the spotlight’s shutter he recognized a pattern.

“That’s code they’re flashing!” shouted Den as he performed a barrel roll to avoid a Changeling.

“That must be the Air Control tower then!” said Reagle, pointing in the direction of the light with his sword.

“Let’s take it out!”

“Great minds think alike!”

A Changeling officer scrambled up the stairs of the control tower. “New orders from the Queen! We are to immediately withdraw every Changeling that is able. Those who cannot are to be abandoned.”

“What’s going on?” Echo asked. “We are going to withdraw without our workers? Belay that order!”

The beacon operators shook their heads. “Orders from the Queen supersede that of the Princess," one of them said.

The spotlights began broadcasting the new orders.

“Amorpheus, help with the evacuation of the workers,” Echo commanded. “Fly to one of the airships and see if we can’t convince a captain to stay longer."

“Princess Larvi, I am not leaving you," said Amorpheus, planting his hooves firmly on the ground.

Echo snarled. “I am the Princess. I order you to do as I bid.”

“Now you’re speaking like a Princess,” smiled Amorpheus, tipping his fedora. “Very well.”

“I’m going to see mother. She’s still in the castle. Maybe I can talk sense to her." Echo placed her hooves on Amorpheus’s shoulders.

“Good luck, Princess. I will wait for you."

“Do not wait for me. If I fail you will lead our people! You are wise and kindly, and with you they will survive.” Echo hugged Amorpheus.

“But…” Amorpheus gave a pained expression.

Echo pushed Amorpheus back. “That is an order!” she said fiercely as tears poured from her eyes.

Amorpheus nodded and flew down the stairway of the tower.

Aboard the bridge of the Thunderhead, Luna sat on the edge of her seat looking intently at the battle as it unfolded. She smiled as she saw the War Wings begin to turn away.

“They are retreating,” she said. “This is glorious! Now, pursue them.”

Twilight countered: “Luna! We should be more conservative with our forces!”

“Nay, I say now is the time to advance!” Luna shouted, her voice booming. “Let us deploy our reserves and seize their fortress!”

The control-tower glass shattered, alarming the Changelings. Reagle and Den threw themselves at the Changeling throng. Reagle impaled several with his lance, while Den spiraled and knocked out several more with his own. During the brawl, Den couldn’t help but notice the tip of a ghostly green mane disappear into a stairwell.

“Echo!” Den made for the stairwell.

Reagle cut back a couple of Changelings with his sword. “Hold a bloody tick! Don’t get too deep!” yelled the Griffin, chasing after the Pegasus.

Den was soon lost in the maze of the castle’s hallways. The gray-stone walls all looked alike. A Changeling emerged from a dark corner and attacked Den. It was a flightless worker; its attacks were wide and clumsy. It rasped angrily as it attacked with a spear.

“Get out of my way!” said Den, ducking the attacks.

“Begone, invader!” hissed the persistent worker as he fought on.

“Run or die!” cried Den, dodging the slow strikes.

Finally, in frustration, Den rammed the lance into the Changeling’s chest. The creature squirmed for a few moments before falling. Den’s lance was dampened by the Changeling’s life liquid. He looked uneasily at the dead Changeling.

“Echo will be harder," said Den, grinding his teeth.

Reagle finally rejoined Den.

“There you are! Odin’s odors, and they call me rash!” said Reagle.

“I saw her," said Den, lost in his own thoughts.

“Who?” asked Reagle in confusion.

From the dimly-lit hallway ahead, a few shadows moved along the ground.

“The enemy,” whispered Reagle.

Den snapped back to attention. “Right, we’ll ambush them.”

Reagle and Den charged, stopping in their tracks when they stumbled upon a familiar blue-coated mare and a female Zebra warrior. Embarassed, they turned their weapons away.

“You oafs! Aren’t you supposed to be flying air support?!” shouted Blue.

“Where are we?” asked Den.

“Near the center tower and the castle keep, but it is crazy we have not encountered much resistance so far," said Zaza.

“Come, let’s go together," Blue insisted, motioning forward.

Echo entered the massive war room chamber. She found Chrysalis still calmly staring at the model of the castle fortress.

Echo jumped in front of Chrysalis and pushed her face almost against her mother’s. “Mother, what is wrong? Why did you not take command until now? And might I add, your orders make no sense!”

Chrysalis smiled, patting Echo on the head and rubbing her green mane. “Little one, I wanted to see if you’d take charge.”

Echo shook her head as she composed her mane. “Now is not the time for a test.”

“My daughter, you have studied the higher magics, haven’t you?” asked Chrysalis.

“Yes, and?" said Echo dismissively.

Chrysalis gestured her hoof at the small model of the castle. “Tell me, what shape is this fortress? Look here at the positions of the five main towers. See how they are so perfectly distanced from the center and each other. Look here where the center tower is. Where we are." Chrysalis pointed gleefully at the small toy tower.

Echo’s eyes widened with astonishment and anger. “This is a magical conduit array…” She gasped. “You’re going to kill everyone! The worker caste, they’re flightless. We haven’t been able to evacuate them all!”

“Necessary sacrifices,” Chrysalis declared, “to keep the Equestrians guessing and further ensnared. They will be remembered in the annals of our history.” Chrysalis knocked the large table on its side, causing the toy pieces and models to spill out onto the floor. Using her magic, Chrysalis materialized a cylindrical spiral stairway.

Echo looked on in shock. “There must be another way!” she protested.

“Daughter, defend this chamber to the death. Our people’s future is at stake. If we lose this fortress and our harvest, all will indeed be lost." Chrysalis descended into the stairwell, which then disappeared behind her, leaving the façade of stonework to once again take its place.

Den, Blue, Zaza, and Reagle reached an enormous chamber lit by blue torch-flames and lined with ominous gothic-Griffin statues.

Reagle examined the empty seats and tables. “This is appears to be the war room, but where is their support staff?”

“Not to mention, where are their officers?” Zaza added.

Den staggered forward, examining the room more closely. He reached the other end and found, slumped behind a large table turned on its side, the Changeling with the ghostly green mane and emerald eyes—Echo.

“De-De-Den?!” said Echo stammering.

“Echo, you’re behind this?” said Den, tensing his body.

Echo winced and, taking a deep breath, stood tall, saying in a commanding voice: “All of you must leave. The castle and the grounds, it’s all a trap. It’s a massive magical array designed to leech life. You may save some of your army!”

“Holy hell!” said Reagle, his beak agape.

“Go!” cried Echo, her horn aglow, emanating a pressure that made her words carry physically and mentally.

Den looked back at his companions. “I may stop this. You three go back and warn everyone else. Reagle, Zaza, take my sister Blue to safety.”

“You’re not facing her alone!” cried Blueberry, ready to spring into action.

“Leave him, we have to escape!” cried Reagle, pulling Blueberry back.

“Come, Blue one," said Zaza, joining Reagle in restraining her.

“Den!” Blueberry called behind her as the Griffin and Zebra led her away. The door shut behind them.

Under the unnatural blue light of the magical torches, Den confronted Echo.

“Why did you stay?” asked Echo, her voice as chilled as an icicle. “I gave you a chance to leave.”

Den ignored her question and thought about the last time they spoke, when it was apparent she was an altogether different creature than the vulnerable one he’d met on that cliff in what seemed like a lifetime ago. “So, Princess Larvi, is it?”

Echo simply nodded and gestured to Den’s chest. “Your armor—so you’re a full Captain now?”

The reminder of his rank caused Den to raise his weapon defensively.

“What is it that you think you’re going to do with that lance?” said Echo casually. She stalked from side to side, looking him over. “You won’t hurt me. You love me.”

Den snarled and swiped his lance, cutting Echo’s cheek. “Do I? Or do I love the hollow mask?”

Echo snarled, flying backward. “You killed Thorax! Your lance now is dripping with Changeling blood—my people’s blood!” She fired a beam that scorched Den’s shoulder.

Den bit his teeth together and ignored the pain. “Twelve guards were killed by your friends. And now all these people will die!”

Echo paused. “Leave now, or I will kill you,” she said callously. “You cannot best me in combat." Echo’s horned glowed with green energy as she moved toward him threateningly.

Royal Guards and Zebra Zerkers ran frantically to board the Zebra ships.

“Hurry everyone!” shouted Zaza. “Drop everything, even your weapons!”

Blueberry lay hogtied next to Zaza. “Den!” she murmured with tears in her eyes.

Aboard the Thunderhead, Reagle rushed inside the bridge, panting heavily. Princesses Luna and Twilight looked over at him in surprise.

“It’s a trap! It’s all a trap!” shrieked Reagle as Luna’s night guards immobilized him.

The entire war room had been virtually torn to pieces: the stonework was chipped, several torches had been knocked over, and fragments of chairs and tables charred by magic and smashed by a lance littered the floor. In silence, Den and Echo circled one another, each examining the other’s tiniest movements. Den locked eyes with Echo in intense focus, to which she winced. Den saw his chance: he charged at her, drawing the powder bag from under his armor. She readied her magic for a counterattack, but Den lobbed the powder bag in the air and swiftly dodged her. Echo’s beam hit the powder bag before it had reached the floor, causing its contents to scatter into the air.

The white powder covered her Echo. She coughed and reeled back. “What was that?” she said, shaking herself of any visible powder.

Den lunged at Echo with his lance. Echo smirked confidently and prepared to attack him again only to find her horn flickering pathetically.

“You blocked my magic!” gasped Echo.

“Yes, you rely on magic too much.” Den sneered.

“And you think I wasn’t trained to fight without it?!” said Echo as she drew a spear from a Griffin guard statue.

Den charged again, but Echo managed to block the tip of his lance. Den flapped his wings and faced away from her, kicking her backward with hishind-hooves. She lost her balance, and the spear fell to the ground. Den kicked it across the room and poised himself over Echo with his lance pointed at her chest.

“I wonder if I stab you there I’ll hit your heart?” snarled Den. “Do you even have one?”

For a moment, Den stared at Echo; she appeared resigned to defeat and her eyes were sadly serene, much like that mare he met at the Canterlot cliffs.

A spark came from Echo’s horn. “You missed your chance to find out,” she said. “Magic’s back on.”

Echo suspended Den telekinetically in the air, undid and ripped away his war saddle, and swung his lance around so the tip faced him. Finally she tensed and readied herself to plunge the lance into his heart, but all at once she dropped Den and the lance, sending him crashing to the cold, stone floor. He started to get up with a groan but was assailed by Echo, who jumped on and wrapped her forelegs around him.

“I...” Den managed to sputter the beginning of a sentence before groaning as Echo’s choking hug squeezed the air out of him.

The castle began shaking violently with a low rumble, the vibrations stronger than that from simple cannon fire.

“You foal,” said Echo, “embrace me as if it were the last, as it surely will be!”

The two lovers gripped each other. Echo arched her head and kissed Den deeply in the mouth. They closed their eyes, oblivious to the demonic, green arcane energy which began to surge through the chamber.

The pale emerald energy penetrated everything. The tendrils sprouting, it jumped. Potted plants in the castle garden withered to husks. The tendrils chased Pegasi and Changelings using one body to arc to another after another regardless of race. From the skies dots began dropping. There were metallic clangs as pieces of armor hit the castle stone. Their wearers were mummified shells with expressions of pure despair sunk upon their faces.

The tentacles extended towards a retreating War Wing. It strangled a small Changeling in flight then jumped onto the ship. That small connection was enough to spread the green glow throughout. The ship pulsated with lines like blood veins spread across a gripping claw. As the line reached the Changeling captain, he fell dead clasping onto the steering wheel. The War Wing veered into the ocean, exploding.

Blue and Zaza stared at the second Zebra airship through the rising boarding ramp. Green energy engulfed the second ship that was still docked with the castle. Zaza pushed Blue back as demonic tendril reached through the boarding ramp almost grabbing them in its clutches. Pony and Zebra hugged one another in fear.

The Thunderhead was assaulted by a great many tentacles. Shining Armor gasped as Cadance collapsed on the ground beside him. The pink shield absorbed barrage after barrage of the lashing before imploding in pink spark. Shining Armor fell atop Cadance to protect her. However, before the tentacles reached him another shield was deployed, this time purple in color. A lavender mare ran to the coning tower. The ponderous airship barely pulled away before that shield, too, collapsed.

The tendrils reaching their maximum range, the energy pulsated further spreading themselves until they diffused forming a dome of white. The affected area was absorbed in white. Even the evening full moon was trumped by this brighter light. In the deepest part of the fortress in the chamber of pure light was a dark being. Diabolical laughing echoed through the chamber. Its eyes opened emerald green.

Chapter 12 Shapeless Dream

View Online

Den and Echo shared a bed. They both gasped from the conclusion of their heated passion, and they cuddled next to one another while gazing into each other’s eyes.

“Den, why did you spare me?” asked Echo.

“There’s always this sweet sadness in your eyes even when you’re happy,” said Den. “I can’t seem to place it. It’s always like you’re holding back. You’re afraid to be happy. I would one day like to see that darkness disappear."

Echo laughed, her voice again ringing in her hollow melody.

“What’s so funny?” asked Den.

“That you couldn’t kill me because of a look in my eyes? I can change my eyes to any color.” Echo stared into Den’s eyes.

Den looked turned away. “It’s more than that. I am sorry; I am not the perfect knight. Echo, when I said I’d choose Equestria over you… that’s changed.”

“You’d fall for me?” asked Echo.

“I already have; you know it to be so. If you asked it of me, I would be your Captain."

“You still love your country and people, right?”

Den looked away nervously. “Yeah, I do." he said.

“I could ask you to be my Captain; however, I fear in accepting that it may destroy you," said Echo.

“Huh?” said a pained Den.

“I’m deeply touched that you would betray everything you are for me,” said Echo. “But by my side the thought would linger in you. In time you may resent me for asking."

“This is the same conflict you have as a Changeling right? You sent that warning before the Canterlot Invasion.”

“Yes, I have seen your land. I know why you fight for it. Would you bear with me still, as your people are used as a crop, farmed in cocoons, trapped and fed false dreams?”

“I don’t believe that’s your people’s true goal. I understand survival, but enslaving all of Equestria goes beyond that. That’s just pure greed. You would fight for a cause so despicable? That’s not the Echo I know."

“You’ve read of my people’s curse, haven’t you?” asked Echo.

“Yeah.”.

“The versions of the fable differ,” said Echo. “In ours there is mention of a cure: substantiation. It is the secret dream of my people. With enough magic it may be possible to free me and my people of the curse. We could feel real emotions and love in return."

“What we have between us, is that not love?” asked Den sadly. “Haven’t we dispelled doubt? You mean so much to me.”

“Knowing now what you know… Den, could you ask me to betray my people?” asked Echo.

“I couldn’t be happy with you suffering.”

“Den, I could make you forget about me. I have the magic.".

“No!” Den shouted. “You would remember me and suffer alone.”

“You’re so thoughtful. I love you so," said Echo, hugging Den.

“I love you more than I know," said Den, lightly kissing the top of her head.

The council chamber was darkened by the shadows that hung above everyone’s heads. The sky was cloudy and only gray light entered through the moon roof. The members sighed sadly at the empty seats in the room. Injured officers nursed their limbs. There were several officers still in shock, their eyes glaring into the distance.

Cadance and Shining Armor leaned against one another; their legs were weak, and only by each other could they stand.

Captain Rainbow Dash’s wings dangled from her body, her energy sapped. “More than twenty percent.” she gasped, looking at some papers and the empty seats.

“A third of our forces lost…” murmured Shining Armor with a faced thinned from all the magic he’d used.

Luna looked at the empty seats and broken ponies around her. As she stood in the center of the floor, her legs gave out. “I’m so sorry, everyone! This is my fault. If I wasn’t so zealous more could have been saved!” Luna cried into her legs.

Twilight Sparkle hugged the moon Princess. “This was no one’s fault.”

“No, Twilight Sparkle, this is my fault. I ordered our reserves out. We couldn’t pull everyone back in time.” Luna wept.

“It’s the Unicorns. They should have sensed something was up! My beloved Rose is dead now!” cried an Earth Pony Royal Guard.

A white Unicorn mage gasped. “It’s the Pegasi! If they hadn’t worried about saving their own feathers they could have carried more ponies out of range!” she pointed a hoof at the Pegasi officers.

“Don’t pin this on us! It’s the Earth Pony infantry, if they had gotten to the center of the array faster they could’ve stopped the spell!” cried Captain Rainbow Dash defending her fliers.

Reagle gave a shrill shriek that silenced everyone. “It is my fault! I gave you the information," said Reagle shaking.

“It is our fault," said Zaza bowing.

Angry looks were shot at the Griffin and Zebra.

“It’s their fault! They must working with the enemy!” shouted a wounded Guard in anger.

“Spies!’ shouted somepony.

“Stop this!! A Zebra ship went down. They lost good people too. We all have lost,” A cerulean mare spoke. Her eyes were puffy and dry from crying, “It’s everyone’s fault. We’re a Republic now aren’t we? Didn’t we vote for this attack? Wasn’t it u- nam -animous?” Blueberry gave up pronouncing the complicated word. “Y’all voted for it! I remember no nays!” Blueberry’s tirade stopped the attacks on the couple.

Silence and shame filled the room.

“The whole castle was a conduit array. They were waiting for us to attack.,” said Twilight. “They knew we couldn’t afford not to, either. We would have eventually have had to stop them. This was unavoidable, at least we had some warning."

Luna had risen again. Her head was held high. “Our enemy hath dealt a strong blow. However they have blundered, we remain. It would be insult to the memory of the fallen if we were to surrender now. My sister, she had a dream for our nation that all ponies could live in harmony and peace. Now, under threat, we must pull together to make that dream happen!”

“Equestria prevails! Hail the Lunar Republic!”

Locked in their embrace, thoughts flashed into Den’s mind. It was their final moment before the white light took. He remembered the fortress. “Hold on, this is dream space!” cried Den in realization.

“Our dream space! Only in dreams can males last so long. I’m dreaming with you.” Echo nuzzled Den.

“You’re with me? Not an illusion right?” asked Den, blinking.

“Yeah, I’m not sure but I think we’re both sleeping. We could be dead," said Echo, throwing her hooves up.

“Heaven is here with you," said Den.

Den and Echo awoke. Den scurried back; they were surrounded by changelings. It was a throne room and they were sitting on a red carpet covered floor.

Chrysalis towered over the lovers, her body emanated energy.

“Mother?” questioned Echo.

Chrysalis’s voice crackled with power that influenced minds. There seemed to be no volume control now. “Daughter, I heard your traitorous words echo from above the stairwell. So it was you who warned them. I had hoped to net the Equestrian Princesses in my snare also.” Chrysalis’ eyes burned with anger, “Your interference cost me complete victory! Explain yourself daughter!”

Den rose to defend Echo, but she moved him aside.

“Mother, I love this pony named Dented Armor. He is flawed but he loves and accepts me. I could not let him die nor that he which loves." said Echo.

“What other treasons have you to confess?!” Chrysalis blasted.

“I also warned them of Canterlot.” Echo sneered.

“Traitor!” screamed Chrysalis.

“There’s a better way! Den helped me find it. We can find love naturally! We don’t have to kill or hurt others! There are ponies out there that can look beyond what lies on the surface! And even if we achieve our dream, what worth would it be if we become monsters in the process?” said Echo, standing up and resisting the mental and physical pressure.

“You would betray me!?” exclaimed Chrysalis, absolutely seething with anger.

“Madness! Stop this!” said Amorpheus to Chrysalis.

“My daughter must be taught a lesson!” Chrysalis scowled, her horn glowing white-hot.

“That is too much!” Amorpheus shouted. “Chrysalis, you would kill our only daughter!!!??” Amorpheus jumped in front of Chrysalis’s beam. The beam seared through the Changeling. His fedora fell from his head and floated to the ground.

Echo grabbed the fallen Changeling. “Amorpheus, you’re my father?! I always thought you wanted-”

The changeling coughed, spewing blue blood onto the carpet. “Princess Larvi, my daughter, I love you. Chrysalis… I love you also. You two have given shape to my dream. Please, let there be peace between you two….that which in the wide world I most cherish.”

“No… no… no.” Chrysalis’s face was agape.

More blood spurted out as he spoke. He turned toward Chrysalis. “Chrysalis, I’m sorry for disobeying that order you gave so long ago…” The final torrent of blood flowed out as Amorpheus spoke his last breathe. The blue glow of his eyes faded into black.

Chrysalis shoved Echo aside. “Heal!” She fired magic into Amorpheus’ lifeless body. “Heal! I ordered you not to die!” Beam after beam she fired into the body. “How dare you disobey your Queen! I will kill you!” Chrysalis sobbed as tears streamed from her eyes. “I’ll eviscerate you!” she fired again. “I’ll destroy you!” she fired again.

