Allies of Equestria

by Shadowlux100

Chapters

The Changeling
The Day Off
The First Step
The Shadow
The Meeting

The Changeling

"Rise and shine. It’s your shift."

Courageous Shield woke semi-gently at his captain's voice. He had forgotten he had the night watch.

"Aye sir." he grumbled as he climbed out of his bed.

"Your mane is a bit messy." his captain smiled.

"It happens." Shield responded.

Courageous Shield was a strong, white coated pegasus with a short, brown and blond mane and tail, and a red and purple shield for a cutie mark. He took advantage of his strength by becoming a royal lunar guard, which was also a way to work closely with the princesses.

The captain left the room leaving Shield to suit up for the night watch. He didn’t mind it honestly, it was nice to see the moon and stars every once and a while.

He put his helmet on last, adding the finishing touch on his royal guard armor. Shield was pretty high in the ranks, but still under leadership. He shook himself to get some blood flowing. His wings were sore as he stretched them. Time to go.

He trotted out of the guard quarters and into the hallway, and then slowed to a walk. He kept a close eye on things as usual. One could never be too careful at the castle, especially ever since the changeling incident. The way they manipulated love shook all of them to their cores. He shivered at the thought. They should have been more prepared. Protocol this and protocol that. It got painstaking fast, but they all knew that it was beneficial. Even Celestia herself got tired of it. However, they are now prepared for much more.

He rounded a corner and kept walking as his path lead outside. He was looking forward to see the moon. Nothing was happening in Equestria to his knowledge. It’s typically peaceful nowadays. He continued on, plotting outside. Looking up he saw the full moon shining upon the darkness of the night. He chuckled to himself as he admired it.

"Great job, princess."

He only could take a few seconds, unfortunately. So he continued on his patrol. His path led him outside of the library and on past the kitchen and into the main hall. There he looked at the stained glass windows of the elements of harmony and such. He smiled as he looked at them. “I wish I could have had more time to meet them.” He sighed to himself.

His ears flipped forward. Time stood still for a moment. There was a slight sound in front of him, outside the great hall. He silently moved forward stalking the sound. Shield waited until the last moment, and whipped around the corner with his hooves reaching out for his prey.

"OOF!" the fellow guard hit the ground rather harder than Shield had meant for him to. His ears went limp and grew red, "oh...er sorry..."

"Celestia, kid! You sure are quiet." the brown stallion got up.

"My bad... I heard you and took action."

"Lighten up a little," the guard laughed a bit, "it’s another typical, boring, and normal night.

Shield sighed, "I guess you’re right."

"Hmhm, see you then, I’ll be a bit louder with my hoof steps this time," he smiled at Shield.

Shield half-smiled back and continued on. That was embarrassing. Not the first time either. He was just so cautious all the time. He didn’t like it either but this job was important to him.

Something moving caught his eye over a stairwell. He looked up fast, and then scolded himself for being too cautious again. He trotted over to the railing of the balcony over the stairs. Looking down, he saw a pony, a female by the looks of it, who was looking around as she slipped out a back door of the castle. Shield narrowed his eyes. Nopony should be out this late, nonetheless from the castle. He used his wings to float down the stairs to save time as he slipped out the same door after her. He floated low to the ground and kept as silent as he could while trailing her. He followed some hoof prints to get her general direction.

While he was flying he took out a piece of paper from one of the pockets on his armor with his teeth and unfolded it. A quill started glowing and hovered over it as if awaiting its command.

"Tailing a suspicious pony leaving the castle. Take whole castle guard." The quill copied every word he spoke and hovered again when he was done. "Letter away" he spoke again and the quill slipped back into his pocket while the letter folded itself into a paper airplane and flew off back to the castle. The way the magic worked, it would find the closest guard awake and unfold itself in front of them. Very convenient for quick long distance messages.

He kept his trailing strong as her trail lead to town. Her hoof prints got closer together signaling she slowed down. He was close to a house, but he surveyed the area from a distance before moving closer. After flying around each corner, he spotted a silhouette near a window. There she was. It was one of the stewardesses from the castle, still in uniform looking through the window. He stayed back, observing what she was doing before moving in.

"I’m sorry..." she whispered and closed her eyes. She opened her mouth and a green aura floated into it.

Shield was confused. He kept watching. The aura eventually stopped as she closed her mouth. She coughed a little and shook herself. Shield backed away from the corner and hid as she started back towards the way she came. She was skittish as she galloped quietly away. Shield didn’t leave much leeway as he tailed her again. He kept silent, and waited until they were away from any houses when he sped up and planned her takedown.

With one swift motion, he kicked out his front hoof and effectively tripped her. The next motion was flipping her over and pushing her down to the ground in midair. He had practiced this many times back at the castle so it went smoothly. She skidded to a halt and Shield planted to hooves on either side of her head.

"Name yourself in order of the royal guard!" he spoke with authority.

"P-please don’t hurt me!" the mare trembled and held her hooves over her face.

"Name!" he kept strong.

"I-its Carefree!"

"What are you doing out so late and away from the castle?"

"...I was just walking around, getting some fresh air." she was shaking a little less now.

"The castle has open places and a lot of room, you didn’t have to leave."

"I..," she blubbered.

"I’m going to have to report you if you don’t speak up."

She whimpered, "Please no! I wasn’t doing anything wrong."

"That green stuff has me thinking otherwise."

Her eyes widened, "You saw?!"

"Quiet, I don’t want to use any more force than I have to. I saw everything you did, now tell me what exactly you did back there and why."

She looked away, "It’s not that easy to explain…"

"I have time."

She looked up at him, "I can’t...you won’t understand."

He stamped a hoof, "Tell me. That’s an order."

She flinched at the action. "Okay okay!" He stared down at her as her eyes grew a little wet. "Please, just don’t freak out...I can explain."

"I’m losing my patience."

She sighed sadly. Bit her lip and tensed up. Instantly green flames surged through her body, starting at her hind hooves. Shield backed off a little as it happened, and as he looked back, there lay a changeling in place of the pony he had just saw.

Taking action, he snapped forward with a hoof raised in the start of a stomp. His nostrils flared and his hoof flew towards its head. The changeling saw it coming and it dodged, rolling away from him. His hoof hit the ground hard where it had just been a moment ago.

The changeling changed back into the mare, "Please calm down!! I can explain!" tears were flowing down her face.

"Why should I trust a changeling?!" he snorted angrily back.

"Because I-"

"Because nothing! I’m taking you down and then to Celestia to get rid of you!"

"Please let me-"

"No! You changelings are dangerous and an enemy to Equestria!" he dug a hoof into the ground, ready to lunge.

"No...I just-" she had more tears.

"You have 3 seconds to surrender or I’ll take you do-"

"STOP!" the cry was full of anguish. Shield's eyes widened a little. The mare dropped to the ground. Tears flowed from her eyes. "Please...you don’t understand...I was left behind when the rest of the changelings were banished...I had to copy a pony I saw in a painting in the castle to stay safe..."

Shield spoke again "What were just doing then?"

"I have to eat on the only thing I know I can eat here...I’m just trying to survive!" she looked up into his eyes, pleadingly.

"Hmph. How do I know you’re not lying?" he stared her down.

She looked defeated, "I guess you don’t...my kind isn’t to be trusted anyway…"

"I need to take you in if anything changeling."

"Please don’t call me that…"

"I’ll call you what I want."

"My name is Chryla."

"Get up, changeling."

She looked at him again, anger in her gaze. "Look, I don’t want to hurt anyone! It wasn’t my choice to be in the invading force of us! The queen just decided who would! She only told us that the love here is what we would feed on! I got left behind and I’m just trying to survive!"

Shield softened for a moment.

