Freedom of Flame and Shadow
Chapter One: Freedom of Flame and Shadow.
The Hedge was in an uproar, two changelings had escaped for the first time in centuries, taking separate paths, both desperate to escape. One running out of fear of being captured, the other simply to find an exit sooner. Eventually their paths intersected and the resulting crash between the two was inevitable....
Okay just gotta make it through this clearing and I’m home free.’thought the changeling in red
Stupid Dark Librarian and his paper servants..bastards almost took my arm off thought the changeling cloaked in shadows.
As the red changeling reached the clearing, he came to a stop trying to decide on his next course of action when, ...Why do I smell learning?
The dark changeling burst through into the clearing as well, more preoccupied by the creatures made out of what seemed to be paper mache chasing him and soon ran directly into something fiery and red.
“Oh gods why!” Exclaimed the red changeling after being knocked over, by the source of the learning stench.
“Why now!?” yelled the dark changeling having had something or someone, interrupt his escape from the paper servants. Both changelings rose to their feet only to notice they had been surrounded by 3 or 4 of the servants.
“Well isn’t this just peachy?” announced the dark changeling looking around at what he would call a “fucked situation”.
“These things causing you problems?” Asked the fellow in red.
“More than you know” answered the dark one, holding his bleeding left arm with his right.
“Don’t worry bro, I got this.” declared the red changeling. Standing up he reached into his pants pocket and took out a match, with a quick flick of his wrist it lit, and so did the ‘army’ of paper.
The dark one was stunned for a moment, before he laughed as loud as he could, his voice slightly distorted by some unknown means, “Damn that clears up my worries, thanks for the assist my newfound friend”
“No problem bud.” The red fellow noticed the dark one clutching his arm. “You hurt?” he asked concerned for his health.
The dark one looked down to his arm with a slight grimace, “yea, one of those things got the jump on me on my way out of my Keeper’s domain, nothing I can’t handle though,” The dark one stood back up to his full height and released his grip on his arm which continued to bleed.
“Well I have some medical training and some medkits if you’d like.” Offered the red fellow, pointing to the large backpack on his back.
The dark one pondered the offer for a bit, “how the hell did you get time to pack supplies for your escape?”
“Ha, I didn’t, John did it for me.” Said the red fellow with a smile.
The dark ones expression twisted into one of confusion, “John?”
“Oh! I forgot, he doesn’t really use his real name anymore, I think you might know him better as....Gilgamesh, the Smith of the Crimson Forge.” Said the red fellow, having some trouble remembering such a strange name.
“Gilgamesh eh? Let’s see if I can recall him,” The dark one searched his mind for all Fae and True Fae his Keeper had ever had contact with. “Ah yes Gilgamesh, the changeling turned True Fae, killer of Chrasis the Captor.... Octurose the Auctioneer, and Vulcan the Smith of Dragons, his former Keeper. Him and my Keeper have had many dealings, mainly in books about killing and disposing of True Fae and in books of smithing cold iron.”
“Oh!,” The red fellow removed his bag, reached inside and removed a silver book. “This book?” He asked. “John gave it to me for my birthday.”
The dark one looked at the book with a mixture of hatred and immediate need. “One day I’ll have to borrow that book from you, I have an old grudge to settle”
“Keeper giving you troubles eh? Yeah, John told me all about what other fae do to people, I’m just a lucky one, I could help you if you want, I know how to make cold iron, hell, I even know how to make a scythe out of the stuff, you have any idea how hard it is to make both a blade and a rod out of that stuff?”
The dark one reached into his robe and pulled out a book containing information about smithing, “Somewhat yes, but not nearly enough, and I thank you for your offer but I already have a weapon,” With a snap of his fingers a scythe appeared, upon the dark one’s back “And yes, the blade is made of cold iron, how unlucky of my Keeper to just leave this lying around, his first screw up in years and look what it gets him.” With another snap the weapon disappeared just as quickly.
“Cool, I use a sword myself, any type will do, but I prefer a katana. I’m not gonna bring her out right now, she’s sleeping and doesn’t like to be woken up unless there’s something I need her to kill and or maim.”
The dark one nodded his head in confirmation, “It’s good to know I’m not the only one with an ally in these dark times I suppose..” Just as he finished his line, A black crow swooped down from above the hedge landing on his shoulder.
The crow turned it’s head to look down at the dark one and opened it beak as if it were going to speak. “Noctus, we must leave many more servants approach”
“Cool, talking crow, never seen one of those before.” Said the red fellow in wonder. “He’s right, we shouldn’t stay here for much longer.” He said putting his things away and his backpack back on. “I’m...strange, I don’t seem to remember my old name...no matter, call me Beary. It’s short for Bhrionnú Lámh, it’s Forge of Hands in Irish.” stated Beary.