Chrysalis, in dark comedic routine, continued the death threats against the corpse. She stopped firing after several more shots.

“Mother! He’s dead," said Echo with tears in her own eyes.

“Look at what you made me do!!!” Chrysalis shrieked in rage.

The mental and physical pressure caused the other changeling officers to withdraw.

She fired a beam at Echo.

Echo formed a shield that countered it.

“So you leeched off some power yourself? Clever!” Chrysalis smirked. “However it is still no match for mine!” Chrysalis increased the pressure.

Echo’s shield began to falter.

“Den hold me close!” cried Echo.

Den complied, grabbing the Changeling for dear life.

In a spark and blink they were gone.

Den and Echo were upon a cliff. Echo fell down sobbing.

“He was my father… all along. How could I not have seen it? He suffered so much to protect me.”

Wordlessly Den wrapped Echo in his hooves.

For a long time Echo continued to sob quietly into Den’s mane as their shadows moved with the sun’s motion.

“He was there from the beginning, and I took him for granted! I used him like I would use a target! I never told him…”

“No, I’m sure he knew at the end," said Den.

Echo rose up resolutely. A windy gust swept the cliff where they stood. “Den, be my Captain!”

“I thought you didn’t want that?” said Den.

“You will not be a captain of the Changeling Soldier Caste or your Royal Guard, you will be my Captain. I will fight for peace between the two," said Echo.

Den smiled and bowed. “I am yours my lady. What’s the plan?” said Den.

“With that much magic, mother has enough to invade Equestria…. no... more than that. She’s got to have a bigger and better plan than just a conventional assault," said Echo.

“How much magic did you absorb? You teleported us to I don’t know where. I heard that takes epic magic,” asked Den.

“You and I were near the epicenter, I absorbed quite a bit. I feel as if I have lightning running through my body. It’s so much energy to concentrate, when I use magic my horn feels like a backed up spigot. I teleported us so far, I don’t even know where. Who knows what Chrysalis is capable of?”

In a massive auditorium Griffins grumbled. Certainly no common folk, each of these Griffins wore the vestments of nobility, rich colored capes adorned with sigils of many great houses.

“This war is too costly; we’ve lost five War Wings already! What is King Hawkmor thinking?” asked a grey feathered Griffin.

“We should seek peace with Equestrians," said female noble.

“Nonsense! Now is time for total war! Send more ships! Send the whole fleet!” said a small Griffin who seemed to compensate for his size by sheer volume of voice.

“Idiot, what will we have to secure the frontier with if we send out all our War Wings?!” said an older wizened male Griffin.

“Prince Reagle was our best General, now he’s been exiled to the White Wastes.”

“I heard rumor Prince Reagle has shifted to fight for the Equestrians. Was King Hawkmor fever high when he banished the prince?” said a female griffin with a battle scar upon her cheek.

“Don’t joke of the King’s health," said a worried meek male Griffin.

In the center of the auditorium black-feathered Griffins entered from behind the red and gold curtain. “King Hawkmor has taken ill. In his stead and vested with his authority we hereby present to you your Queen Regent Grimfeathers.” declared a shadowy Griffin reading from a scroll.

“Queen Regent?” was the whisper that carried through the auditorium.

A female black-feathered Griffin walked to the podium.

“It’s that witch,” whispered a Griffin cuffing his claws over his beak.

“Things have gone crazy since she and her house stepped into the picture.”

Chrysalis, disguised as Grimfeathers, spoke, her voice imposing and terrifying. “The sorcerers of science have failed us. Now it is time to place our trust in true sorcery! The house Grimfeathers has monopolized Griffin magic for too long…. it is time that this gift be spread to all the houses and wings of the Griffin Kingdoms!”

“Finally!” chuckled a Griffin noble hungrily.

“Hail the Queen Regent!” said a noble with battle armor.

A Griffin noble shouted. “Stop this you fools! This is Loki’s trickery! There is no Griffin magic! This crow lies! Prince Reagle was right!”

There were murmurs of agreement amongst some of the nobles. Chrysalis fired a beam off that killed the obstinate Griffin where he stood. The thick armor of the knight was no defense and lay smoldering. Fear spread amongst the nobles.

“Hail the Queen Regent, she has proven Griffin magic, if I ever did see it!” a fat fearful noble began clapping his claws nervously.

More clapping ensued.

A gray Griffin donned in dark armor smiled greedily. “Such power, House Ironclaw eagerly supports the Queen Regent! Grant us mages and magic!”

“House Bloodtalon supports the Queen Regent! Give us power!”

Chrysalis smiled. “There shall be enough magic and mages for everyone. A glorious age for your people awaits! All that I ask for is your cooperation…. and your complete obedience.” Emerald eyes burned that erased all opposition.

“All hail the Queen!”

A small Griffin War Balloon sails into the sky. The crew moved about listlessly working from routine. Their eyes twinkled bright emerald green.

“I’m still shocked how easily you controlled them." said Den rubbing his mane.

A cute black Griffin with green eyes rubbed herself against Den’s neck. “Mind control is greater magic, usually mass mind control is out of the question. However I have enough to spare,” Echo chirped.

Den looked at a Griffin bump into another painfully. “It won’t hurt them, will it?”

“Nope, I’ll dispel them once we’re done.”

“We’re not headed to Equestria, are we?” asked Den.

“No, I must visit upon the old hive. I will enter the chamber of the First Ones and take the Ascendency Rite. To combat mother I must learn true sorcery, spells of the ancients," said Echo, raising a talon.

“I’m with you," said Den.

“It is also said that therein is the spell that will grant my people’s dream. Amorpheus… my father would have wanted me to go there. When I was a nymph he told me the secret dream of our people. I don’t think he dared to believe it himself however he still told it to me true. I will set into shape his dream of a dream," said Echo.

The small War Balloon sailed onwards towards the horizon of doubt. The setting sun cast a long shadow.

Chapter 13 Ascendency

View Online

Den and Echo disembarked their ship. They walked through a dark valley that narrowed slowly. Steep rock walls had the smooth texture of being carved by magic. A giant stone gate blocked their path.

“Echo, why was the old hive abandoned?” asked Den.

“Wait, I sense something approaching," said Echo.

A platoon of changelings landed in front of them. Their ebony armor gleamed in the morning light. They snarled, revealing their fangs.

“How did they follow us here?” asked Echo.

“They’re not going to hurt you.” Den stood in front of Echo and readied his lance.

A changeling commander directed his troops out front. “Kill Thorax’s murderer, capture the Princess! Beam teams fire!”

Several squads of changelings shot lines of magic at them. Echo generated a shield.

“Damn, they’re converging all their beams on single spot.” Echo strained to maintain the shield.

“Surrender!” cried the changeling commander.

“Echo, fire where my wing tips are pointing.” Den knelt in front of Echo and motioned with his wings.

“Smart.” chimed Echo.

“You roll left, I’ll roll right," said Den.

The shield exploded in green sparks. Echo rolled left and fired into the canyon walls. The falling debris created a wall of rubble tumbling down. The changeling commander ran forward and was separated from his troops. He grimaced but charged at Den.

“Vengeance!” cried the commander.

“Husk stop this! We’ve all lost people!” cried Echo holding the changeling in a telekinetic sheath.

Husk squirmed. “Larvi,” replied Husk.

“Husk, did my mother order you to track me down?” asked Echo.

“Larvi?! Why did you betray our Queen for this wretched Pegasus?” said Husk.

“Den is my Captain sworn to me. I betrayed the Queen but I did not betray our people. How many of our own did my mother kill when she activated the conduit at Anavrin Prison?” said Larvi.

“Still… I… Huh?” said Husk confused.

“Substantiation. I seek it," said Echo softly.

Husk stopped struggling. He noticed his own soldiers having flown over the debris and were preparing a charge.

“Soldiers, stand down!” Husk shouted.

Changelings landed softly on the ground with their weapons still cautiously raised.

“Princess Larvi, explain.”

“I will take the Ascendency Rite and attain the secrets from the First Ones," said Echo.

“That is a foal’s errand. It is impossible. The trials are death. Several Queens have lived out their reigns without ever daring it," said Husk.

“I will and I will return," said Echo.

“If you do… Princess Larvi, your old unit and those of us who served Amorpheus may support your bid. Our Queen has become different… a day ago she killed Coxa for expressing doubt. Also my wife was worker caste…she was sacrificed in the Anavrin," said Husk his head lowered.

“Coxa…and your wife... I’m so sorry for you," said Echo, sadly hugging Husk.

The Changeling’s eyes opened wide. “Princess Larvi?”

“Thank them, could you tell them I will return? When the time is right, have my supporters transform to Royal Guards with black armor so that I might know them.”

Past the gate and through a long tunnel Echo and Den entered the common chamber of the hive. The underground cavern was vast. The hive’s layout was foreign to Den. The alien architecture twisted and turned in unnatural patterns. Little honeycomb shapes formed living quarters that were open to the public. From the ceiling dripped water that collected in pools. A friendlier warmer green glow emanated from the honeycombs. Den looked closer to see that the cells were smeared with bioluminescent paste.

“You were born here?” asked Den.

“Yup.” Echo nodded.

“Your homes have no doors. I can’t imagine a society that open. Don’t you worry about theft?” said Den, looking at the multi-storied honeycombs.

“Everything belongs to everyone else. We raise our children as a community. I can’t imagine stealing from your brother or sister," said Echo shrugged.

“Ha, Blueberry stole the desert from my lunch boxes all the time.” Den smiled.

“Ohh, I played with the others near there when I was a nymph," said Echo pointing to some honeycomb huts.

“You’re still a nymph in way. A nymphomaniac.” Den nibbled on Echo’s ears.

Echo squealed. “Tempting lover, but we could lie in bed for eternity. Let’s do that later," said Echo, smirking.

Echo strolled through the maze with ease. She cast a small ball of light with her magic. Den stared at some paths that lead forever into the shadows. From the darkness a low growl and snarl made Den jump. The sound continued reverberating past them.

“There are monster in the deep. Time was we fought them for territory. My ancestors were worn to shadows of their former glory in those long wars.” Echo shivered.

Den walked closer with Echo.

Continuing onwards deeper into the abyss, they entered a hall with many columns.

“These archways look Unicorn. The columns are classical Pegasi. The stonework seems to be Earth Pony," said Den.

“The First Ones were said to have been all three races once. I’m not sure, they could have even have been Alicorns," said Echo.

At the end of the hall, a grand door stood before them. Echo opened the door with her magic.

“Here is the Chambers of Trials.” Echo took a deep breathe.

“Shall we?” said Den.

Den and Echo entered. The door instantly snapped shut behind them and sealed itself with green fire. Echo pawed at with her hooves. She to summon magic but her horn fizzled out.

“My magic doesn’t work here! We can’t teleport out," said Echo.

“Maybe it wants us to go forward," said Den.

“It?” asked Echo.

“I don’t know, maybe your ancestors," said Den.

Lines of light illuminated the ceiling and directed their path. They passed the first chamber into the second. Again the doors sealed behind them. Den looked at sandy floor littered with bones. In the middle of the room was a single small stone coffin that had a hinged open lid. A skeleton lay inside.

“This is obviously a quicksand trap," said Den.

“Why the open coffin in the middle of the room?” asked Echo.

They flew above the sand and past the coffin and to the second door. Pressing a hoof on the next door, the trap was sprung. Metal spikes jutted out of the side walls. The walls slowly closed in.

“Okay, this is out of a Daring Do novel. Some sicko must have been a fan of villains.” Den chuckled nervously.

“I didn’t read that one. How’d Daring escape?” asked Echo.

“A hole that collapsed in the ceiling. It was a cheap deus ex machina. I think one of the writers got lazy.” Den planted his hoof on his face.

“Den, I don’t think we’re meant to escape.” Echo pointed at the coffin shaped outline in the spikes.

“Inside the coffin, that’s the only safe place. How ironic," said Den.

“There’s barely room for one," said Echo grimly.

“…There must be another way.” Den looked frantically around the room. Den then removed the corpse from the coffin. “Echo, get in while I find a way," said Den.

“No," said Echo sternly.

“We don’t have time to argue!” shouted Den.

“Two pairs of eyes are better than one," said Echo looking around. “Maybe there’s a tap pattern.” Echo put her hooves on the door trying to tap out a pattern.

The crawling advance of the spiked walls continued. The room was two thirds of its original size. There were punctured skulls attached to some of the spikes.

“Magic?” questioned Den.

Echo face soured as her horn fizzled impotently. “Still nothing.”

“Can’t you transform into a mouse?” questioned Den.

“Transformation takes magic. Even with magic on that’s impossible, there’s conservation of mass," said Echo.

“Maybe under the sand! I’ll check this end," said Den, feeling his hooves through the particles.

“There’s nothing but bones," said Echo, feeling through the sand.

The room was now half its size.

“Echo get in the coffin," said Den desperately.

“No!” said Echo crossing her hooves.

“Don’t make me force you, you stupid changeling,” Den growled. Den pounced.

Echo flew back. “No!” cried Echo.

Den shouted jumping after her. Den pushed Echo onto the sandy ground. He pinned her down pressing his forelegs on her wings. “You can’t overpower me without your magic!”

“No! You bastard!” cried Echo struggling angrily.

Den spoke softly. “Live for me will you?”

“Respect my wish, Den," said Echo softly and sweetly. “I would like to die with you. Be it when time takes us or right now.”

Den looked at the spikes, now but hooves away. “This will hurt.”

“It would hurt more living without you," said Echo her eyes streaming.

The tip of the spikes entered Den’s shoulders. He screamed in pain. “I love you, Echo!!!”

“I love you, Den!!!” cried Echo.

Blood oozed from his sides. However the spikes advanced no further. The walls retreated slowly and the spikes pulled out of Den’s shoulders. The spikes retracted back into the walls.

“How?” asked Den.

The doors in front opened with a flash of green fire.

“It was test!” said Echo.

“They cut it close didn’t they," said Den feeling his bleeding shoulders. The wound was only an eyelash deep.

“I guess the builders didn’t expect you Mr. Wide Shoulders," said Echo licking some of the blood from Den. Echo helped Den apply bandages from his saddle bag.

Den inspected the coffin lid. There were hoof scratches inside. “The selfish partner is suffocated.”

“A fascinating mechanism," said Echo.

“Not so fascinating," said Den feeling his shoulders. “What death trap is next?”

The next room they entered was painted by many murals. Dark pony shaped forms fought against creatures of ever increasing ugliness and horror. The paintings showed may fallen ponies outlined by red. Most striking was the monsters depicted. Instead of the minimalistic style of the ponies they were drawn to realism. One particular monster caught Den’s eyes. It was monster that was almost a mouth with legs and long sharp horns that were shown goring ponies to death. It seemed cartoonish but the serious manner in which it was drawn made all the more terrifying.

“Your ancestors lived fighting monsters?” asked Den.

“And died," said Echo gesturing to some bones in the ground. The chamber was littered with skeletons and weapons.

Den felt a tingle run down his spine. “Something tells me we should be prepared," said Den picking up a spear and affixing it to his saddle.

“Right," said Echo doing the same.

The lines of light in ceiling suddenly flickered off.

“Stay calm," said Den.

“Okay," said Echo meekly.

There was a scream.

“Echo!?” cried Den.

The lights popped back on. Den turned beside him to see the mouth monster. Rows of jagged shining fanged teeth were revealed when it opened its maw.

Den chuckled. “Very, funny. I know you’re a changeling!” Den was nearly killed when the creature lunged at him with its horns.

“Wait, Echo can’t change in here,” Den gasped.

The mouth monster attacked again. This time Den dodged the attack. He countered sidestepping it and lunging. The creature jumped back avoiding his spear. The creature charged again. Den flew backwards. He rolled avoiding another of the creature’s horn attacks. Den hit a skeleton. He noticed that a rib bone was broken. Den jumped back from another attack he looked at another skeleton with two broken ribs.

“Stop!” cried Den at the creature. “Echo?” he questioned looking at the monster.

Den dodged several more attacks. The creature was on the other side of the room, it seem to be readying another charge.

Den dropped his weapon and sat calmly.

The creature continued charging however stopped with its horn a hair away from Den’s eye.

The lines of light flickered off back on. Echo was holding a spear against Den.

“Argh, how did we get tricked here?” said Echo tossing the spear angrily.

“These monsters would have been very real to your ancestors, their first instincts would have been to attack," said Den. Den pointed to skeleton that had neat puncture holes in it. “I noticed something was up when there weren’t chew marks on the bones. The mouth monster would have turned these bones to powder.”

“I’m sorry I attacked you. Since you weren’t a changeling I thought there was no way it could have been you," said Echo.

“I thought it couldn’t be you because you can’t perform magic here," said Den.

“I asked whether it was you though why didn’t you respond?” said Echo.

“Huh? I asked you the same question," said Den.

“Sound muffling charm. That’s why we couldn’t hear each other.” Echo nodded.

“We would have figured it sooner, if I didn’t strike back," said Den.

“I’m glad you figured it out. Let’s continue. There are three tests according to lore. The final one is said to be impossible," said Echo.

The final chamber had no bones in it. It was as big as the entrance hallway. There were massive columns like before but decorated by writings. Den and Echo walked through.

“Changelings are incapable of feeling love from one another then why then are all your ancestor’s tests designed around testing devotion?” asked Den.

“Maybe love doesn’t have to be an energy source. You ponies have no sensation of it, do you?” said Echo.

“Unicorns maybe but for me I don’t feel like energy. I do feel that I love you but I couldn’t use that to blast someone," said Den.

Echo’s horn sparked. “Hey the magic is back on!”

They stood at the final door.

Echo blasted at the door again to no affect. “How is this possible!? I’m sure I have enough power.”

“Well when did your mother take this test?” asked Den.

“It was before my time. Some Queens don’t even take it," said Echo. “Time!” Echo jumped up and down. “Time!” she smiled hugging Den.

“I’m missing something aren’t I?” said Den.

Echo turned towards a wall. She felt the etchings upon it. “The times of each Changeling Queens Reigns are meticulously recorded for posterity. I can go back to when my mother took this test. These here are my mother’s markings.”

“What? Time travel, you can’t be serious?! That’s Celestia tier magic! Plus it’s told that going back changes nothing. It’s also a onetime shot," said Den.

“I agree there’s fatalism in fate. However I don’t want to change the past; I want to learn from it.”

Den cocked an eyebrow. “Can you do that spell?”

Echo nodded. “I researched it once in the Starswirl wing, when I was posing as librarian at the Canterlot Royal Archives.”

“Wait a moment you posed as a librarian?!” asked Den, his face blinking in realization.

“Of course I got a job the library. Information is power. How else I did you think I planned the entire Canterlot Invasion?” smiled Echo.

“Hold up, which librarian were you?” asked Den.

“You bought me lunch twice in a day. I was Quill Heart.” giggled Echo.

“I was a total mess sleeping in that library for a month. Argh I must have done a hundred embarrassing things. How come you never told me about that?” asked Den, flushed with embarrassment.

“You never asked, silly.” Echo grinned. Echo snapped back to the door. “Hold me Den, we’re going back. Also be careful, we can’t go back and kill our past selves but we can be killed in the past.”

Den gulped.

Chrysalis paced urgently through the hall, by her side was changeling with a fedora. The walls shook as if under attack.

Echo and Den watched the scene from behind one of the many pillars.

“Why is Master Amorpheus here?” asked Echo whispering with a tear in her eye. “Father," said Echo reaching out.

Den pulled her back. “He’s not your father yet, you haven’t been born.”

Chrysalis spoke to Amorpheus. “Amorpheus, I am unsure.” her voice was gentle there was no rasping.

“I believe in you my love, my Princess, my Queen," said Amorpheus

“The revelation my mother gave unto me as she died…” said Chrysalis with her eyes inundated with tears.

Amorpheus placed a hoof on her mouth. “That was for you alone. You should not have told me. However I will be glad to share this burden," said Amorpheus.

“We’ve tried battering rams, magical bolts, and even prayer. Nothing opens it. My mother said nothing of how to pass the trials and of the impassable door. She was not strong enough to open it. It has been for so generations," said Chrysalis with desperation in her eyes. Chrysalis threw herself at the door despondently hitting it.

“Our people need a true Queen chosen by the Ascendency Rite. The army is devastated, the enemy encroaches, never was a need so great. My love, if we cannot open this door then the hive is doomed," said Amorpheus.

The foundations of the hive shook as some unknown bombardment resumed.

Amorpheus kissed Chrysalis on the mouth. He pulled back. “I know of no Changeling more suited, passionate, and strong," said Amorpheus.

“Should this chamber of the First Ones be the chamber of the lasts ones…should I fail still… what would you think of me?” asked Chrysalis.

“My thoughts and feelings will be the same," said Amorpheus hugging Chrysalis.