She continued on, "I tried to be as quiet as possible when I had to eat! I only take enough to not feel starved! Ponies hardly notice the next day anyway!"

Shield saw the turmoil in her, "Well if you feel that way changeling, you can tell Celestia yourself."

"My. Name. Is. Chryla." she spoke through teeth.

"Fine. I'm still taking you to her."

"I’ll come quietly on one condition..."

He scoffed, "What’s that? I’m kind of calling the shots here."

"Get none of the other guards involved on our way...please." she looked back at him. He was slightly startled. He thought about it for a moment, it might be better if he didn’t anyway.

"Hmph, no promises chan...Chryla."

She hung her head a little, "Lead the way…What should I call you?"

"Sir." he responded as he walked closer to her.

"Okay…"

"Start walking, please." he was standing only a few hoofs away from her, "And no tricks. I have wings."

"I know."

They walked back towards the castle, in silence. He didn’t know if he could get to see the princess this late anyway, if anything the holding cells in the lower level would do.

The castle grounds were quiet and empty as they went back inside to the castle.

"Head to the princesses’ chambers."

"Yes...er...Sir." They climbed the steps to the top of the tower. A royal solider was guarding the rooms.

"What business do you two have here?" the guard huffed. Shield noticed him, and realized that he outranked this pony.

"I require an audience with one of the princesses immediately."

"Hmph, it’s way too late and I don’t think it’s that important that you-"

"Situation level 1, solider." Shield spoke over him.

Shocked a little, the guard realized who Shield was, "R-right away sir."

The guard knocked on the door softly. "Princess?"

Magic opened the door, "Yes?" the voice came from Celestia.

"Courageous Shield requests a level 1 audience with you, m'lady."

"Let him in."

Shield motioned for Chryla to go first. She hung her head and walked in. Shield closed the door behind them.

"Courageous Shield, as a level 1 this must be important. Yet you bring me Carefree arrested? What’s going on?"

"Your majesty, she is not who she seems." The princess tilted her head.

"Show her." Shield nudged Chryla with his wing.

The mare bit her lip, and then changed into her true form. Celestia's expression changed to angry and powerful. Magic surrounded the changeling and it was thrown across the room in a moment, crashing into a wall on the other side of the room.
Chryla changed back, coughing she spoke up, "You’re majesty, please let me explain…" she tried to stand but fell as soon as she tried.

"Explain what, that you should be long gone?" Celestia spoke with unprecedented authority. Shield gulped down some of the intimidation he felt, he only imagined what the changeling must have felt.

"Please m'lady…let me talk...please." tears flooded her eyes.

"Speak."

Chryla told the same story she told Shield. As the story went on, the princess softened. "The green light your officer saw there was only a tiny bit of love from a newlywed couple in town...I didn’t take much. I’m so weak from not eating that I’m not even a threat if I wanted to be..."

"I see..." the princess spoke again.

"I don’t know what else to feed on...The queen only told us that love would power us and so far that’s the only thing that has..."

The princess spoke with a bit of compassion as she lifted Chryla back over to Shield and herself, "Chryla, I’ve seen your work here in the castle and I appreciate the change you made to your lifestyle over your queens."

"Thank you, your majesty..."

"Shield."

He perked is ears forward and stood at attention, "Yes ma'am?"

"Level 0 order: take good care of the true identity of Carefree. No other pony but you, Luna, and I must know that she is a changeling. We will work here to find an alternate food source for her. Until then, goodnight."

Shield was flustered, "Y-yes ma'am."

"Thank you so much princess." the mare was now shedding tears of happiness.

"Anything for a loyal subject in need. I do hope your ties to your old ruler are dwindled."

"They are. I never really liked her."

"Then farewell, I will check on you periodically."

Shield and Chryla dipped their heads and started to the door.

"To feed now, however, report to me." Celestia called as they exited.

The guard outside was confused, Shield could see it. "What happened?"

"Level 0. Sorry." Shield replied.

The guard’s eyes widened, "I've never even heard of level 0. Have a good night sir."

"You too." Shield dipped his head again as he lead Chryla back down the steps.

They walked in silence for a while, and even up to her quarters. There they stood for a moment before shield broke the silence.

"So...I guess we’re friends now."

"Yeah..." she looked down.

Shield didn't know what to say, "I guess I owe you an apology as well." She looked up at him.

"I’m sorry for almost killing you back in the woods. It’s not my fault I thought to not trust your kind."

"It’s alright...its kinda our queen's fault anyway."

"Well…get some sleep and I'll talk to you tomorrow, okay?" Shield turned to leave.

"Wait..." He stopped. "You never told me your real name."

"Courageous Shield. Shield for short." he smiled a little.

"Thanks Shield. See you later." she slipped into her room as he left.

He walked along the hallway, heading back to his room. His shift was over and he needed to get the next guard up. It didn’t take long to get back 'home' and the next guard was already awake. Shield undressed himself and laid down to rest.

"Oi, Shield. I got your message. What happened?" the guard he tackled earlier yawned.

Shield chuckled a little, "Sorry, level 0. I can’t tell you."

The other guard's ears pointed forward, "No way. The princess trusted you with a level zip?"

"Yup."

"I’d say you’re lucky, but I don’t know what kind of order it was."

Shield laughed again, "No worries."

"G’night."

"Sleep well."

Shield closed his eyes after the short conversation and tried to sleep. A friend. He hadn't had one of those in a while. In fact, he only had one in his entire life, and that was a long time ago. But maybe this time will be different. Maybe it’ll actually be nice to have a new friend. Still, he had to be careful.

The Day Off

The sun beamed through the window, soft and warm in the room. Courageous Shield blinked awake to it. Stretching, he stood and looked outside. It was near noon. He’d never slept that long. He wasn’t allowed to. In a bit of a shock, he quickly dressed and trotted out into the main hall. No one seemed to be in the immediate vicinity.

“Somepony should have waked me up at ten!” he huffed inwardly and slowed his pace just a tad. His officer was going to be mad at him for sleeping in.

"Oh, Sir Shield!" the voice made him stop mid-stride. It was the guard from last night.

"Good mor-er... After noon solider." he corrected himself.

"Did you sleep well?"

"I did, but why didn’t the captain wake me?"

He shrugged, "Said something about a princess' order. He’s out on the grounds if you want to talk to him."

Shield dipped his head in respect, "Thanks." Princess' order?

Shield headed off to the nearest exit of the castle to the grounds. He was more curious than concerned of this 'order' of his. Especially if it let him sleep in. The captain was patrolling with a small group around the greens when Shield spotted him.

"Oi! Captain!" he called out.

"Ah, Shield. I was wondering when you would get up. You're not one to sleep in."

"Tell me about it," Shield stepped closer, "What’s going on?"

"The princess gave you today and tomorrow off from duty. No idea why, but orders are orders."

Shield nodded a bit slowly, "I’m as clueless as you, sir."

"Also, Shield, it seems you’ve been promoted."

Shield's ears perked up as he tilted his head slightly.

"Promoted to captain, Captain Shield."

He could hardly believe it. This was too good to be true. It couldn’t be real. "Thank you si- uh..."

"Call me Jade." his former captain smiled and saluted him briefly.

That’s right. His name was Jade, Jade Water. Shield had been calling him 'sir' so long that he almost forgot his real name. Shield saluted back, before turning back to the castle. “I gotta talk to the princess.” he thought as he plotted a course to the top of the castle. The doors at the top of the stairs held a guard as usual, but the guard simply saluted him and let him knock on the door without question.

"Please come in." it was Luna’s voice this time. Shield stepped in and closed the door behind him. Luna was lying down in the center of the room, resting from guarding the night.

"Thank you for this council, ma'am" he bowed.

"Of course Captain." He wasn’t use to that just yet. "What brings you here?"