“Well it’s nice to meet you Beary, call me Noctus Nyx, I gave up my mortal name when I was taken.” Nyx turned and began to search for a way out, “Now let’s get out of here, before more of those paper bastards show up, shall we? Corvo, keep an eye out while we make our escape,”
The crow launched himself from Nyx’s shoulder and took flight once more, “with pleasure”
“Okay, John said that once I made it here there should be a window to earth, he said that it’s the only way out for days out here.” Said Beary, looking around.
“Yes I know the one, it’s the portal that hides its presence from all but the most observant...” Nyx began to search the surroundings for even the slightest glimmer of light, “We have to find it if we plan on leaving here in one piece”
“Any ideas how long we’ve been gone? John said that time doesn’t matter here and that we could have been gone for two days or two years.” Beary remarked, with some worry in his voice.
“He’s correct, any amount of time could have passed, either way my old life is gone, I’ve spent close to forty years here, I can’t return, not now...” Nyx declared with a hint of sorrow.
“Really? Man, that sucks, I’ve been here for about 15 years, hope nothing changed much. Hey, you know about the internet?” Might as well shed some light on ‘current’ events.’Thought Beary.
“I was taken in the year 1801, I’ve been keeping up with the time through the books that my Keeper brought in from day to day, I’ve heard of this “internet” but never seen it for myself” Eventually Nyx managed to spot a small glow coming from a distant area of the hedge, much thicker and filled with thorn bushes, “I do believe I’ve found our way out” Notus confirmed with some hope.
“Cool, let’s get out of here, the longer I stay here, the more I miss John.” Said Beary.
“I can honestly say I will never get used to a changeling MISSING their Keeper” Nyx said with a shrug putting extra emphasis on “missing” and began to head for the portal “Now let’s leave before more of those servants show up”
Both Beary and Nyx made a beeline for the slight glow in the distance, at the same time a rustling could be heard coming from all parts of the Hedge, the paper servants were beginning to grow close. Both Nyx and Beary increased their pace, desperately trying to reach the exit before the servants reached them, soon the exit became visible enough to make out what it was.
“Is that a stained glass window?” questioned Nyx.
“Looks like one.” Stated Beary.
The rustling from the hedge began to grow louder, “No time to question it, just smash through it!” Nyx quickened his pace, going as fast as he possibly could.
“Too bad, it looks nice!” Yelled Beary, running for his life. They reached the glass at about the same time, Corvo swooping down to pass through with them, Nyx jumped and kicked out with his foot, using one hand to cover his eyes, Beary crossed his arms to shield his eyes and jumped.
“You won’t get away with this! yelled Cadence, Twilight and her friends will-” she was interrupted by the sound of the door opening and 6 ponies being escorted in by changelings.
Chrysalis looked back to Cadence with a smug grin, “You were saying?”
“One way or another we’ll stop you Chrysalis!” Twilight announced, showing that despite all that had happened, she still held some hope that they would win.
“Oh?” Chrysalis closed the distance between herself and Twilight, “and just how do you plan to stop me? Your ruler is defeated, the elements are outside your reach and now,” one sudden flash later and Twilight and her friends were stuck in place just like Cadence.. “you are trapped in place just like your ruler and that harlot,” with her last word she looked back over at Cadence.
“Honestly it would take a miracle for you to win,” Crysalis took a quick look around the room and pointed at a random window,”Something like a creature, or even two, breaking through that window and forcing us to retreat would be an example” And at that exact moment, the impossible happened. Two creatures, one wrapped in shadows, the other in fire smashed through the same window that Chrysalis just so happened to be pointing towards. The portal closing behind them just as they made it through.
“Freedom!!!” Cheered Beary victoriously pumping his fists in the air, while Nyx simply wore a smile of satisfaction before cheering just as loudly as Beary.
“Yes!!! We fucking made it out WOO!!!!” yelled Nyx.
“Bug-human things!!!!!!” Shrieked Beary, pointing at the insectoid equines-human hybrids. This is when Nyx’s curious side kicked in. Nyx slowly began making his way towards the closest, and largest of the insectoids.
“Hmm never read about anything like this..” Nyx slowly made his way around the creature as it watched Nyx with a critical eye. “A human like body, exoskeleton, fangs, membrane wings, and a sickly blue mane and tail....just what are you? Some kind of new hobgoblin?”
The creature seemed almost offended, “Bug thing? Hobgoblin? I am Queen Chrysalis of the Changelings and you will know your place!” in the same moment that she finished speaking her horn lit up and fired a green beam aimed towards Nyx, who moved out of the way rather quickly just barely missing being hit. Soon after he turned on his heels to face the Chrysalis again, this time allowing himself to examine the entire room. There was only one word to put how Nyx felt into words.
“What.”