Chrysalis looked into the blue eyes of her confidant. “Amorpheus, I love you.”

Amorpheus nuzzled her. “Chrysalis, I love you too.”

The two embraced in front of the door. Magical fire coursed through the lines of the door forming a heart. An unseen magical mechanism pulled the open.

“How is this possible?” asked Amorpheus.

Chrysalis shouted angrily. “Now it opens?! What is going on?! What is with the design of this damned door?!”

Before they could see what was behind the door, Den and Echo were blinked back to the present.

“Whoa, that was crazy," said Den.

“I saw dad. I wish I could have said something…” said Echo sniffling.

Den hugged Echo. “It’s alright.” Den wondered for a moment. “What sort of enemy though threatened your hive in the past?”

“I’m not sure. Being the longest lived only they would know," said Echo.

Den looked at the door in front them. “Let’s do it.”

Den and Echo moved to in front of the door inside the circle pattern on the floor. They hugged each other closely.

“I love you.” they said to one another.

A circle of green fire wreathed them then travelled in lines towards the door. The door opened.

“Shall we go in?” asked Den.

“Wait!” Echo jumped to wall etchings and she fired her horn. She wrote ‘Echo + Den’ and circled it in a heart before writing the date.

Echo skipped back next to Den. “Now let’s go!” Echo smiled.

“Eight War Wings!?” said Twilight stammering.

The council room was filled with gasps. A Royal Guard drinking coffee didn’t even spit out his drink, rather he let it flow out of his open mouth.

The pony sized purple dragon nodded. “Guard tower twenty again," said Spike.

Several Royal Guards set eight red pieces on the map of Equestria.

“They’re aiming for Canterlot," said Shining Armor.

“They’ll have to go through Foal’s Valley," said Twilight.

“Captain Blueberry Frost, a report on the defensive upgrades?” Luna turned to a blue mare.

The blue mare bowed and spoke. “The cannonry emplacements we have ordered should be set by now. They will set the valley afire.” Captain Blueberry then spoke with resolute strength. “The Royal Guard will defend it to the last pony.”

“We need all weather teams to create thunderstorms and force them into the bottle neck again," said Twilight.

“They’ve already been sent," said Captain Rainbow Dash.

Reagle raised a claw. “Hey, we can’t count of them funneling all eight ships through. They’re not that stupid.”

Blueberry poked the Griffin with her hoof. “You know better than anyone about those War Wings. Hey how now would you attack Equestria with eight of dem ships?”

Reagle rubbed his beak. “I would try a trident formation. Two would attack the pass as a distraction. Three would flank from the north and three from the south.” Reagle moved the pieces on the map.

“We’ll keep the Thunderhead in reserve. We can move it to counter them," said Twilight.

“Shining Armor and I can project our shield again to protect the ship," said Cadance.

“They could also simply halve their forces, the bull’s horns. Four War Wings would easily overwhelm the great ship now that surprise is not on our side," said Zaza.

“Aye, they could do that but bunching them up after seeing magic pierce two of them wouldn’t be smart," said Reagle.

“Indeed so we will have expect to contend with their trident. Covering one, it leaves still a flank exposed," said Luna.

“Me and my friends can cover that. The elements of harmony can stop them," said Twilight.

“Twily, without support infantry or flyers you’ll be exposed!” said Shining Armor.

Reagle sighed. “We will support them. Our last airship, still flies," said Reagle.

“Thank you, your help has been invaluable," said Luna.

Echo and Den entered into the final chamber. A large tome lay on a stone table in the center. The book was easily the size of a pony.

Echo remarked. “The Tome of Ages. I’ve only read of people reading this book.” Echo magically flicked through the pages. They were blank.

“You gotta be kidding me," said Den.

“Hold on.” Echo sent some energy into the book. “Argh!” she disconnected immediately when it began pulling on its own. “Greedy little thing.” Echo commented.

Words and pictures began appearing on the page they were on. They seem to be more illusion than printed text.

Den moved a wing to flick to the next page.

“Stop!” cried Echo. “Something lives in the book. It hungers.”

Den recoiled back. “It’s all you then.”

Echo began magically flicking the pages. They looked through many pages that were wonderfully illustrated and some that were illustrated wonders.

“There’s that leech life spell," said Echo shuddering. A page showed a pictogram of dying ponies being sapped by a single changeling.

“This spell book, it’s full of forbidden and forgotten magics," said Den looking past Echo’s shoulders at some grisly artistic renditions.

“Whole cities, even civilizations were destroyed discovering some of them," said Echo.

“Anything about curing the curse?” asked Den.

“My mother and Amorpheus, they took these trials together. If that is not love, what is? Why then can our people gain no sustenance from each other?” Echo said. Echo flipped to near the last pages. “Here it is. Substantiation.”

They flipped the chapter cover to find nothing. There were the paper frills where a page had been before being ripped out.

The banners of the Equestrian Royal Guards wavered defiantly in the coming wind. Peering through telescopes they saw the eight dark ships spewing black smoke behind them.

“How they split their formations will determine ours," said Luna.

Suddenly the entire fleet of War Wings veered.

“What are they doing?!” Twilight shouted.

“They’re heading north, all of them," said Reagle.

“Damn it they tricked us by going the long way about!” shouted Blue.

The War Wings opened their bomb bays and began dropping explosives into what appeared to empty fields. Streaks of fire were left in the ground.

“What are they doing bombing empty land?” asked Blue.

“They’re bombing our rail lines to the Crystal Empire," said Shining Armor.

“They’re after the Heart!” cried Cadance.

Chapter 14 Sun Swallower

View Online

A huge city is covered in a dome of fire. The crystals poking out of the shield shatter as War Wings dropped their pay loads. Barrels and barrels of explosives are pushed off from the bomb bays by Griffin soldiers.

“My Queen their shield holds," said a Changeling officer.

Chrysalis stared outside of the window as the shield began flickering. “It will not be for long. Then I will have the most powerful magical conduit ever. Continue the bombardment.” Chrysalis laughed.

“Yes, My Queen.” saluted the Changeling officer.

“How goes the search for my traitorous daughter?” asked Chrysalis.

“Unsuccessful, we have scoured the skies and lands to no avail," said the Changeling officer.

“Commander Husk, is it not? You served my daughter didn’t you?”

“…Yes, I served Princess Larvi," said Husk.

“She is a Princess no longer! In between the larvae and the fly, where do your loyalties lie?!” said Chrysalis her horn glowing white hot.

“All Hail Queen Chrysalis!” said Husk saluting.

“You may go," said Chrysalis.

“Yes my monarch," said Husk.

Chrysalis waved a hoof as Husk was almost completely out. “-And Husk, continuing the bombing a little longer even after their shield is down," said Chrysalis.

In the final chamber Den and Echo flicked through the pages over and over again searching for a footnote or any allusion to the final page.

“There’s no hint of what was to come. There’s build up but no payoff.” Den groaned.

“I want a damn answer!” said Echo angrily at the tome. “I’m going to risk feeding it a little more. Slap me unconscious if I can’t stop," said Echo.

Den nodded.

Echo sent another jolt of energy into the book. Echo’s eyes became white as she continued pouring energy.

Den shook Echo. She did not respond. “I’m sorry.” Finally fearfully Den slapped Echo.

Echo disconnected and she blinked. “Thanks, Den. Argh that book is greedy.”

Light beamed from the tome. The light took form. An image appeared before them of a grand Alicorn with flowing purple mane and a deep ebony coat. The majesty of her vision was splendiferous and awe inspiring. Even with no wind her mane seemed to flow regardless. The grandness of the vision was a rival to that of Luna or even that of Celestia.

“Greetings child, I am Chitania Queen of the First Ones.” spoke a regal voice.

“Whoa that’s an awesome illusion," said Den.

“She looks beautiful. I don’t believe this how the First One looked.” Echo pouted.

“True child, this is my image before corruption took," said Chitania (Ki-tan-nia).

Echo and Den jumped back.

“It’s talking to us!” said Den turning his head to Echo.

Chitania arched her head towards Den. “Who are you? Why is a pony in this hallowed chamber?” asked Chitania.

Echo stood tall matching the Queen’s gaze. “I am Echo to be Ascendant Queen of the Changeling People; he is my Captain Dented Armor. I love him-” said Echo.

“- And I love her," said Den.

The Alicorn spoke. “My child, this is unprecedented," said Chitania.

“Anyway, we haven’t time. Tell us of substantiation!” Echo shouted.

Chitania looked pain. “The scope of my understanding is limited to knowledge to this tome.”

“We’re talking to a glossary then?” said Den chuckling.

“It is so and it is no. I am an essence of the First One," said Chitania.

“What about the missing page?” said Echo infuriated.

“I read once the pirate captains used to jealously guard the last pieces of treasure maps so that their crews wouldn’t mutiny," said Den.

“You think my mother stole that page?” Echo nodded in realization. “You’re right she has the map to our people’s destiny… It’s the ultimate control.”

“How do you intend to have her give up the coordinates?” asked Den.

“I’ve got a plan. I’m going to ask.” Echo beamed deviously. “Not too kindly either.”

“Let’s get going then," said Den.

“Prithee wait a moment," said Chitania. “In my time there was only darkness and despair. However hope of a tomorrow can overcome any sorrow. You must fight pure despair.”

Echo nodded dismissively. “Yeah, I did that once. It was my coronation," said Echo scoffing as she turned tail.

Den and Echo left the chamber and the door shut closed to the tome. The fair form of the alicorn dissipated in infernal blue flames, red eyes shone in scarce light. There was an aphotic body with many holes that bore into its shadowy figure. Her mane was tattered and colored blood crimson. The vision of the true Chitania gave a cruel chuckle.

They defy destiny and design

What fools traipse before me

Pain to this heart of mine

Why then do I covet and envy?

Emptiness, I know love is hollow

The poets profess it to be blind

Nothingness, life is but a shadow

How strong then bonds that bind?

Corruption, nothing is left pure

It hungers and swallows forth the day

Darkness, all is devoured in despair

All are but actors in this cruel play!

The thirst, that is to live

I am awaken, eyes wide

I shall not forget or forgive

All shall drown in a red tide!

Incorporeal became flesh as the being of pure darkness stepped forward setting hoof to stone. The room glowed blue for a moment then the flame was extinguished.

The council chamber was again deathly silent.

“Why did we not foresee this?” said Twilight.

Blueberry placed her hooves on Reagle’s shoulders and shook the Griffin. “Why didn’t you tell us that those War Wings had that range?!”

Reagle stepped back and straightened his collar. “Our War Wings don’t have that sort of range. Unless they plan to resupply here they haven’t the fuel reserves to return to the Griffin Isles.”

Zaza spoke. “They must mean for an occupation then. They have enough fuel to strike Canterlot.”

“The Royal Guard can at least hold them off for a while," said Shining Armor.

“The plains between the Crystal Empire and Canterlot are indefensible. The Royal Guard can’t fight in the open. I will not permit you to sacrifice yourself, Shining Armor or Blueberry Frost," said Luna.

Luna’s voice boomed. “Evacuate the Capital! Have our ships help citizens escape. I have a plan!” Her demeanor was confident as to conceal a second of doubt that flashed upon her face.

A nation sinks into gray. Ponies lowered their heads bowing in abject terror. The shine from even the crystals is eradicated. A heart shaped metal box is brought before Chrysalis. Even encased in metal love’s light shone through the container.

“My Queen, we bring you the Crystal Heart. It was defended to the last pony. We lost squads," said Husk somberly.

“I no longer care for cost.” Queen Chrysalis laughed as she placed a hoof on the box. “All going according to plan! Muster the War Wings.”

Another changeling officer approached. This officer was different in that she had no wings. “My monarch, the worker caste is overtaxed. Could we be permitted to feed and replenish our reserves?”

“Worker worm, how dare you interrupt my moment of triumph?” said Chrysalis.

“I was promoted to soldier caste. I was only speaking out of concern for my former caste mates. They are near collapse constantly stoking the fires of the War Wing engines. The brainwashed Griffins are unable to do the fine work themselves. The worker caste has had to bear the entire burden," said the officer.

“They are workers it is your function. Who promoted you anyway?” growled Chrysalis.

“Commander Amorpheus promoted me," said the officer.

“…” Chrysalis grew silent for a moment. Chrysalis then recovered. “Back to you duties or I’ll demote you.”

The flightless officer grumbled under her breath. “The labor shortage would be so… if you hadn’t killed off so many of us.”

“What was that?!” cried Chrysalis her horn glowing threateningly.

Husk stepped forward. “Arista, is obviously exhausted! Her squad helped capture the heart.”

Chrysalis scowled. “We invade Canterlot!”

Luna stood by a grand bed in Celestia’s room. She looked at the serene body of her sleeping sister.

“Why can I not enter your dreams sister? Why don’t you speak to me? Hast thou forsaken me?” Luna soaked the bedding with her tears.

“Luna, I miss her too.” Twilight walked into the room. The lavender mare surprised Luna by hugging her.

“Twilight Sparkle, it was you who freed me from the darkness. Words cannot express my gratitude. It is with greatest sorrow that I must now undo what you have done.”

“Princess Luna? What are you saying?!” asked Twilight.

“A shard of corruption remains still in my heart. With it comes the promise the power, a power enough to save Equestria entire. This is my plan," said Luna.

“Luna, you can’t!” Twilight gasped.

There was almost imperceptible deceit in her words. “There is no cause for concern with the elements you can free me again. It will only temporary.”

Twilight caught the tone. “Luna there’s something you’re not telling me!”

Luna spoke kindly. “Twilight, I ask you do not inquire any further.”

“Using the Elements on you a second time will kill you, won’t it?” asked Twilight.

“It may," said Luna.

“Please don’t do it Luna," said voices behind the chamber door.

“Hark! Who goes there!” shouted Luna.

The crowd of ponies filed into the room one by one joining in the embrace. Pink pony leapt and squeezed them. She was followed by a white Unicorn, an orange Earth Pony, a cyan Pegasus, and a yellow Pegasus. Even a purple dragon joined the group. The dark blue alicorn at first was too overcome to return the hug.

“Thank you all. From banishing the darkness within me to your support today all of you have shown me such love and support," said Luna crying as she returned the affectionate gesture.

“Luna, you will always have us here for you," said Twilight.

At the Canterlot port, ponies scrambled onto passenger galleys of balloons. Blueberry directed her guards to help.

“Back away commoners!” a white Unicorn stallion with golden yellow hair was pushing ponies away from the boarding ramp his balloon yacht.

Blueberry galloped over. “What’s going on here?!”

“You there, Royal Guard defend me against this rowdy rabble! They’re trying to board my balloon!” the white stallion pointed a hoof.

Blueberry huffed in disbelief.

“What are you waiting for guard?! I am Prince Blueblood!” said the stallion.

“A Prince huh?! The Princesses are out there defending the lives of everyone and you’re worried about your own miserable hide!? How would you like to join the defense as cannon ammunition?!” Blueberry stomped toward the cowardly prince.

Blueblood cringed. “I suppose there’s room in my yacht for some commoners.” Blueblood chuckled nervously. “Come one come all," said Blueblood stepping out of the way.

A mare with foals passed him along with others as they boarded the fancy yacht. A yellow Pegasus with a fiery mane helped by another teal Pegasus greeted Blueberry.

“Good luck," said Spitfire.

“Hey, how have you two been?” asked Blueberry.

Spitfire turned to her side to show Blueberry the splint on her wing. “Still broken, but we’ve been helping evacuated the other injured from the hospitals. I heard you made Captain.”

“Yeah, my promotion was sudden and I’m not the best pony for the job but with will I can at least match skill," said Blueberry.

Soarin walked with a cast on his right foreleg. “Right on. Fight on!”

“You can do it kid," said Spitfire.

Blueberry sighed and turned about walking down the pier.

Reagle and Zaza were orchestrating their Zebra Zerkers to help load equipment onboard their striped airship. Cannon balls and powder kegs were hauled in by the Zebra workers. The pace of the work was organized yet frantic.

“What are you two doing? We need help with the evacuation," said Blue.

“We're going to get some extra support," said Reagle.

“It looks like you’re running away.” Blue pouted.

“Perish the thought, Blue one," said Zaza.

“If my father can be brought to his senses, there may be hope," said Reagle.

“Couldn’t you help out a little before you go? We really need help," said Blue tearfully. Blue pouted and made her eyes like a small foal.

Reagle and Zaza looked at each other quizzically.

Reagle sighed. “That is a rather convincing argument.”

“Alright Blue one we can delay our departure to help," said Zaza.

“Yay!” shouted Blue hugging the Griffin and Zebra.

A Griffin War Balloon sailed as its propellers spun to a blur. Hot steam radiated from the engine block.

“Can’t this thing go any faster?” asked Den.

“I think we’d explode," said Echo. Echo looked off worriedly.

“Hey, how you holding up? I mean you have to face your mother…” asked Den.

“Den, I’m scared I might fail or that I might succeed if that makes any sense," said Echo.

“I’ll be with you even in the aftermath. You can do this. Chrysalis needs to be stopped," said Den.

“I know but she’s been a part of my life for so long. As a nymph, she was that distant goal. I wanted be like her and be liked by her. Now I hate her for killing my father but she’s still my mother. She was harsh because the world demanded it," said Echo.

“Sounds like abuse to me. Tough love can be too tough. She didn’t seem rational when I met her," said Den.

Echo blinked. “You’re right, it’s probably the magic. Changelings have been known to become high from too much. The lives of thousands courses through her. That power is corrupting and corrosive.”

“Echo, I don’t want you risking your life betting she’ll stop," said Den.

“I know, I can’t afford it," said Echo.

Den looked at Echo nervously. “How much power do you have?” Den bit his lip. “How many lives reside within you?” asked Den.

“…Hundreds maybe more. It’s just energy, I can’t measure it. It’s like I’ve swallowed a small sun in me," said Echo.

Den looked perturbed. “You won’t go mad will you?”

“I might-” Echo gave her usual hollow laugh. “-if I wasn’t already madly in love with you.”

Den nuzzled her neck.

A small cottage sat the rolling grass plains. A smaller garden was being diligently tended by a cream-colored Earth Pony. The farmer grumbled chewing a piece of straw as he watered his leafy lettuce with a hose. Suddenly the sun eclipsed. The farmer looked up, his maw open out fell the straw. The hum of War Wing engines were like hornets buzzing.

Cadance and her captain watched from a castle tower as the War Wing fleet cruised towards them.

“They’re attacking now? The evacuation isn’t complete!” said Shining Armor.

“My Shining Armor, are you ready?” asked the Alicorn of love.

“Yes.” Shining nodded. “Wait, are they deploying ground troops?!” He gasped as he saw several War Wings open their mouth ramps.

“Oh dear," said Cadance alarmed.

The three of the War Wings dipped down to the ground. The mouth ramps of the War Wings opened and from which marched an army. Brainwashed Griffins and Zebra soldiers stared blankly into distance. Within their ranks were seeded changelings officers in ebony armor and common changeling soldiers.

“They won’t get past the shield," said Shining Armor.

“Now!” said Cadance as the five other War Wings flew above them.

Cadance and Shining Armor touched their horns casting a pink bubble around the capital. The bubble shook as bombs were dropped by the overhead airships.

Chrysalis stood in front of the ground army. She smiled as she saw the shield. Above in the mountains was Canterlot gleaming like a jewel bathed in fire.

Commander Husk flew beside his Queen. “My monarch, our units are in formation.”

The wingless changeling commander, Arista ran forward to Chrysalis’s side. “Why sacrifice our infantry to the shield when we’re bombing them?!”

“Because I want them to feel protected when I turn their defenses into a trap.” Chrysalis laughed.

“Yes my monarch," said Arista.

Chrysalis turned swiftly to her army. “Look yonder at love’s light! The denizens of that city have long looked down upon us! They banished our ancestors to starve and die! Now is the time to reclaim what is our by right! Attack!”

Chrysalis’s speech was met by cheers and then confused looks.

“How shall we advance up a sheer mountain side with ground troops?” Husk asked Arista.

“Shall we throw ourselves at the front gate?” said Arista.

Chrysalis turned her back to officers with her horn glowing white hot. Her officers cringed. The field filled with light. All was left was scorch grass where an army had once occupied.

Shining Armor and Cadance touched horns casting their magic protection. Twilight ran up the tower steps.

“Twily, what are you doing here?” asked Shining.

“We can maintain this shield if each of us takes turns," said Twilight.

“What about the plan?” asked Cadance.

“There’ll be time," said Twilight.

A Pegasus guard flew to their tower. “We’re under attack! Enemy forces inside the shield! They’ve teleported an army in!”

“Go Twilight! We can handle this!” said Shining.