"I was just inquiring about an order I got from Princess Celestia." Shield spoke with a bit of anxiousness. Talking to the princesses was never a stress free endeavor.

"Relax, I have this for you." Luna smiled and levitated a scroll over to him and into his armor pocket.

"This is from my sister," she continued.

"Ah, thank you again princess." he bowed.

"I hope you will take good care of our new friend, Shield."

So she knew already, "Y-yes ma'am." he saluted.

"Go enjoy your day, farewell."

He nodded and bowed, "Yes ma'am."

He found himself back on the main floor of the castle in no time at all. “I don’t even need to wear this today.” He said as he shifted in his armor. His next path led him back to his room, where he took of the armor. The note fell out if his pocket as he did so. “Oh, right.” Opening it he read:

'Dearest Captain Shield,

Congratulations on the promotion, I have a few things I would like you to do. First, enjoy two days to yourself and Chryla. You two need to know each other to be friends, right? Second, keep her and our secret to us. Nopony will understand her. We know that firsthoof. Third and finally, relax and get some sleep. There is something of great importance I need from both of you in a few days. Thank you and congratulations again. I know you will do Equestria well.
-Princess Celestia'

So it was true. Captain. He smiled genuinely. He put the note down and suited himself up with a small saddle bag meant for pegasi just in case he wanted to buy anything in town today. The letter put him in a good mood, but also made him confused. “What could she possibly need her and me for?”

"Oh! Shield!" he nearly ran into Chryla heading out of his room.

"Oh hi Carefree," it felt weird, that name.

"Why aren’t you in your armor?" she backed up to give him some space.

"Oh, I have the next few days off. Uh...princess' orders."

"Really? That’s odd, I do too." she tilted her head.

"Oh. Cool," he smiled to her, “I was planning on going into town would you like to er...come along?"

Her ears perked up. "S-sure! Could we stop at my room so I can get ready?"

"Not a problem." he gave another smile, "Lead the way."

She stared in the other direction and he followed. At first it was a bit awkward, the Shield tried to lighten the mood. "So actually I got promoted."

"Oh really?" she perked up.

"Yup. Captain Courageous Shield now."

"That’s cool! Congrats, sir." she giggled a little.

They got to her room on that, "I’ll be right out."

"Okay." he smiled yet again.

He stood at her doorway, shifting on his hooves. ‘What do I talk to her about?” She only took about three minutes, now only equipped with a saddle purse over her usual stewardess uniform.

"There we go," she beamed.

Shield laughed, "Great."

"This is actually the first 'day off' I’ve had in some time." she added, starting to walk out.

"Me too honestly." he sounded staggered, but only a little.

"Then let’s make it worthwhile, hm?" she grinned again.

"No doubt." he remembered the letter as soon as the words left his mouth.

"Any definite plans for what you want to do today?" They walked along towards the city after passing through the main gate.

"I was hoping to get to the jeweler to get my badge polished and maybe get some treats at the bakery. Anything you need?"

"Not particularly, I’ll just window shop if anything."

Shield nodded. "Okay."

There was a break in their conversation. They were a bit of the way to town and nopony seemed to be near them. "So...uh..." Shield started.

Yes?" she heard the nervousness in his voice.

"How exactly did you get stuck back here?" he spoke in a different tone, trying to keep it friendly.

"Sigh...I know you have a lot of questions for me. So I guess starting now won't hurt." she smiled a little bit less.

"When the banishing spell went out, I was in the castle halls. A lookout if you will, and I got slammed against a wall. Some of the changelings near me eventually got pushed out of nearby windows, but my leg got stuck on a light fixture on the wall."

Shield nodded, "Then what happened?"

"I knew that they were all gone, and I had to act fast. The painting near me had the pony now known as 'carefree' in it and I copied her, assuming nopony looked like her."

Shield listened well, "I see. Did anypony ever expect anything?"

She smirked a little, "Hmhm, well I’m a good changeling so no. Although it was pretty hard to learn how you're kind talked so fast."

"They treated my leg, and I acted in shock so nopony got suspicious about me not talking."

Shield nodded again, they were entering the city now, "That was smart."

"Thank you." she smiled, but there was more behind it as she looked back forward a bit slower.

"Everything okay?" he asked.

"We’ll talk about it later."

Her tone was unreadable to him, "okay..."

"Hey cheer up," she stuck her tongue out, "I just wanna relax today."

Shield got flustered for a moment, "R-right. My bad."

The town was busting as usual, unicorns, a few pegasi and earth ponies going all about their businesses in the city of Canterlot. Shield led the way to the jeweler and stepped inside after letting Chryla in first. She trotted in and started looking at the jewelry in a display case as shield handed his badge over to the clerk there.

"It will be ready in half an hour, sir." the clerk smiled.

"Thank you." he smiled back "Alright Carefree, let’s go."

She trotted to the door after him happily and stepped out into the street. They chatted about nothing important as they walked, getting to know another better.

"So where are you from Shield?"

"Cloudsdale, where most pegasi are born. I passed flight school and made it my goal to get to the guard."

"Cool. Did you have any friends?"

Shield smiled with a bittersweet feeling. "I did have one really good friend, but after flight school she moved to Manehatten and I haven’t seen her since."

"Oh that’s too bad..." her ears drooped.

"Hey no worries," shield smiled, "we promised that we'd see each other again."

Chryla smiled, "That’s why I admire you ponies."

"What do you mean?" shield's head tilted to one side.

"You’re kind thrives on friendship and happiness. Almost the exact opposite of mine. It’s a wonderful change."

Shield smiled again, "I’m glad our hospitality has been that good.” They walked to the market place and paced up and down the aisles of the outdoor bazaar.

"There it is!" shield grinned.

"There what is?" Chryla had to trot to keep up with him as he picked up his pace. The stand smelled wonderful, it bore so many different products that all looked delicious.

"This stand is my favorite, its really rare I get a chance to buy things here." Shield almost drooled openly.

"Wow…it all looks so good." Chryla stared at it all in wonder.

"Howdy!" an orange pony popped out from under the stand, "I just had to check my stocks. What can I do ya for?"

Shield's ears flicked, "Did you run this stand last time ma'am?"

"Last time? I’ve always run this here stand! Sweet apple acres is mah responsibility after all." the pony beamed.

"Oh!" Shield exclaimed.

"What is it Shield?" Chryla was just as confused as the orange pony.

"You’re Applejack. I remember you from the…er..."

"Eyup! That’s me!" the orange pony beamed, "Those changelings didn’t stand a chance." Shield felt Chryla's mood dampen. "Anyway, whatch'yall need?" the enthusiasm seeped out of her words.

"Hm let’s see..."

"Shield...how much do you usually get?" Chryla's eyebrow rose.

"16 apple fritters, 4 apple pies, 3 bushels of apples, and 20 apple cupcakes please." Shield looked up into space as he listed them off his mental list.

Both Chryla and Applejack were speechless. A-are ya sure sugarcube?" Applejack sheepishly grinned back at him.

"Jeez Shield..." Chryla didn’t have much else to say.

"Yeah. I need to catch up on my usual load." Shield looked like it was no big deal.

"I don’t even..." Chryla breathed.

"Okay then…er...that'll be 1600 bits." Applejack still was skeptical.

"Sure thing." Shield pulled a bag of golden coins out. It swelled outward and the seams couldn’t take any more.

"That should be 1700, at least that’s what I counted last time." Shield spoke after dropping the bag with a thud on the stands' top.

"Uh...alright sir." Applejack was still dumbfounded.

"Keep all of it," Shield smiled to her again.

"Heh, always love the nice customers. I’ll have your order in a jiffy, so you can go wondern' while ya'll wait." Applejack beamed.