“Nyx, she said she’s the queen of the changelings. They must have a different meaning for the word.” Beary pointed out. “Should we show them the politically correct meaning?”
Nyx snapped out of his trance and turned his back to Chrysalis “Hmm ...we could...but let’s hold off on it ‘till we know if it’s our last resort, no sense in ruining all the surprises at once right?”
“I suppose you have a point, but by the looks of it, we found ourselves in a villain's closing monologue, you can tell by the brightly colored anthro-ponies bound to the floor and the way she presents herself, also by the looks of the ‘changelings’ it looks like we pissed them off.” Nyx once again took another look around the room, this time noticing that the ‘changelings’ were in fact very angry, while the bright colored equines simply were staring with shock between Chrysalis and himself. Nyx slowly turned and looked back at Chrysalis.
“A couple of questions if I may, Queen Chrysalis?”
Chrysalis seemed to still be on edge as if ready to fire another beam at Nyx, “...Ask them quickly”
“Alright, one; is this your kingdom we are currently standing in?” The question managed to make Chrysalis laugh a little bit.
“Not yet, but it shall be soon”
‘Strike One’ Nyx thought to himself “Next question; what do you intend to do with the ‘people’ of this kingdom once it is under your control?”
“Easy, make them into loyal slaves for all of MY subjects” Chrysalis was smiling by this point, Nyx was not.
‘Strike Two’ “Third, Was invading this land the only choice for your people? Were there any other options open to you?”
Chrysalis had to stop and think for this one, putting a hand against her chin as she thought. “I suppose there was, but what importance do they have now? This whole kingdom will be mine, and it’s people will serve me!
‘Strike Three’ “Final Question; how long should I give you?”
“What?”
“You know, how long should I give you before I turn you into a crying, broken shell?” At this point Nyx’s smile had returned but it seemed...wrong.
“You would dare threaten me?” Chrysalis’ anger had returned ten fold.
It was at this point that Beary moved over to where the ponies were bound. “Hello, I’m Beary, and you all might want to close your eyes.” Said Beary, both introducing himself and warning the ponies.Most of the ponies took Beary’s advice, closing their eyes, all except for the purple, orange and cyan ones, the white one hanging in what resembled a cocoon and the two on what appeared to be a podium for a wedding.
“Oh, I’m sorry but that wasn't a threat,” Nyx’s smile widened, “It was a promise. And I’ve decided on ten seconds, you have that long to retreat with your entire force or face the consequences. Ten.” Chrysalis fired off another laser which Nyx easily moved around this time having expected such an attack “Nine.” Chrysalis charged forth to physically hit Nyx but again he managed to dodge out of the way, his years of running and dodging all manners of objects his Keeper threw at him finally paying off “Eight” This process repeated itself a couple of times until finally Chrysalis launched herself as fast as she could straight at Nyx. Who easily caught her wrist mid-swing “Zero, sorry to say but your time, and my patience, has run out.” Nyx’s grip on Chrysalis’ wrist tightened, “Darkness, Autumn; hear me and grant me the power as stated in our Contracts.” The room’s shadows seemed to grow darker and the air grew colder. A ‘kaw’ from a black crow sitting on top of one of the windows only added to the intended effect. Which was to put as much possible fear into those surrounding and within the room.
Chrysalis then finally looked into the eyes of this “Nyx” what she saw terrified her more than she thought possible. Inside this “Nyx’s” eyes was nothing. No hope, no anger, just...nothing. As if somepony had ripped out any feeling he could have had and replaced it with a forever consuming darkness.
“Now...it’s time to hold true on my promise.” A feeling of fear ran through Chrysalis, some sixth sense of hers told her to get as far away from this creature as she could. Her wings began flapping and that’s when she realized something important. This creature still had ahold of her wrist, and was not letting go anytime soon. “Creeping Dread..” With those words Chrysalis, along with almost everyone in the room felt a shudder of fear work it’s way through them. The shadows seemed to grow larger and every tiny noise was another possible monster creeping up from behind. “Witches’ Intuition..” This time Chrysalis felt as if her mind was being searched, but for what she was unsure, it was just so hard to think...
“So THAT’s what you’re afraid of huh? Well then....how would you like to hear a little story?” Again Chrysalis attempted to free herself from Nyx’s hold, trying desperately to fire another beam at him, which she couldn’t work up the concentration to do, so she instead fell into simply slamming her fist repeatedly into different parts of his body in a vain attempt to hurt him but her punches were weak and shallow. Nyx winced once or twice but the twisted smile was ever present on his face.
Slowly, he moved himself closer to her, bringing his lips right next to her ear. He whispered something that no one else could hear. “This is the story of how a sad little girl was forced to become a monster...” and almost immediately, Chrysalis’ eyes jerked open, if she wasn’t scared before, she was now. Her whole body shook in fear, almost afraid of the story that was to come, one that she knew far too well...