Royal Guards in makeshift barricades fought desperately in the streets. Griffin Hawkers dive bombed the barricades releasing their grenades. The Royal Guards leapt back from their posts as improvised walls made of carts and displays stands were blown to pieces. Zebra Zerkers charged them under magical covering firing of Changeling soldiers. The process was repeated many times as the Royal Guards units were methodically destroyed.

All the while Chrysalis casually strolled through the streets at the vanguard of crumbling opposition. Her green energy shield deflected any stray or intentional shots at her. Several Changelings had cornered a couple of Royal Guards caught behind enemy lines. The Guards dropped their lances.

“No prisoners!” cried Chrysalis.

“They have surrendered!” said Arista.

“No prisoners. All of their kind must pay!” said Chrysalis.

“Our army will need to feed afterwards!” said Husk.

“Very well," said Chrysalis.

Luna stood at the castle steps. A Pegasus crashed near her. The guard had a spear that punctured his armor. Blood leaked through the gaps of his armor staining the marble. Luna caught the guard by her hooves before he rolled down the steps.

“Princess… we cannot hold them…” said the Guard dying.

“I’m sorry soldier. Your sacrifice will not be forgotten," said Luna with tears in her eyes.

Blueberry stood at the opened cargo bay of the Thunderhead airship. Ponies walked briskly down the boarding ramp. They crowd towards waiting trains. From the grass field outside they had a clear view of their home now afire circled by airships in a vulture formation. The bomb blasts against the shield crackled through the air.

“That’s the last of the civilians.” a Royal Guard officer saluted to Blueberry.

“Good, blow the rail lines and detonate the central train hub. I’m worried that they’ll still pursue," said Blue.

“Don’t they have limited fuel reserves?” said the officer.

Blue rubbed her mane. “I reckon though if they split that fuel between them they could…that’ll take time still and they won’t be able to attack at full force.”

“What shall we do now?” said the officer.

“Now we join the fight!” shouted Blue.

“Captain, we have orders to retreat," said the officer.

“Whatever, your mah soldiers. I order that we help!” Blue smiled.

Reagle flew towards them. He carried Zaza with him. They set down next to Blue.

“We’ve been thinking blue one," said Zaza.

“Huh?” asked Blue.

“I recognize those War Wings emblems; they’re usually on patrol duty defending the Griffin Capital. With our airship and the Thunderhead, we could take back Aviania!” said Reagle.

“Attack the Griffin Capital, what fer?” asked Blue.

“If Reagle’s father, Lord Hawkmor can be brought to his senses. We can return with more support if not the help of the whole Griffin Kingdoms," said Zaza.

“Your Thunderhead can make the difference," said Reagle.

“No way! We’re not abandoning everyone!” said Blue.

“To throw yourselves against eight War Wings is suicide. I would know, blue one. It is better to bide so that we can later turn the tide," said Zaza placing a hoof on Blue’s shoulders.

“Canterlot, isn’t lost yet," said Blue.

“Is it not?” asked Zaza.

“Captain?” asked a Royal Guard officer.

“That’s right I’m a Captain," said Blue. She spoke softly to herself. “I’m not the thinking sort… What would Den do? He would-”

The battle inside the shield bubble is brought to the castle steps. The gates are seared apart by a white beam. Chrysalis gleefully hopped through to the courtyard. Royal Guard lancers galloped at her. They were thrown back with a single magical spark. The minimal effort did not even cause Chrysalis to break her stride.

Chrysalis laughed. “Where is that Celestia?! I want beat her into the dirt again. This time it won’t even be a contest. Who can possibly challenge me now?!”

“Your opponent will be me, vile villain!” Luna stepped forward clad in sleek black armor.

“The younger sister? I have already defeated the eldest!” Chrysalis chuckled.

“At times tis necessary to combat one evil with another, I shall sacrifice myself to madness once more.” Luna coat became pitch black and she grew to match Chrysalis’s height.

Luna charged and locked horns with Chrysalis.

“There was a reason you planned the First Canterlot Invasion during the day, it was because you feared this potential in me! In my time I was the sword to her shield! Sister Celestia could only banish me!” Luna leapt back and fired an energy beam at Chrysalis.

Chrysalis countered with a beam of her own. The two energies collided. She groaned under the strain. “We are evenly matched! Join me instead moon princess! What was your rebellion but for want and envy?! You can have eternal night!”

Luna smiled. “The hubris!” exclaimed Luna. “Know your place, monster. I will not align myself with a lesser. My power comes forth from the infinite cosmos! Yours is stolen from the lives of others; prepare thyself to face the power that challenged the sun!!”

Chrysalis dodged. Luna’s beam singed her shoulder. “Ha, can you do this?!” Chrysalis body burned with green flames. Emerging from the fire came an ebony dragon that was a dozen times the size of a pony. The creature roared sending a jet of blue flame towards Luna.

“Thou art a fool! I’ve slain greater drakes!” Luna threw up her shield letting the flames wash across it. Luna noticed the she was not the target.

The fire was swept across the courtyard hitting fountains. Steam engulfed them. Luna barely ducked avoiding a beam fired at her through the fog. She turned to counter however the vision of Celestia stopped her for a second.

Chrysalis, in Celestia’s form, fired again. “Ha sentimental?”

The beam cut off strands of her lustrous mane before Luna could dodge it. “Enough of your tricks!” Luna flared up her magic as her body glowed.

The pressure of the wind blowing back dispersed the fog. Chrysalis assumed her true form again. Luna had reverted back to her smaller blue form.

“My tricks? So you did not become Nightmare Moon after all. You were bluffing.” Chrysalis smirked.

“I still have strength enough to vanquish you!” said Luna panting.

“Foolish, without that power you’ll soon run dry.” Chrysalis chuckled.

“Not before I end you!” Luna’s eyes seethed with anger that ignored Chrysalis’s taunt.

She fired again. Once more beams collided. Luna smiled as she instead thinned the focus of her beam. Her concentrated line of energy and Chrysalis’s more dissolute line met their targets. The mutual trade of fire sent Luna flying back but Chrysalis was not left undamaged.

Chrysalis jumped back she felt her neck. A streak of blood almost reached her throat where Luna’s beam had cut. She concentrated her magic immediately sealing the wound. “A focused beam so fine? That is impossible without a gemstone!”

Luna smiled as she magically healed her burnt fur. “Maybe for you.”

“You’re content to sacrifice yourself to defeat me? Why?” asked Chrysalis still healing.

“The selfish cannot fathom so much the considerations of the selfless," said Luna breathed heavily as her magically sealed skin smoldered.

Chrysalis laughed. “Me selfish?! I have devoted my life to my subjects!”

“As have I! I will defend them against you to my last breath!” said Luna snarling.

“Subjects…it is time they pay their dues," said Chrysalis thoughtfully. “Defend your Queen!” Chrysalis projected her voice across the battlefield.

After slaying a Royal Guard several Changeling lancers charged at Luna. She was forced to form a shield to deflect their blows. Four more mind controlled Zebra Zerkers joined the fray jabbing at Luna’s protective bubble. Luna expanded her shield temporarily sending the changelings and Zebras flying backwards.

“For the Queen!” Squads of possessed Griffin Hawkers screeched dive bombing grenades at Luna.

As Luna’s shield rippled from the impacts, Chrysalis fired her beam. Luna was blasted backwards smashing into a wall. Luna tried to lift herself but her limbs fell limp.

“My army is greater!” said Chrysalis. “Single combat is overrated.” Chrysalis cackled above Luna.

“I agree completely!!! Twilight Sparkle, now!” Luna shouting.

From a castle tower a beam was fired. Chrysalis formed a shield and turned to the source of the beam. Six ponies were glowing and concentrating their magic from their jeweled accessories. Chrysalis cringed as she began sweating to maintain her barrier. The force pressed her into the stone courtyard floor. Even the rock and rubble around her was pushed away.

Above them the War Wings continued their relentless barrage of the shield. The sky burned as bomb after bomb was dropped. The barrier began ominously flickering. In glistening sparks the artificial ceiling finally gave. Bombs from the above War Wings slammed into the base of the tower. There were six distinctive screams as the tower collapsed.

“No!!!” said Luna.

“You’re finished!” Chrysalis laughed as she spun around dancing around in the ruined courtyard. “All mine! It’s all mine!”

Changeling and Griffin platoons soared over the skies of the Canterlot. Zebra troops, with Changeling handlers, mindlessly marched through the streets. Captured Royal Guards were bound and tossed into piles like looted plunder. War Wings swallowed the setting sun as their shadows darkened the city. As reflectors of the sun’s glory even the white alabaster walls lost their shine.

Chapter 15 Doubts

View Online

In the skies overcast of an occupied Canterlot, the sun and moon were both present. Neither was it day or night. The chaotic heavens, was mirrored by the streets below. The city was cratered like the moon itself from the bombing that had devastated it. Less than friendly fire from the War Wings above also had wounded many Changeling troops. Improvised field hospitals were set up. Chrysalis observed from her point of vantage atop a castle’s tower, the highest one left.

A changeling landed on the balcony. He saluted. “My Queen. Canterlot, the streets are barren! We’ve checked all the homes, basements even!” said Husk.

From behind another changeling bowed. It was the wingless officer Arista. “My Monarch, even their hospitals have vacated.”

Chrysalis yawned. “Did your scouts from Ponyville return? That town seems delicious.”

“They returned moments ago with news of nothing. It has been abandoned," said Husk grimly.

“We have only the captured guards to feed upon. Our occupation cannot be upheld if that is the case," said Arista.

Husk blinked fearfully. “They mean starve us. It was all a trap for long term victory.”

“We must immediately launch the War Wings to conquer another city," said Arista.

“Our fuel reserves are low though," said Husk.

“We can divvy the amount and send at least half of our forces to forage," said Arista.

Chrysalis spat sternly. “No. The War Wings will guard the capital.”

Her officers looked at one another then to their queen.

“The workers, they haven’t been fed in days. Many are collapsing from exhaustion," said Arista.

“The army also starves. Many of ground troops were wounded when the Canterlot shield collapsed and the bombing continued. We need magic to heal them.” Husk stated flatly.

“Feed upon the Griffins and Zebra’s we’ve brought. Drink them dry if you must. Why else did we bring them?” Chrysalis scoffed.

Arista responded horrified. “We can’t just kill them!” She recovered and bowed. “I mean… my monarch that will reduce our combat readiness," said Arista.

“No more excuses! Nothing else matters! I am your Queen! Heed the orders of your Queen!” a jolt of lightning hit Arista sending the changeling flying back.

Aboard a single Griffin War Balloon sailing towards the horizon, Echo and Den spotted two other ships in the distance.

Den looked through a mounted telescope on the bow of the War Balloon. “Look Echo, it’s the Thunderhead!”

The massive cloud wreathed battleship began turning towards them.

“It’s opening gun ports. Where’s the signal light?” said Den nervously.

Echo smiled timidly as she stared at the small light and reflector. “I’m trying it right now.” She flicked the switch back and forth.

“Oh," said Den.

“A Griffin War Balloon?” asked Blue.

“It’s not responding to our signals," said Reagle.

“Good, it might be an enemy messenger. We need target practice!” said Blue.

Outside the window a streak zoomed towards them.

“A single flyer?” asked Zaza.

The single Pegasus blurred past the windows of the bridge.

“Den!” Blue whooped recognizing the blur. “He’s alive!”

Den and Echo joined Blue in the bridge. Echo wore her favorite gray coated mare disguise.

“You’re alive!” said Blue hopping to him. Her eyes were moistened with fresh tears.

“Blue!” said Den hugging the Earth Pony. Blue’s armor clinked against his. “You’re a Captain!”

“Yup!” smiled Blue. “… We thought you were dead. How did you—”

Echo waved a hoof. “Hi.”

“You?!” said Blue.

Den stepped forward in front of Echo. “Whoa, stop! She’s not the enemy. She saved my life and yours.”

“I know… I’m still angry," said Blue. “She’s still complicit.”

“Complicit, that’s a big word for you," said Echo.

“Shut yur trap, I’ve been studying! Give me a reason why I shouldn’t toss ya overboard!” said Blue.

“Hey Blue," said Den.

Blue spat. “You too! You’re on mah angry list. You had me worried sick!”

Zaza pointed a hoof at Echo. “You are that Unicorn pony that destroyed our War Wing in a single beam.”

“I’m not actually a pony," said Echo. Bathed in magical green flames Echo revealed herself.

“You’re the changeling from Anavrin!” said Reagle.

Reagle drew a sword he had hidden under his wings. Zaza had readied her spear and affixed it onto her war saddle mount.

“A natural reaction, I would know.” Den jumped in front of Echo again. “Let me explain.”

Echo smiled to Den. “Lets us explain.”

The conclusion of their explanation left Blue, Reagle, and Zaza with curious looks. Blue’s mouth was open.

“So you’re all caught up. Echo is the ascendant Queen of the Changelings. We’re going challenge the Chrysalis for her title," said Den.

“This is much to swallow," said Zaza.

“How goes the war?” asked Echo.

Blue blurted out. “They went the roundabout way taking the Crystal Empire first. They have the Crystal Heart. We had to evacuate. Celestia’s still in a coma. Canterlot has fallen. We have no idea if they captured or killed the other three Princesses.”

It was Den this time whose mouth was left agape.

“Blue, I don’t think they would kill the princesses. As dangerous as it was when I was with the original invasion we had explicit orders for live captures," said Echo.

Den now stammered. “That’s still a checkmate.”

“Not so mate. We can bring the hammer of the Griffin Kingdoms if we can bring my father back," said Reagle.

“The Griffin Capital Aviania will be lightly defended.” smiled Zaza.

“That will be highly dangerous. Mother… I mean Chrysalis would have most likely gone with mass mind control of the Griffin nobles," said Echo.

“Can’t you dispel them?” asked Reagle.

“Usually it’s easier to knock out or kill the caster," said Echo. “Anyway, I don’t think we have the time to marshal an army. I have inkling of Chrysalis’s plan. The first invasion of Canterlot was complicated by strange orders. She explicitly ordered the Princess captured alive.”

“What does that tell us?” asked Blue.

“I don’t know but I feel if we give her time it will be too late. I saw in the Tome of Ages, any number of horrible spells she might use. I think she’s thought of worse. Anyway, I intend a coup. By a longstanding law, I can challenge Chrysalis for supremacy," said Echo.

“How will you get close to her, to do this?” asked Zaza.

“A small commando squad. Elite units. Echo can teleport us in. Two whole platoons if necessary," said Den.

“This is a bold plan," said Reagle. “But you will be lost without air support.”

“They won’t bomb their own troops. We’ll get in close," said Den.

“That’s how dem bastards took Canterlot," said Blue. “They didn’t care. They bombed and forced us to shield up while their troops attacked anyway.”

“The Queen won’t bomb herself," said Den.

“That close huh?” said Blue.

“Is it true that Chrysalis bombed her own soldiers just to get at the Princesses?” asked Echo.

Blue nodded.

“Mother’s madness has worsened. I fear still there might be a methodology to it," said Echo.

Changeling soldiers congregated in a bar converted into a field hospital. The backroom door was attended by several carefully selected guards that watched on nervously. Past the door two figures whispered amongst themselves.

The wingless former worker, Arista, spoke. “How many monarchs have promised us substantiation to our people? We workers and soldiers are always tools for their designs. Queen Chrysalis or Princess Larvi is there a difference?”

“Princess Larvi has passed the Ascendency Rite, I know it. She will challenge Chrysalis. She asked that I organize a number of us to support her bid.”

“It is treason to even speak of the exiled Princess. Meeting like this is dangerous. What sets her apart from her mother?” said Arista thinking.

“At Anavrin when Chrysalis was all too happy to let our people die, Larvi led the defensive efforts," said Husk spat bitterly.

“I recall that. But still Chrysalis is mighty.”

“With Master Amorpheus’ death, Chrysalis has gotten more unstable. When I look into her eyes, I feel as if she’d be willing to sacrifice us all.” Husk shivered.

“Do you Princess Larvi will succeed?”

“If Princess Larvi will not be the instrument of our revolution then perhaps she can be a symbol of it," said Husk.

“If we should throw in our support and she is crushed then so will we. I will speak to our comrades in worker caste. They have reservations," said Arista rising to her hooves.

“Do so. I must attend to the Queen for now. I have been summoned.” Husk sighed getting up.

Arista touched her hoof against the face of the other changeling. “I know your wife was among those sacrificed. To bear that, to be near the one responsible... let alone serve… I cannot imagine how you are outwardly so collected.”

Husk spoke calmly. “We changelings cannot feel each other, we curse this fact. Perhaps it is a blessing here, were Chrysalis to feel me she would know my rage that burns inside and our plans would be revealed. Still it pains me to maintain the mask superficially.”

“I know you cannot feel this but—” Arista kissed the Husk softly on his cheek. “I wish you luck.”

Den got a daffodil sandwich from the mess hall of the Thunderhead. He took slight bites.

Blue happily joined him setting her meal tray full of salad next to him. “I’m so glad you’re back. It’ll be like before all three of us!”

“Blue, I don’t think it’s going to be so simple," said Den smiling lightly.

Reagle and Zaza joined them. Reagle had a tin of sardines and everyone except Zaza recoiled from the smell slightly.

Echo squeezed next to Den. She had a pile of different foods on her tray. She devoured her food faster than Blue.

“Got the munchies?” asked Blue.

Echo laughed. “We could be going to die so I want to try at least everything.” She chewed happily the variety of greens on her plate.

“This plan hinges much on you. Come the day, what do plan to do with a whole changeling horde?” Reagle asked bluntly.

Echo gnawed on a lettuce leaf for a moment. “What do you plan to do with the Griffin Kingdoms? What about the Zebra Confederation?”

“Huh? Hey now, I asked first," said Reagle.

“She has a valid point, dear," said Zaza.

“If your peoples seek vengeance for the crimes of my mother, then you’ll have to deal with her," said Echo diplomatically.

“That won’t wash away all the bad blood," said Reagle.

“We will defend ourselves. Isn’t that right, Den?” said Echo turning towards the Pegasus.

Den gave her a confused look. “We?”

Echo said painfully. “Den, you’re my Captain… aren’t you?”

“Of course.” Den nuzzled her. “I swore to you a vow, the conditions, that I would be your Captain. I just didn’t know you meant to continue after the war.”

“I shall always fight for us.” she smiled.

“That’ll be interesting, me leading changelings. I can imagine all the kinds of awkward,” Den said, smiling.

Blue poked Den with a hoof. “I’d trust the Changelings more if you were their captain.”

“Fair is fair. We won’t strike back if you won’t," said Zaza.

“A non aggression pact then," said Reagle.

“That’s complicated. How about friendship?” suggested Blue.

Husk entered the former throne room of Celestia. He bowed before his Queen. “You summoned me, mistress?”

Chrysalis sulked in her seat. In her hooves was a familiar fedora. She sighed. “Yes, I would like you to assume a form.”

Husk stiffened his body. He noticed that the door behind him was magically closed. “Of course, I am Infiltrator Class. For what mission? Shall I be a Griffin, pony, or—”

“Could you assume the form of a fellow changeling?” asked Chrysalis.

Husk squirmed in place. He feigned ignorance. “Changeling to changeling, what purpose will that serve?”

Chrysalis climbed down the steps from the throne so that she was face to face with Husk. Her voice was laced with longing. “Please.”

He gulped. “Which one?”

“You know who," said Chrysalis timidly. She fondled a fedora she brought forth.

“My queen, you really did care for him?” asked Husk surprised.

“I have imagined my victory many times. In those daydreams, never was he absent from my side. Now having achieved it, he is nowhere to be found," said Chrysalis. “Transform into him so that I might dream a moment longer.”

“Is that an order or request?” asked Husk.

“A request," said Chrysalis softly.

Husk’s anger surprised himself and his monarch. “I will not dishonor his memory to offer you cheap comfort! He is dead. You killed him. Just as you killed my wi—” Husk stopped himself quickly biting into his hoof.

“I…” Chrysalis retreated slightly.

Husk swiftly bowed. “Forgive my impudence. Master Amorpheus was dear to me also.”

“You are right. He is dead.” Chrysalis’s voice became the fearsome fire once more.

“Your daughter Princess Larvi still lives.” Husk suggested.

“My daughter is beyond salvation. She is with the enemy," said Chrysalis. “Be gone leave me. Mention her again and I will kill you.”

Husk nodded and darted out of the throne room.

Chrysalis looked at the stained glass murals. She stopped by the one that depicted her as a demonic being. The picture showed her being vanquished by a blinding beam of light. She chuckled.

“Daughter, will you be the one to slay me?” Chrysalis blasted the glass apart. The colored shards shattered. “No, I have come too far and sacrificed too much! I’d be a foal to stop now… so close. It’s mine all mine!” In spite of her storming words, a tear made a small watery trail down her face.