"Alright! Thanks again!" Shield grinned back as he led Chryla away from the stand.

It was only a few steps until Chryla spoke out, "1600 bits worth of apple products?!"

"I guess I can get a bit excessive." Shield chuckled.

"Ya don’t say." Chryla laughed back. They laughed some more as they walked to another few stands. Some time passed and Shield told Chryla more about the apple stand.

"I love Sweet Apple Acres. It’s my favorite producer of apple products."

"How long have you supported them?" Chryla smiled.

"Since I was a colt. I’m going to go there someday. I want to see where it’s all made." Shield nodded with a determined look.

"Weirdo." Chryla laughed.

"Whatever." Shield stuck out his tongue.

Some time passed, and Shield went back for his order.

"Alright. You got all of it. Thanks again!" Applejack called to them as they walked away.

"Thank you, Applejack!" Chryla called for Shield because his mouth was full. He had his saddle bag full on both sides, another bag draped around his neck and carrying two more in his mouth. Chryla had to carry his badge when they got that back too. The walk home was quiet, needless to say.

"Are you sure you don’t want help?" Chryla sighed again. Shield shook his head. She just laughed a little.

The castle had little activity going on as they returned. Chryla lead him to the kitchen to store most of his stuff. "Hey Carefree?" he couldn’t use her real name out loud just yet.

"Yeah?" she tilted her head.

"Can you even eat anything...er…food-like at all?"

Her eyebrows raised, "I can, it just doesn’t do me anything."

"Can you taste it?"

“Yeah?"

Shield cut a pie in half. "Here, for accompanying me today."

"Oh you don’t have to Shield, really." she smiled.

"Come on, I have 1500 more bits worth. The least I can do is share." he grinned.

"Oh alright." she laughed again.

They ate the pie and discussed what their favorite tastes were and the best food they’ve ever eaten. They talked a good hour before Shield looked at the time.

"It’s getting pretty late. You should get some rest." Shield spoke after a brief silence.

As if on cue she yawned. "Yeah, you too."

"Take care." Shield walked out of the kitchen.

"You too Shield." she smiled and waved as he left.

It wasn’t long before Shield lay down to rest himself. It was a pretty long day. “I’m glad Chryla and I can get along so well.” he yawned himself and fell asleep only moments after closing his eyes.

Luna stepped into the room. "Sister. What do you have planned for the changeling?"

"I guess I haven’t shared that with you have I, sister?" Celestia smiled.

"I need an elite task force sister. In case something goes wrong in Equestria and I can’t fix it myself."

"What does this have to do with the changeling?" Luna’s eyes narrowed in question.

"She can impersonate anypony she sees. That is very useful. Shield can provide protection and force to the team when necessary." Celestia spoke as-a-matter-of-factly.

"Who else is on this team, sister?"

"The allies. Allies of Equestria."

The First Step

"Shield!!"

Chryla was slipping from his grasp. The enemy was approaching fast and shield couldn’t pull her up over the ravine and defend himself at the same time. His wing was damaged so he couldn’t fly her out. This was bad.

She slipped lower, "I’ll save you, j-just hang on!" shield yelled.

"Shield...they're coming...just let go." tears flooded her eyes.

"No!"

"Then I will...seeya Shield." tears dropped off her face as she closed her eyes in a sad smile. Her grip loosened to go limp. This made her slip faster.

"No! Chryla please hang on!"

Her hoof left his grasp.

Shield woke up with shock. He cried out as he sat up and looked around. His heart rate slowly calmed down. “Just a dream...” Hoofsteps drew his attention to the door; somepony was walking away from the guardroom. Shield stood up shakily, and hurried to the door just in time to see Princess Luna rounding the corner down the hall. “What is she doing down here..?” Shield sighed and walked back to into the guard room. Today he returned on duty, so he dressed into his royal armor for the part.

He stopped moving before he even reached the doorway. “But I’m a captain now…what do I do?”
Princess Celestia's letter flashed into his memory. Nodding to himself, he started to her room high above the castle floor.

"The princess was expecting you, captain." the guard bowed and let him through without any trouble. Shield stepped into the room, quietly and held his head high. He obviously was holding in his shakiness again, princesses were top authority and he had spoken to two of the most powerful very frequently as of late, that doesn’t happen often.

"Oh Shield, you’re here!" Princess Celestia stepped into the room.

"Your majesty." he bowed then saluted her.

"At ease captain." she chuckled.

“Not that easy to do ma'am.” he thought to himself.

"I’m glad you made it up here. I'll ask for Chryla a little later. I figured you'd have more questions anyway." she continued.

"Ah, yes princess. What...is it exactly that you need me-er, us for?" Shield tilted his head.

Celestia's tone changed, "Equestria is a massive territory. I really can't be everywhere at once. Even with magic. I called you and Chryla out to join an elite task force named 'Allies of Equestria.’ There are a few members already but their embassy missions were miniscule compared to what I need now."

Shield was baffled, "How long have you wanted me on the task force?"

"A while, but I never could just take you out of the guard for it. It's your life." she continued.

"Your majesty, I wouldn’t have minded. I’d do anything for the good of Equestria."

She smiled, "I know, but embassy missions aren’t your favorite."

“Got me there.” he thought.

"Shield, what sealed the deal was Chryla. After I saw how you handled the situation, I 're-tasked' the allies. I have bigger and better plans for them now."

"S-such as?" Shield spoke again.

"You’ll know as they happen."

“Alrighty then.” he thought.

"Chryla will do well with camouflage, and you speed and strength. The other allies will show what they are for soon."

"Do I get any names?" Shield questioned.

Celestia's smile resonated in the voice. "No worries Shield, you'll get to know them soon enough."

Frustrated, he dropped the subject, "By the way your majesty, thank you again for the promotion and holidays."

"Not a problem. I foresee that this isn’t the only time this will happen."

“What?” Shield thought as his eyes widened.

"Please fetch Chryla for me." she finished.

He stood at attention, "Yes ma'am."

"At ease captain."

Shield trotted to the stewardesses chambers. “I know she’s the princess but she could be more descriptive…” he sighed to himself. Chryla was tending to the formal dining room, according to another pony, so he headed there.

"Carefree?" he called out to the gigantic room.

Her head popped out from under the big table like a gopher, "Shield!" He couldn’t help but laugh a little as she made her way over to him. She was carrying a feather duster in her mouth and had some dust on the end of her nose.

"You missed a spot, Carefree." Shield blew out and puffed the dust away. Chryla sneezed and dropped the duster.

"Meanie!" she shoved him as he laughed again.

"Sorry, sorry!"

"Whatever," she smiled, "What’s up?"

"Celestia wants to see you." Shield’s tone dropped only a little.

Chryla nodded, "Okay, let’s go then."

"Welcome back." Celestia spoke again as they re-entered the princesses room.

"Good morning your highness." Chryla curtsied.

Shield dipped his head in a bow. Luna walked in as he finished, and there was a look in her eye that he couldn’t make out as she looked at him.

"It’s time for your first assignment." Celestia plotted to the dresser on the far side of the room.

"Assignment?" Chryla tilted her head.

"Shield will tell you on your way to the mission." Celestia levitated a scroll to Shield and into his armor pocket.

"Yes ma'am." Shield saluted her.

"Uh, yeah! Yes ma'am too!" Chryla mirrored the motion.

Celestia smiled, "Your uniforms are at carousel boutique in Ponyville. That will be all you need." Shield saluted again, Chryla did the best she could to mimic his form. "Go. I’ll expect you to see me after the mission."

"Sooo..." Chryla spoke after they were a ways from the castle.

"So," Shield looked up from the letter that Celestia gave him, "we’ve got to go to Cloudsdale to give another new member the news of the allies."