“What’s...what’s he doing to her?” The purple equine asked, looking between Nyx and Beary.
“He’s telling her a story, simple as that.” Stated Beary.
The purple equine again looked back at Nyx, “I’ve never seen a story have that kind of effect, there must be more to it than just “telling a story”, what are you two anyway? I’ve never seen or read about any creatures like you before.”
“Well I guess times really haven’t changed all that much, and yet they have as well, but I don’t see any harm in telling you what we are, but, only if you do the same. I’m Beary and I’m a Changeling Elemental of the Fire-Heart kith. And Mr.Lovecraft over there is Nyx, he’s a Changeling Darkling but I’m still not sure which kith he calls his own yet.” Explained Beary as simply as he could.
“Changelings? So wait are you wearing some kind of disguise? I thought changelings could only turn into something the same basic shape as them?” The purple equine’s face was somewhere between confused and fascinated.
“Well we’re not the same kind of Changelings as they are, we existed first. I would say that our kind has been around for... ever? I’m not sure really. I would have to know how long we’ve been gone to get a real number. Well, I told you who we are, now it’s your turn.”
“Right, I’m Twilight Sparkle, and I’m a unicorn,” She began to point to each of her friends, naming them off as she went. “And up there,” she pointed again to the large white equine with both wings and a horn, “Is Princess Celestia, and she’s an alicorn. Given the circumstances, I would say it’s nice to meet you two.”
“Well the pleasure is all mine, I haven’t really talked to anyone besides my friend John for about 15 years.”
“15 years? That’s an awful long time to be stuck with only one other pony to talk to.” Their attention was drawn back to Nyx and Chrysalis when they heard the faint sound of crying. Standing over and still holding the wrist of an all but fetal position Chrysalis, stood Nyx, staring down at her as she wept out of pure fear. His smile was no longer present, only a frown, and an expression of pity.
“Oh look, he finished his story. You guys should be able to move now.” Beary began to move towards Nyx. “Hey man, it go well?”
Nyx looked up from Chrysalis and back over to Beary, “Yea for the most part, she’ll be like that for at least a couple days. Oh look, her guards are angry.”
The changelings within the room all began snarling and slowly creeping towards them, fully intending to protect their queen.”You think they’re flammable?” Asked Beary.
“They ARE at least somewhat like a bug, so yes I would assume so.” Nyx answered.
Beary reached into his pocket and pulled out his match book.”Only four left, gonna need to get more once I can.” And with a flick of his wrist both the match and the changelings lit ablaze.
The changelings screamed in agony. Watching this display of fire Nyx clapped a few times and whistled “I get it now, took me till the second try but that is a good use of power, using a spark alongside a burst of Glamour to spread flames? Ingenious.” At this point all the other ponies in the room had averted their eyes, since just about no normal person/pony wants to see burning flesh.
“Yeah, just something I came-up with a while back.” Replied Beary still looking at his near empty matchbook. The remaining changelings that hadn’t been burned decided that this was a losing battle and quickly retreated outside. Informing the rest of the changeling army to make a full retreat as their queen and her elite guards had be defeated. All of this happened while Nyx and Beary helped free the ponies from their bindings. When everything had calmed down the ponies finally were able to look these two strangers over and take in their appearance.
Nyx was older, but not incredibly old, he appeared to be around the age of 30 if one had to guess. His long ink-black hair ended just above his eyes and flowed down to about the middle of his back. He wore a long black trench coat made out of a material that seemed unnatural, the same could be said for the white t-shirt, black dress pants and red shoes he wore beneath the coat. His eyes shone a bright red color.
Beary looked around 19, but he seemed far more mature than that. He was very pale, and wore a red t-shirt with a pair of blue jeans. He had black running shoes on and a large burn scar on his right arm. His hair was charcoal black and he had hazel eyes. What was strangest about him though, was that the air seemed warmer around him.
After freeing the princess everyone was quiet, not quite sure what to do, until Beary decided to break the silence. “So, now what?” He asked.
His answer came from that of a regal sounding voice, “Now,” Both Beary and Nyx turned to the source of the voice, which was the large white Alicorn, named Celestia if Beary remembered correctly. “You explain exactly where you came from, and why you’re here.”
Author's Note
This story is being written between myself and my friend Immortal Inventor here on FIM, we hope you enjoy it, if you think there's something we could do better, tell us in the comments section, and if you do like it, please give the like button a click, if not, please tell us what you didn't like about it, so that we may learn to improve ourselves.
Chapter 2: Of Questions and Masks
Immediately following the defeat of the army of “changelings” the wedding had continued with Beary and Nyx sitting in as guests of honor for saving the day. Queen Chrysalis had been taken away to the dungeons after having both an anti-magic ring and an anti-flight harness attached to her, the entire time she remained in almost the exact same state, cradled in the fetal position refusing to even look in the same direction as Nyx.