Evening set. Their airship cruised slowly through the skies. In their room snuggled in the embrace warm embrace of the sleeping Changeling, Den was still unable to sleep. He softly unwrapped himself from Echo’s hooves. She shivered slightly in the cold of his absence. Gently he pulled their blanket over her. He quietly opened the door and walked out into the hallway for fresh air.

It was long time ago since he was without Echo. He wanted freedom to his own thoughts. The heavens were still in disorder. However there was still a dim that signaled evening.

The Zebra and Griffin couple greeted him. Zaza spoke. “We thought actually to speak to you in private. It is convenient that you are awake.”

Den spoke guardedly. “What have to you to say that you can’t say in front of Echo?”

“So, this changeling gal of yours, can we trust her?” asked Reagle.

“Truly, do we replace only the banner or will there be a change in the wind’s direction?” asked Zaza.

“I love her. I trust her," said Den simply.

“Would you trust her to withdraw the Changeling horde? They’ve already conquered Canterlot, it’d be too tempting just to put the whole thing under new management," said Reagle.

“I couldn’t stop her anyhow. So I must trust.” Den laughed lightly to hide his hesitation.

A powder bag was tossed next to Den’s hooves by Zaza.

She spoke softly but with weight. “I brewed another batch. It is dispel powder, made to be extra potent. It is mixed with Manticore poison and feathers of a fallen Phoenix. I shall not be able to create another potion like it. This will kill the magic of even an Alicorn.”

Den pushed the powder bag away. “I can’t carry that. I couldn’t kill her at Anavrin.”

“Can’t or won’t?” asked Reagle.

“I won’t. It won’t come to that. We’ve been through too much," said Den sternly.

“The fate of nations now, only you are close enough to use this. You are the dent in her armor. A spear might puncture there," said Zaza grimly.

Den’s defense faltered. “No, I love her. She loves me. I…”

“Aye, but it may equalize the balance of power. You cannot tell me that this won’t be useful in bind," said Reagle. “Chin up chap. I’m sure you’re right. It’s just a security.”

“Alright.” Den grabbed the pouch and hid it under his right wing.

Twilight blinked her open her eyes. She looked to her right, there was her brother and Cadence. To her left was Luna her head lowered. All them were restrained in solidified green resin up to their heads. She tried to channel magic through her horn however she noticed that too had been bound by the hardened green sap.

“It is time you awoke. I owe you for foiling my plans last time.” smiled Chrysalis looking at Twilight light dead on. Chrysalis sent a small current of energy into Twilight.

Twilight cried out. “Ahhhh!” Agony surged through her body as she convulsed.

“What is going on?!” Shining Armor stirred as did Cadence. He saw Twilight writhe in pain. “Leave my sister alone! Demon!”

Cadence shouted also. “It was I who stopped you last time! Hurt me!”

“No take me instead!” pleaded Shining Armor.

“Look at all of you beg for torture. You’ll just have wait your turn.” Chrysalis stopped the flow of energy from her horn. Twilight was left panting and sobbing.

Luna’s head popped up as she awoke. “Thou art a cruel beast! There is naught but a hole where your heart ought be!”

Chrysalis smacked Luna with her hoof leaving a red mark against her cheek. Luna scowled.

“Why are you doing this?! You’ve won!” said Cadence.

“Don’t patronize me! You ponies have a plan! Where is Celestia?!” asked Chrysalis.

“Plan?” questioned Shining Armor.

“Yes, and so do I," said Chrysalis. “I require Celestia’s presence. Now tell me where she is or I’ll begin true torture.” Chrysalis added with a slimy smile. “I sense weakness in the purple one.”

“You need Princess Celestia?” Twilight recovered slightly from her pain. Twilight looked about the room. It was peculiar that she and everyone ringed Chrysalis. She screamed when she noticed the lines cut into the ground. “Don’t tell her anything!!!”

Chrysalis followed Twilight’s darting pupils. “So you know, this robs the fun.” She chuckled.

“Know what?!” asked Cadence.

“This room is a magical array!” cried Twilight.

Chapter 16 Forging Through Fear

View Online

In the miasma mists of memory there was a door in the blackness. He approached it and pushing it open. As he stepped through the boundary he noticed his fur change color to a turquois. Yet again he was a rider to a dream body. The room was a dedicated archive. Shelves stood lined with scrolls. He saw a weak glow from a horn atop his head.

The Unicorn he was channeling moved deliberately in between the shelf aisles. Several choice scrolls flew from the shelves onto a large table in the center of the room. From saddlebags floated blank scrolls. Green magic seared through line work the original scrolls as maps and diagrams as they were copied.

“Quill Heart, what are you doing? Those scrolls are never to be copied.”

She turned to confront the interloper. “I was just copying them for reference. I just love architecture. I’m sorry, Shatter Shield.”

Shatter Shield was a powerfully built brown coated Earth Pony, his Royal Guard Armor had to be specially made to fit his frame. He looked on Quill Heart with gentle eyes. “I could be banished for letting you in here. No more. Okay?”

“Indeed.” she replied gathering up the scrolls and sending them back.

Shatter Shield sighed. “You crazy mare, I’m not sure why you’re so interested in obscure Unicorn history and architecture.”

“History is important and I like planning the layout to buildings.”

“Maybe, you’ll get your chance with architecture.” Shatter Shield nuzzled her neck gently.

Quill Heart ignored his affectionate gesture as she continued sorting out scrolls. “How do you mean?”

“I made lieutenant! Soon I’ll have enough bits for us to afford a new home, our home. You can plan it out and everything. Isn’t that great?”

Quill Heart nodded quickly as she shuffled scrolls back into their proper shelves.

“Maybe you can use one of these desi—” Shatter Shield unfurled one of the scrolls Quill Heart set on the table.

She turned quickly and rolled the scroll back up. “That won’t be necessary, I’ve already planned everything out. Our house will be upon a hill.”

Shatter Shield stared at her sternly. “I saw what was written there. Those are time tables of Royal Guard Patrol routes.”

Quill Heart chewed her words. “I wanted to find out… when you were on break—” She kissed him gently. “—so I could surprise you one of your shifts. I know how wary you can get all alone.”

His eyes narrowed. “Those guard rotations for the castle battlements. I work in the archives.”

“I—” She was left without a prepared excuse.

He looked about the room as if searching one for her. Shatter Shield placed a hoof on her mouth. “Whatever you have yourself involved in I’m sure we can resolve, together. Who put you up to this?”

“Nopony.”

“I have jeopardized my career for you!”

She shrunk back. “I’m sorry,” came Quill Heart’s calm tone.

He smiled nervously. “Okay, whatever no harm done. You were just curious. Nothing wrong with that, let’s get out of here.” He turned around motioning her to the door.

She smiled her best. “Sure.” Quill Heart silently shoved the scrolls into her saddle bag.

“I can’t let you keep those. Those have military applications. Leave them.”

She nearly jumped upwards. “Military appli-what?”

“I’m not stupid. I’ve put it all together, your hobby is really an excuse. I don’t know what you’re planning but leave it… for us.”

“I’m sorry.” Her horn glowed malevolent green.

The Guard felt the pressure against his neck. However his neck was thick. He turned towards her, walking despite her magic.

Beads of sweat ran down her face. “Go down!” She redoubled her efforts.

The stallion strained to resist her. “I lov—” He kept approaching.

She panicked. Sweeping a leg of his she caused him to lose his footing. With another magical jolt she smashed his head against the table. The guard’s body twitched for a moment before becoming limp and lifeless. She casually strolled away through the open door.

A gray stallion stood just outside. He tilted up his fedora. Amorpheus spoke. “Have you the documents?”

“We have the maps of the Canterlot patrol routes and all.”

“No loose ends?”

“What of the guard?”

“Dealt with: unfortunate fall that broke his neck. Less fortunate he fell for me.” She chuckled cruelly.

Den awoke, he sat up in their bed. He felt his cold sweat against his fur.

“I felt your presence during my sleep.” Echo stirred groggily. “I think there’s a bleed through as we become closer… you didn’t do anything in your dreams did you? Like open a door or any token gesture of entry?”

“Echo, who was Shatter Shield?”

“You entered my memories? Again?” Echo jumping up.

“There’s nothing pleasant in those is there?” He stood up as well and repeated. “Who was Shatter Shield?”

Echo looked away. “A Guard I was ordered to seduce. It was mission.”

“Am I a mission?”

“How could you ask that?”

“Shatter Shield, I heard his dying words. He was ready to accept you.”

“You’re different!”

“Did you tell Shatter Shield the same?”

“… I was different.”

“How about Constance the Lancer?”

Den was met with a smack on his face as Echo lunged. “I chose Constance, I loved him. Shatter Shield was picked for me.”

“Truth now, how many did you destroy before me?” asked Den.

Echo became still. “Would you like to know the names and exact methods?”

Den recoiled at her quick reply.

“I should like nothing coming in between us. Ask me, I shall tell you.”

“Just give the number.”

“Four.”

“Does that include… Constance?”

“Yes. I murdered each of them. There were good and bad ones.”

Den scratched his mane. “Your history doesn’t set a good pattern… am I to be your fifth?”

Echo folded her forelegs. “What do you think?”

“You were a soldier. I suppose you can’t be blamed for doing your duty.” said Den.

“I don’t need you to make excuses for me. I was both, a combat infiltrator. Shatter Shield may have been picked for me but in time I chose my targets. Never mind what they say, it got easier. I killed them.”

“Four lives you took. I do not believe that I am so special... how am different?” said Den.

“We’re having this conversation for one.” said Echo. “Den… do you fear me?”

Den bit his lip. “Honestly… a little.”

“I see.” Echo lowered her head.

“I didn’t mean it like that.” He reached for her only for her to slip from his grasp.

“How else could you mean that?”

“I don’t know.”

“Even you…” Echo bolted out of the room.

“Wait!”

Den darted after Echo through the airship hallways. In a green flash he lost her in crowd of ponies getting to their positions.

“Figures, changeling.” said Den, defeated.

A hoof poked him. “Hey, I need to talk to ya!”

“In a moment.” said Den still panning the crowd for any tell tale sign of Echo.

“Now, hold here! You’re going to listen, you just can’t come back from the dead and ignore me.” said Blue.

“I’m sorry, Blue. I’ve been distracted.”

“C’mere, there’s something you got to see.”

“Is that Princess Celestia?” said Den. “She’s so beautiful and serene.”

The alabaster white Princess lay upon a bed of fine silk as if slumbering.

“E-yup, she’s still in her coma.”

“What is she doing here? This is a warship heading to battle.”

“Well we were headed away before, you and Echo convinced us to go back.”

“The healers haven’t figured out how to bring her back?”

“She’s a living goddess, umm I reckon they haven’t a clue. Anyway you say Echo has the power of hundreds of live in her, right?”

“Yeah.”

“Have her use that power to bring Celestia back.”

“There might not be enough power for the plan then.”

“I don’t know. Celestia might be able to think of something better. She’s got like a millennia of info in her head. I remember when we were first told of the Griffin invasion she was calm when everyone was running like chickens without heads.”

“It’s a risk.”

“Whatever, ask her. See if she can do it.”

“We had sort of disagreement this morning.” Den frowned.

“Really? You two seem like two peas in a pod.” said Blue.

“Yeah well I told her honestly that I feared her. Her father’s dead, mother’s a maniac, I’m the only one she can confide in and I told her that. I couldn’t help it.” said Den.

“Argh, you’re always too honest.” said Blue. “Look, when your dad died—”

“Our dad. You’re family too Blue.” said Den.

“Thanks… but I tell ya I was afraid also. You seemed like you were going to follow dad down that cliff.”

“I was. I got to dad’s cliff. I thought of folding my wings and doing a little dive.”

“You what?! You jerk! Why are you alive then!?”

“Instead I met Echo that day.” He laughed. “We both had the same idea. I knew I had to save her, that sorta saved me. Seeing someone else try made me realize how foolish it was.”

“You idiot, go to her. Tell her what you told me.”

A convoy of three War Wings sped across the sky. In the center was a grander ship, painted red and gold. It was catamaran composed of two extended versions of its escorts. Its lengthier deck appropriately accommodated more port guns and swivel turrets. The bridge of the ship was a large luxurious glass greenhouse like structure.

“She’ll be surprised to see me I know it.” The giant brown Griffin chirped gleefully.

A black feathered Griffin spoke to the king. “King Hawkmor, Grimfeathers has promised to conquer Equestria for the Griffin Kingdoms. Just now we were notified of Canterlot’s fall. There is no need for you to personally—”

“Grimfeathers works too hard. I feel better now. I’m giving her a break.” said King Hawkmor.

“A break sire?” asked the advisor/handler.

“Rest and relaxation, everyone deserves some.”

“If our War Wings venture any further we will lack the fuel reserves to return to the Griffin Isles. It shall be the point of no return.”

“Hohoho, then we’ll just have conquer us a fuel depot.” King Hawkmor heartily laughed.

“Do they have those?” his own advisor questioned. The black feather griffin rubbed his forehead. “Wait!”

King Hawkmor had already hopped off his throne and down the carpetway.

The advisor sighed. He muttered only he could hear. “Forgive me my Queen, only you can control this buffoon.”

Hawkmor laughed heartily. “Come follow me to the observation deck. I want to see our newest province, Equestria!”

King Hawkmor’s brow beaten handler chased after the Griffin.

Reagle laid out his various weapons on the ground against a white a sheet. There was a sword, several daggers, bombs, and even a nail file. The Griffin inspected each article for defects. He replaced an old grenade fuse when he saw the other one was moldy.

“How do you fly with so many things?” Zaza leaned against the doorway.

“I stretch my wings and flap.” said Reagle, smirking.

“Feeling cheeky? You’re usually like that when you’re nervous.”

“I could bite my leg off. Yeah, I’m bloody nervous.”

“Why? Should you not be relieved? You do not have to confront your father.”

“Exactly that is what’s got my feathers ruffled. I want to beat some sense in that old feather bag.”

“I heard tales of King Hawkmor’s skill and will in the past. Is your father someone that you could defeat?”

Reagle took his sword and twirled it in his claws. “You forget, you’re talking to The Whirlwind Prince.”

Zaza chuckled. “I haven’t forgotten, but isn’t your father called The Tornado? One metaphor trumps the other.”

“Nicknames or no, Griffins are blowhards. I’m not taking his reputation at face value.”

Echo’s ghostly mane was carried by the wind. She sensed the presence of another.

“How did you find me?”

“You and I both seem to like high places. I have a confession that day we met on cliff. I was actually thinking along the same lines as you.”

“Den? What are you saying?”

“My dad had died… I was thinking of jumping. It must be destiny we met that day. We saved each other.”

“Destiny is death, I don’t believe it. That cliff is popular suicide spot. In fact I went there because of newspaper article… maybe it was your dad.”

“I—”

A Royal Guard rushed to observation deck interrupting them. “Enemy ships spotted!”

The Thunderhead cruised along its cloud cover hiding the smaller Zebra airship in its wake. Through the windows they spotted three War Wings on a parallel course to their own.

Den and Echo joined everyone on the bridge.

“That’s my father! The Valkyrie is the Griffin Kingdoms’ flagship.” said Reagle.

“They haven’t spotted us.” said Zaza.

“Good, we get first strike.” said Blue.

“Blue one it may not be wise to attack such a ship.” said Zaza.

“Hold on, let’s surrender.” said Echo.

“Wha?! Say whaaa?!” said Blue.

“We’ll take their ship. They need only dock with us.” said Echo.

“What have you in mind?” asked Reagle. “If you intend to storm their ship, then we’re outmatched numerically.”

Echo gave Den a sidelong glance. “I shall show them true fear.”

Squads of Griffin Hawkers awaited on the boarding bridge with weapons at the ready. Behind them were dark feathered disguised Changeling handlers. The door opened and they rushed ahead. They were stopped by a single Changeling.

“Prepare for fear… and despair!” Echo laughed eerily. Her horn glowed with malign magic.

The soldiers screamed grasping their heads and dropping their weapons. Some of the Griffin soldiers even vomited. They crumpled into fetal positions, shaking from overwhelmed senses.

“What did you do to them?” asked Zaza.

“A trick I learned from my father. I’m breaking them.” said Echo. “Now I will remake them.”

“Remake?” asked Den.

“A trick I learned from my mother.” Echo nodded then turned back towards the boarding bridge full of incapacitated soldiers. Her horn glowed again. She forced the soldiers heads towards her. Echo’s eyes gleamed. “I am your mother, your queen, and your goddess! Serve me unto death! Take this ship in my name!”

A Changeling disguised as a Griffin officer arose first. “All hail Queen Larvi!” The Changeling officer ran backwards waving his saber. With green glints in their eyes the other changeling soldiers and officers followed.

“You brain washy-ed all of dem.” said Blue.

Echo rolled her eyes. “I’m sure we have time for well-reasoned argument and speech.”

Reagle stormed past as if possessed but he held purpose in his eyes. He had armed himself with a cross bow and another on his back. Zaza followed closely with her spear. A couple of changeling soldiers attacked from a side hallway. Reagle reared upwards and drew both crossbows firing them. He dropped the weapons as they were unloaded.

“To your left.” said Zaza smacking down a controlled Griffin.

Changelings and possessed Griffins charged from around a corner.

“Got it.” Reagle drew grenades and lit them with his claw flints. He chucked the bombs hitting the head of a charging Changeling. The soldier tripped and blocked the rest of his squad. The explosions rocked the ship slightly. The backdraft blew Reagle’s red cloak back.

“Do all the work why don’t ya?” said Blue, impressed.

“This way to the Command Bridge.” said Reagle ushering them with his sword.

Echo telekinetically threw a guard against a wall knocking him out. Den smacked down a guard with the length of his lance. They entered the massive chamber with Reagle and Zaza taking the vanguard.

Black-feathered Griffins guarded King Hawkmor. The giant Griffin leaned against his equally impressive claymore sword gripped with both claws.

Echo stepped beside Reagle. “I am Princess Larvi Ascendant Queen of the Changelings, submit unto me or be destroyed.”

The black-feather Griffins transformed in her presence.

A leader amongst them, stepped forward. “What is going on? We have been told of no such thing.”

“Hold your positions.” said King Hawkmor to the changelings.

“Dispel my father! He still thinks those changelings are his personal guard.” said Reagle.

“Sure.” said Echo firing beam at King Hawkmor. The magical spark hit harmlessly against the giant brown Griffin. “He’s not under mind control.” Echo gasped.

“How can that be?!” cried Reagle.

“So this is how it ends? My own son turns against me.” said King Hawkmor.

Reagle turned towards his father. “I thought Grimfeathers brainwashed you! What of your headaches?”

“I have consulted doctors. I have brain tumescence. The affliction is inoperable. This was before even Grimfeathers.” said King Hawkmor.

“Dad? I didn’t know,” said Reagle.

“In a decade’s time, I will be dead. However it seems you were too impatient to wait for even that!”

“Father! Odin damn it! You think this is about your crown!? You old idiot, I could have kill you a dozen times over.”

King Hawkmor lifted up his massive claymore sword. “Oh ho? Is that so? I will yield and give you my crown if you defeat me in a duel. However with reward comes risk. I will not hold back.”

“Alright, I accept but you can keep the head ornament.”

The large Griffin moved with far greater speed than his ponderous size would suggest. Skidding across the metal floor his sword sparked as he swung for a low blow. Reagle jumped over avoiding the blade’s edge however King Hawkmor spun completely around to deliver a second strike. Parrying the blow Reagle was sent flying to the side almost smacking against the glass window of the bridge.

King Hawkmor laughed. “Perhaps your earlier words were but bold boasts.”

Reagle rebounded off the glass. “Speed and strength you have however you are lacking.” Flying with his sword, he lunged.

The grander Griffin was forced to block. Reagle rolled sideways avoiding a downward swing that cut the metal floor. Reagle retaliated jumping in close before Hawkmor could counter. He held a dagger to King Hawkmor’s throat.

“All of it has made you inflexible combined with your age, you are no match.” Reagle sheathed his sword and dagger.

“Lectured by my own son.” King Hawkmor chuckled as he clambered to his feet.

“You dishonor, mom!”

“Is it so wrong for me to be happy again? In my dying days you would deny me that?”

Reagle threw up his claws. “Yes, if it is with a harpy! Grimfeather’s cares nothing for you. She offered her tail to me. You have terrible taste in ladies.”

“I don’t believe you... The harpies are simply misunderstood.” said King Hawkmor.

Echo barged in. “Yes, but not my mom.”

“You’re Grimfeather’s daughter?” said King blinking. “Ah I do not recognize you without your disguise.”

“Yeah, Reagle’s right.” Echo said angrily. “My mom is a monster. Her true name is Chrysalis, she has brought nations to their knees. She has to be stopped.”

“Treasonous words!” one of the changeling soldiers lunged with a lance.