"Weird..." Chryla puffed air into one of her cheeks. Shield wasted no time telling her what the allies were as soon as they were out of earshot of the castle. She took it pretty well.

"This is a huge responsibility...I hope I can handle it." Chryla looked at her hooves.

"You’ll do great." Shield smiled.

"Thanks, you too." was that a blush she had? "So why Cloudsdale?" Chryla continued.

"Most likely a pegasus." he nodded to her as he put the note away in his saddle bag.

"Any idea who?"

"Nope."

They strode into Ponyville and to the boutique. Inside there were many beautiful dresses and such all laced in jewels.

"Whoa..." Chryla breathed out as she gandered around the room.

"I’ll find the pony in charge here, you can look around if you want." Shield smiled at her.

"Mmhm..." she hardly acknowledged him.

He chuckled and started off towards the front of the store. "Well hiya!!"

To say he jumped four flanks into the air was an understatement. "Gee…didn’t mean to scare you." the filly spoke again.

"It’s alright. Just a warning would have been nicer than a jump-scare." Shield let his heart rate fell again.

"My name is Sweetie Belle! My sister owns this place." the filly continued.

"That’s cool. Do you help her much?" Shield always felt he was alright with kids.

"Uh huh!" Sweetie Belle nodded, "but today I have a meeting!"

"Oh?" Shield smiled.

"See my flank?" it gleamed as white as her coat, "I’m going to my cutie mark crusader meeting today!"

"That sounds like lots of fun," Shield nudged her with his hoof, "Don’t have too much fun and I hope you find your cutie mark soon."

"Thanks mister...er..."

"Shield. Courageous Shield."

"Thanks mister Shield." she beamed as she whipped on a red cape and ran out. Shield looked up to what seemed to be the sales counter.

"-and she was wondering if you could come." a purple unicorn was talking to a white one.

"Why of course I’ll go! Pinky knows how to throw a party." the white one responded.

Shield cleared his throat to get their attention. "Yes? How may I help you?" the white one answered him.

"I’m here on an order pick up?" Shield stepped closer.

"Wait…have I seen you before?" the purple one spoke to him.

"Hmhm, I’m glad you at least remember what I look like, Twilight. I’m honored." Shield dipped his head.

"Oh! You’re Sir Courageous Shield! That’s right!" her eyes shone as she remembered.

"A royal guard?!?" the white one raised her voice a little.

"Oh no…Rarity it’s no big deal." Twilight said with false hope of calming her friend down.

"No big deal?! This is high ranking business we are talking about!!" Rarity trotted out from behind the counter and curtsied, "Welcome to the carousel boutique! I am honored to have a guard in my store."

"Hey it’s no problem! Really!" Shield felt a little flustered.

"But it is! Ah, no matter. I assume you’re picking up the order from Princess Celestia?"

"Yes I am."

"This way please!" Rarity started off. Shield followed but was closely followed by Twilight.

"Can I help you Ms. Sparkle?"

"Did you come alone?"

"Oh. Nope. Just a sec." Shield called out to the rest of the store. "Hey Carefree! Back here!"

"Coming!" she trotted to them. Twilights eyes narrowed.

"Uh…hi, I’m Carefree. I’ve tended to you a few times while you met with the princesses."

"Hi...outside of that have we met before?" Twilight looked her over more. Shield became a little uncomfortable.

"N-not to my knowledge." Chryla continued.

"Hey! I said follow me!" Rarity poked her head out from a room.

"Let’s not keep her waiting, hm?" Shield tried to lighten the tension that Twilight had.

"Right. Sorry Carefree." Twilight apologized.

"Not a problem, Twilight."

They walked to the room Rarity was in. She had two black uniforms on model ponies. They were equipped with many pockets and seemed to have built in scarves that were meant to cover the face. The one meant for Shield had holes in the back for his wings.

"Why in Equestria would Celestia need these?" Twilight tilted her head.

"Uh..." Shield didn’t know what to say.

"You could ask her in a letter Twilight, we don’t know either." Carefree spoke for him. Chryla's eyes darted to Rarity for a moment.

"Alright…she never told me about this… "Twilight's skeptical feeling could almost be seen around the air.

Rarity cleared her throat, "W-well they must be important. Celestia paid a pretty penny for these. I offered to do it for free because it was a royal proposal. She denied me though and paid full price…"

"What are they made of?" Shield spoke.

"Special anti-soak and wind-breaking fabric." Rarity 'swooshed' her mane, "I just made them look good is all."

"So water and windproof?" Chryla asked.

"Yes dear! Also, I designed them for very wide ranges of mobility for any which way the wearer needs to go." Rarity finished.

"Wow... Whoever gets these is lucky." Chryla smiled.

"Yeah they are." Twilight chimed in. "well I’m going to go. Spike is probably bored. See you later Rarity! Bye Carefree and Sir Shield!" They all waved as she trotted out. Rarity levitated the suits into bags.

"There you go dearies, and please do come again!" Rarity bowed once more.

"Definitely!" both Chryla and Shield called as they left the boutique.

They trotted a few steps away before Chryla spoke,"They were nice."

"I agree, but Twilight seemed to be onto something…she’s bright." Shield sighed.

"Hey no worries. I’m sure Celestia will say something." Shield nodded. "So...to Cloudsdale?" Chryla questioned.

"To Cloudsdale."

The Shadow

"Shield...we could have taken a blimp or something…?"

*Flap.* *Flap.* *Flap.*

"Shield? I know you're strong, but do you have any idea how heavy I am carrying all this stuff…?" Chryla sighed.

"It’s." *flap.*

"All." *flap.*

"Good." *flap.*

She sighed as Shield vigorously flapped upwards to the cloudy city. He huffed and puffed his way up past the cloud cover. The City of Cloudsdale shone a bright white as they reached the gate of the city. Pegasi floated past them in each directions, in and out of the city. Shield flapped his way to the gate at a slow pace.

"You are NOT carrying me the whole time we're here." Chryla scolded.

"I know that. There is a guy here that has things for earth pony visitors." *Flap.* *Flap.*

"Where exactly is his place?"

"Just a little ways into town." Shield smiled.

Chryla sighed and looked forward as they flapped along.

"Hey, you look like you could use some help!" a voice from above chimed.

Shield looked up, "Actually we're almost to our destination, but thanks!"

"Aww, quit being so modest!" the voice laughed a little. Just then a rainbow streak zipped past Chryla. She yipped out in suprise, then looked around.

"Shield, something grabbed our stuff!"

"No worries I got it." a cyan colored pegasus with the rainbow in her mane hovered in front of them, flying on her back carrying everything that Chryla just was.

"Wow. That was fast." Shield wasn't strained anymore. He carried Chryla with ease closer to the visitor's center.

"Yup! I'm the fastest flyer in Equestria! Name's Rainbow Dash, I saw you guys fly up here and noticed your royal armor."

"Well we appreciate your help Miss Dash.'" Chryla smiled.

"Eh, no big deal. But why are you and your military bud here?" she questioned.

"Were on a trip to find a pegasus that lives here. Celestia wanted us to escort them back to Canterlot." Shield explained.

"Oh I see, a search and rescue mission?!" Dash did a little loop.

"Uh...what? That's not what he said." Chryla tilted her head.

"I know you guys have to keep your ACTUAL mission secret." Dash grinned.

"This...IS our actual mission." Chryla raised an eyebrow.

"Suuuurreee." Dash laughed.

She landed on the mat outside the door to the visitors center and opened the door, "You'll be able to stand in here" Shield set her down, and landed himself. He cringed a little as he tucked his wings in.

"I told you I was heavy." Chryla turned her nose up a little.

"You hush." Shield punched her shoulder lightly.