Both of the Changelings had expressions of shock upon witnessing the one known as Rainbow Dash doing something called a “Sonic Rainboom.” Soon after the wedding had ended, and most of the guests had left, Nyx, Beary, the ponies, the princess and a new arrival, a midnight blue alicorn, called Luna, were now inside the castle within the throne room. They had all decided that now would be the best time to ask any and all questions they had for the two mysterious beings and thank them for all the help they had given them since they arrived.
“So is there something in particular you wanted to know, or did you just want everything?” Asked Beary eyeing the guards in the spread throughout the throne room, Nyx remained silent as he did the same.
“Yes, I would like to know everything, but there are a few key things I would like to know about the both of you first.” Responded Princess Celestia.
“Such as?” Nyx said, now taking interest in the ponies and their princess.
“Well first and foremost, what manner of creature are you two?”
“Changelings your highness, true changelings, not the fakes that crashed the wedding, but the ones they got the name from.” Answered Beary in a very nonchalant tone.
“More specifically, I am a Darkling, and he is an Elemental. I have what is referred to as a dual kith, meaning I am of the Antiquarian and Nightsinger kiths, he is of the Fire-Heart kith.” Nyx said explaining in more detail what Beary had already explained once before.
“So that’s what kith you are, makes sense with your keeper being a librarian and all.” Stated Beary, happy to finally know what kith his friend was. Nyx simply offered a nod and grunt of confirmation. Twilight had been trying her best to hold herself back from letting loose the tidal wave of questions she had for these two. But upon hearing all these tidbits of information, the floodgates finally broke.
“I can’t take it anymore! Where did you two come from? How did you end up in the wedding hall? What’s a kith? What-” she was cut short by an orange hand placed squarely over her mouth.
“Sorry about that, Twi here just can’t pass up a chance to learn new things.” the orange mare smiled sheepishly.
“Before we ask any more questions I think it would be best if we all introduced ourselves.” Announced Celestia, “My name is Celestia, Princess of the Sun, it is nice to meet the both of you.” Taking a moment to look her over, Nyx and Beary were surprised to see that she stood around seven feet tall, easily towering over the other ponies. She had a bright white coat of fur, and a multicolored, ethereal mane, which blew in a non-existent breeze. Her clothes seemed fitting for a Princess, as she wore a long white and gold dress,across the chest portion of which, the image of the sun was depicted. The dress ended just above her hooves, which were covered by golden shoes.
Before either of them could respond, the other alicorn mare introduced herself as well. She had midnight blue fur and a starry mane and tail that blew in a non-existent breeze just like Princess Celestia’s multicolored mane and tail did. Unlike Celestia, she wore a black and silver dress which held the image of the moon in the same place Celestia’s held the image of the sun. “And I am Luna, Princess of the Moon and co-ruler of Equestria next to my sister, Celestia.”
Nyx gave a deep bow before speaking. “My full name is Noctorious Nyxus but I always shorten it to Noctus Nyx, and all of you can simply refer to me as Nyx and it is an honor to meet the two of you.”
“Hello your highnesses, it’s an honor to meet you. You may call me Beary.” Said Beary, bowing next to Nyx.
The orange mare took her hand off of Twilight’s mouth and made her way over and shook hands with Beary. “Nice ta’ meet ya tha’ name’s Applejack.” What Applejack wore was less formal than the Princesses’ dresses. She wore a white t-shirt with a picture of 3 small apples on it with an open orange flannel vest, a pair of greenish blue shorts and a pair of boots designed specifically for hooves and her blonde mane and tail were both done up into large ponytails.
“It’s very nice to meet you Applejack.” Beary replied. After a few seconds they both pulled their hands back as Applejack made her way back over Nyx and shook his hand before heading back to her princess’s side by her friends . ’That Beary has a strong grip, wonder where he gets all that strength...’
As Nyx turned to face Beary to ask his opinion on Applejack, he was taken off his feet when he was tackled by a pink blur. “Hi! My name’s Pinkie Pie but you can just call me Pinkie and your name is Noctus but you already know that so I’m just gonna call you Nocty because that’s easier to say and now that we’re friends IcanthrowyouandBearyawelcometoEquestriaandthanksforsavinguspartywhereyoucanlearnallabouteveryponyandhaveallsortsoffunand-”
Nyx had managed to wrench one of his arms loose from under Pinkie and cover her mouth even though it was clear she was still speaking beneath his hand. Now he looked to be on the edge of exploding, whether in anger or panic it was unclear. “Silence pink one! Thy words doth bring my mind pain!” When he was sure that she had stopped, he slowly brought his hand back. “Now sorry about that and it’s nice to meet you as well Pinkie”
Pinkie stood up and offered Nyx her hand who gladly took it and stood up. Nyx dusted himself off as he looked over the hyper energy ball that was Pinkie. She absolutely screamed pink, her coat, mane and tail were all a bright vibrant pink color. She wore a bright pink shirt that was darker in color than her actual fur color, on the front of the shirt were three balloons; two blue and one yellow. She wore a pair of dark blue half jeans with a pair of striped blue and white stockings. All-in-all it looked like patch work to Nyx. Pinkie slowly made her way back over to her friends after shaking hands with her ‘newest friend’.