Den impaled the soldier with his own lance.

“Den?” said Echo.

Den smiled. “I got you.”

The male Changeling advisor of Hawkmor spoke. “I am 1st Lieutenant Mandible Soldier Caste, Princess Larvi there are orders to capture you.”

Echo turned towards Mandible. “Are you in any position to do that now?”

“No.”

“Submit then and serve me.”

Mandible smiled. “Make me your Captain, and I will.”

Echo rolled her eyes. “Vice Captain.”

“Hail Princess Larvi!” Mandible then looked around. “Who is to be my Captain?”

Den stepped forward. “That would be me.”

“A pony?!” said Mandible his face in shock.

The door to planning room of Thunderhead could barely accommodate the size of King Hawkmor. Now packed in the room where a series of changeling officers lead by the newly appointed Vice Captain Mandible. The motley assortment of allies ringed the planning table.

“Okay we have the Thunderhead and Valkyrie, a Zebra ship, and two War Wings. I’m likin’ our odds a lot more now.” Blue said jumping slightly.

Den shook his head. “That may be however our forces aren’t unified. Coordination between ships is going to be difficult.”

“A ground force would be harder. Unit cohesion will be a nightmare.” said Zaza.

“Unit cohesion you mean team work right?” asked Blue.

“Yes Blue one, team work is very important,” Zaza smiled.

“How about alike units, like Pegasi and Griffins? Can we blend them like a smoothie?”

“Our military doctrines are vastly different. Even amongst our air units. Griffin Hawkers are trained to rely upon bombing runs rather direct engagement like Pegasi troops.” remarked Reagle.

Echo scratched her head. “Chrysalis is sure to supplement her troops with brainwashed infantry, they’re less effective individually but with Changeling handlers they’ll act as one.”

“Military leaders can only hope to have that much control over their troops. That sort of unity and harmony is going to be hard to beat,” said Den.

Mandible sneered at Den then turned to Echo. “Princess Larvi, who says unity or harmony is all strength? That’s the Equestrian way of thinking.” said Mandible. “The larger enemy will be laggard in their response. Swift is the small squad, more maneuverable is the short spear.”

Echo looked surprised. “Those are his words. You were student a student of Master Amorpheus?”

Mandible nodded. “It was terrible thing, that Chrysalis killed such a great soldier.”

Reagle scratched his beak. “We can’t fight them relying on combined arms tactics, what shall we do?”

“The Changeling way, we divide and conquer.” said Echo.

Den was left with closing remarks of the meeting. “Alright everyone, we have our roles. Tomorrow, it is do or die. Make ready your forces.” said Den.

“Aye!” said the cry from the many members of coalition.

As everyone shuffled out of the war room, Den lifted a hoof to stop her from leaving. “Echo.”

She replied with a slight nod. “Den.”

“This Changeling named Echo, she is flawed but she loves me and I love her.”

Echo relaxed slightly.

“Different reason brought us each to that cliff, however we walked away together.”

She asked meekly with hope in her eyes. “Do you still fear me?”

“Yeah—”

Echo winced in pain. “Must you be so honest? Could you at least lie?”

“Hey! I’ll get over it. I’m stronger than that. We’re stronger.” Den whispered the next part while nibbling her ear. “It’s also a bit arousing.”

“Oohhh!” Echo blushed. “You’re learning to be naughty.”

“Well you rubbed off on me.” said Den.

“We’ve done plenty of rubbing together haven’t we?”

Den chuckled licking Echo’s ear.

She pulled away. “—After our victory. We should save our strength for the fight.”

“Right. I’ve been selfishly talking about just my feelings, how do you feel? I mean tomorrow, we assault Canterlot.”

“I’m afraid, how else do you think I feel? I have to do combat against my mother. She has defeated a Sun Goddess. She has a whole host of higher magics.”

“You can do this.”

“The same doubt, fills me with fear.”

“I’ll be there no matter what comes.”

Den pulled her close hugging her. As he shifted he felt the weight of the powder pouch in his saddlebag. It was the same dispel powder that could kill her.

Husk and Arista strolled through the Canter Castle hallways. Changeling soldiers standing guard left their posts and followed after them.

“We’re doing this now? Impatient aren’t we?” asked Arista turning to Husk. “I thought we were going to wait for Princess Larvi to start the revolution.”

“I have served Larvi in the past. She would be a good Queen.” Husk stopped for a moment. “However, enlightened dictatorship is still a dictatorship!”

Arista draped a green scarf around Husk’s neck. “Who will lead our people?”

Husk tied a similar green scarf around Arista. “No more Queens, no more monarchs! No longer shall we live in fear of tyrants.”

Arista raised a brow ridge skeptically. “If you’re planning to make us a republic, that requires a majority. So far we are only a third.”

Husk continued walking. “We do this now. We will win popular support afterwards.”

“Afterwards?”

He stated flatly. “The majority of our army is starving because of her orders.”

Arista smiled in realization. “They say an army marches on its stomach.”

Storming purposefully through the hallways, Arista and Husk collected more followers on the way. The blue eyed Changelings soldiers shifted the hue of their eyes to the green color of spring and revolution.

Chapter 17 The Whole Truth

View Online

Queen Chrysalis walked with her own squad of personal guards. At the end of the hallway was a white light that shone from the outside. She was intercepted a dozen steps from the balcony.

Husk and Arista stepped forward and blocked her at the corridor’s intersection. Other Changeling soldiers backed the two and emerged from side corridors and behind. Chrysalis’s guards were outnumbered by a dozen before they could even raise their spears. With spears to their necks, Chrysalis’s personal guards relinquished their own weapons.

“My Queen it is time we be informed as to your designs.” said Arista, glaring.

Chrysalis chuckled at the veiled threat. “You dare question me?”

Husk was more diplomatic and courteous. “No my Monarch, we are your most senior officers; we require knowledge of your plans in order to better serve you.”

Chrysalis moved a hoof. Husk, Arista, and their followers raised their spears swiftly but held nervously. “A multi prong attack on my shield, do you think you’ll get through? Your formation is a bit out of balance.” Chrysalis chuckled, pointing to a Changeling which was slightly out of place. The Changeling rebel in question gulped and then moved into proper place filling the gap.

Arista spoke boldly back. “We’re willing to make sacrifices.”

Husk looked at his Chrysalis pleadingly. “Let this happen with the least bit of suffering.”

Chrysalis smiled kindly, her usually intense stare was relaxed. “We have survived through sacrifice and suffering, but soon no more.”

Husk and Arista were disarmed by her marked shift in demeanor.

Arista was the first to regain composure. “We still don’t know your plans.”

Chrysalis spoke with soft words. “You will know. Every Changeling will.”

“Wait.” said Arista, stepping in front of Chrysalis.

Chrysalis looked out at the balcony. “They’re expecting a speech; do you intend to keep them waiting?”

Husk spoke sternly. “Alright, but afterwards you tell us your plans.”

“There will be no need. I will tell you now.”

Using her magic she gently nudged them aside, even placing a reassuring hoof on Husk’s shoulder. She walked past and through them to the balcony.

Throngs of Changeling soldiers and workers were arrayed in the courtyards below.

Chrysalis blasted her voice so that even the outer edges of the assembly could hear. “My brave children, our struggle is near its end! I know I have asked you to suffer. Your pain and hardship is our shared bond! I know some of you question my decision to seize Canterlot. Some even question our first invasion. You were looking for a city filled with food, yet I have you occupy a barren ruin. I tell you now we hold thrall the citizens of nation!”

There were questioning stares from the crowds.

“You are confused.” Chrysalis groaned and continued. “A lesson in geology, then. Equestria is a land rich in rare gemstones. Rocks are even farmed for them. This is because gemstones are manifested through the ambient magic in the land. The land’s ley lines converge here! Forgotten beneath Canterlot is the greatest deposit of magical gemstones in Equestria.”

There were more questioning stares from the crowds.

Chrysalis muttered under her breath. “Idiots.” She resumed projecting to the masses. “We are at the center the most massive magical array there has ever existed! Once activated we will harvest the energies of an entire nation, of an entire continent! We at the center will reap the benefits!”

Swarms of Changelings became wide eye in realization. There were scattered cheers that were growing.

“The dream of our fore-bearers will be realized. We will be whole! We will have substantiation! Follow me to this golden future! Serve me and we will never go hungry again!”

The cheering had become roaring. Then came the outcry. “In between larvae and fly! Hail Queen Chrysalis! Hail Queen Chrysalis.”

Chrysalis’s smiling face was forced. Her eyes watered. She muttered. “I love you all, my subjects.” Her words were not heard by a single soul in the cheering.

Hidden behind the curtains of the balcony, Husk and Arista murmured to themselves. The crowds’ roars reached them.

Arista sneered. “Such meaningless words and they’re swallowing it like sweet nectar.” She hissed violently. “As if words could feed them! What shall we do now?”

Husk sank down, defeated. “We harm a hair on her mane now and we shall never gain popular support.”

“Hey we haven’t acted yet. We can still salvage this… somehow.”

Husk bit down bitterly with his own fangs, piercing his lips, causing red to drip from his mouth. “Curses, she routes our revolution without spilling a drop of blood. I cannot avenge my wife this way… I cannot find her justice.”

“Princess Larvi, we can still follow her.”

“Still we shall follow,” Husk said, sighing. “I suppose it is at least a step toward the right direction.”

Den hopped around in his new sleek midnight blue suit. “This armor is awesome.” The plates had a dark shine and engraved line work.

“It’s made of chitin, it should be lighter than your heavy armor.” said Echo.

“Speed for protection? I’m not a Wonderbolt.”

“Well we danced before, I noticed you favored speed and maneuverability.”

“Dancing is what you call fighting?” Den smirked. “I supposed you’re right, it’s better to dodge than depend on the armor plate. Thanks for having this made for me. It’s very nice.”

Echo giggled. “You’re my Captain; it thought it would be appropriate that you were properly dressed.”

“This will also lend legitimacy to your claim if you have a Captain right?”

“Um you’re a Pegasus. I don’t think a Changeling Queen has ever had a Pegasus Captain.” said Echo.

Mandible entered the room. “Tell me about it. Dented Armor, why not broken armor?” said Mandible, sighing.

Echo stamped her hoof against the metal flooring. “Vice Captain Mandible, you will render your obedience! Dented Armor is my Captain; to question him is to question your Queen.”

Mandible stiffened and saluted. “Yes, my Queen.”

“Make ready, my troops. The formation has to be exact,” said Echo.

“It shall be done.” Mandible saluted again and exited.

“Did you have to be that harsh?”

“Den, Changeling Commanders can be challenged for their positions by the same rite I’m challenging my mother. You need make sure that your subordinates respect your ability if not your rank. You’re going to be my Captain.”

“Were you ever challenged?”

“Yup, once then never again. I beat her hard.” Echo grinned.

“That sort of policy seems rather cut throat. I think that’s the first thing we’re going to change. Respect should be mutual. Discipline shouldn’t be the only thing soldiers follow.”

Echo pouted. “You’re too soft.”

Den pecked Echo on the cheek. We don’t have to follow the ways of the past. Isn’t that why we’re doing this in the first place? You’re going to be my Queen.”

Echo blushed. “Let’s go, my Captain.”

Reagle, Zaza, and King Hawkmor stood on the bridge of the Griffin Flagship, the Valkyrie.

“Maybe Grimfeathers, ummm, this Chrysalis can be reasoned with.”

“Dad, that's not going to happen,” said Reagle.

“Son, never mind our arrangement with the Equestrians, why don't we throw in with Grimfeathers? Imagine it, Equestria could be ours. The odds are stacked up against us, why not pick the likelier side?”

“Helhiem’s gate, we're talking about this now?”

“Why not? We owe no loyalty to the Equestrians.”

Zaza spoke. “Okay, say if we take Equestria, could you keep it? A third of the population are unicorns capable of deadly magic. Funding the occupation force would bleed our coffers dry—” Zaza raised a hoof to stop Hawkmor’s reply. “—even with an occupation force supplemented by Zebra infantry.”

King Hawkmor raised a claw. “But all their Gems!”

The Zebra raised her hoof again, stopping Hawkmor. “—flooding our currency supply would devalue the currency of Griffin and Zebra nations through inflation. The Griffin and Zebra monopoly would collapse. It would lead to economic ruination.”

The giant Griffin’s mouth was agape.

Zaza sighed. “A simpler explanation is when a tribe trades in sea shells suddenly—”

“Zaza, dad understands. He’s just didn’t expect that from you.” said Reagle, smiling.

Hawkmor poked his son on the shoulder. “Your wife is very perceptive.”

“Let’s continue with the plan.” said Zaza.

Chrysalis and her officers stood facing a map of Equestria. Red x marks covered cities surrounding Canterlot. Husk and Arista had subdued postures as they entered.

Chrysalis barked. “Give me a progress report!”

Arista replied. “The search for Celestia continues.”

“Incompetence,” Chrysalis spat.

A Changeling messenger bowed before Chrysalis. “My Queen, it's the Valkyrie and two War Wing escorts. King Hawkmor is aboard. The correct pass-phrase has been provided by his handler Lieutenant Mandible.”

Chrysalis rubbed her forehead with a hoof. She groaned. “Bring that foolish Griffin to me. It is time he be put down.”

“My Queen, Hawkmor is allied with us.”

“I have no need of allies. All tools to my final goal have served their purposes.”

Husk raised a brow ridge. “My Queen, the command of the Griffin Kingdoms is decisive. What future do you have planned for our people that you abandon such an asset?”

The dark Queen smiled. “Captain Husk, despite your clumsily assembled opposition you remain alive because you are more useful than trouble. Tip that scale again, I dare you—” Her eyes scanned the room. “—any of you.”

The boarding ramp of the Valkyrie extended, the welcoming reception of Changeling soldiers were surprised when Echo and Den walked down.

“The rebel Princess, seize her!” shouted one soldier.

Echo’s horn sparked for a moment. All the soldiers that had raised spears dropped them as they crumpled over into fetal positions.

Arista gasped. “That attack.”

Echo beamed as she strolled next her fellow Changeling. “You are Husk’s lieutenant.”

The wingless changeling shuffled to bow. “Yes, Arista at your service.”

Den offered a hoof. “Pleasure to meet you.”

Arista cautiously bumped hooves with the Pegasus.

Echo turned to Arista. “How many supporters did you and Husk secure?”

“We had a third but after Chrysalis’ speech we were reduced to less than a fourth,” said Arista.

“How will we recognized them?” asked Den.

“Green eyes.” said Arista, pointing to her own.

Den walked beside Echo to the Canterlot steps led by Arista. The white marble way was flanked by rows upon rows of dark armored Changeling troops. The masses of Changelings directed their snarls at Den. Some noticed his black armor and tilted their heads in confusion.

At the end of the line awaited Chrysalis from atop the steps to the palace. Her face only flickered in surprise for a moment before contorting into a scowl.

She narrowed her eyes. “Daughter.”

Echo growled in reply. “Mother.”

“You might have lived out your days with your pet if you ran away.”

“I have taken the Ascendency Rite!” Echo declared.

“You lie. The trials are impossible.” said Chrysalis flatly.

Echo ignored Chrysalis and instead spoke to her fellow changelings as she spoke to Chrysalis. She shouted so that other changelings could hear. “Under your leadership, you killed two thirds of the worker caste! You are unfit to rule.” Echo turned to soldiers. “By the ancient codes set forth since Queen Gossamer, I challenge you, Chrysalis, to a duel for title!”

“Daughter, your request for a duel has been denied.” said Chrysalis.

“You have no right to refuse.”

Chrysalis chuckled. “You have much to learn of the world and its cruelties. Might makes right. I expected better from you.”

“I didn’t think you would play fair, so neither will I.” She shouted again to arrayed rows of Changelings. “My fellow Changelings, those of you loyal to our true cause, stand by me now! I promise substantiation!” Echo shouted.

Her speech was met with no response from the assembled Changeling troops.

Chrysalis feigned a yawn. “I have promised them the same. I offered them the energy of an entire nation.

Den murmured quietly. “An entire nation?”

The Changeling Queen laughed. “Your coup has failed; you are without supporters.”

“We stand behind the new Queen!” Husk and Arista and several squads of soldiers walked to Echo’s side.

Chrysalis scoffed. “I offered you substantiation. I have a proven method.”

“Yeah, my dead wife is proof enough.” Husk snarled.

“Your deaths are assured. Your numbers are still paltry.” said Chrysalis.

Echo smirked. “Is that so? I have friends!”

She fired her horn. The light blinded the Changelings. When their eyes adjusted, several platoons of Royal Guards, Zebras, and Griffins had appeared armed and ready to spring.

Den shouted. “Attack! Capture Chrysalis!”

Chrysalis threw several soldiers in front of her. “Defend me you fools!”

She lifted one cowering Changeling and tossed him into the fray. The Changeling screamed as he sailed across the sky, bowling over several Royal Guards. “My Queeeeeeen!”

Other Changeling soldiers jumped to outcropped positions on the Canterlot steps. They transformed into dark Griffins and jumped behind strange crossbow mechanisms. Rotating the cranks, they fired the devices. Bolts spat from the machines.

“Take cover!” shouted Husk.

Echo and Den ducked behind giant potted plants that provided moderate cover.

He looked at the reflected image on the blade of his spear. The wooden contraption spat out death. Fallen bodies bled red onto the white marble way. “Automatic crossbows, Reagle said we might have to contend with those.”

Arista snarled. “Curses, our insider amongst the crossbow crews has betrayed us. Those machines were supposed to have disabled.”

“Can we flank them?” asked Echo.

Husk shook his head. “No, it’s the only way into the castle. The other approaches have been sealed. An aerial assault is not possible with more those emplacements guarding the entry balconies.”

“I may know a way,” said Den.

“Where how?” asked Echo.

Den looked at Echo. “Our first date, I took you on a castle tour. Do you remember how I got us in?”

Echo gasped. She kissed Den on the cheek. “The secret passage!”

Husk and Arista looked at them with confusion. “What shall we do?”

Echo instructed. “We shall assault the castle.” She gesture a hoof to Den and herself. “There’s better mission for you. Have several squads of yours revert back to blue eyes. Have them blend back into the enemy ranks.”

Den pointed to several spires with his wing tips. “Send those soldiers to knock out ground to air communications. We want the battle below to be as confusing as possible so that they don’t single us out and bomb us.”

Husk nodded. “I’ll see to it personally.”

“There’s a commotion on the ground. Magical explosions, definitely.” said a Griffin deck officer looking on with a telescope.

Reagle rose from his seat.“That’s our signal. Immediately target their guide rudders.” He pointed to several enemy War Wings with his claws. “Those ships alone!”

King Hawkmor rubbed his beak, worriedly. “Shouldn’t we target the airships already in position to attack us? Guide rudders, they’re the least vital part of the ships. They’ll be able to repair them easily and in battle.”

“Their guide rudders should be easier to destroy than their entire ships. We’re sunk if they swarm us,” said Zaza, “It is better we delay their entry in the battle.”

The Valkyrie and her two escort airships opened their gun ports, and adjusted their turrets. As they reversed away from the enemy formation, their guns erupted.

Several Changeling officers saluted as Queen Chrysalis entered her War Room. Changelings shuffled setting pieces upon their map.

A Changeling officer looked at the black and white pawns on the map intermixed. “My Queen, rebel factions have appeared within our ranks. The enemies that have teleported in are too close to bomb with the War Wings.”

Another Changeling gritted its teeth. “King Hawkmor and his three ships, they’ve turned on us. Three of our own ships have lost directional control.”

Chrysalis groaned feeling her forehead. “Bothersome insects, have our disabled ships launch fliers to board and capture the enemy ships.”

A messenger ran into the room. “Princess Larvi has gotten past the castle’s outer wall! Her troops are pouring in!”

“At the rate of her advance she’ll reach us in—”

Chrysalis began laughing. Everyone in the room recoiled, remembering the last time.

“My Queen?”

In between her maniacal cackling she spoke. “Why did I not think of it before?” She smiled and closed her eyes, absorbed in her laughter.

One Changeling whispered. “If she doesn’t give an order, I’m joining the rebels.”

Chrysalis levitated the king chess piece on the map. “Move our command center to soldier barracks. Have five of our airships pursue the enemy.”

“Yes my Queen.”

Dramatically she cleared pawns from castle part of the map. “Withdraw my personal guards from the castle. Let little Princess Larvi come!”

“My Queen, she’s after your life.”

“I know.” Chrysalis smiled, pushing the white queen piece against the black queen piece.

Aboard the Valkyrie, King Hawkmor took a backseat as he watched proudly.

“From the observation deck, counting four Enemy War Wings have deployed air mobiles. They’re trying to board us.” said a Griffin officer.

Zaza shouted. “Have them taste our Zebra flak cannons! Load the canister shot!”