"I don't know if its the same as the last time you've been here, but the earth pony boots are over there." Dash pointed to as deck opposite of them.

"Thanks, I'll grab a pair real quick." Shield trotted off.

There was a few moments of silence between Dash and Chryla.

"So...uh..." Chryla started, "Thanks for the help again."

"Sheesh, I already said no problem. Its the least I can do, considering you guys have a secret mission to do." Dash nudged her.

"We don't..." Chryla started.

"Hey..." Dash hovered in front of her face, looking into her eyes.

Chryla's eyes grew a little, "Wh-what?"

Dash squinted and studied Chryla's eyes. Chryla's heart rate rose a little. "She can't tell just by looking at me can she?" the nervous changeling thought.

Moments ticked by.

"You have pretty eyes...but I think I've seen that color before,...I just can't remember where." Dash backed off.

"Oh. Thanks." Chryla breathed a silent gasp of relief.

"Here you go, Carefree." Shield was back, carrying four boots by the laces. They had wings painted on them, and a magical blue aura surrounded them. Shield put them on the floor, and Chryla stepped into them. They magically tightened to a good size as Chryla trotted in place with them on. "They carry a magic charge that will allow you to walk on the clouds. They run out after a while, so let me know if you start to sink a little." Shield explained.

"Yeah, cuz you'll fall through otherwise." Dash commented.

Chryla gulped, "I'll be sure to tell you."

They left the visitors center, and it took Chryla a few seconds to get used to the plush of the clouds as they walked along. "Agh..this is scary." she frowned.

"Don't worry, if you fall, me or your studly 'guard' will rescue you. I'll trail behind to give him a chance to scoop you up first though." Dash said a matter-of-factually.

Shield's face got a little red, "Oh...we...uh. Thanks."

"Wait, are you two not a thing? Coulda' fooled me." she shrugged.

Chryla and Shield blushed, but it was Chryla who spoke this time. "We are just co-workers, and happen to be friends too." she said as professionally as she could.

"Right. Co-agents. Sorry." Dash grinned coyly.

"We aren't-"

"Miss Dash," Shield cut Chryla off, "We appreciate your enthusiasm, but we are really just here to escort somepony to Canterlot."

"Oh. Okay. That's cool I guess. Hope you find your guy." Dash sighed a little, "Later." a smile flashed before she bolted off.

Chryla puffed out her cheeks, "Hmph. She's nosy..."

Shield smiled, "Fun though, the pony were looking for lives up this street." he pointed ahead.

They walked casually along, in a semi-awkward silence. Dash's comment flustered Shield, but he didn't see a reason it should. They met less than a month ago, and shes a completely different species anyway.

Chryla spoke up, "So, what's this pony's name?"

Shield smiled, "Shadow Luxurious, or just Shadow for short."

"Do you know her?"

"Shes' my best friend, hopefully still."

"Oh! Is she the friend you mentioned earlier? And what do you mean hopefully?" Chryla tilted her head.

"Yeah, she's the one, but I haven't seen her since I was a young colt." Shield sighed, "She could be completely different..."

"I can't say anything to reassure you...but I hope she's just as you remember..." Chryla smiled a little sympathetically.

"Hey, you know more than you give yourself credit. You had friends right?"

Chryla looked down, "Yeah, I guess..."

Shield tightened his lips. "Shit...I brought up a bad subject." he thought to himself. "Oh, I'm sorry if I-" he started.

"Just...I don't want to talk about it right now." Chryla cut him off.

Shield's ears drooped and they kept walking in silence.

Their path lead them to a sketchy part of town, like someplace you wouldn't want to be in at night. But luckily, there was still sunlight to light there way, although the light didn't show much. There were only a few old homes and ponies rarely walked past them on their way.

Suddenly, something whipped behind them, but they turned and saw nothing. They continued to walk.

"Are you sure this is the right place? Chryla asked, a little nervous.

"Pretty sure." Shield answered.

"How do we know where to look?" she looked around. Shield didn't answer.

Singing broke this new silence, muffled by the building's walls that was just ahead.

"Right there." Shield smiled, pointing towards the building.

Chryla knocked on the door, the song stopped in response. The door creaked ajar, but no where near open.

"Yes? Who's there?" the pony inside quietly quizzed.

"Ahem," Shield started, " 'Shield, I'll be the princess of the night again, you can be the guard!' " Shield mocked a mare's voice.

The door flew open, "Shield!!" a sky blue pegasus flew out of her house and tackled Shield into a hug. She had a messy red and black mane and tail with a yellow-gold, four pointed star for a cutie mark. She also had gold rings on each of her hooves. "It's been so long! How have you been? Is that royal armor? Why are you here? How did you find me?!" words flew out of her mouth at the speed of a sonic rainboom.

"Easy Shadow!" Shield pulled out of the hug, "It has been too long, but please one question at a time."

"Okay okay...uh...why are you here?" she shook herself.

"Celestia sent us to get you for a new...project she's starting." Shield smiled.

"Oh..."

"You don't sound too excited."

"I'm..." she shook her head again, "never mind, so I take it you are a royal guard now?" her voice got happy again.

"Yeah...I'm a captain now."

"Whoa, you're a captain!? That's awesome!"

"Yes it is." Shield looked back at Chryla, "This is one of the members of the new project, my new friend Carefree."

Chryla nodded and smiled, "Nice to meet you."

Shadow did the same, "Likewise."

"I'd love to catch up, but we can do that on the way to Canterlot." Shield smiled with a little false hope.

"Shield...I don't know if I should go." Shadow looked down at her rings.

"Well, why not?"

"I have no idea what this project is, or what it's for. And I'm not exactly one for Canterlot..." she looked back up at Shield.

"Bah, you know me. I haven't explained everything yet." Shield lightened the air.

"Oh, well alrighty then. Come on in." Shadow lead them inside her house. Chryla started to follow, but something caught her eye around the corner of the house. She did a double-take, but it was gone. She slowly walked back in while still looking around. Shadow started to serve iced tea.

Shield explained everything over his tea, how Celestia appointed him the lead of the recruitment.

"I see...So a task force? Like the Power Ponies?" Shadow sipped her tea.

"You still subscribe to the Double P's?" Shield grinned.

"Haven't missed an issue." Shadow stated.

Shield grinned. "Good, me neither."

"Although, I am a little interested in those...blue hedgehog comics too."

"Power Ponies?" Chryla spoke.

"Comic book super heroes. Remind me to show you in Canterlot." Shield smiled.

"So, what's your place on the team Carefree?" Shadow looked at her.

Chryla looked at Shield with wide eyes. Shield nodded.

"I'm just Shield's assistant right now...but I'm not actually a pony." her voice quivered, "Please stay calm."

Shadow raised an eyebrow and frowned a tad. Chryla changed out of her disguise, and Shadow's eyes widened. She looked at Shield, then to Chryla, then back at Shield, but this suprise didn't last long. "Never thought I'd see you team up with one of them Shield, but I've seen weirder shit in the past. Welcome to Equestria as..an ally this time." she bowed.

"So, you're not-"

The shattering window startled all of them, Chryla quickly changing back as something hit her hard. Shield rolled backward and flailed his wings out, ready to spring.

"You lied to me changeling!" Rainbow Dash had Chryla pinned to the floor.

"Agh..." Chryla held her chest with a front hoof and wide eyes. Shield sprung towards the cyan daredevil, aiming to get her a safe distance away from Chryla. Dash saw it coming and ducked, readying her hind legs for a buck that would probably break bone. Shield sailed right into the kick's effective zone, and Dash lashed out.

"Gotchaaah?" Dash's tensity turned to confusion when Shield maneuvered his hooves around her hind legs.
There was a hearty thud, followed by a slightly smaller one when dash finally hit the floor a couple feet away.