“Well then...” Beary looked to the ponies around him. “Who’s next?”
The next one to introduce herself was a cyan mare with a rainbow colored mane and tail. She wore a two color white and blue flight jacket,the front was white from her stomach up to her chest and the rest was shade of blue darker than her fur on the back was the picture of a cloud with a rainbow lightning bolt shooting out of it. It hung open revealing a tight black t-shirt obviously meant for an athlete. She also wore a pair of black jean shorts and a pair fingerless silver gloves. She flew up into the air and followed that up with a quick spin “Nice to meet you, the name’s Rainbow Dash, the fastest flier in all of Equestria! I assume you’ve heard of me before?” Her response was two blank stares and the shake of two heads causing the cyan mare to frown.
“Wait! You’re the one that did that sonic rainboom thing right?!” Asked Beary.
Rainbow’s smile returned in full, “You know it! It was pretty awesome wasn’t it!”
Nyx nodded, “Yes, I can truthfully say I’ve never seen or read about anything like it.”
“No duh, cause I’m the only pegasus that can pull it off!”
“Well I’ll admit, that’s one impressive talent” Nyx confirmed as Beary nodded in agreement
“Thanks, you’re pretty cool looking yourself, not as cool as me but still.” she did a few more flips in the air before dive bombing back to the ground by her friends.
The next one to make her way forward carried herself with grace and elegance, at first Nyx thought her to be a noble of some form while Beary simply thought she was going to be a snob. She had a pure white coat and a dark purple mane and tail which were both styled into curls. She wore a dark purple dress that matched her mane and tail perfectly, it went from her shoulders all the way to almost touching the ground, one of her legs remained within the confines of the dress while the other was partly revealed. At the end of her dress was a small repeating pattern of three diamonds. “Hello darlings, my name is Rarity, it is a pleasure to meet the both of you.” and with that she did a small curtsy and returned to her friends side.
The next to introduce herself was Twilight, with a small wave towards Beary, she walked over to Nyx “It’s nice to meet you, I’m Twilight Sparkle.”
“And you as well, Miss Sparkle.” and with that they shook hands. Which gave Nyx time to look her over as well. Her fur was a light purple color and her mane and tail an even darker shade of purple with a single stripe of pink through both. Like Pinkie and Rainbow, She wore a shirt a shade darker than her own coat of fur, almost the same as her mane and tail color, with a pair of dark navy blue jeans that ended just above her hooves. On the shirt over her chest was a pink 6 pointed star.
“It’s good to meet you under better circumstances Twilight.” Beary announced from where he stood.
Twilight nodded and smiled in agreement. “I still have quite a few questions for the both of you once we have some spare time.”
As Twilight made her way back over, Nyx counted in his head the number of Twilight’s friends and how many he had seen in the wedding hall. “There’s one of you missing.”
Applejack sighed, “She’s not missin’ partner, she’s right here” She stepped out of the way revealing a pale yellow and pink maned mare, who upon being revealed, let out a small ‘eep’ and hid behind another one of her friends, this time it was Twilight who looked behind herself at the extremely shy pony.
“Come on out Fluttershy, these two aren’t all that scary once you get to know them.” and slowly but surely, ‘Fluttershy’ came out from behind Twilight and waved a small hello to Beary and Nyx.
“H-hello...it’s nice to meet you.” was all she managed to squeak out at a pitch barely above a whisper.
Nyx smiled as an old memory came to his mind, and made his way over to Twilight and Fluttershy before crouching down to be at eye level with the already curled up mare. Nyx looked her over quickly before speaking. She wore a forest green sweater with a light pink blouse. The blouse a a picture of three small butterflies near the hip. “Hi there, I’m called Noctus Nyx, but you can just call me Nyx.” Again Nyx smiled, but unlike any he had given before, this was one that shone with kindness, it was one that contained all the love of an elder sibling. Slowly Fluttershy came out from behind her long mane and gave a half smile in return.
“H-Hi..I’m Fluttershy”
“It’s nice to meet you Fluttershy, that’s my friend Beary right over there” Nyx threw an arm over his shoulder and pointed at the Changeling in question who simply waved in return.
“Hi, Fluttershy”
Fluttershy gave a small wave in return, “Hi Beary”
Twilight, and most of her friends, looked on with a bit of astonishment at how Nyx had managed to bring Fluttershy out of her shell so easily. “How did you do that?”