Zebra soldiers aboard fired cannons affixed to the landing hangers of the Valkyrie. Peppered with flying shrapnel, the cloud of enemy fliers dispersed in the sky.

“They won’t try that again,” said Zaza.

“Now,” Reagle directed with sword. “Target their most forward ship. Retaliate with our main cannons!”

The Valkyrie and her two escorts blasted their turret guns. The heavy barrage was concentrated towards a single enemy War Wing, astonishingly the enemy ship’s shield held. The cannonballs cascaded and were deflected by the barrier.

King Hawkmor looked worriedly. “Their shields can’t be that powerful. How now can they deflect our fire?”

Mandible arose to answer. “They’re focusing on the front protection, our guns won’t get through.”

“Just what we want,” said Zaza, smiling.

Aboard the Thunderhead, Blue sat in the captain’s chair. She spun in the seat impatiently.

A Pegasus Royal Guard saluted. “A message from Cloudsdale, the Weather Factory is working at full production. The fog of war will shroud us.”

“Cool, we’ll be ready soon.” said Blue.

A Unicorn Guards-pony bit his hoof. “Commander Blueberry Frost, this plan is still incredibly risky.”

Blue declared. “Don’t worry, we have da elements!”

Heads on the command bridge were turned. “The Elements of Harmony?! They’re with us?”

“I thought the avatars of Harmony were captured with Canterlot. This is great news!” said another crew member.

She shook her head. “Nope! We don’t got dem.”

“There goes hope.” Exasperated sighs and dejected looks filled the room.

“We’ve got somethin’ better! We’ve got da element of surprise! I think wind is also an element.” Blue looked quizzically off in the distance, lost in her head. “Cannon fire counts as the fire element right?”

“We’re following a mad mare—”

Blue shot up from her seat. “Don’t ya forget it! Forward, we attack!”

From the fog emerged the Thunderhead, the massive airship immediately joined the battle. It’s smaller Zebra counterpart also entered the fray. The first volley of the ships knocked out the engines of three War Wings.

Changeling troops continued firing their automatic crossbows. The steps to the Canterlot Castle were littered with the bodies of soldiers that attempted to assault the battlements.

“More bolts!” hissed a Changeling as she manipulated the weapon’s crank. She turned and gulped.

Echo’s horned glowed. The blast sent the crossbow crews tumbling down the white marble steps.

Den waved a wing to their soldiers taking cover. “Advance!”

The alliance of Griffins, Zebras, ponies, and rebel Changelings flooded into the castle. Immediately the empty hallways unnerved them.

“Where is the enemy?” asked a Griffin.

A Royal Guard replied. “I do not like this… it reminds of the trap at the prison castle.”

A Zebra shuddered. “I have still have nightmares of Anavrin.”

“You two survived that?” asked a rebel Changeling.

The Royal Guard spat. “No thanks to your kind.”

“Hey!” hissed several rebel Changelings.

Den saw the argument beginning to brew in the left flank. He quickly flew over. “Let’s save the infighting for after the real fighting. Remember our goal.”

The diverse group nodded in compliance.

“What’s going on? The enemy keep should be the most heavily defended.” asked a Griffin soldier.

Echo replied. “We are being invited.”

Chrysalis walked to the center of main council room, the massive auditorium with a concentric circle of tables radiating outwards from the clear open area in the middle. She levitated an iron strong box to the center. Even through the cold, the warmth of the Crystal Heart gem could be felt.

Chrysalis murmured to herself as she worked. “Curses, the scepter is two parts! The gem is worthless without the staff of focus.” She opened the box, letting the Crystal Heart float upwards to be immediately locked in place by dark crystals summoned by her horn. She growled. “I need another point to the star and a conduit.”

A Changeling officer burst through the council room chamber doors.

“My Queen, the enemy has come!”

“I told you fools to let them,” Chrysalis snarled.

The officer bowed, touching a hoof to his heart. “We loyalists shall defend you to the last.”

“What is your name soldier? You seem familiar.” Chrysalis smiled.

“I am Chitin-no. It was so long ago, you would not remember me but you saved my life during famine… I know you used your life energy to do so.”

The dark Queen’s eye relaxed. She approached the soldier bending her head to his level. “You remind me so much of him… soldier would you do anything to protect me?”

The smaller Changeling blushed as his Queen’s breath hit him. “I swear it by the monarchs of old, dead and cold.”

Chrysalis raised a brow at the mention of ‘monarchs dead and cold’.

He bowed looking away. “It’s a common saying amongst the ranks. Poor choice of words, I meant I would do anything.”

“Kiss me.”

The battle above the skies was waged in fierce fervor. The giant airships, the Valkyrie and the Thunderhead fired against five enemy War Wings clustered together.

Aboard the Thunderhead, Blue was sunk in her captain’s chair chewing her hooves.

A group of ponies swamped Blue with battle updates and concerns. Blue hugged her seat.

“They recovered far too quickly.”

“They’re rotating their ships so we’re always fighting a fresh shield.”

“We’re running out ammunition. The firepower is not enough.”

“The left ballast is bleeding.”

Blue stamped a hoof onto the metal flooring. “Keep at it! We just need to disable them.”

“Hey kid, need help?” A yellow Pegasus with a fiery mane in a blue flight uniform stepped onto the bridge. Her wings were still in splints. She was assisted by her partner, another Pegasus, this one blue with a blackish mane.

“Spitfire! Soarin! Whatcha doing here?” asked Blue, quizzically.

“Look,” smiled Spitfire.

Outside the window a section of the fog lifted. Another ship like the Thunderhead appeared. The other giant warship joined in as the Thunderhead and Valkyrie unleashed another volley. The combined might of the three greater warships, shattered a shield. The blasts destroyed the engine blocks of the War Wing under assault.

“The S.S. Glorious Dawn isn’t complete!” said Blue.

“We got it half complete,” said Soarin, smirking.

The Glorious Dawn turned towards them. On its right side was wiring and metal scaffolding. The frame work of the ship showed bare and naked.

Spitfire nodded. “She’s very lopsided but the left armor has been fully fitted and gun decks on the left have been furnished.”

“Awesome! We can win this!” Blue cheered.

A Pegasus messenger entered the bridge. “The three other enemy War Wings have mobilized! They’re moving to join the battle!”

“Blargh!” Blue jumped up from her chair.

Den and Echo crashed through into the council chamber with Echo searing through the door. As they entered the doorway a green energy field pulsed. They felt the tingling sensation of its power. Den immediately turned to see the soldiers behind them stopped by the shield.

“Sir, we can’t get through.” said a Royal Guard.

“See if you can get around, they might not spend energy to seal every entryway.” said Den.

Echo’s eyes were focused to front of her.

Chrysalis was kissing a Changeling soldier. The soldier’s eyes widened. As their lips parted the soldier fell limp unto the ground.

“You’re sapping your own guards for energy now?!”

“Daughter,” Chrysalis addressed calmly.

“I’m no daughter of yours, monster,” Echo declared.

“Monster? We are all monsters, and forever we shall be. You seek to cure our people’s condition, don’t you? I have searched for the answer my entire life. Upon the dying breaths of my mother, she told me that it was a lie... told to her by her mother… so on from the first Queen.” said Chrysalis.

“What?” Den and Echo said flatly.

“My dearest daughter, it is falsehood. There is a no curse; it is our nature, the Changeling nature.”

Echo kept shaking her head. “But you… it is foretold with enough magic we could…”

Den countered. “The last page of your people’s great book, it’s torn. You have it!”

“The last page was blank; I tore it out in rage,” Chrysalis said sadly.

“Why?!” came Echo’s cry.

“Substantiation was the noble lie told to keep our people together after the races of ponies had united to drive us beneath the surface. Now, even if we conquered all of Equestria, in several generations’ time all that will not be enough to satisfy our want… The hole in our hearts shall never be filled. This is the essence of pure despair!” Chrysalis laughed with a hallow reverb that rang into the soul.

Den gritted his teeth. “If you’ve been lying about the true goal to your people, what in Tartarus do you really have planned then?”

Chrysalis smiled. “Life is suffering. We can only temporarily dull the pain. The anesthetic is priceless. I shall pay that price.”

Still shaking slightly, Echo had recovered enough to speak. “For what? What’s worth that?”

For a moment the fury and cynicism disappeared from Chrysalis’s voice. “A lost love.”

Echo’s ears perked up. “That’s sentimental of you—” A skeptical brow was raised. “—unbelievably so.”

She admitted. “It was not the original plan… that has become another price I am willing to pay.”

Den caught on. “It’s the price isn’t it?”

“Nothing else matters. Enough meaningless talk!” Her horn sparked nefariously. “Let the nihilism flow! Feel it now!”

Dark green energy began eating at their vision, all else started to fade.

Echo shouted. “Don’t look away, it’s an emotive attack!”

The three great ships, the Thunderhead, the Glorious Dawn, and the Valkyrie blasted yet another Changeling shield apart. The exposed warship’s engines were blown apart. The counter fire from the cluster of War Wings knocked rippled through hulls of the Valkyrie’s two escort ships.

Reagle and Zaza stood poised on the command deck of the Valkyrie.

“They’re using the crippled ones as shields; it is as if we haven’t made a difference. Can we finish them before the enemy’s reinforcements arrive?” asked King Hawkmor.

“War Wings One and Two are using remaining lift to land. Our escorts are down.” cried a communications officer.

Reagle bit his beak. “Bloody helhiem.”

“The other three enemy airships are nearly in range!”

Reagle rubbed his talons against his beak. The Griffin spoke nervously. “Okay we can still deal with this. Maybe we can regroup and recoup.”

Zaza pointed with a hoof. “Wait, they aren’t forming a pincer maneuver. They’re joining the center mass.”

The three War Wings from Canterlot flew into the formation of the other five. As they entered the shield array the ships fired. Three enemy airships were immediately disabled. The leader of the group of Canterlot War Wings began immediately flashing their signal lights.

Mandible gave a Changeling chirp. “It’s Husk and Arista. Those ships belong to the rebel faction.”

“The rebels!” said Reagle.

“Huzzah! We’ve won the day!” King Hawkmor raised a victorious claw.

“The skies belong to us!” Zaza hugged Reagle.

Aboard the Thunderhead, Blue hopped happily about. Her enthusiasm was infectious and other crew members got up from their seats.

“Woooo we did it!” Blue hugged one crew member after another.

Spitfire looked through a spyglass. “Signals from the War Wings, they’re surrendering.”

The council chamber had disappeared in their minds. Coldness from within and without robbed them of warmth. Den and Echo backed up next to each other. The howls and screams of the dead and dying filled their ears. Visions of countless corpses invaded their minds. The ruins of greater civilizations, blood soaked battlefields, and the decay of the ages, assaulted them in a great wave. The tide was rolling in and withering the rock of their faith.

“What is this?!” cried Den.

“It’s pure despair, the ultimate emotive attack. I only ever survived it! I do not believe it can be overcome,” said Echo, shivered to the soul.

Despite doubt Den spoke. “I fought fear from your father, Amorpheus. We can do this!” He nudged next to her trying to prop her up her shaking body.

“The Changeling people are doomed, Chrysalis said so. It is our nature!”

“We’ve proven otherwise? Haven’t we?”

“There is no substantiation, there’s no hope.”

“Stop thinking about that!”

“Den, I’m sorry I’m not strong enough!” Echo wailed as she staggered.

“Yes you are! Think of our love!”

“Forgive me.” Echo fell back as she averted her eyes from the streaming horrors.

He panicked as he felt no warmth from Echo. “No!” Den followed Echo and turned towards her.

The advancing coldness swallowed them up as she looked away.

Atop the mountain city, a glow began spreading until the cracks and contours of the mountain itself glowed. Lines of light began coursing through the landscape seeming to shatter the glass of reality. From the cracks hungering tendrils of dark green light reached forth towards the sky.

Aboard the Valkyrie, celebratory glasses of wine were dropped as the light penetrated the windows.

Zaza stamped her hoof. “Back to battle stations!” She jumped to the steering column and pulled it violently. “All ships disengage ballasts! Climb! Climb! Get us out of the area of affect!”

Reagle grit his beak. “We’ve won the battle, but I fear we have lost the war. This cannot be escaped.”

“What’s going on there?” asked King Hawkmor.

Mandible placed his hooves over his head. “I don’t want to die!” The Changeling ran out of the bridge.

“Where’s that bugger going, there’s nowhere to run,” Reagle remarked, calmly picking up his wine glass. He downed the drink then pulled Zaza close while she was in the middle of shouting orders.

“Reagle?!” Zaza blurted as he tumbled atop of her.

“When the world’s ending, why fret when there’s infinitely better things to do.” he said, kissing her.

“You pervert,” said Zaza, affectionately, before kissing him back.

King Hawkmor coughed before looking away, as did the rest of the crew.

Den stirred to find Chrysalis happily humming as she worked. Lines carved into the floor had already begun pulsing with power. Using her magic she levitated several cocoons into position. Inside were the sleeping bodies of ponies. Den recognized one of them to be the element bearer of magic.

His awakened mind immediately jumped to his last sight of the mare beside him disappearing into the darkness. “Echo!” He shouted as he looked at the crumpled body next to him. He jumped up and shook her to no avail.

“So you survived that?” Chrysalis gasped in surprise. She stopped her work for a moment.

Den pointed his lance at the dark Queen. “Undo the spell!”

“Ironic, she might have overcome my attack if she did not know the truth about our people.”

“So what? Our relationship started on a lie but I know a truth. I love her and she loves me.”

Chrysalis gave an amused look. “Yes, you may love the parasite but the leech loves only the blood it may draw from you. Her love for you shall always be fettered by that fact. Her love is weak.”

“Who are you to call our bound weak?”

“Changelings can feel only cold from one another. We are forever left in doubt because we cannot sense the emotions of our own. Yet he loved me the same. My Amorpheus…”

“I’m not a unicorn, I can’t sense Echo’s feelings, yet I love her. I’m not here to debate philosophy with you! You bring her back!” Den readied his lance bending his legs for and stretching his wings.

Chrysalis snorted. “Bah, you’re powerless anyway. Your threat is emptier than the hole in my heart.” She continued levitated a cocoon in to position.

“I know your plan, I read up on magical rays after your trap in Anavrin. You’re using live ponies as the points in your star formation. You require another point, another pony.” Den pointed his lance at Echo.

The Changeling Empress was impressed her grin widened as she turned her attention fully onto Den. “You grow ever more interesting. I can tell though your stance is weak. You are bluffing.”

He gave a crazed smile. Den redirected his lance at one of the cocoons where a white stallion lay. “He cheated off my written reports at the academy. I never did like Shining Armor.”

Chrysalis chortled. “Neither did I! Not my tastes in partners. The time masquerading as his wife was insufferable.”

He tensed his body. “I’m serious, I will kill him. Then your plan is bust. Infantry will eventually break past your barrier and our army will overwhelm even you.”

She stopped her laughter. “It would be your last act alive; afterwards the incomplete array is still enough to destroy this miserable city.”

“The incomplete array wouldn’t work for what you want,” He sharpened his eyes countering.

“Were words weapons , then I would say touché. I see your point, we are at a stalemate.”

There for a moment they locked eyes neither moved bound by their convictions.

“You who have betrayed your pony kind to be with my daughter, would you trade the world to be with the one you love?” Chrysalis asked.

Den struggled to reply as the depth of his resolve was tested.

“I have an offer for you. I need only my daughter’s mana reserves for the array to work. I will permit you both to live, if you give me Equestria. You needn’t do a thing. I can take your silence as compliance.”

He spoke to himself. “This is the part of the epic poem where the hero refuses the last temptation. The knight surrenders worldly attachments for the greater good. Open to him then are the heavenly rewards in the Celestial Plane.”

Chrysalis nodded. “A literate Pegasus! I have now truly seen it all. I wondered why my daughter, Larvi, loves you.” She smiled. “You can act according to that script—”

He words chilled. “—however know that of all things waiting for you, she will not be in the Celestial Plane. My daughter is a vile thing; paradise is not for the corrupted.”

“What would take greater courage?” Den’s face was twisted with pain. “What is even right?”

Chrysalis laughed, lightly. “Are you asking me? Aren’t I your enemy?”

He glowered at her. “You mock me?”

“No, I was where you are now. I devoted my life to my subjects and some sort of greater good. Many even called me a hero, the Warrior Princess.”

Den narrowed his eyes skeptically.

“Surprising, I know.” Chrysalis rolled her eyes.

“What happened then to make you what you are today? What was your choice?”

Her eyes became unfocused as if staring at a far off invisible horizon. “I defeated my sisters’ selfish bids for the throne. I and Amorpheus, we overthrew my mother the tyrant queen. Too hastily, I accepted the mantle of responsibility and became monarch and master of my people’s destiny. Yet loneliness and despair was all that I was met with. My crown became thorny, my heart-heavy, and now all the power means nothing.”

“Ironic, you fought the power then became it. I had in my mind, you were a monster. I suppose it is a matter of perspective. I cannot judge you.”

“Make your choice. Remember she cannot walk with you along the ‘high’ road.”

The strength he used to overcome pure despair was spent. His hope in hell had been turned upside down. Tears streamed from his eyes. He pulled from the nothingness, an unknown resolve. He broke through it and stood taller yet felt lower. The great weight threatened to pull him into the abyss. He realized long ago beyond even his control his heart had made its choice.

“I am not a shining example. I am no hero. My armor is dented. I accept.”

The Chrysalis’ brow ridge rose in surprise then her expression softened. “You truly care for her, don’t you? For a moment, I am envious of my daughter.”

“Shut up, demon.”

“Demon? I should call you that. You have my blessing. Welcome to the family.”

Chapter 18 Dream's End and Beginning

View Online

He hung his head low. Chrysalis finished her work.

There was a faint voice. “Den don’t, you could never live with the guilt. It would destroy you.”

Den rushed to brace her so that she did not topple. “Echo,” Den stammered, “I didn’t know what I would do if you hadn’t gotten up.”

The smaller Changeling stood up shakily.

“Daughter, don’t you dare defy me, not now.”

Echo coughed. “I’m not just going to lie there listening to your lies.”

“Lies?” Chrysalis sneered.

“You say you were ruled by responsibility, but that is a lie. You may have taken the burden but it was not yours to take. You could have told your subjects the truth.”

“Am I wrong? See how you fell from that truth. You might have overcome me if you had not known.”

“That may be true, but I got back up.” said Echo. She paused as she coughed out blood. “Changelings and ponies are imperfect creatures, but for failing we shouldn’t be blamed. We are only damned if we don’t get back up.”

“Idealistic rubbish.” Chrysalis then calmed herself she spoke pleadingly. “Darling daughter, why must we fight? In the past I was distant to prepare you for the cold reality of the world, however I was always watching. My heart soared and sunk at your tiny successes and failures. The affection I withheld then, I would let flow freely. We could be a family. I could bring your father back.”

Echo spat. “Bringing Amorpheus back, what would he say about your actions?! You’re killing our people in addition to everypony!”

Chrysalis was nonplussed. A disturbing grin appeared on her face. “Killing? I call it relief. Life is suffering.”

Echo recoiled. “You’ve gone insane with grief! The power has utterly corrupted you! …I am sorry, mother; your madness must end…” Her horned sparked. “Feel fear, you can neither define or defend!”

A familiar dread filled their air. Chrysalis shrieked. She formed a shield as the black tunnel washed over her.

“That attack is a direct copy of your father’s.” Den remarked.

“My father’s attack won’t delay her long. Den, kiss me, I need a spark to light the fire!”

“Take as much as you need.” Den kissed her and felt warmth leave him. He gasped for air as their lips left.

“Thank you.” Echo stood on her own strength now.

In hellish green flame the tunnel of darkness evaporated. The Queen emerged intact from the attack. Chrysalis’s eyes burned with rage. “How dare you use his attack against me!? You should know existential dread, only works on those who fear death!”

Den coughed. “You should be afraid. Before we stepped into this chamber, instead of trying to find a way around your shield I had our soldiers mark this area… for cannon bombardment!”

Both Echo and Chrysalis swiveled their heads towards Den. “What?!”

Den jumped towards Echo pushing her down along with him.

Fifteen minutes prior… The heavens in disarray, a ship floated outlined by the light of the sun and moon. Below the earth pulsated with tentacles made of malignant energy.

“We’re humped! We are so humped!” Soarin repeated, jittering.

Spitfire slapped her lieutenant. “We’re Wonderbolts, the elite! Get a grip!”

Blue showed her hoof. “We don’t have fingers. Ain’t that a Griffin expression?”

Spitfire noticed Captain Blueberry was unmoving still. “Why are you so calm about this?”

A small stream of salty water was flowing down her face. “In private, Den discussed this with me. It was our deepest fear… the capital assault team has failed.”

“What?”