"Are you alright Chryla?" Shield worriedly spoke near her face.

"We should probably get to Canterlot..." Chryla coughed.

Shield frowned, and worry decided to sneak into his mind.

"Rainbow Dash." Shadow walked towards the cyan pony now shakily standing up.

"What?" she spat.

"You broke my window."

"She's a changeling!"

"He's a royal guard."

"What if he's a rogue?"

"Trust me, he's not." Shadow sighed.

"I want an explanation!" Dash's nostrils flared, with a hoof stamped into the floor.

"Miss Dash, we don't have time to explain." Shield huffed.

"You better find time!" Dash readied herself for another pounce.

Chryla coughed again, a deep and chest rattling cough.

"Fine! We are agents, sent by Celestia! Were on a task force meant to bring peace." Shield growled.

"I don't believe you!"

"Said the pony who was at our necks about the same exact thing earlier!" Shield answered. Dash leapt after them again.

This time, Shadow took her down from the side. "Dash! Shield is a long time friend of mine, I trust him!" She snarled.

"But...changeling?!" Dash squirmed under Shadow.

"Shield, once I deal with Dash here, I'll meet up with you in Canterlot."

"Fair enough," Shield turned to Chryla, "You doing alright...?"

"Canterlot...please..." Chryla trembled with the words.

Shield lifted her gently off the ground with his front legs, and flapped his way out of Shadow's place.

"The changling is getting away!" Dash struggled more.

"Dash. Chill."

*Flap.* *Flap.* *Flap.*

*Cough.* Chryla spat out some blood.

"She hit you hard, hmm?" Chryla hardly payed attention to where she was, and was jolted back to reality when shield spoke.
She could only grunt in response. Shield's grip held her tight as they flew towards Canterlot. The pain in her chest was clouding her thoughts.

"He's really warm...and strong..." was all she could think about.

The flight only lasted a tad bit longer, and was greeted by royal guard staff when he landed in front of the castle.

"Sir Shield!"

"I need a medic, solider!"

"Right away, sir." The blue unicorn whistled, and a stretcher was produced a few moments later.

"We'll get her to the infirmary right away."

"She'll be fine, Princess, she just needs some rest." The medic pony removed his mask to speak to Luna.

"Very good, doctor. Remember, speak to no one."

"As you wish." The medic bowed and returned to his busywork.

Shield fidgeted.

"Relax captain. She got the wind knocked out of her and bit her tongue.” Luna turned to walk off.

“Right..sorry.” Shield shook himself.

“I’d be more worried about the rainbow one telling Twilight Sparkle.”

"Oh shit!" Shield grimaced.

“I can already say that the rainbow one is on her way to Twilight as we speak.” Luna started walking away, “Celestia and I will deal with the matter, but we do want you to be in attendance too.”

Shield bowed, “Yes, Your Highness.”

Shield stood back up when Luna was gone. "I really hope this hasn't blown our whole operation. We still don’t know what our real purpose is. The anticipation is the worst." Shield thought deeply. "We’ll just have to wait until Twilight gets here."

The Meeting

With fluttering eyes, Chryla woke. Her bruised chest ached as she rolled to get more comfortable on the infirmary bed. The room was dark and cool, which she was not opposed to. Yawning, she noticed an open window and the moonlight shining on the floor.

"How long have I been out...?" she whispered.

The rest of the infirmary was empty, save for the vacant beds and nightstands. After sitting up and looking at her dark black body, her chest tightened. Usually she casts a long term 'change' before going to sleep, seeing as staying 'CareFree' while conscience was effortless but staying that way without a long term 'change' unconsciously was near impossible. She didn't even think of casting while she was being flown back to Canterlot. She immediately changed back to 'Carefree'. Her mind started to run, worrying over who saw her in her true form.

The main door to the infirmary clacked open and swung just enough to let Celestia in. Her hooves clacked along the floor, making her way over to Chryla.

"How are you feeling Chryla?" Celesta stood over her bed.

"Did...I blow the whole operation?" Chryla's voice shivered in the presence of the alicorn.

"No, I can always do some cover up to anyone who happened to see. However, for the most part no one but the few medical staff that fixed you up saw your true form." Celestia's tone was soft and reassuring.

"Thank goodness." Chryla breathed out, "What about Rainbow Dash?"

"I've called the Element of Harmony wielders to a meeting here tomorrow, though I'm sure Rainbow went straight to Twilight and demanded her to talk to me." Celestia sighed, "Always the troublesome one, that Dash."

"Well, are Shield, myself, and/or Shadow going to said meeting?" Chryla asked.

"All three of you are invited to the meeting. Shield has already replied saying he will attend, but I have not heard from Miss Luxurious yet. You may attend if you feel ready to leave the infirmary." Chryla nodded. "I'll leave you to rest," Celestia turned to leave.

"I'll be ready tomorrow." Chryla replied.

"Great." A small smile crossed Celestia's face as she started walking. She was just at the door when Chryla mustered the courage to speak again.

"I'm sorry for deceiving you for the time before you 'knew' me." Celestia stopped, but didn't turn to face her. "I was just trying to survive...and I promise to make it up to you, princess." Chryla looked down at the bed sheets as she spoke.

It was a few seconds before Celestia responded. "I believe you. Remember it is always harder to gain trust than lose it." Chryla swallowed, reminded of what her past queen had done."Goodnight Chryla." Celestia closed the door behind her. It took moments to fall back asleep.

The next day, Chryla was the last to enter the throne room where the meeting was held, but she was still a little timid as she did so. Being in the presence of all six of the element bearers as a changeling was not the easiest thing to do, at least not after that certain event. The looks on each of their faces didn't help boost her confidence either, especially the look from Rainbow Dash, who was still sore from a couple days ago. Both Shadow and Shield were there too, which made Chryla a little more comfortable.

"Ah, Carefree. Care to join us?" Celestia welcomed her. She slowly approached the round table still staring at the mane six, who were in a little shock of her appearance. She made her way to a seat next to Shield as Celestia began to speak. "Now then, I would like to start this meeting off with welcoming our new friend, Chryla, to Equestria." She gestured Chryla. "Although she may have lived behind a facade ever since the wedding, she has done well as a care taker here in the castle and as a loyal citizen to Equestria. And even after revealing her true form to Courageous Shield and to me and my sister."

"Hmm...Ah don't know 'bout this..." Applejack narrowed her eyes at Chryla. "Whadda you think, Twi?"

"Well, if Celestia says it's alright for Chryla to live in Equestria, I can't really argue with that. I wouldn't put my trust on her, but I put all of my trust on Celestia." Twilight answered as she looked at Chryla, who felt comfortable enough to speak.

"I have pledged allegiance to the Land of Equestria. It is now my home." Chryla's voice was unwavering as she stood in front of the 6 element holders and the sister princesses.

"I still don't trust her!" Dash flared her nostrils.

"Rainbow! You're already on thin ice, stop while you're ahead!" Twilight snorted back at her.

"I really like her! Lets throw a 'Sorry for Dashie's Intolerance' party!" Pinkie bounded in place.

"Now is not the time Pinkie." Rarity face-hoofed.

"Ah'm with Twi on this one Rainbow, Princess Celestia knows what she's doing." Applejack stated.

"Hmph! Fine...but I still don't get why they're here." Rainbow gestured Shield and Shadow.

"They are here for the second subject of matter we must discuss." Luna started. "Ever since the reveal of Chryla, my sister and I have planned on bringing a task force back together, which involves Chryla, Courageous Shield, Shadow luxurious, and a few more members."

"A task force?" Twilight questioned.

"OOOH! A secret spy thingy! I love being a spy! It's so much fun!" Pinkie bounced.

"Ah! That's what my beautiful suits are for!" Rarity responded.