Nyx slowly stood up and offered his hand to Fluttershy and helped her back to her hooves. “I used to have a little sister who was just like Fluttershy here.” Nyx smiled down at Fluttershy. who smiled slightly back up at him, before making his way back to stand by Beary. “I suppose you could say she used to bring out the best in me.”
Once again Princess Celestia spoke up, “Now that the introductions are out of the way, shall we move on?” She looked down at Twilight before continuing, “Go ahead Twilight, I'll let you be the one to ask these two any questions you might have.” Twilight looked up at Celestia with a giddy expression on her face.
“Really!? Oh thank you so much Princess!” yelled Twilight as she turned to face Nyx and Beary, the tidal wave of questions about to be unleashed again. “Well I guess I’ll start simple, can you two explain what exactly you are?”
“Of course” Nyx said walking forward, “We are Changelings, and, in order to prevent confusion, spell that with an uppercase ‘C’ we have been around a lot longer than those other changelings, spell that one with a undercase ‘c’ which are obviously are nothing like us, well at least not most of us.”
Twilight expression was one of complete confusion however a quill and parchment held in some kind of magical grasp showed that she was obviously writing down everything Nyx said. “Mind explaining that a little better?”
Nyx sighed, “It’s like trying to tell a hobgoblin something complex,okay, lets start from the top.” Nyx took a few steps back and gestured at himself. A Changeling is any mortal, you, me or someone else. That gets pulled or wanders into a place called, “The Hedge” put simply it is not a place any of you should have to see. Once there, if a mortal is unlucky enough to get found by a Fae, they are captured and used as nothing more than an object, a possession-” Most of the ponies gasped at this but Nyx quickly added, “- however some are lucky enough to find a kind Fae who would lead them out of danger or take them in as an ally or servant.” Nyx then looked at Beary, but whether it was a look of envy or friendship was unknown.” Over time the natural energy of the Fae who captured the mortal, also known as a Keeper, and the energy of The Hedge changes the mortal, transforming them into something, well depending on who you ask, something more than mortal...or something twisted and a hollow shell of what it once was.”
Those in attendance listened in silence as Nyx explained and now looked upon both Beary and Nyx with a certain amount of pity in their eyes. Finally Twilight spoke up after a long silence, “So, right now, how we see you..is different than what you look like when you were born?” Her response was a shake of Nyx’s head.
“What you are seeing right now is our masks, I assume you see me with..” Nyx trailed off as he thought about what he once looked like compared to his current form“....with long black hair, red eyes, about 6 feet tall, wearing a large trench coat with a white undershirt, black pants and a pair of red shoes, around the age of 30 or so, correct?”
Twilight nodded but was still confused, “So, that’s not your real form?” and like before, her answer was a simple nod of the head.
“This is my “mask” if you will, it is the form that all of your minds can comprehend of myself. I could drop the mask and you would see me as I truly am, but I will not for fear of...horribly scaring you all.”
“Oh, I’m sure it’s not that bad” Twilight announced. ‘I mean we've faced the spirit of disharmony and Nightmare Moon after all’
“Believe me when I tell you this Twilight,” Nyx looked deathly serious, “I have no idea what Beary’s true form is, but mine alone will be enough to turn you all into scared children. I’m not saying this as a threat, but as a clearly labeled warning, I WILL NOT under any circumstance, show you my true form.”
“Honestly, I have no clue what I really look like.” Announced Beary.
“I do and I refuse to submit anyone or anything to it.” Answered Nyx.
This time, Celestia was the one to speak, “Come now it can’t possibly be as bad as you say it is. I must ask that you show us, its the only way we can be sure we can trust what you’re saying is true” Nyx looked up at the Princess and knew any argument would be pointless. Letting out a sigh he took more than a couple steps back, almost putting the entire distance of the room between him and the others.
“As I said before, This sight is not meant for those not of The Hedge, and even some of them couldn't bear to look.” Only for an instant, and no longer...
Nyx stood up straight and relaxed all of his limbs, and slowly his form began to change. More accurately, the air around him did, the entire room felt, cold and depressing. Next, surprisingly was the smell about the room. Almost like opening a really, really old book and the smell that comes with being in a truly old library. The final thing that happened ensured the ponies that they may have opened a literal pandora’s box that they could not close. The entire room went dark, almost as if the sun had been blocked out and no light could enter the throne room.
The group of 6 friends crowded together, having not been prepared for such a sudden change. Celestia seemed to be the most disturbed, seeing the light from her sun so easily taken away, while Luna stood stock still with her eyes shrunk to pinpricks, flashbacks of another who wanted to do exactly what this ‘Nyx’ seemed to do without trying, entered her mind.