“Set a course for Canterlot.”

The helms-pony gulped. “We’ll be moving into the field of the leech life spell.”

“At the last moment possible, I want dem controls locked. Tell da gun crews to fire the before we’re in.”

“What’s your plan?”

Blue grinned like a mad mare. “We’re the only ship within range and we’re the da only one that’s got enough blastin’ powder to take out two Canterlots.”

In present time… A tight cluster of booms resounded before, rupturing through the ceiling of the council chamber, came cannon shots. The wooden benches where the leaders and shakers of Equestria sat where reduced to splinters. The tiles of the floor were ripped apart by the impact the shots. Chrysalis screamed as she was buried underneath the collapsing ceiling.

Echo and Den huddled next to each other, tightly. Echo hastily casted a small shield. Splinters and rock pieces peppered their shield.

Echo shouted. “Den, what did you do?!”

“I am so sorry, I made a contingency plan with Blue… in case I wasn’t strong enough.”

“Don’t you mean we? Why didn’t you bother to tell me?”

Den sunk his head low. “Our bond is like a chain, I thought I was the weakest link.”

“No I was… I shouldn’t have succumbed to her attack.”

“We’re both weak, okay?” Den kissed Echo on the cheek lightly.

Blue held her hooves unto the steering column. As her crewmates fell, she stood with pure determination. Fatigue sapped at her strength but she only struggled harder. To her surprise, two others leaped next to her.

“We got you, kid!” Soarin and Spitfire jumped to her sides, propping her up.

They smiled at each other acknowledging. Together they clung unto the steering column.

The cannon shots gradually diminished…. Echo and Den dared finally to pop upwards to look at the devastation. The entire left wing of the council chamber was obliterated and open to the air and sky.

“That has got to have ended it.” said Echo.

Den sighed in relief as he saw the Thunderhead in the sky.

“Blueberry’s ship is getting close. We should signal Blue to divert course.” Den chuckled.

Echo shook her head. “They’ve entered Canterlot’s outskirts and into the magic field. The crew is dead.”

Den bit back tears.

“I’m so sorry, Den. Your friend Blueberry has made the ultimate sacrifice…”

“….her ship is loaded with enough explosives to kill us all. Twice!”

From the rubble of stone and wood there came a rumbling.

A piercing beam shot out from the debris. The ray seared off the left rudders of the approaching airship. Without guidance, the ship veered slightly. The mass of metal loomed over their heads. The rush of air from the ship’s passing blew dust into a massive cloud. They shielded themselves as they choked on the smoke. The roar of the engines died down as the ship heading off in the opposite horizon.

“What was that?!” asked Den.

“Maybe Husk and Arista?” suggested Echo.

As the cloud began clearing, they could see the silhouetted of an all too familiar figure and the source of the beam.

The word left their lips slowly. “No.”

“Clever, I was caught off guard.” Chrysalis stood but only barely. Her right flank was bleeding profusely. She closed her right eye as a stream of blood leaked from her head.

Echo charged her horn. “Quickly, Den, we must—”

Chrysalis blasted her voice. “No more talk! My mercy was my weakness.” She held them in a telekinetic sheath. Using her magic she pulled her four cocoons from the debris. Channeling her magic she moved them into position.

In explosion of blinding white, their world ended.

A whistling sound, he swore he could hear it. Slowly he opened his eyes to his surroundings. There was a near infinite amount of glowing light around him. He was wrapped in the warmth of the tiny spheres. He turned to his right and found Echo standing with him. Upon her face was their shared confusion.

Echo rubbed herself on Den like a cat.

“Umm Echo, what are you doing?” said Den.

She pulled Den’s head around with her hooves, feeling his face. “This isn’t dream space; the tactile sensation is too vivid.”

Den gestured his hoof at the constellations and galaxies around them. “That’s because this is the Celestial Plane!” Den laughed with a lunatic bent.

Echo threw up her hooves, shrugging. “So what? We’re dead then?”

“How the buck should I know!?” He giggled, galloping through the field of stars.

His whimsy infected her as well. “Wait! Den?” Echo followed after as they plowed through the lights.

Dancing through the stars, they chased after one another.

Finally catching up to Den, she tackled him playfully into a bed of stars. They tussled for a while before she emerged victorious.

“Aha, I have you!” Echo pinned Den.

“So you have.”

“Um so where are we? What is the Celestial plane?”

“I’ve only read of it! It’s a place of ascension! It is said the Princesses Cadance and Twilight attained enlightenment and became Alicorns here. To gaze with mortal eyes at the splendor here is to know divinity. This is the pinnacle for all scholars and soldiers.”

Echo swiveled her head looking at the fields of stars. “It is also said that should the corrupted set foot here they will be smote for their transgressions.”

“You know of this place?”

“Albeit different names, the lore of many cultures speak of this place.” Echo rolled off of him and they laid in the star bed facing each other. She turned her head away. “I heard you talking with Chrysalis… you’d suffer the tortures of Tartarus for me? You would corrupt yourself?”

Den pulled her back and kissed her. “I don’t care where I am so long as I’m with you.”

She snuggled closer to him. “About that… we both have fatalistic impulses. Could you promise me you won’t destroy yourself on my behalf? Please, I couldn’t see you do that for me.”

He smiled. “Only if you’ll promise the same.”

She bobbed her head eagerly.

“I do.” Den blushed.

Echo intoned passionately. “I do.”

“You make that sound like a wedding vow.”

A matronly voice surprised them. “I now pronounce you husband and wife.” The voice had a tingle of mischief. “I am legally allowed to wed you.”

“Holy Celestia!” Den blurted. “Celestia!”

Den and Echo leaped off from their bed of stars. The white Alicorn nodded.

“I am not a pony nor your subject.” said Echo meekly.

Celestia’s word were kindly. “That should not matter. I have watched you both. You hold genuine concern for each other and your intentions are good. ”

Den spouted. “Princess, what are you doing here? Aren’t you in a coma?”

Celestia frowned. “Even weakened as I must do my duty. I walk in two worlds even if I cannot physically walk in one… This is the Celestial plane, my little pony, I am Celestia.”

“That sentiment is full of conceit and deceit. This place is called the Astral Plane. It predates even you.” From the distance emerged another... Chrysalis.

Celestia turned toward her opponent. “Regardless, I have taken it upon myself to defend it and the realms beyond. You shall not pass with your selfish wish.”

Chrysalis’ eyes burned with determination. “Grant me my heart’s desire! I have come thus far, power is my passport!”

“Your ancestor thought the same.”

“You cannot resist me.”

“I was good friends with the first Changeling Queen. We were colleagues of equal standing. I saw her fall when Chitania cursed her people by attempting to bring forth a miracle through force.”

Chrysalis smirked. “The people of your petty nation are my currency. The toll with souls I have more than enough to pay. Again, you cannot stop me.”

“I will never cease trying!” Celestia’s horn flared. “Scorpio!” From the stars, a giant scorpion of spell light formed around Celestia.

“Draco!” Chrysalis sparked her own horn. Stars of another constellation connected in the darkness to form a mighty dragon around Chrysalis.

The star creatures attacked one another. The pincers of the Scorpio locked with the claws of Draco. The tail of Scorpio stabbed at its opponent while Draco’s long neck bit at it.

The star field erupted in battle as the constellations contested. The star titans attacked with staggering force, each shaking from the blows they delivered upon each other. Echo and Den stood hesitantly at the sidelines.

Den tugged at Echo. “We have to help.”

“How? This is a duel of demigods.”

“What do you know about your father and mother?”

Echo looked pensively off. “My mother and father, fear and despair were their signature attacks… however they were meant to be a combination move. Their attack destroyed the tyrant Queen Gossamer.”

“We need a counter spell… something greater. Your father, Amorpheus, he attacked me with fear… I overcame it because I remember I loved you more than I feared him or even your nature.”

“I overcame my mother’s despair because you were an example of hope of coexistence.”

“Hope and Love!” They both shouted together.

“I can channel it into an emotive attack. I will try to link us together. We will have our chance when Chrysalis uses it.”

Den wondered aloud. “Will it be strong enough? Will we?”

She smiled. “Have hope.”

“I love you.”

The giant of star scorpion was eroded away by a blast of the dragon’s fire. The final stab of the Scorpio punctured the star body of the Draco. Celestia and Chrysalis reappeared as their puppet bodies flickered into darkness.

“Burn with the intensity of six suns!” Celestia fired a white beam.

Chrysalis charged her own spell. “Feel the anguish of the ages! Taste the essence of pure despair!” A tunnel of pitch black was blasted towards the white Alicorn.

Celestia’s light was swiftly swallowed by the darkness. Her legs quaked as her postured gradually lowered.

Den shouted as he flew next to Celestia. “We can take it from here!”

Celestia nodded only slightly as she stumbled back.

“Now!” Echo flew in front of Celestia with Den beside her.

Instantly the tunnel of darkness shrouded them. Echo’s horn provided meager light. The terrible and terrifying visions entered their minds.

“Fight it!” Echo screamed through the darkness.

Chrysalis voice chimed in their heads. “What is this? You’ve come back for more? Your struggling is moot!”

“We won’t fall!” Den yelled.

Together words formed in Den and Echo’s minds. Changeling and pony, their voices meshed as one and spoke in harmony.

Let love light the darkness we shout!

Together our hearts are whole, one body and soul!

Let hope banish the demons of doubt!

Today and yesterdays’ sorrow shall not blacken tomorrow!

With their chant the darkness receded. The energy surged through. They were wrapped in another explosion of white that enveloped them.

Den and Echo found themselves in a space that was completely white. The featureless zone was unnervingly cold whereas the Astral plane was warm.

“Where are we now?” Den asked.

Echo shrugged. “Now are we dead?”

“Yes you could say that. You’re in between states.” Celestia spoke as her outline emerged from the white and her other colored features came into focus. “I stopped you so I could say thank you before your return.”

Echo replied angrily. “There’s something I’ve been meaning to ask. Some say you’re gifted with prescience. Did you engineer this entire scenario?”

“No my little pony.” Celestia frowned deeply. “Foresight is most murky. Hardly anything comes into focus… and the devil is in the details. Nothing is concretely preordained. With foreknowledge the moment of observation changes the state of the picture. Rest assured you have free will.”

Echo nodded with satisfaction.

“Celestia, could you come back?” asked Den. “There’s so much you could do to help post war Equestria.”

“I think I shall let my sister run things for a while. I could use a tiny vacation after a thousand years of singular rule. Her New Lunar Republic is a novel idea and I would like to see what comes.”

“Where will you go?” asked Den.

“This place is a nexus to many worlds… it rumored every time a writer puts pen to paper, a new one is created. I think I should like to see how thing would be if they played out differently.” Celestia smiled. “Again, Equestria and the world thanks you for your sacrifices.” The Princess’s image began to zoom out.

“Wait, there’s so many more questions!” Echo called out.

The white world disappeared with a flurry of hues. The colors rushed through their minds until black was introduced.

Den felt a pain in his forehead. He rubbed his head with a hoof. “Awww… I’ve been ripped off. I didn’t become an alicorn.” He mused.

“Nope, still a pegasus, but mine!” Echo chirped cheerfully.

Once more, they were in the council chamber that was exposed to the open air. There was a break in the clouds where sunshine shone a spotlight on them, however the heavens were quickly closing up.

Smoldering but still standing, Chrysalis coughed. “How?”

Den stiffened up. Echo stopped him from attacking. “I sense no power from her. She’s no threat now. The magical rebound robbed her of her energy.”

“How could you defeat pure despair? You know the terrible truth…”

“Our people can transcend this. We could find a way.” said Echo.

“Foalish nympth, how dare you think that you know better than your mother…” Chrysalis spat out blood. She then chuckled. “Perhaps, daughter you do know… I remember you conquered pure despair once. I am proud.” Chrysalis smiled.

Echo scolded. “Mother, don’t be so dramatic. I can revive you.”

“No, there cannot be two Queens. When I am dead, blame everything on me, it may spare our people hate. I care not for my name in the afterwards.” said Chrysalis

Echo shook her head. “No mom, I’m going to bring you back.” Echo fired a beam at Chrysalis. She was surprised when the magic was countered by a weak shield.

“Dear daughter, I have seen things… the boiling of oceans as dragons wage war, duels between goddesses, and I am so tired. No more, I wish to join Amorpheus in the void.” said Chrysalis. The Queen’s form was fading as light began to seep through her very outline. Her body like her wings was becoming translucent.

Tears began streaming from Echo’s face. “Mom!” She hugged the greater Changeling.

Chrysalis gasped in pleasant surprise. She gently returned the hug. “One last thing… go to the old hive’s archives… seek out our journal… we did not find a cure for our peoples’ curse however we got closer than any.”

Echo hugged her mother for the first and last time and her mother returned the gesture. She looked up and saw her mother smiling without malice or cruelty.

“Please don’t go,” Echo hugged harder.

“Dear daughter, I must.” Twinkling into nothingness Chrysalis’ form faded to a near water paint impression before it evaporated into the sunlight. The monarch crown of ebony steel clattered the ground. Echo’s hooves ended up wrapped around herself.

Den draped his hooved around Echo.

Their eyes were distracted by a flashing signal light. It was the Thunderhead. The ship circled slowly. More ships joined it. The War Wings from the Griffin Kingdoms also flashed their signals.

“That’s horse code! Everyone is alive!”

“Yes, everyone.” Echo gave a mixed smile.

“I’m sorry.” Den dampened his enthusiasm.

“No, this is cause to celebrate,” said Echo.

“We will, my Queen.”

Echo stared at her mother’s crown. The ornament piece glowed slightly with what was left a magical aura. “I will take the crown however I don’t think I will take that title. I prefer Princess. It is the Equestrian way is it not?”

“Whatever you want.”

From the castle steps, Echo walked to the waiting hordes. Changeling officers and soldiers looked on.

“I have defeated our monarch in single combat! By the ancient rites set forth since Queen Gossamer, I am your new monarch!” cried Echo as she exerted a booming mental and physical pressure in the minds of all changelings.

“All Hail Queen Larvi!” cried the changeling officers.

The roaring ranks cheered their new sovereign.

Den joined Echo atop Luna’s tower.

“We had our first date here,” Den smiled.

Echo’s attentions were elsewhere. “My mother’s army; all mine.” said Echo staring at the infantry formation array below. Then she looked at all of Equestria. “It all could be mine. When my mother’s spell rebounded, I absorbed a fair bit of power. I find that much power has a voice of its own. It beckons me for more.” Echo smiled and laughed hollowly. “Den, what would you do if I were to order them to continue what my mother had started? Would you join me and conquer the world?”

“The conditions to which I would be your Captain were clear.” Den said hesitantly.

“Would you fight me then?” asked Echo. “That bag of dispel powder in your pouch: do you still keep it?”

His eyes widened. “You knew?”

“For a while.”

“There is no doubt in my mind. Not anymore.” Den drew the pouch and gestured for Echo to receive it.

She placed the powder back in his pouch. “I want you to keep it, because I love and trust you. Should I ever become corrupted beyond salvation, I want you to use that against me.”

“I fell for you a long time ago. In that situation I’d rather fall again, wings folded, from this tower.”

She scolded angrily. “You promised you wouldn’t destroy yourself!”

“Killing you would kill me... Would you really put me in that spot after all that we’ve been through?” asked Den.

“Absolutely not, I couldn’t bear the thought of you gone. I see…” She lowered her head. “But who know what the future will hold?”

“Yeah there’s a ton of things that need fixing. I am not sure about any of them. However, we can face whatever is ahead tomorrow, together.” Den stepped back taking out the bag. He undid it and let the wind carry the sparkling dust away.

“But what of my people? If I relinquish everything and they are betrayed, I will have very well destroyed them myself.”

“Then don’t relinquish everything. I rather like one or two...or three of those shiny War Wings. We’re in the best terms to negotiate whatever our people need. We don’t have to conquer the world… maybe just a small part of it. Enough for the kids to play in some the verdant fields?” Den shot her a look of uncertainty. “Right, kids?”

“Yes it’s possible for us to have them.” Echo giggled, “Oh Den, I love you.”

“I love you.”

“You’re doing that on purpose aren’t you?” smiled Den.

“I am your Echo.” she giggled.

Their silhouettes against the sun they kissed.

One year later… a small fleet of airships, in clear blue skies, crosses a nameless sea. Aboard the flagship, Den and Echo walked through the corridors guarded with Changeling soldiers. Echo floated a clipboard between them.

Den rolled his pen to the side of his mouth. “The New Lunar Republic has called a peace summit, they want to create something called a League of Nations.”

Echo rolled her eyes. “A League? That sounds non-committal, why not a United Nations?”

“United that sounds a bit much, considering all the wars.” Den chuckled. “Anyway they’re not married to the name.”

She looked over the clipboard letter. She giggled. “Captain Blueberry Frost is the representing the Republic, we should prepare for an international incident.”

“Blue’s wouldn’t be so crass… I think… I hope?” Den found an envelope sandwiched between pages in his clipboard. He took the letter out and opened the seal. “Reagle has invited us to a baby shower. Zaza has given birth to a new hippogriff girl.”

“That’s sweet, who knew that was possible,” Echo then said wryly. “Okay, what else do they want?”

“They are asking for more military assistance. They say this nefarious Naponean character has escaped exile and marches on Prance. The United Griffin Kingdoms and Zebra Confederation have declared war.”

Echo rubbed her forehead. “It figures they’d want something.”

“What’s a little military aid between friends?” Den suggested.

“We can lend a battalion or two of our mages if they’ll give us access to the war criminals as fodder.”

They arrived at their destination to room with wide windows. There was a large couch in the center of the room with a red carpet that led to it. Den sighed and scribbled on the clipboard. “I suppose in all wars there will be criminals. Let’s see what’s next on the agenda...” He flipped through the pages onto the next issue. Den smiled warmly. Drawn inside a heart was ‘Echo + Den’. “Oh our anniversary.”

“Did you forget?”

Den gritted his teeth and grinned. “No?”

She shook her head. “Males. It’s alright though we’ve been incredibly busy.” Echo plopped down unto the large couch. She sighed in relief.

Den shifted the plush red pillows and found his seat next to her. “You could have gotten a regular throne.”

“I like our couch. A throne seats only one.” Echo licked her lips. “Plus you can’t do this on a throne!” She pounced atop of Den.

“You’re entirely too cute to be harbinger and bringer of the swarm.”

Echo cooed. “You’re too soft and huggable to be my Captain Consort.”

“Consort or Captain which one came first again?” Den chuckled kissing her neck.

Their kissing was interrupted by a cough. Arista poked her head through the doorway. “Hi, I was here…. and I’ll just go somewhere…. ugh else.”

Echo leaned in and whispered in Den’s ear. “I’ll give you our anniversary present later.” Echo straightened herself. “What is it Arista?”

Arista returned. “The Expeditionary force has returned,” said Arista.

Another Changeling entered the room. “Princess Larvi.” The Changeling bowed.

“Husk, we’re all friends here. Please call me Echo,” said Echo.

“Sorry, soldier caste habits are hard to break,” said Husk.

Den gazed at the scarred flank of the Changeling. “Did you encounter difficulty?”

Husk frowned. “The site was overrun with abominations and Quarray Eels… we lost a squad.”

“I am sorry Husk,” said Echo.

“I am glad when drawing volunteers; we drew from those without families or loved ones.”

Arista coughed when Husk mentioned loved ones. “How about you? You volunteered. Don’t you have one that loves you?”

The soldier Changeling turned toward the wingless former worker. “Arista, I…”

“Still we’re sorry for the loss.” said Den.

“Was your expedition successful?” asked Echo.

Husk bowed. “Indeed.” He floated from his satchel an old tome. “From the old hive’s archives, your father’s and mother’s journal, I hope it was worth it. None of our magic was able to reveal it secrets.”

Echo looked at the journal, her face flashed with pain. “Amorpheus and Chrysalis, my mother and father… the doorway to our future may lie in their past. I know so little of them only that they truly cared for each other.”

Den touched her hoof offering support. “We can read it together.”

She nodded. She touched the tome, green light bathed the tome, and the book opened. She gasped. “It was meant for me…”

Hole Hearted

by Akashic Brony

Chapter 1 First Encounter

Chapter 2 A Late Date

Chapter 3 The Horror

Chapter 4 Love?

Chapter 5 Loyalty?

Chapter 6 Invasion!

Chapter 7 Flight

Chapter 8 Despair

Chapter 9 Shadow Valley

Chapter 10 Gathering Storm

Chapter 11 Ill Met in Moonlight

Chapter 12 Shapeless Dream

Chapter 13 Ascendency

Chapter 14 Sun Swallower

Chapter 15 Doubts

Chapter 16 Forging Through Fear

Chapter 17 The Whole Truth

Chapter 18 Dream's End and Beginning