"Why the hay do we need a task force!? We've been doing just fine with the elements!" Rainbow retorted.

"There is a difference between each group. The elements are to be used as our defense against the worst that is to come to Equestria, such as Discord and Sombra. The task force, however, is to keep the small evil-doers in tact and to help me and the elements protect Equestria." Celestia stated.

Suddenly, questions started to fill the room. Mostly coming from Twilight and her friends. Celestia and Luna both tried to explain everything the best they could without trying to create chaos in the room.

As the meeting progressed, the Elements were filled in to about the knowledge level that Shield and Chryla were. Meanwhile, Chryla wasn't looking to satisfied, and Shield started to notice.

"You doing okay?" He asked.

"I'm fine, but I'm not sure if they are." She pointed to the arguing crowd.

"Ah, don't worry, they'll be done soon." Shadow remarked.

"How do you know?"

"They're the elements of harmony, and they're the royal princesses. If they can't calm down, then who can?"

"Well...yeah, I guess that's true. But I'm also worried about what's gonna happen to us...especially me."

"I don't know, Chryla. Celestia has a way with keeping things secret." said Shield.

"Or she really has no idea." Shadow thought.

"But I'm sure that we'll be alright in the end. Besides, you made it this far. The only way to from here is up." Shield comforted.

"...I guess." Chryla responded, still not sure.

Later, as Shadow said, the ruckus died down. They took it all well (save for Dash, who was a bit slower to accept it) and before too long, the meeting was almost over.

"Are we all in agreement?" Luna asked.

"Certainly." Rarity answered first.

"Ueyup. Sounds good ta me." Applejack said.

"Yep! Me too!" Pinkie announced.

"Umm...yes." Fluttershy whispered.

"......Fine." Rainbow retorted.

"I just wish you would have told at least me about this task force princess, instead of this 'crash-landing' of info
right in one place." Twilight turned to Celestia.

"I apologize Twilight, I was in the works to send you a letter or two about it. More paperwork than I expected landed in my hooves before I could, however." Shadow smiled and rolled her eyes at that.

Once the meeting ended, the princesses left first, going back to royal duties. Shield and Chryla were about to leave when a soft voice stopped Chryla.

"Um...excuse me...Miss Carefree?" Fluttershy timidly stepped towards Chryla.

"Yes. Fluttershy, right?" Chryla turned back to face her.

"Could you...tell me a bit about yourself? I like to know all I can about every kind of creature, and the last group of changelings were meanies...if its not a problem..." the yellow pegasus kneaded her hooves against the stone floor of the castle throne room.

"Oh, uh...of course." Chryla genuinely smiled, "I'll answer all I can."

The yellow pegasus perked up, "Oh gosh! Thank you!"

"Ah need to get back to the farm, though ah'd love to hear ya stories." Applejack dipped her hat as she started home. Dash followed her without a word.

"I planned some shopping today since I was in Canterlot, but I'll ask Fluttershy about you later. Nice meeting you CareFree." Rarity waved goodbye.

"I'll stay." Twilight stepped closer.

"Me too! Me too!" Pinkie bounded.

"Maybe we should go to a bit more...private area to talk." Chryla fidgeted.

"Of course!" Fluttershy exclaimed, "Sorry! We should go to the courtyard to talk."

"No need to apologize." Chryla chuckled a tad.

"Need me to tag along?" Shield spoke in the slight break of the conversation.

"Need? No. I'd like for you to." Chryla grinned.

Shield stuck his tongue out at her as they started off to the courtyard as Shadow started to follow.

The lobby of the concert hall was abuzz with all sorts of ponies from Manehatten. Mostly from the upper class, but some 'regular' ponies were also chatting along.

The great Octavia was playing her favorite concerto tonight, and she had been practicing relentlessly for weeks. Vinyl would know, living with her and all.

Vinyl loved going to Octavia's concerts. It was 180 degrees from her own line of music, but just as passionate, if not more. "One last water break before the show." Vinyl thought as she made her way to the restrooms of the concert hall. She trotted carefully down the empty corridor. People were lining up to get in now, so the restrooms and drinking fountains were Vinyl's for the taking. The crisp water ran down her throat. She closed her eyes to drink. In the middle of swallowing, two hooves pulled her abruptly away from the fountain and to the other wall of the corridor.

"-the buck?!" Vinyl coughed as the unsuspected shove backwards made her choke on the water. She looked up to see two buff stallions in suit coats with dark sunglasses towering over her.

"Sorry to abruptly disturb you like this, but I'd like to ask a favor of you." A white haired red stallion stepped between the other two. He also was wearing a suit, but no glasses.

"Uh...who do you think you are? You can't just do this to ponies and ask something of them. Its shady and rude." Vinyl huffed angrily.

"Who I am is unimportant." The stallion waved his hoof in the air as if wafting the subject away. "I'm not here to be polite, furthermore."

"What the buck do you want?" Vinyl put on her tough face.

"I want you," The stallion (whom Vinyl just realized was a unicorn) lifted a briefcase into Vinyls view, "to deliver this to a pony for me."

"Pfft, yeah right." Vinyl rolled her eyes.

"So brave in front of total strangers!" The stallion giggled, "Let me fill you in on what's inside this briefcase; enough magic potential energy to make this whole concert hall into a sizable crater." Vinyl's eyes narrowed, showing skepticism. "Don't believe me? Let's test that faith," The Red unicorn's horn hummed a distinct note and one of the three clips on the case popped open.

"The only one powerful enough to have that kind of magic is a princess." Vinyl huffed.

"Oh really? I'll tell you one last time: Deliver this case to the pony to your right in the theater or I'll open it and blow this place sky high." The red unicorn's glare was menacing.

"I...I don't believe you." Vinyl's resolve was weakening, due to his tone and the guards cracking their necks.

His horn illuminated, "Really...? I thought you cared more about some particular somepony..." Vinyl's eyes widened. "That's right. Your precious 'Tavi'. We know all about you two Miss Scratch." His tongue became a dagger as he spoke quietly, "Where you live...where you work..." He stepped closer, "Where you sleep." The second clip opened on the case.

"W-wait!! I'll do it, just don't hurt me...or Octavia." Vinyl had no choice. If he didn't seem threatening before he sure as buck did now.

"Splendid!" The red unicorn smiled like a snake, and dropped the case in front of her, "Oh, don't try closing the clips either, they are enchanted to only be opened by me and my partners." Vinyl nodded, fearful. "Enjoy the show!" The unicorn stepped down the hall, "Better hurry, Vinyl." The thugs left with the menacing unicorn, leaving Vinyl by herself.

"Buck...what have I gotten into..?" She timidly picked up the deceptively heavy case and ran to the theater.

The ushers directed her to her seat, allowing Vinyl to see her right neighbor for the night. A pegasus was sitting comfortably in his seat, his grey wings tucked into his sides. His unnaturally scraggly dark blue mane covered his face. Vinyl slowly sat down and placed the briefcase next to him.

"Ah...zank you, Mizz Scratch." the Pegasus's face was still masked by his mane.

"Will you and your thugs leave me alone now?" Vinyl growled angrily.

"Zat depends on a few sings." His accent was thick and foreign to Vinyl.

"What...?"

"Vun, you speak of zis to no one. Not even your precious 'Tavi'." Vinyl shivered at his words, "If ve find out you have, ve vill have you killed. In front of 'Tavi'" Vinyl's ears dropped. "Two..." He turned his head to face her fully. Her breath was sapped from her lungs, the whole right side of his face was burned and scarred along with the grotesque hole of an eye socket. His vile smile was broken and many of his teeth were shattered. Vinyl couldn't look away, His words were burned into her mind as the theater lights dimmed. "Never forget my face."