The next thing that happened, was Nyx’s actual physical form began to change, first his skin changed color to be a deep, obsidian black, even darker than the shadows that now filled the room. Next, long black horns grew out from his forehead and curved backwards to end behind his head. His fingers lengthened and sharpened, and a second pair of eyes appeared above his first. He stretched as he seemingly grew taller, before standing at around six feet, he now easily stood at seven, almost eight feet tall, appearing to be just as tall as the Princesses. Sharp fangs replaced his regular teeth and runic and occult symbols danced about him, moving from place to place before suddenly disappearing and reappearing. A haunting melody filled the air and seemed to add a sort of allure to the whole room. All this together was horrifying enough, just when they thought for sure the transformation was complete and it couldn’t get any scarier, the last part revealed itself.
His four eyes opened.
Now normally this would not be something scary but on top of everything else that was happening to induce fear, this was perhaps the most terrifying thing that could have happened. For you see, his eyes had changed as well, no longer were they the same as the ponies’ eyes, now they were one solid color, a pure blood red to be exact. It was impossible to tell where exactly Nyx was looking as his pupils had disappeared. But something told the ponies and Beary, that he was looking directly at them. The ponies and their princesses were all but frozen in fear, but even that was suddenly broken when a distorted voice broke them out of the seeming trance Nyx’s form had them under.
“This is the form you so desperately wanted to see, and now you understand why I was so against revealing it.” and then as if it had all been a dream, the shadows faded, Nyx’s form returned to the one they had all grown used to and the eerie music and symbols disappeared and faded.
Beary did a low whistle to show how impressed he was. “That almost scared me a little.”
Nyx looked over at Beary and cracked his neck, “Like I said, not even some changelings can stand to look at my form.” Nyx then reluctantly turned to look at the ponies, and immediately wished he hadn’t. They all had expressions of different levels of fear, The two princesses were standing closer together but were obviously frightened. The other six ponies had grouped together and were holding onto one another for moral support. Nyx looked to the ground unwilling to look at their faces.
Beary looked towards the ponies angrily, “So let me get this straight, you’re all scared because of how he looked, and yet you were the one’s who talked him into it with him WARNING you that it would scare you. And now because he was a little freaky looking you’re gonna treat him differently?”
Beary’s speech had managed two things; the first being was pulling the ponies out of their state of fear and then putting them into a state of shame. Mainly towards themselves because they realized everything Beary had said was true. Twilight was the first to speak up after a long silence. “We’re really sorry Nyx, what Beary said is true, we basically forced you to show us what you looked like even though you warned us that it would be too much....do you think there’s anyway you could forgive us?”
“I-I...” Nyx had no idea what to say, he still refused to bring his eyes up from the ground, he was sure they still had expressions of fear, ones he didn’t want to see, ones he didn’t need-
Nyx was suddenly brought out of his thoughts by a small tugging on his sleeve, he looked to his right to see what it was. Where he found himself looking right into the eyes of Fluttershy. “We really are sorry Nyx, we didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. Y-You were r-really scary looking, but I know you are a good pony on the inside...” The next thing she did was wrap her arms around Nyx and gave him a hug which after a few seconds he returned with a small smile on his face.
“Thank you Fluttershy, I think I can forgive you all quite easily now.”
Fluttershy nodded before gingerly letting go of Nyx and walking back over to stand with her friends, who after witnessing Fluttershy’s courage were all back to being their regular selves. It was then that everyone noticed that the day was getting late as most of the ponies in the room let out a small yawn.
Celestia looked upon the Changelings and ponies alike with a small smile. “I do believe it is time for all of us to sleep. All of you can stay here in the castle for the night, and we can talk more in the morning.”
Luna nodded to her older sister, “Yes sister, it appears it is almost time for us to raise the moon. I must bid you all goodnight.” She left soon after that, off to somewhere Nyx and Beary had not the slightest clue.
The Princess of the Sun looked back at Nyx and Beary, “There are guest rooms in a further part of the castle. I would assume you two would like to rest for the night somewhere comfortable?
“Yes please, it’s been a long day, and I’d really like some sleep.” Said Beary
Nyx nodded his head in agreement, “It is getting late, perhaps you could show us to these guest rooms?” Nyx said as he looked around at the assembled ponies.
Celestia looked towards Twilight, “Do you think you could show them the way to the guest rooms? Other rooms have already been prepared for you and your friends.”
“Of course, right this way boys” and Nyx and Beary were led out by an enthusiastic Twilight.
Before long, the shout of a confused Nyx reached the ears of those still in the throne room.“Wait....DID SHE SAY RAISE THE MOON?!”
Author's Note
Well there's chapter 2, took long enough. I hope you enjoyed it, if you did please like, and if you want favorite it too. This story will follow the show as close as our plans allow. See you all next chapter.
